How to Flourish And Shine in 2017!

So here we are again at the start of a brand New Year. We all fall into the trap of wanting to make change happen, we set our intention and then we don't follow through or people sabotage our good intentions by either poking holes in them, dream stealing them or we give up before we start.

So here is my advice for you, this year I want you to make sure you factor you in the world of the AC bubble.
Make sure as you plan for the year that you have included enough time for you to plan, create and activate your activity sessions well.



Plan
Plan what you want to change, look objectively to see what you can do differently. See if there are other things you can now try with your residents that was on the back burner before, don't be so  dismissive at least try stuff.
Take into account all the traditional themes and customs that the generation of people you work with would of celebrated when they were younger. Remember when you are planning don't be blindsided by what you want but it's what your residents want.
I have created some useful tools for AC's I have a year wall planner available which lists all the main events of the year and international dates, so that's a great tool for you to use. See below how to purchase the set from ebay. or email me at lovejoycentre@gmail.com .
Think about what you want to achieve  for your residents as a group for example, you should want to increase their self esteem, promote their independence, etc. So when you plan don't just think it's about booking this and that look at the whole picture from a person centered viewpoint.

Create AC's are naturally creative and very resourceful beings, it's a case of having to be at times. When you create your activity schedule include your residents, get their input, discuss ideas with them, include them in planning sessions . You would be so surprised at what they can contribute. By doing this as good practice exercise you will also be fulfilling a lot of what CQC look for when they inspect homes. So make sure you document these meeting and planning sessions.

It ticks so many boxes on so many levels for you and your residents. Once again try something, if it is not theasible be creative and make it feasible. Here is a lovely story I heard of what one home's AC did for her resident. Joan was going to turn 100 years old and her birthday wish was she wanted to have a ride in a hot air balloon and travel over her beloved Cardiff.

So This AC created a basket similar to a hot air balloon one, that she put around Joan's wheel chair then she created a huge balloon from the wall and on  Joan's birthday she put her into the balloon creation and at the same time from a projector showed Cardiff  as if you were looking at it from a hot air balloon's view. There was not a dry eye in the house and Joan was delighted and felt fulfilled.

It is just thinking outside the box. Give it a try.

Now you have planned, created it is time to activate. Get your well planned ideas into fruition.

I know a lot of AC's have to raise funds for their residents so think of ways that you can do that different. Have you ever just asked the owners to give a budget? 

They should really. If not get ideas on internet for low budget activities and approach charities , dance schools, local secondary schools who can come in for free to provide entertainment for your residents. Ask companies to donate to you and your care home. I have at Lovejoy Centre on numerous occasions given away activity products to homes so at least their AC's have something.

Put your hard work together  and see your planned sessions flourish, always have a contingency plan in case something happens.

If you have a plan you will always succeed. I  wish you a very pleasant New Year as we go full steam ahead into 2017 and am always here to support you.

Online Support For you From Me!

Online Academy For AC's Only!

Last  year I established the AC Tastic  Academy an online hub of support for AC's that covers just about everything you need, paper work templates, understanding terms and subject matter, CQC stuff etc and lots  more.
AC Tastic Academy -

Full details of content and price and how to sign up is here- .http://www.actasticacademy.com/signup

Freelance AC Course

If you are thinking about being a freelance AC or want to do this in addition to your current role I have but together a course with 12 modules and accompanying video's to show you how and I am with you every step of the way.
I show you how to do this in 21 days! Anyone ready to change their life for good?

 You can sign up here and get  full information about it -http://lovejoycentre.co.uk/freelance-activity-coordinator-course


Dementia Friendly Products-

I have created a range of dementia friendly products to assist in activity provision. My product range is always evolving  as I continuously create new products for AC's to use in their activity provision. I have sold hundreds of mats, they are stocked and sold by major outlets as well and help you deliver reminiscence in a unique way.Take a look at my online store here-

http://lovejoycentre.co.uk/store


Annual AC Wall Planner and Diary 2017

I have created a useful wall planner that has all the key dates on it for you to help prompt and remind you whats on when. Also this year I have created a diary that has a month at a view, helpful hints and tips for your role and a suggested activity idea for you each month.A wonderful resource for an AC .
You can purchase your 2017 wall planner and diary set here -

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/272508513570?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649

Training Courses and Workshops

I do offer 121 mentoring and training  and run workshops through out the year as well. If interested please contact me at lovejoycentre@gmail.com.

Annual Care Show and AC Awards

For the past three years I have been running a successful care show connecting service providers and health professionals together for a day.
Also each May we have our annual Activity Coordinator Awards and this is a big event on our calendar and everyone is welcome to nominate someone nationally, we get good press coverage.
I believe in raising the profile of the AC role and honouring it.


Online FB Group Support

I hear all too often the AC role is isolating so I have built up an online community to help support other AC's worldwide in our little hub. 
Lots of special promotions, free giveaways  and a great resource of files on activities is available to all members free. 

You can join the group here -
.https://www.facebook.com/groups/lovejoycentregroup

I also do a monthly newsletter you can sign up here and get my free eBook-
 To get your free copy of our ebook: "10 Top Tips for Engaging and Stimulating Activities With The Elderly"

Please click below:
http://eepurl.com/Iw9p1

I just wanted you to all know what resources are available to you as AC's through me no matter where you are in the world.

Wishing you all well and until next time keep shining and I wish you all a shiny active new Year ahead.

Love,

Ann Marie xxx