“It makes a difference for service users to know that we have a different approach to caring for them” – National Healthcare Estates and Facilities Day 2022

Wednesday 15 June is National Healthcare Estates and Facilities Day, recognising the essential work of estates and facilities staff in keeping healthcare settings running efficiently.

One of our housekeepers shared how her role goes beyond the daily cleaning and maintenance of our areas – she’s also a source of support for our service users.

“I am a housekeeper, and it’s my job to make sure all areas are clean, hygienic and comfortable for all service users and employees in the Trust. I also prepare hot meals and serve these to service users, and carry out additional tasks required by nursing/healthcare staff to provide a safe and efficient running of the unit.

“My role helps the unit to run smoothly and safely. This benefits service users by making them feel cared for and comfortable while they are using the service to benefit their recovery.

“I have always felt supported in my position by everyone in the department. I know that if I ever needed support, I could ask for it and I am confident that my needs would be considered and hopefully met allowing me to carry on doing my job to the best of my ability.

“It makes a difference for service users to know that we have a different approach to caring for them. People sometimes feel better talking to us about different situations and their needs if they struggle talking to healthcare and nursing staff, which helps them to feel at ease. It gives us as housekeepers a chance to get to know them and their likes and dislikes so a good service can be maintained.”