Jenny Darby has worked towards some fantastic achievements in less than a year as manager of Enliven’s Chalmers Home.
The home in New Plymouth achieved four-year certification from the Ministry of Health last year for the first time.
“The recertification for us was a massive team achievement to acknowledge how far we’ve come in recent years,” Jenny says.
To achieve recertification the home underwent a rigorous audit process which looked at the way residents are cared for, how staff interact with the residents, how policies and procedures are followed and applied, documentation standards and time frames, the general environment as well as the satisfaction levels of residents, families and staff.
Based on the auditors’ report, the Ministry of Health then determines the length of recertification before the next audit. Four years is the maximum length that can be granted.
“Since then we’ve been focusing not only on providing top quality care, but also concentrating on having fun with the residents, supporting them to do the things they love and doing up the buildings and the gardens.”
Prior to becoming manager, Jenny had worked at Chalmers Home for three years as its Clinical Manager.
She has 25 years of management experience across aged care in New Zealand – mainly in New Plymouth and her hometown Whanganui.
“My nursing background also gives me valuable insight into the role,” she explains.
One attraction for Jenny to work for Enliven was the strong alignment of its philosophy of care with her own personal values, especially the holistic approach to dementia care.
Jenny says the commitment of the long-term staff to the job was another thing she valued.
Come this summer, Jenny will mark one year in the role – an eventful 12 months given the hard work to achieve recertification and of course successfully keeping residents and staff safe during Covid-19 restrictions.
Enliven’s Chalmers Home provides rest home and hospital level care, as well as short-term respite and health recovery care, and an engaging day activity programme. To find out more about Chalmers Home call the home directly on 06 758 5190 or visit www.enlivencentral.org.nz.
