Taking care of vulnerable people is emotionally challenging, but staff at Barchester Healthcare also find it incredibly rewarding.

In our survey employees earn the company a string of top scores nationally — for motivating them to give their best every day (a 75% positive score), for feeling fully involved at work (80%) and for saying their work is an important part of their lives (also 80%).

Barchester Healthcare has 170 homes throughout Britain. Founded in 1994, the firm offers residential and nursing care for older people, and specialist healthcare services for those with physical disabilities and mental healthcare needs. It cares for more than 10,000 people. Many of the homes are set in extensive, beautifully maintained grounds that offer numerous places to sit or stroll for staff and residents alike.

Senior management visit all locations throughout the year and regular meetings, the intranet, newsletters and one-to-one communication ensures information runs back and forth between all levels. Employees say their managers regularly express their gratitude (earning the company a 75% positive score), the fourth-highest in the country, and also talk openly and honestly with them (80%), another top score.

With its own leadership academy the firm has committed itself to providing ongoing training. More than 100 programmes, sessions and workshops are currently delivered, and a map of leadership clearly shows career options and routes individuals can take. Employees feel that their manager helps them to fulfil their potential (69%), say their work is good for their personal growth and feel they can make a difference within the organisation (both 76% positive scores).

The organisation has embraced technology. As well as setting up computer links for employees to work from home, the firm also provides BlackBerries for staff.

The nature of the care home business means it is a 24-hour operation. Time off is taken in lieu of long hours and families are always welcome to join the communities within the homes.

A voluntary benefits programme provides discounts on a number of health benefits as well as gym membership.

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