“A journey rooted in love, compassion and commitment to serving our community with dignity and care.”

The words our Registered Manager and CEO Cathy Naigow at a very special event to mark the 20th anniversary of Vincentian Care Plus.

​We were proud to gather at a highly prestigious Westminster location on Saturday (September 28th) to celebrate an incredible 20 years, and, most importantly, to celebrate the incredible people who make what we do possible.

​It was a chance to bring together our team members, stakeholders and service-users with our founding sisters from the Daughters of Charity, to shine a light on VCP and its continued and growing importance.

Our charity was founded to provide exceptional care to the elderly and in need within our community in the London borough of Westminster. The ‘plus’ in our name reflects our commitment to doing more for the people we support and is driven by a clear social mission to address emerging poverties.
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In the last 20 years whilst household wealth has tripled in the UK, poverty has continued to increase and deepen. Despite the input of 6 prime ministers, poverty has continued to grow at unprecedented levels.

It's estimated that around one in ten people over the age of 65 are malnourished or are at risk of malnutrition – that's over one million older people in the UK today.

2.1 million (or around 1 in 6) pensioners are living in poverty, 8.1 million (or around 2 in 10) working-age adults, and 4.2 million (or nearly 3 in 10) children.

​Over 28% of people with informal caring roles live in poverty, 4 in 10 Asian families and a shocking 42% of black African families.

​We are proud to provide more than 150,000 hours of care each year, supporting 250 people.

None of it would be possible without our dedicated staff members, the heart of everything we do, and we’re immensely proud to have one of the lowest staff turnover rates in the care sector, with 25 of our team receiving long service awards at our celebration.

We were privileged to welcome the sisters who founded our charity 20 years ago, including Sister Ellen who spoke of the values we were founded on, and which remain at the absolute centre of VCP.

“Everyone who encounters VCP knows that the service is built on relationships, one to one relationships of love and laughter, or joys and sorrows, shared respect and dignity for everyone. The holistic approach intends to envelop each person with whom it comes in contact, yes the people we support in their homes are the centre of our lives, but this approach also includes staff, partners, funders, and the way we conduct ourselves as an organisation internally and externally, in every arena. The integrity of the organisation demands that we proclaim our values in every layer of our organisation. Today we celebrate 20 years of the unbroken stream of caring delivered with distinct values, reaching back to the beginning.”
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To everyone who joined us, thank you. 

Shared values and going the extra mile – we were honoured to give thanks to some of our long-standing team members at our 20th anniversary celebrations.

“As I always say, one tree does not make a forest. The staff are the pillars of VCP,” our Registered Manager and CEO Cathy said.

Sentiments echoed by our Chairman Glen von Malachowski: “Our staff are our most important asset, the quality of what we do is determined by the commitment and consistency of our staff, to them it is not just a job. We are committed to the professionalisation of the carers’ role, and we will continue to fight for improvements in pay, training and recognition of the importance of their role.”

1.Stay Active
Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves balance to help prevent falls, and boosts energy and mental wellbeing.
Tip: Activity levels will differ for everyone, but a routine can really help, whether it’s yoga, walking or some simple stretches while the kettle is boiling.

2.Nourish Your Body
A balanced diet fuels your body and brain, helping maintain a healthy weight, reduce inflammation, and prevent chronic diseases.
Tip: Focus on nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fish, while cutting back on processed sugars.

3.Prioritise Mental Wellness
It is so important to focus not just on your physical wellbeing, but also on your mental wellbeing. From managing stress through mindfulness, to keeping your brain active with puzzles, reading or learning.
Tip: Try simple deep breathing exercises to help reduce stress.

4.Keep Learning
Lifelong learning helps keep your mind agile and adaptable - and brings joy to your life. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, or diving into a new subject.
Tip: It’s never too late to learn something new, have a look at classes local to you, or online.

5.Maintain Social Connections
Loneliness and social isolation are common concerns as people age, but they don't have to be inevitable. Actively nurturing relationships with friends, family, and community can greatly enhance your quality of life and provide emotional support.
Tip: Make time for regular social interactions – whether it’s a weekly call to a friend or joining a new group.

6.Prioritise Sleep
As we age, sleep patterns may change, but getting enough restful sleep is crucial for both your physical and mental health.
Tip: Go to bed at the same time each night to help establish a good routine.

7.Stay Hydrated
Dehydration becomes a bigger risk as we age, but it’s often overlooked. Drinking enough water throughout the day can prevent fatigue, confusion, and digestive issues.
Tip: Make it a habit to carry a water bottle with you or set regular reminders to drink water throughout the day.

8.Adapt Your Environment
As we age, adapting our living environment to suit our evolving needs is essential for maintaining independence and safety. Simple changes like adding better lighting, grab bars, or non-slip mats in key areas of your home can make a huge difference.
Tip: Regularly assess your home for potential hazards, and don’t hesitate to make adjustments.

9.Embrace Change
Let go of negative ageing stereotypes – and instead see ageing as a time for growth and new opportunities.
Tip: Connect with like-minded people to share the joys and challenges!

10. Plan for the Future - But Live in the Present
Whether it’s organising your finances or planning your care needs, it’s important to prepare for the future. But it’s also essential to focus on the present and find enjoyment in the small things.
Tip: Create a balance between planning for the future and living in the moment. 

Ageing is an inevitable part of life, but how we experience it can vary widely. For a long time, getting older was often associated with decline, loss, and disengagement. However, the concept of "positive ageing" challenges these outdated notions, offering a more empowering perspective on the later stages of life.

What is Positive Ageing?
Positive ageing is a holistic approach to growing older that emphasises maintaining physical, mental, and social wellbeing. It’s about focusing on the potential that comes with age rather than just the limitations. Instead of viewing ageing as a period of decline, positive ageing encourages individuals to see it as a time of continued growth, learning, and contribution.

​At its core, positive ageing is about living a fulfilling life, regardless of age. It involves staying active, both physically and mentally, staying connected to others, and finding meaning and purpose in everyday activities.

Key Elements of Positive Ageing

1. Physical Wellbeing:
Staying physically active is so important as we age. The level of physical activity will vary for everyone, but regular exercise, in any form, helps maintain mobility, strength, and balance, reducing the risk of falls and other age-related health issues. Good nutrition is just as important, prioritising a balanced diet to support overall health and vitality.

2. Mental Wellbeing:
Mental stimulation is vital as we get older. Engaging in activities that challenge the brain, such as games, reading, or learning new skills, can help maintain cognitive function. Positive ageing also involves managing stress and maintaining a positive outlook. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can be a brilliant way to help keep stress levels in check.

The Benefits of Positive Ageing
Adopting a positive ageing mindset has far reaching benefits. By staying physically and mentally fit, and socially engaged, people can maintain their independence for longer as they age, which is crucial for quality of life.  With the right support, your later years are a time to thrive. 

​The Initial Challenges
Starting my career at VCP was not without its hurdles. Moving to a new country meant adapting to a different culture, weather, and sometimes, a new language. There were moments of homesickness and the occasional bout of self-doubt. Learning the intricacies of the healthcare system in the UK was another significant challenge. Despite having experience in caregiving, the protocols and regulations here were different.
 
One of the toughest aspects was supporting service users with challenging behaviours. It takes a lot of patience, empathy, and resilience to understand and meet their unique needs. Initially, there were days when I felt overwhelmed, but with each passing day, I became more confident and adept at handling difficult situations.

The Support System at VCP
What made a world of difference was the unwavering support I received from VCP. The ethos of Vincentian Care Plus is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep commitment to providing quality care. From my first day, I felt welcomed and valued as a member of the VCP family.

​This sense of camaraderie and teamwork has been instrumental in helping me navigate the ups and downs of caring.

​The Rewards of Caring
Despite the challenges, the rewards of being a carer at VCP are immense. There is an unparalleled sense of fulfilment that comes from making a positive difference in someone's life. I have had the privilege of forming deep connections with our service users, understanding their stories, and being a part of their journey towards better health and wellbeing.

Vincentian Care Plus is more than just a place of work; it is a place where compassion meets excellence, where every carer is valued, and every service user is treated with dignity and respect. For anyone considering a career in caregiving, VCP offers an environment where you can truly thrive and make a difference.”
 
Find out more about a career with us 

At Vincentian Care Plus, we have the privilege of serving incredible individuals who inspire us every day. One such remarkable person is Sheila Joly, who recently celebrated a milestone that few achieve—her 100th birthday!
On the 17th of May, surrounded by friends, family, and members of our dedicated VCP team, Sheila marked this special occasion with an unforgettable celebration filled with joy, laughter, and love.

A Day to Remember
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The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as the VCP team arrived at the day centre to celebrate Sheila, bearing flowers and warm wishes. The lounge area was transformed into a beautiful party venue, adorned with balloons, banners, and, of course, a stunning cake.
 
The celebration kicked off with a heartfelt speech from Sheila’s daughter, who shared touching anecdotes and expressed immense pride in her reaching such an extraordinary age. The VCP team also took a moment to share their experiences and the joy of being part of Sheila’s journey. There were plenty of laughs as stories from Sheila’s younger days were recounted, bringing to life the vibrant and adventurous spirit she has always had.

 Reflections on a Century
 
Reaching 100 years is not just a personal achievement for Sheila but a milestone for all of us at Vincentian Care Plus.
It reflects our commitment to providing quality care that not only meets the physical needs of our service users but also nurtures their emotional and social wellbeing. Celebrations like Sheila’s remind us of the importance of compassion, community, and connection in the work we do. 

Physical inactivity negatively affects both physical and mental health. 

Research has found that people who are inactive have three times the rate of moderate to severe depression of active people. There is also strong evidence to support the role of physical activity in the reduction of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular physical activity can reduce your risk of depression by up to 30%. 

Enabling the people we support to stay active and connected to their community is a big focus for us, because we know the impact it has on quality of life.

Therefore, at Vincentian Care Plus, we're committed to empowering those we support to lead active lives and stay connected to their communities. We recognise the profound impact of physical activity on overall well-being and are dedicated to providing tailored care that extends beyond basic needs to encompass factors like staying active and maintaining social connections.
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Join us in our mission to promote positive ageing by prioritising physical activity and social engagement!

​We make a difference by investing in our team and our shared commitment to excellence and positive outcomes. 

And the joy & pride of everyone at Vincentian Care Plus shone through at the Home Care Awards, as our CEO & Registered Manager Cathy Naigow says:

“We pour our hearts and souls into our work, and being nominated for Specialist Care Expertise was a testament to the dedication of our entire team.

“The moment our names were called out for a High Commendation, the room erupted with joy.

“As we stood before the audience, receiving our award and posing for professional photos, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with emotion. This was more than just recognition; it was validation of our commitment to providing exceptional care to those in need.”

Travelling to the awards ceremony at the National Conference Centre alongside Cathy, were three remarkable carers, Tesfit Weldemicheal, Sabina Adjei-Lecointe and Ermias Mebrahtu (affectionately known as Jay),  Field Care Supervisor Mohamed Kamara, Recruitment & HR Manager Nimisha George, Nashande Seraphin-McDonald, our Compliance & Quality Manager, Lynette Brophy, Contract Manager at Edward Alsop Court/Look Ahead Care & Support, and Glen Von Malachowski, the Chair of our Board of Trustees.

“It was not just a journey to Birmingham, but a journey of camaraderie and shared passion,” Cathy added.

“We mingled with fellow nominees, each with their own stories of dedication and compassion. It was humbling to be among such esteemed company, sharing our experiences and learning from one another.

“Our journey to the Home Care Awards had been one of anticipation, excitement, and ultimately, triumph. And as we made our way back home, hearts full and spirits soaring, I knew that this was just the beginning of many more victories to come.”