St Mary’s Riverside Care Home in Hessle proudly announces its achievement of the Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) status, signifying its commitment to providing exemplary care and support to former members of the Armed Forces residing within its premises. The VFF accreditation underscores the home’s dedication to addressing the practical, emotional, and social needs of veterans, aiming to enhance their overall well-being.
The VFF, a pioneering initiative across England, aims to elevate the standard of care for veterans in residential settings by offering specialised training and resources to care homes. By achieving VFF status, St Mary’s Riverside Care Home demonstrates its readiness to provide tailored care that acknowledges and respects the unique experiences and requirements of its veteran residents.
To attain this esteemed status, St Mary’s Riverside Care Home successfully met eight stringent standards set forth by the VFF. These standards encompass various aspects of care provision, including incorporating Armed Forces status within care plans, mitigating social isolation, and facilitating access to essential support services such as the local Royal British Legion branch and other veteran-oriented charities.
Laura Barnsley, the Home Manager at St Mary’s Riverside Care Home, expressed her delight at achieving VFF accreditation, emphasising the home’s unwavering commitment to person-centred care. She encouraged loved ones and residents to communicate any past or present Armed Forces involvement, ensuring that the care provided remains tailored and inclusive.
Laura also highlighted the historical significance of the Armed Forces within the local community, citing Hull’s profound connection with military service and sacrifice. With a significant percentage of veterans residing in the area, the accreditation holds particular importance for St Mary’s Riverside Care Home and its mission to serve the Armed Forces community effectively.
The Veteran Friendly Framework is a collaborative endeavour supported by esteemed Armed Forces charities including Royal Star & Garter and Royal British Legion, alongside the NHS Veterans’ Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA), with funding assistance from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.
Kathryn Glass is the VFF Project Lead at Royal Star & Garter and responsible for supporting and assessing care homes going through the scheme. She said: “We’re delighted that St Mary’s Riverside Care Home 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 St Mary’s Riverside Care Home who can 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 St Mary’s Riverside Care Home.
St Mary’s Riverside Care Home looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence in care provision and remains dedicated to supporting the needs of its veteran residents, ensuring they receive the respect, dignity, and assistance they deserve.
This ‘Outstanding‘ care home remains committed to creating a supportive and joyful environment where every day is an opportunity to celebrate and be part of a great community.