Steven Spellman, Director at residential and nursing care provider Spellman Care, discusses sustainability in care and the role of implementing eco-friendly practices in promoting health and well-being. 
At Spellman Care, we believe that exceptional care goes hand-in-hand with a commitment to environmental responsibility, social well-being, and strong governance. This holistic approach, encapsulated by our dedication to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, allows us to create a thriving environment for our residents, staff, and the communities we serve.
We pride ourselves on being a forward thinking company, and are always looking for ways we can improve ourselves and the sector. That’s why we are pleased to be able to share our approach to ESG.
Environmental Sustainability
Our key priority is minimising our environmental footprint. We recently took a significant step forward by installing solar panels. This not only benefits the environment but also aligns us with the UK’s net-zero targets.
Just two months after installation we have already saved 1,960.77kg of CO2 from entering the atmosphere, the equivalent of planting 118 trees.
The benefits extend beyond environmental care. Currently, the savings the panels make are being used to offset the cost of installation. In the future, the money will be reinvested into the home.
We encourage other care homes to explore the benefits of solar power. By collectively reducing our carbon footprint and energy costs, we can create a more sustainable future.
Beyond Green Energy
We understand a happy and healthy workforce is essential for providing exceptional care. We are committed to fostering a positive and supportive work environment for our employees. This includes comprehensive well-being programs and a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
The Wellbeing and Development Hub has become a central resource for employee wellbeing, offering staff discounts and wellbeing signposts. The hub also features staff news, the ability to nominate a colleague for a Star Award, training opportunities, inspiration and useful links to staff training, and the Blue Light Card Scheme.
Following the launch of The Wellbeing and Development Hub, our Wellbeing Project saw the introduction of a quarterly Staff Newsletter which keeps everyone informed about company news and wellbeing initiatives.
We also introduced a monthly “Open Breakfast” and “Wellbeing Wednesday”, offering fun activities to support staff wellbeing.
Strong Governance
At Spellman Care, ethical operations and strong leadership are paramount. We achieve this through robust compliance procedures, a commitment to whistleblower protection, and a focus on ethical suppliers. We hold ourselves to the highest standards and believe in transparency and accountability.
Everyone goes through a comprehensive induction, ensuring they are familiar with our policies and procedures, and most importantly our residents and the home they will be working in. The process facilitates regular reviews, with encouragement to highlight areas for improvement. We include further information on staff wellbeing, with an introduction to our wellbeing hub, and regular wellbeing events and activities.
Community Engagement
Social care doesn’t exist in a vacuum. We actively engage with local schools, charities, and authorities. This collaborative approach allows us to make a positive impact that extends far beyond our care homes.
Most recently we achieved Veteran Friendly Framework status across the group. Our homes now work closely with local clinical and armed forces services to provide the best quality personalised care for veterans.
We launched a ‘Schools Out for Summer’ campaign, where local families can visit the home for an afternoon of play, with snack packs provided. Simple activities like this bring together generations, encouraging conversation and learning.
We pride ourselves on supporting national campaigns that benefit members of our community. Each year we host activities for Care Home Open Week and Silver Sunday, to welcome in members of the local community. Hosting events like these isn’t just beneficial to our residents, who enjoy the increased socialisation, it is beneficial to those in the community who may be suffering social isolation.
A Model for the Sector
Our dedication to ESG positions us as a model for other providers. By showcasing the benefits of a holistic approach, we hope to inspire others to adopt similar initiatives. This collective effort will ensure a sustainable future for the entire care sector, benefiting residents, staff, and the planet.
@SpellmanCare
spellmancare.co.uk
