Celebrating Leadership in Long-term Care at My Home Life Northern Ireland.
Celebration Day 2026 was held on the Belfast campus on 30th June 2026 to recognise the achievements of 72 care home leaders, from across 57 care setting, who have completed the My Home Life (MHL) Leadership Support Programme.
The MHL Programme, which is delivered by Ulster University, is currently in its 12th Year, and has received funding from the Department of Health Northern Ireland for the last six years. The impact of the programme continues to grow, having now supported an impressive 437 care home leaders across Northern Ireland. In recognition of its success, the My Home Life team recently received Ulster University’s ‘Outstanding External Collaborative Research Team Award’ at the Excellence Awards 2026. Through evidence-based frameworks, leadership coaching, and peer support, it equips participants to enhance quality of life for care home residents, relatives and staff.
Focusing on appreciative language helped manage a change in our service. Helping staff feel heard and appreciative helped bring optimism to the change. They found the process less daunting and more enjoyable.
(Care Home Leader, Cohort 29)
Throughout the day, care home leaders shared inspiring stories of change – from fostering meaningful connections and easing the transition into care, to improving reminiscence-based interventions and conversations. Many spoke about how the My Home Life frameworks have transformed their leadership approach and strengthened their professional confidence.
The Programme has changed my life. I am more self-aware am much calmer and confident. Learning from others in the group is incredibly valuable. It has transformed both my professional and personal life. (Care Home Leader, Cohort 31)
The celebration was filled with pride, gratitude, and a shared commitment to making Northern Ireland’s care homes compassionate, person-centred places to live, visit and work.
Marking 20 Years of My Home Life
This year’s Celebration Day was particularly significant as it also marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of My Home Life. Over the past two decades, My Home Life has grown into an international movement, with Partners across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Australia who all joined the anniversary celebrations with special cake-cutting ceremonies and anniversary events.
Julienne Meyer, Secretary of the My Home Life Charity said;
As we reflect on two decades of progress, there is much to celebrate. from strengthened relationships to improved care experiences and empowered communities. Looking ahead, the focus remains on listening, learning, and working together. Here’s to the next 20 years of My Home Life and to continuing to build a future where everyone in care homes can truly flourish.
