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New recruits, new career structure and a revamped menu at two Gwynedd care homes

Four new starters, further recruitment and a revamped food offering are just some of the major changes at two Gwynedd care homes.

The Meddyg Care Group, which runs two specialist dementia nursing homes in Porthmadog and Criccieth, is also set to roll out a new career structure that will help the organisation become a Living Wage employer.

The new recruits bolster what managing director Kevin Edwards describes as a skilled and passionate workforce, with additional hires on the horizon, including a family liaison officer.

Meddyg Care has also introduced Apetito, a dedicated supplier of meals for the health and social care sector.

Residents will benefit from improved consistency and quality, more choice and increased textured options to accommodate individuals who experience difficulty in swallowing some foods.

The changes were progressed throughout lockdown, during which time no residents tested positive for the coronavirus.

Kevin, who took over the running of the Porthmadog site in October 2017 before bringing The Pines nursing home in Criccieth under the Meddyg Care umbrella in April 2018, said: “It’s been a strange and worrying time for residents, their families and our staff.

“We worked hard to reassure all by implementing new measures to prioritise the health and safety of everyone.

“We’re thrilled to not only welcome new members to the team but to continue recruiting. “In addition, we’ve had very good feedback so far from residents regarding the launch of Apetito and we’re looking forward to welcoming their families to a socially-distanced tasting day on 22 and 23 September.”

Meddyg Care has a waiting list at both homes and Kevin believes the focus on employee development to ensure high-quality care is central to their success.

He added: “Working in the care industry is becoming a professional career option. We provide comprehensive training opportunities for all colleagues ranging from online to on-site courses.

“We have a skilled and passionate team, which also includes staff volunteering as champions on specific topics, for example we have a skincare champion who is the go-to person for advice and guidance.

“Continuing professional development is at the heart of our vision to become a Living Wage employer and be recognised as the leading dementia care specialist in the UK.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sam Harris .