RMBI ANNUAL REVIEW <strong>2011</strong>–<strong>12</strong>
CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT | 9 Higher standards of care Chief Executive's report David Innes Operationally, the RMBI has had an excellent year during which the overall standard of care has risen, satisfaction levels have increased and several efficiency measures have been introduced to keep expenditure under control. The staff in our Homes have worked extremely hard to ensure that we provide the highest possible standards of person-centred care and are fully compliant with the new regulatory framework and best practice within the sector. In addition, 30 members of staff, including many Home Managers and their Deputies, have been undertaking a year-long Diploma in Person Centred Dementia Care which will enable us to provide even more support to the increasingly large number of residents with a dementia. Once again, I would like to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of all our staff and volunteers, without whom the RMBI would not be what it is today. During the course of the year, Phase 1 of our new Home in the grounds of James Terry Court in Croydon was opened (with 48 beds), and Phase 2 (with 28 beds) is scheduled to open in early 2013. Major refurbishment works have also been completed at Connaught Court in York and The Tithebarn in Liverpool, while similar projects continue at Prince George Duke of Kent Court in Kent, and Shannon Court in Surrey. I am acutely conscious that the majority of our residents and staff have had to endure considerable disruption over the last few years. However, I know that it has been worthwhile as our Homes are much improved in terms of both facilities and fire safety. At a national level, there appears to be little political will to tackle the very significant funding crisis in the care sector, and the future of primary care trusts and GP commissioning is far from clear. Also, our main regulatory body, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), has not been particularly effective as the regulator and there have been further very disturbing revelations, by the BBC’s Panorama programme, about the CQC’s ability to monitor services appropriately. Against this backdrop, the RMBI has continued to contribute to the debate on all these issues through the National Care Forum. We have also taken part in a number of seminars and trials to help develop best practice. Our involvement has helped to enhance our status as a leading provider in the sector. Away from the Homes, we have expanded our Care Advice Team to eight members which will enable them to provide advice and guidance to even more Masons and their dependants. The team increasingly works on behalf of all four Central <strong>Masonic</strong> Charities and is closely involved with the Freemasonry Cares initiative. Our sheltered housing complexes at Harewood Court in Hove and Robert Eliot Court in Cornwall continue to flourish, and Harry Priestley House in Doncaster, our home for adults with learning disabilities, has been recognised as a centre of excellence. Looking ahead to 20<strong>12</strong>-13, the global financial situation continues to be uncertain, the needs of our residents will undoubtedly increase, and maintaining occupancy levels at our Homes will be very challenging. However, with the support of our wonderful Associations of Friends and the wider <strong>Masonic</strong> community, I see no reason why the RMBI should not have another very successful year. “ What I enjoy most about living here is the company, and the feeling of security and safety.” A resident at Connaught Court, York