Care home group recognised for supporting their staff in latest Investors of People review

Maria Mallaband Care Group (MMCG) is delighted to confirm that it has successfully passed its latest review with Investors in People (IPP). Accreditation was also secured by Countrywide Care Homes, a part of the Maria Mallaband Care Group.

The review of MMCG took place across 10 of its care homes, with remote interviews of 78 members of staff. The comprehensive process scrutinised key aspects including leadership, values and behaviours, staff empowerment and recognition of high performance. A range of practical considerations were also covered.

Vicky Craddock, Chief Operating Officer of Maria Mallaband Care Group commented:

“We are delighted once again that both Maria Mallaband Care Group and Countrywide Care Homes have been awarded this accreditation. This rigorous three-year review covered one of the most challenging years our industry has ever faced. We are immensely proud that we have not only maintained the high standards set for ourselves at the last review but have exceeded them. Our sincere thanks to our entire team for making this happen.”

Feedback from IPP highlighted that the group had responded “extremely well” to the challenges faced from Covid-19. Every single member of staff interviewed agreed that they had been well supported throughout the pandemic, with regular updates, guidance, and PPE to keep everyone as safe as possible. The importance of staff safety was reaffirmed by the introduction of the HUB and facilitation of virtual communication via MS teams. Along with the provision of company laptops, this enabled many to work from home who were able to.

The review also recognised MMCG’s commitment to further improving both its recruitment and learning and development processes. For example, the turnaround for online recruitment and selection has been reduced from 21 days to 5 days. MMCG is also proud to be supporting a number of staff members to become Trainee Nursing Associates. The TNA programme is just one of the ways that the group is providing continuous learning and development opportunities to its staff, helping them to achieve their potential.

For MMCG, their mission is “to be the best quality, most highly regarded care provider in the United Kingdom”. This not only means creating a caring, supportive environment for those who live in the care homes but for the staff too. The opportunity to celebrate success and recognise the achievements of each team is still a fundamental aspect of working life within the group. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, MMCG were delighted that the 2020 Care Awards still took place, with virtual parties and get-togethers encouraged. The report also showed these efforts were much appreciated.

At the heart of all Investors in People accreditations is the ambition to make work better. In line with this approach, MMCG has worked hard to ensure the core values of the group are embodied in everything they do. This is highlighted by one particular interviewee, who commented that - “We just want to be the best and offer the best possible care.”

Susan Jones, Chief People Officer goes on to say:

“The way we work should always be aligned with our core values of passion, honesty, openness and the understanding that everyone is unique. It is the demonstration of these values that has led to such fantastic feedback from both members of staff and IIP. MMCG is always looking for new ways to enhance and develop our teams and processes, so we are looking forward to taking on the new challenges in 2021 and beyond”.

To find out more about the Maria Mallaband Care Group visit: https://www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk/