Optalis 2025 year in review

Reflecting on 2025

Looking back on 2025: This year has been all about making life better for the people we support and the teams who make it happen. We’ve grown our services, welcomed new people, and created spaces where people can enjoy the things that matter. Here’s a look at some of the moments and milestones that made this year special.

Growing Our Services

This year, we’ve focused on strengthening our foundations for the future; growing sustainably and improving how we support people. Our year in highlights looks back at the progress we’ve made and how it’s shaping the Optalis we’re building for tomorrow. 

In February, we welcomed Hollies into our portfolio, becoming the second Care Home with Nursing in our expanding range of services. Alongside this, work has continued to redecorate and renovate both Bluebell House and Hollies, supporting comfort and safety across both homes. 

We opened new location for our physical disabilities and long-term conditions day service at Matthewsgreen Community Centre, offering a modern and accessible space for people to enjoy.

Our Community Living Services have also grown, welcoming new individuals and creating homes where people truly feel they belong.  

Ability Training has continued to grow, supporting more people with disabilities to gain paid training and real work experience. Working closely with our Employment Coaches, develop skills through our Cleaning, Catering, and Gardening programmes, building confidence and pathways into employment.

In addition, we have raised awareness of Loddon Court Short Breaks through a successful open event and regular coffee mornings, giving potential customers the opportunity to learn more about the service available.

Investing in Quality and Innovation

We’ve strengthened the foundations of quality and embraced innovation to enhance the care and support we provide. Our focus has been on building a culture that champions dignity, clarity, and continuous improvement.

We’ve explored how language shapes care, introducing Gloriously Ordinary Language discussions across teams to make communication more human and accessible.

To embed dignity at the heart of everything we do, we developed a new Dignity Check Tool in collaboration with dignity champions and managers, helping teams reflect on daily practice and identify opportunities to improve.

We have enhances our digital approach by rolling out Access Care Planning across all services, supporting more consistent, person-centred care.

We’ve also expanded our Quality Team, welcoming two Care Quality Compliance Officers to strengthen auditing, guidance, and improvement planning, reinforcing our commitment to excellence.

Supporting Our People

This year, we continued to invest in our teams, recognising dedication, supporting wellbeing, and creating more opportunities for learning and growth across Optalis.

With the introduction of Long Service Awards and Optalis pin badges we recognised the dedication of our teams. We celebrated 341 colleagues who have reached five years or more of service, honouring their contribution to the care and support we provide every day.

We marked 12 years as a Mindful Employer, reaffirming our commitment to mental wellbeing in the workplace and promoting a culture where everyone feels supported, heard, and valued.

Learning and development opportunities expanded with new Level 2, 3, and 5 care qualifications and apprenticeships across various of roles. A larger training space now enables more sessions, reflecting our ongoing investment in helping colleagues grow and succeed.

Enjoying the Things That Matter 

This year, people we support have achieved personal goals, turning dreams into reality and creating unforgettable moments.

David moved from isolation on his family farm into a new home and enjoyed his first holiday to the Lake District, reconnecting with his love of animals.

Becky embraced adventure at Calvert Trust, trying cycling, archery, abseiling, and zip wiring.
Clive fulfilled a lifelong dream with a memorable trip to the Lake District and Loch Ness, his first holiday in years. 

Jason trained for six weeks to complete the Parallel 5K, proudly crossing the finish line and proving what’s possible with support and determination.

Celebrating Faith and Culture

This year, we embraced meaningful moments rooted in faith and tradition across our services—bringing people together through shared experiences.

At Hollies Care Home, people enjoyed Easter cupcake decorating, Harvest celebrations, and monthly visits from the local vicar for reflection and prayer.

At Boyn Grove Community Lives, the joy of Eid was celebrated with community and connection.

Meanwhile, the Short-Term Support and Reablement Team marked Diwali, sharing in the spirit of light and togetherness.

Supporting People to Live Well

This year, we’ve worked alongside people to take positive steps toward improving their wellbeing and living life to the fullest. 

Kelly embraced a healthier lifestyle through Slimming World and regular exercise classes.
At Brambletye, creativity led the way with a focus on nutritious choices, guided by their Healthy Eating Champion, Racheal.

Meanwhile, at WAAM Floating Support, Robert discovered a passion for cooking and nutrition, learning new skills and exploring global flavours with enthusiasm.

Creating Meaningful Experiences

We’ve spent many days helping people enjoy their interests, connect with others, and make memories that matter.

From flower arranging and community sporting events to growing delicious vegetables and enjoying theatre performances, people have embraced opportunities to do what they love.
Trips to London, cheering on favourite football teams, reconnecting with old friends at bowling tournaments, and expressing creativity through performances have all been part of the year’s highlights.

People also took part in intergenerational gardening sessions, fundraised for causes close to their hearts, including Macmillan and Red Nose Day and celebrated traditions through interactive storytelling and reminiscing.

Continuing Our Journey

This year’s achievements show the incredible dedication of our teams. Together, we’ve helped people try new things, grow in confidence, and feel more connected in their lives.
Looking ahead, we’ll keep building on this progress, focusing on steady growth, improving what we do, and making sure our support really matters to the people and communities we serve.

Thank you to everyone, our colleagues, partners, and supporters, for being part of our journey.