A new BBC documentary, 'Natalie Cassidy: Caring Together', will highlight the work of the RBL by featuring its Galanos House Care Home in Warwickshire and Battle Back Centre in Shropshire. Putting a spotlight on those working in the recovery and social care sectors, both RBL sites were the settings for the new series which sees actress, Natalie Cassidy (Eastenders), work alongside carers and staff as she trains for an NVQ qualification in care.
Natalie spent time learning about the breadth of services provided across the RBL’s support network for the Armed Forces community, ranging from recovery programmes for service personnel and veterans at Battle Back Centre, to residential care and dementia support at its award-winning care home, Galanos House.
Welcomed by the various RBL teams, Natalie gained first-hand insight during her work experience into the charity’s commitment to supporting serving personnel, veterans, and the wider Armed Forces community at every stage of life.
Veteran and Battle Back Coach Gordon Perry introduced Natalie to the Battle Back multi-activity course, showing how sport and group activities can support the physical and mental recovery of the Armed Forces community through experiences including wheelchair basketball and cycling.
Gordon said: “I think having the spotlight on recovery services can only be a good thing, showcasing to those who have served and are serving that there is somewhere for them to get help and support. Battle Back is a very special place, and I think Natalie really embraced the spirit of what we do here and I hope people can see how life-changing it can be.”
Dedicated solely to veterans of the Armed Forces and the loved ones who supported them throughout their service, Galanos House staff warmly welcomed Natalie as part of the team upon her induction to the care home.
Staff members Amy Cotterill and Zac Knight, both 27, introduced Natalie to the specialist care provided to residents and involved her in a range of daily activities, including bread making led by resident baker Alan Silet, 87. Natalie also experienced the distinctive approach used by the Poppy Lodge team in supporting residents living with dementia, even changing into pyjamas to assist with residents’ bedtime routines.
Amy Cotterill, who mentored Natalie during her time at Poppy Lodge, said: “Natalie was so passionate about caring for others and willing to learn about my own experiences in the health and social sector. She embraced the whole experience and fully immersed herself into our community.”
She added: “I believe it’s important for people to understand the work we do at Galanos House, as care work can sometimes be misunderstood or unfairly stigmatised. I hope the documentary highlights how meaningful and rewarding a career in care can be, and the positive impact it has on the lives of those receiving support.”
Alan Silet, Galanos Resident, 87, said: “I am excited to see Galanos House in the spotlight and enjoyed taking part in the filming. Natalie was lovely and we spoke about life in the home and she joined in with my bread masterclass, which I think she thoroughly enjoyed! I hope viewers see how well we are all cared for and how unique the home is and how exceptional the staff are.”