Minister visit for care home

A KIRKPATRICK Fleming care home has been visited by Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport of Scotland Minister Tom Arthur this week. It comes after Notwen House received f<z8.200>ormal recognition in the Scottish Parliament last year. A motion lodged by Emma Harper MSP and supported by several other MSPs highlighted the home’s outstanding commitment to residential care. The motion celebrated the dedication of the Notwen House team, including long-serving staff, for creating a warm, person-centred environment for residents. It also commends the leadership of owner Jim Gatherum and manager Julie Morley, whose compassion and professionalism have earned the home a reputation for excellence. Manager Julie – who has worked in the sector for 49 years – was delighted with the recognition and the visit from Mr Arthur. She said: “It was wonderful, he spoke to residents and showed great interest in what we do. “He said he could see the good positive relationships staff have with residents. “He had some time with myself and other staff where we talked about some of the challenges the care home sector has and the good things about what we do. We’re truly delighted, honoured and over the moon we’ve had that time and praise for the work that everyone here puts in. “What really matters to me is that the residents are happy and well cared for. It can be challenging but it’s well worth it. “I always think of the staff as family and we make sure they are fully supported and equally looked after.” Last May, Notwen House received three very good grades (the second highest possible) for its leadership; staff team and how well it supports peoples wellbeing. The service also were graded good for its setting and care and support planning. Key messages from the Care Inspectorate included: “Staff knew people well and treated them with kindness and respect. “The service was well led with the manager and depute manager being approachable and supportive. “People’s wellbeing benefitted from a responsive staff team. “Leaders were highly knowledgeable about aspects of the service which required improvement. “The home was clean and welcoming.”