Dare to Care is a pilot pathway with the aim of developing an integrated volunteer project in health and social care. At all stages, the goals of the project were to strengthen and support the workforce in care homes, which currently face challenges in recruitment and retention, and to provide more support to people in receipt of care.
The initial stage of the pathway was launched in June 2021 in Blackpool and Fleetwood, with a second phase commencing in March 2022 which showed the project expand into Central Lancashire and Pennine Lancashire whilst including a digital element.
Despite some clear challenges with recruitment during the Covid-19 pandemic, there were been positive experiences in both phases of the Dare to Care project in all areas. Volunteers learned new skills and enjoyed interacting with care home residents. Care home managers have had positive experiences with volunteers who have been able to socialise with residents, leaving more time for staff to carry out their caring role. Positive feedback was also received from care home managers and residents about Nyby, demonstrating that digital resources can be utilised to help with volunteer coordination.
This report is an evaluation of the Dare to Care pilot programme from Healthwatch Lancashire. The evaluation includes activity and feedback gathered from Fleetwood, Blackpool, Central Lancashire and Pennine Lancashire from June 2021-March 2023.
Recommendations have been formulated to aid anyone looking to address the ongoing care crisis in their local area through improving collaboration between local government, NHS teams, care homes, charities, volunteers and the private sector.
Read the report, find out more about volunteer experiences and view our recommedations
| Dare to Care: Evaluation Report | Download File (pdf 454.76 KB) |