Mildenhall Lodge is shortlisted for multiple awards

Home news

Jun 04, 2018

Mildenhall Lodge is celebrating after being shortlisted for a number of national and regional awards. 

Mildenhall Lodge has been shortlisted in the Best Single Care Home in a Group category at the Care Home Awards 2018 and for three Suffolk Care Awards. 

The Care Home Awards are held annually to celebrate the very best people in the long-term care sector, culminating in an awards ceremony on Wednesday 27^th June. The 17 categories highlight excellence within the care sector, and reward those who work tirelessly to provide consistently outstanding care.

The nomination discusses the care home’s recent ‘outstanding’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the pride the team has in the care home. It was noted that residents are empowered to be involved in all aspects of running the home, not least the ‘resident ambassador’, Jean Fincham, who listens to feedback from the other residents and communicates their thoughts to the team. 

The home has also implemented a ‘dot voting’ system on a notice board, whereby topics such as the Christmas party or meal timings are discussed and voted on by the residents. The most exciting decision for many residents was the introduction of the Mildenhall Lodge pet, a rescue dog named Sinbad who can often be found in the care home’s coffee shop making new friends and spending time with residents. 

The home manager, Katy Hughes, who was described by the CQC as an ‘outstanding leader,’ has set up a number of initiatives to benefit the residents. One of these is the Twilight club, which is designed for residents living with dementia who often have irregular sleep patterns. The club enables residents to spend time with the Care UK team, enjoying a hot drink and a conversation whatever the time of night. 

In addition to receiving a national award nomination, Mildenhall Lodge has also been shortlisted in three categories at the Suffolk Care Awards: Promoting Dignity and Respect in Everyday Life, Culture, Creativity and Activities, and Inspiring Leaders and Managers. 

Home manager at Mildenhall Lodge, Katy Hughes, said: “It’s been such a fantastic year for us here at Mildenhall Lodge, and these nominations truly are the icing on the cake. 

“I am so proud of the team’s hard work and dedication in making Mildenhall Lodge the home-from-home it is today, and ensuring that everyone has a positive experience, whether they are a relative, resident or visitor.  

“We’ve all had a huge smile on our faces since we were named as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC at the start of the year, and winning these awards would keep us all grinning for a while longer!”