Carer workers across Darlington are being thanked for their dedication with a wellbeing initiative to encourage them to take time out for themselves.
Care assistants, social workers, support workers, community assessment officers and occupational therapists are among those within the adult care sector being invited to take advantage of the wellbeing packages provided by Darlington Borough Council.
The packages which are funded through the Government’s Workforce Retention and Recruitment Fund aim to provide a wellbeing offer to paid adult carers, ancillary staff and front line teams as a way of thanking them for the dedication, commitment and care they have demonstrated during the Covid pandemic. It is hoped the offers will be an incentive for employees to prioritise their physical and mental health, take time out after a demanding day, enjoy time with their families and feel refreshed to keep doing the rewarding roles they do.
To be eligible for one of the two packages available, carers need to work within a council or private care setting or service in Darlington. The application process is simple requiring carers to confirm their employment and ID and once approved, a package in the form of vouchers or membership will be issued.
The packages which are limited to one per person include either a Personal Wellbeing package which consists of a 12-month corporate membership at the Dolphin Centre, including gym, pool, and fitness classes, access to qualified GP referral staff who can help with a variety of medical conditions and contact with The Get Results service which is ongoing one to one fitness support and programmes tailored to each individual or;
The second package, the Family Welbeing package centres around spending time with family and friends and includes three free family bowling sessions, three free family swim sessions and three free family soft play vouchers, up to four buy on get one free pantomime tickets for the Hippodrome are also included.
Councillor Lorraine Tostevin, cabinet member for adults, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to give back to anyone working in adult care across the borough, to say thank you and to show them how much their critical roles are appreciated and valued in our communities. This is also an incentive for anyone considering moving into a new role supporting vulnerable adults within our communities. The packages are varied and allow the benefits to be spread out so that the vouchers or membership can be enjoyed for months to come. I do hope the wellbeing packages are well used and enjoyed and our carers feel appreciated because they genuinely are.”
Anyone interested in applying for a wellbeing package or finding out more can email healthydarlington@darlington.gov.uk or call 01325 406000.
