A novel new competition to highlight the good work done in Irish nursing homes has just been launched.
Nursing Homes Ireland is seeking nominations from Mayo nursing homes for the first annual Nursing Homes Ireland Care Awards which are designed to recognise and reward the contributions made by those living in and working in nursing homes nationwide.
Meanwhile staff at Ireland’s nursing homes are bracing themselves for the possible deluge of new residents which arises from the annual summer ward closures in HSE hospitals.
“The average level of delayed discharges from hospitals reached 820 last year,” said Tadhg Daly, CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland. “And the HSE can no longer provide figures on the delays in processing Fair Deal applications, but we know that at least half remain unresolved. So this means this summer will see some of the highest demand for nursing home places although it is unclear whether the HSE will be able to use this valuable resource because the money isn’t there. The delays in processing fair deal applications are unacceptable,” he said.
The new nursing home awards, in association with Homecare Medical Supplies, have been structured to allow nominations from members of the care team as well as residents and relatives.
“This is to ensure that everyone who is involved in the sector can have their say. The award categories have been chosen with equal care to reflect not just on the professionals delivering services but also on the achievements of residents and part time staff, as well as how well the nursing home integrates into its surrounding community. We are now calling on Mayo nursing homes residents and their friends and family, as well as staff, to get involved and submit their nominations. Those in nursing homes deserve the opportunity to shine and to have their invaluable work recognised and celebrated,” said Mr Daly.
Nominations are open under various categories including Nursing Home Registered Nurse of the Year Award, Nursing Home Carer of the Year, Nursing Home Resident Achievement Award, Nursing Home Activities Co-ordinator Award, Nursing Home Catering and Nutrition Award, Nursing Home Ancillary Worker Award, and the Community Initiative Award.
Application forms and further information available at www.nhicareawards.ie
