Nightingale Hammerson bucks trend of high staff turnover in care homes

Nightingale care staff (Photo: Ian McGlasham)[Missing Credit]

The organisation provides in-house psychological support and “open, safe spaces”, where colleagues are able to share their working experiences. “Looking after mental health is not an added extra, it is fundamental to sustaining a resilient workforce,” said Pattinson.

But she added that the key to their success was their commitment to research and professional development, and teams were often involved directly in research projects and innovation.

“[Staff] see the evidence behind new approaches, contribute their own insights and witness the positive change that follows,” said Pattinson.

“When colleagues recognise that they are part of developing the social care sector, helping to shape better models of dementia support, end-of-life care or therapeutic activity, their work takes on new meaning.”

Pattinson said that many team members were encouraged to achieve clinical and professional qualifications, enabling them to progress through the organisation, often going on to mentor new employees. “Standards rise and recruitment becomes easier because Nightingale Hammerson is known as a place where people are valued.”

Nightingale Hammerson CEO Jo Pattinson[Missing Credit]

Pattinson said that high staff retention meant that the relationship between staff and residents was stronger. “When teams stay, they come to understand the subtle preferences, histories and personalities of the people they support. Trust grows, communication improves, our care becomes more intuitive and compassionate, and continuity allows outstanding practice to flourish.”

In 2025, Nightingale Hammerson was named Care Employer of the Year at the Great British Care awards for the second-year running.

In the past year, the UK care sector has been hit by recruitment challenges due to new immigration rules, including closure of the health and care worker visa and care workers no longer being able to bring family members to the UK. The cost to sponsor an overseas worker has risen and applicants are now required to meet a higher minimum standard of English.