Nestled in the middle of Coleford, Gloucestershire, Dora Matthews House is an Extra Care service run by not-for-profit organisation, Ambient Support. Julie Element manages a team of fourteen. The service, which is now an integral part of the local community, is committed to reducing social isolation in the rural Forest of Dean.
The team at Dora Matthews embody Ambient’s 5i values of inclusivity, integrity, innovation, inspiration and impact. Julie manages her staff attentively, encouraging discussions and their input on decisions, respecting personal commitments and helping staff to gain further qualifications.
‘It’s so important that my team are listened to and valued so I always ask their opinions in all aspects of what we do here.’
The team’s achievements don’t go unnoticed, with three Dora Matthews staff members winning Ambient’s internal values-based award over four nomination periods.
Donna Gwilliam, Care and Support Worker says:
‘Dora Matthews gives carers a chance to reach their full potential. They gave me confidence and Julie believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. It’s like a family, and I’m proud to say I’m in my eighth year here and hope there’s many more to come.’
The team’s unity has come into full force in recent years, particularly in the aftermath of a housefire at the service. The response to the incident by the staff teams on shift was exemplary and they pulled together to support all their tenants in the following days and weeks. Julie created safe spaces for her staff and tenants to share their emotions and worries. People received additional support in the form of counselling, informal coffee and chat sessions and extra evening visits from Julie to ensure they all felt safe and settled.
In a recent Ambient survey of the people they support, 100% of tenants said they felt safe, and that Dora Matthews had helped make their life better.
Staff also feel the same, as Team Leader Emma Hale says:
‘Dora is different because we work as a team, I have worked in other care settings and I’ve never had staff work, look after and support each other like we do at Dora Matthews.’
And Jon Meek, Care and Support Worker says:
‘Our management team are very supportive. I feel I can come to Julie about any concerns at work or in my personal life for guidance and advice. I am very happy working here.’
Over 90% of the team have grown up in Coleford where although everyone knows each other, many people struggle with isolation. So, Julie has dedicated herself to solidifying those community ties:
‘I wanted to make Dora Matthews House the hub of the community. I went around and spoke to people to help them understand that we are a place where people can come together.’
Now, the local police and fire department visit to do training and even run a dementia café. The farmer’s market visits regularly with fresh produce for tenants and staff. The Voluntary Action Forum hosts a mental health group at the service for members of the public and tenants. There are volunteer group bingo sessions, also open to everyone. This speaks volumes about the team’s success in cementing Dora Matthews as a pillar of the community.
Julie comments:
‘We don’t need much of an excuse to have a party! The atmosphere at the events we host makes everyone feel part of Dora.’
The team’s commitment to forging strong connections with local groups is reducing social isolation for people in rural areas like Gloucestershire. What’s more, Julie’s efforts to build a work environment based on mutual respect, understanding and support have created the foundation needed for her team to thrive and truly love what they do.
