Dementia Lead
Job Description
Job Title: Dementia Lead ( Non - clinical)
\nReporting to:Home Manager
\nJob Summary:
\nTo positively support and assist the Home Manager in providing Dementia support and leadership in the day-to-day management of the home. Uphold and actively promote the homes values and philosophy so each day is the best it can be for residents and staff.
\nThe Dementia Lead is responsible for overseeing and enhancing the quality of care provided to residents living with dementia. This role ensures that care practices are person-centred, evidence-based, and aligned with best practice standards. The Dementia Lead will act as a champion for dementia care within the home, supporting staff development, improving resident wellbeing, and fostering a supportive environment for residents and their families.
\nPrinciple responsibilities of the role:
\n1. Leadership & Oversight
\nLead the development and implementation of dementia care strategies within the home
\nWork one shift a week on the rota, working directly alongside the care team and the remainder of the time would be supernumerary with the expectation that shifts may need to be covered as required to support the running of the home
\nAct as the subject matter expert on dementia care best practices
\nSupport the management team in delivering high-quality, compliant care
\nPromote a culture of dignity, respect, and person-centred care
\n2. Staff Training & Development
\nPlan and deliver dementia-specific training for care staff
\nMentor and support staff in managing complex dementia-related behaviours
\nEnsure all team members understand and apply person-centred approaches
\nIdentify training needs and support continuous professional development
\nMonitor standards of care through informal 1-2-1s, formal supervision, communication and internal reviews. To have involvement in annual staff appraisals where instructed by the General Manager.
\nIdentify and rectify record keeping deficiencies through supervision, training and corrective action as directed by the Home Manager
\nFully participate in the training of staff in line with the Companys training schedule and on an ad hoc basis where instructed by the Home Manager.
\nTake responsibility for own familiarity with and adherence to company policies and procedures. Assist the Home Manager to ensure the same amongst the staff.
\nDemonstrate flexibility in working times to allow meetings, support and development to be undertaken with the night team
\n3. Resident Care & Wellbeing
\nAssist the Home Manager to enable residents to live as full, active and independent a life as their physical and mental capacity will allow. To build up their self-confidence and encourage physical, intellectual and social activities both inside and outside the Home.
\nOversee care planning to ensure it reflects individual needs, preferences, and life history
\nSupport staff in managing distressed behaviours in a compassionate and effective manner
\nImplement meaningful activities and therapeutic interventions for residents
\nMonitor outcomes and continuously improve quality of life for residents
\n4. Family & Stakeholder Engagement
\nBuild strong relationships with residents families and carers
\nCommunicate with residents' relatives, keeping them informed of any changes in the residents' condition.
\nOrganise and participate in regular relatives meetings.
\nProvide guidance and emotional support to families navigating dementia care
\nWork collaboratively with external professionals (e.g. GPs, specialists, community services)
\nAssist in protecting and promoting the esteemed reputation of the home and the company within the local community and beyond
\n5. Quality Assurance & Compliance
\nEnsure dementia care practices meet regulatory and organisational standards
\nParticipate in audits, inspections, and quality improvement initiatives
\nMaintain accurate records and documentation
\nShare responsibility with the Home Manager to undertake Resident Reviews, adhering to the schedule laid down by the Company.
\n6. Environment & Innovation
\nPromote a dementia-friendly environment within the home
\nAssist the Home Manager in ensuring the general environment is maintained to a high standard
\nIntroduce innovative approaches to care, including sensory and reminiscence therapies
\nStay up to date with research and best practices in dementia care
\nAssist the Home Manager to ensure that the Home has a happy and safe atmosphere by exercising professional leadership and co-ordinating the work of all grades of staff creating a climate of wellbeing, security and efficiency. Demonstrate best practice in your work activities and adhere strictly to company systems and policies
\nOther responsibilities:
\nParticipate in the interviewing and selection of staff when required by the Home Manager.
\nAssist the Home Manager to ensure that accidents, incidents and complaints are reported, recorded and monitored in a timely and appropriate manner.
\nAssist the Home Manager to undertake any investigations as required in line with company policies.
\nAssist the Home Manager to ensure action plans as a result of Health and Safety Audits are implemented throughout the Home.
\nDemonstrate a flexible approach to your shift pattern, to ensure the duties of the role are fulfilled and the home is safely staffed including some weekend working and taking of the on call rota.
\nTake personal responsibility in becoming fully aware of Health & Safety at Work Policies in particular Fire Procedures, COSHH and Moving and Handling Policies and maintaining the security of the building.
\nAny other reasonable duties as may be required from time to time.
\nPerson Specification
\nEssential:
\nRelevant health or social care qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 3/4/5 or equivalent)
\nSignificant experience working with individuals living with dementia
\nStrong leadership and mentoring skills
\nExcellent communication and interpersonal abilities
\nKnowledge of person-centred care principles and dementia care frameworks
\nDesirable:
\nSpecialist dementia qualification or training
\nExperience in a senior or supervisory role within a care setting
\nUnderstanding of regulatory CQC requirements
\nKey Competencies:
\nCompassionate and empathetic approach
\nStrong problem-solving and decision-making skills
\nAbility to manage challenging situations calmly and effectively
\nCommitment to continuous improvement and high-quality care
\nAdditional Information:
\nThe role may require flexibility to work shifts, including weekends
\nOngoing training and development opportunities will be provided
\nEnhanced DBS check required
\nSummary:
\nThis is a pivotal role within the care home, ensuring residents living with dementia receive exceptional, person-centred care. The Dementia Lead will influence practice, inspire staff, and make a meaningful difference to the lives of residents and their families.
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