40 Faces of Brendoncare – Trudy Allen

From her fabulous activities to her infectious smile, Trudy ensures that every resident at Brendoncare Froxfield has their day brightened through everything she does for them.

A core aspect of Trudy’s role is ensuring that: “Everyone is involved and making sure that we do something meaningful for everyone. There’s no point organising massive events if people can’t get involved.”

With Brendoncare Froxfield offering dedicated dementia and end of life care, Trudy is conscious there’s the possibility of some residents missing out. “My role is about making sure people in beds are still involved, providing opportunities for all residents, and making it the best it can be for them.”

Birds of prey:

Froxfield recently enjoyed a visit from some birds of prey. Trudy also organised a singer to perform for the residents, several of whom were clapping along and joining in with songs they recognised. As well as that, the residents go on several canal boat trips a year.

Trudy’s passion for her role and residents started through caring for her grandmother and experience in care homes, noticing that the activities weren’t angled for her loved one. From this, she found that “Brendoncare was a revelation.”

One of Trudy’s biggest interests lies in the concept of ‘spontaneous activities’, so much so, she’s even writing an essay about it for her NAPA (National Activity Providers’ Association) qualification in activity provision in social care.

“There’s no harm in handing someone the Hoover, or a watering can whilst I’m watering the plants and getting them involved.” She emphasises the benefit of “allowing things to happen naturally, like an impromptu singing together or adventures like popping out to a local garden centre.”

Although all residents enjoy the activities in different ways, Trudy says: “Simply talking to them is really important as you get the opportunity to get to know people and help them get their life skills back.”

Brendoncare Froxfield has a new sensory room which Trudy uses regularly with residents. With lights, scents, an electronic rocking chair with ambient, soothing music, the sensory room is a great addition to Froxfield. Residents also have access to garden walks where they can help tend to the gardens as well as enjoying music therapy.

Whilst working with Brendoncare, Trudy has been awarded an Extra Mile Award. She was also invited for afternoon tea at Buckingham Palace! Throughout her time working in care, Trudy has noticed a shift.

“The job role has changed, positively, into being far more person focussed. If you’ve got ideas, you’ve got support from Brendoncare. Everyone supports what you do. That is why I’ve chosen Brendoncare for my family when the time comes as Brendoncare cares.”

Trudy’s passion for her role is evident as she reiterates, “I love my job”, but she says, “The residents are the best part” and this is clear in the way she beams when she talks about them and interacts with them.

“I never leave on time because if I walk past an open door, I have to go in and say goodnight!”