Jayne speaks to Baroness Dean about Care Homes

Following the opening of the new Abbeyfield offices in Newport, it was a pleasure to speak with Baroness Brenda Dean. Baroness Dean is the President of the Abbeyfield Association and she has made the effort to visit Abbeyfield facilities all over the UK.

A care home is only as good as it’s staff.  As as society we put too little value on those caring for our older people.  This must change. I believe that the way we care for our older citizens is a mark of a civilized society.  I raised with Baroness Dean the challenges that face those working in the care sector, such as recruitment, training and pay and conditions.

It’s vital that we provide better care for older people; achieving compassionate, respectful and dignified care. There are some great examples within Newport and it’s important that best practice is used to ensure that people who go into homes feel they are at home rather than in an institution.  We have a responsibility to ensure that good practice is standard practice.