Private care group creates over 250 new jobs with plethora of new site openings

Danforth Care Group has “big plans” within the private care sector and have taken the industry by storm. The group has opened eight residential care homes over the last 12 months, and plans are in place to introduce eight more in the next 18 months.

The eight care homes have been opened all over the country, from Lancashire to Norwich. With the openings, 260 jobs have been created, and 528 safe places to live for vulnerable residents.

Opening a new care home doesn’t come without challenges, from regulation sign off, to recruitment and gaining admissions. For the care homes opened so far this year, Danforth has faced these challenges “head on”.

Jessica Blythe, chief of staff at Danforth, commented: “When it comes to overcoming challenges such as meeting building completion deadlines, a good knowledge for the local area has been imperative. Having the support of a good team and a home manager who can be on board from the start of the commissioning process is also very helpful”.

Andi Barker, home manager of Primrose House in East Riding, added: “Through interview and induction processes combined, we ensure staff are delivering the high standard required. High standards of care and service are then maintained through vigilant and robust quality systems,”

Hazel Madden, home manager of Heath Lodge in Norfolk, said: “Recruitment in any face-to-face service is challenging. We have seen a huge number of staff leave the industry and covering nighttime positions can be most challenging.

“The industry is not appealing to many compared to an action-packed accident and emergency dept, and we lose out in some areas due to summer season jobs.”

However, with the rise of groups like Danforth providing purpose-built care facilities where residents can live comfortably and safely, the future for care is ‘far from bleak’.

Hazel continued: “Residents and family’s expectations of service are much higher than they used to be, with demand for activities and outings are high on the agenda, as well as fine dining and 1:1 care.

“It’s hard work, overwhelming at times, but can be so rewarding. It’s finding those who have passion and commitment and drive to care for those who need a voice and someone to hold their hand.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

• Add me on LinkedIn and Twitter to keep up to date
• And follow Bdaily on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn
• Submit press releases to editor@bdaily.co.uk for consideration.