Vanessa is a Hummingbird at Finborough Court, our home in Suffolk. In this role, she provides emotional, spiritual, and practical support to those living with dementia

9.30am
She then visits family members in their rooms, to catch up and listen to their concerns, water their plants and, on occasion, read Bible passages.

10.45am
Vanessa organises a service. She prepares a prayer, chooses a hymn and Bible reading, and asks family members for their contributions. The service begins and is played over the speakers so that those in their rooms can listen.

11.30am
While writing up her progress notes, Vanessa enjoys a cup of tea.

11.50am
Alongside the care team, Vanessa assists with giving out drinks and serving lunch, making sure everybody is okay. She lends a hand with those who need a little extra help eating or cutting up their meals.

1pm
Vanessa sits down to eat her lunch quietly, taking time to reflect on her morning and what family members have said, and how she can improve their everyday life and make their day better.

1.30pm
After lunch she helps everyone back to their rooms, or the lounge. At this point she visits those who she did not get a chance to catch up with earlier in the day. Again, she sits with them reading the Bible, praying, and bringing them comfort and company.

2pm
If the weather is nice Vanessa takes family members out for a walk, or in a wheelchair to the village. She might set up a game, such as beetle drive.

2.30pm
When there is some quiet time in the afternoon Vanessa writes her progress notes.

3pm
Meeting new family members is always a delight; Vanessa helps them complete a ‘This is me’ form which gives staff an insight into the new family member, their family, previous employment, hobbies, and denomination. The form really helps build a rapport and gain a deeper understanding of the whole person.

After work

She loves walking, birdwatching and enjoying the great outdoors. Nature is such a joy to her and she loves being able to share her love of wildlife with young people in her role as a Girl Guide Assistant Leader.

Being part of her church community is very important to Vanessa. She used to sing in the church choir and hopes to go back to singing when Covid restrictions ease. She also enjoys flower arranging at church.