Senior Activities Coordinator

This review offers a comprehensive look at the Senior Activities Coordinator position at Ardenlea Court Care Home, providing insights for prospective candidates to understand the opportunity and guide their career development.

Opportunity Overview:

The Senior Activities Coordinator role at Ardenlea Court Care Home, part of Bupa, presents a rewarding opportunity for individuals passionate about enriching the lives of residents in a care home setting. This full-time, permanent position requires a flexible approach to working hours, including alternate weekends, and offers a competitive hourly rate of £12.35 - £13.35, dependent on experience. At its core, this role is about fostering a vibrant and engaging environment for residents, enabling them to live their best lives through person-centred activities and genuine connection.

Key Responsibilities and Advantages for Candidates:

• Creative Engagement: You will have the autonomy to design and deliver a wide range of stimulating activities, from musical performances and community visits to arts and crafts and exercise classes. This is an excellent platform for individuals with a creative flair and a passion for bringing joy and activity into people's lives.
• Strategic Planning & Budget Management: The role involves developing and managing an activity planner and adhering to a set budget. This offers a valuable opportunity to develop skills in event planning, resource allocation, and financial management within a care setting.
• Building Community & Relationships: A significant aspect of the role involves fostering strong relationships with residents, encouraging their participation, and organising special events like birthday surprises. You will also be instrumental in liaising with external performers and local community groups, enhancing the home's connection to the wider world. This is ideal for those who thrive on building rapport and making a tangible difference in others' lives.
• Holistic Support: Beyond organised activities, you'll provide one-to-one support to residents, which might include engaging in reminiscing, puzzles, reading, or simply enjoying a cup of tea and a conversation. This aspect of the role highlights the importance of empathy and the ability to connect on a personal level.
• Administrative & Digital Skills Development: The role requires maintaining accurate records, updating care plans, and managing correspondence. There's also an opportunity to support the home's social media channels, offering a chance to enhance your digital communication and content creation skills.
• Exposure to Care Operations: While the primary focus is activities, there are opportunities to assist with meal times when necessary, providing a broader understanding of the daily operations within a care home.

Key Considerations for Career Growth:

• Flexibility is Key: The requirement for flexibility, including working alternate weekends, is crucial. Candidates should assess how this aligns with their personal commitments and lifestyle.
• Making a Difference: This role is deeply rooted in making a positive impact on residents' lives. A genuine desire to care for others, a sense of humour, and infectious enthusiasm are essential qualities that will contribute to your success and job satisfaction.
• Community Spirit: The role thrives on community engagement, both within the home and externally. Being proactive in building links and involving others will be highly beneficial.
• Bupa's Commitment to Wellbeing: Bupa offers a comprehensive wellbeing programme, Viva, covering mental, physical, financial, social, and environmental health. This includes benefits like My Healthcare (24/7 health support), an annual healthcare allowance, sick pay, free meals, and access to discounts.
• Professional Development: Bupa champions diversity and encourages employees to "Be you at Bupa." They are a Level 2 Disability Confident Employer, committed to fair treatment and reasonable adjustments for all applicants. The company also offers long-term service rewards, interest-free travel loans, early access to wages via Wagestream, parental leave schemes, a Menopause Plan, and pension plans, all contributing to a supportive and enriching work environment.

In summary, the Senior Activities Coordinator position at Ardenlea Court Care Home offers a dynamic and fulfilling career path for individuals who are passionate about creating meaningful experiences for older adults. If you are creative, empathetic, organised, and eager to contribute to a positive and supportive community, this role provides an excellent platform to make a real difference and grow within a respected healthcare organisation.