Meaningful Care Matters

03/09/2026

Does a welcome matter? Sandy Croley, Director of Programs and Rehabilitation at Kindera Living explores the various dimensions of the concept of ‘mattering’ and the small things we can do to help people feel seen and appreciated.

I have recently been thinking a lot about mattering. Does it matter if I can’t get to the meeting? Does it matter if I don’t exercise? Will I matter and have made a difference when I am no longer here on earth? I have come to the conclusion that mattering does matter. People want […]

02/09/2026

As part of our focus on the Butterfly Essentials, the foundational ingredients that make the Butterfly Approach distinct, this month we are looking at the importance of actively seeking team members with emotional intelligence.
In a sector facing significant recruitment challenges, can we afford to be that fussy? Perhaps the better question is, can we afford not to be?
How do we attract people with emotional intelligence? And how can we begin to assess it in a short interview?
Some of our partners have been creative with their recruitment advertising, asking questions such as:
"Are you a nurse who can give a good hug?"
"Do you know how to change a moment for someone?"
During interviews, we might also invite prospective team members to talk about a time in their own life when they struggled and what helped them through it. Their answer can offer deeper insights into self-awareness, empathy and their ability to understand the emotions of others.
Qualifications and experience matter, but in relationship-centred care, who someone is matters too. It's about BEING it, not just doing it.
Do you have ideas for how we find more care workers with these vital qualities?

02/09/2026

We love this idea - a unique ‘spin’ on a familiar activity! Well done Royal Rose!

02/09/2026

Putting up a washing line - an example of a low cost culture change action in a care home - what others can we share?

01/09/2026

Today is
Is the art of letter writing becoming a dying art?
Do you remember having a pen friend? Have you ever written a letter to a celebrity, a newspaper, or perhaps someone you hadn’t seen for a long time? Have you kept any love letters?
There is something very special about receiving a handwritten letter through the post. Unlike a text or email, it is something we can hold onto, reread and treasure for years to come.
Do any of the people you support have friends or family who live at a distance? Perhaps today is the perfect opportunity to sit together, put pen to paper and send them a letter.
It could also be a wonderful way to start conversations about letters people have written or received throughout their lives.
Can we bring back the joy of letter writing?

28/08/2026

“We want them to live their lives… to be in the moment, to find purpose in their life and to include them in everything…” Debbie Dollner, Chief Executive of the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust
We are excited to share a short film celebrating one of our newest Butterfly households in the UK, Admiral Jellicoe House The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZwzBGVovI8

26/08/2026

🩷 Remembering Dolly Parton 🎶

Dolly Parton’s music has been part of so many lives. Songs that become woven into our memories, our stories and the moments we share with others.

For someone living with dementia, hearing a favourite artist like Dolly can be a powerful way to reconnect with the past and spark recognition, emotion and conversation.

Maybe it’s Jolene. Maybe 9 to 5. Maybe a song only they know.

If Dolly was a favourite, put on her music. Sing along. Share the memory. Let the music do the talking.

💖 Because music can still connect us, even when words and memories become harder to find.

Discover more about the power of music in dementia care at our Music for Dementia homepage, and find YOUR music, free at m4dRADIO.com.

26/08/2026

We thank Dolly Parton for who she was and the joy she brought to many. We remember particularly the song ‘Love is like a Butterfly’ which has been the theme tune to many of our Butterfly training days. 🦋

NAPA are sorry to hear of the passing of the incomparable Dolly Parton.
A true icon of music and the arts.

For generations, Dolly brought people together through music, storytelling, humour and an unmistakable sense of joy. Her influence reached far beyond the stage, from her extraordinary songwriting and film career to her commitment to literacy, kindness and helping others.

To help care and community settings remember and celebrate her remarkable life, NAPA is sharing our new Remembering and Celebrating Dolly Parton activity toolkit.

Inside you’ll find opportunities to:
🎵 Listen, sing and share musical memories
💬 Talk about Dolly’s life, songs and story
🎨 Get creative with Dolly-inspired activities
🧩 Enjoy quizzes, a word search and crossword
📚 Explore her passion for books and literacy
💖 Reflect on kindness, dreams, determination and individuality

Whether individuals remember dancing to 9 to 5, have a favourite Dolly song or simply want to learn more about her extraordinary life, we hope this resource creates moments to remember, talk, create and celebrate together.

Download the resource here: https://napa-activities.org.uk/resources/remembering-and-celebrating-dolly-parton/

Remembering and celebrating Dolly Parton, 1946–2026. 💗

25/08/2026

Animal visits are a highlight for many people who live at The The Elliott Community a in , .
A cuddle with a fluffy and friendly cat is a source of joy and comfort and can bring back fond memories of furry family members.