Training
Our Staff, Our Strength
Our carers are highly trained they have a continuous training programme, and work closely with the district nursing team, meaning that many of our care staff are able to administer the same treatment that a nurse would.
But more than qualifications, they bring love. They listen, they sit with residents, and they form bonds that cross generations.
This is why Somerforde feels different. Staff don’t see this as “just a job” they see it as career and a family.
Putting Staff First
We believe that staff are at the heart of everything we do. If our team feel valued, supported, and fulfilled, that positivity flows directly to our residents. It’s why we’ve had such low staff turnover, and why many join us young and stay for years, building their careers with us.
We invest heavily in training and qualifications, supporting our staff from their very first NVQ right through to higher levels. For every NVQ achieved, we celebrate with them. Staff development isn’t a box ticking exercise here; it’s part of our culture.
The result? Consistent, skilled, and happy carers who know our residents inside out. That consistency gives families peace of mind the same faces, the same voices, the same care, every day.
Training and Growth: A Place to Belong and to Flourish
Somerforde is not just a workplace, it’s a place where people grow. Staff join us from all walks of life, often not knowing if care is the right career for them but quickly discovering a passion they never expected.
We actively support our staff in developing their skills. This isn’t mandatory, it’s driven by their own pride and commitment. As one said, “They want to be the best. They want to work hard.”
This dedication ensures that the people looking after your loved one are not only caring, but highly skilled with the confidence, knowledge, and support to give exceptional care every day.
FAQs
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The difference is in the people. Many of our staff have been with us for years, creating a real sense of family and familiarity. We haven’t needed agency staff for over seven years, which means residents are always cared for by people they know and trust. Families often tell us they can feel the warmth and connection the moment they walk through the door, it’s not just care, it’s belonging.
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We believe that by caring for our staff, they can give their very best to residents. Every team member receives thorough training and ongoing support, with opportunities to gain qualifications from NVQ Level 2 through to Level 5. Many choose to progress through multiple levels, not because they have to, but because they’re proud of what they do. We also celebrate every achievement, big or small, because personal growth is part of Somerforde’s culture.
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Absolutely. For our team, Somerforde is a home as much as a workplace. Many describe their colleagues and residents as family, people they share laughter, stories, and life moments with. That emotional connection translates into genuinely compassionate care. As one team member put it, “This isn’t a job. This is part of our family.”
““This isn’t a job working here. This is part of our family. We spend more time here than we do at home.””