The Care Home Activity Workers Network was developed as a result of a consultation held with 8  care  homes to look at physical and social activities for residents.  One suggestion was to provide an opportunity for activity workers to come together on a regular basis as they often felt isolated in their role. Similar networks had been established in Perth & Kinross and Angus.  The first meeting took place in March 2016 with representation from 4 care homes and this has now grown to an average of 10-12 activity workers attending regularly. The Network provides the opportunity for sharing information, learning from each other, sharing resources and organising joint events for residents ie Go for Gold, Xmas Party

Through this Network activity workers have had the opportunity to work together with staff from Leisure and Culture, Volunteer Dundee, Dundee Voluntary Action and Dundee & Angus College.  A number of guest speakers have attended the meetings including representatives from Dundee Social Enterprise Network, Trellis, Leisure & Culture Library Services, Dundee Voluntary Action and Community Companions.  Links have also been made with the new V & A Museum, McManus Art Gallery & Museum and Verdant Works.

Community Involvement and social events for residents has included

  • Presentation to residents from V & A with the opportunity to experience the virtual reality goggles
  • Regularly attending the Cinema Club run by Nae Limits at Ardler Complex
  • Accessing Good to Go Out Bus for organised trips
  • Attending Oor Wullie Tea Dance
  • Attending Jazz Festival Week – free event for older people to attend
  • Taking part in an indoor Garden Workshop organised through Trellis planting spring bulbs in containers.
  • Attending Afternoon Tea at other residential homes
  • Attending Tea Dances at Lifegate Church
  • Opportunity to take part in 4 workshops organised with McManus Art Gallery & Museum as part of the People’s Story for the 150 anniversary celebrations. (May-June 2017)

Physical Activities developed include a

  • Monthly pilot programme developed at Douglas and Lynch Sports Centres from Jan 2017-April 2017 1 x month
  • Funding received from Awards for All in January 2017 to purchase sports and games equipment to be shared and accessed by local care homes.
  • Links established with Dundee and Angus College care students to support Go or Gold pre-training sessions both at local sports centres and at the homes plus helping at the event.
  • Go for Gold Event in July 2016
  • Go for Gold Event in May 2017

This Network has developed into a very proactive group who are very keen to look at ways of developing links in the community for the benefits of their residents.  The joint events have proved to be very popular and the residents get a lot of enjoyment meeting new people and taking part in activities.

If you would like further information about the Network or would like to attend please contact Sandra Stewart, Healthcare and Wellbeing Team, Volunteer Dundee on 01382 797355 or email sandrastewart@volunteerdundee.org.uk.