About Belong
Belong is a pioneer in the care sector, having launched its village concept as a model for ground-breaking dementia care long before dementia care villages or integrated retirement communities were a thing.
Why Belong?
As a not-for-profit organisation, Belong’s vision is to redefine what’s possible for older people, creating an outstanding environment that integrates services, housing and community in a continually improving and innovative care model - that is Belong villages.
In particular, we aim to ensure excellent outcomes for people living with dementia, revolutionising the traditional approach to dementia care. This is achieved through a built environment which maximises independence, orientation and wellbeing through best practice design, and an ethos based on finding solutions to empower people to live the lives they choose.
Customer voice
Our communities are shaped by our customers and we seek their input, feedback and participation through a range of methods including forums, committees, surveys and consultation on all aspects of village life.
It matters to us that our services reflect the views and aspirations of our customers and colleagues, and we continue to listen, respond and empower those living with us, as we develop going forward.
Household model
At the heart of Belong villages are our households, where 24-hour care, including nursing and dementia support, is provided in extended family sized settings where people can develop strong bonds with their peers and carers, in a familiar and homely environment that is conducive to wellbeing.
As a pioneer of this model, Belong is a founding member of the International Consortium for the Household Model, along with Hammond Care in Australia and The Green House Project in the United States. Together, we collaborate to promote the benefits of this model and make it more widely available across the globe.
Integrated retirement communities
As well as household living, Belong villages offer independent living apartments and a range of facilities such as bistro, hair salon, gym, creative studio, function rooms and library. These provide a hub where vibrant communities can flourish, underpinned by a range of services to ensure we can support people as their needs change.
Sector leading
Belong is committed to maintaining the highest standards across all our services and is a member of the NCF (National Care Forum) and ARCO (the Associated Retirement Community Operators).
ARCO Consumer Code
We are members of the Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO). As Approved Operators for our Integrated Retirement Communities, we aim to comply at all times with the ARCO Consumer Code.