The Carer Digital - Issue #235

Public Satisfaction With the NHS and Social Care

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

Editor

Peter Adams

A SYSTEM AT BREAKING POINT – BUT NOT BEYOND HOPE

The latest survey findings from The King’s Fund and Nuffield Trust (lead story) make for grim, if unsurprising, reading.

Public satisfaction with the NHS and social care has plummeted to record lows — and in our sector, the numbers are particularly stark.

Only 13% of respondents in 2024 said they were ‘very’ or ‘quite’ satisfied with social care. More than half — 53% — were ‘very’ or ‘quite’ dissatisfied.

Let’s be absolutely clear: this is not a reflection on our providers or the dedicated professionals delivering care. In fact, the public seems to recognise that reality.

When asked why satisfaction is so low, respondents pointed not to poor service or uncaring staff, but to the real and persistent challenges the sector faces — poor pay, inadequate working conditions, and a lack of training opportunities.

And while the government may point to the recent increase in the national minimum wage as a step forward, we all know that gesture rings hollow without corresponding financial support for providers. The increase may look good on paper, but in reality, the government has failed to allocate the necessary funds to help care homes and services absorb the cost.

Add to that the recent hike in National Insurance contributions, and what you have is a sector that’s not just under pressure — it’s, as Professor Martin Green of Care England starkly puts it, “breaking.”

He’s right, of course. “This dissatisfaction is not a reflection of the services delivering care. It is a symptom of a system that is chronically underfunded, poorly regulated, and undermined by years of inaction.”

No one working in this field could argue with that. Day in and day out, providers and staff go above and beyond in near-impossible conditions, delivering compassionate, person-centred care while being set up to fail by a system in desperate need of reform.

Yet, amid the frustration, there are signs of hope — not least in the innovation and resilience of our sector.

One story that caught our attention this month was the first-ever UK summit on AI in Social Care, convened in Oxford by The Oxford Project on the Responsible Use of

With 150 stakeholders from across adult social care, civil society, academia, and technology, the summit explored how generative AI could responsibly support and enhance social care delivery.

Though AI isn’t yet widely adopted across the sector, the potential is undeniable.

From optimising admin processes and improving access to vital information, to freeing up frontline staff to spend more time delivering direct care, technology — if implemented ethically and effectively — could be a game-changer.

At The Carer, we’ll be following this development closely and, in the coming weeks, look forward to sharing insights from industry leaders on how AI might help lighten the load on our overstretched sector.

Because one thing is clear: we cannot continue down this path. Our social care system is crying out for meaningful investment, strategic reform, and long-term vision. We owe it to our staff, to our providers — and most importantly, to the people we care for — to fix this broken system before it’s too late.

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Generative AI.

Public Satisfaction With the NHS and Social Care at “All Time Low”

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

WHY IS SATISFACTION SO LOW?

Poor pay, working conditions, and lack of training for social care staff (57%)

Difficulty accessing support (56%)

• Insufficient help for unpaid carers (49%)

WHO IS MOST DISSATISFIED?

Older people were more dissatisfied, with 63% of over-65s expressing frustration compared to 55% of younger respondents. 64% of those who had direct experience with social care in the past year were dissatisfied, compared to 49% who had not used it.

SYSTEM “BREAKING”

Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England, reacted to the findings:

“This is yet another wake-up call, but how many more do we need before the Government finally takes action?”

“These statistics aren’t just numbers – they represent real people, families, and care workers who are being let down every single day. Older and disabled people are going without the support they desperately need, unpaid carers are at breaking point, and care providers are struggling to stay afloat. The system isn’t under strain – it’s breaking.”

“Let’s be absolutely clear: this dissatisfaction is not a reflection of the services delivering care. It is a symptom of a system that is chronically underfunded, poorly regulated, and undermined by years of inaction. Care providers and staff work tirelessly, often going above and beyond despite impossible conditions, but they are being set up to fail by a government that refuses to tackle the fundamental issues inflicting the entire sector.”

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

Professor Green issued a direct call to action ahead of the upcoming Spending Review:

“The Government cannot keep kicking this can down the road. We need a proper funding settlement, which allows fair pay for care workers, and establishes a system that puts people before bureaucracy. If they fail to act now, we will see even more providers collapse, more people stranded without care, and more families left to pick up the pieces. Enough is enough – social care needs action, not more empty promises.”

Care England is urging ministers to prioritise social care funding in the Spending Review, tackle workforce shortages, and deliver longoverdue reforms to prevent the sector from falling into complete crisis.

NHS IN CRISIS

The findings from the survey also revealed that the British public are deeply unhappy with the National Health Service with just 1 in 5 people (21%) in 2024 said they were satisfied with the way the NHS runs. Satisfaction with the NHS has plummeted by 39 percentage points since the months before the pandemic.

The Nuffield Trust and The King’s Fund say that just 12% of people were satisfied with A&E waiting times and 23% with GP waiting times. People are unhappy about waiting times even if they are satisfied with the NHS overall, regardless of age, political affiliation or nation.

NHS staffing and spending are also worrying the public. Only 11% agreed that ‘there are enough staff in the NHS these days’. While a strong majority (69%) said the government spends too little or far too little on the NHS, only 14% agreed that ‘the NHS spends the money it has efficiently’.

If forced to choose, the public would narrowly opt for increasing taxes and raising NHS spending (46%) over keeping them the same (41%). Only 8% would prefer tax reductions and lower NHS spending.

Despite low satisfaction with services, there remains strong majority support for the founding principles of the NHS: that it should ‘definitely or probably’ be free at the point of use (90%), available to everyone (77%), and funded from general taxation (80%). However, the percentage of people saying that the NHS should ‘definitely’ be available to everyone has decreased from 67% in 2023 to 56% in 2024.

Other findings from Public satisfaction with the NHS and social care in 2024 include:

There is a divide between generations, with satisfaction lower and falling in younger age groups. While the proportion of people who were satisfied rose slightly between 2023 and 2024 for those aged 65+ from 25% to 27%, among those under 65 it fell significantly from 24% to 19%.

A significantly higher proportion of people in Wales (72%) were dissatisfied with the NHS compared to 59% in England and 60% in Scotland (the difference between England and Scotland is not statistically significant).

Public views of A&E services have worsened dramatically, with satisfaction falling from 31% to just 19%, and dissatisfaction rising from 37% to 52%. These are the worst figures on record by a large margin and make A&E the service with the lowest satisfaction levels for the first time.

Satisfaction with GP services continued to fall, mirroring the trend over the last few years, with 31% of members of the British public satisfied with GP services, compared with 34% in 2023.

Satisfaction with NHS dentistry has continued to collapse. As recently as 2019 this was at 60%, but it has now fallen to a record low of 20%.

Dissatisfaction levels (55%) are the highest for any NHS service asked about.

Inpatient and outpatient hospital care remains the part of the NHS with the highest levels of satisfaction, with 32% satisfied and only 28% dissatisfied.

• Satisfaction with social care remains worryingly low. In 2024, only 13% of respondents said they were ‘very’ or ‘quite’ satisfied with social care. 53% of respondents were ‘very’ or ‘quite’ dissatisfied.

“PROTECT THE NHS”

Report author Bea Taylor, Fellow at The Nuffield Trust said: ‘Just five

years after the British public were called on to “Protect the NHS” at the start of the pandemic, these findings reveal just how dismayed they are about the state of the NHS today. We found that every group in Britain is dissatisfied with access to vital services such as A&E and GP appointments.”

‘The government says the NHS is broken, and the public agree. But support for the core principles of the NHS – free at the point of use, available to all and funded by taxation – endures despite the collapse in satisfaction. Harnessing this support and fixing the foundations of the NHS must be central to the government’s forthcoming reform programme.’

DRAMATIC DECLINE

Dan Wellings, Senior Fellow at The King’s Fund said: ‘The latest results lay bare the extent of the problems faced by the NHS and the size of the challenge for the government. While the results are sobering, they should not be surprising. For too many people the NHS has become difficult to access: how can you be satisfied with a service you can’t get into?

‘In 2010, seven out of ten people were satisfied with the NHS – it is now down to only one in five. The scale of the decline over the past few years has been dramatic. The results show that people do not want a different funding model, but they do want the NHS to start working for them again and they want it to have the staff and the money it needs to ensure that happens. The public are also clear that the NHS needs to get better at spending the money it does get more efficiently.”

‘The government’s focus on bringing down hospital waiting lists may address one area of the public’s concerns, but this year’s BSA survey shows that all areas are flashing red, particularly A&E. Voters are impatient for change, and ministers will need to demonstrate rapid improvement, but that should not come at the cost of the bigger, whole-system reforms that are needed to create a truly sustainable health service. These results will form the baseline from which the new Labour government’s reform plans to ‘fix’ the NHS will be judged.’

FINE LINE

In an accompanying foreword to the report, Nuffield Trust and King's Fund Chief Executives Thea Stein and Sarah Woolnough say that ‘The government now finds itself walking a fine line between meeting public demands for rapid improvements on waiting times and avoiding the pitfall of throwing more money – of which there is virtually none – at a system in need of deeper reform.’

The Chief Executives argue that ministers will need to meet public demand for improving A&E, GP appointments and dental care, but they should not lose sight of the much bigger prize of longer-term, sustainable reform focused around shifting care from hospital and moving the NHS from a sickness to a health service.

Care Employers Face Fresh Challenges Under Skilled Worker Reforms

Carolyn Bowie, immigration law specialist at national law firm Weightmans (www.weightmans.com) outlines what the UK’s recent Skilled Worker visa changes mean for care providers and how employers must adapt their recruitment practices to stay compliant.

As of 9 April 2025, significant changes to the UK’s Immigration Rules have come into force, directly affecting care providers across England. These new rules introduce more rigorous requirements for recruiting and sponsoring overseas care workers. For employers already managing workforce shortages, the adjustments bring new challenges that must be addressed swiftly to maintain staffing levels and stay compliant.

In recent weeks, I've spoken with many care providers who are concerned about what these changes mean in practice. While the intentions behind the reforms are to improve recruitment standards and safeguard overseas workers, the practical implications require careful planning and prompt action. Now that the rules are in place, it's essential that you understand how they impact your day-to-day operations and what you can do to stay ahead.

A "UK-FIRST" RECRUITMENT REQUIREMENT

One of the most notable changes is the expectation that care providers in England must first try to recruit from the existing UK workforce before turning to candidates from overseas. Although this doesn’t bring back the formal resident labour market test, it does mean that employers must be able to demonstrate they have taken reasonable steps to fill roles locally.

This is about more than just placing an advert. You need to be able to show that you've made genuine efforts to recruit within the UK and provide confirmation from the relevant regional or sub-regional partnership that genuine efforts have been made to recruit from the existing pool of workers and confirm that no suitable workers were available from this pool.

SALARY THRESHOLDS

RISING

The minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visa holders has increased from £23,200 to £25,000 per year. On the surface, this may not seem like a huge jump - particularly as it coincides with increases to the National Minimum Wage - but in a sector where budgets are already tight, even a small rise in staffing costs can have a significant impact. In fact, entry-level Band 3 roles are currently not eligible for sponsorship. The Agenda for Change 25/26 pay award announcement will determine if the salary be above the £25,000 salary threshold.

This means it’s more important than ever to make sure your recruitment plans and budgets reflect the new salary requirements. Any offer that falls short could lead to a failed visa application or potential noncompliance.

RESTRICTIONS ON SALARY DEDUCTIONS

Another major update is the government’s new stance on salary deductions. Employers must ensure that salary deductions related to immigration expenses or investments are taken into consideration when assessing whether a Skilled Worker meets the required salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas. These deductions will be excluded from salary calculations used to determine visa eligibility.

This change aims to protect overseas workers from unfair financial pressure, but it also puts the full financial responsibility on the employer. It’s essential that these costs are covered in full by the business and not passed on in any form - either through payroll or informal arrangements. Employment contracts should be checked and updated to ensure they are in line with these new expectations.

WHAT CARE PROVIDERS SHOULD BE DOING NOW

If you’re employing or planning to employ staff through the Skilled Worker route, now is the time to take a close look at your existing processes. Review how you advertise vacancies and assess candidates. Make sure your pay offered meet the new minimum salary threshold. Double-check that immigration costs aren’t being passed on to staff. And ensure your records are clear and thorough in case of an audit.

It’s also worth spending time with your HR and recruitment teams to make sure everyone is up to speed. These changes affect multiple parts of the business, from recruitment to payroll to compliance. Bringing all relevant staff together for a briefing or training session can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure a joined-up approach.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will likely be monitoring compliance more closely in the months ahead. If you’ve not reviewed your sponsor licence obligations recently, now would be a good time. Being wellprepared can help avoid costly issues further down the line.

LOOKING AHEAD

These changes come at a time when the care sector is navigating an exceptionally complex environment. With longstanding staffing shortages, increasing demand for services, and growing pressure on budgets, the new immigration rules add another layer of difficulty for providers trying to maintain high standards of care.

In the long term, the requirement to prioritise domestic recruitment and the shift in financial responsibility for visa-related costs could reshape how care organisations approach workforce planning. Providers may need to build more sustainable recruitment pipelines, strengthen local engagement efforts, and factor higher costs into operational planning.

Adapting to these changes will take time, and for many, the short-term impact may feel burdensome. But by embedding a forward-looking, ethical recruitment strategy now, care providers can begin to future-proof their workforce in a sector that will only become more essential in the years ahead.

New Research To Support A Thriving Health And Care Workforce Is Launched

A national research partnership will explore ways to support wellbeing and sustainability in the NHS and social care same day and urgent care workforce.

Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research and led by UWE Bristol, the partnership will investi gate the root causes of frequent staff shortages, high employee sickness rates and difficulties recruiting new staff with a view to finding solutions.

Same day and urgent care covers general practice, ambulance services, urgent treatment centres and Emergency Departments across the UK.

Researchers will explore how to plan and provide services to ensure they meet the needs of patients and carers while offering an attractive environment for staff. The research evidence will be used to change policy and practice across the urgent care system and create an effective, thriving, diverse and sustainable workforce.

During the five-year study, academics will consult widely with patients, health and social care staff and NHS managers. They will explore contemporary issues affecting workforce recruitment and retention, particularly issues that affect staff from under-represented groups in the UK. They will map services being provided nationally and bring together existing evidence.

The Same Day and Urgent Care (SURGE) Workforce Research Partnership, which starts this month, has been funded by a grant of almost £5 million from the National Institute for Health and Care Research.

Sarah Voss, Professor of Emergency Care at UWE Bristol and co-lead on the partnership, said: “Same day and urgent care is time-critical, high-pressured and unpredictable, making the workforce extremely vulnerable to poor mental and physical health. This impacts on wellbeing, sickness levels, job satisfaction and ultimately performance. Recruitment and retention are among the worst in the NHS, resulting in challenges to the delivery of timely, safe, high-quality and efficient care for patients.”

Nicola Walsh, Professor of Knowledge Mobilisation and Musculoskeletal Health at UWE Bristol and fellow partnership colead, added: “For this vitally important project, we will be working

closely with partners from higher education and the NHS to come up with impactful, rapidly transferable evidence that will support employers to create a more robust and thriving workforce.”

Examples of questions the researchers may ask as part of the study include: how can career development opportunities be improved to be more inclusive and encourage staff to stay working for the NHS; can different skill mixes of staff result in improved job satisfaction and efficient care for patients; and which organisational level changes might be effective in attracting new staff to work in same day and urgent care?

Possible solutions for the urgent care workforce may include more use of technology, changing the organisation and delivery of same day and urgent care services and providing alternative support mechanisms for particular groups of staff.

Professor Udy Archibong, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Bradford, said: “Inclusivity is central to the mission of this workforce research partnership. We will work with a diverse group of NHS and social care staff to identify critical equality challenges affecting recruitment and retention of the workforce. Furthermore, addressing these challenges creates opportunities to reduce systemic health and care inequalities, helping to improve patient outcomes.”

Chief People Officer at BNSSG ICB, Jo Hicks, said: “We’re delighted to be working with UWE and partners on this prestigious and important national research partnership.

“Recruiting, retaining and supporting a skilled, diverse and healthy workforce is critical if we are to provide high quality and sustainable same day and urgent care services that meet our population’s needs.”

The SURGE partnership is one of five designed to tackle major challenges facing NHS and social care staff as part of a £24 million investment from the National Institute for Health and Care Research. The partnerships involve 24 universities across England and Wales, five NHS trusts, four councils, and five charities and non-profit organisations, working across a wide range of integrated care system regions.

Glasgow’s Specialist Dementia Unit Unlocks Memories with Nostalgic Movie Night

Residents at HC-One Scotland’s Darnley Court Care Home, in Glasgow, were treated to a movie night when a movie themed pop-up restaurant was set up for them.

The power of film can provide significant benefits for individuals living with dementia, helping them feel calmer and more comfortable in their surroundings. Films, music, art, and other creative activities can aid in reminiscence therapy, which encourages recalling past memories and emotions.

As dementia progresses, individuals may demonstrate more challenging behaviours that can become disruptive throughout the home. Providing stimuli like films that trigger memories from earlier in life can help reduce anxiety, calm the individual, and prevent frustration or anger.

Darnley Court Specialist Dementia Care Community’s (SDCC) Cinema Room is a life station that can provide the opportunity for residents to relax and be occupied. For movie lovers, the Cinema Room adds to the home’s atmosphere, as well as supporting the orientation of residents.

The Searchers was the movie of choice for the male residents at Darnley Court, while The Calendar Girls was the favoured choice for the female residents. The residents were delighted with the special gathering and warmly praised the delicious meals.

Residents enjoyed their movies, reminiscing and engaging in conversation with each other about their favourite scenes and characters. It was truly a wonderful experience for the residents to have a day like this and to be able to enjoy a unique meal with beloved classic films.

Nostalgia can provide a powerful role in the lives of people with dementia through unlocking memories and reconnecting

with their personalities. As dementia progresses, individuals may lose their ability to communicate in traditional ways which makes it difficult for carers to understand their needs and the things around them that create distress.

For people living with dementia, the presence of nostalgic activities can bring back emotions and memories that are ingrained. This connection can enhance their wellbeing, reduce feelings of confusion or isolation.

Darnley Court colleagues were pleased to offer a special event like this for their residents, giving them a chance to take a break from their daily routines and experience something new and exciting. Delicious hotdogs, fried onions and hamburgers were provided with a selection of sauces.

There were also nachos and dips for all residents and colleagues to enjoy. To top it all off, chocolate bars and marshmallows were on offer as a sweet treat along with a selection of wine, beer, and soft drinks to enjoy.

Laura McCormack, HC-One Scotland’s Darnley Court Wellbeing Practitioner, stated:

“Darnley Court’s movie night was a heartfelt way to celebrate our residents’ shared love for classic cinema. Seeing their faces glow with nostalgia and hearing their unique perspectives on the films reminded us how powerful these moments of joy can be.”

The Specialist Dementia Care Community at Darnley Court is a unique model of dementia care that is person-centred, evidence-based and solution focused. Utilising unique techniques such as implementing assistant psychologists directly into the home to understand the needs, triggers and behaviours being displayed by those demonstrating the most complex need for dementia care.

Social Care is at One Minute to Midnight

Each year, leading scientists reset the Doomsday Clock, a symbol of how close humanity is to catastrophe. Right now, it stands at 90 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been. The threats it reflects like nuclear tensions, climate change and geopolitical instability are vast and urgent and currently set against a backdrop of the tilting of international order. But while global crises demand attention, we must not lose sight of the challenges playing out closer to home. If social care had its own clock, it would be teetering on the brink, too, yet the warnings continue to be ignored.

The government’s latest promise of a social care review, not due to report until 2028, is another example of, sadly, kicking the can down the road, yet again. Over the years, countless reports have highlighted the need for reform, but nothing ever changes. In the meantime, care providers, local authorities and families are left struggling with a system that is breaking under pressure.

The Chancellor’s budget commitments in November last year, included an additional £600 million for social care, but this barely scratches the surface of the financial reality providers face. The rise in the minimum wage is overdue and well deserved, yet without extra funding to support it, providers are forced to carry the cost or pass it onto councils that are already overstretched. The upcoming increase in National Insurance contributions will add another financial burden. For a sector that depends on a large, dedicated workforce, this is yet another strain on resources.

We have been here before. The King’s Fund Social Care 360 review has already warned of the risks of repeating past mistakes. Without a sustainable funding model, providers will continue to struggle, councils will keep rationing care and staff will remain undervalued. The outcome is inevitable. Fewer people will

Social Care TV

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Their widely-used health and social care specific courses - produced and edited in-house - are expertly designed to make learning engaging, informative and, therefore, highly effective for learners.

Accredited by CPD, training with Social Care TV is quality assured, comprehensive and relevant.

As one of the leading online training providers in the health and social care sector in the UK, they supply training for local authorities, recruitment agencies, care home groups and other health and social care organisations.

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By Tony Stein, chief executive, HCMS

receive the support they need and those who work in care will be stretched even further, leading to more departures from an already understaffed workforce.

Then there is the question of regulation. The Care Quality Commission, which should be ensuring high standards across the sector, is failing to keep pace. As an experienced care home operator, I see firsthand how important good regulation is, but the CQC’s ability to fulfil its role is weakening. The public expects regular inspections, but some care homes wait years for one unless complaints force action. A major overhaul is needed, yet there is little sign of urgency from those in charge.

Recruitment remains one of the sector’s biggest challenges. The ageing population means that demand for care will only increase, yet attracting and retaining staff is becoming harder. Without investment in pay, training and career development, the workforce crisis will deepen. Local authorities are already under huge financial strain and some councils are raising council tax by as much as 15%, yet even these measures will not bridge the funding gap.

This is not a new problem, nor is it an unexpected one. The challenges facing social care have been known for decades, just like the impact of an ageing population. Yet each time, governments delay action, applying temporary fixes instead of delivering real solutions. If things continue in this way, the sector will reach a point where recovery is no longer possible.

The Doomsday Clock serves as a warning to the world, urging action before it is too late. While global threats cannot be ignored, domestic crises must not be allowed to spiral unchecked. Social care is not a luxury or an afterthought, it is a vital part of society and if it is left to decline, millions will suffer the consequences.

For social care, the clock is at one minute to midnight. If action is not taken now, the alarms will sound, and by then, it will be too late.

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SCTV are delighted to have won several awards over the last 12 months including:

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provide a personal, friendly and knowledgeable service.

Their much-loved ‘Care Worker of the Month’ award recognises and rewards the selfless dedication shown by care workers across the UK and they proudly support the Care Workers Charity who aim to advance the financial, professional and mental wellbeing of social care workers.

SCTV believe that high quality training should be accessible to all and offer regular, free courses which include a digital certificate accessible via their website.

The company stands behind a clear mission and set of values which define their ethos and their dedication to both the Care Sector and those within it. These can be viewed at: Mission Statement and Core ValuesSocial Care TV (www.social-care.tv/about/mission-statement-and-core-values)

trolley or even a drinks trolley for that afternoon tipple? Your lovely trolley could do so much for you and your residents!

NI Hike Could Force Vital Carer Support

Centres To Close Carers Trust Warns

The Government’s hike in employer National Insurance contributions will cost Carers Trust’s network of local carer organisations a massive £3.3m and could send some of these vital services to the wall, the charity has warned, at a time when the unpaid carers they serve are facing massive benefit cuts.

The rise, which comes into effect on Sunday (6th April), will force many centres to cut back on their services, slash staff numbers and help fewer carers than before.

Combined with an increase to the living wage, the changes will cost Carers Trust’s UK-wide network of more than 130 local carer organisations £7.5m overall.

Nearly all of the organisations (93%) say the massive increases threaten their sustainability as a charity. Almost a third of them (30%) will be forced to cut back their core services, two-fifths (40%) will have to reduce staff and more than a quarter (28%) expect to support fewer carers.

Local carer organisations provide vital support, advice, breaks and grants for the UK’s six million carers and around one million young carers –some as young as five. Many carers and their families are already struggling to make ends meet, with two-thirds having to give up work or cut back on working hours because of the pressure of their caring role.

Carers Trust’s CEO, Kirsty McHugh, said: “For many of the UK’s struggling carers, their local carer organisation is a lifeline. Yet the rise in employer National Insurance Contributions threatens the very existence of these services at a time when many carers are facing cuts in financial support. Without them, many carers tell us they wouldn’t know where to turn for help.”

“The social care crisis is forcing millions of people to look after family and friends at home and many carers are at breaking point.

Our creaking social care system would collapse if they can’t carry on caring. If central and local government don’t ensure local carer organisations are properly funded the results will be disastrous.”

New Initiative Launched To Unlock Conversations And Memories Proving To Be A Success At Penarth Home

A new initiative launched by Methodist Homes (MHA designed to unlock conversations is proving to be a huge success at a Penarth home.

MHA launched the Key to me programme, which is their new approach to life story and reminiscence work.

It enables care workers to build stronger relationships between residents, their families, and colleagues by learning more about their lives.

Staff at MHA Ty Gwyn have been utilising the programme by creating themed keys on a keychain with information such as their likes, dislikes and preferences in a bid to gain more information and have more meaningful conversations.

MHA Ty Gwyn provides nursing care for 45 residents.

Mary-Anne Rawle, activity coordinator at the home initially made her own theme keys as a prop but decided to use them in her 1 to 1 sessions with residents and found the keys worked really well as ice breakers.

She added: “The personal keys are a great way to start a conversation and so far they are working really well.

“We do have some residents who are quiet and struggle to make conversations, but by showing them my keys it has helped to break down that barrier.

“I have had some great conversations with residents and found out so much more about them thanks to conversations starting from the keys.

“My keys were initially just meant to be used as props but residents and even staff have shown a great interest in wanting to know more about me.

“The family members of residents have also shown great interest, and I have had plenty of conversations with family members about the keys and how well they work.

“Programmes such as Key to Me can help us all improve the care we provide and make it more person centred.

“It’s a great initiative led by MHA, and I do hope more homes are using the services provided to them to the best of their ability.”

Embracing Sustainability In Catering: A Call To Action For Industry Leaders

By Chris Ince, Chef Director at OCS Group

Catering professionals operate in a demanding environment, serving millions of meals across workplaces, schools, and healthcare settings. However, with the increasing demands for sustainability from clients and customers alike, their responsibilities now extend beyond delivering quality and efficiency.

As pressure mounts to minimise waste, source ethically and seasonally, and reduce the overall environmental impact of food services, industry leaders must rethink traditional approaches. The challenge lies within integrating environmentally conscious practices while maintaining high standards of creativity and customer satisfaction.

REDUCING CARBON WITHOUT COMPROMISING TASTE

With climate change concerns more pressing than ever, the food industry must acknowledge its significant role in global carbon emissions. From agricultural production to transportation, every aspect of food service contributes to the carbon footprint.

With sustainability and carbon reduction now at the forefront of catering priorities, this has necessitated a fresh perspective on sourcing, recipe development, and consumer engagement. The key challenge is ensuring that sustainability measures do not diminish the taste and quality that diners expect.

Tracking the carbon footprint of recipes allows businesses to identify high-impact ingredients and make informed substitutions with more sustainable alternatives. This does not mean eliminating specific food groups, but rather, reformulating recipes to achieve meaningful environmental benefits. Collaboration with nutritionists, suppliers, and chefs is vital in striking the right balance between sustainability, flavour, and overall meal satisfaction.

MEETING CLIENT AND CONSUMER EXPECTATIONS

Sustainability is no longer a secondary consideration and is instead now a primary expectation for clients

and consumers. Many organisations actively seek catering partners who can provide forward-thinking, transparent solutions that align with their own environmental commitments.

To establish trust and credibility, caterers must ensure their sustainability initiatives are backed by solid data. Metrics on carbon reduction, waste minimisation, and supplier practices provide tangible proof of progress. However, engagement goes beyond data alone. Hosting interactive events, such as tasting sessions, offers clients a direct experience of sustainable dining while demonstrating the environmental impact of their food choices.

INNOVATION WITHOUT EXCESSIVE COST

A widespread misconception within the catering industry is that sustainability equates to higher costs. While some environmentally friendly ingredients may carry a premium, strategic planning and innovation can maintain cost-effective operations.

For instance, incorporating plant-based proteins such as pea protein can serve as a financially viable alternative to traditional meats. Some plant-based options retain their weight better during cooking, reducing waste and improving cost efficiency. Additionally, emerging production methods, such as dehydrated plant proteins, further improve affordability without compromising dish quality and appeal.

For budget-sensitive sectors such as education, these cost-effective innovations are particularly valuable. Sustainable dining can be both financially and nutritionally viable when approached with careful strategy and creativity.

Practical steps towards a sustainable future

• Catering businesses aiming to integrate sustainability into their operations can take practical steps towards a sustainable future:

• Investing in renewable energy for kitchens to reduce operational emissions.

Sourcing ingredients from local farmers and ethical suppliers to lower food miles.

Implementing waste reduction measures, including composting and portion control.

Educating consumers, whether students, employees, or healthcare staff, on the benefits of making sustainable choices.

Sustainability in catering is an ongoing commitment. It requires continuous innovation, collaboration, and dedication to responsible practices. Through taking proactive steps, catering businesses can play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the industry.

Nottingham Care Home, Red Roofs,

Recognised As One Of The Best In The Country

The team at Red Roofs Residential Care Home in Newark was delighted to be awarded with the prestigious ‘Care Home UK Top 20 Award 2025, for the second year running. The award is based on independent reviews from residents, family and friends.

Care Home UK provides up to date information on care homes across the UK. It independently checks each review before they are publishedto help families find up-to-date, trusted reviews.

Red Roofs Manager Trish Smith said: “We really are honoured to receive this award from Care Home UK. As a family we want to make a difference to our residents by offering the very best care and making every day enjoyable, comfortable and memorable. To win twice, nominated by the people who matter, is so important to us all – residents, staff and our lovely visitors. We were so happy to be scored 10 out of 10 for everything which puts us in the top position for the East Midlands

The Pobroll : A

The pobroll® is the invention of Pat O’Brien, a physiotherapist, Moving and Handling trainer, and Conflict Management tutor with over two decades of experience in care homes and nursing homes

Care home managers often face challenges in delivering intimate care while balancing efficiency and managing costs, particularly when these essential tasks provoke behaviours that can be challenging to safely manage. Traditional methods—especially for bed-bound residents—often lead to lengthy processes and frequent linen changes, driving up costs and consuming valuable staff time. The pobroll® provides a transformative solution that supports dignified care, achieves significant cost savings, and reduces the need for additional staffing.

region. This is 100% testament to our team and we are rightly very proud.” Red Roofs, located in Grange Road, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Purpose-built by the Daniel family in 1985, the home is one of 3 in the Red Homes group. All 3 care homes prioritise a family atmosphere with landscaped gardens, an extensive activities schedule and careful focus on nutritious food and consistently high-quality care. Residents regularly have visits from singers and performers, as well as day trips to garden centres, local attractions, countryside walks, boat trips and specialist themed events. Clubs include games night, gardening, knitting and baking, among many others. “We believe that it’s all the extra touches that make us stand out” commented Trish. “Being able to offer these is dependent on our underlying care running very smoothly. We’re lucky that the successful day-today standards within Red Roofs allow us to do much more.”

The pobroll® is an innovative bed-bathing wrap specifically designed to enhance comfort and dignity during personal washing for individuals who require in-bed care. Centred on the resident’s experience, it minimizes distress by providing sensory comfort. Crafted with two layers of high-quality cotton-terry toweling and a waterproof layer in between, it delivers a soothing, calming experience while keeping the bed completely dry. Sized for a standard single bed, the pobroll®’s dual-layer design offers warmth and a sense of security and privacy, allowing residents to maintain comfort and dignity during bed-based bathing routines.

BOOSTING COST SAVINGS AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

The pobroll®'s waterproof design enables caregivers to provide a complete wet wash without the risk of soaking the bed, minimising the need for frequent linen changes. This leads to fewer laundry loads, reducing labour and utility costs, as well as wear on linens. By reducing logistical tasks, caregivers have more time to focus on direct resident care, enhancing productivity overall. Additionally, reduced reliance on disposable wipes results in further cost savings and supports environmentally sustainable practices. With its durable, reusable design, the pobroll® maintains hygiene standards and allows for extended use across multiple residents. As care homes face increased pressure to adopt sustainable practices, the

pobroll® provides an effective solution that supports both economic and environmental goals.

REDUCING STAFFING COSTS AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Managing resident agitation—particularly for those with dementia—often requires specialised training in restraint techniques. The pobroll® significantly reduces the need for physical intervention by providing a warm, secure covering that alleviates resident distress. This gentle approach minimizes aggressive or defensive reactions, reducing the number of staff needed for these interactions. As a result, facilities can potentially lower staffing levels without compromising care quality, yielding substantial cost savings. Additionally, reduced dependence on physical intervention decreases training costs associated with restraint techniques. By simplifying the process of intimate care, the pobroll® reduces the need for specialised training, making onboarding smoother and lowering turnover-related training expenses.

ENHANCING SAFETY, COMPLIANCE, AND RESIDENT SATISFACTION

The pobroll® supports compliance with restraint reduction guidelines, helping facilities minimise documentation burdens and regulatory liabilities linked to physical interventions. This non-invasive solution improves safety for both residents and caregivers, fostering a culture of dignity and respect that boosts satisfaction among residents and their families.

CONCLUSION: A VALUABLE ASSET FOR QUALITY CARE AND COST MANAGEMENT

For care homes, the pobroll® represents a strategic investment, offering measurable savings by reducing reliance on disposable products, lowering laundry and training costs, and enabling efficient staffing. Most importantly, it prioritises resident dignity and comfort, setting a high standard for compassionate, personcentred care. For facilities seeking to enhance financial performance and care quality, the pobroll® is an invaluable addition to their resources.

Fof further information, see the advert on the facing page.

People With Mental Health Issues Still Not Getting The Support They Need CQC Says

People are waiting too long for mental health care and not able to access the care they need when they need it, a survey from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has revealed.

CQC’s survey of more than 14,000 people who accessed community mental health services, found that 4 in 10 (40%) people are waiting too long for care.

A third of people (33%) waited 3 months or more for their first treatment and 4 in 10 people said they did not receive any support while they waited.

42% of people said their mental health deteriorated while waiting for care. While this is a slight reduction from last year (44% in 2023), this still means nearly half of people reported becoming more unwell while waiting for care. And people who waited longer were more likely to report that their mental health got worse (71% for those who waited more than 6 months).

The annual survey highlighted persistent gaps in care including people struggling to access care, not feeling involved in their care, and not receiving support when they needed it.

Those accessing Older People’s Mental Health Services (OPMHS), for people aged 65 and older, generally reported more positive experiences. Nearly three quarters (73%) said they always felt listened to by NHS staff. However, almost half (48%) of those accessing OPMHS were not asked if they needed help in accessing care and this figure showed

no improvement from the previous year (49% in 2023).

More young people using Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) reported needing support in accessing care than last year (30% in 2024 compared with 22% in 2023). However, the number of young people using CAMHS who reported getting help for their physical needs dropped from last year (26% reported definitely getting support compared with 32% in 2023).

This year a third (33%) of people accessing CAMHS didn’t know who to contact in a crisis; which is a slight decrease from last year (38%). Worryingly, more than a third (36%) of young people who did access crisis care said they didn’t get the help they needed and in more than a third (36%) of instances no support was given to their family or carers during the crisis. Nevertheless, the majority (87%) of young people using CAMHS felt involved, to some extent, in their care planning.

Three quarters (77%) of all respondents weren’t signposted to help or advice with cost of living, even though this can be a significant driver of mental health issues. More generally, how people accessed care really affected their experiences. Whilst 1 in 10 (10%) reported that they weren’t treated with dignity and respect, people who accessed care on the phone reported a worse experience in accessing services, getting the appropriate support, and having a choice about how their care would be delivered. Workforce issues remain an issue with the vacancy rate across the mental health sector being 9.9%, with over 10,000

empty mental health nursing posts.

While the report showed concerning trends, there were small improvements in people receiving support to access treatment. Nearly half (44%) of people were asked if they needed support to access care, an increase of 3% from last year, and of those that did need support almost a third (32%) felt the support they received completely met their needs, also an increase of 3% from last year.

Interim Director of Mental Health at the Care Quality Commission, Jenny Wilkes, said: “This report lays bare the devastating reality that people are still not getting the mental health support they need, when they need it.”

“This is particularly stark when looking at young people – we know that early intervention is critical in making sure people get the support they need and too often this is not happening.”

“Too many people are waiting too long for the care they need – and experiencing a deterioration in their mental health while they wait. This, coupled with pressures such as high workforce vacancies, is causing a bottleneck of supply and demand – and people’s health and often their ability to contribute to society is suffering as a result.”

“Workforce issues and underfunding need to be addressed urgently in order to drive the improvements that people with mental health issues need and deserve.”

Hop On Down To Little Bramingham Farm’s Big Bunny Adventure

At Little Bramingham Farm, the Luton-based residential care home run by Charity, Friends of the Elderly - which is celebrating its 120th Anniversary this year – The Easter Bunny is helping the Care Team finalise their plans for the care home’s community Big Bunny Adventure on Thursday 10th April.

“On 10th April from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. we’ll be hosting our community Easter ‘Eggstravaganza’,” said Emma Lawrance, the Registered Manager at Little Bramingham Farm. “The Easter Bunny has been ‘egg-stremely’ helpful. He’s collected lots of tasty Chocolate Eggs which will be handed out once you complete the hunt and he is making sure his Easter outfit is ready so he’ll be picture perfect to have his photo taken with all the residents and visiting children as well.”

“Animal Edge will also be bringing their mobile farm to the community Easter event,” added Karen Charity, Little Bramingham Farm’s Activities Coordinator. “The animals are all bred to be pets and are part of the Animal Edge family. Engaging with the animals, petting, stroking and even offering them approved treats is a fantastic hands-on activi-

ty. This close interaction is a delightful experience for both residents and children.” At Little Bramingham Farm’s community Big Bunny Adventure, guests will also be able to take part in a range of arts and crafts, enter the ‘egg-straordinary’ Easter Egg Hunt and, of course, meet The Easter Bunny himself.

“The entry fee for our community Big Bunny Adventure is only £1 per person and Susie’s Tea Room will also be open, selling a wide variety of tasty home-made treats and a great selection of beverages,” added Emma.

“Everyone at Little Bramingham Farm is looking forward to the event and the residents have already started telling funny Easter jokes. Some of them have been hilarious. ‘Why are Easter Bunnies more tired when Easter is in April? Because they have just finished a long March’; or ‘’Why does the Easter Bunny have such a good complexion? Because he egg-foliates.’ Their repertoire seems to be endless.

“We know The Easter Bunny will make everyone’s day on 10th April, as he has the most eggs-perience,” concluded Emma.

Stress Awareness Month: Burnout at Work

As Stress Awareness Month unfolds this month, Dr. Sanjeet Ghataore, Clinical Lead & Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Spectrum.Life (www.spectrum.life), seizes the moment to confront the burnout crisis. With sharp insights, she digs into the forces driving exhaustion, its outsized toll on young professionals, and the bold steps companies can take to turn the tide - offering a fresh lens on a pervasive challenge.

In Europe, well over 50% of workers experience symptoms of burnout. This global phenomenon is reflected in the US, where around 52% of workers also experience this syndrome. The primary stage of becoming burnt out is known as emotional exhaustion, which can decrease productivity and have a massive impact on workers’ health. However, if employers take steps to prevent or mitigate it among their staff, it can yield huge benefits both for personal wellbeing and the company’s bottom line.

IS BURNOUT STRESS?

Burnout isn’t just stress on steroids, burnout is the result of chronic stress. It's beyond being busy. It's a soul-deep exhaustion, feeling empty, emotionally drained, and unable to keep up with life's demands. While stress is like a battery running low, burnout is like the battery being completely flat. It can make you feel empty, lacking in motivation, and even hopeless.

Workers have limited resources, in terms of time and energy, to meet the demands of their jobs. While this pressure can stimulate employee learning and motivation, it can also hinder personal growth and affect wellbeing. Workers suffering from emotional exhaustion have no physical or mental energy. They are irritated, frustrated and lack the strength to work well, and do only the bare minimum to save energy. It therefore affects not only their personal wellbeing, but also a company’s productivity.

Emotionally exhausted workers feel dissatisfied with their job and may think of quitting, but this has a flipside – satisfied workers who enjoy what they do, will have a positive attitude.

HOW CAN WE PREVENT BURNOUT?

Burnout is a term for stress related to the workplace, however, it can feel different to stress. Stress is a general response that our bodies

have to protect us when under physical or emotional stress. Our bodies cannot differentiate between different types of threat, for example too many assignments at work, or when we are physically threatened, like being mugged. The body responds to stressors in the same way, regardless of the type of threat- preparing us to run or fight if we need to.

Whereas with stress someone may feel too ‘full’ of emotion, pressure or anxiety, burnout can make someone feel like they are ‘empty’ of energy, motivation or hope. People experiencing burnout may describe feelings of exhaustion, negativity towards their job, and reduced efficacy.

A little stress, including in the workplace, is normal and can motivate us to complete tasks. However, if the stress goes on too long, or is too severe, this can lead to burnout.

To prevent burnout, it is helpful to think about how we manage stress:

• Try and identify areas in your work life that is contributing to feelings of stress

• Feeling overwhelmed can lead to burnout- break down your tasks by establishing your priorities or goals, and break down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps

• Take a look at your tasks- is there anything you can delegate or ask someone to help with?

• Make sure you take breaks during the day! Plan these in- these can help to boost energy levels and productivity.

• Self-care- make time to do the things that you enjoy and help to bring feelings of calm

• Plan your annual leave, take some time away from work and come back feeling refreshed.

It is worth noting that neurodivergent individuals may experiences additional factors that can cause burnout, such as masking and adapting to neurotypical expectations. While burnout relates to workplace stress, burnout for neurodivergent individuals can have an impact on other areas of life also.

WHY IS BURNOUT SO PREVALENT AMONG YOUNG PROFESSIONALS?

One thing we can consider is the stage of someone’s career. Younger professionals may be trying to establish themselves, and network with others. Through doing so, there could be an increased sense of pressure and overwhelm.

It is also worth noting the pandemic here. In many organisations and workplaces, the pandemic prompted the use of available technology to make work more flexible in terms of time and place. These new ways of working have opened up the debate on how, where and when people work, which in turn has an impact on employees’ expectations, behaviour and wellbeing. These new ways of working can be advantageous, but they can also be another source of workplace pressure that affects physical and mental health in a number of ways. Working remotely or hybrid makes it harder to make connections with others,

and we are still dealing with the effects of this.

However, as a benefit, online work has made working environments more flexible. However, it can also cause information overload, interruptions, misunderstandings and the need to be constantly connected. This is exacerbated by lack of support, resistance to change and difficulties in balancing work and family life.

What steps can be taken by companies to support their workers and prevent burnout from occurring?

On a larger scale, it is important to create an environment that feels safe, a compassionate culture promoting wellbeing in the workplace. A place where employees feel able to share how they are feeling in the workplace without fear of being judged or penalised.

Steps that employers can take include:

• Supporting employees to manage reasonable workloads, supporting reflection on priorities to help balance tasks and priorities.

• Promote work-life balance. Encourage them to log off at the end of their contracted hours, rather than continuing to work after-hours.

• Prompt employees to book in annual leave.

• Have conversations with employees about what will help them to feel more comfortable with work- would they prefer hybrid working, or to work in the office? What would work better for the employee- keeping boundaries with working hours, or working more flexibly?

• Encourage employees to seek support from a modern Employee Assistance Programme under clinical governance.

IS THERAPY THE BEST WAY OF DEALING WITH BURNOUT? WHAT ARE THE BEST STRATEGIES?

Therapy can be beneficial for people experiencing burnout. It can help individuals to make sense of what is happening, and to build a toolkit of strategies that can be used at times of need.

Strategies may include:

• Setting boundaries

• Re-evaluating priorities

• I will do as much as I can in the time I have

• I can only do my best

• I need a break, so I’ll take a break

• Will it matter in 5 years?

• Being mindful of our negative bias- make space for the positives

• Accept what can’t change whilst validating the impact on your feelings

• Focus on what you can control

• Self-compassion and self-kindness

Employers have a duty to avoid emotional and mental exhaustion. They can do this in a number of ways, such as providing a good working environment that supports workers’ emotional wellbeing, balancing workloads, and promoting positive and motivational leadership styles. They can also take more concrete steps: training and growth programs, clear communication rules, and workplace cultures that foster respect and teamwork. Implementing these measures doesn’t just lift employee wellbeing, it ultimately fuels company success.

Dewsbury Care Home Brews Up Support For St George’s Crypt With Hundreds Of Mugs

Ashworth Grange Care Home, in Dewsbury, delivered a mountain of mugs to St George’s Crypt in a heartwarming display of community that answered the charity’s urgent call for essential supplies.

The care home’s team, joined by friends and family, united in a collective effort to gather and donate hundreds of these vital items, ensuring that those facing hardship in the local area receive the support they desperately need.

The handover event was marked by an inspiring moment when Lee, a participant in The Growing Rooms – Leeds’ only residential, abstinence-based drug and alcohol recovery programme – shared his powerful story.

From a past shadowed by struggle to a present filled with hope and recovery, Lee’s journey underscored the transformative impact of St George’s Crypt’s work. His words moved everyone present, shining a spotlight on the charity’s mission to help individuals rebuild their lives, one step at a time.

Sharon Troy, Ashworth Grange Care Home Manager, said: “We are delighted to be able to support St George’s Crypt with their urgent mug appeal.

They are in desperate need of these essential items to continue supporting their clients. Thanks to the support of our Ashworth Grange friends and family, we have been able to make a fantastic donation.”

National Care Home Team of the Year Feature on TV!

The team at Katherine & Griffiths House are celebrating after being named ‘UK Care Home Team of the Year’ at the Great British Care Awards, a testament to all the inspirational hardworking staff!

After winning the local Care & Support West Awards in September last year, followed by the Great British Regional Care Awards in November, care home manager Leanne Thorne, and deputy Sue Thorne, travelled to Birmingham for the national final.

At a gala event with 1,300 guests representing the Care industry from all over the UK, eleven care homes were shortlisted for the national Care Home Team of the Year award, with Katherine & Griffiths House being named the overall category winner.

Presented with the award by celebrity Vernon Kay, Leanne and Sue listened to the glowing feedback from the judges, who said: “Katherine & Griffiths House exudes energy and passion in everything they do. Their incredible ‘One Wish’ programme is a testament to their dedication, helping residents achieve their dreams and aspirations. The charity also demonstrates outstanding collaboration with the local community, forming meaningful partnerships that enhance the lives of those they support. Their commitment to making a real difference is truly inspiring.”

Care home manager Leanne said: “Absolutely everyone who works at Katherine & Griffiths House contributes to creating a truly positive, happy environment. We pride ourselves on being inclusive and on delivering the very highest standard of care, and to be recognised on a national platform for the work we do, is a wonderful

feeling. But what makes this award particularly special, is that we were nominated by family members of our lovely residents.”

With celebrations planned at the home throughout the week, staff, residents and family members are all thrilled with the national win.

Betty, 102 years young, who has been a resident at Katherine & Griffiths House for eight years, said: “I’m so happy to call this my home. The staff are always kind, every day we have fun, and I’m constantly making new memories to share with my family and friends.”

Sabina Green, wellbeing team leader, said: “I’ve worked here for six years, and I absolutely love my job. Working with such lovely colleagues, residents and family members, it’s a cliché I know, but this really does feel like one big family, and being named Team of the Year is the icing on the cake.”

Deputy manager Sue Thorne said: “This is a real career highlight that is shared with our amazing and dedicated team. Collecting the award was incredibly emotional, and when we called the home to share the news, we could hear the cheers loud and clear! We all feel really passionate about working in the Care sector and to be told that you are part of a team described as ‘the best of the best’ is amazing.”

Dr Jacqueline Cornish OBE, who chairs SMV’s Care for Older People Committee, said: “This award is so richly deserved by a caring and skilled team of individuals who have such a positive impact on the lives of older people. The award criteria really describes the Katherine & Griffiths House team to perfection!”.

Health Leaders Call For National Redundancy Pot To Fund NHS Job Cuts

NHS leaders are urging the Chancellor to rapidly create a national staff redundancy fund to smooth the pathway to the major budget cuts they are being required to make this year by the government.

Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) have been charged with cutting their running costs by 50 per cent from October 2025, with individual plans to be submitted for government approval by the end of next month. Alongside this, NHS trusts have been told to reduce their “corporate cost growth” by half the amount from the year before the pandemic.

But without a national fund that NHS trusts and ICBs can access, NHS leaders say the redundancy programme will take much longer to deliver and will reduce the level of savings from job cuts that can be delivered this year.

This would mean that the NHS would then start the following financial year, the point at which the government’s Ten-Year Plan for Health would begin its implementation, in a state of financial deficit. Health leaders fear that doing this would put the reform agenda, including the commitment to reduce waiting times to 18 weeks by the end of Parliament and to shift more care into the community, at risk.

While recent media reports have suggested up to 30,000 roles across the NHS could be removed, including through the planned abolition of NHS England, and that the total bill could reach £1bn, the NHS Confederation has heard varying figures from leaders on the extent of their expected cuts.

Some leaders of NHS trusts have said they are each looking to cut between 200 and 500 roles, while some ICB leaders have said they are likely to remove anywhere between 300 and 400.

Several trust leaders said that they were budgeting for around £12m worth of redundancy payouts and associated costs.

When looking at the proportion of the workforce that could be removed across NHS trusts, individual estimates from leaders have varied from 3 per cent to over 11 per cent.

Health service leaders have warned that without access to a dedicated redundancy fund, as was confirmed for NHS England staff in its abolition in the Spring Statement, the process of scaling down will take much longer than the government has asked.

If they are forced to provide the necessary payouts from their own budgets, they say the process will be markedly slowed down and risks stalling the efficiency savings they can make. Recent analysis has already

revealed that the gap between trusts’ regular income and expenditure is £6bn, and that this underlying deficit could derail the government’s reform plans.

One NHS trust CEO said: “Essentially, without clear guidance on underwriting redundancy options, whether these are voluntary, mutual, or compulsory, we are dependent on natural turnover and … [other] processes, which are slow and cumbersome.

“Accelerating savings would be possible if the underwriting of impacts could be funded within the year.”

Another said: “We are not planning a redundancy programme as it will be unaffordable, our plan is to reduce headcount through natural turnover although this puts a level of risk on delivery.”

Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, called on the government to commit to urgently establishing a redundancy fund for NHS trusts and ICBs.

“Health leaders understand the troubling financial situation facing the country and the need to improve efficiency where they can, as they have already demonstrated by significantly reducing their planned deficit for the year ahead.

“However, the scale and pace of what has been asked of them to downsize is staggering and leaves them fearful of being able to find the right balance between improving performance and implementing the reforms needed to put the NHS on a sustainable footing.

“They have told us that unless the Treasury urgently creates a national redundancy fund to cover these job losses, any savings the government hopes to make risks being eroded, at best and completely wiped out, at worst. If the Ten-Year Plan for Health is to be realised, it requires the NHS to be in a position of financial stability.”

The call from NHS leaders to create a national redundancy fund comes as the government finalises its Ten-Year Plan for Health as well as the three-year funding settlement that will be announced as part of the Spending Review in June.

NHS leaders anticipate the settlement will be much less than the long term historical average increase of around 4 per cent per year with the government’s latest Spring Statement already revealing that the funding increase for 2026/27 will drop to 1.8 per cent in real terms.

Free Recreo VR Headsets Available to All Care Homes

This Spring, Recreo VR is offering care homes an exciting opportunity to enhance resident wellbeing through the power of Virtual Reality (VR). By signing up for one of our 24-month Recreo Theatres packages, you’ll receive a free VR headset and staff training.

Our platform provides person-centred, budget-friendly activities that are fun, engaging, and accessible, especially for residents who are bedbound or socially isolated. Co-created with Alzheimer’s Society and individuals with dementia, our service empowers staff to deliver personalised reminiscence and one-to-one sessions that promote memory recall and connection.

Our VR headsets have been recognised as good practice by the Care Quality

Commission (CQC), further validating their impact on care. Regular use of Recreo VR has a proven positive effect on wellbeing, with residents reporting increased activity, engagement, and social connection, often leading to a reduction in the need for PRN medication.

Whether combating loneliness, promoting relaxation, or enhancing cognitive health, VR offers a non-pharmacological solution to enrich care and elevate quality of life. Don’t miss out! Take advantage of this exclusive offer and see how VR can transform your care home experience.

For more information, visit recreovr.co.uk. Or contact us at info@recreovr.co.uk or 01482 526940.

Only 30% Of Health And Social Providers Using AI, New Survey Reveals

The health and social care sector is at risk of missing out on AI’s transformative potential, with just 30% of providers using AI tools. This is one of the lowest adoption rates among 12 industries surveyed, ranking just above not-for-profits (29%), according to new research from Access HSC, part of The Access Group. Despite slow uptake, survey respondents identified a number of benefits. Of those using AI, 83% report positive impacts, including reduced workloads, improved productivity, and cost savings.

Around 76% of respondents in the sector agreed that their organisations would benefit from utilising AI tools, further highlighting the untapped potential. What the survey found:

• Only 30% of health and social care organisations currently use AI.

• Among those using AI, the biggest benefits identified were reduced workloads (49%), improved productivity (37%), and better team communication (29%).

• Half of respondents say generative AI has yet to ease workload pressures and stress.

• Senior and mid-level managers are more likely to agree that AI has had a positive impact on the workplace

• Data security and privacy remain top concerns, while price and complexity are seen as lesser barriers.

Steve Sawyer, Managing Director at Access Health, Support and Care commented: "AI is being used in innovative ways to reduce admin, provide data-driven insights to facilitate personalised care, and ensure

health and care workers have the most up-to-date information about those in their care.

"Health and social care, by its nature, handles sensitive employee and client information, so professionals need to be able to use AI in a secure environment that supports compliance with data privacy laws.

“Approved AI tools, underpinned by clear and regularly updated policies and training, can help organisations deliver a higher standard of service while reducing their workloads."

By contrast, industries such as technology (74%) and HR (68%) report significantly higher AI adoption, suggesting that concerns around data security and privacy may be holding health and social care back.

The report highlights that younger workers in particular are beginning to recognise AI’s ability to improve productivity, while many senior-level managers see it as a tool for reducing repetitive tasks and enhancing operational accuracy.

Steve added: “Access HSC is committed to supporting organisations within the Health and Social Care Sector to adopt AI responsibly by providing secure, compliant tools.

“By breaking down barriers to adoption, AI can transform services, improve efficiency, and ease pressures on staff across the sector.”

Read the full report here: www.theaccessgroup.com/en-gb/evo/insights

Newark Care Home Invites Community To Alzheimer’s Society Talk And Session

HC-One’s Kings Court Care Home in Newark, Nottinghamshire, are set to host an information talk and session with a volunteer from the Alzheimer’s Society in attendance to offer support and reassurance to members of their local community. Kings Court, a residential and residential dementia care home, has invited members of the local community to attend their Alzheimer’s Society talk, and session which will take place at Kings Court Care Home on Friday 25th April from 11am – 12pm.

The home aims to become a dementia friendly home to showcase the support and residential and residential dementia care services Kings Court can offer to those living within the local community.

The idea to host the Alzheimer’s Society talk and session came following resident, Pat Longmate, expressing an interest to the care team at Kings Court about wanting to learn more about dementia following being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, as she is at the beginning of her dementia journey and wants to be more informed on the subject.

The session aims to inform residents and the local community as well as help colleagues working at Kings Court to improve their knowledge and understanding further to be able to continue to provide the best possible care and services to residents living at Kings Court as well as enrich the lives of those living with dementia even further.

Everyone who attends the Alzheimer’s Society talk and session will receive a Dementia Friends badge and become a part of the Alzheimer’s Society community.

The Alzheimer’s Society talk, and session hosted and ran by Shannon Wardle, a volunteer at the Alzheimer’s Society, will provide an opportunity for members of the local community to seek information, guidance and advice within a relaxed calm setting from highly skilled experts in dementia care.

Attendees can receive answers to questions from health and social care professionals as well as share experiences and learn from other people who are living in similar situations.

Catherine Skorin, Front of House Manager at HC-One’s Kings Court Care Home, said: “Our Alzheimer’s Society talk, and session is a friendly and informal event where members of the local community including those who have been diagnosed with dementia and those who are supporting those living with a dementia diagnosis are welcome to attend.

“The session ensures the home is well informed by external charities of what it is like to live with dementia and showcases that we are inclusive and proud to support those living with dementia at Kings Court.

“We want to create a safe environment where members of the local community can socialise and enjoy each other’s company, seek the advice and support they require; and learn more about dementia and the care we provide to those living with dementia at Kings Court Care Home.”

110 And Still Stopping To Smell The Flowers:

Aunt Marj, The Oldest Person In The North West

Proof that you’re never too old for adventure, the oldest person in the North West, 110-year-old Marjorie Hodnett Aylward, has been getting out and about this year.

Also affectionately known as ‘Aunt Marj’, she’s a care home resident at New Care Homes’ Formby Manor and has so far taken part in two trips out this month, thanks to the never-wavering support of the Formby Manor care team and Myley, a bespoke tour services company.

Most recently, the orchids were calling to Aunt Marj as she booked her first trip to the garden centre. No surprises here, she’s quickly booked for a second trip! Some may say there’s no stopping Aunt Marj once she’s been inspired to experience the world, and with the help of her care team and Myley, there’s nothing standing in her way.

Care Home and Myley work together to bring their residents a perfect day out

Working with Myley gives Formby Manor’s care team the helping hand they need to make sure residents are getting the most from life outside of their care residence. They make sure no door is closed to their residents, no matter their age or abilities.

The care team at Formby Manor and the team at Myley work closely to craft the perfect outings for residents, taking into account their abilities, preferences and ideas. Myley takes on the logistics, assessing locations, arranging transportation and guiding the tours. So, Aunt Marj and Home Manager Nikki can focus on

their fun day out with the flowers!

What’s next for Aunt Marj?

Aunt Marj is officially the oldest person that Myley is currently working with, and she keeps the team on its toes. She’s known very affectionately by all of those she’s spent time with, both in Formby Manor and at Myley.

With a hefty milestone ahead of her, up next for Aunt Marj is her 111th birthday. She’s working with the Formby Manor team to organise a birthday blowout with music, great food, birthday cake and a well deserved toast.

Nikki Foster, Home Manager at Formby Manor says: “I want my residents to be happy, that’s always at the forefront of my mind.

“Myley trips are incredible for our residents. Exploring new places and experiences helps residents rediscover the joy and excitement of life’s adventures and promotes mental stimulation and curiosity. It also provides a refreshing change of scenery and a break from usual routines. Our residents simply need to sign up and Myley takes care of the rest.

“This is the second time that Myley has delivered a trip for Aunt Marj. The first one to Lady Green Garden Centre took place just over a week ago and Aunt Marj enjoyed it so much she immediately requested another one to check out the house plants and

Sector Leaders Pen Open Letter To Chancellor Outlining Concerns About ENICS Increases and Extensions

The National Care Forum (NCF) and Methodist Homes (MHA) have released an open letter expressing deep concerns about the impact the increases in and extensions of employer’s National Insurance Contributions will have on the care sector.

The letter also proposes the idea of a bridging fund, a proposal generated by Methodist Homes MHA, that would enable adult social care employers to move towards the proposed fair pay agreement for care workers, and to be able to align when this framework is ready in a couple of years’ time, and further suggests this funding pot be at least equivalent to the sector’s overall losses resulting from changes to ENICs announced in the 2024 Autumn Budget.

THE LETTER READS:

3rd April 2025

Open letter for the concern of Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer

Copied to: Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury

You still have time to mitigate the impact of the National Insurance Contributions (Secondary Class 1 Contributions) legislation on millions of people who draw on care and support

We are writing to you together with our members, Methodist Homes (MHA) and on behalf of our wider membership, who are all charities or not-for-profit organisations, and who collectively deliver care and support to hundreds of thousands of people with learning disabilities, autistic people and older people.

We want to outline our concerns about the impact the increases in and extensions of employer’s National Insurance Contributions will have on

the people our members support. Nuffield Trust1 estimate that when combined with National Minimum Wage rises the additional burden on the 18,000 independent organisations providing adult social care in England will be an estimated £2.8bn. The £880m allocated in the local government finance settlement will not cover this leaving some Local Authorities stretched and offering very low uplifts, some as low as 0%.

We propose below how a bridging fund could mitigate this impact.

The Reality Facing People Accessing or Trying to Access Care and Support Services

There now exists an opportunity for you to adopt a policy that would mitigate the impact of these National Insurance increases on the people they will affect the most – those who draw on care and support every day to live fulfilling lives. This would avoid a return to what The King’s Fund2 has identified as a ‘doom loop’ caused by nearly a decade's worth of rising cost, including wages, without adequate funding leading to pressure on stretched local government budgets, resulting in less care available to those who need it as service provision shrinks.

Following the debate between the House of Lords and the House of Commons we know that an exemption for adult social care providers is unlikely at this point, however there is still a way to mitigate the impact. It is still not too late.

Our suggestion is that you create a bridging fund

One of our members, Methodist Homes (MHA)3, has proposed a ‘bridging’ fund that would enable adult social care employers to move towards the proposed fair pay agreement for care workers, and to be able to align when this framework is ready in a couple of years’ time.

We suggest this funding pot be at least equivalent to the sector’s overall losses resulting from changes to employer’s National Insurance

Contributions (ENICs) announced in the Autumn 2024 Budget. A bridging fund would make the transition towards delivering a successful fair pay agreement much smoother for the sector. It would reassure care professionals that they are recognised, valued and on a trajectory to be rewarded fairly for what they do. This would be very timely in respect of the additional DHSC announcement for care professionals to take on more delegated healthcare tasks, to help with efficiencies in the NHS. It would also help the sector remain sustainable while we await the outcomes of the Casey Commission on adult social care. This bridging fund could be administered direct to care providers or via local authorities as ‘ring-fenced’ funding, based on numbers of employees at each care provider.

Without this bridging fund, the sector risks contracting, jeopardising care and support for millions of people, and moving further away from its ability to deliver on the fair pay ambition.

On behalf of the people with learning disabilities, autistic people and older people our members support, and the millions of others supported by the wider sector, we sincerely hope you will implement this much needed emergency measure ahead of 6th April.

Kind regards,

Liz Jones, Policy Director, National Care Forum

Sam Monaghan, Chief Executive, Methodist Homes (MHA)

1 Social care providers at risk of collapse as analysis reveals cost to sector of employer national insurance hike | Nuffield Trust

2 https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/insight-and-analysis/long-reads/social-care-360

3 https://mha.org.uk/

The Carer To Produce Special V-E Day Digital Supplement – Call For Resident Stories

We are thrilled to announce that THE CARER will be producing a special digital supplement to commemorate Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day) on May 8. This historic occasion marks the unconditional surrender of Germany’s military forces to the Allies in 1945, bringing an end to the conflict in Europe during World War II.

Over the years, we have been honoured and privileged to share incredible stories from care homes and their residents from across the UK—stories of heroism, resilience, and dedication from residents who served our country in times of conflict and need. From D-Day to Remembrance Sunday, awards and honours these personal recollections have been a

testament to the courage and sacrifices of a remarkable generation.

To mark this momentous anniversary, we are calling on care homes to send in as many resident stories as possible, accompanied by photos, to help us create a bumper V-E Day supplement. Whether it’s firsthand memories of May 8, 1945, stories of service, or reflections on what V-E Day meant to them, we would love to share and celebrate these treasured accounts.

Submit your resident stories and photos to veday@thecareruk.com

Let’s come together to honour and preserve the legacy of those who witnessed this historic day.

Photo via Defense Visual Information Distribution Service

Study Finds Low LDL Cholesterol Levels May Be Linked To Reduced Risk Of Dementia

A new study published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that people with low levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in their blood have a lower risk of dementia. LDL is often known as the ‘bad cholesterol’, as too much of this clogs our blood vessels and leads to serious health problems.

This new research follows previous studies suggesting a link between cholesterol levels and dementia risk, including the recent Lancet Commission report which identified high levels of LDL cholesterol as a risk factor for dementia. Further work is now underway studying the effects that cholesterol may be having on the brain and whether this could lead to strategies to prevent dementia.

In this new research, scientists based in Korea looked at levels of LDL cholesterol and the risk of dementia in health records from over 500,000 adults. It also examined those records to identify people who were on statins, drugs commonly used to lower cholesterol levels.

Dr Julia Dudley, Head of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK explains the findings of the study: “It found that those people with lower LDL levels had a reduced risk of dementia. The use of statins seemed to offer a protective effect – even in those who already had cholesterol levels within a lower range.”

The researchers found that reducing LDL cholesterol to even lower levels did not reduce dementia risk further, suggesting that further lowering of cholesterol levels does not provide any further benefit.

“However, dementia risk is complex and influenced by many factors. Without a detailed picture of what’s going on in the brain we do not know if there is a direct link between lower cholesterol and reduced dementia risk. Clinical trials will be key to understand what effects statins might be having on disease processes in the brain”, Dr Dudley added.

The benefits of low levels of cholesterol for heart health is widely recognised, but less is known about cholesterol and dementia risk, therefore it is encouraging to see studies which add further to our understanding of this relationship.

With around 1 million people affected by dementia in the UK, and almost half of UK adults living with cholesterol levels higher than the national guidelines, it’s important to understand more about the link between dementia and cholesterol.

“In the meantime, keeping our hearts healthy remains one of the most effective ways we can protect our brain health. If you have any concerns about your cholesterol levels, you should speak to your GP,” advises Dr Dudley.

Bluebird Care Live-in Carer Wins Regional Title and National Honour for Outstanding Dementia Care

Bluebird Care Reading, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead and Bracknell has announced that one of their exceptional live-in carers, Kadijatu Koroma, has been named Regional Winner of The Dementia Carer Award at the Great British Care Awards, and went on to be awarded Highly Commended at the national finals — a prestigious recognition of excellence in care.

The Dementia Carer Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate extraordinary empathy, dedication, and skill in supporting people living with dementia. Kadijatu, known affectionately as KK, stood out among an exceptional group of care professionals from across the UK for her compassionate, person-centred approach and unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding care.

“I’m still in disbelief about winning – it’s still sinking in – but I’m so pleased, grateful and excited,” said Kadijatu. “This recognition has made me feel truly appreciated for the hard work and commitment I put into caring for my customers. It will forever fuel my passion to keep growing and giving my best every day.” Kadijatu joined Bluebird Care Reading, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead and Bracknell in April 2023,

bringing with her a background in nursing from Sierra Leone. Since relocating to the UK in 2022, she has worked across several healthcare roles, before transitioning into her current position as a live-in carer. Her role allows her to provide holistic, one-to-one care for individuals in the comfort of their own homes – something she describes as deeply rewarding.

Kerry Brooker, Registered Manager at Bluebird Care Reading, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead and Bracknell, said: “Hearing the nominations and waiting for the announcements, I think I was just as nervous and excited as KK was! She is incredibly hardworking and compassionate, and she absolutely deserves to be recognised for the care she provides.”

“Watching her collect her award was a moment I’ll never forget – and seeing her share that joy with colleagues on the night, and with her family and friends afterwards, was simply heartwarming. A massive thank you to her for everything she brings to our service – her enthusiasm, her dedication, and the joy she spreads throughout the team.”

Red Rose Care Community Residents Dig

Deep To Get Their Garden Ready For Summer

Enthusiastic, green-fingered members of Newark’s Red Rose Care Community Gardening Club have been busy planning and gardening in the Spring sunshine.

The much-loved outdoor space hosts many social events, encourages hobbies and activities, and provides the opportunity for residents to enjoy time outdoors, all year round.

Residents were out in force to clear the way for plans to create more space for the green fingered gardeners to enjoy – including additional patio and planting areas later in the year.

Big-hearted husband and wife team, Barrie, 79, and Cynthia Farmer, 84, residents at Red Rose, were among those clearing, planting and planning for this year’s new look. The couple, who are regulars in the garden, used to grow and sell hundreds of flowers each year before moving to Red Rose and now enjoy

sharing their knowledge and passion with others.

Joanne Brown, manager at Red Rose Care Community, said:

“We are very lucky to have such a beautiful outdoor space for our residents. It has been carefully designed and provides a safe, sensory and stimulating place for our residents and their visitors.

“This week, with such lovely weather, we have been clearing out the raised beds and pots to make way for the new planting season. We love that so many of our residents are involved in updating the garden for the summer.”

Red Rose, part of the Red Homes Group of care homes in Nottinghamshire, is looking to create an extended patio and new planting areas later this year. Adding extra patio space means that Red Rose can hold larger events and have more space for outdoor activities.

Lambs Bring Smiles: Phoenix Children's Charity Visits Local Care Home

paid a visit.

General Manager Zoe Postgate said: “Our residents have really enjoyed their unusual visitors today. We knew that having the lambs

here would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult to go on many outings in our minibus. We are always looking for new activities for the residents and today we have seen the enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people.” Resident; Betty, was very excited by the Phoenix Children's Charity's animals: “As a child I used to love all the animals on the nearby farm. Today was very enjoyable and it was wonderful that the animals were free to roam amongst us.”

Chater Lodge Care Home, in Ketton, Stamford, was full of animal mischief on Wednesday 2nd April when a group of baby lambs came to visit the home.

Residents at Chater Lodge were pleasantly surprised to see their new furry friends roaming around their garden as Phoenix Children's Charity

AI in Social Care Summit: Charting a Course for Responsible Use of AI in Social Care

The Oxford Project on the responsible use of Generative AI in Social Care recently convened in Oxford, with 150 participants from adult social care, civil society, people with lived experience, academia, policy, and technologists meeting to deliberate the responsible use of artificial intelligence in social care, particularly generative AI, at the AI in Social Care Summit, the first such summit of its kind in the UK.

As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life, the social care sector stands at a critical crossroads. Without clear guidance, the use of AI – while full of potential – risks reinforcing inequalities or undermining the very values care is built on. The summit brought together an extraordinary mix of voices, united by a shared commitment to ensuring that AI works for, not against, people.

Throughout the day, there was a palpable sense of community, openness, and shared purpose. People from across the sector – from care workers and people who draw on care and support, to policymakers, researchers and technologists – listened, challenged, and built together. The event created space for honest conversations, bold ideas, and a shared belief that ethical, inclusive AI is both possible and necessary.

As part of the summit, the group agreed on a shared definition of responsible AI use in social care:

“The responsible use of (generative) AI in social care means that the use of AI systems in the care or related to the care of people supports and does not undermine, harm or unfairly breach fundamental values of care, including human rights, independence, choice and control, dignity, equality and wellbeing.”

A COLLABORATIVE

CALL TO ACTION

The summit concluded with a Call to Action, urging governments, regulators, and stakeholders to commit to six key priorities for responsible AI in social care:

• Adopt guidance – Use the developed guidance, setting out key principles and stakeholder perspectives on the ethical use of generative AI in social care.

• Encourage collaboration – Ensure diverse perspectives, including people who draw on care, unpaid car-

ers, and social care workers, are included in decision-making processes.

• Develop regulation – Urge the government to collaborate with regulators on creating AI guidelines and accountability structures.

• Inclusive innovation – Call for the development of a supportive infrastructure for inclusive and human-centred design in care technology.

• Support for new business models – Advocate for government support for emerging business models in care technology.

• Align standards with ethics – Government to ensure National Standards on technology align with legal frameworks and ethical principles.

The white paper, authored by Dr Caroline Green, Director of Research at the Institute for Ethics in AI, together with Katie Thorn from the Digital Care Hub, Daniel Casson from Casson Consulting and Kate Jopling from Think Local, Act Personal has now been published. It distils the summit’s findings into practical guidance, ethical frameworks, and tools to support responsible, inclusive innovation in social care.

Dr Caroline Green said: “The AI in Social Care Summit was a pivotal moment for the future direction of AI in adult social care. The care community united to define what the responsible use of AI in adult social care means and published the first co-produced guidance for responsible AI integration into care services.”

“AI in adult social care must benefit people drawing on care and support and not compromise or harm people’s human rights, dignity and wellbeing. The voices and experiences of people drawing on care and care workers must be at the core of future AI policy and I am thrilled to continue this important work through our newly announced Alliance on AI in Social Care.”

Stephen Kinnock, Minister of State for Social Care, addressed attendees via video message, stating: “This summit is vital – bringing together expertise to ensure AI enhances, rather than replaces, human care. The government is committed to supporting the responsible adoption of AI in public services, and we want to work with you to make this a reality.”

UHUK Celebrates Outstanding Contributions to Urgent Care

Urgent Health UK (UHUK), the national federation for social enterprise urgent and integrated care providers, has recognised four exceptional individuals for their dedication, leadership, and compassion in delivering highquality care.

Presented at the UHUK Awards Best Practice Showcase, these inaugural awards celebrate the vital work being done across the sector, both by those leading transformational change and those going above and beyond in frontline care.

Two Lifetime Achievement Awards were given in recognition of long service and leadership:

Dr Fay Wilson, co-founder of Badger Health Group, was honoured for over four decades of innovation and leadership in urgent and primary care.

A bold voice for patients and professionals alike, she has influenced national policy, championed equity, and reshaped the way urgent care is delivered.

Sheila Richardson, Senior Clinical Nurse Manager at Cumbria Health, received the award for her pioneering work in rural urgent care and advanced nursing. A trailblazer in non-medical prescribing and a mentor to countless Nurse Practitioners, Sheila has dedicated her career to improving

access and outcomes in some of England’s most remote communities.

Two Urgent Care Hero Awards were also presented, celebrating individuals who consistently go above and beyond in their roles, delivering exceptional care and support without holding formal leadership positions.

Sheilagh Armstrong, Advanced Clinical Practitioner at Mastercall Healthcare, was recognised for her work with people experiencing homelessness through Stockport’s Wellspring centre. Her holistic, person-centred approach has earned trust and improved access for some of the most marginalised individuals in society.

Maggie Brett, Clinical Patient Service Facilitator at DHU 111, was celebrated for her work in improving triage pathways, supporting colleagues, and championing compassionate, high-quality telephone-based care. Her insight and dedication have had a lasting impact on both patients and staff.

UHUK Chief Executive Conor Burke said: “These awards highlight the best of social enterprise urgent care, care that is innovative, inclusive, and rooted in community. Whether leading service transformation or quietly making a difference every day, these individuals embody the values we stand for. We are proud to celebrate their achievements on behalf of our members and the patients they serve.”

Saxophonist Oladayo Ojekanmi From Liverpool Dazzles To Win Nationwide Talent Contest

Oladayo ‘Ola’ Ojekanmi from Netherley, Liverpool, has been crowned the winner at the annual Care Sector’s Got Talent contest in Birmingham. Cheered on by hundreds of people in the live audience and selected by an independent judging panel, saxophonist Oladayo blew away the judges with the energy of his performance. This was the fifth Care Sector’s Got Talent event, a key programme of Championing Social Care designed to shine a positive light on the incredible and often overlooked range of talents within the care sector.

The judges received and reviewed scores of audition entries spanning across the whole remit of the care sector – including residents, team members, contractors and care home entertainers and staff. Just eight talented contestants were selected to take part in the live final at the Rep Theatre in Birmingham on Wednesday 2 April 2025. The eight finalists also included a soul singer business administrator from Ipswich, a crooner care assistant from Essex, care home staff-turned harmony choir from Cardiff, an activity and wellbeing officer magician from Glasgow, a care home admin officer powerhouse singer from Barnet, an Indian dancer healthcare assistant from London and a Makaton singing choir made up of staff, community members and residents from Worcestershire.

On the day, the four judges selected Ola who works as carer at 365 Support, a residential care service for users dealing with mental health illness, as the winner and it was announced by the Chair of Championing

Social Care, Avinish Goyal CBE.

Ola receives a cash prize and is invited to perform at Championing Social Care’s special launch event for Care Home Open Week on June 16 at Loveday Belgravia Care Home.

An ecstatic Ola said: “I’m so grateful to have won this amazing competition simply by doing what I love. It’s been a great opportunity and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the experience of meeting all the other finalists. Really, we’re all winners.”

In addition to the main prize, the audience had the opportunity to vote for the act they believed deserved a scholarship fund prize. It was won by Kunal Barot, a Bollywood dancer and healthcare assistant at Acton Care Centre, part of Gold Care Homes, won who was praised for bringing his passion of movement to the stage.

Aneurin Brown, Chair of the Care Sector’s Got Talent committee, says: “The calibre of talent on display at this year’s Care Sector’s Got Talent event was phenomenal. The judges were blown away by the diversity of talent and the quality of performances on show. Well done to all of our finalists today, but specifically to Ola, who definitely had the X-Factor.

“We’re delighted by how well this event is attended by those that travelled to Birmingham. Care Sector’s Got Talent not only recognises and celebrates the unique and individual talents of our workforce, but it also fosters unity across the sector.”

Esther McVey MP Visits Tabley House Nursing Home

Residents and staff at Tabley House Nursing Home hosted a visit from their local MP who praised the “warmth and sense of community” at the care home.

Esther McVey, the Conservative MP for Tatton, visited staff, residents and their loved ones at the nursing home on Tabley Lane in Knutsford, Cheshire. She was given a tour of the nursing home, based in a 18th century country house, and spent time with the residents, hearing about their experiences of the positive care they receive.

Barnaby Cunningham, Cygnet Social Care Operations Director, also spent time with Esther, talking about the wider Cygnet Social Care services.

Esther said: “It was a real pleasure to visit Tabley House Nursing Home and spend time with the wonderful residents and dedicated staff.

“The warmth and sense of community within the home was immediately clear, and it was heartening to see the high standard of care being provided in such a beautiful, historic setting.

“I had some lovely conversations with residents and was deeply impressed by the compassion and professionalism of the team.

“Nursing homes like Tabley House play a vital role in supporting our older generations, and it’s so important we continue to recognise and value the incredible work being done every day.”

Manager Deb Jones said the visit was a huge success.

She added: “We were delighted to welcome a visit from Esther McVey and to have been given the opportunity to show her to wonderful staff and residents we have here at Tabley.

“Her visit meant a great deal to everybody as it is always encouraging to see local representatives take time to engage directly with care providers and truly listen to the experiences of those who live and work in the health and social care sector.

“Esther had an opportunity to experience the Tabley House Museum and was able to enjoy a short tour which includes the Tabley House Collection. She was able to spend time chatting with residents, learning about their lives and experiences, and she showed a genuine interest in their wellbeing. It was wonderful to hear the conversations and listen to our residents speak so fondly about Tabley House.

“She also took the opportunity to speak about the rewards and challenges of working in residential care which was much appreciated. We were really grateful for her time and support.”

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Opening Doors in Social Care: How Home

Instead’s Apprenticeship Scheme is Changing Lives

Home Instead’s £400,000 apprenticeship programme, in partnership with The Access Group, is already delivering impressive career advancements, with the first cohort seeing significant progress just months after its launch.

Delivered by Impact Futures, a leading and chosen apprenticeship provider in the care sector, the scheme provides 80 fully funded apprenticeships across various levels of adult social care, helping staff upskill, gain leadership experience, and advance their careers.

Supporting 16,000 clients across the UK with 11,000 Care Professionals, Home Instead is committed to offering valuable career opportunities within the care sector.

One of the first participants to benefit from the programme is Hannah Cowles, who started her apprenticeship while working as a Care Professional and has since been promoted twice, most recently to Care Manager.

Hannah, now studying for her Level 5 Leader in Adult Care qualification, credits her apprenticeship with giving her the confidence and knowledge to take on leadership responsibilities.

"I’ve had so many different experiences in care, so progressing just made sense. I got promoted in the middle of my Level 3 and then again at the end of it.

“Suddenly I've gone from having two people under me to the whole office and care team of 80 people.”

Hannah’s journey is a testament to the scheme’s ability to create clear career pathways. As she continues her Level 5 studies, she is focused on strengthening leadership skills, team management, and maintaining a

positive workplace culture.

With the social care sector facing ongoing workforce challenges, Home Instead’s Apprenticeship Academy, launched in March 2023, is playing a key role in professionalising care roles and addressing skills shortages.

Trish John, Learning and Development Partner at Home Instead National Office, emphasises the wider benefits of apprenticeships:

"The professionalisation of care roles and the strategic use of levy transfers have had a significant positive impact on our employees.

“By improving the quality of care, enhancing workforce morale, and increasing apprenticeship opportunities, this initiative has helped create a more robust and reliable care workforce."

The funding is provided through the government’s levy transfer scheme, which allows businesses to transfer up to 25% of their apprenticeship levy funds to other businesses or charities.

The Access Group has been supporting care providers through this scheme for several years, with this initiative marking its largest commitment to date.

For Hannah, and many others like her, the apprenticeship programme is not just about personal development but building stronger teams and enhancing care services.

"My ultimate goal is to create an outstanding team and an outstanding business that the CQC [Care Quality Commission] rates highly. I want families and people drawing on care to continue to speak highly of the service we provide," she says.

As Home Instead’s first apprenticeship cohort progresses, the organisation is looking ahead to further expanding career opportunities in care, reinforcing its commitment to staff development, retention, and excellence in care provision.

With continued support from The Access Group and training delivered in partnership with Impact Futures, this initiative is not just shaping careers but strengthening the future of social care.

Former 1940s and 50s School Friends

Reunite At Hampshire Care Home, Aged 90

A pair of former schoolgirls have been reunited at a Hampshire care home three quarters of a century after they last spent meaningful one-toone time together.

Old friends Grace Gray and Ruth Williams, both 90, had a ‘lovely shock’ when they found they were in next-door bedrooms at Colten Care’s 64bedroom Winchester home Abbotts Barton.

Ex-pupils of the old Winchester County High School, now Westgate School, they left there in the early 1950s.

Family and working life meant they lost contact over the years apart from fleeting chats at school reunions organised by Grace. They last saw each other in person in a passing moment more than 20 years ago.

While grandmother Ruth, a retired lab technician at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital, now lives permanently at Abbotts Barton, specialist basket furniture maker Grace came in for respite care after a recent hip replacement.

Ruth recounted the moment they saw each other again: “There was a quiz at Abbotts Barton, and there was a new lady there who I thought I recognised. I looked and looked and thought ‘Is it her?’. So, I thought I’d just go and ask. I walked up to her said, ‘My name’s Ruth, what's your name?’. She replied, ‘Grace’. I asked, ‘Not Grace Harfield?’ and she said ‘Yes’. It was an absolute shock to start with, but it was such a lovely shock. I just couldn’t believe it. She said she could recognise me when I smiled.”

Grace, who lives at Headbourne Worthy, said: “Then we discovered that out of 64 rooms, we were next door to each other.”

Grace and Ruth were among the first ‘examination girls’ to take the 11 Plus and attend Winchester County High, a grammar school for girls only.

Since reuniting, they have shared many memories of their school days, recalling it as a ‘happy school and a place of serious learning’.

They have reminisced about the school's gym, swimming pool, playing fields and choir. In an interview with Winchester Radio, Grace recalled: “In the fourth year, everyone had to be in the

choir and there used to be a music festival for schools. The girl next to me, who was a good singer, said to me, ‘Do you mind not singing, just mime it all because you put me out of tune’. We won the contest by me not singing a note!”

Another moment was passing an algebra test, which Ruth described as her best memory from school. “They were happy days,” she added. Grace lived in Cheriton when she first attended the school and caught the bus into Winchester.

Later, she moved to Alresford, where Ruth lived, so the pair travelled in together on the Watercress Line.

Grace said: “They used to send the watercress in wooden crates and baskets up to Covent Garden every day. It was brought into Winchester and then sent up on the main line. It was quite quaint. There were just individual carriages on the train and no corridors.”

Ruth said: “It would be considered dangerous nowadays, just to have single carriages, but it was a great train and it puffed along.”

Ruth and Grace grew up during a time of rationing, facing the challenges of life without modern conveniences such as electric irons and fridges. They remember their mothers “worked tirelessly from dawn till dusk” to provide for their families.

Grace, a member of The Worshipful Company of Basket Makers who still teaches classes in chair seating, described the reunion as “absolutely wonderful” and added: “I didn't know what had happened to Ruth. It’s been just lovely and I'm going to come and visit her when I go home because I'm not very far away. I was completely shocked to hear someone use my maiden name, which no one around here knows really. It was a real shock and then a complete pleasure. I think all this reminiscing has brightened up Ruth's life a bit, and it has brightened mine too.”

Abbotts Barton Home Manager Dee Lovewell said: “It was beautiful to see. It's such a lovely surprise to find somebody from your past, someone who meant a lot to you in your youth, and then suddenly there they are. It has definitely given Ruth a lift. Having her friend nearby has helped her to embrace life again. It's beautiful to see her blossom and smile and be so animated.”

Exotic Creatures Amaze Cramlington Care Home Residents

To mark National Pet Month, residents at RMBI Care Co. Home Scarbrough Court, in Cramlington, Northumberland have recently enjoyed a friendly visit from a wide range of exotic creatures, including an Argentine black and white tegu, a skinny pig, a bearded dragon, and a great horned owl.

The residents were astonished and delighted to meet the animals, who were brought in by a specialist from Emma’s Exotic Animals Encounters, an organisation that promotes animal education and animal therapy. Residents had the opportunity to learn interesting facts about the animals’ habitats, diets and welfare.

Taking part in this activity, resident Georgina was amazed when she held and fed a skinny pig. She commented: “I was most surprised by the feel of the skinny pig’s skin which was very smooth. She gave the best warm cuddles.”

Resident Joan took the chance to stroke a bearded dragon. She said: “The bearded dragon was so friendly and calm. I enjoyed stroking it even though its skin was rough.”

The benefits of spending time with animals for older people are immense.

Research has shown that having something to pet or touch can result in lower blood pressure, better heart rate and reduced stress. Pets can provide emotional stability during stressful situations, helping to reduce anxiety and depression.

Stacey Maule, Scarbrough Court’s Activities Coordinator, said: “It was really lovely to see the residents’ faces light up when these animals came in. They brought joy to our residents, boosted their mood and encouraged social interaction. Everyone had a great time.”

Care Residents Urged To Book NHS Spring Covid-19 Vaccine As Rollout Begins

Individuals that need extra protection this year include those aged 75 and over (including those by 17 June 2025), older adult care home residents, and immunosuppressed individuals aged six months and over are being urged to book as the first spring Covid-19 vaccines are being delivered by NHS staff.

Since last Tuesday (25 March), 563,154 Covid-19 spring booster jabs have been booked since the national booking system opened, with the NHS’s top doctor encouraging the most vulnerable to book their appointment.

They can book their jabs via the NHS App, nhs.uk website, calling 119 free of charge, or if invited by their GP practice.

Local NHS teams have been working to make it as easy as possible for people to get jabbed close to home, and around 7.5 million people will be invited to get their jabs. Invites will be sent via email, NHS App messages, texts, or letters – but you do not need to wait for an invite to book your appointment.

As well as booked appointments at GP practices and pharmacies, there are thousands of walk-in appointments available every day, with a full list of local locations available on the NHS walk-in finder.

Latest weekly figures show more than 1,000 Covid-19 patients are in hospital on average every day (w/e 23 March), showing that this continues to be a serious illness.

The Covid-19 vaccine provides vital protection against several different variants of the virus and helps to reduce the risk of catching and spreading it as well as helping avoid hospitalisation.

Surveillance data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on last year’s spring Covid-19 vaccination programme showed that those who received a vaccine were more than 40% less likely to be admitted to

hospital with Covid-19 for up to 2 months after vaccination, compared to those who did not receive one.

The NHS is also encouraging those aged 75 to 79 (and those who have turned 80 since 1 September 2024) and pregnant women from 28 weeks to get the RSV vaccine by booking an appointment with their GP practice or speaking to their maternity services.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England’s National Medical Director, said: “It is important we remember Covid-19 is just not just a winter illness and even in spring and summer it remains dangerous for those most at risk, such as older adults, care home residents and those who are immunosuppressed.”

“It is great to see more than half a million of those eligible have already booked in to get their jabs and I encourage others to come forward and get booked in as soon as possible – protection from the Covid-19 vaccination reduces over time so just because you may have had a jab before, it is important to get a top-up if you are in one of the most at-risk groups.”

“With vaccinations starting today across the country, you do not need to wait for your invite to book – you can check our walk-in finder, book via the NHS website, the NHS App or call 119 and get a date for your jab in your diary.”

Minister for Public Health and Prevention Ashley Dalton said: “It is crucial we continue to protect the most vulnerable from COVID-19, ensuring they have protection against serious illness.”

“Getting vaccinated is now quicker and more convenient than ever, with thousands of sites open across the country, including local pharmacies and GP practices.

“I urge everyone who is also eligible to join me and get their spring jab as soon as possible.”

History Repeats for Liverpool Siblings as They Reunite at Thornton Hall and Lodge Care Home Ahead of National Siblings

In celebration of National Siblings Day on Thursday April 10th, Thornton Hall and Lodge Care Home in Liverpool is sharing the heartwarming story of two siblings who now live under the same roof.

After many decades apart, Harry and Audrey were reunited five months ago when Audrey moved into the care home, and they immediately began reminiscing about their childhood days, joking about sharing a room in Litherland, Merseyside.

Harry has been living at Thornton Hall and Lodge in Crosby, Liverpool, for the past three years. Their younger sister Pauline explained that Audrey’s recent move to the care home has made the already close siblings even closer.

Audrey said: “We now have more opportunities to spend time together.” Harry, who joined the Royal Navy at 15, spent many months away travelling the world, and Audrey remembers missing him terribly during those times. As the eldest of four siblings and five years older than Harry, Audrey fondly recalls being sent to fetch the midwife when Harry was born.

Harry shared: “We love living together. It's lovely spending time together. Every lunch and dinner, we sit down and chat about our day, especially if we didn’t spend it with each other.”

Audrey added, “We never thought we'd end up living under the same roof again, but here we are, and we couldn’t be happier.”

Harry and Audrey love spending time together, reminiscing about their childhood and playing bingo. Pauline visits every other day and is very involved in their lives. She brings them treats and even joins in wearing fancydress costumes for themed parties and special events.

Charlotte Cuddy, Home Manager at Thornton Hall and Lodge Care Home, said: “They are a beautiful family, filled with love and respect for one another. It’s heartwarming to see how close they are. They are very lucky to have each other, and we are very lucky to be able to care for them.”

Harry and Audrey concluded: “If any siblings out there are thinking about living together in a care home, do it! Nobody knows you better than your sibling, and they will accept you for who you are. You just need to love each other, and everything will be fine.”

The Biggest Celebration of Care Returns

The highly anticipated Care Show London 2025 is set to return to Excel London on 30 April – 1 May 2025! This premier event is more than just an exhibition; it’s a vibrant community gathering dedicated to celebrating, inspiring, and advancing the care sector.

Free to attend for those who work for a social care provider (including but not exclusive to care homes, nursing homes and domiciliary care), in addition to healthcare, allied healthcare, NHS, public sector professionals, chefs, catering professionals, architects and interior designers, Care Show London 2025 will bring together over 3,500 care professionals from across the UK. The event promises to be a celebration of shared dedication, filled with opportunities to network, learn, and enjoy the company of like-minded individuals who share your passion for delivering exceptional care.

Over the course of two days, attendees will have the chance to immerse themselves in a CPD-accredited

conference programme, hosted across 6 dedicated theatres. This comprehensive line-up will offer a 360-degree view of today’s social care landscape through a variety of formats. The programme covers key themes including quality, compliance and collaboration, workforce development and wellbeing, funding, business management and sustainability, catering and nutrition, and technology and innovation

Explore the expansive show floor, showcasing over 200 key suppliers ranging from leading names to pioneering start-ups making waves in the sector. Attendees will have access to a wide array of innovative products and services, including digital solutions, care equipment, waste management services, recruitment platforms, training programs, financial services, textiles, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover fresh ideas and tools that will enhance your care services and streamline operations.

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Inverness MP Launches Report On Highlands Social Care Crisis

Liberal Democrat MP for Inverness, Skye and West-Ross-shire, Angus MacDonald, recently launched a comprehensive report on the social care crisis in the Highlands, which calls on the Scottish Government to invest in new care homes across the west coast, helping the region increase bed capacity and tackle chronic staff shortages.

The Highland MP commissioned a report into the state of the social care crisis after a huge number of his constituents wrote to him last year about the feared closure of Moss Park Care Home in Caol, Lochaber. Moss Park provides care for up to 39 people and it is one of just two care homes in the Fort William area.

Mr MacDonald has long campaigned to improve social care in the Highlands, having previously described the gaps in social care provision as the ‘biggest threat’ to the wellbeing of those living in the region.

To inform the report, Mr MacDonald and his staff received responses from 88% of Highland care providers, representing the care of roughly 1,275 people across the region as well as analysing data from NHS Highland.

THE REPORT REVEALS THAT:

• In the last decade, the number of care homes for older people in the Highlands fell by 18%, while the population aged 75 and over surged by 71.9% between 2001 and 2023.

• In remote areas along the west coast, only eight care homes remain, forcing many elderly residents to seek care far from their families and communities.

• Of the private and third-sector care homes surveyed, 92.6% rated National Insurance Contribution rises as highly significant for their care home’s operations and financial sustainability.

• A majority of care homes rated low pay and lack of affordable housing as a highly significant barrier to recruitment.

IN THE REPORT CARE HOME STAFF WARN THAT:

• “The sector is consistently being tasked with doing more for

less”

• “[the] salary does not reflect the workload or skills required”

• “Workload is demanding both emotionally and physically”

• “during Covid we all clapped for NHS but what about the care home staff […] a number of staff experienced PTSD and we all wonder how on earth we got through the long hours, sad times and we put our residents above our own health and families”

“With care beds disappearing at an alarming rate, a fair funding system – one that truly reflects the cost of complex care – is urgently needed to prevent further closures”

Mr MacDonald is now calling on the Scottish Government to provide a clear, targeted funding plan for the construction of four new care homes on the west coast – at Portree, Ullapool, Fort Augustus and Fort William. As well as increasing bed capacity by up to 240 places, these new facilities would also include on-site accommodation for staff, directly tackling the recruitment issues which have long plagued the region.

Ron Taylor, managing director of Parklands Care Homes, one of the largest independent care providers in the Highlands, has welcomed the publication of Mr MacDonald’s report. He described it as a “comprehensive analysis of the scale of the social care crisis in the Highlands and its impact on families and communities across the region. It raises important questions about funding, workforce challenges, and the availability of care home places, particularly in rural areas.”

Commenting on his report, Angus MacDonald said: “The situation in the Highlands is unsustainable.”

“As my report makes clear, the ageing population of the Highlands far outstrips the number of care homes available. In recent years, more and more care homes have closed their doors and those that remain are grappling with staff shortages and higher costs.”

“This dire situation is making it extremely difficult for people to get the care they need close to home, all while piling pressure on our already overstretched hospitals.”

“We need to see a big investment that establishes new care facilities and tackles vacancies. My proposals would deliver for the people of the Highlands, helping them get access to the best care close to home and easing the mammoth pressures facing our health service.”

“My party are also calling on the UK Government to exempt care providers from the rise to employers’ National Insurance contributions that risks sending more care homes to the wall.”

Community Integrated Care Appoints Mandy

Wearne As Chair Of The Board Of Trustees

Community Integrated Care, one of the UK’s largest and most successful social care charities, has today confirmed the appointment of Mandy Wearne as Chair of its Board of Trustees.

Mandy has been serving as Interim Chair for the charity since March 2024, following the departure of the organisation’s former Chair, Libby Raper, who led the Board for five years.

During her time as Interim Chair, Mandy has been widely praised for her dedication, insight, and leadership— with her appointment receiving unanimous support from Community Integrated Care’s Board of Trustees.

Mandy first joined Community Integrated Care in June 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from across the health and social care sector. Her background spans NHS leadership, clinical practice, public health, and senior management. She also currently serves as a Non-Executive Director at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Jim Kane, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are thrilled to appoint Mandy as Chair. Her robust guardianship over the last year, and her support and guidance in previous years has been invaluable to our charity’s success. Not only is Mandy supportive of our ambitious goals, she also provides great challenge and governance that ensures our decisions and actions are in the best interests of everyone at this charity.”

Mandy said: “It has been a real privilege to serve Interim Chair over the last year, and I’m very proud to now take on the role permanently. It’s an exciting time for our charity – the plans we’re working on, with our fantastic leadership at the helm, will help us thrive and grow despite the challenges we face in our sector.

Of course, none of this is possible without our incredible teams and the people we support, who are of course at the heart of everything we do.”

Local Care Home Worker Runs For Charity

A staff member at Hilton Park Care Home in Bottisham put the ‘fun’ into ‘fundraising’ with a sponsored run around the grounds of the home to raise money for Barchester’s Charitable Foundation.

Denis Green, Home Services Advisor at Hilton Park said ‘The Barchester Foundation is an incredible charity which benefits lots of vulnerable people and as soon as I heard about it, I was looking for ways that I could get involved. Hilton Park has amazing grounds and to run around them for charity seemed like too good an opportunity to miss’.

Geanina Tinca, General Manager at Hilton Park said: “Everyone at Hilton Park was keen to show Denis’ support with his challenge, especially the

residents, some of whom have sponsored Denis and cheered him on all the way. Barchester’s Charitable Foundation is a great cause that helps many people in need, particularly lonely older people, which is a cause very close to the hearts of all our staff and residents, and we are really proud of Denis to have been able to do his bit for the Foundation. Thank you to everyone who donated!”

Barchester’s Charitable Foundation supports older people and other adults living with a disability or mental health problems by helping them to connect or re-connect with others in their local communities. For more information please visit www.bhcfoundation.org.uk

Ex-Pub Landlord Michelle Toasts Care Home Pioneers in Touching Poem

A former pub landlord and amateur poet whose verse is inspired by real life events has penned a moving tribute to the owners of a residential home where she now works.

Michelle Williams, a care practitioner at Hillbury House in Wrexham wrote the poem to help celebrate the 40th anniversary of Pendine Park care organisation run by Mario Kreft MBE and his wife, Gill.

The Krefts first launched Pendine Park four decades ago when they converted a Victorian villa, Gwern Alyn, in Wrexham, into a residential care home.

They went on to open Hillbury House, next door to Gwern Alyn, and to further extend the Pendine family by building more homes at Summerhill, near Wrexham, and in 2015 a specialist dementia centre at Bryn Seiont Newydd, Caernarfon.

Michelle, 57, of Ruabon, has worked as a carer for nine years and says she would not want to do anything else.

She said: “Believe it or not I followed my daughter, Emily, into this line of work. She came here from school on work experience and she enjoyed it so much that on leaving school she was thrilled to land a job here.

“I always thought that I wouldn’t want to work in a care environment, having done various other jobs, including as a shop assistant, then as a pub landlady and then in an office for 10 years before I came to Hillbury. But after talking to Emily, and seeing first-hand how much she liked it, I decided to give it a try.

“I’m so glad I did as I loved it from the start. It can be highly emotional at times, but in the end it is such a fulfilling and rewarding job. I found my vocation, and now I wouldn’t want to do anything else.”

During the Covid epidemic she turned to writing poems as a way of relieving the stress of working in a front-line environment.

She said: “I find it therapeutic and a way of expressing what I feel in a positive way. I usually write first thing in a morning, when my mind is more fresh, often with a cuppa by my side.”

She said she is inspired by events going on in her life rather than fantasy or fiction. She wrote a poetic tribute for her father’s funeral and is currently penning one for her daughter’s wedding in June.

For her poem about Pendine Park, entitled “Celebrating 40 Years”, Michelle was inspired by the story of how Mario and Gill Kreft gradually built up their care organisation from a single home to an award-winning group of nine homes over the past four decades.

She said: “I wanted to focus on how they have never lost their determination to do the best they can for all the residents in their care.”

In one part of the 12-verses poem Michelle describes how Pendine Park is a real home from home:

“Welcoming more residents and staff within, Into the heart of Pendine to be loved and cared for

To share memories, laugh and so much more.”

Michelle is among nearly 30members of staff and residents who were encouraged by Pendine Park Consultant Artist in Residence, Sarah Edwards, to write a poem marking the 40th anniversary.

Sarah said: “Michelle was the first to respond to my appeal for everyone to get creative and put their thoughts about the anniversary celebrations into poetry form. I know she has written a few poems before and so I was not surprised when it was so good.”

Sarah also wrote a poem herself, which she turned into a short video, in which a number of residents and staff from across the Pendine family were filmed as they read out a line each.

She said: “After Michelle sent me her poem, slowly but surely I start-

ed to receive more poems from numerous other staff and residents. They are all very touching and perfectly capture in words the ethos of community and well-being which is at the heart of Pendine Park.”

Among the other contributions is a poem by Michael Williams, 65, a resident of Cae Bryn care home at Summerhill.

Michael, originally from Connah’s Quay, inherited his love of poetry from his late mother who would take him to poetry recitals. He has met several professional poets including former Poet Laureate Andrew Motion, and TV performance poet Pam Ayres, both of whom he met backstage when they appeared at Theatre Clwyd, Mold.

Michael said: “I gave Pam Ayres one of my poems about how it feels sometimes to be in a wheelchair and people automatically assume you have no conversational skills. I was really chuffed when she later read it out during one of her television appearances.

“I love to write. For me it is a form of communication like no other. I will write about serious subjects sometimes, but also I like to inject humour into my poems quite often.”

Sarah is hoping that they will eventually have 40 poems, one for each year of the anniversary. It is planned for them to be bound into a commemorative book to be presented to Mario and Gill at an official anniversary party in December this year.

She said: “We think it would make a lovely gift for them and be a heart-warming way of showing them how much they are appreciated and how they are still held in such high regard by residents, their families and staff, even after all these years.

“When we first embarked on this project I wasn’t sure how many poems we would receive but since that first one from Michelle it has really snow-balled and we have almost enough now to create that book.

“I want to thank everyone who has contributed so far for all the hard work they have put in, not just the homes, but also the administrative team at Bromfield House Technology Park. They have all put on their thinking caps and come up with some really good reads. A big thank you to all.”

CELEBRATING

In

Forty years ago, Gill and Mario Kreft

Were feeling bemused and a little bereft

In search of a care home for a family member

This will be a time they will always remember

When nowhere suitable could they find

There was only one question on their mind

So a care home of their own they sought

And in 1985 Gwern Alyn was bought

Pendine Park Organisation was raised from the ground

To provide high quality care, the best around!

Five years of hard work and Mario cooked

A wedding in the grounds of Gwern Alyn was booked

Of course the residents were invited too

To watch Gill and Mario say ‘I Do’

In 1990 they opened Cae Bryn

Welcoming more residents and staff within

Into the heart of Pendine to be loved and cared for

To share memories, laugh and so much more

Followed closely by Highfield in 1995

Pendine Park was coming alive!

Independence, fulfillment, dignity and choice

At Pendine the residents could have their own voice

In 1998 Bryn Bella opened its doors

Inviting residents, staff and many more chores

But this didn’t stop Gill and Mario as you can see

As Hillbury House opened in 2003

A beautiful building set in lovely grounds

Where once you would see the nuns doing their rounds

Not much later in 2007 opened Pen Y Bryn

The heart of Pendine was growing within

This care service was growing, much needed and strong

When in 2010 Bodlondeb came along

Pendine was growing spreading its wings

To the local area bringing great things

In 2015 Pendine moved further afield

In Caernarfon, Bryn Seiont was to yield

Continuing the principles of Pendine Park

This organisation was making its mark!

Now forty years later and still going strong

440 residents and 850 staff belong

To this amazing organisation started in 1985

Where dreams and aspirations all came alive

I’m proud to be a part, my story is told

In all of our hearts Pendine we hold

The only words to say that are left

Are congratulations and thanks to Gill and Mario Kreft!

MiCode: The Game-Changing Technology Keeping Vulnerable People Safe

Caring for a loved one is a journey of commitment, love and dedication, but it also comes with profound challenge and responsibility.

Whether it’s elderly relatives, individuals with dementia, people with disabilities, or those with complex medical needs, ensuring their safety – especially in emergencies – is a constant concern. Your priority is always their safety and well-being. But what happens when you can’t be there?

If a person with dementia wanders, will responders know who they are and who to contact? If someone with epilepsy, diabetes, or a severe allergy experiences a medical crisis, will 昀rst responders have the right information to act quickly and safely?

MiCode, a British-made, NHS-backed innovation, understands these concerns. It offers a simple yet powerful solution designed to bring peace of mind to carers and protect those they love.

A Carer’s Story at the Heart of MiCode

MiCode wasn’t conceived in a boardroom; it was born from a place of love and necessity. Professor James Ohene-Djan, a leading technologist from Goldsmiths, University of London, and his sister Professor Louise Brown developed MiCode after witnessing the challenges faced by their brother, Anthony, who lived with multiple sclerosis (MS).

As Anthony’s condition progressed, communicating his medical needs became increasingly dif昀cult. James and Louise saw 昀rsthand how a lack of instantly accessible medical details could put vulnerable individuals at risk. They used their expertise to create MiCode – a simple, effective, and affordable way to ensure people always have their vital medical information at hand. It’s a solution built by carers, for carers.

What is MiCode, and How Does it Help?

MiCode is a secure QR code system that provides immediate access to essential medical and emergency contact information. Unlike traditional medical ID bracelets, which can only hold a few words, MiCode acts as a digital lifeline and allows 昀rst responders, paramedics, and you to access a complete, up-to-date medical pro昀le in seconds.

Each MiCode securely stores:

• Emergency contacts: Ensuring the right people are called 昀rst – including you.

• Medical conditions: Allowing paramedics and carers to make informed decisions.

• Allergy and medication details: Preventing potentially dangerous treatment errors.

• Care instructions: Supporting continuity of care across different carers and settings.

• Instant translation: Ensuring accessibility in diverse communities and while traveling abroad.

Designed for Real Life, Backed by the NHS

MiCode is a proudly British company, using cutting-edge British technology to enhance safety and ef昀ciency in healthcare. It has been developed in close collaboration with the NHS, with a particular focus on supporting children, older adults, and individuals with complex care needs.

Unlike many healthcare solutions that require expensive subscriptions or complicated apps, MiCode has been designed to be:

• Affordable: At just £2 per month or £20 annually, MiCode is accessible to individuals, families, and care organisations.

• Easy to use: No apps, logins, or complicated passwords—just a simple scan with any smartphone.

• Practical for real-world emergencies: Whether at home, in a care facility, or traveling, medical and emergency details are always accessible.

How MiCode is Used in Everyday Care

MiCode can be seamlessly integrated into daily life, making it a 昀exible and convenient tool for those receiving care, their families, and professional caregivers.

• Wearable options: MiCode can be worn as a bracelet, pendant, or keyring, ensuring it is always available in an emergency.

• Mobile integration: MiCode can be displayed on a mobile phone screen for instant access.

• Cards and stickers: Ideal for placement in wallets, on mobility aids, or in homes, ensuring carers and emergency responders can retrieve information immediately.

• Clothing and pre-printed items: MiCodes can be integrated into uniforms, lanyards, and ID badges, making them particularly bene昀cial for care home residents and individuals prone to wandering or confusion.

Unlike many digital health systems that require Wi-Fi, apps, or login credentials, MiCode is designed to work instantly with any smartphone camera. This makes it particularly useful for those who may not be comfortable with technology or who need a reliable, always-accessible solution.

A Vital Tool for Carers and Care Companies

For family carers, MiCode provides invaluable peace of mind. If something happens and you are not present, you can trust that 昀rst responders will have all the necessary information to provide the best possible care and contact you immediately.

For professional carers and care companies, MiCode ensures:

• Faster emergency response – Information is available instantly, without the need to search through 昀les or records.

• Improved communication between care teams – Every carer and responder has access to the same critical information, ensuring consistency in care.

• Reduced risk of medication errors – MiCode provides real-time medication details, preventing dangerous mistakes.

• Lower operational costs – At just £20 per year per person, MiCode is an affordable alternative to complex digital health record systems.

MiCode is already being adopted by care homes, assisted living providers, and NHS services, contributing to a safer and more ef昀cient care environment.

MiCode Can Save Lives

Emergencies happen when least expected. Being prepared can mean the difference between life and death.

For families, MiCode offers reassurance that their loved ones are protected, even when they are not around.

For carers, it is a simple, affordable, and lifesaving tool that ensures 昀rst responders and healthcare providers have immediate access to accurate medical information.

For care companies, it is a scalale, costeffective solution that enhances patient safety, reduces risk, and improves communication between care teams.

And for those who rely on care, MiCode is a lifeline—ensuring that in any emergency, help arrives quickly, accurately, and ef昀ciently.

MiCode isn’t just technology; it’s a way to empower you, the carer, and protect the ones you love.

Learn more and 昀nd out how MiCode can bring peace of mind to your caring journey at micode.uk.

View an Explainer video for Carers at https://tinyurl.com/cr6mu8cd

GP Calls For An End To Free Prescriptions To Help Improve The Health Service

A GP has said survey results showing dissatisfaction with the NHS are “a pleasant surprise” and he hopes it will bring about reform.

Speaking on GB News, Dr Laurence Gerlis said: “[The survey results] are a pleasant surprise, because it makes a change from banging saucepans on a Thursday evening.

“I think the public has caught up with reality that we’ve known for a long time and I think this may herald a change.

“But I don’t think we’re going to see dramatic change, because in this country, you can’t do anything radical, unfortunately.

“Let me say at this stage, I think the idea of a health service, free at the point of use, is admirable and something I support. And the vast majority of the people working in the NHS are good, hard-working people. There’s no malice in them.

“But the system is huge. The NHS is a country within a country, and you can’t really change it. And I don’t have any confidence that any form of part privatisation could ever be accepted in this country.

“We’re just going to watch the managed decline of the health service over the next 20 years and partly that’s a public fault, because of unreasonable expectation and demand.

“I’m not a political person but the sheer numbers of people using the health service is up.

“20 years ago the average person saw their GP three times a year, now it’s ten times a year.

“I just think people rush to the doctor every five minutes.

“One of my jobs, I get to look at the health service records of relatively young people in their 20s to screen them for a programme and I’m horrified by the number of consultations these people have.

“We seem to run to the doctor all the time and I do really think that needs to be addressed, that our expectations are so high.

“The French system would be a good one, where you pay 30% of the total costs and the government pays 70% and you can use insurance to get the rest back, but there’s a barrier to entry, and that would make a difference.

“Let me give you a simple solution, so simple that it won’t be tried. If we got rid of all prescription charges at £10 per item but replaced it with a simple one or two pounds by item, with no exemptions whatsoever, you would see a dramatic decrease in demand.

“At the moment, 90% of prescriptions are dispensed free of charge, and doctors are happy to prescribe paracetamol to patients because they feel sorry for them. That takes up the doctor’s time and wastes health service money and medicine cabinets are full of unused drugs.”

Veterans’ Care Charities Agree Merger

Royal Star & Garter and Care for Veterans have agreed a merger. The two charities have shared values and objectives, with long histories of providing high quality care to the Armed Forces community and an ambition to improve the quality and range of their services.

Confirmation of the merger comes after the two organisations, both founded as a result of WWI and over 100 years old, agreed to explore the proposal in 2024.

Royal Star & Garter was established in 1916 and currently runs three Homes, in Solihull, Surbiton and High Wycombe, which provide loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia. It also has services reaching out into the community and nationwide.

Care for Veterans (formerly the Queen Alexandra Hospital Home) was established in 1919 and operates from a single home in Worthing, West Sussex. It provides long-term nursing, rehabilitation, respite and award-winning end-of-life care to exArmed Forces personnel who live with disabilities, including acquired brain injury and degenerative neurological conditions.

The merger officially completed on 31 March 2025 and expands the Royal Star & Garter group to four care homes, providing a more effective, efficient and wider-reaching offer to the veteran community of all ages.

Andy Cole, Chief Executive, said, “Our strategy at Royal Star & Garter is to ensure consistently exceptional care is provided for those in the Armed Forces community living with disability and dementia. The merger underpins this ambition as our two charities unite, developing and learning from one another to benefit the veteran community, now and into the future. We are privileged to welcome Care for Veterans, its home, residents and staff, into the Royal Star & Garter family.”

David Williams, Care for Veterans trustee, commented, “This merger brings together two charities sharing common goals and values, with expertise in caring for Armed Forces veterans and their families living with disability. Combining our skills and strengthening our financial and operational resilience will ensure that high quality care continues to be provided at our Worthing home. We look forward to beginning this new chapter with Royal Star & Garter.”

Wacky Hair Day Raises Smiles At Butterfly Lodge Ahead Of Easter Fair

Staff at Butterfly Lodge care home in Plymouth marked the lead-up to Easter with a Wacky Hair Day, donning quirky styles to raise a few smiles and collect raffle prizes.

Team members turned heads with their creative and chaotic hairstyles, raising smiles among residents while gathering chocolate and wine for the Easter raffle.

Deputy manager Sarah McCaffrey said: “We wanted to do something fun and light-hearted to get everyone in the mood for next week’s Easter Fair, and Wacky Hair Day was the perfect excuse.

“The team really went all out - we had everything from coloured extensions and quirky clips to a heart design with leopard spots.

"The winning look came from Butterfly Lodge’s Kirsten Bradbury, whose multibraid creation took the top spot in the competition and was rewarded with a large cream Easter egg for her efforts."

The Easter Fair will take place at Butterfly Lodge on Saturday 12th April, from 3pm to 5pm and will include a raffle, refreshments, and stalls.

“All the proceeds from the fair will go towards activities and treats for our residents,” added Sarah.

“We’d love to see lots of friendly faces from the local area - it’s a great way to bring everyone together and celebrate the season.”

Czajka Care Group Celebrates Decades Of Support From Allyson

A care worker from West Yorkshire is celebrating 30 years of working for the same family-run care group. Allyson Butler joined Saltaire based Czajka Care Group in the early 90s after the nursing home she was working at became part of the group.

Allyson said: “After leaving school I attended a year-long youth training scheme at Shipley College, called caring for people. As part of my placement, I worked alongside the physiotherapy team at Bradford Royal Infirmary for six months, working on the orthopaedic and medical wards assisting patients following surgery to mobilise them so they could return home. I found this really rewarding and after the course finished, I knew I wanted to work in the care sector.

“I therefore applied for a position as a care assistant at Fairmount Nursing Home in Nab Wood near Saltaire and worked there for five years during which time, I was promoted to senior care assistant. The home then became part of Czajka Care Group, and I successfully applied to become its registered manager, holding that role for 15 years, helping to grow it from 14 to 40 bedrooms.

“In 2009 I joined Czajka Care Group’s community care division as a senior manager across Bradford and Leeds for three years. After the division was sold, I moved internally again to Czajka Care Group’s home for disabled adults – Staveley Birkleas. Then 18 months ago, I moved to Brookfield Care Home as a support man-

ager, which is right next door to where Fairmount Nursing Home was before it was converted into retirement homes, so I have come full circle!

“I absolutely love my role, which involves supporting the whole team of 55 at Brookfield Care Home and overseeing the delivery of care to our residents. I have always been very hands on in all my roles over the years and am passionate about providing a high standard of personalised care.

“I love the fact that that Czajka Care Group is a family owned and run group – it really does make all the difference and makes everything so much more personal. I can’t believe it’s been more than 30 years since I started working in care – it’s gone so quickly! Lots has changed in the industry over the years, but one thing that stays the same is it’s a people business – by putting residents first and honouring their wishes and meeting their needs you can make a really big difference to their lives.”

Managing director of Czajka Care Group, Konrad Czajka, added: “Allyson is like a family member and her dedication and loyalty to our company over so many years is outstanding. She has been part of our valued team for 30 years, and we are so grateful to her for all that she does. It’s rare these days for people to stay at the same care company for long, but we are very lucky that people like Allyson, and many others, remain with us giving that continuity or care and consistency that is so important.”

The Joint Impact of Caregiving: New Research Reveals Over Half of Caregivers Live in Pain

New survey insights reveal the far-reaching impact caregiving can have on physical and mental well-being, with over half (54%) of caregivers reporting weekly back, joint or muscle pain, and 1 in 5 (19%) experiencing daily stress or anxiety.[i] Dr Dawn Harper shares her tips to help cope.

There are approximately 4.7 million unpaid carers in the UK,[ii] defined as those who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, disabled, older, has mental health issues or struggles with addiction. However, this figure excludes the many who regularly care for children, neighbours or friends and family needing support beyond the traditional definitions. Carers UK estimates that the number of unpaid carers could be as high as 10.6 million, highlighting a significant lack of personal and societal recognition of what it truly means to provide care.[iii]

A new survey, commissioned by GOPO® Joint Health – a leading supplement proven to reduce pain and stiffness and improve mobility – polled 1,001 self-defined caregivers. The findings reveal the true impact of caregiving on mental, emotional and physical health.

Over one-third (37%) have experienced significant strain, discomfort or injury to their joints as a result of assisting or lifting the person they care for, and almost half (47%) frequently endure persistent aches, stiffness or pain that lingers long after caregiving tasks.i As a result, one-third (32%) rely heavily on pain medication, putting their own long-term health at risk.

The mental toll of caregiving is profound, with almost half (46%) of caregivers feeling emotionally drained by the relentless stress it brings. One in seven (13%) rely on support services for their well-being, while nearly half (44%) experience loneliness or isolation at least once a week, often facing the demands of caregiving alone.

Despite these challenges, almost half (49%) of respondents cannot remember the last time they practiced self-care, admitting that their own needs always come last.i While caregivers devote themselves to others, acknowledging the importance of self-care, and setting aside time for their own well-being is vital.

Dr Dawn Harper, formerly a caregiver to her mother, NHS doctor for over 30 years and author of ‘Live Well to 101’, comments: “Caregiving is a labour of love, but the selfless nature of the role puts many caregivers at serious risk of poor health. As a GP I see first-hand the impact that caring can have on both physical and mental ill health. To continue supporting others, it’s vital to care for yourself first. Just like the safety advice on an aeroplane – put on your own oxygen mask before helping others. Prioritising your own wellbeing ensures you have the strength, resilience and capacity to provide the care your loved ones need in the long-term.”

Dr Dawn Harper provides her top tips to support caregivers’ health and well-being: Seek support from peers: “It can be easy to lose your identity when providing care, so it’s important to connect with peers who are in a similar situation. If you are unable to leave the house often, online forums or virtual coffee sessions can provide an outlet to enable you to open up to someone who understands exactly

what you’re going through. Their acceptance and understanding can be a great way to support your emotional health and leave you feeling less alone.”

Schedule self-care: “Caregiving often leaves little time for personal well-being, but self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Schedule self-care just like any essential appointment and if you’re struggling to find the time, start with small manageable breaks of just 5-10 minutes and commit to doing one thing that makes you feel recharged. This could be as simple as having a cup of tea in silence or reading a few chapters of your favourite book.”

Build your mental resilience: “Mental resilience helps caregivers manage stress, maintain emotional balance and continue providing care without burning out. Incorporate techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, yoga or meditation, all of which can be practiced in as little as 15 minutes. If you are struggling with your mental health, make sure to reach out to mental health helplines or listening services, or discuss your feelings with your GP or pharmacist.”

Prioritise your physical health: “Caregiving is a physically demanding role, and these survey findings reveal the true toll caregiving can take on your physical health. Protect your joints and posture by using proper lifting techniques when assisting with mobility, and address any aches and pains early to help prevent chronic conditions from appearing later down the line. A joint health supplement such as the galactolipid, GOPO, a compound derived from rose-hip, may be of great benefit, with research indicating that it can effectively relieve joint pain.[iv] The natural anti-inflammatory properties of GOPO make it a viable replacement to pain killers,iv without the risk of harmful side effects, and a sustainable way to manage pain long-term.”

Extensive studies involving over 400 patients with chronic pain conditions, such as osteoarthritis, have shown that GOPO® produces significant and consistent pain relief and improved joint function. In one study, 8 out of 10 patients reported a significant reduction in pain after just 3 weeks of GOPO®.[v]

GOPO® Joint Health is available from Boots, Amazon, and independent chemists and retailers nationwide. Visit www.gopo.co.uk for further information.

[i] GOPO® Joint Health survey on 1,001 caregivers in the UK. January 2025.

[ii] The Kings Fund. 2024. What are unpaid carers, who are they and how often do they provide care? Available at: https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/insight-and-analysis/data-and-charts/unpaid-carersnutshell#:~:text=According%20to%20the%202021%20Census,females%20from%20the%202011%20Census. (Accessed: January 2024). [iii] Carers UK. 2023. Annual Report 2022-2023. Available at: https://www.carersuk.org/media/ynfpnjwk/carers-uk-annual-report-22_23 (Accessed: January 2025).

[iv] Winther, K et al. “A powder made from seeds and shells of a rose-hip subspecies (Rosa canina) reduces symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Scandinavian journal of rheumatology vol. 34,4 (2005)

[v] Winther, K et al. “A powder made from seeds and shells of a rose-hip subspecies (Rosa canina) reduces symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Scandinavian journal of rheumatology vol. 34,4 (2005)

[vi] Rein E, Kharazmi A, Winther K. A herbal remedy, Hyben Vital (stand. Powder of a subspecies of Rosa canina fruits), reduces pain and improves general wellbeing in patients with OA – a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial. Phytomedicine 2004.

[vii] Christensen R et al. Does the hip powder of Rose canina (rosehip) reduce pain in osteoarthritis patients? – a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials, Osteoarthritis Cartilage (2008)

[viii] Schwager J, Richard N, Wolfram S. Anti-inflammatory and chondro-protective effects of rosehip powder and its constituent galactolipids GOPO Poster presentation at the World Congress of Osteoarthritis (OARSI) 2008

Care Home Resident Dives Right Back In!

After a ten-year absence, a care home resident has plunged back into one of his favourite hobbies – Scuba Diving – thanks to the support of a Wiganbased home.

Sean, a former diving instructor who once assisted police search teams, has been a resident at Worthington Lake since 2023.

Thanks to the home’s support, he recently took the plunge at Wigan Life Centre, where he was welcomed by Wigan Scuba Divers, a non-profit diving club dedicated to making the sport accessible to all.

Worthington Lake specialises in dementia care and is part of the Millennium Care Group, a family-run, BCorp-accredited provider with four homes in the North West.

The session began with a short briefing where Sean was reacquainted with the equipment and talked through safety measures and hand signals.

With his gear checked and enthusiasm high, he was hoisted into the pool. What began as a guided session quickly turned into a solo dive, as muscle memory took over.

On his return to the water, Sean said:

“It was absolutely magic. When I got in the water, I was a bit apprehensive about whether I would float or not! But it was ok! I was moving smoothly, and I felt very confident. I felt like my illness had gone.

“I didn’t think I’d ever be able to experience this feeling again. Thanks to Mel, Worthington Lake and Wigan Scuba Divers for giving me this opportunity. I loved it.”

Melanie Hart, Activity Coordinator at Worthington Lake, said:

“Sean was an avid instructor back in his time, and his passion for diving has always been there! We got chatting when he first arrived at the home and have been working in the background ever since.

“It’s really important to take positive risks to help residents age with vibrancy. Just because you have a disability, or you’re diagnosed with dementia your life shouldn’t just stop. I was holding back the tears on the way home in the car, just seeing the positive impact it had on Sean was indescribable.”

Tessa De Weghe, Diving and Training Officer and Diving for All Instructor at Wigan Scuba Divers, said:

“Our Wigan based non-profit BSAC Scuba Diving branch was set up in January 2024, initially for people with a disability who felt excluded from other clubs. I was born deaf and, despite now being able to hear in one ear after surgeries, I once feared I’d never be able to dive, so I understand the feeling of thinking you’re unable to do something due to a disability or condition.

“We aim to give people of all abilities the opportunity to experience diving, and today Sean was better than some qualified divers I've seen underwater, proof that thinking outside the box makes all the difference!”

Sean’s story is a testament to the power of inclusive, person-centred care and a reminder that some passions never fade.

Lovett Care Announces The Opening Of The Waterside Care Home In St Helens

Lovett Care has announced that The Waterside Care Home in St Helens is now open and has proudly welcomed its first resident, Billy Brown.

Clare Richards, an experienced and compassionate leader in the care sector, has been appointed as the General Manager of The Waterside. Clare and her team are committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment where residents feel at home while receiving

the expert care they need.

“We are thrilled to bring The Waterside Care Home to St Helens,” said Keith Crockett, CEO of Lovett Care. “Our goal is to provide outstanding, person-centred care in a setting that feels like home.

With our exceptional facilities, highly trained team, and cutting-edge technology, we are confident that The Waterside will be a fantastic addition to the community. We warmly invite everyone to visit The Waterside Care Home, explore our beautiful facilities, and meet our friendly team.”

Guisborough Care Home Resident Celebrates 101st Birthday

HC-One’s Park House Care Home, in Guisborough, Redcar and Cleveland, was filled with warmth and joy as its eldest resident, Beryl Ward, celebrated her 101st birthday, on the 29th March, surrounded by her loving family.

After the grand celebrations of her centenary last year, Beryl’s family opted for a more intimate gathering this time, with the support of the Park House team.

The occasion was marked with a special family brunch in the memory care floor lounge, where Beryl enjoyed quality time with her daughter Margaret, son-in-law Charley, son Derek, and daughter-in-law Michelle. Adding to the joy of the day, Beryl’s grandson also made a visit, bringing along her great-grandchild to share in the celebration.

To make the day even more memorable, Beryl’s room was decorated with birthday banners, and she was delighted to receive a large 101st birthday helium balloon. An especially handmade birthday card and a

of flowers were also presented to her as tokens of love and appreciation.

Beryl’s milestone birthday was a heartwarming reminder of the strong family bonds and sense of community that make Park House such a special place. The staff at the residential and residential dementia care home were honoured to be a part of her day and to help create a meaningful celebration for Beryl and her family.

Jennifer Draper, Care Home Manager at HC-One’s Park House Care Home, said:

“We are always delighted to celebrate special moments with our residents.

“Beryl is a cherished member of our community, and it was wonderful to see her surrounded by loved ones on her 101st birthday.”

Country Star Jack Browning Grants

Resident’s Wish at Brewster House

On Wednesday 2nd April, country music rising star Jack Browning brought joy and unforgettable memories to Brewster House Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group, when he made a surprise appearance to fulfil a very special wish. Keith, a resident at Brewster House, was asked what one thing would make him smile; he expressed his love for country music and his wish to see a live performance. Thanks to the incredible support from the FaNs Network, lifestyle coordinator Leoni Kempen was able to reach out to Jack Browning, who gladly agreed to visit the home.

Jack, who performed at the prestigious C2C Festival in London just two weeks ago, gave an intimate performance for Keith and fellow residents. Keith shared his excitement and was ecstatic to have a singer perform just for

himself and the rest of the residents and team at Brewster House. The atmosphere during the event was filled with happiness, smiles, and a shared love for music. Even after the performance ended, residents were still buzzing with excitement, chatting about the experience and the presence of such a talented artist in their home.

Leoni expressed her thanks to Jack for his visit. The residents at Brewster House feel "very lucky," and the home "are sure he will be a future superstar." With support from the FaNs Network, which works tirelessly to enhance life in care homes and keep community spirit alive, this special event was made possible – and will be remembered for a long time.

beautiful bouquet

Cherry Trees Care Home Strikes Gold at the Rotherham Care Home Olympics

The annual Rotherham Care Home Olympics has just taken place, and after an epic four-sport challenge, Cherry Trees Care Home has been declared the winner!

Held at the New York Stadium, home of Rotherham United Football Club, the Care Home Olympics saw Cherry Trees take on teams from three other local care homes in dominoes, bowling, trivia, and boccia.

Team Cherry Trees took the competition very seriously, starting their training 10 weeks ahead of the event to ensure they were up to standard.

The victorious team, made up of Sheila, Christine, Gordon, Roy, Coral, Phyllis, Dennis, Ann, and Margaret looked fantastic in their team uniforms.

Once the first half of the competition was over, Rotherham United Community Trust, which organised the event, put on a magnificent lunch for the competitors.

Ending the events on a high, participants and their support teams even had the chance to dance and sing along to "Sweet Caroline" and "Que Sera Sera".

Margaret and Gordon each received an extra medal for their achievements in the games, with Margaret winning the trivia quiz and Gordon taking the top spot in Boccia. When Gordon received his award, he was in disbelief and exclaimed, "Am I dreaming?"

The overall winners were announced by Hakeem Odoffin, central defender for Rotherham United FC's first team.

Sheila, a resident at Cherry Trees Care Home, said: “I had a brilliant day out today! We couldn't be prouder to represent Cherry Trees this year.”

Lisa Webster, Activities Coordinator at Cherry Trees Care Home, said: “I'm beaming with pride! Our residents have been so committed over the past 10 weeks and haven't missed a single training session. Their dedication was truly inspiring, so bringing that trophy home is such a special moment for us all.”

“She continued: “We would like to say a huge thank you to the Rotherham United Community Trust for organising such a brilliant day. It was lovely to meet up with other care home residents and their dedicated support staff from our community here in Rotherham.”

Retired Racing Greyhounds Bring Janice Joy at Wolverhampton Care Home

Retired racing greyhounds from Home Run Hounds have brought joy and a sense of connection to a lifelong greyhound enthusiast at her Sanctuary Care home in Wolverhampton.

Born and raised in Wolverhampton, 75-year-old Janice Holloway’s affinity for greyhounds began in her youth and flourished during her six-year career at Monmore Green Stadium.

Janice worked in the office at the stadium in Wolverhampton, where she developed a deep passion for the sport and the incredible canine athletes.

This love was rediscovered shortly after widow Janice moved into Sanctuary Care’s Lime Tree Court Residential Care Home in Bilston, a not-for-profit care home which provides residential, dementia and respite care for 60 residents.

Upon learning of Janice’s history and special bond with the racing breed, the care team at Lime Tree Court partnered with Home Run Hounds, a charity dedicated to rehoming retired racing greyhounds.

The charity also involves the hounds in various community activities, including regular visits to the Wolverhampton care home, where they bring joy to the residents.

The reunion has had a transformational effect on Janice. The regular sessions with greyhounds Finn, Popeye and Johnny have given her a renewed sense of purpose

and continuity. It gives Janice so much confidence when she proudly introduces the dogs to her fellow residents during their visits, which also bring back wonderful memories of her days at Monmore Green.

Janice said:

“I love greyhounds. I wish I could keep one and it could curl up on my bed with me. They bring back lots of happy memories of when I worked at the racecourse and of the Yorkies we had when my husband was alive.”

Tyler Durnall, Care Home Manager at Lime Tree Court Residential Care Home added:

“It brings us such joy to see Janice’s eyes light up and her beaming smile when the greyhounds visit - it makes her day and is very special.

“We are dedicated to creating experiences that provide a sense of continuity, enabling our residents to reconnect with their past passions and continue doing the things they love. This is so important to ensure our residents enjoy fulfilled, meaningful and happy lives.

“We also know the amazing benefits that animal therapy can have on residents, from improving mood to encouraging communication and engagement, so we encourage everyone to get involved when the greyhounds come and visit!”

Northampton Home Set To Welcome Community In By Hosting Spring Fayre

A Northampton home will be opening its doors to the community by hosting a spring fayre.

MHA Rushden Park will be looking to replicate the success of their Christmas Fayre where over £600 was raised.

The spring fayre will take place on Saturday the 19th of April from 1pm to 4pm.

The fayre will include a whole host of activities including a barbeque, a mocktail stall, an easter egg hunt and more than 20 stalls including a jewellery stall with items made by one of the residents.

MHA Rushden Park provides residential and nursing care for 65 residents.

Shannon Sargen, activities coordinator said: “We had a very successful event last time and are hoping for more of the same.

“The spring fayre will be an open event for all ages, and we are looking forward to welcoming the local community back into MHA

Rushden Park.

“We are hoping to raise some funds for the home, and once we know what we have raised, we will have a poll and let the residents decide what they want to do with the money.

“More than 20 stalls have been confirmed so we are hoping it will be another successful event.

“It will be a real team effort, there will be a lot of hands-on deck, and some staff members will come in on their day off to volunteer.

“We are looking to work with businesses in the area to provide some services and are more than happy to have conversations with them on how they can support us.

“We are very confident the fayre will be popular, hopefully the weather is kind to us, and we have an amazing turnout.”

If you are a local business in the area and would like to support MHA

Rushden Park, contact the home.

'The Best Birthday Ever': Studley Care Home Resident Celebrates 101st Birthday

A resident at HC-One’s Haywood Lodge Care Home, in Studley, marked his incredible 101st birthday surrounded by family, friends, and a community that adores him on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

Turning 101 is no small feat but for Haywood Lodge resident Charles Barnes, it was a day to cherish, topped with cake, laughter, and heartfelt gifts that made it “the best birthday ever” – surpassing his milestone 100th celebration last year. The festivities kicked off with a delightful party at Haywood Lodge, featuring a scrumptious buffet lunch and a birthday cake that Charles could not get enough of.

Joined by his dear friend and fellow resident Ann, as well as his loving family, the day was a testament to the vibrant spirit Charles brings to the care home. The celebration was made even more special by the outpouring of love from local schoolchildren.

Pupils from Mappleborough Green Church of England Primary School

sent Charles a collection of beautiful birthday cards, while the children of St George’s Church of England First School – Zelda, Areeba, Vincent, and Filip – presented him with a personalised card filled with sweet messages and a train-themed jigsaw puzzle, a nod to his sharp mind and love for a chal-

lenge.

Their bond with Charles has grown through his visits to the school, where he has captivated them with tales from his remarkable life. Charles was showered with thoughtful gifts, including four word search puzzles and a framed “Year You Were Born” keepsake from the Haywood Lodge team.

Charles had several jobs over the years where he mainly worked in the shoe repair industry, including making army boots for the soldiers before being enlisted into war himself. Charles spent many years working at Cadburys in Birmingham, and he is still savouring the mountain of chocolate Cadbury’s gifted him for his 100th birthday.

After retiring at 75 alongside his shoe repair shop boss, Charles embraced his passion for dancing – a hobby that kept him light on his feet well into retirement.

When asked about his secret to a long life, Haywood Lodge resident Charles Barnes said:

“My secret to a long life is to enjoy what you do and be happy.”

Government Rejects House of Lords Bid To Exclude NHS Hospitals From £75 Million ‘High Street Levy’

NHS Hospitals will now be forced to pay a new Government ‘levy’, worth around £75 million a year, under the plans drawn up to subsidise the tax bills of high street firms from 2026 despite the House of Lords amending legislation to exclude healthcare properties such as NHS Hospitals.

The Government announced, at last year’s Autumn Budget, to address the tax burden imbalance between online retailers and bricks and mortar high street firms, from 2026, that they intend to introduce permanently lower business rates multipliers for high street retail, hospitality and leisure business premises with a rateable value of less than £500,000.

The Government said that to make that high street tax cut fiscally sustainable, and revenue neutral, it would be funded through a new higher multiplier, dubbed the ‘high street levy’, with a supplement of up to 10p for the most valuable properties, those with a rateable value of £500,000 or more, which they said captures the majority of large distribution warehouses including those used by the online giants such as Amazon. Despite the House of Lords amending the legislation to exclude “healthcare” from the new ‘levy’, Lord Khan, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said “while there have been amendments made to the Bill for the Commons to consider, the Government do not accept them.”

new ‘levy’ including major hospitals such as the Royal London Hospital, Royal Deby Hospital, Bristol’s Southmead Hospital as well as smaller hospitals like

Leigh Infirmary in Lancashire if the will of the House of Lords is ignored by the Government and the legislation receives Royal Assent.

Alex Probyn, Practice Leader of EAP Property Tax at Ryan, said: “the amendment from the House of Lords was both sensible and logical – the very largest properties, just like NHS Hospitals, aren’t necessarily those with the broadest shoulders”.

Whilst the exact amount which will be raised by the ‘levy’ won’t be known until later this year when new rateable values are given to all 2 million non-domestic properties in England, ahead of the 2026 revaluation, Ryan say the ‘high street levy’ for NHS Hospitals would likely be in the region of £75 million on current estimates.

The bill also contained provisions relating to private schools and the removal of their 80% charity rate relief. Local Councils have now been asked to immediately remove the relief effective from 1st April and reissue tax demands. This move will affect 1,139 private schools registered as charities and is expected to raise an additional extra £70 million in business rates revenue according to Ryan,

This started the process of the bill moving between the Houses, known as parliamentary ‘ping pong’, but with neither House prepared to concede, the House of Lords were forced to abandon their amendments with the bill receiving Royal Assent yesterday (3rd April) and becoming law.

According to the global tax and software firm Ryan 297 NHS Hospitals in England will be subject to the

Business rates bills are calculated by multiplying the property’s rateable value, an estimate of open market rent, by figures set by the Government each year.

The multiplier figures depend on the value of the property with ratepayers paying the multiplier amount for every £1 of rateable value.

Business rates are devolved to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

County Durham Care Home Colleague Set To Brave

The Shave To Raise Funds For Alzheimer’s Society

HC-One’s Stoneleigh Care Home in Annfield Plain, Stanley in County Durham, is preparing to open its doors to welcome in their local community to attend their Easter Fayre event taking place on Thursday, April 17, 10am – 2pm.

Stoneleigh’s Easter Fayre will offer a variety of community activities, including a chocolate tombola, guess-the-sweets game, name-the-bunny contest, Easter raffle, bottle tombola, preloved clothing sale, bake sale, and face painting.

The event will also feature an Easter bonnet competition with Croft School students, refreshments including tea, coffee, and snacks, and Ice Dreams ice cream.

During the Easter Fayre, Sarah Parkin, Home Administrator at HC-One’s Stoneleigh Care Home will be preparing to brave the shave at 2pm once the Easter Fayre comes to an end to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society.

Sarah is aiming to raise £500 for the Alzheimer’s Society and so far, has managed to raise £400.

When asked why she decided to brave the shave to raise funds for the

Stoneleigh Care Home said:

“I love helping people – if I can make a positive difference to just one person, if I can make one person smile each day, then I have achieved something good. At Stoneleigh Care Home, we look after and support residents who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia

“At Stoneleigh Care Home we host events to raise money for a variety of charities several times a year. I wanted to do something as a way of showing our residents and their families that I care and I wanted to do something to support whose who are affected by this terrible disease, of which there is currently no cure for.

“I love my red hair; however, I am shaving it off to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society to help support people living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia. I hope you will help support me in this challenge by donating a small amount to see me go from red hair to no hair in minutes.”

Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin Brings Blessing and Inspiration to Chartwell House

Chartwell House Care Home in Broadstairs was honoured to welcome The Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover and Bishop in Canterbury, last month. A pioneering figure in the Church of England, she was the first female Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons and a former Chaplain to Her Majesty the Queen. She also played a historic role in the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Her visit celebrated faith and community, emphasising the importance of spiritual connection for residents, families, and the team.

Bishop Rose was joined by Anna Chaplain Judith Andrews, Reverend Phil Barnes from St Mark’s Church, and David Holton from St Laurence Church, whose presence made the occasion even more special. The visit was inspired by Judith’s commitment to bringing worship beyond church walls, ensuring those unable to attend services still receive spiritual and emotional support. Moved by this outreach, Bishop Rose was eager to experience it firsthand.

During her time at Chartwell House, Bishop Rose delivered a heartfelt sermon centred on the parable of the lost sheep, drawing upon her own personal journey of faith. She shared moving reflections from her recently published autobiography, The Girl from Montego Bay, recounting her early years of hardship and how discovering God’s love gave her a profound sense of belonging and purpose.

Reflecting on her visit, Bishop Rose shared her delight in Chartwell House’s welcoming atmosphere, saying, “I walked in, and it felt as though I was in Miami. The sun is shining, and I tell you what, I’m going back home to my husband and saying, ‘I have found the place where I want us to be later on.’ It’s beautiful.” She went on to deliver a sermon that deeply resonated with residents and guests, reminding them that regardless of life’s challenges, everyone has value. “So I want to encourage you to remember that just like the lost sheep, every single one of us is important in God’s eyes. And it is because you’re important in God’s eyes that Judith and the team here care. Because, in effect, we are God’s hands and feet and voices.”

She further reflected on love and unity, quoting scripture: “There’s a wonderful passage of scripture which says, ‘How can you say you love God whom you’ve never seen and yet you do not love your brothers and sisters whom you can see?’ So I’d like to tell everyone that we are brothers and sisters.”

The visit concluded with a blessing from Bishop Rose, bringing comfort and encouragement to all in attendance. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up the light of His countenance and give you peace.” Her words left a profound sense of solace and reassurance among residents, families, and the team.

For resident Dorothy Thompson, the visit was deeply meaningful. “Well, we are highly honoured to have a presence here, and she's a lovely lady. Very warm and soft. We appreciate her coming here. We can't get to her, so she comes to us. It's lovely,” she said, before adding, “And she had such special words about Chartwell House. She said some lovely things.”

Her daughter, Dayle Brain, echoed this sentiment, saying, “It’s amazing for the home as well, because they do so much. Not every home does that, so it’s quite special. When my mum first arrived, she was nervous and wanted to go back home. But after a recent hospital stay, she said, ‘I want to go home,’ and by that she meant Chartwell House. That says it all.”

Judith Andrews expressed her gratitude for the growing worshipping community at Chartwell House, stating, “I’d just like to say thank you to Chartwell House for welcoming us and the church so readily and making it so easy for us to build this community. I really appreciate it from the bottom of my heart.”

Jude Coveney, Admissions Manager at Chartwell House, also extended her thanks, saying, “We are incredibly grateful to Bishop Rose for her inspiring visit and for sharing such a powerful message with our residents, families, and team. We deeply appreciate the ongoing support from our local faith communities in enriching the lives of those at Chartwell House. A special thank you also goes to Judith Andrews for her unwavering dedication in fostering a spiritual community within our home. Her efforts have created a sense of belonging and connection that is truly invaluable.”

Gurmit Chana of Boutique Care Homes, reflected on the significance of the day, saying, “Today, we were especially blessed to welcome Bishop Rose. Her sermon on the lost sheep was truly inspiring and reaffirmed why she is such a profound and influential leader. We thank her for her visit and for blessing our home.”

Alzheimer’s Society, Sarah Parkin, Home Administrator at HC-One’s

CATERING FOR CARE

icesupp – Nourishing Supplements In Frozen Format

A family business has launched the UK’s first frozen nutritional supplement, ideal for care home residents who may be struggling to eat or drink.

icesupp are 100% plant-based frozen supplements, enriched with key vitamins, minerals, protein and calories, delivered in ice lolly formats to provide an easy-to-consume source of nutrition.

Amy Smith and her partner Robert Upton got the idea when they realised the lack of options for Amy’s father Ray as he struggled to build and maintain his weight during bowel cancer treatment.

Managing a conventional diet was very difficult, and the nutritional supplements available on prescription were unpalatable - too thick and sickly. However, Ray did discover that ice lollies were soothing and easier to consume.

“We were frustrated that the ice lollies Dad was having were just filled with sugar and water, and didn’t provide the nutrition and quality calories that he needed to keep his weight and strength up,” says Amy.

“The idea for icesupp was born – and it became our mission to create something that would combine the nutritional elements of a supplement shake with the more palatable form of a soothing iced refreshment.”

BAPEN’s Malnutrition and Nutritional Care Survey (2023) highlighted that nearly well over half (48%) of adults screened across UK health and care settings were at risk of disease-related malnutrition. This was particularly high amongst individuals with cancer, gastrointestinal conditions respiratory conditions, frailty and neurological diseases – so this is a very real issue for carers and families across the UK.

Following two funding rounds, Amy and Rob worked Reading University’s Food Science Department and a team of specialist advisors including top dietitians, an oncologist and a GP to create their unique, first-tomarket products, which come in two flavours – Mango & Passionfruit and Mixed Berries. 100% plant-based, each 86ml supplement pouch contains 5g of protein, 2.5g of fibre and 150 calories -

helping those who are struggling to eat to build strength and energy. A box of 12 products costs £23.75 from icesupp or Amazon. The products are shipped in ambient liquid form to be conveniently frozen then deliver the soothing sorbet-like iced consistency.

Nick Dutton, of Primrose Bank Care Home, says: "Helping those we care for to maintain and increase their nutritional intake is no easy task, made even more challenging when coupled with other dietary requirements, palliative care needs and the general challenges the care sector faces.

“When we came across icesuspp we were interested straight away. Having seen our own relatives struggling to eat well during palliative care and facing malnutrition and knowing the difficulties faced with different nutritional supplements and changing taste, we knew that a different way to deliver nutrients and flavour was a great idea.

“icesupps taste really good and we have had brilliant feedback from everyone in the home, residents, families and staff alike. We love that they are easy to store and also easy to eat without needing lots of preparation to make them enjoyable like some ONS.

“It’s great to have another tool for our team to use to improve our residents’ lives."

Amy concludes: “We have created an iced supplement that soothes and nourishes, helping to provide a moment of refreshing relief for those in need. Our goal is to help families like ours, who have experienced the devastating effects of dramatic weight loss and malnutrition, which can impact anyone, however those that are particularly at risk include those with an illness like our Dad such as cancer, and those aged over the age of 65, especially if they are in a care home or have been recently admitted to hospital.”

Dietitian Corrine Toyn says: “Malnutrition can be caused by range of factors. In the case of Ray, it was the side effects of the illness and his treatment, which is very common – but we know it is a real issue in care homes, along with dehydration. Oral nutrition supplements have been part of the solution to malnutrition for a while, as long as patients find them palatable and are compliant, but the majority of the ‘ready to drink’ supplements are highly concentrated, with a thick consistency that can be difficult to consume. Improving the flavour, mouth-feel and variety is vital to prevent patients’ taste fatigue, provide choice, and ultimately improve their quality of life. icesupp is such a brilliant idea, created with love and expertise, to respond to a real problem. It’s been incredible to see the reviews from customers, saying that icesupp tastes great and is easy to consume.”

For further information, email info@icesupp.com or visit the website at www.icesupp.com

Heathcare professionals can access the sample service at www.icesupp.com/pages/the-healthcare-professionals-hub

allmanhall Deliver Savings and Improvements

For a Growing Care Group – Is It Time to Find Out How You Could Benefit Too?

Taylor & Taylor, a group of family-owned residential care homes approached food procurement experts, allmanhall to achieve scalable cost savings and efficiencies to support their growth plans. They needed to ensure no detrimental impact to the excellent quality of their food offering and their residents’ dining pleasure.

Their desire was to achieve a 5% food cost saving and to ensure ongoing effective management of catering budgets and invoicing. Operationally, access to reports and insights were key, as was ease of ordering and management of stock and deliveries.

allmanhall undertook a like-for-like benchmark and identified achievable food cost savings of 11.4% - more than double the initial objective!

allmanhall delivered tech demos of the catering control platform for Taylor and Taylor, ensuring it met their needs and provided training for the team. As well as providing useful operational functionality like stock taking and standing orders, the catering control platform proposed would also give access to management reports and facilitate central billing and conversion of all supplier invoices in to 1 per month. Samples and on-site supplier meetings were also arranged on behalf of the homes, to confirm that the quality was to the required standard.

allmanhall have also supported Taylor and Taylor with the launch of a community engagement event for one of their newest homes.

A few months into the contract, the actual results were found to be an 18% food cost saving! You can watch this short video on You Tube to find out more… www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2QrrmaiG1Y

“From day 1, the care and attention provided by allmanhall has been exceptional. The team truly listen to us, to what our challenges are and are always willing to help in any way they can. Their approach is thorough and responsive, meaning we feel fully supported. Everyone we’ve met from allmanhall has been hands-on, down to earth, genuine and considerate.

We’ve been impressed by the savings we’ve already seen, the flexibility regarding suppliers and by the excellent quality. The consolidation of invoices into 1 per month is a huge win.

We have relationships and contact with people across the allmanhall team – all there to help and to advise or resolve depending on what we need. With challenges around labour shortages and food inflation, this is hugely valued. It frees up the team and gives us peace of mind.

We would wholeheartedly recommend allmanhall’s services to others in the care sector and look forward to continuing to grow our offering and provide outstanding food for our residents, with allmanhall as our trusted partners.”

allmanhall is an owner-managed, award-winning and trusted food procurement partner for care organisations across the UK. We help clients with a range of needs, including cost savings, administrative efficiencies, supplier management, dietetics and nutrition support, and sustainability goals. Get in touch to find out more:

Email: hello@allmanhall.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 745520

Website: allmanhall.co.uk

LinkedIn: @allmanhall

HYGIENE & INFECTION CONTROL

Infection Control and Prevention: Safeguarding Health in Care Homes and Beyond

By Derek Aaronson, Founder & CEO of

Hart Home Group (www.harthomegroup.co.uk)

Infection control and prevention are critical components in safeguarding the health and well-being of individuals in medical, commercial, and domestic environments.

For the independent nursing and residential care home sector, maintaining stringent infection control measures is not just a matter of compliance, but a fundamental responsibility to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents. As the world continues to grapple with new and evolving health threats, the importance of infection prevention cannot be overstated.

THE

IMPORTANCE OF INFECTION CONTROL IN CARE HOMES

For nursing and residential care homes, infection control is especially crucial. Residents often have weakened immune systems due to age or pre-existing conditions, making them more susceptible to infections. In such settings, even a minor lapse in hygiene protocols can lead to the rapid spread of pathogens, which can have devastating consequences. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) continue to be a significant risk in care homes, leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and, in severe cases, death.

Therefore, infection control in care homes requires a combination of effective policies, thorough cleaning routines, and specialised equipment. Staff must be well-trained in infection prevention, and robust systems need to be in place to manage outbreaks when they occur. However, achieving a high standard of hygiene in care homes comes with its own set of challenges.

INFECTION CONTROL IN CARE HOMES

CHALLENGES OF

THE

Maintaining high levels of hygiene in care homes can be difficult for several reasons. The close proximity of residents, especially in shared rooms, communal spaces, and bathrooms, increases the risk of cross-contamination. Frequent touching of high-contact surfaces such as handrails, doorknobs, and shared equipment can facilitate the spread of germs. In addition, staff turnover and the demanding nature of care work mean that infection control protocols may not always be followed consistently.

The traditional reliance on manual cleaning methods can also be timeconsuming and may not always be effective in eradicating harmful bacteria and viruses. With the rise of antimicrobial-resistant organisms (AROs), which are more difficult to treat, care homes must adopt more advanced solutions to combat the spread of infection.

SOLUTIONS TO ENHANCE INFECTION PREVENTION IN CARE HOMES

The solution to these challenges lies in a combination of better practices, staff training, and, crucially, the use of advanced infection control technologies and equipment. Specialised hospital-grade fixtures, such as antimicrobial door handles, bed rails, and mobility aids, are invaluable in preventing the spread of infection in care homes. These fixtures are designed with non-porous materials that are easy to clean and resistant to microbial growth, ensuring that harmful pathogens have fewer places to thrive.

In addition, the use of touchless technologies is gaining traction in care homes as a way to reduce human contact with frequently touched surfaces. For example, touchless faucets, soap dispensers, and hand sanitisers can significantly minimise the risk of cross-contamination. These innovations not only make it easier to maintain hygiene but also improve the overall user experience for both staff and residents, especially for those with limited mobility.

Innovative cleaning solutions, such as UV-C sterilisation devices, are also helping care homes maintain higher standards of hygiene. UV-C light has been shown to be effective at killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces and in the air , providing an added layer of protection that manual cleaning alone cannot guarantee.

THE ROLE OF DESIGN AND PRODUCT INNOVATION

The role of design and product innovation in infection control is crucial. Products designed with infection prevention in mind—such as hospitalgrade furniture, non-porous flooring, and antimicrobial textiles—play a crucial role in reducing the potential for cross-contamination in care homes. By choosing products made from materials that are resistant to bacterial growth and easier to sanitise, care homes can significantly reduce the risk of infections spreading.

Mobility aids, including walkers, wheelchairs, and lift chairs, are another area where innovation is making a difference. Many of these products now come with antimicrobial coatings that help reduce the risk of pathogens accumulating on surfaces frequently touched by both residents and staff.

These small changes in the design of everyday equipment can contribute to a cleaner, safer environment for both residents and caregivers. Moreover, the growing use of digital solutions, such as automated temperature monitoring, air quality control systems, and remote monitoring devices, is transforming infection control in care homes. These technologies allow staff to track and manage infection risks more efficiently, making it easier to identify potential outbreaks before they escalate. EMERGING TRENDS: TOUCHLESS TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

As the infection control industry evolves, there are two key trends that are gaining momentum: the integration of touchless technology and the use of sustainable materials. The increasing adoption of touchless systems, such as motion-activated doors and automated sanitation stations, is helping to prevent the transmission of pathogens, especially in hightraffic areas. These technologies not only improve infection control but also enhance the overall user experience by reducing the need for physical interaction, which is particularly beneficial in care settings where residents may have limited mobility or dexterity.

Sustainability is another important consideration in infection prevention. The use of environmentally friendly materials—such as biodegradable cleaning products, sustainable textiles, and recyclable medical supplies— ensures that infection control measures are both effective and responsible. The growing demand for eco-friendly solutions in care homes is part of a larger global movement towards sustainability, where reducing environmental impact goes hand-in-hand with enhancing hygiene standards. Infection control and prevention are vital to ensuring the health and safety of residents in care homes. While the challenges of maintaining hygiene in these environments are significant, the solutions are becoming increasingly effective with advancements in technology and product innovation. From hospital-grade fixtures and antimicrobial mobility aids to touchless technology and sustainable materials, these innovations are helping to reduce cross-contamination and improve overall safety. As the sector continues to evolve, adopting these innovations will be key to enhancing infection prevention protocols and safeguarding the health of vulnerable individuals across nursing and residential care homes. Through a combination of best practices, innovation, and thoughtful design, care homes can create a safer, cleaner, and more resilient environment for residents and staff alike.

The Evolution and Regulation of Cleaning Chemicals: A White Paper to Guide Buyers

How can buyers of cleaning chemicals find sustainable solutions that are also effective and safe to use. The Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA) has published a White Paper designed to help: The Evolution and Regulation of Cleaning Chemicals.

Buyers and end users of cleaning chemicals want environmentally sustainable, safe and effective cleaning chemicals. Environmental mes-

sages can be seductive, particularly when coupled with highly competitive prices. In the regulated arena of cleaning chemicals, it is difficult to produce products that are effective, have a minimal impact on the environment and are sustainable. It takes years of investment and testing to get the products right and clear the regulatory hurdles. It’s not surprising, therefore, that some organisations are looking for short cuts.

They argue technology is moving so fast there is no time for independent verification or regulation. Essentially, they are suggesting the need for some kind of environmentally sustainable solutions outweighs the need to know if the solution is indeed environmentally sustainable, if it works or how to use it to be certain it is safe.

Regulations, however, matter. They guarantee safety. They underpin transparency and ensure consistency. They provide a framework for comparison, so a buyer really knows if they are getting the product or solution they need. They also provide accountability, giving buyers a route to recourse if needed. In short, they underwrite an ethical approach.

The CHSA’s White Paper was written by Peter Thistlethwaite, Technical Manager – Cosmetics and Biocides at MSL Solution Providers. Peter is a Microbiologist and MSL Solution Providers offers an integrated regulatory and laboratory testing service. Its in-house accredited microbiology and virology laboratories provide a comprehensive range of standard tests, including efficacy testing against bacteria, fungi,

spores, viruses, mycobacteria, legionella, and algae.

The White Paper explains the evolution of cleaning chemicals. It explains how testing systems with recognised methodologies were introduced to “to prove chemicals were effective but hand-in-hand they gave a way to remove fraudulent products, offering better protections”. Peter explains in the White Paper, “Regulations are intended to ensure a cleaning product is safe for the user and the environment when used correctly. The aim of enforcing regulatory requirements is to ensure products on the market can be trusted and that the companies selling them maintain the highest standards of integrity.”

Peter continues: “Product innovation means testing and regulatory requirements in the biocide market are becoming more complex, and the costs to enter markets are rising. This is expected to lead to a rise in fraudulent products, bypassing or ignoring regulations. Many are making claims about safety and efficacy without the proper technical support from correct testing. They are also using eco-friendly language to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Buyers need to beware.” @CHSACleaning www.CHSA.co.uk

Angloplas Dispensers Help Reduce the Risk of Cross Infection

Angloplas are a UK manufacturer who specialise in producing dispensers for the health and hygiene industry. Although these are designed to keep the workplace tidy and uncluttered they are, more importantly, built knowing the control of healthcareassociated infections (HCAIs) are a priority for healthcare providers, and who are employing a combination of infection prevention and control strategies, including hand hygiene, cleaning, training and the adoption of new technologies, to tackle the problem.

As a result, a wide range of infection control products and technologies are emerging on the market, including antimicrobial technology. Angloplas’ range of dispensers are produced in the world’s

first proven Antimicrobial PVC with silver ion technology and which is exclusive to Angloplas. This helps reduce the risk of cross infection by stopping the growth of bacteria and mould and works continuously for the lifetime of the product, reducing levels of bacteria such as MRSA, E Coli, Legionella, Salmonella and mould by up to 99.99%. For non-clinical environments Angloplas has recently launched its new Budget Range of products which are made to the same exacting standards as the antimicrobial protected ones but with lower price tags.

You can order Angloplas products directly from its website at www.angloplas.co.uk

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

Ensuring strict hygiene standards in care homes is a complex yet essential task, particularly when it comes to laundry processes. With infection control a top priority, operators must comply with stringent regulations, including CQC guidelines and WRAS Category 5 requirements. The latter classifies care environments as high risk due to the potential contamination of water supplies, necessitating specialist equipment and backflow prevention measures to safeguard residents and staff. Failure to meet these standards can not only compromise infection control but also lead to regulatory penalties and reputational damage.

Laundry plays a critical role in infection prevention, yet many care homes still rely on domestic machines that are not fit for purpose. Unlike commercial alternatives, these machines do not achieve the necessary wash temperatures, cycle durations, or thermal disinfection standards required to remove harmful pathogens effectively. This not only increases infection risks but also puts facilities at risk of non-compliance. Furthermore, improper segregation of laundry—such as mixing soiled items with general loads—can accelerate the spread of infections, a concern that has only intensified in recent

years. Best practice guidance advises that care homes implement a clear separation of clean and contaminated laundry, supported by colour-coded processes to avoid cross-contamination.

Forbes Professional, an expert in commercial laundry solutions, advises care home operators to invest in WRAS-approved, commercial-grade washing machines and sluice systems designed specifically for healthcare environments. Miele’s hygiene-specific functionality, for example, ensures that thermal disinfection is achieved within every cycle, offering protection against bacteria and viruses. Additionally, hot water feeds, appropriate drainage, and compliance with Category 5 backflow prevention are crucial in preventing contamination. With evolving compliance requirements and the ever-present risk of infection outbreaks, care homes need to ensure that their laundry operations are fully up to standard. Forbes provides expert guidance and tailored site surveys to help care operators navigate these challenges, ensuring their facilities remain both compliant and safe for residents and staff alike.

Lavamac Continues its Sustainability

We have recently set up a specialist facility in St. Neots, near Cambridge, in which we are going ahead with this specialist refurbishment programme. This programme involves purchasing existing machines, and replacing the parts on them, so that they are as good as new, whilst retaining the look and feel that existed before, but with a massively increased lifespan, and a warranty on the machines that’s as good as a warranty on a new machine to go with the refurbishment too.

Our refurbishment programme in our specialist facility includes stripping down the machines, and giving them a check-over, to see which parts, if any, can be carried over the refurbishment. Lavamac will only carry over the highest-quality parts from the machine from pre to post

info@laundrytec.com www.lavamac.eu

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Pinpoint P2 Alarm System Protects Staff in UK First

Pinpoint ltd, the UK’s leading provider of staff alarm systems to high-risk workplaces, has seen its P2 System installed in the UK’s first safe drug consumption facility, The Thistle.

The facility opened its doors on 13 January 2025 to provide a clean, safe space for the public to use drugs safely under clinical supervision. It also provides drug users with access to a wide range of treatment and support.

Pinpoint’s P2 Staff Attack System was chosen as the preferred staff safety alarm system to ensure the swift delivery of assistance in high-risk medical situations. Access to the Pinpoint P2 System ensures help can be summoned quickly providing staff with the peace of mind that help is forthcoming when they need it most.

Staff members at the Thistle will be given a personal alarm, or P2 PIT, at the start of each shift which can be activated if required with the simple press of a button.

Once activated, the P2 PIT communicates with receivers located throughout the building, which in turn notifies display devices of the exact location and severity of the alarm call. This provides vital information to enable colleagues to respond appropriately.

Daniel Waring, CEO of Pinpoint Limited, said:

“Pinpoint is proud to be part of this UK first Safer Drug Consumption Facility. Having worked with The Hunter Street Health Centre, where The Thistle is based, since 2003, we are well aware of the challenges staff may face in their day-to-day duties.

“The P2 System, chosen for its precision, reliability and durability, will ensure staff can access a response when they need it most, allowing them to carry out their duties without fear and provide the highest quality of care.”

Visit http://pinpoint.ltd.uk for further information or see the advert on page 19.

Skopos Studio: Providing the Perfect Design Fit for Your Home Furnishing Schemes

Skopos Studio is a new design library idea from Skopos, enabling interior designers for Care to pick from a large range of designs to suit their project.

Categorised under different design types, such as ‘Botanical and floral, textures, stripes and checks’ this format provides choice for customers to select their end use and appropriate flame retardant base-cloth, and then select the designs and colourways which can bring their schemes to life.

The Studio collection provides a easy ‘go-to’ option containing design inspiration to create a Caring‘Home from Home’ experience. Skopos have a long history in print, with over 50 years of design experience which shines through in the Studio binder, with samples of all designs available via the

website.

Designs in Skopos Studio have been developed to work hand in hand with our beautiful accent collections and upholstery fabrics for a cross-section of projects. Choose from our fabric-only solution or a full-service option, including measure, product make-up (curtains, cushions, blinds and bed-throws) and installation. If you require something unique, our Bespoke service can offer custom colour options for a minimum meterage.

View the complete collection: www.skoposfabrics.com/studio-prints See the advert on page 4 for more information.

Expert Water Sampling Services Throughout The UK

Chiltern Water & Environment was established in 1991 by Robert Hunt after gaining 25 years' experience as an operational and analytical scientist in the water supply industry. The company gained engineering and further management knowledge when David Hunt joined in 2012. Since then, other water industry professionals have added to the breadth of knowledge and experience within the company.

We have always provided high-quality consultancy, testing and remedial services in a professional but personable manner. Our steady growth has reflected our clients' trust in our services. Our current clients include large housing associations, pharmaceutical companies and facilities management companies, as well as individual landlords and small businesses. We ensure all our customers receive the same level of care and attention to detail.

Consort

Duty Holders of all commercial and public building premises are legally required to assess the risk from legionella to anyone using the water systems and put in place legionella control measures if required. The HSE has produced ACoP L8 and HSG274 as guidance for Duty Holders obligations.

We have clients throughout the South East, London and the Midlands, and carry out water tests nationally and internationally. We currently provide regular water sampling and testing for over 500 sites.

Tel: 01844 347678

Email: info@chilternwater.co.uk www.chilternwater.co.uk

See the advert on page 21 for more information.

Consort Claudgen’s innovation in the electric heating industry takes another leap forward by introducing Wi-Fi-enabled heaters to their low surface temperature (LST) range. These cutting-edge heaters offer unparalleled convenience and efficiency.

The heaters connect directly to Wi-Fi, enabling users to control heating through the digital control panel on the heater or via the Consort Connect app. With a comprehensive 7-day timer, which allows 24 individual heating periods per day, and features such as a lock function, open window detection, and custom automation, users can tailor their heating needs to their preferences.

Adding to the ease of use, users can view the energy consumption statistics of

all connected heaters, providing insights into usage patterns and potential savings. The LST heaters with Wi-Fi and occupancy sensors have a self-learning control ability. They utilise in-built occupancy sensors to detect and learn a user’s weekly presence in a room, creating an intuitive heating schedule. When the space is unoccupied, the heater conserves energy by switching to a setback temperature or frost protection mode.

BIM (Building Information Modelling) objects for the heaters are available for download from Consort’s website. 01646 692172 | sales@consortepl.com | www.consortepl.com

See the advert on page 5 for more information..

CareZips® Classic Adaptive Pants

CareZips® Classic are patented, easy dressing unisex adaptive pants designed for older and disabled people suffering with problems associated with continence, mobility, mental function and cognition. Suitable for persons living in care institutions, receiving care at home or living independently at home, CareZips® Classic enable people to dress themselves or with assistance from carers.

CareZips® Classic feature patented 3-zipper system, which opens the front of the pants from the waist to the knees for quicker access during toileting, continence pads changes and personal hygiene. The forward positioning of the two side zippers lessens pressure on sensitive hip areas, helping to eliminate discomfort. The third zipper facilitates simple full frontal opening for faster more dignified diaper changes, catheter adjustments, personal cleansing and hygiene routines.

CareZips® Classic have many benefits for the older and disabled users and their carers:

• People dressing themselves enjoy the practical functionality and versatility of the

CareZips® Classic, all day comfort and easy garment care.

• People dependent on assisted dressing appreciate quick easy dressing process with less stress, embarrassment and greater dignity offered by CareZips® Classic.

• CareZips® Classic offer practical gains to the carers, helping them to provide better care, whilst reducing physical efforts and saving valuable time.

CareZips® Classic are unisex, available in 6 sizes and 3 practical colours (i.e. black, charcoal and navy). Tapered fit at the ankles gives a tidy appearance. Made from breathable moisture-wicking 4-way stretchy crease-free and easy-care durable fabric, CareZips® Classic are comfortable, practical and conveniently functional.

For more information, contact Win Health Medical Ltd - 01835 864866www.win-health.com

See the advert on page 3 for further information on Win Health’s product range.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Rekindling Memories with Little Islands’ Themed Care Home Packages

At Little Islands, we understand the power of nostalgia in bringing comfort and joy to care home residents. Familiar surroundings, evocative sights, and meaningful sensory experiences can unlock treasured memories, sparking conversation and connection. For years, we have been crafting bespoke themed rooms and areas that do exactly that—transporting residents back to fond moments in their lives. However, bespoke designs often come at a premium, making them inaccessible for some care homes.

That’s why we have developed a range of standard themed packages, making it easier than ever for care homes to create high-quality, engaging spaces that foster reminiscence. Many homes have the capability to build themed areas themselves but sourcing appropriate and authentic content can be a challenge. Too often, well-intentioned efforts result in spaces that feel more like children’s play areas rather than immersive environments tailored for adults.

Our themed packages take the guesswork out of the process. Each package includes everything needed to transform a space, allowing your maintenance and care staff to set it up with ease. Most homes already have suitable furniture and decorative items to complement the theme, but we also offer optional extras to enhance and expand each setting as required.

Whether it’s a traditional British high street, a 1950s tearoom, or a classic seaside retreat, Little Islands’ thoughtfully designed themes ensure that your residents can enjoy a truly meaningful and immersive

Activities to Share

Since our founding in 2010, Activities to Share has been dedicated to enhancing the lives of those in care by providing thoughtfully designed activity products. Our mission is to support activity coordinators in delivering uplifting, engaging experiences that foster connection, joy, and well-being.

We achieve this by listening closely to your feedback and evolving with your needs. Whether over the phone, via email, WhatsApp, or Live Chat on our website, our team is always ready to offer advice and help you find just the right products to bring your ideas to life.

While we embrace the convenience of technology to expand our resources and share knowledge, we remain firm believers in the irreplaceable power of sensory

Serve in Style with Euroservice

experience. By stimulating multiple senses in a focused direction, these environments help trigger happy memories, encourage social interaction, and improve overall well-being.

With our themed packages, creating an engaging reminiscence space has never been easier or more affordable. Let’s bring back those cherished moments—together.

Our S.M.A.R.T. Room packages include:

Unique

• Traditional flame effect stove (For H&S the heat element is

• Double sided railway wall clock

• Themed Railway game and jigsaw puzzle

• Interior design Specification sheet

Contact us today on 01282 869802 or via hello@littleislands.org to discuss how we can help transform your care home.

See the advert on page 5 for more information.

engagement. That’s why we continue to make our Reminiscence Kits and Sensory Bags with real, tactile items that stimulate the senses. Some experiences—like popping bubbles for the splash, breathing in a familiar scent, or piecing together a puzzle with others—simply can’t be replicated on a screen. These sensory moments are invaluable in encouraging storytelling, sparking memories, and fostering conversation.

Our values remain rooted in this commitment to meaningful connection. We’re here to partner with you—the professionals on the front lines of care—to create a sense of structure, well-being, and fun for those who need it most.

Are you longing for your activity diary to be full? Look no further www.activitiestoshare.co.uk are here for you! See the advert on page 21 or: customers@activitiestoshare.co.uk

0117 966 6761 07900 6751 50

REM Care Range

MOWOOT II – proven solution to chronic constipation without medication

Developed by a team of doctors and other healthcare professionals, MOWOOT II performs gentle abdominal massage to speed up intestinal passage in people experiencing chronic constipation.

Clinically proven, safe and effective, relaxing and side-effects free, MOWOOT II Abdominal Massage Therapy System combats constipation and provides soothing relief to affected people. Easy to use and comfortable, the MOWOOT II treats and manages constipation in people with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis sufferers, Parkinson’s Disease patients and people with constipation related to prescription medication. MOWOOT II also helps to relieve idiopathic constipation experienced by menopausal and post-

menopausal women and older and elderly people. In clinical studies MOWOOT II increased evacuation frequency, softened stools, improved regularity, reduced gasses, relieved bloating and eased off abdominal discomfort. 10 to 20 minutes daily of relaxing abdominal massage with MOWOOT II rapidly reduces symptoms of constipation.

Evident results are experienced only a few days after the first treatment. Regular abdominal massage with MOOWOOT II ensures lasting health benefits and better quality of life.

MOWOOT II – effective solution to chronic constipation for better quality of life!

Supplied by Win Health Medical Ltd - 01835 864866 - www.win-health.com See page 3 of this issue for other Win Health products. MOWOOT II for Constipation Free Life

REM have been manufacturing furniture for the Hair & Beauty Sector for over 100 years and are now considered to be one of the largest manufacturers in both the UK & Europe. Our exclusive designs and meticulous British workmanship offer customers a wide range of furniture for every conceivable Salon environment. Understanding the growing requirement for Care & Residential Home Salons the REM Design Team have produced the Pendle Care range for the small, compact Care Home Salon. This new range includes ergonomically designed, height adjustable styling chairs and

the Pendle Easy Wash Unit with two ceramic basins allowing frontwash with wheelchair access and a tilting backwash basin for the more able clientele. Should the need arise, our experienced Design Team can help you create a stimulating Salon environment for your clients. The REM Salon Interior Design Package which includes 2D and 3D AutoCad plans and visuals can be ordered for only £295 +VAT and is fully refundable on an order placement of £3000 or more. Contact us on 01282 619977 or email sales@rem.co.uk See the advert on page 17 for details.

Oxford Up

The Oxford Up is an active manual stand aid, supporting assisted standing, seated transfers, and patient rehabilitation. Suitable for clients who require some assistance when standing but are able to participate and contribute effort to the process, the Up can also be deployed as a useful rehabilitation aid.

With a safe working load rating of 200kg (31st), the Up quickly disassembles into three separate components, significantly easing storage requirements and onward transportation. Reassembly takes a matter of seconds, and its ready for use again.

A large multi-point push handle aids manoeuvrability for the caregiver, and the foot push pad pro-

vides a means of generating forward momentum when moving a patient. Optimum positioning of the swing-away seat pads and knee support help ensure comfort for the patient. Adjustable leg opening allows closer access around furniture, promoting improved patient positioning and general ease of use. Additionally, the enclosed footplate ensures no accidental foot or toe entrapment associated with mechanical components.

Where additional seated support is required, the Oxford Deluxe Standing sling (With Clips) is fully compatible with the Up and available in three standard sizes: small, medium, and large. For more information including how and where to purchase, please contact the Oxford customer services team on 0344 811 1158 send an email to info@joerns.co.uk or visit our website at www.joerns.co.uk

Stay Safe with Smart Wireless Nurse Call

In the post pandemic world, we have all seen the effects of supply chain problems with the invasion of Ukraine and other alarming global factors, ever increasing costs of living and other more local issues which have driven up the rate of inflation over the last few years. The impact of this meant that most manufacturers of electronic products had to increase their prices as costs spiralled. This, of course, has impacted the end user. The most dramatic impact has been on the Care Industry. An industry that has lacked the support it desperately needs in these trying times.

Courtney Thorne, at the same time, took a strategic decision to take a close look at our core products, right down to component level, the objective being to make us less vulnerable to future global supply chain issues, and to reduce the cost of each product with the amin of ensuring that we deliver the same high quality product at a cost protected price. We had to ensure that this would happen without jeopardising the superb lev-

els of support we provide to our valued customer base.

This ground up review involved all departments from Research and Development right through to the Field Service team (and everything in-between). This in-depth collaboration took time as we had to ensure that each and every element was refined, perfected and tested to our (and our customers) rigorous requirements.

Whilst many organisations have limited-time or end of product line offers, we are very pleased to announce a price reduction on our core Connect and Connect Health Nurse Call system ranges. With flexible terms, full integration with Care Apps, celebrated service delivery and the most reliable and robust solution now at a new lower price, there has never been a better time to talk to us about a new nurse call system.

For more information email us at: info@c-t.co.uk or see the advert on this page.

Blaucomm Ltd - Telecommunications & Networks

Blaucomm’s Nurse Call Messaging Service (NMS) is the market leading solution to remove the dependency on noisy nurse call panels and pagers, through its intelligent software, which delivers the alerts straight to the care staff who need them.

Care homes are rapidly introducing smartphones for digital care planning and eMarnow, the same devices can be used to receive the nurse call alerts they need for the residents under their care.

Furthermore, Blaucomm NMS is deeply linked into Person Centred Software MCM, so call bell data is linked straight to care plans. This unlocks a huge benefit to care homes to enhance the staff performance with how they accept and respond to residents, which ultimately promotes better response times and visibility for management to audit their performance.

The best part is that Blaucomm NMS links into your existing nurse call system - we work with all major

brands such as Aidcall, ARM, Courtney Thorne, C-TEC, ENS, Intercall, Medicare, SAS and TeleAlarm.

Care operators are constantly recognising Blaucomm NMS for its reliability and dependability to their care operations, which is why we’ve been chosen time and time again over other solutions.

Head of IT Trudi Harrow at WCS Care had this to say about Blaucomm NMS:

“We find Blaucomm is a genuinely fantastic company with a reliable product. "We would highly recommend this to anybody who wants to replace expensive pagers and silence those annoyingly loud nurse call screens!”

To find out more about Blaucomm NMS, visit

www.blaucomm.co.uk/healthcare

See the advert page 5 for more details.

Crash Mats Designed to Reduce Injuries from Bed Falls

Medpage Limited has collaborated with a leading UK manufacturer of crash mats to deliver a cost-effective tool for falls management strategies. The inclusion of the new TumbleCare full-length pressure mat sensor ensures that should a patient tumble out of bed, an alarm signal is generated to alert care staff to the incident, resulting in a recordable improvement to patient safety and service.

Crash mats act as a protective barrier, absorbing the impact of a fall and reducing the risk of serious injuries when a person tumbles out of bed. Beneficial for individuals who are at high risk of falling, such as older adults, patients recovering from surgery, or those with neurological conditions such as epilepsy.

Falls can pose significant risks, especially in healthcare settings and senior care facilities. Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries due to falls from beds and other furniture. To prevent these accidents and ensure the safety of patients and residents, it is essential to implement effective falls and safety management strategies.

Further details can be obtained by telephoning 01536 264 869 or emailing sales@easylinkuk.co.uk

See the advert on page 2 for details.

First Ever Cyber Game for Social Care

Cyber security is an increasing concern in social care, with data breaches, phishing scams, and cyber attacks putting sensitive information and essential services at risk. However, learning about cyber security can often feel overwhelming, full of jargon, and difficult to apply to everyday situations. That’s where the Digital Care Hub’s new Cyber Game comes in—an engaging, interactive way for adult social care providers to learn vital cyber security skills.

THE POWER OF GAMIFICATION IN SOCIAL CARE

Learning doesn’t have to be dull. In social care, where training is essential but time is scarce, gamification—using game-like elements such as quizzes, rewards, and interactive challenges—makes learning more engaging and memorable. It provides a safe space to learn and make mistakes, increasing engagement, motivation, and knowledge retention. Gamification also allows for instant feedback and supports long-term behaviour change, making it an effective tool for cyber security training.

THE FIRST-EVER CYBER GAME FOR SOCIAL CARE

The Digital Care Hub has launched the first-ever Cyber Game designed specifically for adult social care providers. It offers a fun and practical way to learn about cyber security and data protection, helping care managers, care workers, and other staff members develop the skills they need to keep their organisation safe.

The Cyber Game takes players through real-world scenarios relevant

to social care settings, making it easier to recognise and respond to cyber risks in a safe environment. Whether it’s identifying a phishing email, ensuring secure data sharing, or responding to a cyber incident, players gain hands-on experience that translates directly to their work environment.

One of the biggest challenges in cyber security training is making it relatable. The Cyber Game brings cyber risks to life through realistic characters and workplace situations. Players can take on the role of a registered manager, a data protection lead, or a care worker, each facing different cyber threats.

Each scenario is based on real cyber incidents that have affected

social care providers. The goal is to manage the crisis effectively—containing the damage, notifying the right people, and implementing steps to prevent future incidents. Decisions impact security, time, and cost, requiring players to balance risk and consequences.

WHY GAMIFY CYBER SECURITY TRAINING?

Daniel O’Shaughnessy, from the Digital Care Hub, explains:

“We created the Cyber Game to make cyber security training more accessible and engaging. Gamification encourages active participation and helps staff retain information better, making learning feel rewarding and practical.”

WHAT CARE STAFF SAY

Care staff who tested the game found the scenarios helpful and realistic:

“These are good scenarios – typical and indicative of what may occur and give people an idea of what they need to be thinking about.”

Through interactive decision-making, players experience the consequences of their choices, reinforcing key lessons in a way that traditional training cannot.

TRY THE CYBER GAME TODAY!

The Cyber Game is available online, completely free to play. It’s a great way for care providers to improve their cyber security awareness in an engaging and practical way.

Play the game online at: www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/cyber-game

Policies and Procedures Within Social Care

The delivery of safe care is the paramount responsibility of social care providers. Central to achieving this is the governance framework adopted by service providers. And at the core of this framework are policies and procedures. These enable the provider to comply – and evidence compliance –with relevant legislation and regulations, as well as facilitating best practices, supporting business needs, and assisting in recognising and managing risks.

Providers have a legal duty of care to the people they employ. Policies and procedures should provide clear guidelines to staff on how the organisation operates, as well as informing them of best practices and processes to be followed.

Policies should be reviewed annually as a minimum to ensure they are still fit for purpose and align with legal and regulatory requirements. They should be reviewed not only by

employees of the business, but also by experts in various subject matters (e.g., infection control or medicines management).

For many small- to medium-sized providers, there may not be the in-house skills, knowledge, and experience to complete such a robust annual review. Many choose instead to purchase their policies and procedures from a reputable provider like W&P Compliance & Training, who will also complete reviews and ensure their policies and procedures remain up to date. This way a provider not only ensures they remain compliant; they also benefit from best practice policies and procedures that provide a solid foundation for safe working practices and – ultimately – protect and support service users and staff. Ben Erskine – Director at W&P Compliance & Training www.wandptraining.co.uk | Tel: 01305 767104 See the advert on page 2 for further information.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Transforming Care Home Training: Rethinking Restrictive Practice Education

Training care home staff is vital for delivering high-quality care, especially when managing complex resident needs such as dementia, frailty, and mental health challenges. However, traditional methods often fall short in engaging staff, leaving critical gaps in understanding and preparedness. Innovative approaches, such as game-based learning and peer-to-peer collaboration, are revolutionising training, particularly in addressing the ethical and legal challenges of restrictive practices.

Restrictive practices—measures that limit an individual’s freedom—are sometimes necessary to ensure safety. However, they must be applied with great care, adhering to legal frameworks and ethical guidelines to protect residents’ dignity. A groundbreaking digital training resource, co-designed by Queen’s University Belfast and Focus Games, exemplifies this innovation. The resource uses interactive, expert-driven content to help staff navigate restrictive practices responsibly and effectively.

Game-based learning plays a central role, transforming topics like restrictive practices into engaging,

real-world scenarios. Simulations allow staff to explore ethical dilemmas, practice decision-making, and test alternative solutions in a safe, low-pressure environment. This approach enhances critical thinking, teamwork, and retention of essential knowledge.

Peer-to-peer learning further strengthens the training by encouraging staff to share experiences and insights, fostering collaboration and practical problem-solving. This creates a dynamic learning environment where staff feel supported and empowered to deliver compassionate care.

By integrating these modern approaches, care homes can elevate training into a meaningful experience, equipping staff to balance safety with residents’ autonomy and dignity. At Focus Games, we are proud to offer tools designed to empower care home teams through innovative training. Visit www.FocusGames.com or email info@focusgames.com to learn more about our Restrictive Practice resource and how it can enhance care home outcomes for residents and staff alike. For further information see the advert on the front of this issue

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Improving Care Through Technology and Feedback

By Chris Sparling, Senior Director,

In the care industry, reputation is everything. Choosing a care facility or in-home provider is a deeply personal decision based on location, budget and individual needs. It’s also based on trust. Families rely on providers to deliver quality care, so a strong reputation is essential. In the UK, adult care homes are rated by official bodies like the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and by residents and their families. However, as the CQC undergoes reform, personal feedback and reviews have become critical in offering an unfiltered view of the resident experience.

Selecting a care facility or in-home provider is a deeply personal decision based on trust, location, budget, and individual needs. Families rely on providers to deliver quality care, so a strong reputation is essential.

EMERGING TRENDS IN THE CARE INDUSTRY

The growing reliance on authentic reviews offers facilities an opportunity to set themselves apart and offer the insights prospective patients seek. Yet, a recent research report reveals that in-home care providers average just nine reviews annually, with the top 20% receiving fourteen reviews. This indicates a gap in review engagement that providers can turn into an opportunity.

The difference between a trusted care facility and a questionable

one often comes down to how effectively a provider manages its reputation. Managing various listings and online reviews can weigh heavy on a facility with stretched resources.

ENCOURAGING AUTHENTIC REVIEWS

The true measure of reputation comes from the experiences shared by current and former residents and their families. Proactively soliciting feedback is powerful - 22% of the public report they leave reviews when asked. A steady flow of fresh feedback prevents outdated sentiment from impacting perception. In a market with such high demand for care home places, this could have serious consequences.

Reviews need to be managed and cultivated as part of continuous improvement within customer service, as they’re one of the primary indicators of quality.

BUILDING TRUST WITHIN THE COMMUNITY

It is important that reviews are managed transparently, so providers can build trust with their current and future patients. The same report found that top-performing care providers respond to over 80% of reviews, while the industry average lags at 68%. However, these numbers drop significantly for negative reviews, which is a missed opportunity.

Acknowledging both positive and negative feedback is crucial for building credibility. Doing this will reassure prospects that a facility is open to listening and proactively addressing concerns. Filtering reviews to exclude the negative ones presents an unrealistic image and will deter prospects evaluating whether a facility is the right one for them.

PROMOTING RESIDENT AND FAMILY SATISFACTION

Responding to online feedback is an extension of customer service quality, and many prospective patients seek this level of engagement. By providing thoughtful and timely responses, care providers can

at

increase customer satisfaction and strengthen their overall reputation.

Facilities that listen to residents and their families, and take proactive steps see improved satisfaction and stronger relationships with those they serve. Addressing negative reviews can even turn challenges into positive outcomes.

TECHNOLOGY AS A TOOL FOR CUSTOMER MANAGEMENT

Industry leading providers are already leveraging technology to maximise the impact of online reviews. Many automate review responses, ensuring that every reviewer feels respected and appreciated. This approach also eases the pressure on internal resources by streamlining the feedback response process.

Moreover, facilities can use data from reviews to identify strengths and weaknesses, addressing areas of concern proactively. For those with smaller budgets, data-backed insights help allocate funds effectively, so that the focus remains on what matters most to residents and families. Whether that’s staff excellence or a provider’s welcoming environment, marketers should highlight these strengths in their promotional materials, and use customer feedback as a way to validate them.

Care providers should embody their commitment to people-centred service in their online interactions, regardless of whether feedback is positive or negative. Reputation management is a crucial part of this commitment, as it ensures that patients feel valued and heard, while offering sought-after insights to those trying to make big decisions.

With the right tools and strategies in place, care providers can harness the power of online reviews to build trust, improve satisfaction, and build a lasting reputation that resonates with both current and future residents.

Often Overlooked: SOC Systems in the Nonprofit and Charity Sector – Enhancing Cybersecurity

In an age where data breaches and cyberattacks are increasingly common, cybersecurity is a critical priority for all organisations, including nonprofits and charities. Protecting sensitive data—such as donor records and beneficiary details—is a round-the-clock responsibility that demands both organisation and vigilance. This is where Security Operations Centre (SOC) systems come into play, offering a powerful way to strengthen your defences, even on a tight budget. WHAT IS A SOC SYSTEM?

A Security Operations Centre (SOC) is a centralised framework—often a combination of software, tools, and processes—designed to monitor, protect, and manage an organisation’s information systems and networks against cyber threats. Whether through in-house teams or external ser-

vices, a SOC uses advanced technologies to detect, analyse, respond to, and prevent cybersecurity incidents in real-time. Why Are SOC Systems Important?

The consequences of a successful cyberattack can be catastrophic, from financial losses to reputational damage, and the risks are growing each year. Cybersecurity is no longer a one-off task but a complex, ongoing effort requiring expertise, proactive monitoring, and rapid response capabilities. For nonprofits and charities, where budgets are often stretched thin, a SOC system offers an efficient solution. It provides 24/7 network monitoring, identifies vulnerabilities before they’re exploited, and helps mitigate threats swiftly, reducing the likelihood of a breach.

BENEFITS OF SOC SYSTEMS FOR NONPROFITS AND CHARITIES

1. Proactive Threat Detection and Response: Equipped with sophisticated tools, SOCs can spot potential risks early and respond immediately, minimising damage.

2. Compliance Support: By monitoring data protection practices, SOC systems help charities meet standards like GDPR or CQC requirements, avoiding costly penalties.

3. Unified Security Management: Many SOC solutions integrate with popular antivirus and network security tools, letting you oversee everything from a single platform.

4. Scalable for All Sizes: Whether your organisation is large or small, SOC systems can adapt to your needs.

SES SOC FREE SYSTEM OFFER

SES Computers, with over 20 years of success in the healthcare sector, believes it’s time to give back. We’re excited to announce a unique opportunity for UK charities and nonprofits: free access to our Security Operations Centre (SOC) services.

No

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

How to Use AI to Improve Quality and Reduce Costs in the Care Sector

By Philip Douglas, founder and CEO of Compleat Software

As the CEO of Compleat Software, I have worked closely with care providers and understand the challenges they face, as well as the growing demand for AIdriven solutions reshaping the sector. With rising costs, workforce shortages, and increasing demand for quality care, AI has moved beyond being a trend; it is now essential for sustainability and efficiency.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR AI ADOPTION IN HEALTHCARE

Recognising this urgency, the UK government has launched initiatives to accelerate AI adoption in healthcare and care homes. The recently announced AI Opportunities Action Plan aims to integrate AI across public services, including the NHS, modernising patient care and streamlining operations. Investments in AI-driven diagnostics, workforce planning, and predictive analytics are already helping to improve health outcomes while reducing pressure on frontline staff.

However, care providers also face financial pressures due to policy changes, such as the National Insurance rise, which significantly impacts workforce costs and operational budgets. The increased employer contributions make it more expensive to recruit and retain staff, worsening an already strained sector. While AI can help mitigate some of these cost pressures through automation and efficiency gains, the sector needs more strategic financial support from the government to ensure AI adoption remains viable.

THE IMPACT OF THE NATIONAL INSURANCE RISE ON THE UK CARE SECTOR

The recent National Insurance rise has placed additional financial strain on the care sector, which is already grappling with underfunding and workforce shortages. Care providers must now contribute more to employer National Insurance payments, increasing staffing costs at a time when recruitment and retention are critical challenges. This policy change directly affects operational budgets, forcing care homes and domiciliary care services to reallocate resources from patient care to cover additional tax burdens.

AI-driven automation offers a potential solution by reducing administrative workloads and optimising workforce planning. AI-powered HR management tools can help forecast staffing needs and prevent over-reliance on expensive agency workers. Similarly, AI-driven procurement and financial management systems can identify cost-saving opportunities, making it easier for care providers to navigate these financial pressures while maintaining service quality.

AI TRANSFORMING CARE OPERATIONS

Care organisations have long struggled with manual processes that consume valuable time and resources. Whether managing procurement, staffing, or patient care, outdated systems often lead to inefficiencies and high costs. AI is now enabling care professionals to focus on what matters

most, delivering high-quality care. By automating routine tasks, AI improves efficiency, allowing staff to dedicate more time to patient wellbeing rather than administrative burdens.

NHS England Abolition – What This Means for Healthcare Procurement

Keir Starmer’s proposed abolition of NHS England signals a major shift in the structure of healthcare delivery and procurement. While details remain under discussion, the potential restructuring could have significant implications for how care providers source medical supplies, manage contracts, and integrate AI-driven solutions into their operations. A decentralised approach to procurement could offer more flexibility but may also lead to inconsistencies in funding and support for AI adoption across different regions.

For care providers, this change underscores the importance of AI-driven procurement systems that can quickly adapt to evolving regulations and supply chain challenges. AI-powered platforms can streamline vendor management, track spending trends, and ensure compliance with new procurement policies, helping care organisations navigate this transition more effectively.

AI FOR WORKFORCE PLANNING AND HR MANAGEMENT

Staff shortages and high turnover rates have long been challenges in healthcare. AI-powered predictive analytics are now assisting HR teams in anticipating workforce needs, reducing staff turnover, and improving job satisfaction. AI-driven tools also streamline shift planning, ensuring optimal staffing levels and reducing the strain on care professionals. Virtual assistants are further relieving administrative burdens by handling routine HR inquiries, allowing staff to focus on more meaningful work.

ENHANCING PATIENT CARE THROUGH AI

Beyond finance, AI is transforming patient care. Electronic health records (EHRs) powered by AI can detect health risks early and recommend proactive interventions. By analysing patient data in real time, healthcare professionals can make faster, more informed decisions, reducing hospital readmissions and improving patient outcomes. AI-driven care management tools allow care facilities to maintain high service levels while optimising costs.

AI-POWERED VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS AND PATIENT ENGAGEMENT

AI-powered virtual assistants are also improving patient engagement. These tools help with medication reminders, appointment scheduling, and answering health-related queries, providing round-the-clock support. By handling these routine interactions, AI reduces the strain on caregivers, enabling them to focus on more complex patient needs. The result is a

more efficient system where patients receive timely assistance while care professionals are freed from repetitive administrative tasks.

PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS IN PREVENTATIVE CARE

One of the most exciting AI applications in healthcare is predictive analytics for preventative care. AI can analyse vast amounts of patient data to identify individuals at risk of developing serious health conditions. Early intervention helps reduce hospitalisation rates and improves long-term health outcomes. Some care facilities have already prevented emergency hospital visits by detecting subtle behavioural changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. This proactive approach not only saves lives but also alleviates financial pressure on healthcare providers.

AI FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING AND REMOTE MONITORING

The UK government is also investing in AI-driven technology to support independent living. AI-powered sensors can monitor daily activities in care homes, identifying unusual patterns and alerting caregivers when needed. This technology helps vulnerable individuals live independently for longer while reducing the burden on residential care services.

AI has also revolutionised remote monitoring and telemedicine. Wearable health devices now use AI to track patient vitals in real time, allowing healthcare professionals to identify potential health concerns before they escalate. This proactive approach is particularly valuable for elderly patients and those with chronic conditions, reducing hospital visits and improving overall patient wellbeing.

THE FUTURE OF AI IN THE CARE SECTOR

The future of AI in healthcare is vast, with continuous advancements reshaping the sector. From robotic caregivers assisting with daily tasks to AI-driven mental health support systems, innovation is driving a smarter, more efficient, and compassionate care model. Organisations that embrace AI today will be at the forefront of this transformation, positioning themselves as leaders in the evolving care landscape.

WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO ACT

For care providers considering AI adoption, now is the time to act. AI’s ability to optimise processes and elevate care quality is already evident, and as technology advances, it will become an integral part of delivering high-quality care in an increasingly demanding world.

By leveraging AI, we are not just reducing costs; we are enabling a future where care professionals can focus on what truly matters: improving the lives of those they serve. The care sector is evolving rapidly, and AI is at the heart of this transformation. Those who embrace it now will shape the future of healthcare for generations to come.

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Digital Transformation in Social Care: Enhancing Services for a Sustainable Future

The social care sector is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by increasing demand, tightened budgets, and the need to deliver exceptional care outcomes. At the heart of this shift lies digital transformation—a holistic approach to overhauling care operations, processes, and culture through the integration of modern technologies.

Far from simply replacing manual tasks, digital transformation reimagines how organisations operate. Tools like Digital Social Care Records (DSCRs) represent just the beginning. By adopting interoperable systems and cloud-based solutions, care providers can achieve seamless coordination across departments, optimise resource allocation, and ensure high-quality care. Processes such as care planning, rostering, compliance reporting, and data management become more efficient, freeing up teams to focus on providing person-centred care.

Digital solutions also offer significant benefits. Faster service delivery reduced administrative burdens, and more informed decision-making results in better care experiences for service users and care providers alike. For instance, interoperability enables real-time data sharing across platforms, reducing errors while providing a unified view of the organisation’s operations. This empowers leadership to make critical decisions backed by accurate, holistic insights. Additionally, tools like single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication bolster security, ensuring confidential data remains protected while reducing day-to-day inefficiencies for users.

Pass by everyLIFE

PASS supports over 1,000 care providers every day, giving them access to market leading care management tools hand in hand with unlimited 24/7/365 support from our dedicated and friendly PASS team.

Assured by NHS Transformation Directorate, PASS provides a secure platform that allows you to plan, record and evidence the care you deliver. The only assured solution built specifically for the home care sector, it provides comprehensive real-time functionality and allows you to share progress against outcomes with customisable, exportable reports.

CARE PLANNING AND ROSTERING FROM A SINGLE PLATFORM

For social care providers, the move toward digitalisation represents an investment in long-term sustainability. Enhanced efficiency helps reduce operational costs, allowing resources to be reinvested in vital areas such as workforce development or service user engagement. Standardised digital frameworks also simplify the complexities of acquiring new services or locations, ensuring continuity of care during periods of growth. Choosing a digital partner who understands the complexities of care is essential to navigating this transformation successfully and tailoring solutions to the unique needs of the sector.

However, the path to digital transformation requires a clear roadmap. Providers must assess their needs, define a vision, and secure stakeholder buy-in. Selecting the right software and delivering effective training is equally critical to ensuring a smooth transition. Continuous monitoring and adjustment allow providers to refine their approach, fostering a culture of improvement and resilience.

By adopting integrated intuitive software solutions, social care providers can not only stay ahead of industry challenges but also lead the way in delivering exceptional, sustainable services. Digital transformation may not solve every challenge, but its potential to enhance care quality, operational efficiency, and financial health is undeniable.

Download our guide to digital transformation with the QR code.

To meet the wider needs of the PASS community All-in-one PASS has recently been launched , bringing advanced rostering functionality to our established digital care planning platform. As a result advanced staff scheduling, payroll and invoicing functionality is now seamlessly linked with care planning and reporting, reducing the technical complexity, risk and overhead associated with integrating two separate systems.

As a result, PASS now provides an all-in-one suite of digital care management tools, available from a single platform, designed to:

Save you time

Increase the efficiency of your teams

• Improve the quality of care

Deliver better outcomes

INTEGRATED HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE

Our commitment to the continual evolution of PASS is further illustrated by the addition of GP Connect. The first product of its type to offer this feature, PASS is still one of only a handful of digital care

management solutions to have completed this NHS Digital integration, and is the only one offering it to the home care market.

PASS GP Connect provides authorised social care staff with realtime access to their client’s GP records. It makes medical information available when and where it is needed, leading to improvements in both care safety and outcomes:

Visibility of allergies, vaccinations and medications, especially useful for clients unable to reliably share their personal information

Using medical information to inform care planning

Ensuring that the right medication is delivered to the right person in the timeliest manner. In one case, this allowed the administration of antibiotics on a Friday evening, aiding the service user’s swift recovery from infection

Available to all PASS users at no additional cost, PASS GP Connect is significantly more efficient than waiting for a GP response. It’s also a positive step forward on the path to the DHSC’s goal for widespread digitally enabled care and is in full alignment with their ambition for joined up care for everyone.

Get in touch: www.everylifetechnologies.com hello@everylifetechnologies.com

Protecting Overseas Workers: The Legal and Ethical Imperative for the UK Care Sector

By Fozia Iqbal, Senior Business Immigration Solicitor at

ADDRESSING EXPLOITATION IN THE CARE SECTOR

Reports of exploitation, including unfair wages and poor working conditions, have drawn increased government attention to the treatment of overseas workers in the care sector. With a critical staff shortage, many businesses depend on international recruitment to fill vacancies, adding to concerns about worker welfare.

The Home Office has intensified its crackdown on non-compliant employers, with severe consequences for those who fail to meet legal and ethical obligations. Compliance with immigration and employment laws is no longer just an administrative requirement but an essential strategy for protecting business operations, reputations, and, most importantly, the wellbeing of workers.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES

To hire overseas care workers legally, care business owners must navigate a complex regulatory framework. They must obtain a sponsor licence issued by the Home Office, through which they can sponsor overseas health and care workers for a Skilled Worker visa, which is the primary route for recruitment, but this visa comes with strict sponsorship obligations. Employers must make sure that all hired workers have valid visas and are working in compliance with their visa restrictions and their sponsorship. Employers would need to implement correct right to work check policies and ensure they are meeting minimum salary requirements, can provide work that meets the contractual hours of work offered, and the employees are undertaking duties which fall strictly within the role for which they have been sponsored.

Additionally, all employers must ensure that their employees’ employment conditions align with legal requirements, for instance, providing safe working environments, adequate training, and following proper recruitment procedures. Fundamentally, overseas workers must receive their full rights and entitlements such as fair pay, breaks and leave, with no discrimination. Any deviation from these standards can place a business at significant risk.

THE GOVERNMENT’S CRACKDOWN ON NON-COMPLIANCE

The UK government is taking decisive action against care providers who fail to protect overseas staff. Increased inspections and audits are being carried out, with penalties ranging from significant fines to licence revocations and outright business closures. Employers found guilty of exploitation or modern slavery

offences face criminal prosecution, and businesses that lose their sponsor licences will lose their sponsored workers and be unable to hire overseas staff in the future.

In addition to heightened inspections, the Home Office is working closely with other regulatory bodies to share intelligence and data on non-compliant practices. This collaboration enhances the government’s ability to detect irregularities and enforce penalties swiftly, ensuring that any rogue employer faces immediate consequences. Such coordinated efforts not only deter potential offenders but also reassure compliant businesses that the sector is being rigorously monitored.

This increased enforcement underscores the necessity for care home owners to maintain high standards of employment practice. Failing to comply with legal obligations does not only jeopardise individual businesses but also tarnishes the reputation of the sector as a whole.

MORE THAN JUST COMPLIANCE

ETHICAL EMPLOYMENT:

Beyond legal obligations, treating overseas workers ethically is a crucial element of running a successful business. Providing fair pay, ensuring reasonable working hours, and fostering a safe and supportive environment contribute to higher job satisfaction and better staff retention. In an industry where continuity of care is essential, a stable and motivated workforce is invaluable.

Ethical employment also enhances a business’s reputation. Care businesses known for fair treatment of staff find it easier to attract both workers and clients. By proactively adopting fair employment practices, organisations safeguard their operations from legal risks and cultivate a more committed and engaged workforce.

TAKING STEPS TO SAFEGUARD YOUR BUSINESS

To protect your business and your staff, you should regularly review your employment practices. By conducting internal audits, training staff on compliance obligations, and seeking professional legal guidance, you can help ensure ongoing adherence to the law. Being proactive in compliance not only mitigates legal and financial risks but also encourages a positive workplace culture.

Looking to the future, it is vital for care providers to establish a culture of continuous improvement in compliance. Regular training sessions, clear communication of legal updates, and robust internal controls can help your business stay ahead of regulatory changes. Embracing technology to monitor recruitment and employment processes further supports transparency and accountability, ultimately benefiting both your staff and the reputation of your business.

As the government continues its strict stance on non-compliance, you should take immediate action to ensure your recruitment and employment processes align with legal and ethical standards. Now is the time to assess your business’s current practices, implement necessary improvements, and secure the future of your business by treating overseas workers with the fairness and dignity they deserve.

Dealing With A Deceased Resident’s Debt

By Katarina Morgan, Associate Solicitor

at Taylor Walton Solicitors (www.taylorwalton.co.uk)

An issue which frequently arises for care home operators is when they need to make a financial claim against the estate of a deceased resident for unpaid or outstanding fees. This can be complicated if the former resident was married but most of their assets are tied up in the marital home which their spouse still lives in. Another common situation is where there are insufficient funds left in the estate and the former resident would have qualified for Local Authority funding had they survived.

To manage these situations effectively, it is best practice to maintain good records of the contractual terms agreed, of fees due and invoices raised and what is outstanding. This helps prevent parties disputing the quantity of the bills, or where executors were unaware of what had been agreed.

It is hoped the care home operator has a good rapport with the deceased’s family so they can sensitively approach them with the outstanding invoices and ask them to be included as debts of the Estate. This helps probate practitioners and will assist with debt recovery when the Grant of probate has been obtained. Thankfully in recent months it is now a faster process following the delays which built up following the Covid pandemic. If the deceased owned a property (either under marriage or not), then there may be a right to pursue the debt against their asset. It would need to be considered if they died with a Will, whether a life interest trust was created under that Will (i.e. if people are still living in the house), and how the property was

owned and how much of it was owned by the deceased, whether there is any outstanding mortgage or equity release scheme in place. It is for this reason why good contractual terms need to be set out clearly and what happens in these circumstances.

If there are insufficient funds in the Estate, then the Estate will be insolvent. This means that the debts will be paid in a certain order:

o Secured creditors: mortgages or secured loans

o Funeral expenses: reasonable and proportionate to the size of the Estate

o Testamentary expenses: administrative costs

o Preferred and preferential debts: employee wages for example (not likely to apply)

o Unsecured creditors: care home fees, bank loans, other debts

o Interest on unsecured loans

o Deferred debts: informal loans between family members

If Local Authority funding may have been available, then the administrator of the deceased’s Estate (executor or administrator) may be able to make a retrospective claim. They will have to apply to the Integrated Care Board (ICB) which is the NHS body that assesses eligibility for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding where there is a need. That person will need to contact the ICB for guidance on how to deal with previously unassessed periods of care. It is likely that this may take a number of weeks if not months to be resolved and it would likely to be challenged given the universal squeeze on public budgets. Prevention of debts building up is always the best option, but it is not always avoidable. Ultimately having good, clear contractual terms which explain what has been agreed in terms of fees and when they can expect to be recovered and how is essential for every care home operator. Each case will of course depend on its

FINANCE AND PROFESSIONAL

Level’s On-Demand Pay Reduces Agency Spend

On-Demand Pay is now offered by almost a third of care providers in the UK. But why?

For many employees, payday isn’t just about receiving their earnings –it’s about catching up. Covering overdue bills, managing unexpected expenses, and paying off debts such as credit cards. With nearly 1 in 4 workers unable to pay an unexpected bill of just £100, financial stress is a growing challenge directly impacting businesses and their employees alike.

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Level’s On-Demand Pay is a market-leading solution. With existing integrations with many of the UK’s leading HR, rota and payroll systems, Level can offer a fully automated solution. Integrations with software like Sona, IRIS, Birdie, SAP, Humanforce and Planday make the setup and go-live process quick, simple and easy. This means you can offer staff flexibility without adding an extra administrative burden on your payroll team. For further information, visit www.levelft.com

Eden Alternative - It’s Time to Change the Way We Care

"23 years, operating 4 Devon Nursing homes, has been pretty tough, as anyone in social care, knows, only too well. And if it was hard already, after 2024 budget, it's just got harder.

Anyway, at heart, I am just customer of Eden Alternative, and it was a stroke of luck to come across this whilst on holiday in New Zealand in 2009. It started in USA in 1994 and now runs in 22 countries.

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