Community Connect (The Otter Homecare Newsletter): Autumn 2025
- Jamie Rowland-Jones
- Oct 16
- 5 min read
Hello everyone,
As we move into autumn, we’ve been reflecting on what makes Otter Homecare unique. For us, it’s the small moments — a shared laugh, a kind word, or a familiar face that makes someone feel at ease.
In this edition, we’re sharing updates on our Otter Stars initiative, the Otter Café, and our new Otter Happy Hour. You’ll also find a seasonal health tip, meet one of our team members, and read about how care technology is helping people stay independent at home.
Thank you for being part of Otter Homecare.
Warm regards,
Jamie Rowland-Jones
Introducing Otter Stars
We’re delighted to launch Otter Stars — our new way of celebrating the care, compassion, and teamwork shown by our Care Professionals.
Rather than naming a single “Carer of the Month,” Otter Stars highlights multiple moments that stand out from acts of kindness and teamwork to positive feedback from clients and families.
Dee (pictured right) was one of the first recipients of an Otter star for her amazing work to support our clients during the first week of October.
If one of our Care Professionals has made a difference to you or your loved one, we’d love to hear about it. Your feedback helps us recognise and celebrate those who go the extra mile. Just call the office (01225 690022) or email us (hello@otterhomecare.co.uk)
The Otter Cafe Update
Our Otter Café gatherings at Staverton Village Hall have quickly become a favourite part of the Otter Homecare calendar. These relaxed monthly events bring together our clients, their families, and care professionals for a friendly afternoon of tea, conversation, and good company.
The aim is simple — to offer a welcoming space where people can connect and feel part of a community. Many of those who attended said it was a highlight of their month, and families shared how lovely it was to see their relatives enjoying time with others in such a positive atmosphere.
We’ve now held two cafés, both with great feedback, and we’re already planning the next one. It’s a small but meaningful way of tackling loneliness and building stronger connections within our community.
Otter Happy Hour
At Otter Homecare, we know that care shouldn’t only be about the practical tasks — it should also make room for the things that make life enjoyable. That’s why we introduced Otter Happy Hour, a free, company-funded hour of care each month focused on wellbeing and enjoyment.
The idea is simple: to do something meaningful, just for the pleasure of it — whether that’s a walk outside, a visit to a café, or a bit of pampering at home. Recently, our Manager Cherie (see photo on the left) used an Otter Happy Hour to give one of our clients a free haircut — a small, thoughtful gesture that left him looking and feeling great and we have also used the time to help take clients out on excursions to Longleat and The Westbury White Horse.
If there’s something you’d love to use your Happy Hour for, please speak with the office — we’d be glad to help plan it with you.
Getting to know our Otters
This issue, we’re introducing Missie, our Care Supervisor, who supports both in the office and out in the community.
What inspired you to work in care?
I have always been a caring person; I originally wanted to work looking after children with learning difficulties. But due to a change in circumstances, I fell into the role of a care assistant in a dementia nursing home. Witnessing mistreatment through the years has driven me to support and mentor carers to provide the best possible care and support to all those who need it in the community.
Favourite thing about Otter Homecare?
We have a lovely, welcoming team and wonderful care professionals. Going out to visit new and existing clients, meeting people and their families who I can reassure and offer support to is a very rewarding feeling. Being a part of a small team is amazing, it means I can really get to know our clients, their likes and dislikes and be able to offer support to the care professionals when they need.
Fun fact?
I love to visit new countries, I always want to hear about others' experiences and favourite places to visit!
Health and Wellness: Staying Well this Autumn
As the evenings draw in and temperatures drop, a few simple routines can help you stay well through the season. Autumn is the perfect time to slow down, stay cosy, and take care of yourself.
Stay Warm and Cosy
If you are feeling the cold, wear layers with soft, breathable fabrics that hold warmth.
Keep slippers or warm socks handy, especially on chilly mornings.
Enjoy nourishing foods like soups, stews, and porridge.
Stay Active and Connected
Try gentle stretches, balance exercises, or a short daily walk - just talk with your Otter if you would like support with this.
Take part in small seasonal activities — feeding the birds, arranging flowers, or even a bit of armchair gardening.
Stay in touch with family and friends; connection is vital to wellbeing.
Care Technology and Independence
Technology is playing an increasing role in helping people live safely and confidently at home. At Otter Homecare, we use these tools to support comfort, safety, and independence — never to replace the human touch.
Everyday Tech That Can Make a Difference
Voice Assistants: Devices like Alexa or Google Home can remind you about medication, appointments, or even play your favourite music.
Smart Sensors: Fall detectors and motion sensors can alert family or carers automatically if something seems wrong.
Smart Heating & Lighting: Automated systems help keep homes comfortable and energy-efficient.
Digital Care Apps: Our Care App keeps families updated in real time, offering reassurance and transparency about visits and wellbeing.
Our Approach
We see technology as a helping hand — a way to make
life a little easier and provide peace of mind. If you’d like
to learn more about what might suit you or a loved one,
just ask. We’re happy to share examples or help you get
started.
Otter in the Community
Otter Homecare joined the Trowbridge Weavers Market on Saturday 11th October 2025 for a day of community connection and conversation. It was wonderful to meet so many people —
from those curious about our services to others exploring a career in care.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by our stand and took the time to learn more about what we do from Maria (on the left).
Until Next Time!
Thank you for reading our autumn newsletter. We hope it helps you feel connected and informed about what’s happening at Otter Homecare.
We also really welcome your feedback. It helps us improve and celebrate what’s working well — and it feeds directly into our Otter Stars nominations.
You can share your thoughts by speaking with your Care Professional, calling the office, or emailing hello@otterhomecare.co.uk. And of course, we always welcome compliments too.
We look forward to sharing more updates and stories in the next edition.
