Inform Newsletter May 2015 | Page 8

Great British Care Awards Elaine Bashford, Activity Care Coordinator from Barton Court care home has been honoured at a glittering awards ceremony. Elaine received the Activity Organiser of the Year Award at the Great South East Care Awards Gala Dinner, held at the Metropole Hotel, Brighton on Saturday 8th November. Elaine had demonstrated to the judging panel that she can provide a needs led, varied and appropriate programme for those living with dementia in a residential care setting. Barton Court is a residential care home specialising in dementia care, run by Avante Care & Support. Elaine who joined Avante Care & Support in March 2012 said “I am absolutely delighted to win this award. It was a great evening and a fantastic feeling when my name was called out.” On Tuesday 21st April, four of Amherst Court's residents went to the Chatham Central Theatre for an afternoon movie showing. Marie Taylor, Activities Coordinator, said: 'We went into Chatham and stopped off at Coffee Republic. As we sat outside enjoying our coffee, Betty said “we've got sunshine and entertainment” as a busker was playing a guitar right next to us. From there we went into the theatre where we had tea, a cake and watched the Some Like It Hot movie. Frank and Audrey said they had never seen it and Yvonne said she had once, many years ago. Betty said “The last time I came to the pictures was when I was a little girl” Frank said it was a “great afternoon” and Audrey said the “film was perfect”. It was a lovely afternoon, a real change and everyone really enjoyed themselves'! 8 “I felt honoured when I learnt that a member of staff from our Head Office had nominated me for this award. To be recognised for doing a job that I love and feel passionate about is amazing” Elaine was shortlisted to the finals of the Great British Care Awards in Birmingham but narrowly missed the winning title. From all of us at Avante Care & Support you are still a winner in our eyes Elaine, well done and keep up the great work!