A Decade of Passionate, Person-Centered Care at The Oaks

As The Oaks Care Home celebrates its 10th anniversary, we look back on a decade of providing exceptional care, fostering independence, and making a lasting impact on the Baillieston community. The Oaks has become a beacon of support for individuals living with mental health challenges, promoting a nurturing and inclusive environment that goes beyond traditional care.

The Impact on the Local Community

Over the past 10 years, The Oaks has woven itself into the fabric of Baillieston. The home is more than just a place for residents—it's a vital part of the local community, where relationships have been built, friendships fostered, and a deep connection to the surrounding area has been established. From local childminders’ collaborations during the pandemic, to festive celebrations and community engagements, The Oaks has embraced its role as a pillar of support, ensuring residents are not isolated but rather actively engaged with the wider world.

A standout initiative has been the partnership with the local school children, where drawings and festive cards from students have brightened the lives of residents. These thoughtful gestures have gone a long way in breaking the stigma often associated with mental health care facilities. Community involvement has also extended into regular outings, whether it's a trip to the theatre, attending music festivals, or simply visiting local shops and cafes, providing residents with a sense of normalcy and independence.

Person-Centered Care: The Heart of The Oaks

At The Oaks, every resident is treated with dignity, respect, and an individualised care plan that caters to their specific needs and aspirations. Whether it’s supporting someone like Gary, who has been working towards rebuilding his confidence after a traumatic brain injury, or K, a young woman with autism and schizophrenia who has blossomed in our supportive environment, The Oaks delivers care that goes beyond medical needs. The focus here is on promoting independence, mental well-being, and social connection.

Innovative therapies such as music and art therapy have become integral to enhancing residents' mental health. Residents are encouraged to participate in a variety of creative and recreational activities, such as baking classes, painting, yoga, and even attending the GBX Nightclub, allowing them to engage in joyful, fulfilling experiences. These activities are not only fun but also serve as therapeutic outlets, fostering emotional well-being and social interaction.

Celebrating the Achievements of Residents

At the core of The Oaks is its commitment to celebrating the achievements of its residents. Whether it's through personal recognition awards, participating in language courses, or achieving life goals, The Oaks empowers residents to reach their full potential. For example, residents Kirsty and Lily achieved a National 2 certificate in French, an accomplishment that was even featured in the Glasgow Times. These milestones are more than just educational— they are powerful confidence boosters that highlight the importance of lifelong learning and self-improvement.

The Recovery Star tool has also played a pivotal role in tracking the progress of residents, allowing them to set personal goals and map their journey towards recovery. This personalised approach ensures that residents can live independently, whilst visualising and celebrating their growth.

Transforming the Care Landscape in Scotland

The care provided at The Oaks is a shining example of Scotland's evolving care landscape. Mental health care is often complex, requiring not only clinical support but also a compassionate, person-centered approach that considers every aspect of a resident’s life. Over the past decade, The Oaks has demonstrated how care homes can provide a transformative environment for individuals living with mental health conditions.

In Scotland, where mental health issues are on the rise, The Oaks stands as a model of best practice. By fostering an inclusive environment that champions recovery and personal growth, The Oaks has positioned itself as a leader in the field of mental health care, inspiring other facilities to adopt similar strategies. Our colleagues, led by Home Manager, Julie Stevenson, have created a space where every resident feels valued, respected, and empowered to live life to the fullest.

Looking Forward: The Next 10 Years

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we are filled with pride for all that has been accomplished over the past decade. But this is only the beginning. The Oaks is committed to continuing its journey of excellence, embracing new technologies, and finding even more innovative ways to support its residents.

The care landscape in Scotland is evolving, and The Oaks will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of person-centered mental health care. With a dedicated team, a supportive community, and a compassionate approach to care, we look forward to the next decade of making a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents.

Ten years at The Oaks Care Home is not just a celebration of time but of lives transformed, connections made, and communities strengthened. As we look back on this journey, we are reminded of the power of compassionate care and the incredible difference it makes in people’s lives. Here’s to another decade of delivering exceptional, person-centered care, enriching both the residents and the wider Baillieston community.