Meet Richard Asbridge

Our Care Manager

Who am I?

My name is Richard Asbridge, and I have been in my current role since January 2018 when I moved to Cornwall from Yorkshire. I love my job and the ethos of Home Instead Truro, Falmouth and Redruth as it aligns with my own views and aspirations.

Prior to moving to Home Instead I worked in a number of other care roles including domiciliary care, adults with autism and associated physical difficulties, young adults with physical disabilities in supported living, in schools for children aged 5 to 16 years with profound multiple physical disabilities and a spell managing a care recruitment desk.

In total I have over 45 years of experience in care work.

The main point of contact for families

As a Care Manager I have the legal and professional responsibility for overseeing and coordinating the delivery of care services to clients living in their own home. I, supported my office team, act as the main point of contact for clients, their families, and the Care Professional team, ensuring that all aspects of care are tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each individual. My role is very diverse, encompassing assessment, planning, coordination, and evaluation, all while maintaining high standards of quality care and compliance with regulatory requirements.

When a new client or their family contact Home Instead I will be the one who would be the first point of contact. I begin by conducting a thorough assessment of the client’s physical, emotional, and social needs. This involves understanding the client’s medical conditions, daily living activities, personal preferences, and home environment. By gathering this detailed information, I and my team can create a personalised care plan that addresses both immediate needs and longer-term goals. Once the assessment is complete, we develop an individual care plan, which outlines the type of services required, such as personal care, including medication management, or home help (including meal preparation or light housekeeping) and our companionship service.  I would then co-ordinate with Sian, the Head of Care Professional Experience, the Care Professional team, healthcare professionals, and any other relevant parties to ensure that the care plan is supporting the client’s needs.

Enabling your loved one to continue to enjoy living at home

I have found more recently as the population of Cornwall ages, the preference to live at home has also grown and domiciliary care, also known as home care, has become an increasingly popular option for those needing support. It is my view and the view of Home Instead that providing high-quality, individualised care in the comfort of the clients home requires careful co-ordination and management. This is where my role as Care Manager becomes essential.

Family liaison and client advocacy

A key part of my role is to serve as a liaison between the client, their family, and the care team. This enables me to ensure the family are kept informed about the client’s progress, as well as the care team. I advocate for the client’s best interests, ensuring that their wishes are respected and that they receive the best possible care. This communication and advocacy are crucial in building trust and providing a supportive care environment.

Managing changing needs

Care needs often change suddenly or can change over time, so regular monitoring and evaluation are essential. I like to keep in touch with all my clients and review the effectiveness of the care plan and makes necessary adjustments with the team to accommodate the client’s changing needs. I also, alongside Sian our Head of Care Professional Experience, ensure that the Care Professionals are providing high-quality care and adhering to best practices and Home Instead standards.

Enhancing quality of life and reducing stress

I believe that as the Care Manager I can significantly enhance the quality of life for our clients. By providing personalised care and support plans, my team and I enable our clients to maintain their independence and dignity while living comfortably in their own homes.  This helps to reduce the stress and burden on family members who can be reassured that their loved ones are receiving professional and compassionate care.

Supporting physical and emotional needs

I also play a pivotal role in promoting holistic well-being.  Our whole approach is focussed on our belief that we need to support our clients physical, emotional and social needs – including helping our clients stay connected and engaged with their local community. I feel that this comprehensive approach is vital in promoting positive health outcomes and enhancing overall life satisfaction.

Ensuring regulatory compliance

I am responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the care delivered comply with the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) regulatory requirements, as well as Home Instead own stringent standards. Working closely with Sian, I also have overall responsibility for ensuring that we provide comprehensive training and support to our Care Professionals. I conduct home safety assessments and implement risk management to prevent accidents or adverse event, ensuring we create a safe and supportive environment for both our clients and Care Professionals.

Delivering quality and consistency of care

I feel that my role is a cornerstone of quality and consistency and that my past experiences, expertise, dedication, and compassion to ensuring clients receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs, in the comfort of their own homes.

As the demand for quality care at home continues to grow, my role as the Care Manager will remain indispensable in helping individuals live safely, comfortably, and with dignity in their homes for as long as they choose to do so.