The Chief Inspector for Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales has launched her annual report at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s flagship project which provides the best care possible for residents with dementia.

Imelda Richardson said the Council’s groundbreaking Butterfly Project at Clydach Court was a shining example of what can be achieved.

The families and carers of those who live at the Rhondda Cynon Taf Council-run Clydach Court say they have experienced a noticeable difference in levels of happiness, engagement, independence and even improvement as a result of the Butterfly Project.

Imelda Richardson, who was accompanied on her visit by Gwenda Thomas, the Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services, was full of praise of Clydach Court while publishing her annual report.

She said: “This report recognises the improvements that have been made in social care services, as well as those significant improvements that are still needed.

“What is clear to me is the commitment and hard work of all those people who work across this sector to provide support to many vulnerable people who rely on these crucial services.

“As part of our engagement consultation, we have worked hard to listen to what people who use services have to say, so that we can act on it.

"Social care is a big part of the lives of so many people in Wales and Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales is committed to working with all concerned, so that our organisation can become an increasingly powerful force for improvement in social care services.”

Staff at Clydach Court worked with Dementia Care Matters to improve the quality of life of the people living there and achieved Butterfly Status in July 2012.

The Council has spent a year implementing the project and training its dedicated staff at Clydach Court, leading to the home becoming one of just five in the UK to secure the highest-possible accreditation, Level One Status.

The success of the project and, most importantly, the positive impact it has had on the quality of life of residents in the home, is now recognised across Wales.

Clydach Court was chosen as the venue to launch the annual report.

He said it was in recognition of the hard work of the staff, residents and their families and friends in making the Butterfly Project such a massive success.

“Rhondda Cynon Taf Council made something of a brave decision by agreeing to the Butterfly Project, which is a new approach to dementia care and certainly something that had never been seen in this region.

“The fresh, innovative approach introducing sensory, domestic, play, movement and musical items into the home has created a stimulating new environment which has brought a new life force into the home.”

The Butterfly Project has seen a total transformation in the environment at Clydach Court, creating a fun, vibrant and stimulating environment that allows people to imagine, remember or develop as they wish.

Staff at the home do not wear uniforms but instead wear colourful clothes to give a homely feel and reduce barriers.

The walls are covered with colourful pictures, displays and collages that depict the former occupations, interests and hobbies of the residents. The communal areas are filled with boxes of props – from handbags, hats and scarves to dolls and games – that the residents can explore and use as they wish.

Open outdoor spaces where residents can potter are also essential to the success of the project. One of the vast lounges can also be transformed into an in-house club, where residents can enjoy quiz nights and karaoke sessions.

There is even an old-fashioned sweet cart where residents can select treats whenever they choose and at meal times, diners also have the opportunity to prepare their meals and serve themselves to promote independence and a taste of home.

To find out more about Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s innovative Butterfly Project call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Social Services on 01443 425003 or Email socialservices@rctcbc.gov.uk

http://www.rctcbc.gov.uk/communitycare