In this episode, of the Care CEO Success Stories podcast, host Adam James of Springup PR, interviews Larry Grady, Chief Executive of Purley Park Trust that supports adults with learning disabilities.

Larry shares insights from his extensive experience in social care, highlighting the critical difference between stated values and the behaviours that underpin them.

He emphasises that the real impact of care comes from personal interactions and the attitudes of staff rather than just the organisation's mission statement.

Larry discusses the significance of creating a culture where behaviours are continuously observed, learned from, and improved upon.

He advocates for direct engagement with staff to foster a sense of community and support.

Larry illustrates the necessity for open conversations and shared learning to enhance care quality by addressing the challenges faced in the care industry, particularly concerning staff morale and the need for continuous learning in an evolving environment.

Larry provides practical advice for care leaders on prioritising behaviours that align with values, emphasising that genuine care is not only about procedures but also about how staff connect with those they support, including:

Key Takeaways:

• Recognising the gap between stated values and actual behaviours in care organisations.

• Prioritising personal interactions in care delivery to enhance resident experiences.

• Fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement through behaviour observation.

• Engaging directly with staff to build relationships and promote open communication.

• Addressing operational challenges by creating an environment of support and collaboration.

• Emphasising the importance of staff morale and well-being in delivering quality care.

• Learning from real-life situations to develop better practices in care delivery.

• Promoting a strategic approach to care management that aligns values with behaviours.

• Encouraging feedback from both staff and residents to inform care practices.

• Advocating for transparent communication within teams and with families to build trust.