Welcome to your
October '25
Newsletter
01
General Managers Update
October '25
Ann Marie Bowyer, General Manager
Hi Everyone,
As we head into autumn, I just want to say a huge thank you for everything you do each day. Your kindness, teamwork, and commitment continue to shine through — and it’s wonderful to see the difference you make to our customers and to one another.
This month, we’re celebrating one year since taking over the Scarborough franchise — what an achievement! The team there has done an incredible job building strong relationships and delivering exceptional care from day one.
We’ve also had brilliant feedback about our new uniforms, with customers saying how professional and smart you all look — a reflection of the pride you take in your roles.
A special mention to Ona Brown, who has retired after years of dedicated service. Ona, we’ll miss your warmth and positivity, and we wish you all the happiness in your new adventure in Lithuania.
Congratulations to Lynn on celebrating 10 years with Bluebird! Your dedication and hard work make you an invaluable part of our team – we’re so grateful to have you with us.
It’s lovely to see new faces joining our teams — and a big welcome back to Sharon, who has rejoined us as Care Coordinator in Newcastle and South Tyneside. It’s great to have you back on board!
I also want to give a special thank you to Danielle Rutter for all the fantastic work she does handling customer enquiries and helping new customers get started with us. Your hard work and friendly professionalism make such a difference, Danielle — thank you for all that you do.
Finally, it’s been great to see such strong word-of-mouth recommendations coming in. The fact that so many new customers hear about us from friends and family says so much about the quality of care you deliver every single day.
Thank you all again for your continued hard work and positivity.
02
Welcome to the Team
New starters
In September we welcome new faces to the team, please give them a warm welcome!
But we’ve also welcomed a fantastic group of new colleagues across the business, including:
- Francesca Grist – York
- Josie Hazell – South Tyneside
- Aimee Scammell – South Tyneside
Welcoming back Sharon Seaton
We’re thrilled to welcome back Sharon Seaton as a Care Coordinator! She missed us too much and realised there’s no place like Bluebird Care. Welcome back, Sharon – it’s wonderful to have you with us again
A very warm welcome to you all, we’re excited to have you on board!
Staff Appreciation
A huge congratulations to everyone who has successfully passed their probation or received their Care Certificate! We are incredibly proud of your progress and the dedication you’ve shown in your roles as care assistants. Please see the images below celebrating your achievements!
A Special Thank You to Danielle Rutter
We want to give a huge thank you to Danielle Rutter for the fantastic work she’s been doing handling customer enquiries and supporting new customers to get started with us. Over the past two months, Danielle has managed 75 enquiries — a significant increase — and has consistently received great feedback from customers. Her hard work, friendly professionalism, and quick, proactive approach make such a difference to both our customers and the team. Thank you, Danielle, for all that you do!
Well done Mark for passing your probation!
Staff Celebrations
You said, we did
Do you have a suggestion? Submit it by clicking the button down below.
Refer a friend
Take advantage of our £250 refer a friend fee!
Can you think of anyone who is kind, caring and compassionate? Can you think of anyone who would like a career in care? Can you think of anyone who would be an asset to our team?
Well, this could be your opportunity to take advantage of our refer a friend programme. If you refer someone into the business and they receive a job offer and successfully pass probation you will receive your £250 refer a friend payment!
Anyone who you think is up to the job can apply via our company website, when they complete the application form it asks if they know anyone who works at Bluebird, this is there time to state this!
03
Good News Stories
Wishing Ona Brown a Happy Retirement!
After years of dedication and hard work, Ona Brown is retiring and embarking on an exciting new chapter in her life — moving to Lithuania!
Ona has been a valued member of our team, always bringing warmth, kindness, and professionalism to everything she does. Her presence will be deeply missed, both by colleagues and the people she has cared for so passionately.
We want to wish Ona all the very best in her retirement and in her move to Lithuania. May this next chapter be filled with happiness, adventure, and plenty of time to enjoy the things she loves.
Thank you, Ona — you will be missed, but we’re excited for all that lies ahead for you!
Celebrating One Year in Scarborough!
This month marks one year since we taken over the Scarborough franchise, and what a year it has been! From day one, the team has been dedicated to providing premium care and support to our customers across the area.
We’ve loved getting to know the local community, supporting families, and making a real difference in people’s lives. It’s been a year full of new achievements, and heartwarming moments and we couldn’t have done it without our amazing staff and the trust of our customers.
Here’s to many more years of care, compassion, and community in Scarborough!
A Successful Comeback for Peter in Scarborough
Our customer, Peter, has made a fantastic recovery following his recent hospital stay and no longer requires care. A great success story for our team — well done to everyone involved!
We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our carers for the exceptional care they provided. Peter’s daughter recently shared that your support gave her family peace of mind while her dad was unwell, and she is delighted that he is now feeling much better.
We are incredibly proud of our team and grateful for the dedication and compassion they show every day.
Compliments All Round for Our Carers’ New Uniforms
We’re thrilled with the positive feedback on our carers’ new uniforms! Customers are noticing just how smart and professional our team looks. One customer even commented, “They all look very sharp.” A big well done to our carers for representing Bluebird Care so brilliantly!
Reminder- If you haven’t got your uniform, contact your office to arrange it!
10 Years with Bluebird Care with Lynn, Deputy Manager in York!
We celebrated Lynn’s 10 year work anniversary and here is a few words she had to share:
“Wow, 10 years! It’s hard to put into words just how much this journey has meant to me. From day one, I’ve been part of a team that doesn’t just work together but truly supports each other and cares deeply about the people we serve. Being part of Bluebird Care isn’t just a job; it’s being part of a family that genuinely cares for each other and, most importantly, for our customers. Everything we do revolves around their well-being and happiness. Seeing the difference we make in their lives, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply being there, is profoundly rewarding. I’ve been lucky to work with colleagues who inspire me every single day with their kindness, dedication, and professionalism. Looking back over the past decade, I feel proud, grateful, and incredibly lucky. Thank you all for the amazing gifts; they really mean so much. Here’s to the next chapter together, continuing to make a difference every single day!”
04
Content Corner
Elderly Accessible venues in
Newcastle, South Tyneside, Scarborough and York
Exploring new places and enjoying your local area should be easy and enjoyable for everyone. That’s why we’ve put together a selection of elderly-friendly and accessible venues in your city, from cosy cafés and historic museums to theatres and community spaces.
Each venue has been chosen for its welcoming atmosphere, helpful staff, and thoughtful accessibility features, so you can relax, socialise, and make the most of your day out.
Whether you’re planning a cultural visit, a gentle stroll, or a catch-up with friends, there’s something here to suit every pace and interest.
05
Health and Wellbeing
Nourishing Recipes and Nutrition Tips for a Healthy Body and Mind
As the weather turns cooler, our bodies naturally crave warm, comforting meals. Autumn is the ideal time to focus on nutrition that supports energy, strengthens the immune system, and promotes mental wellbeing. Below are some practical tips and simple meal ideas to help both carers and customers stay healthy and nourished this season.
1. Eating Seasonally for Better Health
Choosing seasonal produce can improve the nutritional quality of meals. Autumn brings a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
Some of the best seasonal options include:
Root vegetables: carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and turnips — high in vitamin A and antioxidants.
Pumpkins and squashes: rich in beta-carotene, supporting eye and skin health.
Apples and pears: good sources of fibre and vitamin C.
Leafy greens: kale, cabbage, and spinach — high in folate, iron, and calcium.
Including these foods in meals can help support immunity and maintain energy levels as temperatures drop.
2. Healthy, Warming Meal Ideas
Comfort foods can still be nutritious. Preparing simple, balanced meals helps to keep the body warm and provides essential nutrients.
Try including:
Lentil and vegetable soup: high in fibre and protein, easy to digest.
Slow-cooked chicken and barley stew: supports immune health with lean protein and whole grains.
Roasted root vegetables: a simple side dish rich in vitamins and natural sweetness.
Apple and cinnamon porridge: a warming, high-fibre breakfast option.
Batch cooking and freezing portions can save time and ensure healthy meals are always available.
3. Hydration in Cooler Weather
It’s easy to drink less in colder months, but hydration remains important for circulation, digestion, and energy.
Tips for maintaining good hydration:
Offer warm drinks such as herbal tea, warm water with lemon, or light soups.
Encourage regular sips throughout the day, even when not feeling thirsty.
Include water-rich foods like soups, stews, and fruits.
Older adults are more prone to dehydration, so carers should monitor fluid intake carefully.
4. Nutrition for Mood and Mental Wellbeing
Shorter days and less sunlight can affect mood and energy. Certain nutrients can help support mental health during the autumn and winter months.
Key nutrients include:
Omega-3 fatty acids: found in oily fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, and flaxseeds — support brain health and may reduce low mood.
B vitamins: found in whole grains, eggs, and leafy greens — essential for energy and nervous system health.
Magnesium and zinc: found in nuts, seeds, and legumes — help regulate mood and relaxation.
Including a variety of these foods can help maintain balanced energy and wellbeing throughout the season.
5. Autumn Recipe: Carrot and Coriander Soup
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
5 large carrots, peeled and sliced
1 litre vegetable stock
1 tsp ground coriander (or fresh coriander)
Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
Gently cook the onion in oil until soft.
Add the carrots and coriander, stir for a few minutes.
Add stock and simmer for 20 minutes until carrots are tender.
Blend until smooth, season, and serve warm.
“This recipe is quick, affordable, and perfect for batch cooking,” says Victoria. “It’s ideal for keeping warm and nourished on cooler days.”
6. Key Takeaway
Eating seasonal, warming meals and maintaining hydration are simple ways to support physical and emotional wellbeing in autumn.
At Bluebird Care, we encourage both carers and customers to prioritise healthy eating and self-care throughout the colder months. Balanced nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining good health, energy, and a positive outlook.
06
Looking Ahead
The Power of Our Reputation
We’re proud to share that over the past months, we’ve seen a strong lift in new enquiries — the highest we’ve had so far this year.
What’s even more encouraging is that a large number of people contacting us say they’ve heard about Bluebird Care through word of mouth. Whether it’s family, friends, or members of the local community, people are sharing positive feedback about our staff and the quality of care we provide.
This is a real testament to the outstanding work our teams do every single day. Every kind word, every act of kindness, and every moment of high-quality care makes a difference — and it’s being noticed.
We’re also excited about the care assessments our Care Management team have already booked in, which will soon translate into new customers joining our runs. This means we’ll be able to support even more people across our community — something we can all be incredibly proud of.
Thank you for continuing to build and uphold a reputation that truly speaks for itself.
Trick or Treating: Halloween Safety for the Elderly
Halloween is a wonderful time for fun, fancy dress, and community spirit — but it can also bring a few extra knocks at the door and spooky surprises! Whether you’re welcoming trick-or-treaters or simply enjoying a quiet evening in, it’s good to keep safety in mind.
For our older neighbours and customers:
- Keep lights on at the front door if you’re happy to greet visitors, or turn them off to let people know you’d prefer not to be disturbed.
- Avoid trip hazards by keeping paths, steps, and hallways clear — especially if you’re expecting visitors.
- Be cautious about answering the door late at night. If you’re unsure who it is, it’s perfectly fine not to open the door.
- Watch out for candles and decorations — they can be a fire risk. Battery-operated tealights are a safer option.
And if you’re joining in the fun, why not put out a small pumpkin or decoration to show you’re taking part? It’s a lovely way to feel connected to the community.
From all of us at Bluebird Care, we wish you a safe, happy, and treat-filled Halloween!
Can you support us on social media?
You might be surprised at just how far a simple like, comment, or share can go! We put a lot of effort into creating meaningful and engaging content, but we’d love to see more interaction from our own community.
If you spot something we’ve posted, please take a moment to like, comment, or share, it really does make a huge difference. Our campaigns are an important way of reaching new customers, and with your support, they can be even more effective. Thank you for helping us spread the word!
Video Projects
We’re already planning the next round of video projects, and we’d love more people to get involved — whether that’s sharing your story, supporting behind the scenes, or helping us shape future ideas.
If you’re interested, please contact erinkilford@bluebirdcare.co.uk
Community Engagement – Get Involved
As we continue to grow our presence and impact, we’re looking to involve more of our care staff in community-based initiatives, including local Dementia Cafés, support groups, and public awareness events.
These activities not only help raise awareness and support those living with dementia and other conditions, but they also help us build our brand, strengthen community ties, and showcase the amazing work our care teams do every day.
If you’re passionate about making a difference beyond day-to-day care, this is a great opportunity to get involved. Whether it’s attending an event, helping organise something locally, or simply representing Bluebird Care in your community — we’d love to hear from you.
To register your interest or find out more, please email: joemckenzie@bluebirdcare.co.uk
Thank you for reading — and thank you for the care, compassion, and commitment you show every day.
See you in the next edition!
