Here at Riversway we know how important it is to support not just our residents, but also their friends and family, in dealing with the effects of dementia.

Recently we held the first meeting of our new dementia forum, designed to be a welcoming and confidential setting for people to share experiences of their dementia journey.

Led by Jakki Whitehead, who heads our specialist services in mental health and dementia, and general manager Jan Wilkins, the meeting was a success with 10 people in attendance.

The group discussed issues including facts and figures about dementia, and how it affects the people they love.

Both Jakki and Jan shared their own stories and experiences of working in the dementia care industry.

We believe there is much we can achieve through this forum, and we hope to invite people with specialist knowledge to join us on occasion, such as trained memory nurses.

If anyone would like to join us at our next meeting, do get in touch.

‘Dignity & cakes’ was the order of the day for our residents and staff here at Riversway as we celebrated Dignity Action Day.

The national event, led by the National Dignity Council, is designed to showcase a ‘respectful way of behaving towards vulnerable people;’ and during Dignity Action Day, those in the health and care professions are asked to promote dignity in their place of work.

At Riversway, residents and carers were asked what dignity meant to them, and then their answers were written on colourful paper leaves, flowers and butterflies to hang from their ‘digni-tree’ – a decoration that really catches the eye of visitors to our home.

A group of residents also helped to decorate cakes for a special ‘digni-tea party’ which were enjoyed by all.

Dignity in care is an important part of what we do at Riversway, and the day really gave us all a chance to show off why it is so vital.

One of our residents told us she thought it was a great idea, and a very important subject for people to express their views about.

You can view our facebook Dignity in Care photo album by clicking on HERE

Read more about Dignity in Care on their website by clicking HERE

Our own Jan Wilkins recently completed an industry-leading course on ‘person centred’ care.

Jan undertook the year long course through Dementia Care Matters – led by noted industry expert David Sheard, during which she covered the ‘emotional journey’ of dementia.

The course is designed to provide an understanding of the emotional process of a person with dementia, as well as those around them such as friends and relatives.

Jan, already an experienced professional with years of dementia care experience under her belt, reports that the course was an invaluable experience which has armed her with advanced skills.

Key to the course was understanding and supporting people with dementia and those friends and relatives affected by their condition.

Expert David Sheard – recognised as one of the care industry’s leading lights in the field – gave part of the training course himself.

Jan will now pass on her knowledge to the staff at Riversway and support the dementia team in its work.

Experienced care professional Jakki Whitehead has joined Riversway to help lead specialist services in mental health and dementia.

The registered nurse joins from a care home in south Cheshire, and returns to her roots with her role at Riversway. Jakki trained in Bristol and worked as a community psychiatric nurse at Southmead Hospital for a decade before work took her away from the area.

As part of the Riversway team, her responsibilities include supporting training, developing the dementia services, working closely with residents and their family members, and helping to develop activities.

She also holds a number of qualifications including a QCF Level 5 and a Certificate of Continuing Education in dementia care.

Jan Wilkins, general manager at Riversway, said: “At Riversway we pride ourselves on providing the highest levels of care.”

“Dementia care is a fast-moving specialism and with her enviable background Jakki will continue to develop our care provision and oversee the training our specialist care staff receive.”