Helping to improve people's experiences of social care 

Building and maintaining relationships is crucial for our overall wellbeing. It not only has positive effects on our mental health but also our physical health. 

According to the Mental Health Foundation, a UK charity working to promote good mental health and improve the lives of people affected by mental health problems (and home of #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek), individuals who are more socially connected to family, friends, or their community are happier, physically healthier, and live longer, with fewer mental health problems than people who are less well connected. 

According to Age UK, the leading charity for older people, 1.4 million older adults in the UK are often lonely. Loneliness is a significant issue that is now widely recognised in society today.

A healthy social life is essential for residents in care homes. Good and healthy friendships can increase happiness, reduce stress, and provide a range of potential health benefits, such as improved moods and better cardiovascular health. Moreover, they can help residents experience less loneliness, leading to increased self-confidence and self-worth. A better sense of belonging and purpose can motivate residents to take on more responsibility or positive risks.

Apart from visits from friends and family and interactions with other residents, developing professional relationships with care workers can have a significant positive impact. 

It's important to note that residents under your care may not have anyone else, which makes you (the carer) their primary source of social interaction. 

Having a strong, positive relationship with a care home resident helps to enhance the level of care you provide and once residents establish trust with their care workers, they feel safer, more secure, and more open to expressing themselves, which can help you get to know them better.