Learning beyond the lecture hall: How Rubislaw Park Care Home and Aberdeen University are shaping person-centred care
Rubislaw Park Care Home has been proud to work in partnership with the University of Aberdeen for over a year, welcoming medical students into the home as part of a community-based education initiative that places people, not just conditions, at the heart of learning.
The programme, which has now successfully entered its second year, gives medical students the opportunity to spend time within a care home environment, gaining insight into person-centred, relationship-based care. By stepping outside traditional clinical and hospital settings, students develop a deeper understanding of supporting older adults, including those living with dementia or mobility needs, and the importance of trust, communication, and continuity in care.
At Rubislaw Park Care Home, care is built around truly knowing each individual, their life history, preferences, communication style, and what matters most to them. By spending time with residents in a familiar and supportive environment, students see first-hand how strong relationships allow changes in wellbeing or behaviour to be recognised early and understood in context, reinforcing lessons that simply cannot be taught in textbooks.
Students are fully welcomed into the life of the home and actively encouraged to take part rather than observe from the sidelines. From joining residents during the much-loved Happy Hour, to participating in activities such as quizzes, choir practice, and movement sessions including Zumba, the shared experiences create natural conversation, laughter, and genuine connection.
Home Manager, Kayleigh Chisolm comments, ‘We have thoroughly enjoyed welcoming the medical students to Rubislaw Park. It is genuinely touching to witness the meaningful connections that form between the students and our residents. The students gain invaluable insight, compassion, and experience, while our residents take great pride in sharing their stories, wisdom, and warmth. It’s a partnership that enriches both sides, and we are grateful to play a part in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.’
Residents have warmly embraced the initiative, sharing stories from their lives that span careers, family memories, hobbies, favourite music, and reflections on how life has changed over the years. Many residents also have professional backgrounds in healthcare, creating a powerful exchange of lived experience. Their involvement allows them to share insight, wisdom, and encouragement with students at the beginning of their careers, reinforcing a strong sense of purpose, dignity, and continued contribution.
For residents, the visits provide meaningful social interaction and the reassurance that their voices and experiences continue to matter. For students, the programme offers invaluable insight into the social and emotional aspects of care, highlighting the vital role of empathy, communication, and human connection alongside clinical knowledge.
Rubislaw Park Care Home staff play a key role throughout the programme, modelling compassionate, inclusive care and supporting both residents and students to feel confident and valued. The welcoming environment reflects the home’s commitment to dignity, wellbeing, and best practice, closely aligned with Care Inspectorate principles.
The partnership began last year as a pilot initiative and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from residents, staff, and students alike. Its continuation into a second year reflects a shared commitment between Rubislaw Park Care Home and the University of Aberdeen to collaborative learning, excellence in care, and the development of well-rounded future clinicians.
This initiative highlights the University of Aberdeen’s recognition that great doctors are shaped not only by clinical expertise, but by empathy, understanding, and meaningful human relationships. For Rubislaw Park, it demonstrates an ongoing commitment to community engagement, person-centred care, and meaningful activity, enriching daily life for residents while helping to shape the future of healthcare.
It is a partnership that benefits everyone involved, and one that Rubislaw Park Care Home hopes to continue as a valued tradition for many years to come.
Special tartan makes unique – not-so-red-red – rose for care homes’ Burns’ Night
Like many, BCG care homes celebrated Burns’ Night with a series of glorious suppers this past weekend. But, uniquely, in addition to the customary feast of haggis, neeps and tatties, and tributes to the bard – from pipers and highland dancers, folk singing and poem recitals – the leading Scottish care provider bedecked each home with rare, everlasting commemorative roses, created especially for the occasion.
Using their BCG Intergenerational Tartan, originally designed and developed for the care provider in a joyful collaboration between Perth home, North Inch’s residents, and school children from Balhousie Primary School, Perth – before it closed and joined the new Riverside Primary School – each home was presented with a vase of tartan roses in time to decorate their celebrations.
Now, the tartan exists in every one of the homes, in a number of forms, beautifully symbolic of their intergenerational connections.
Karen Johnson, Managing Director at BCG, explains:
"Our tartan project began pre-pandemic and was designed in a very special intergenerational project, across the ages, with our North Inch residents and local primary pupils. It’s officially registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans as the Balhousie Intergenerational Tartan.
"We then had a full bale of the tartan woven, and since, have had one-of-a-kind commemorative items create for the homes at Christmastime: table runners, tree decorations, and cushions.
“This year, with the help of our friends at Strathmore Woollen Co. in Forfar, we wanted to share something a little different and specifically for Burns’ Night: not exactly the Bard’s ‘Red, Red Rose’, but our own version, to decorate our homes' Burns’ celebrations."
World War 2 veteran honoured on her 102nd birthday
A World War Two veteran who played a supporting role in Britain’s wartime intelligence efforts has been honoured as she marked her 102nd birthday.
Doctor Jean Munro, a resident at Lynemore Care Home in Grantown on Spey, was a member of Hut 6 at Bletchley Park, the team responsible for deciphering German Army and Air Force Enigma messages.
Earlier this year, Dr Munro took part in a podcast to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. In it, she revealed that she was unable to share details of her top-secret work with family and friends until the 1980s.
Historians believe that breaking the Enigma code may have shortened the war by two to four years, potentially saving hundreds of thousands of lives. “I never thought of it that way, but if I think about it now, I think I’m really glad,” she says.
In recognition of her service, Dr Munro has been awarded the Freedom of Bletchley Park, a rare honour conferred by the Bletchley Park Trust, and presented with a specially made Veteran’s pin badge.
Pamela Cummings, manager of Lynemore Care Home, said: “We feel deeply honoured to have celebrated not only this milestone birthday, but also the presentation of such an incredible honour in recognition of Jean’s vital work as a codebreaker at Bletchley Park. It was an emotional occasion to share this double celebration with Jean and her loved ones. She is a remarkable lady and a much-loved part of the Lynemore family.”
Dr Jean Munro was born in 1923 and raised in London by Scottish parents. She studied at a university in London and later completed a PhD at Edinburgh University. A distinguished historian and author, she held senior roles with several leading heritage organisations, among them the Scottish History Society, the Scottish Local History Forum, the Scottish Genealogy Society, the National Trust for Scotland and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. She also served as President of The Grantown Society.
To listen to the VE Day podcast featuring Jean Munro, visit podfollow.com/parklands
Keeping Traditions Alive
Christmas is rarely one-size-fits-all. For many older people, the season is a tapestry of family recipes, favourite carols, table rituals and small customs that carry a lifetime of meaning. For care homes, helping residents keep those threads alive isn’t just sentimental, it’s central to wellbeing, identity and genuinely person-centred care. We look at practical ways care homes can weave residents’ personal traditions into communal celebrations, and why doing so pays dividends for mood, memory and community.
Traditions anchor identity. Research and practitioners agree: familiar smells, songs and rituals unlock memories, soothe anxiety and spark conversation. For residents living with dementia, a traditional mince pie recipe or the scent of orange and clove can prompt a smile, a story or a meaningful connection with staff and visitors. Beyond individual benefits, shared traditions strengthen the home’s social life - families recognise and appreciate cultural sensitivity, and staff morale lifts when they see residents engaged and joyful.
There are an array of simple ways to adapt personal traditions. Start with the conversations and spend time asking residents (and families) about their Christmases. A quick “What did December look like in your childhood?” can reveal treasured foods, religious observances, songs or small rituals, such as opening one gift on Christmas Eve or placing a sprig of holly on the table. Record these details in residents’ care plans so they inform every year’s celebration.
Food is a powerful memory trigger. Where possible, incorporate residents’ favourite dishes into the menu. If a resident grew up with a Glasgow-style Christmas pudding, a small portion served alongside the main lunch can be immensely meaningful. For residents with dietary or religious needs, adapt recipes (e.g., vegetarian, sugar-free) while keeping the familiar flavours. Consider themed communal lunches or a “Caribbean Christmas” roast one evening, based on residents’ backgrounds.
Christmas carol sessions are a staple, but make the playlist personal. Ask which hymns, carols or seasonal tunes residents remember. Invite families or local choirs to perform community-specific songs. For residents with limited mobility, provide lyric sheets with large print and encourage hand-held percussion to make participation easier.
Décor needn’t be generic. Display ornaments or keepsakes that reflect residents’ histories: vintage postcards, a family nativity set, or craft displays made with residents’ grandchildren. Create a “tradition tree” where each resident pins a card describing a long-held custom; by reading them aloud at breakfast or during carol sessions you create a living archive.
Preserving small rituals is key: a resident who always opened a door for guests can be given a “welcoming” role during a lunch; someone who loved handing out homemade crackers might lead a table. Even structured times - specific days for mince pies, carol practice schedules - support comfort through routine.
You can look to invite families to bring recipes, ornaments or a recording of a family carol. Local schools, scouts or faith groups often welcome intergenerational visits and these also give residents an opportunity to share traditions and feel valued.
Benefits for the care home
- Improved mood and engagement: When celebrations reflect residents’ lives, participation rises. Engaged residents show fewer signs of anxiety and social withdrawal.
- Stronger family relationships: Families who see their loved ones recognised are more likely to visit and support the home, improving reputation and community ties.
- Enhanced person-centred care: Documenting and delivering traditions demonstrates a meaningful, individualised approach — vital for CQC inspections and best practice evidence.
- Staff satisfaction and skills: Planning bespoke events challenges the team creatively and builds cultural competence, boosting morale.
Practical tips for busy homes
- Build a “Tradition File” for each resident in care records. Keep one-page summaries easy for agency staff to read.
- Designate a festive lead - a staff member or volunteer - to coordinate menus, playlists and family liaison.
- Use volunteers and students for craft sessions and to help record oral histories that staff can turn into posters or short videos (with consent).
- Keep accessibility front and centre: large-print lyrics, assisted seating at meals, and sensory-friendly spaces for residents who find crowds overwhelming.
Christmas is not just one day, it’s a season of stories. By listening, recording and adapting residents’ personal traditions, care homes create richer, more inclusive celebrations where people are seen for who they are. Whether it’s a slice of a childhood pudding or an old wartime carol, these small rituals bring joy, restore dignity and make the home feel more like home.
We Care Group and Summit Care Group bolster senior team with new COO and quality, governance and risk director
Leading care provider in the North of England, We Care Group and Summit Care Group, has appointed two new team members to strengthen its senior team as it embarks on a period of growth.
Jacqui Ritchie has been appointed chief operating officer, while Janine Graham has been appointed quality, governance and risk director. The two new recruits, who both started their roles at We Care Group this month, will be working closely to shape the group’s strategy and drive results.
The pair previously worked together at Four Seasons Health Care Group, where they achieved outstanding results in improving care quality and employee engagement – the highest results ever achieved at the group.
With over 30 years of experience in the health and social care sector, Jacqui started her career as an Intensive Care nurse in the NHS, then with Nuffield Health before moving into senior roles at BMI Healthcare. Jacqui then spent eight years at Four Seasons Health Care Group, where she has most recently worked as chief operating officer. With a proven track record in delivering financial and clinical results, she is looking forward to working with the team to build upon the success already achieved.
Janine, meanwhile, has worked in the sector for more than 20 years, primarily focusing on quality improvement. Having worked at Four Seasons Healthcare Group for the last 13 years in roles including head of care quality Scotland & North, and most recently national head of quality and governance, she won the 2024 Quality Assurance Leaders in Care Award and improved regulatory outcomes that were above sector average.
Speaking about her new role, Jacqui said:
“I’m passionate about residents getting the care they need and about families being included at every stage, and this is exactly what We Care Group and Summit Care Group are about. There’s a real family feel at the group and these values are instilled in every part of the business – from our care homes through to every team member. It’s a pleasure to be part of the team and to be working with Janine once again, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve.”
Janine said:
“We Care Group is extremely forward thinking, open to change, and tech-savvy, so it’s an exciting time to work on strategy and embrace growth. Effective teamwork is all about problem solving and communicating effectively – Jacqui and I share this approach, so we’re looking forward to replicating our previous success in our new roles. I already feel like part of the We Care Group and Summit Care Group family after such a short space of time, and I’m excited to make a difference to the lives of our residents.”
Bernie Suresparan, founder of We Care Group, said: “Both Jacqui and Janine have a huge amount of experience and are well-respected figures in the industry, so I’m delighted to have them on board. Their expertise is going to be invaluable as We Care Group and Summit Care Group continues to grow and evolve, and I’m looking forward to working with them both.”
We Care Group and Summit Care Group are an award-winning specialist care provider with a long-standing reputation for providing outstanding person-centred care to residents across the North and Northwest of England, helping residents to live with dignity, choice and independence.
BCG Brookfield champions falls prevention thanks to new innovations
A Carnoustie care home is getting ahead of the curve and finding new ways to support residents prone to falls thanks to a collaborative initiative with Angus Health & Social Care Partnership (HSCP). The project, identified as an opportunity to promote the group’s drive for continuous improvement, by BCG Brookfield Home Manager, Tina Harris, has significantly enhanced resident fall safety since first being trialled last autumn.
Tina was eager to collaborate with Angus HSCP Senior Nurse for Care Homes, Kay Gray and Angus Falls Service Coordinator, Paul Kelly, to additionally introduce a set of enhanced preventative measures between October 2024 and January 2025, which are now embedded as a part of the home's everyday practice. As a result, the home has been delighted to see a further 57% drop in falls per quarter.
To get there, the Brookfield team completed a specialised NHS Education for Scotland module, called Falls, Frailty and Bone Health – Prevention and Management, and also earned their SSSC Open Badge Physiotherapy in Care Settings – Walking Aids. Each resident also underwent a Multifactorial Falls Risk Assessment, focusing on cognitive impairment and other individual risk factors, such as vision and hearing, foot health, and continence care.
The team then embedded strength and balance activities into residents' daily routines and introduced a Health Walks Corridor, to promote daily movement and overall wellbeing, in partnership with Angusalive. Brookfield’s increased clear reduction in falls during the first quarter of 2025 marks a trend which has been ongoing, and exactly what the team have worked towards.
Tina Harris, BCG Brookfield Home Manager, said: "We’re always looking for further initiatives that will support our determination for continuous improvement across BCG.
“At Brookfield, we are committed to doing everything we can to prevent falls and our teams work tirelessly to reduce risks. But of course, it’s important to acknowledge that falls remain a common concern in our residents. Age-related factors such as muscle weakness, balance difficulties, and changes in vision can increase vulnerability but we know many falls are preventable and wanted to do all we could to maximise that prevention.
“Our ongoing efforts focus not only on prevention, but on empowering our residents where possible with the knowledge and tools to stay safe, confident, and independent.
"The success of it really comes down to great collaboration and targeted intervention to improve outcomes for our residents. Our thanks go to Kay and Paul for supporting our drive for greater falls prevention. One year in and we've continued to monitor fall trends every month, maintaining the use of this valuable joint project.”
Tracy McDonald, BCG Operations Director, added: “I’m so proud of all our teams for the care and attention they bring to fall prevention every single day. For Brookfield especially, taking this extra step to focus on what is a central priority in our day-to-day care. It’s great to have the data to show how their commitment is making a real difference. It’s that blend of compassion and vigilance that helps keep our homes safe.”
Kay Gray, Angus HSCP Senior Nurse for Care Homes, said: “Part of our roles with the Angus HSCP involves providing support and education to care homes. This is a great example of some focused work we supported. Brookfield were willing volunteers to take part in this pilot where we encouraged and supported the use of a variety of resources. The resources used supported a reduction in risk of falls and encouraged analysis for residents that had sustained a fall. This resulted in good outcomes for residents and highlighted the importance of falls awareness being part of everyone’s role. We look forward to working within other care homes within Angus.
“To support the sharing of this work, we have produced a poster which will be on display across NHS Tayside as part of the NHS Tayside Celebrating Tayside event.”
BCG gets behind ‘Stop the Pressure’ week
This week, Scottish care home provider BCG got behind the ‘Stop the Pressure’ campaign – an important movement which seeks to minimise the pressure sores that can blight the health of anyone, particularly the elderly.
They were joined by NHS Multidisciplinary Teams, wound care partners, and pressure-relieving equipment specialists – all coming together to share insights, spark conversations, and strengthen collective knowledge.
Lori Fisher, Service Quality Manager at BCG says: “The goal of Stop the Pressure is to prevent pressure ulcers, which are skin and tissue injuries caused by prolonged pressure. The campaign focuses on raising awareness of prevention methods, such as changing positions regularly, protecting vulnerable skin areas, and making use of support surfaces.
""We want the very best of health for our residents and this week of activity is a prime example of the steps we're taking to safeguard it."
Pressure injuries are preventable, however, they remain one of the most common challenges in healthcare today.
The Society of Tissue Viability, who devised the campaign, say: "Pressure ulcers don't discriminate. They can affect newborn babies to those at the end of life - across every type of care setting: at home, in hospital, or in care homes. People frequently move between settings, so it's essential every point of care offers consistent, well-communicated, evidence-based support."
“Cherished” Stewart crowned Emerging Talent winner at Scottish Care Home Awards
BCG, one of Scotland’s leading care home providers, are delighted to share that Stewart Leslie, a much-admired member of their team, was the winner of the Scottish Care Home Awards’ Emerging Talent category at a glittering ceremony held in Glasgow this past Friday, 14 November.
Stewart, the Maintenance Officer at Rumbling Bridge nursing home (RBNH), faced stiff competition to take home the award from the annual celebration, widely regarded as the leading standard of excellence in the care sector. The awards celebrate the commitment and hard work of care providers, individual carers, and their teams across Scotland.
Stewart has excelled since joining RBNH last year, coming to the home without any previous experience in the sector. Moving into care has been transformative for the former military chef and HGV lorry driver.
Stewart Leslie says: “I was so proud just to be nominated, but winning this award feels absolutely incredible. Since starting at the home last spring, I’ve found it’s a genuine privilege to help create and maintain a safe, comfortable environment for our residents. I’ve a real fondness for them and my role brings me so much fulfilment. This is for my team too. Working alongside them is an honour.”
Morag Shea, Home Manager at BCG Rumbling Bridge, adds: “Whether he’s fixing the smallest detail or building a giant ball pool for residents to enjoy, Stewart pours creativity and dedication into everything he does. He’s a true innovator, always eager to bring fresh ideas to life with skill and heart. His passion shines through daily, and it’s no surprise he’s become our go-to for compliance, always going the extra mile to make a difference.”
Joining Stewart in the same category was Kirsty Fairer, Home Administrator at BCG Stormont Lodge care home in Blairgowrie. In addition, Svetlana Marici, Deputy Manager at BCG Pitlochry, earned a runner-up spot in the Leadership category.
Karen Johnson, Managing Director at BCG, said: “It was lovely to be represented by three finalists in this year’s awards. Hearty congratulations go to Stewart on his win. We’re all so very happy and proud that his tireless dedication has been highlighted as a shining beacon for Emerging Talent. With his all-in commitment and motivational personality, he has become a cherished part of the Rumbling Bridge team's DNA. In his Compliance Lead role, he’s become a well-known part of the wider BCG team and a fantastic ambassador.”
BCG was also proud to sponsor the prestigious Service of the Year Award, which was won by Abbotsford Care Home in Ardrossan.
The Scottish Care Home Awards 2025 took place at Glasgow Hilton on Friday, 14 November. They were hosted by Michelle McManus and Dr Donald Macaskill. Stewart was in attendance with colleagues from across BCG.
Enhancing Safety
We explore how enhanced safety measures, such as Pinpoint’s advanced staff and patient alarm systems, are helping care homes safeguard both residents and carers while improving overall quality of care.
Care homes play an essential role in looking after some of the most vulnerable members of society. With professional carers to hand and tailored facilities, care homes offer residents a supportive environment where they can maintain a degree of independence while receiving the medical care and professional assistance needed to live a healthy, fulfilling life.
Yet care home environments are not without risk. Data from the BMJ suggests care home residents are three times more likely to experience a fall, compared to those living in their own home. Equally, new research from the HSE reveals over 12,000 violent attacks have taken place against residential care staff in the last 10 years.
Such figures draw attention to the risks associated with care home facilities and the need for measures to enhance the safety of all those on site.
Addressing risks to staff
According to the Care Workers Charity, 85% of care home workers will experience violence from patients while on duty. While such aggressive behaviour is often unintentional, and instead the result of the individual’s health condition, medications and psychological state, it can have serious effects, including injury, low employee morale and high rates of staff turnover.
Given the often-unpredictable nature of this behaviour, advanced staff safety systems are a vital asset to protect both care staff and residents.
Pinpoint’s safety alarm systems enable employees to swiftly summon assistance when faced with challenging patient behaviour. With the simple press of a button on their person-worn alarm, care workers alert colleagues to the exact location and severity of an incident, eliciting an immediate response to intervene and offer support.
The speed and precision of these systems ensure high-risk incidents are swiftly de-escalated and harm averted. Taking mere milliseconds from alarm activation to information display, and with precise location technology, Pinpoint’s staff alarm system enables the response team to quickly de-escalate and disrupt hostile behaviour.
Optimising Patient Safety
The Pinpoint System is also utilised in non-violent incidents, such as a resident choking, falls or indeed, when an extra pair of hands is needed to carry out a task. Should a member of staff come across a patient in need of assistance during a routine check, they can use the System to quickly alert colleagues and receive the appropriate support.
These safety alarms are not only used by staff. Patients too can access Patient Call Buttons should they need additional assistance, for example, to get out of bed, in the event of an accident, or to access certain rooms on site. For residents who do not need 1-1 support, the presence of the Pinpoint System offers them the chance to live independently, while still able to access professional assistance quickly and easily.
The Pinpoint P2 System instils care home residents and staff alike with the peace of mind that their safety is the utmost priority and that potential risks are being addressed. As a result, care workers feel more confident and care residents receive greater levels of care, contributing to enhanced treatment outcomes and life satisfaction.
Leven, Fife, Scotland
Picture Phil Wilkinson
JAZZ, BERNARD SUNLEY CARE HOME’S RESIDENT POOCH HONOURS WORLD ANIMAL DAY CELEBRATING WITH THE RESIDENTS
Residents at Friends of the Elderly’s Woking Care Home Have a ‘Paw-some’ Day - Every Day - with Jazz
At Bernard Sunley, the Woking-based residential, nursing and dementia care home run by charity Friends of the Elderly, which is celebrating its 120th Anniversary this year, the residents have had a ‘Paw-fect’ time celebrating this year’s World Animal Day with the care home’s very own pooch, Jazz.
“The annual World Animal Day takes place on 4th October to align with the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology and animals,” said Andy Cumper, the Registered Manager at Bernard Sunley and Jazz’s ‘Human’. “As Jazz is the official furry four-legged member of the care home team and a ‘paw-manent’ member of the Bernard Sunley family, we wanted to share some of her daily activities which bring so much joy to the residents.”
Jazz, a 7-year-old Miniature Labradoodle, has been a regular face - and paws - at Bernard Sunley since she was a puppy - once she’d had all her vaccinations of course. “The residents absolutely ‘a-paw’ Jazz,” said Monika Ahmend, the care home’s Activities Coordinator. “She even has her very own spot on the activities calendar.”
Jazz takes her role very seriously and never makes a ‘faux-paw’. She has a visiting rota and makes sure she sees all the residents in their rooms and is known to often take her self off for additional visits at every ‘opp-pawtunity’. “I wouldn’t be surprised if she gets a few crafty doggie biscuit treats on her visits either,” added Monika.
Once her visiting rounds are over, it’s straight into the lounge for her daily games session with the other residents. “Jazz is very good at ‘Fetch’,” continued Andy. “The residents thoroughly enjoy see Jazz show off her fetch and return skills, and she loves being the centre of attention. Not only does she keep the residents entertained which you can tell she adores, but she also gets plenty of cuddles too, which she’s extremely fond of.”
Jazz certainly is very popular with all the residents and makes sure she gives everyone her undivided time so nobody is left without their daily Jazz dose of happiness. “I love seeing Jazz,” said resident Eric Walker. “She reminds me of my own dog.” Another resident, Kenneth Inwood added: “Jazz is my Best Friend, she brightens my day with her daily visits. I used to have a German Shepherd called Sprout, so having our very own care home dog is wonderful, as it brings back so many happy memories.”
Vivian Best, who has been a resident at Bernard Sunley since November 2022 is particularly close to Jazz. “Vivian used to live in Scotland and had pet German Shepherds. Once he’s seen Jazz, he’ll often talk about his own dogs and how much they meant to him,” continued Andy.
Bernard Sunley hosts a wide variety of special events throughout the year and Jazz is always at the centre of the action. “Jazz loves to get involved with as many events and special occasions as possible,” added Monika. “She really gets into the party spirit and especially loves showing off her celebratory outfits at Halloween, Christmas and all the Saints Days.”
“When we have a resident’s birthday, Jazz will always make sure she gives the Birthday Girl or Boy extra attention, helps the care team sing Happy Birthday and is always there when the birthday cake is cut. She’s a real character, full of love and happiness, her tail never stops wagging,” continued Andy.
Jazz was born on 18th June which makes her a Gemini dog who are known for being curious, very sociable and intelligent. “Jazz’s star sign is so true. She’s super smart and enjoys meeting new people and always wins them over with her charm,” added Monika.
“For the residents, interacting with pets, especially dogs, is a such positive and happy activity. Playing and engaging with Jazz can help to reduce stress and lower blood pressure and we see what a great reminiscing pastime it is for the residents as well. Marking World Pet Day and having Jazz make such a positive impact to the residents’ days – every day – is wonderful to witness and be part of,” concluded Andy.