Pilot Trial of the Shiny Mind App

At Cavendish Homecare, we understand that looking after our team is just as important as the exceptional care they provide to our clients. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to embark on a pilot trial of Shiny Mind, a fantastic wellbeing app designed specifically for those working in healthcare.

Mairead Liston, Maggie Candy and a small pilot group from our team were selected to get access to this innovative app to positively impact their wellbeing and provide valuable feedback. This initiative is particularly important because, while Shiny Mind is already available within the NHS, we’re helping to trial its effectiveness for those working in the community – a crucial step in ensuring wellbeing support reaches everyone in the care sector.

What is Shiny Mind?

Shiny Mind is an evidence-based, proven mental health and wellbeing app, co-created with the NHS. Its core purpose is to “give people the power to shine, improve their wellbeing, build confidence, and transform lives.” It’s designed to be a personal, confidential, and interactive resource, offering over 150 exercises, masterclasses, and tools. It’s built to help reduce stress and anxiety, boost positivity, and improve overall mental and physical health.

Why is this initiative important in Social Care?

The social care sector, particularly community-based care, is incredibly rewarding but also demanding. Our dedicated care professionals often work in challenging circumstances, providing vital support in people’s homes. This can lead to significant emotional and mental pressure.

This trial of Shiny Mind is crucial because:

• Addressing Unique Challenges: Community care workers often face different pressures than those in traditional NHS settings. Providing a tailored wellbeing tool ensures they receive relevant and accessible support.
• Preventing Burnout: By offering proactive tools for managing stress, anxiety, and building resilience, we aim to help prevent burnout, ensuring our team remains healthy and engaged in their vital roles.
• Enhancing Care Quality: When our carers feel supported and their own wellbeing is prioritised, it directly translates to even higher quality, compassionate care for our clients. A healthier, happier caregiver can deliver more empathetic and effective support.
• Bridging the Gap: Historically, some wellbeing resources have been more readily available to NHS staff. This pilot helps bridge that gap, ensuring those in the equally critical social care sector have access to cutting-edge support, with the hope this offering is opened up to the entire social care workforce.

We are truly excited about the potential of the Shiny Mind app and are committed to supporting our team’s wellbeing every step of the way. We look forward to sharing the positive outcomes of this trial.