A SHIRLEY care home has been recognised for its commitment to the armed forces community.
Swallows Meadow Court has received Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) status for its dedication to the armed forces and those who have previously served.
The staff and management say they have always supported veterans like Peter, a current resident, who goes each year to sell poppies at the local Sainsbury’s.
They are pleased this scheme has enabled them to be a verified veteran friendly provider and they look forward to welcoming more veterans who may need nursing care within Solihull.
Swallows Meadow is looking forward to developing a closer relationship with the Royal British Legion and attending coffee mornings at the local branch after becoming the first home within Solihull (apart from one of the organisers, Royal Star and Garter) to be awarded the VFF.
The aim of the VFF is to better support the practical, emotional and social needs of the Armed Forces community, in residential care homes across England, by providing training and resources to assess and improve the care they offer.
It is a collaboration between Armed Forces charities Royal Star and Garter and Royal British Legion, and NHS Veterans’ Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA), with funding support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.
To achieve their Veteran Friendly status, Swallows Meadow Court was required to meet eight standards.
These included noting Armed Forces status within care plans; addressing social isolation; and signposting to support services, such as their local Royal British Legion branch, and other charities that provide support for veterans or partners of veterans.
Kathryn Glass is the VFF project lead at Royal Star and Garter and responsible for supporting and assessing care homes going through the scheme.
She said: “We’re delighted that Swallows Meadow has achieved VFF status.
“This is a great commitment to their continuous improvement in the delivery of person-centred care for veteran residents and their partners.
“This programme will benefit both current and future residents, along with current and future staff at Swallows Meadow court who are able to access enhanced training and guidance to better engage with the unique military experiences that their residents and partners have lived through.
“Being a VFF care home means that there is an increased understanding and recognition for the veteran community at Swallows Meadow Court.”
