St Luke’s Skills for Care Finalist

Community Integrated Care was proud to be shortlisted for a prestigious Skills for Care Accolade, at a glittering ceremony which took place at Birmingham’s Hilton Metropole.

Our shortlisting for the ‘Most effective approach to integration and new models of care’ award comes as a result of our thriving partnership with Halton CCG and Halton Borough Council, which has saw us collectively transform a formerly tired and in-danger care home, St Luke’s in Runcorn, into a centre of excellence.

The Skills for Care’s Accolades, which were hosted by Coronation Street star Jennie McAlpine, celebrate the achievements of organisations committed to boosting the skills and knowledge of the adult social care workforce. Skills for Care is the strategic body for workforce development in adult social care in England.

Now in its 13th year, the Accolades finalists shortlist is an mix of employers, training providers, local authorities and individual employers who have all demonstrated an innovative approach to developing learning and development opportunities for the 1.5m strong adult social care workforce in England.

This innovative integrated approach helps local people who live with dementia to enjoy happier, healthier and more independent lives. St Luke’s is now the hub of integrated health and social care for people with the most advanced and complex dementia needs in Halton. It has also reduced demand on local health services and hospitals – helping the local NHS to use its resources more effectively.

Last year, St Luke’s enjoyed a £250,000 jointly funded refurbishment – transforming a tired environment, into something far more welcoming, stimulating and dementia-friendly. This has included the opening of a cinema, pub, seaside-themed room, indoor gardens and 1950’s kitchen – creating tranquil, stimulating and interesting places throughout the home.

By working creatively with partners, St Luke’s has been able to develop new ways for residents to lead active lives – accessing reminiscence sessions hosted by Widnes Vikings Rugby Club, and participating in a literature project with The Reader Organisation which saw volunteers reading classic poetry and stories to residents.

Dave Sweeney, Director of Transformation for NHS Halton CCG and Halton Local Authority, says: “The recognition St Luke’s has received from the care sector and public in recent years is well deserved – celebrating a care home with a fantastic environment and colleagues who are dedicated to its residents.”

“NHS Halton Clinical Commissioning Group and Halton Borough Council provide an integrated approach to health and social care. This has supported St Luke’s, providing them with the support and resources they need to provide excellent care. In turn, the team at St Luke’s have worked really hard to deliver an excellent service.”

“Cath Murray-Howard, Community Integrated Care’s Deputy CEO, says: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this top honour, amongst the other outstanding organisations here tonight.”

“St Luke’s is a model for modern dementia care – it is truly deserving of such recognition. By working closely with NHS Halton CCG and Halton Borough Council, we have been able to create an innovative approach that ensures that people receive all the support they need in the care home. This has not only changed the lives of residents, but made a significant impact on the local community.”