Local insights
Sharing local Oxford information with you
One Year at Home: A Bluebird Care Story
This story, shared by our Customer Care Manager Vicki, is one that means a great deal to her and to us as a team. In August 2024, a customer we now support returned home after a stay in a care home. She was living with advanced Alzheimer’s and needed a complex care package: double-handed care four times a day and overnight waking support. Unfortunately, just before her discharge, several other care providers pulled out. Her daughter was left feeling completely overwhelmed, unsure where to turn and all she wanted was to bring her mum home. That’s when Bluebird Care stepped in. It was Vicki’s very first care package after becoming Customer Care Manager, which is why it’s held such a special place in her heart. When the customer first arrived home, she was extremely anxious, often crying or shouting during personal care. It was a very difficult time for both her and her daughter. But now, nearly a year later, the change is remarkable. She’s much calmer, more and thriving in the comfort of her own home. Her daughter tells us how much it means to have her mum back where she belongs and how grateful she is for the care and support we’ve provided along the way. This story is a true reflection of what we aim for every day at Bluebird Care, helping people live well at home with dignity, compassion and the support they deserve.
Supporting Our People – Every Step of the Way
We believe that supporting our people’s mental health and wellbeing is not just important—it's essential. We’re committed to creating a culture where everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered to take care of their mental and physical health. As part of this commitment, we’ve recently launched YuLife, a dynamic wellbeing platform that helps our team stay healthy and engaged. YuLife includes an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) offering professional mental health support, along with 24/7 GP access—giving our employees confidential and immediate help when they need it most. YuLife goes beyond traditional benefits by using gamified wellness programs to encourage healthy habits. From step challenges and meditation to cycling, brain training and workouts, the platform turns positive actions into real rewards such as vouchers, discounts, and opportunities to give back—like tree planting and ocean cleaning. We’re proud that over 70% of our team have already signed up, with more than half actively engaging on a regular basis. In addition to YuLife, we have trained Mental Health First Aiders across our offices and our group functions. These individuals are equipped to offer initial support, recognise early signs of mental health issues, and most importantly—to listen. They serve as a vital point of contact to help colleagues access further professional support when needed. This has included using wellbeing action plans to ensure that we are supporting day to day working for our teams and Art therapy sessions to provide an emotional outlet, reduce stress and provide mental clarity. To further foster open dialogue and support, we also host a monthly Wellbeing Forum—a safe, confidential space where colleagues can drop in for a chat, share concerns, or simply check in with how they’re feeling. This Mental Health Awareness Week, and every week, we continue to prioritise the wellbeing of our people—because when our people thrive, we all thrive.
Brenda Wins Overseas Recruitment Award at Oxfordshire Care Awards
We are thrilled to announce that Brenda, a valued team member at Bluebird Care Oxford, has been named the winner of the Overseas Recruitment Award at the Oxfordshire Care Awards 2025. Brenda joined us in July 2022 as one of our first international recruits through the sponsorship visa route. From day one, she impressed us with her professionalism, kindness, and commitment, qualities that have since seen her progress from Care Assistant to a senior role, supporting both our care team and office operations. This award recognises the incredible impact Brenda has had, not only in helping staff settle into their roles, but also in mentoring and supporting others across the business. She leads by example, always offering solutions, encouraging development and upholding the highest standards of care. Brenda’s work embodies what we stand for at Bluebird Care, empowering our team, supporting our community, and delivering compassionate, high-quality care. Her leadership and dedication make her a key part of our success and we couldn’t be prouder of her well-deserved recognition. Congratulations, Brenda! Your contribution continues to shape the future of care in Oxfordshire.
From Domiciliary to Live-In Care: Mr V’s Story
Mr V began his journey with Bluebird Care in 2017, initially receiving domiciliary care. At the time, his mobility had started to decline, something he found particularly challenging, especially as he could still recall fond memories of his active days spent walking the dog and playing golf. Having the support of Bluebird Care’s domiciliary carers gave Mr V the independence he valued. It allowed him to maintain his daily routines, feel safe in his own home, and most importantly, be treated with dignity and respect. The carers were professional, compassionate, and had reassuring qualities that made a significant difference in Mr V’s experience. As time went on, Mr V required further support with a delegated healthcare task. The team at Bluebird Care stepped in swiftly to coordinate this additional support, taking any pressure off Mr V and ensuring a smooth and timely transition. The additional care visits were quickly arranged and implemented by the management team, allowing Mr V to continue receiving care without any disruption or concern. Throughout this period, Mr V was fortunate to have the loving support of his wife, Mrs V, who assisted with his additional needs. However, when Mrs V experienced a change in her own mobility, the couple recognised the need to adapt their care package to ensure their safety and continued independence for them both. Together, they decided the most appropriate option was to move from domiciliary care to Bluebird Care’s Live-In Care service. This would enable them to remain at home, surrounded by their familiar comforts and memories, while receiving the level of support they both required. Initially, Mr and Mrs V where a little apprehensive about the idea of someone living in their home. However, from the outset, the process was managed with great care and consideration. Natasha, the Care Development Lead, arranged a Teams meeting for Mrs. V with the proposed carer who was felt to be a good match for the couple. The connection was instant, particularly for Mrs V, and Mr V felt equally reassured when he returned home from a short period of respite. Since then, Mr and Mrs V have been thoroughly delighted with their Live-In Carer, who they now describe as part of the family. The carer supports them both throughout the day, providing compassionate, tailored care that allows them to continue living safely and comfortably in the place they love most; together at home. The support they’ve received has been centred around trust, empathy, and understanding. Thanks to Bluebird Care, Mr and Mrs V feel confident, safe, and most importantly, still in control of their lives.
Mel Fairchild’s ADHD Journey
Mel Fairchild, Operations Director at Bluebird Care, was officially diagnosed with ADHD in September 2023 after years of trying to understand her behaviours. It was a relief to finally have an explanation for things she had struggled with for so long. “I started noticing behaviours that might come across as rude, and that really upset me because I would never want to be rude to anyone,” Mel says. “Getting my diagnosis helped me understand that my brain just works differently, and that’s okay.” Mel has always needed structure and finds it difficult when things don’t go to plan. However, she stays calm in a crisis, even though small things can sometimes cause her stress. Instead of seeing ADHD as a challenge, she uses it to her advantage. “It’s made me determined to succeed, to lead, and to be open and honest with people. I see things from a different perspective, and that helps me handle stress in my own way.” In past jobs, Mel didn’t always feel comfortable talking about her struggles. When she did share her diagnosis, she sometimes felt judged, like she wasn’t good enough. At home, ADHD has had its challenges too, but having a supportive partner has made all the difference. Now, at Bluebird Care, Mel has found a workplace where she feels valued. “I’m so lucky to have amazing managers and a great team. They don’t see me as different or quirky—they just see me as me. One of my strengths is that my brain retains a lot of information and I can process it really quickly, so in a crisis I’m able to solve problems fast and my team embrace these ‘sprinkling my fairy dust’ ways, I honestly couldn’t work for a better company.” Her advice for Neurodiversity Celebration Week? “Embrace it! Be yourself. The right people will support you and create a safe space where you can truly thrive.” Mel’s story is about self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of being in an environment where neurodivergent people are valued and supported.
Celebrating Dignity Action Day with Bluebird Care Oxford
At Bluebird Care Oxford, dignity is at the heart of everything we do. As we celebrate Dignity Action Day, treating our customers with the utmost respect, ensuring they feel valued, heard and supported in all aspects of their care, remains our top priority. Dignity Action Day is a nationwide initiative led by the Dignity in Care Campaign. The day aims to promote the importance of dignity in care services, encouraging health and social care providers to uphold the principles of dignity in everyday interactions. It is an opportunity to raise awareness, celebrate best practices and encourage individuals and organisations to take action in improving the care experience for all. We believe dignity should be embedded in every aspect of care and take great pride in ensuring that: • Person-centred care is at the forefront of our services, tailoring support to customer needs and preferences. • Independence is promoted, empowering our customers to make their own choices and maintain control over their lives. • Privacy and respect are upheld, ensuring customers feel safe and comfortable in their own homes. • Compassionate communication is practiced, with our care assistants taking the time to listen, understand and engage meaningfully with those they support. Dignity Action Day is not just for care professionals, it’s a call to action for everyone. Here are some ways you can participate: • Raise awareness by sharing information about dignity in care with family, friends, and your community. • Show appreciation for care workers who go above and beyond to uphold dignity in their roles. • Encourage conversations with loved ones about their needs, preferences, and experiences in receiving care. • Make a pledge to support dignity in your everyday interactions, whether at home, work, or in the wider community. As we mark Dignity Action Day, Bluebird Care Oxford invites everyone, customers, families, care assistants and the wider community to join us in promoting a culture of dignity and respect. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those receiving care.
Bluebird Care Oxford, West Oxfordshire, South Oxfordshire Named Finalist for Live-in Care Expertise
We are delighted to announce that Bluebird Care Oxford, West Oxfordshire, South Oxfordshire has been shortlisted for the Live-in Care Expert Award at this year’s Homecare Awards. This recognition celebrates our commitment to providing exceptional, personalised live-in care that supports customers in remaining safe and comfortable in their own homes. Our Live-in Care service focuses on delivering tailored care plans that address each customer’s unique needs, from assistance with daily tasks to providing emotional support. Whether helping with personal care, medication management, or adapting home environments for accessibility, we ensure our customers feel empowered and supported every step of the way. Key examples of our Live-in Care success include: • Seamless Transitions: Supporting customers with complex needs, such as severe brain injuries or challenging behaviours, by working closely with families and existing care teams to ensure smooth transitions into our care. • Personalised Care Plans: Adapting care services to meet evolving needs, whether for recovery after surgery, long-term support, or temporary respite care. • Promoting Independence and Wellbeing: Helping customers achieve their personal goals, from regaining independence after an illness to maintaining social connections and enjoying daily routines in their familiar home environment. Live-in Care at Bluebird Care is about more than meeting physical needs; it’s about building trust, fostering independence, and enabling customers to live the life they choose in the place they feel most comfortable. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our team and the trust our customers and their families place in us. We are proud to be leaders in live-in care and remain committed to providing the highest quality service.