The power of a person-centred approach to care

The term ‘person-centred care’ is used frequently across the health and social care sector, but what it really means is often blurry. The NHS describes it as focusing care on the needs of an individual, ensuring those needs, preferences, and personal values guide every clinical decision made for them.

But to us, it goes far beyond the act of simply meeting someone’s individual needs. It’s about truly understanding the person behind the care – who they are, what makes them smile, their hobbies, their beliefs, and what independence looks like to them – so we can deliver the highest standard of support in the long term.

Often, the smallest things can have the biggest impact. Knowing how a resident likes their morning cup of tea, taking the time to understand what they did for work, or even playing their favourite music – it all goes a long way in elevating their overall care experience.

Every resident at Fortava has a unique life story. We believe it’s our responsibility to help them add new pages to that same book, because they should never feel they have to stop being themselves.

Here’s how we approach person-centred care:

Working in partnership with families

We’ll never know our residents as deeply as their loved ones do. That’s why we work closely with every family to not only paint a fuller picture of each resident, but to ensure key decisions about their care are made collaboratively.

We also share regular reviews and progress updates, so families feel confident that their loved one is in the safest hands. They are also always encouraged to share personal insights or suggestions that could help us tailor our approach even further.

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)

We offer regular group CST sessions, where residents can take part in a range of stimulating activities designed to keep them engaged and connected, while supporting cognitive function.

With specialist Engagement Therapists on hand, we focus on filling this time with genuinely meaningful activities, that are tailored to each individual’s personal preferences. We also encourage residents and their families to guide us towards what they enjoy most.

Embedding person-centred care in our values

Our Dr BOB values shape how we deliver care that truly transforms lives, and a person-centred approach flows strongly through each one:

• Dignity – We listen and act on every resident’s personal choices
• Respect – We value every resident and the life they lived before joining Fortava
• Best we can be – We continually improve our care in line with residents’ needs
• Open, honest and fair – We build trusting relationships with residents and their families
• Believe in your ability – We empower our teams to take the time needed to truly understand our residents

To us, person-centred care isn’t something we ‘do’ – it’s firmly embedded in our culture. It forms a crucial part of every conversation, decision, and smile we strive to create across our homes.

Our aim isn’t simply to provide excellent care. It’s to know every resident as an individual, honour their life story, and help them continue living with dignity, purpose, and joy. A person-centred approach to care makes this possible.