Remembrance Sunday gives time for reflection and remembrance
Our manager Libby regularly reports on Abberton news in local publications. Most recently she took inspiration from the quote “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” by Søren Kierkegaard.
“With the arrival of shorter, less brighter days and seemingly much longer nights, I can recognise the desire in me and those around me at home and work to snuggle up with whatever we deem our own “comfort blankets” …and hibernate! Only rousing and moving with necessity (dog walking, cuppa making and work). However, this time leading up to the New Year lends itself to reflection. Whether good memories or darker days, the act of reflection causes us to review past actions and events and question how effective we were, or how we could have done things differently. Over the past few months, I have been encouraged to consider my team here at Abberton Manor and identify staff that excel at caring and who focus on “putting our clients first”, whatever their individual roles may be. It was a great reflection exercise as it highlighted our strengthening links within the community, schools, toddler groups and the local villages. Then the recognition of colleagues who went outside their comfort
zones to upskill themselves to be able to pass that knowledge onto their colleagues, thus benefiting all that live and work within Abberton Manor.
The stand out reflection for this year is the importance of relationships. Whether between staff, our residents and their visitors, and the wider community. This is what brings light, meaning and warmth into our home and will remain the foundation and focus in the coming year. Best wishes to all.”
We wanted to give you an insight into these aspects of Reflection, Recognition and Relationships at Abberton.
Reflection
Many of our residents remember the impact of the World Wars and we all made over 100 poppies to create a field of remembrance. The poppies looked spectacular. We shared lots of war memories – both happy and sad and took part in laying a wreath at our local war memorial. It was wonderful to have a visit from the children of Langenhoe Primary School to our poppy field and also the 34th Colchester Sea Scout Group who joined us for Remembrance Sunday.
The field of poppies
Langenhoe Primary children
Colchester Sea Scouts
The War Memorial
Recognition
We have just celebrated winning another award, this time at the Essex Regional Great British Care Awards. We had staff nominations across our home, a mark of the highest levels of care our staff have for our residents. Libby won an award for being the Best Care Assessor and will go on to the National Awards in March. Congratulations Libby!
We have had an award winning year at Abberton and this reflects the care and dedication of all our staff. Well done everyone.
Winning at The Great British Care Awards
Relationships
Building relationships with our residents and their families and being part of the local community are central to our home. A huge thank you to Jim, Les and David, who regularly visit and delight out residents with quizzes, music and laughter.
Gunni from Kiddleydivey brings music therapy to our residents. In November, we also welcomed Louise from Boogie Beats for a morning of dance. It was such a hit it is sure to be repeated in the New Year. Isaac from Wild Science brought a huge number of cuddly (and some less so!) animals to visit our residents.
Children visiting us for trick or treating at Halloween was a scream! They then all hopped on the Abberton minibus for a spooky ride about the area.
Jonathan has a huge programme of events and activities so do call us for more information or check our facebook page. Visitors are always welcome.
The night bus!
The Night bus!
Trick or treat!
Joining in the fun