Voices EMPLOYEE MAGAZINE
IssueNo.065
April 2025
Contents
Issue 65
April 2025 Employee Magazine PeopleNews@helpinghands.co.uk Email your stories to:
Hi, I’m Mo, and I’m excited to introduce myself as the new editor of Voices Magazine! I’m really looking forward to getting started and bringing fresh energy to the magazine. With spring ushering in a sense of renewal and brighter days ahead, this edition is packed with exciting
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What’s been going on at Helping Hands? A busy month full of team meetings World Health Day Welcome to Helping Hands A day in the life of a CTP Hello Spring Clinical Team Easter Get to know the Payroll team Easter Egg Hunt
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Share your stories and achievements to be featured in an upcoming edition!
updates, heartwarming stories, and a fun Easter Egg Hunt competition to keep things lively. I hope you enjoy the read! Mohammed Syed, People Engagement Manager
Got a story? We would love to hear about it! Email stories to PeopleNews@helpinghands.co.uk
See last month’s Voices magazine here!
April 2025 Voices Magazine
Visit our social media pages!
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What’s been going on at Helping Hands
There’s so much going on across the Helping Hands network. Here’s a snapshot of what’s been keeping our teams busy:
Her husband, Paul, was amazed. Mary held Natalie’s hand tightly, smiling through tears of joy, and even kissed her on the cheek. It was a beautiful moment, filled with warmth and emotion. Moments like this remind us that the care we provide is more than just practical help, it’s about building meaningful connections that truly make a difference. We’re proud to play a part in creating those special moments every day.
Felling like a kid again Lucy Soper, one of our Carers from Luton took one of her customers, VJ, to the park. They had a fantastic time, enjoying the fresh air, laughter, and a bit of sunshine. It was a beautiful reminder of how little moments like these can bring so much joy.
A special moment to remember One of our lovely customers at the Lutterworth branch, Mary, recently reminded us just how important connections can be. Mary is non-verbal, but she’s always aware of what’s going on around her. Thanks to the love and dedication of her family and the support of our team, Mary continues to live happily at home. Not long ago, Mary had a wonderful surprise when her former carer, Natalie, returned to Helping Hands Lutterworth. As Natalie walked in and said, “I’m back, Mary,” something amazing happened, Mary tried to speak back.
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With constant support, Diane ensured Mr Aird could fully enjoy himself in the celebrations. She was by his side as he enjoyed canapés, mingled with family and friends, and later sat down for the wedding meal. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly seeing Mr Aird dancing the night away with his loved ones, a moment filled with pure joy.
Making it to the big day! Late last year, one of our CTPs, Diane Wood, went above and beyond to ensure our valued customer, Mr Donald Aird, could share a cherished family moment, his daughter’s wedding at the beautiful Rowallan Castle in Kilmarnock, Scotland. For Mr Aird, attending his daughter’s wedding wasn’t just a special occasion, it was a moment filled with love, pride, and precious memories in the making. Thanks to Diane’s dedication, he didn’t miss a second of it. Travelling to Scotland the evening before, Diane stayed overnight to ensure she was ready for the big day. By 8am, she was at the castle to greet Mr Aird, ensuring he felt comfortable and cared for throughout the day. After sharing breakfast together, Diane helped Mr Aird prepare for the occasion, supporting him to shower and get in his wedding suit, ready to celebrate his daughter’s special day.
His daughter later shared: "I will never forget seeing my dad dancing along on the dance floor pretty much all night long, and it really wouldn’t have been possible without Diane. As a family, we are immeasurably grateful. My dad also added, 'I hope Diane had a good night too!'” Diane‘s thoughtful approach ensured Mr Aird felt confident and included in every special moment. She stayed overnight again to safely accompany Mr Aird home to Warrington the following morning. Reflecting on the weekend, his daughter added: "Can I just say an absolutely huge thank you for everything you did this weekend? My dad had an amazing time, and it was all made possible by you coming to take care of him. Thank you so, so much!"
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The Monmouth branch held a successful team meeting with 15 members present. The focus was on our new Live-In Care service, discussing its impact and ways to improve it within the community. The team also reviewed feedback and explored areas to improve. Additionally, anniversaries and recent promotions were celebrated.
A busy month full of team meetings
The Cannock team had a fantastic team meeting. It was a great opportunity to bring everyone together and discuss how to continue providing our customers a great service. A big thank you to all who attended, and a special mention to their newest team member who is just 2 weeks old! The team always loves celebrating the incredible work our carers do, and they’re already looking forward to the next get-together.
Team Derby had a fantastic day sharing customer feedback, lessons learned, and discussing ways to improve their work. To accommodate as many carers as possible, the training room was rearranged to host two full sessions. Onwards and upwards for Team Derby!
The Taunton team are still smiling after their team meeting, Easter eggs were handed out, adding an extra bit of fun to the day! It was a great chance for the team to connect and enjoy some lighthearted moments together.
The Stroud branch recently held a team meeting, bringing some of the team together for a catch-up over a cuppa and cake. A great opportunity to connect, share updates, and reflect on the fantastic work being done!
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World Health Day 7 April 2025
World Health Day is a reminder not only to reflect on the health of those we care for, but to take a moment to focus on our own well- being. We often put others first, but it’s crucial to remember that taking care of ourselves makes us better equipped to support others.
Take Breaks – Carers often have busy, demanding roles. Taking a few minutes to pause and recharge can make a huge difference.
World Health Day is celebrated every year on 7th April to raise awareness about global health issues and encourage people to take steps towards a healthier lifestyle. The day is organised by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and each year focuses on a specific health theme. For 2025, the theme will be centered around health equity, promoting equal access to healthcare for all, no matter where you live or your background.
Stay Active – Even light exercise, such as stretching or walking, helps boost mood and energy levels.
Eat Well – A balanced diet helps maintain energy and focus throughout the day.
Sleep – Rest is crucial. Quality sleep helps you recharge and stay healthy.
Talk About It – If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to get in touch and talk to someone you trust. It’s okay to ask for support.
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Tunbridge Wells Team
Do you know a Homecare Hero? We currently have Live-In customers who are ready and waiting for your help...
We’re excited to introduce the team that works behind the scenes at our Tunbridge Wells branch to ensure everything runs smoothly and our customers receive exceptional care. Stephanie Cook (Left) – Care Training Practitioner Steph has been with Helping Hands for three years, beginning as a carer before transitioning into her office role. She plays a key part in maintaining high standards of care, from mentoring new carers to ensuring the team is fully equipped with the knowledge and skills to support our customers. Meg Rooney (Middle) – Branch Registered Manager Meg joined Helping Hands over a year ago as a Live-in Manager and quickly moved into the Branch Registered Manager role. With her passion for care and leadership, Meg ensures the smooth running of the branch, continually improving our service and supporting the team to provide the best possible care. Samantha Ripley (Right) – Care Coordinator Sam, with five years at Helping Hands, is our Care Coordinator extraordinaire. After starting as a carer, Sam moved into this role and now ensures our carers are in the right place at the right time. Her organisational skills are essential to meeting the needs of our customers.
Is currently living in the UK and would love to help a customer live well at home Has a full UK driving licence (and is happy to drive) Enjoys making home cooked meals and is comfortable with animals Do you know someone who...
to recommend a Live-In Carer
Fancy earning £250 ?
If you recommend a Live-in carer (who successfully completes their first 12-weeks in placement), you’ll get £250 - this will be paid into your Care Friends app. Just scan the QR code to share your recommendation - simple! For more information: Please contact recruitmentlive-in@helpinghands.co.uk
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Gardening
Get your hands dirty and involve the whole family in gardening activities. Planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables not only provides physical activity but also fosters a sense of responsibility and appreciation for nature.
Bike Rides
Spring is in full bloom, and what better way to embrace the season than by staying active with your loved ones? As the weather warms up and nature comes to life, there are countless opportunities to engage in fun and enjoyable activities that promote health and well-being for the whole family. Here are some ideas to keep you and your loved ones active this spring:
Dust off your bicycle and go for a family bike ride around your neighbourhood or along scenic bike paths. Cycling is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors while getting a great cardio workout.
Family Picnics
Yoga or Tai Chi
Pack a picnic basket and head to your local park or green space for a day of outdoor dining. Bring along games like a
Practice yoga or tai chi as a family to improve flexibility, balance, and mindfulness. Choose a peaceful outdoor setting like a park or garden and connect with nature while rejuvenating your body and mind.
frisbee or cards to keep everyone moving and entertained. Nature Walks
Explore local trails, nature reserves, or botanical gardens and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.
By incorporating these fun and enjoyable activities into your spring routine, you and your loved ones can create lasting memories while prioritising health and well-being. So, get outside, soak up the sunshine, and make the most of this beautiful season!
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Clinical team
‘It was a pleasure to see you again for the Live-in carer's clinical induction by you. I so appreciated your previous visit and your breadth of knowledge & experience as I have been supporting my husband without much outside help. I learnt a lot & your input resulted in an immediate replacement of faulty equipment as well. You made me see the value I brought to my husband's care, but that I needed to look after myself. It was handy that your first visit came just before my Independent Review to an NHS panel. I was able to use the information needed confidently and as a result the 100% CHC was restored and care costs to be met for the intervening year.’ N Gibbon (Wife of HH Customer) We know how important your role as a carer is, and our clinical team is here to support you every step of the way. We’ll make sure you have the skills and knowledge to confidently manage your customers medical needs. Our nurses provide training on essential clinical tasks like pressure care, medication administration, and more advanced procedures such as PEG care. We offer both online and in-person training, along with refresher courses to help you keep your skills up to date. We also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure we deliver the highest quality care and support. Our clinical team works closely with carers to make sure every customer receives consistent, personalised care. Through regular check-ins, care reviews, and home visits, we stay connected and ensure care plans are working well. This helps keep our customers safe and supported at all times. In our next edition, we'll take a deeper look into our clinical team and get to know them a little better. Be sure to keep an eye out for the May edition!
At Helping Hands, our clinical team plays an important role in ensuring customers with clinical needs can live safely and independently at home. Here's a quick insight into how the clinical team supports carers, in delivering the best care possible.
The clinical team is dedicated to creating nurse led care, with a focus on customer safety. Our experienced registered nurses assess each individual’s clinical needs and create personalised care plans. These plans promote safety, independence, and choice for both customers and carers. Delivering high-quality Care
Clinical governance is all about keeping our customers safe and making sure they receive the best possible care. It means following a clear framework that focuses on continuous improvement and high-quality, safe support. If someone needs help with a clinical intervention, one of our trained nurses will be there to assess their needs, manage any risks, and provide training. They’ll also be on hand to offer guidance, advice, and ongoing support to ensure the best care at home. Supporting customers
We offer more than just standard domiciliary care, we provide specialised support for those with clinical needs. Our nurses provide hands-on training, guidance, and reassurance for both customers and their families. By regularly assessing care quality and safety, we help ensure customers receive the best possible support.
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Taking time to reflect In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget to check in with ourselves. Easter gives us the chance to reflect on how we’re feeling and what we need. It doesn’t have to be anything big sometimes just taking a moment to breathe, have a cup of tea, or step outside for some fresh air can help you feel refreshed and ready for the days ahead. Setting simple intentions This season of renewal is a great time to set small, achievable goals for yourself. You don’t have to change everything at once, sometimes just focusing on one thing, like getting more rest or making time for a hobby, can make a big difference in how you feel day-to-day. Enjoying the simple pleasures Easter is also about enjoying the simple things, whether it’s eating some chocolate, spending time with family, or simply taking a moment to relax. These little joys can help us recharge and remind us why it’s so important to take care of ourselves while caring for others.
As Easter approaches, it’s a great opportunity to take a step back, slow down, and focus on the things that matter most. As carers, you give so much of yourself to others, and this season reminds us all to pause and take care of ourselves, too.
Top rated Easter eggs for 2025
Click here to read the reviews and where you can buy the Easter eggs
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"Exceptional care" The care my dad has received from Helping Hands been exceptional. The office team are always on hand to talk to if we have any concerns. The individual carers are passionate about the level of care they deliver & always have my dad's needs at the centre of everything they do on a daily basis. - Jeffery "Really helpful tips" Following a difficult decision that it is time to find some external help for my Nan I decided I was going to spend the morning phoning around local private care firms to look at what's available. Helping Hands was the first company I called and I need to look no further - Louise was amazing on the phone, answering all my questions as well as offering me lots of really helpful tips in order to assist with our care for my nan. I have an assessment booked for a couple of days time :) - Ellie
Five Star Feedback
“Professional” Helping Hands have been professional and caring without exception in caring for my wife with Dementia. There are difficult times and also happy times with the carers. The illness causes changes to my wife and whatever happens, my wife ends up smiling and happy with their care. Thank you to all staff in their care and patience. - Alan
"Caring, reliable and professional" My assessment for home care was carried out in a professional and friendly manner. I felt very comfortable throughout the assessment and particularly liked the way my friend was included both in the details I gave about myself and the conversation
"Very pleased with Helping Hands" Very helpful and nearly always arrive on time. Been looking after my Mum for nearly 3 years now. Would definitely recommend. - Jane
in general. - Margaret
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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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GET TO KNOW THE PAYROLL TEAM Let’s be honest, payday is everyone’s favourite time of the month. But have you ever wondered who is behind making sure that you get paid on time? It’s time to pull back the curtain and get to know a few of the fantastic Payroll Team here! From number crunching to night owl habits, our payroll stars have a lot more going on than just spreadsheets! 💼 Role: Sam Hegarty, Payroll Administrator 📅 Day in the life: Sam is all about precision, assisting with payroll calculations and making sure carers get paid correctly. 🏆 Best career advice: “Find something you love doing, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” 🐶 Fun fact: He’s got a five-year-old pug named Millie who, if given the chance, would probably take over payroll duties herself. 🥤 Go-to drink: A good old-fashioned strong tea with one sugar. No fuss, just business. 🤯 Unexpected moment: Once had a night out with WWE wrestler Sheamus!
💼 Name: Louise Jones, Payroll Manager 📅 Day in the life: Managing the new payroll system launch, rate changes, and end-of-tax-year planning. 🐶 Hobbies: Walks, socialising with friends, and spending time with a French Bulldog. ☕ Go-to drink: Tea – no sugar, not too milky! 🎬 Favourite book & films: Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella & most Disney movies! 👑 Historical dinner guest: Marilyn Monroe – a true icon! 📍 Fun fact: Born in Bristol – West Country roots! 🎡 Dream trip: Tokyo DisneySea – because Disney magic never gets old! 💼 Amy Dean: Payroll Officer 📅 Day in the life: Working on new and improved payroll reports and checks. 🎮 Hobbies: Anime and gaming – Naruto is a favourite! 👑 Historical dinner guest: Princess Diana – because who wouldn’t want a chat with royalty? 🏎 Fun fact: Broke her leg quad bike racing at age 12. No fear, all adrenaline! 🐱 Pets: Two cats, Winry and Phoebe – probably plotting world domination together. 🗾 Dream trip: Japan – anime, technology, and sushi heaven!
New payroll system coming 14 April We'll be moving to a new payroll provider that will offer you easy access to your pay documents anytime and anywhere. Watch out for more details soon...
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People with autism bring unique talents, perspectives, and skills that enrich the world around them. While each individual is different, many share positive traits that set them apart: Attention to detail Many individuals with autism have a keen eye for the smallest details, excelling in areas like research, design, and problem- solving, where precision is key. Creativity and innovation Their unique way of thinking can lead to remarkable creativity, whether in art, music, writing, or technology, bringing fresh ideas and new perspectives to various industries. Honesty and integrity Known for their straightforwardness and loyalty, individuals with autism often have a strong sense of honesty and integrity, fostering trust and enriching relationships. Strong memory and focus With excellent memory and an ability to focus on tasks they’re passionate about, people with autism often master complex skills and become experts in their fields. Problem-solving skills Their non-linear thinking often leads to innovative solutions that others may overlook, making them valuable problem- solvers in technical or scientific fields.
April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to support, and celebrate the unique contributions of individuals with autism. This month is an opportunity to reflect on how people with autism make a positive impact in our communities, workplaces, and families.
Get Involved! Check out the National Autistic Society website to see how you can get involved and make a difference.
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“Jo consistently goes above and beyond for our customers, always delivering exceptional care. She has also taken on additional training to further develop her skills, which shines through in the support she provides. Well done, Jo – your dedication and kindness make such a difference, and we’re so proud to have you as part of the team!”
Our Moments of Kindness scheme celebrates our team 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…
"Louise, your compassion and dedication shine through in every moment of care you provide. Your support is a lifeline for Pat, Kathleen, and Tony, enabling them to maintain their independence and dignity in their own home."
A huge congratulations to our wonderful carer, Sharon, for being recognised in this month’s Moments of Kindness! Her dedicated care, compassion, and unwavering support made a real difference to a very poorly customer and their loved ones during a difficult time.
Sharon
If you would like to nominate one of your colleagues simply visit: helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/momentsofkindness
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Congratulations to Lynne Phillips from our Monmouth branch - our Moments of Kindness winner! Lynne’s compassion, dedication, and support make a real difference to both customers and colleagues.
Adele Raine has has received a Moments of Kindness for being efficient and knowledgeable on care calls. Customer loved her kindness.
If you would like to nominate one of your colleagues simply visit: helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/mo mentsofkindness
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SERVICE YEARS OF
5 YEARS Vicky
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
Debbie
10 YEARS
Whether you work in the Support Office, or you are a Helping Hands professional carer, we want to recognise everyone across the business for their dedication and hard work. Email peoplenews@helpinghands.co.uk so we can share your success!
Jolanta
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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HOT CROSS BUN MUFFIN
Ingredients
225g unsalted butter (at room temperature) 200g light muscovado sugar 150g ground almonds 100g buckwheat flour 1 teaspoon ground mixed spice 1½ teaspoons gluten-free baking powder ¼ teaspoon sea salt
1 large orange 3 large free-range eggs (at room temperature) 175g mixed dried fruit (ideally with candied orange in it) 50g dried cranberries 1 eating apple (125g) 100g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting
Method
Heat the oven to 180C/gas mark 4. Line two muffin trays with paper cases or squares of baking paper. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric beater until pale and fluffy. Combine the almonds, flour, mixed spice, baking powder and salt in a bowl, then sift it on top of the creamed butter and sugar. Add the orange zest, 3 tablespoons of the juice and the eggs to the bowl as well. Beat everything together until you have a thick batter, then stir in the dried fruit, cranberries and apple. Dollop the mixture into the muffin cases so they’re three-quarters full. Bake for 35 minutes, then turn down the heat to 160C/gas 3 and bake for a further 20 to 25 minutes, until the muffins are well risen and golden, and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 15 minutes, then remove to a rack to cool completely. Gradually mix the icing sugar with 4-5 teaspoons of the orange juice to make a thick icing. Spoon into a piping bag with a round nozzle, or into a sandwich bag, snipping off one corner. Pipe crosses onto each muffin.
1 hour
Easy
24 servings
SERVES 4
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Easter Egg Hunt Competition
For a little bit of in this month's magazine, we've hidden Easter egg icons throughout the pages, can you spot them all? How to Enter: Carefully look through the magazine and count how many yellow Easter eggs have been hidden! Below is the egg to find.
Egg hunt
Send your answer to peoplenews@helpinghands.co.uk with the subject "Easter Egg Hunt" and the number of eggs. Deadline to enter: 16 April 2025
This month’s prize is a Cadbury Easter egg hamper basket Good Luck!
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