Contents
March 2025 Employee Magazine Issue 64
PeopleNews@helpinghands.co.uk Email your stories to:
Welcome to your March Voices Magazine ! As we step into a new month, March brings plenty of exciting updates. In this edition, we’re sharing inspiring stories, celebrating key awareness days and highlighting the amazing work of our teams. So, grab a cuppa and enjoy this month’s update! Have you had an interesting team meeting recently which you want to share? Or perhaps you’re a carer with an amazing story about someone you care for. We would love to hear about it! Email stories to PeopleNews@helpinghands.co.uk
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What’s been going on at Helping Hands? Nutrition & Hydration Week International Women’s Day Building success Hello spring A day in the life of a CTP Years of Service Love is in the air - Shipley Recipes March lucky dip
Share your stories and achievements to be featured in an upcoming edition!
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See last month’s Voices magazine here!
March 2025 Voices Magazine
Visit our social media pages!
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What’s been going on at Helping Hands
There is so much going on across the Helping Hands network. Here’s a snapshot of what’s been keeping our teams busy:
Rotherham Branch Launch
We are delighted to announce the launch of our newest branch in the market town of Rotherham. “We are delighted to bring Helping Hands to Rotherham,” said Hayley Odemis, Branch Care Manager. “We are committed to becoming an integral part of
this close-knit community by providing professional care and support to every individual that should need it, whilst enabling them to live well in the comfort of their homes’.
Flying high at the Coventry branch The Coventry branch are flying! With business growth on the rise and recruitment drives in full swing, the energy in the office is truly inspiring. A happy office means happy carers and happy customers. Well done to the entire team for their dedication and hard work—keep up the amazing momentum!
A fond farewell at the Fakenham Branch The Fakenham branch received a beautiful bouquet of flowers from a customer who no longer required our service. The team will always strive to deliver the best possible care and it’s moments like these where we are reminded of the deep impact we have on the lives of those we support. This customer was truly sad to leave and her thoughtful gesture speaks volumes about the relationships she built with the branch team and the difference they made to her life. This bouquet is just one of the many ways our customers show their appreciation everyday.
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A community coming together Paula, one of our dedicated carers in Macclesfield , has recently been working with a local community initiative to support clients in need. She connected with a woman in Sutton who has set up a community fridge for local residents. This initiative receives food donations from supermarkets that are near their sell-by dates, but still are perfectly good to eat. Recognising an opportunity to benefit those in her care, Paula spoke with the organiser about the possibility of providing fresh fruit and vegetable hampers for clients in the area. The result was a thoughtful donation for Paula’s customer, Christine, who was delighted by the idea. Going the extra mile, Paula not only delivered the hamper but also prepared the fresh vegetables into a hearty stew for Christine, as well as part-cooked bags of vegetables for her freezer. Christine was incredibly grateful for this support. This initiative is a fantastic example of community spirit. A huge well done to Paula for her kindness and dedication— this is what true person-centred care looks like!
The Cannock branch have recently held a focus group for one of their customers, bringing together some of their regular carers to discuss needs, challenges and ways in which visits can be enhanced. The session was incredibly productive, with carers sharing valuable insights and ideas. Their suggestions will now be incorporated into the support plan, making care even more person-centred! A big thank you to everyone who took part. Your feedback is essential in helping us improve and provide the best possible support! Feedback focus group at the Helping Hands Cannock Branch
Please send us your branch and office stories to peoplenews@helpinghands.co.uk and be featured in an upcoming Voices magazine!
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Nutrition & Hydration Week
Introduce more protein to your diet.
Do not ditch the carbs - you need this for energy!
A person needs certain fats to help maintain optimal health.
Tips to increase food intake
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Eat little and often - if you find it hard to eat a big meal, that’s ok! Six small meals are as good as three big meals.
Eat more on the days/times when you're more hungry - if you’re more hungry in the morning, try having a bigger breakfast.
Nutrition and Hydration Week is being held on 17th until 23rd March and is a vital reminder of the importance of eating well and staying hydrated, not only for ourselves but for those we support too. Good nutrition and proper hydration are key to overall health, boosting energy levels, supporting recovery and enhancing wellbeing. In this short article we’ve put together some useful tips, information and ideas to help you keep on top of your health! Tips for a nutritious diet
Try to eat every 2 to 3 hours - even if it’s just a small snack, a piece of fruit, or a smoothie.
Hydration is needed for good digestion, circulation, and for general cognitive function. Water is essential for us to consume, but we can struggle to drink enough.
Keep a bottle of water with you throughout the day and take small sips as you go.
If you don't like the taste of water on its own, try adding slices of lemon.
Aim for 6 - 8 glasses (200ml) of water every day
Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up in the mornings. Or take a drink while you are brewing your morning coffee or tea.
Cut down on sugar
Don't skip meals
Limit your salt intake
Eat more oily fish
Eat more fruit and veg
For more information on how you can celebrate Nutrition and Hydration week, please click here.
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Story LEADING EXAMPLE BY At Helping Hands Warwickshire, teamwork and support make all the difference—not just for our customers, but for our carers too. Susan Percival, a dedicated carer, wanted to express her gratitude to Ashley Watts, Claire Cox, and Dawn Wooton for their unwavering support and kindness. Ashley, our new Branch Care Manager in Stratford, goes the extra mile to ensure his team’s safety, even sending messages during bad weather to remind carers to take care on the roads. He also offers a compassionate ear, providing much needed support during emotional moments. Claire and Dawn work tirelessly behind the scenes, always ready with a quick response to any call or email, ensuring carers feel valued and supported. Susan shared, “Ashley, Claire, and Dawn go that extra mile to help us look after our clients. They are always there when we need them. I’d like to say a big ‘Thank You’ to them.” A huge well done to Ashley, Claire, and Dawn for embodying the spirit of teamwork and care. Your efforts truly make a difference!
International Women's Day (IWD) is held on 8th March and is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It is a day to honour the achievements of women across all fields from science and politics to education and caregiving and to amplify their voices. Beyond celebration, it serves as a call to action encouraging individuals, communities and organisations to work towards a more inclusive and equal world. 8th March 2025 International Women’s Day By recognising the contributions of women and addressing ongoing inequalities, International Women’s Day helps drive positive change for future generations.
What's the IWD 2025 campaign theme?
The IWD 2025 campaign theme is ‘ Accelerate Action’. Focussing on the need to Accelerate Action emphasises the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality. It calls for increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres. Learn more about the IWD 2025 campaign theme here.
Get Involved!
From IWD resources to help raise awareness, to social media assets, printable items, and inspiration, this free IWD Planning Toolkit is packed with helpful ideas and resources.
Download your own planning toolkit here.
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Earn extra income with Care Friends!
Our Care Friends app will help hourly carers earn extra cash by referring someone they know to Helping Hands!
Care Friends is a scheme that will make referring a friend quick and easy! By sharing jobs via social media, WhatsApp and text, you’ll earn points, and you'll earn points that can turn into cash! Scan the QR code for more information.
If you are a Branch Manager, take a look at the video link here. Care Friends can really help with your recruitment campaigns and is proven to increase the quality of applications.
Earn extra money in your next pay packet! What could be better? If you are a carer, click on the video link here and discover how Care Friends can work for you.
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As one of the newest additions to Helping Hands, our Knaresborough branch is already making an impact under the leadership of Branch Care Manager, Victoria Charles. With a career built on achieving high standards and a passion for leading by example, Victoria is committed to delivering exceptional care in the community. “ Throughout my career, I have always strived to achieve high standards in everything I do. This ensures that I lead my team with a ‘lead by example’ approach. Joining Helping Hands has given me the opportunity to develop my career with their remarkable support, enabling me to provide exceptional care services in the area where I grew up. My knowledge of the community and existing connections are helping to ensure the success of the Knaresborough branch in every aspect. I lead with a person-centred approach, engaging with all customers to build strong relationships and mutual understanding. By getting to know them personally, I ensure they feel valued and supported. The team and I work closely together, prioritising support for one another to keep the branch running smoothly and efficiently. With an open-door policy, we foster an environment of transparency and collaboration, ensuring that both staff and customers receive the highest level of care, ultimately delivering a premium service.” Building Success
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Get back to nature Spring is an ideal time to explore the great outdoors. Take a stroll through a local park, hike a scenic trail or visit botanical gardens to admire the season’s vibrant blooms. For those with green thumbs, gardening can be a rewarding way to enjoy the fresh air while adding some colour to your surroundings. Outdoor socialising With the return of sunnier days, social gatherings move outside. Plan a picnic with family or friends, fire up the barbecue, or enjoy a coffee catch-up at an outdoor café. A leisurely bike ride or a friendly game of rounders in the park can also bring people together while keeping active. Seasonal activities Spring brings an array of events and activities to enjoy. Check out local farmers’ markets for fresh produce, attend outdoor festivals, or join a community clean-up to give back while soaking up the sunshine. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try paddleboarding, kayaking or even an open-air yoga session? Wellness and relaxation Longer daylight hours are perfect for establishing healthier habits. Take your morning workout outside, practice mindfulness in nature, or simply enjoy reading a book in the sun. Spring’s uplifting energy makes it a great time to set new personal goals and embrace a refreshed mindset.
As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, spring offers the perfect opportunity to shake off the winter blues and embrace the outdoors. SPRING Hello Whether you prefer adventure, relaxation or something in between, here are some great ways to embrace a new season. Take the opportunity to step outside, try something new and make the most of the warmer months ahead!
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"Professional and thorough" The professionalism and thoroughness of the assessment of my mum’s needs is stand out. Angie came to meet my mum and helped put her at ease. The package was easy to set up and affordable. - Gemma
Five Star Feedback "Excellent support and care"" Helping Hands have supported us with increased care for our elderly mum. Mum is adamant she wants to stay in her own home but needs a lot of support to achieve this. Any changes needed to the care plan are actioned swiftly and reviews are regular. The carers are always cheerful, positive and sensitive. - Lin "Caring, reliable and professional" I have found Helping Hands to be caring, reliable, and professional. They’ve provided care for the last six months of my father-in-laws life and he very much enjoyed the visits of all the carers. I would have no hesitation in recommending them. - Simon
"Simply the best" The initial phone call to enquire for care for my mum was answered by a kind and sympathetic lady who organised a home visit within 24hrs. Tasleem arrived to find out about mum’s needs and set up a care plan with respect and kindness and put both mum and I at ease. Cassie started soon after and she is a breath of fresh air to mum, full of fun and laughter and mum looks forward to her coming and makes the care chores so much easier! - Linda
"Very pleased with Helping Hands" I’m very pleased with the service I am receiving. The office are easy to get hold of. They reply with any questions and sort any problems fast. The carers are polite, helpful and considerate. - Lesley
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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A CARE & TRAINING PRACTITIONER We caught up with four of our lovely Care and Training Practitioners and asked what they loved most about their role at Helping Hands:
Hello! I'm Grace Burnip DurhamBranch
I've been with Helping Hands for 2 years, starting as a carer which was a role I loved. It was incredibly rewarding but I was eager to develop my skills and support people in a different way.
Hello! I'm Jodie Bagnall
That’s why I applied for the CTP role, confident that my knowledge of customers and their needs would help me in training and guiding new carers. What I love most about being a CTP is that no two days are the same. I’m always learning, especially from my team, as we combine our skills to support each other. I enjoy the mix of office work and time spent out in the community visiting carers, customers and their families. It allows me to stay connected to the heart of care while continuing to develop my skills. A good day in this role feels rewarding, fulfilling and positive, knowing we’re helping people remain safely at home. For anyone thinking about applying for a branch role, my advice is simple, come and talk to us! There’s so much that happens behind the scenes and we’re always happy to share insight and guidance. I work for Helping Hands because kindness is truly at the core of everything we do. The company has supported my journey from carer to CTP, helping me grow and develop along the way. Outside of work, I love spending time with my two Basset Hounds, Norman and Nancy, going for walks, hitting the gym, and being with friends and family.
Derby Branch
I’ve been with Helping Hands for nearly 3 years, following 2 years in an end-of-life hospice. I joined because I wanted to make a real difference. I now have the privilege of not just caring for people but inspiring others to do the same.
That’s why I became a CTP, to guide new carers in delivering professional, compassionate care. The best part of my role is inspiring and influencing new carers. Seeing new starters grow in confidence is incredibly rewarding. Even on the hardest days, knowing we make a difference keeps me going. For me, this isn’t just a job, it’s a family. The connections I’ve made make it impossible to leave! Outside of work, I keep things simple - I eat, sleep, yap, repeat! And when it comes to being a great CTP, it’s not about having all the answers. If you’re caring, talkative and ready to get stuck in, you’ll learn the rest along the way.
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Hello! I'm Diane Wood Warrington Branch
Hello! I'm Tracey Crook Swansea Branch
I started my journey with Helping Hands in April 2020, right at the start of the Covid pandemic. I had never worked in care before, but I took the leap and applied for a role as a carer. From the moment I began, I knew this was the job for me.
I joined Helping Hands in September 2021 after working in hospitality. Covid and caring for my parents, both of whom had dementia, inspired me to reassess my career goals and take the leap into care.
In February 2022, an email went out to all carers, inviting anyone interested to spend a day in the branch answering phones and getting a feel for office life. I jumped at the opportunity and was lucky enough to be chosen. From that point on, I worked in the office every Monday, handling calls and taking notes. Then, in August 2022, a full-time Care & Training Practitioner (CTP) position became available. Along with two other candidates, I applied, and in September I received the call to say I had been successful. I enjoy the compliance aspect of the role, checking in with customers to ensure they are happy with the care they’re receiving, carrying out care reviews with families, and making any necessary updates to care plans. I love running RAD days and introducing potential new carers to the role, showing them what a difference they can make. For anyone considering a CTP role, my advice would be to have patience, there’s a lot to learn. Outside of work, my favourite thing is catching up with my two grown-up daughters, who live in North Wales. To be a great CTP, I believe you need strong communication skills, a good understanding of the carer role, and knowledge of moving and handling as well as medication. Most importantly, you need to be able to work as part of a team, because when we support each other, we make the biggest difference.
At a jobs fair, something about Helping Hands stood out and I knew it was the right choice. I spent two years as a Visiting Carer, a role I loved, but I wanted to develop further. I missed my first chance to apply for a branch role but when another opportunity came up in November 2023, I didn’t hesitate and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. What I love most is staying connected to customers and their families while growing personally and professionally. It’s the best of both worlds! Three words for a good day? Kindness, laughter, positivity. Thinking of applying? Go for it! If it’s not for you, you can always return to being a Visiting Carer, but it might just change your outlook completely. I work for Helping Hands because I’ve found my people. They make a difference in my life every day, whether they realise it or not. Outside of work, I’m a wife and mum to four amazing kids. I recently married my bearded best friend of 15 years! I love music, caravan trips, open-air adventures and weekly kitchen discos. To be a great CTP, you need organisation, communication, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a big personality always helps!
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Our ACM Moments of Kindness winner is Alison. Everyone loves to feel appreciated and today, the Maidstone branch made sure Alison did! As a token of their gratitude, they surprised her with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. While Alison always strives to show her teams how much she values them, it was lovely for her to receive this kindness in return.
Our Moments of Kindness scheme celebrates members of staff who have gone above and beyond in their work, and for their customers and colleagues. Here at Helping Hands, kindness knows no bounds, and you embody that with the amazing work you do. Here are just a few examples…
The branch have been inundated with compliments about Charlie’s incredible care, with customers and families singing her praises. One next of kin shared, “All the carers are wonderful, but there’s something about Charlie—when she walks into Mum’s room, her face lights up like never before.” Thank you Charlie, for your kindness and commitment. Derby’s Moments of Kindness winner is Charlie.
Halifax Moments of Kindness winner is Diane! Congratulations to Diane, the Halifax Moments of Kindness winner for February! A customer shared compliments about Diane’s patience and dedication during care calls, highlighting the kindness and support she brings to every visit. Thank you Diane for your compassionate care and commitment!
Diane
If you would like to nominate one of your colleagues simply visit: helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/momentsofkindness
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Newport’s Moments of Kindness winner is Ceri!
Since joining the team, Ceri has consistently gone above and beyond, offering incredible support to everyone she works with. Her dedication and compassion have not only made a significant impact on her customers lives, but have also earned her an abundance of positive feedback from those she cares for.
Lutterworth’s Moments of Kindness winner is Louise! Helping Hands Lutterworth is delighted to recognise Louise for her kindness and dedication. She has gone above and beyond to support her customers, from accompanying one to the theatre and personal appointments to making Christmas extra special by
Another winner for Halifax! Let’s congratulate Titilope! Titilope’s commitment to her customers is always commended and valued and she has received many compliments from her customers who say she is an exemplary carer. Thank you Titilope for all your hard work and dedication!
fulfilling a heartfelt request to be there on the day. Louise also recently helped a customer celebrate their 100th birthday with a thoughtful card of her own accord. Although new to adult social care, Louise’s compassion and commitment shine through. Thank you, Louise—keep up the great work!
If you would like to nominate one of your colleagues simply visit: helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/ momentsofkindness
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SERVICE YEARS OF
5 YEARS Anthony
Have you or a member of your team recently celebrated a Helping Hands milestone? If you have worked at Helping Hands for 5, 10, 15 or even 20 years this year, we want to here from you!
5 YEARS
Barbara
10 YEARS
Whether you work in the Support Office, or you are a Helping Hands professional carer, it is important to recognise everyone across the business for their dedication and hard work. We want to celebrate and congratulate you on your tenure with your teams. Email peoplenews@helpinghands.co.uk so we can share your success!
Beth
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Love is in THE AIR Shipley Branch
The Shipley branch know that small gestures can make a big difference. That’s why on each Valentine’s Day they like to bring a little joy to their customers, many of whom are widows, by giving them a small token gift. One previous year, a customer had not been a fan of chocolate and so CTP Marina decided to get creative. Knowing this customer’s love of pasties, she bought him one, attached a rose and surprised him with it. His face lit up with happiness at the thoughtful gesture which reminds us all that its moments like this that make it all worth it. This year was no different. When our CTPs arrived on customer’s doorsteps with chocolates in hand, the reactions were priceless. One lady was touched by the surprise and said it had been a long time since she had been anyone’s Valentine. She was so moved that she immediately called her son to share the moment. For the branch, it was a simple gesture, but for our customers, it was so much more. It was a reminder that they are cared for and remembered. In care, it’s the little things that mean the most and sometimes a small act of kindness can bring back a lifetime of cherished memories.
We’re on the search for some heart-warming tales for our monthly Voices magazine . It can be anything, from a day out with your customer to a branch bake sale or an interesting team meeting. Have you got a story to share? We’d love to hear from you!
If you or a team member have something you’d like to share, please email peoplenews@helpinghands.co.uk.
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RHUBARB & BERRY
A super easy rhubarb crumble recipe that will taste of pure spring! Serve with cream, custard or ice-cream!
CRUMBLE
Ingredients
1 bunch rhubarb, trimmed and cut into 3cm pieces 500g frozen mixed berries 1 tbs lemon juice, plus zest of lemon 1/2 cup caster sugar Crumble 1/2 cup plain flour 1/4 cup chopped Macadamia
1/4 cup shredded coconut 1/3 cup brownsugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon 125g unsalted butter 1/2 cup rolled aats
To serve
Vanilla Ice Cream
Method
Step 1. Preheat oven to 180C. Place rhubarb, berries, lemon juice and zest along with caster sugar in a saucepan over medium heat and cook for 10 mins or until rhubarb just begins to soften. Remove from heat and set aside until needed. Step 2. For the crumble, place all ingredients in a large bowl and mix together with your hands until you have a chunky textural crumble mix. Step 3. Pour rhubarb and berry mix into your favourite baking or pie dish. Top with crumble mixture and bake for 20mins or until the top is golden and crunchy and the mix is bubbling. Step 4. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving with vanilla ice-cream.
Recipe from: haydenquinn.com
30 mins
Easy
4 servings
SERVES 4
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Let's Celebrate
Feeling lucky this St. Patrick's Day?
St. Patrick's
It’s time to test your luck in our Lucky Dip Competition! We’re celebrating the spirit of St. Patrick's Day with a no-stress competition. Your entry could see you winning a little something special. How it works: Submit your name and the words ‘lucky me’ before 16th March by emailing peoplenews@helpinghands.co.uk . The Dip: On March 17th, the Marketing team will enter all names into a pot. Reveal: One winner will be chosen at random from the pot and that’s all there is to it! No questions to answer, no guessing games, just a simple entry email. You might just find that your luck is in!
Day March 17th, 2025
This month’s prize is a £50 Gift Voucher from buyagift.co.uk. Choose from a vast selection of experiences, from delicious dining delights to supercar driving thrills. Good Luck!
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