Nottinghamshire care group puts families’ voices at the heart of care

Church Farm Care, which operates five care homes across the county, has been supporting a monthly relatives’ support group at its Rusticus home in Cotgrave. The group brings together family members of residents to share experiences, support one another and raise ideas that could improve everyday life for residents and visitors alike.

The group is led by relatives themselves and has grown organically, with family members describing it as a space to talk openly, exchange ideas and feel less alone.

Ann Fryer, whose husband Edwin lives at Rusticus, joined the group shortly after he moved into the home. She said: “I joined the group hoping to speak with people who were more experienced [when Edwin first came to Rusticus].”

She added: “The most valuable aspect of the group has been sharing ideas about activities for residents,” and noted the impact it has had on her relationship with staff: “I feel I can speak openly with all staff and they know my name as a result of attending the group.”

Another member of the group, Pamela Garton, said the emotional support has been just as important. “Meeting other relatives has been very helpful, especially other wives,” she said. “For the most part, you are not only visiting a loved one, but then going back to an empty house.”

Pamela also highlighted the openness of the care team. “I have always felt I could discuss things with the carers, nurses and management,” she said. “They are ready to listen and helpful.”

Suggestions raised through the group have led to small but practical changes within the home, including clearer ways of identifying staff members and improvements to shared spaces. While modest, family members say these changes make visits feel more personal and reassuring.

Lucy Atkinson, co-founder of Church Farm Care, said the group reflects a wider commitment to partnership with families. “Some of the most valuable learning in care comes from listening carefully to families who are living this experience every day,” she said. “Our role is to create the space for those conversations to happen and to respond with openness and respect.”

Church Farm Care is now exploring how similar relatives’ groups could be encouraged across its other homes, while ensuring each group remains family-led and informal.

For Ann, the value of the group is simple. “I would recommend others join the group,” she said. “Come along, talk, laugh, cry, we are not alone.”

For more information about Church Farm Care Group visit www.churchfarmcare.co.uk.