The main point about the new revisions in the Care Act is that there is a greater new emphasis on well being: The act is built upon a new statutory principle of individual well-being - physical, mental and emotional - of both the person being cared for and the carer.
This means that the role of Activity Coordinator is pivotal, hence making a welcome shake up in the care system within the private sector since if being responsible for the care provision of individual's they need to ensure that person centered engaging activities are very much part of the care package.
I am so glad about this as all too often I see that AC's are not given the regard they should be given and the role often undervalued.
Now that it is as clear as day care providers within care settings are even more accountable and must evidence activity provision.
Within the Care Act two main areas that relate directly to your role as an AC are-
Emphasis on well being- Engaging activities has been proved to impact on mind, body and soul of the residents as well as improving job satisfaction of staff and moral within care home settings.
A focus on prevention: Local authorities (and their partners in health, housing, welfare and employment services) must now take steps to prevent, reduce or delay the need for care and support for all local people. Regular exercise and meaningful activities have been shown to have powerful preventative impact on a range of physical and mental health issues - and consequently on hospital admissions and GP appointments.
I often challenge AC's to think outside the box and would encourage you to work with local agencies and charities and get them involved in what you do, by doing this is creates community spirit and lets people know what your home or organisation does and is also great PR for your home. Have open days, community based events etc. Get involved in making your local town dementia friendly, etc .
For more reading of the Care Act in detail read it here- http://www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Document-library/Standards/Care-Act/learning-and-development/introduction-and-overview/care-act-overview-fact-sheet.pdf
Until next time keep shinning brightly and remember I believe in you!
Love,
Ann Marie x
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