'Making sure that all residents are well looked after and feel safe' is at the centre of a care assistant's role, according to Naomi Chedzoy who's been doing that job at Doveleigh Care for 15 months.

Naomi joined during the start of the Covid-19 pandemic last year, meaning her whole time in the job has involved all the additional work and routines involved in keeping the homes infection-free.

But that hasn't stopped her from enjoying the personal satisfaction of a caring role, with the added benefits of supportive colleagues and management.

Naomi said her day-to-day tasks are varied. "I assist residents with the personal care provided for them, assist with their meals and drinks if required, assist with their toileting needs, making sure all the residents are happy and comfortable, making sure laundry is being kept up to date, making sure all residents rooms are treated respectfully and kept clutter free, most importantly that all residents are well looked after and feel safe.

"I enjoy everything about my job, but most importantly I love sitting down and chatting to the residents, keeping them occupied and building good relationships with all residents.

"I feel supported by my manager and my colleagues, as they're always helping me out if I need anything, and always reassure me if I have any questions about anything. Working as a team is always supportive as you know you all have each other. I feel valued by Doveleigh Care with all the little gifts and 'thank-you' presents we get. It's also lovely to hear 'well done' or 'you're doing a great job' - it keeps me motivated and makes me feel appreciated."

Senior Manager, Samantha Evens, said making staff feel valued is a key part of her job.

"We believe that if we look after our staff, they will look after our residents. All staff work extremely hard, so a little 'thank you' goes a long way.

"One of our staff felt we would benefit from having logo'd lanyards to promote their additional ambassador roles. So the director agreed and purchased these.

"We have little hampers, staff wellbeing boxes filled with treats like sweets, snacks, lip balms, hand cream, face masks and therapy adult colouring. We have a monthly bonus scheme, and when staff go that extra mile we reward them with chocolates, wine, vouchers. We like to celebrate staff birthdays, when they get a home-made cake of their choice.

"We have recently started an 'employee of the month' at Doveridge ((Doveleigh Care's residential home in Colyton) where staff pick who deserves this title that month. At Dove Court (Seaton) and Arcot House (Sidmouth), they do a monthly reward scheme called 'you've been mugged'. They receive a mug full of their favourite treats and gifts. We are looking forward to booking some teambuilding events as restrictions ease."

Doveleigh Care currently has vacancies for care assistants. If you're interested in joining an outstanding team, please contact [email protected] or call 01297 23278.