The Carer Digital - Issue #161

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

Once again we lead with a rather hard-hitting report, which again shines a light on recruitment and retention within the sector

In an industry where compassion and dedication are the cornerstones of quality care, the ongoing staffing and recruitment crisis is cause for serious concern The report by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) highlights the daunting challenges faced by care homes, with, the report says, low pay and insecure work emerging as significant hurdles to attracting and retaining a skilled workforce

The TUC's report paints a stark reality – an industry that remains the backbone of support for the elderly and vulnerable members of our society is teetering on the edge due to an acute shortage of dedicated caregivers A deep-rooted problem one that has been simmering beneath the surface for years, is now erupting into a fullblown crisis

At the heart of the issue lies the undeniable truth: the remuneration offered to care home staff has failed to match the significance of their role in our society

Low pay not only demotivates the existing workforce but also repels potential candidates who might otherwise be inclined to join this noble profession Caring for the elderly and infirm demands a high level of skill, compassion, and commitment, yet caregivers find themselves struggling to make ends meet

Insecure work exacerbates the problem limited job security within the care sector casts a shadow of uncertainty over the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to the service of others

The government which has come under increasing criticism not only for failing to fund the sector adequately but also failing to honour pledges, must act We all remember a pledge made in Downing Street four years ago to fix the social care crisis a pledge which has been left unfulfilled with promises of support for the sector shelved diluted or dropped a coalition of charities has said

The Care and Support Alliance (CSA) which represents more than 60 of England’s leading organisations campaigning for a properly funded care sys-

tem said people have been “on a wild goose chase” because vows of help for some of society’s most vulnerable were not followed through It really is a vicious cycle: insecure work leads to high turnover, which in turn disrupts the continuity of care that is crucial for residents' well-being!

We would draw your attention to our “Afternoon Tea Week” Special supplement on pages 18-23, which we like to think is a tribute to the inspiration, dedication and hard work from care home homes around the country who worked so hard to make this quintessentially British tradition a wonderful fun packed experience for the residents

Congratulations to Margaret Allen House in Tiverton our Afternoon Tea Week competition winner with their special Hawaii themed day! A £100 gift voucher is on its way!

And a very special thank you to you all for sending in your nomination photographs We often say it is such a shame we could only pick one winner Every nomination was worthy of a prize but unfortunately our budget cannot stretch that far!

Editor

Peter Adams

TUC Calls for Care Workforce Strategy as Recruitment Crisis Deepens

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

ISSUES IN CHILDCARE AND SOCIAL CARE

The TUC has now launched a call for a new care workforce strategy to tackle the staffing crisis facing both childcare and social care in England

Like the childcare sector the social care sector is also struggling to recruit – the latest figures show there are currently 152 000 vacancies in social care, meaning one in 10 jobs aren’t filled

The TUC says this is having a huge negative impact on children and adults receiving care and – in the case of social care – placing huge strain on the NHS

LOW PAY

Further new analysis published by the TUC reveals:

More than three in five (62%) childcare assistants and practitioners earn less than the real Living Wage (£10 90 an hour)

More than three in five (61%) social care workers and senior care workers earn less than the real Living Wage

Social care workers earn only around 65% of the median salary for all employees (£21,500 per annum compared to £33 000)

And childcare practitioners earn only 56% of the median salary for all employees (£18,400), while childcare assistants earn 58% of the median wage (£19 000)

This TUC says this leaves many care workers and their families struggling to survive More than one in four (28%) children with a parent working in social care are growing up below the poverty line

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “We will all rely on care at some point in our lives whether that s childcare for our kids or social care for ourselves or our family members

The care our loved ones get must be of the highest standard But that’s only possible if jobs in care are decent and paid well enough to attract and keep the right people

“Childcare and social care must stop being Cinderella sectors

Demand for care is rising Caring is skilled work and the overwhelmingly female workforce deserves decent pay and conditions

“Ministers must urgently introduce a £15 an hour minimum wage for childcare and social care workers

“They also need to bring in sector collective bargaining and establish new sector partnership arrangements to up skill care workers and stop the race to the bottom on pay and conditions And ministers should require employers to end the use of zero-hours contracts and pay decent sick pay to all workers ”

GOVERNMENT ACTION NEEDED

To deliver a genuine world-class cradle to grave care system in England, the new TUC strategy calls for a range of measures including ensuring Worker voices are heard and valued through sectoral collective bargaining to agree pay and working conditions and National Partnership Forums in social care and childcare

Decent pay and conditions for all care workers including a minimum wage of £15 per hour, sick pay, secure contracts and full payment for all time worked • Skills training and progression pathways There should be nationally negotiated training frameworks to ensure consistency and quality that make sure staff are fairly renumerated and can progress This national framework should make sure training is accredited and qualifications are recognised and transferrable to new employers Health safety and wellbeing including ensuring that staffing levels

are based on care and education needs and not arbitrary ratios And a zero-tolerance approach to workplace abuse with comprehensive safeguarding and support notably for staff who may be at risk of experiencing abuse and harassment including Black and migrant workers

UNISON General Secretary Christina McAnea said: “Acute underfunding and extreme government neglect have led to a race to the bottom in the care sector

“With pay rates hovering near the legal minimum care workers often don t stick around long before quitting for more lucrative less stressful work

Raising pay improving training and providing a proper career path are essential to end the recruitment crisis, and make sure people get the care they need and deserve

VICIOUS CYCLE

Cathie Williams, joint chief executive of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services said: Good quality social care is important to everyone We are all one life event away from needing care ourselves And the only way to solve the staffing crisis in adult social care is better pay and conditions that values and properly rewards the incredible work that care workers do

“That will mean more of us will get care and support at the right time and break the vicious cycle of people ending up in crisis and needing hospital treatment for want of the right support

To make it happen it will take long term commitment and funding from the government And we need a national workforce plan to ensure that we have the care workers in place in every community in years to come to help those of us who are older and disabled and those of us who are caring to live good lives ”

Unlocking the Benefits of Volunteering for Older People

By Shirley Hall, Head of Care and Wellbeing, Retirement Villages Group (RVG)

In June the Government announced the expansion of the NHS Volunteer Responders Programme to include social care This means care providers can now ask volunteers to help people in their local areas across a range of care settings Volunteers can provide support to people receiving care from local services in the community through chat services and delivery roles While volunteers can’t help healthcare assistants and nurses with the delivery of care there is no doubt they reap the benefits of their support and gives them more time to focus on patients This, in turn, leads to improved physical health reducing the need for medical intervention, which eases workload pressure on care staff

You can start volunteering at any age and in fact with more freedom and time retirement can be an incredible opportunity to give back We ve seen that volunteering can bring immense benefits, not just to individuals but to society as a whole Research from Retirement Villages Group (RVG) has found that volunteering by over 65s contributes a staggering £48bn to the economy every year – the equivalent of 2% of UK GDP! In fact close to one million retired people over 65 are acting as informal carers to loved ones, whether that s looking after the grandchildren or caring for relatives and this equates to an economic value of £15 3bn

CONNECTION MATTERS

The National Innovation Centre for Ageing has found that over 65s specifically are motivated to volunteer due to the social interaction it brings It also provides them with a sense of purpose once they leave the working world and allows them to recognise the importance of engaging actively in society for the benefit of their physical mental and emotional wellbeing

At RVG we recognise the contribution over 65s can make in society and have recently launched a new

volunteering programme designed to enhance life within our communities and create a stronger sense of togetherness The new initiative will see residents volunteering on projects across all our communities, offering purpose and fulfilment and allowing them to make a positive difference From participating in resident representative groups, supporting the community reception or shop, or organising activities, events and classes we want this initiative to become a cornerstone of our commitment to support residents in leading fulfilling lives and embracing retirement

The initiative kicked off at our Elmbridge Village which has seen volunteers come together to create a sensory garden a self-sustaining garden that will support those with sensory impairments and build a playground which can be used by our residents grand or great grandchildren These projects were driven by residents allowing them to feel connected and fulfilled by a rewarding project and saw them enjoy the benefits of working together out in nature

CREATING THE RIGHT ENVIRONMENT

The volunteering programme is part of our wider health and wellbeing strategy where we re building on our supportive communities to create more choice and opportunity and align with how our residents perceive wellbeing The strategy revolves around promoting enabling environments stress-free living resilience, and a sense of purpose As part of this, it acknowledges that wellbeing goes way beyond just the physical and that social interaction and feeling like part of a community can also be key This is why volunteering has become a key pillar of RVG as it allows our residents to build relationships and be active members of their communities while also letting them be part of an environment which allows them to pursue their passions develop skills and build their confidence

As integrated retirement living operators it s vital we provide the right environment that gives residents the opportunity to give back and make a positive difference By allowing our residents to contribute to RVG s wellbeing strategy through resident representative groups and offering activities or classes it means they get to create the life they want in retirement and meet likeminded people as well

In summary, over 65s that volunteer are fundamental to society as our research has evidenced, therefore it’s important to provide them with the right opportunities in a way that makes it easy for them By launching our volunteering initiative, it creates an environment residents know they can go to and find ways to develop skills and create new connections whilst offering them purpose and improving their own community

Reigate & Banstead Mayoral Visit To Reigate Beaumont

Eddy Humphreys Mayor and Mrs Sarah Humphreys Mayoress have visited Barchester s Reigate Beaumont Care Home in Reigate to celebrate the Around The World themed event with residents relatives and staff

The Mayor & Mayoress joined residents of the home for an afternoon of celebrating the staff nationalities on Friday 25th August Celebrations included entertainment provided by staff who wore their traditional clothing and performed their traditional dances An assortment of various dishes were available for everyone to taste

General Manager at Reigate Beaumont Care Home Pramojil Kurian said It was lovely to have the Mayor & Mayoress here for the afternoon The residents were delighted that they was able to visit us on their first official visit We all had a wonderful time and we hope that the Mayor & Mayoress will come to see us again soon!

Reigate Beaumont care home is run by Barchester Healthcare one of the UK s largest care providers which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals

Community Boost As High Wycombe

Care Home Buys Life-Saving Defibrillator

A new defibrillator is available to the High Wycombe community after being fitted at Royal Star & Garter

The life-saving electric shock device has been placed at the front of the Home in Hughenden Avenue after being purchased by the charity

It led the local Ambulance Service to praise the Home for providing a life-saving publicly accessible defibrillator in the area

The machine costs £1,320 and is registered with emergency services, meaning nearby members of the public making emergency 999 calls for a cardiac arrest will be directed to it

The Lifepak CR2 USB machine is designed to be used by someone with no medical training with an in-built speaker giving simple step-by-step instructions to operate Additionally every member of staff at Royal Star & Garter in High Wycombe has had training on how to use the device

It also comes with a separate emergency kit, which includes items such as scissors gloves and CPR face shield

Home is now alerting the local community to the defibrillator Royal

invaluable purchase for the Home and our community We want people to know we have it so that if it’s ever needed they can come here and use the defibrillator ”

David Hamer Operations Manager (Thames Valley) for Community Engagement and Training at South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) NHS Foundation Trust said: I m delighted that another life-saving publicly accessible defibrillator is available in our region thanks to the High Wycombe Home run by Royal Star & Garter

Illustrating the importance of defibrillators he continued: “Last year we began treatment on over 2 600 patients in our region who had suffered a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital or healthcare environment Thanks to the efforts of bystanders commencing CPR before our arrival using publicly accessible defibrillators if locally available and the amazing skills of our ambulance teams and hospital colleagues, 225 of those patients survived to leave hospital The cardiac arrest survival rate in the SCAS region is higher than the English national average but we always want to do more

more

available to the public really will help

Cllr

'Lessons Must Be Learned' From Covid

CARE providers say the Government has to learn some very tough lessons from the impact the Covid-19 pandemic had on the social care sector and take action to prevent similar devastation in the future

The Independent Care Group (ICG) was commenting after news that 30 families are starting legal action over the loss of their relatives in the pandemic

ICG Chair Mike Padgham said

We have every sympathy for those who lost loved ones due to Covid and feel their anguish

“The pandemic was horrific and tragic for care providers – a living nightmare We felt every loss personally and painfully wherever it occurred – in care and nursing homes, in supported living and amongst those being cared for at home

“Care providers did everything – many going beyond Government guidelines and putting their own health and safety and that of their staff on the line – to keep vulnerable people as safe as they possibly could

Far from giving social care a protective ring at the outset Government advice was that care homes for

example should continue as normal The Government was then slow to make social care settings a priority in terms of testing for covid and the provision of PPE It was more concerned with discharging people out of hospital quickly including many who it transpired had covid with devastating effect

“The care sector was on its knees after many years of underfunding and was ill prepared for any sort of pandemic and certainly not something as horrific as covid ”

He said the question of legal action came down to individual cases but added: “It is vital that lessons are learned – that how we deal with pandemics where the vulnerable are being cared for has a higher priority We were far too low on the list in 2020

“Are we prepared for any future pandemic that might come along?”

Above all social care must get the funding and reform it has been crying out for now for more than 30 years We must never again be in such a vulnerable and weak position when challenges of any kind – including a pandemic – arrive on our doorstep

The ICG is urging the Government to reform and strengthen social care It wants to know how politicians plan to get care to the 1 6m people who currently can t get it; tackle the 152 000 vacancies in the sector;

Dementia Specialist Treats Residents To Retail Therapy

NOTTINGHAM dementia care home specialist

Church Farm Care, has opened its own shop at its Skylarks home in West Bridgford to encourage independence in its family members

The shop named Open All Hours is run by staff and family members and offers a range of items including clothing jewellery and knick knacks which other family members can peruse and pretend to buy

The new shop encourages family members to keep active and helps to create a daily routine –known to be beneficial to those with dementia The shop is filled with donations from staff family members and the local community

The inspiration for the shop comes from the innovative Danish Dementia Village, known as The Hogeweyk where residents are also encouraged to be independent by visiting the site’s own shops, salons and clubs Church Farm Care has taken inspiration from its Dutch counterpart in the past through its creation of small household living to create com-

munities within its homes its approach to building and interior design specifically supports those living with dementia

Lucy Atkinson director at Church Farm Care said Our staff at Skylarks had the lovely idea to open the shop and have made such a big effort to get it up and running Whether our family members are manning the tills or filling up their shopping baskets, they love to come and visit Open All Hours which is great to see

Encouraging our family members to complete everyday activities such as cleaning and preparing food for the kitchen helps them to know that they have made a contribution and it reinforces the feeling of home and community It can also bring forth past memories of trips with loved ones On top of this Open All Hours allows them to participate in shopping activities which encourages independence and makes them feel valued ”

Unlocking the Potential of a Caring Workforce Plan and Digital Staff Passports in the UK's Care Sector

The National Health Service (NHS) Workforce Plan has been a topic of cussion in recent months with a pressing need to address staffing shortages and inefficiencies However to assist in the improvement of the healthcare service it is crucial to expand the focus beyond the NHS alone In this article, Mark Inskip, CEO of Matrix- one of the largest providers of care workers in the UK - delves into the importance of reimagining the plan as the Caring Workforce Plan encompassing a broader scope of care providers and introducing Digital Staff Passports as a key solution By unblocking the system and enabling seamless staff mobility Inskip believes that creating a more cohesive and efficient care ecosystem could be the answer

I believe that unblocking the system and fostering collaboration ween the NHS, local authorities, communities, and social care providers could be the answer to this ongoing staff shortage problem within the NHS While addressing the understaffing issue within the NHS is vital we must also focus on relieving roadblocks that hinder the flow of patients and staff between different care settings By working together these organisations could create an interconnected care system that ensures

continuity and efficient utilisation of resources

By Mark Inskip, CEO, Matrix (https://teammatrix com)

To unblock the NHS it is imperative to eliminate the friction that currently exists when staff attempt to move across authorities The introduction of Digital Staff Passports can play a pivotal role in enabling staff mobility without cumbersome and time-consuming employment checks The existing structure of the NHS often restricts the transferability of skills leading to inefficiencies and staffing gaps For instance neighbouring trusts may have a surplus of certain healthcare professionals while others are in high demand However the current process requires individuals to go through redundant checks and training when moving between trusts By implementing a digital staff passport system these barriers can be dismantled allowing staff to move more freely and unlocking the full potential of our healthcare workforce

As we strive to address the challenges faced by the NHS workforce it is crucial to adopt a holistic and inclusive approach Expanding the Workforce Plan to become the Caring Workforce Plan acknowledges the interconnectedness of various care providers and emphasises collaboration between the NHS local authorities, and social care providers Moreover, the introduction of Digital Staff Passports would represent a transformative solution that empowers staff mobility and unlocks the capacity within the system Together, these measures will not only enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery but also pave the way for a more seamless and integrated approach to care provision By embracing this paradigm shift we can build a stronger and more resilient healthcare system for the benefit of all

Joyce Receives Hundreds of Cards for 100th Birthday

OVER 475 birthday cards were received by a Huddersfield centenarian after an appeal by her care home

Great grandmother Joyce Wilkinson received the deluge of well wishes for her 100th birthday after an appeal issued by staff at Aden View Care Home on Perseverance Street, Primrose Hill

Cards poured in from all over the world including from Buckingham Palace when King Charles and Queen Camilla sent their well wishes Others arrived from America Canada Australia and Germany as well as throughout the UK

She also received a donated birthday cake cupcakes, and a generous benefactor from Canada, who didn t want to be named got in touch to pay for Joyce and a friend to go out for afternoon tea

The care home was decorated with the cards banners and balloons for Joyce s birthday party when over 50 friends fellow residents staff and family attended

Entertainer Bill Wright sang Joyce s favourite songs and everyone enjoyed a buffet lunch, with Joyce centre stage throughout in her favourite outfit and feather fascinator

She said It has been a lovely day Thank you everyone for making it so special Joyce was born in Slaithwaite on 19th August 1923 and has lived her entire life in Kirklees growing up in Crosland Moor and attending Hopkinson s Primary School with her brother Cyril

She later worked as a mender at Mallinson Mill which produced woollen and worsted cloth before marrying husband of 59 years, Harry, who has since passed away

The couple had one son Michael who has also passed and now have two grandchildren James and Rebecca and three great grandchildren, Max Finley and Billy

Joyce moved to Aden View Care Home in July 2018 where she enjoys taking part in activities including arts and crafts singing and chair-based exercises

The home s activities coordinator, Hayley Toyne, was the staff member who originally posted the birthday card appeal on Facebook and organised the party

She said: Joyce is such a special lady and we wanted to make her birthday as special as possible She doesn t have much family in the area so I put a shout out on Facebook to get as many birthday cards as we could

We were all absolutely gobsmacked with the response receiving over 475 cards from all over the world The generosity of everyone has been amazing Joyce has also received cakes and even an afternoon tea as a gift

“We’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone who sent Joyce their best wishes She had an amazing day in part thanks to everyone who took the time to send her a card as well as those who came along to her party on the day ”

Kimberley Mckay home manager at Aden View Care Home added: “I wanted to add my thanks to those who sent cards to Joyce It was very exciting to check the post each morning and see just how many more cards had come

GOJO Recognised As A Key Partner To The NHS

GOJO THE INVENTOR OF PURELL™ is proud to be a brand showcased in an official publication commemorating the NHS, entitled ‘NHS 75: Celebrating 75 Years of the National Health Service This accolade demonstrates the key role played by the skin and hygiene specialist, who has now been a partner to the organisation for over 30 years

Widely used in the NHS PURELL® is a trusted brand in healthcare facilities around the world As a market leader of hand hygiene within the UK’s health service it has been instrumental in helping core NHS metrics to be achieved such as reductions in the number of healthcare associated infections (HCAIs) Its solutions encompass fast-active effective formulas that care for skin state of the art dispensers, and dedicated support such as the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) accredited training

Launching at the Cloisters in Westminster Abbey on 6th September 2023, ‘NHS 75: Celebrating 75 Years of the National Health Service is a beautifully presented hardback book that has been produced in partnership with leading publisher St James’s House and written by a team of academics and industry experts Exploring the origins history and impact of the NHS the fully illustrated publication marks the 75th anniversary of the service and the people and policies that have shaped it

Chris Wakefield V P European Marketing and Managing Director UK & Ireland GOJO Industries-Europe Ltd comments: ‘The NHS is one of the country’s most recognised and cherished organisations – here to improve our health and wellbeing support us to keep mentally and physically well and to help us get better

when we are ill The GOJO purpose of saving lives and making life better through wellbeing solutions’ very much aligns with these values, and it is what drives our innovation in hygiene

‘We are extremely proud to play a major role in helping prevent infection and improve public health and are thrilled to be included in this prestigious book celebrating 75 years of the wonderful NHS ’

As well as being the ideal partner to healthcare trusts and facilities GOJO is passionate about developing sustainable products that both clean and care for hands in a variety of sectors These include education, hospitality, leisure, retail, catering, food processing, offices manufacturing and more From soaps and hygienic hand rubs that can be used repeatedly throughout a busy shift in hospitals to specialist hand cleaners that remove tough soils from the hands of heavy-industry workers GOJO has an effective solution to remove germs and dirt whilst protecting skin health

Backed by a wealth of scientific expertise and specialist formulations GOJO is committed to developing sustainable products that deliver results and maintain skin health

PURELL remains the market leader thanks to its focus on formulation without compromise

For more information, call +44 (0)1908 588444 email CustomerExperienceUK@GOJO com, or visit https://www gojo eu/uk

Better Support For Unpaid Carers

Better support is on the way for the army of unpaid carers who do amazing work looking after older and vulnerable people across Yorkshire

The Independent Care Group (ICG) is teaming up with Carers Plus Yorkshire to help boost and spread support to more unpaid carers in the county

ICG has a range of training and support advice and guidance which will add value to the Carers Plus network and its partnership with the Carers Trust

One of the first joint ventures will be the provision of free dementia training for unpaid carers later this year The ICG has also invited them to see the plays written by Brian Daniels of Pluto Productions which give great insight into the current care system

ICG Chair Mike Padgham said: The army of unpaid carers here in

Yorkshire and across the country do an unbelievable job in providing vital care to those who need it Too often they go unrecognised and undersupported and through this partnership we hope to address that With 21 years in the care sector the ICG is perfectly placed to partner Carers Plus Yorkshire to share skills and experience for the benefit of those we will work together to support

And Elizabeth McPherson, CEO of Carers Plus said “We enable those we support to be heard We enhance their resilience improve their wellbeing and empower them to move forward and make sustainable positive changes in their day to day lives and personal circumstances Through this partnership with the ICG we hope to add to and improve the help we give to the carers we support ”

Residents Enjoy Canine Capers At Care Home’s Inaugural Pooch Parade

Residents from a Dorset dementia care home went down on the farm for a day of hands-on fun and animal magic

The party from Colten Care’s Fernhill home in Longham near Bournemouth enjoyed their minibus trip to nearby High Mead Farm so much they plan to return for more visits

High Mead is a four-acre community therapy farm offering a supported work environment for people who live with mental health issues physical disabilities addiction or dementia

Its staff and volunteers provide day services and a range of therapeutic activities including arts, crafts and the opportunity to work with animals soil and nature The farm also sells its own seasonal vegetables, honey and eggs

Four Fernhill residents – Joan Vohra Gwen Jellis Elizabeth Wilson and Patrick Ryan – went on the visit accompanied by Companionship

Care Homes Celebrate Pride!

The Hertfordshire Pride Festival held recently in Watford was a superb day of bringing communities together Sunday 19th August saw 3 homes from TLC Care, join forces to support this fabulous initiative Cuffley Manor Candlewood House and Cooperscroft Care Homes supported Hertsfordshire Pride to give everyone a chance to come together and make a positive impact in their local area

Hertfordshire Pride is a non-profit organisation run entirely and exclusively by volunteers to help support the local LGBTQ+ community There are many different ways people can help; from volunteering, to running a stall, or by providing food

Despite progress being made towards true equality in the UK there is still so much more we can and need to do LGBTQ+ people face discrimination every single day Pride is a time for us to increase awareness

Team members Ann Marie Knight and Miezy Reynolds

They cuddled rabbits held a tortoise saw Shetland ponies fed goats and pigs with apples, enjoyed a cream tea and picnic and took part in a pottery class

Ann Marie said: “We had a lot of fun in the pottery session making objects with the clay The staff and volunteers were so kind and helpful

“Some of our residents have farming experience and so a trip such as this is an ideal chance to rekindle memories

“Others simply enjoy the gift of animal companionship, especially if they had pets when they were younger

“It was a real delight to see the smiles on the faces of the residents as they were introduced to the animals and took part in the other activities We look forward to visiting again soon ”

of these matters and join to change this Cuffley Manor and Cooperscroft situated in Potters Bar and Candlewood House Care Home in Cricklewood took the opportunity to join Hertfordshire Pride for the day and introduce our beautiful homes to the guests visiting the stall Johan de Beer from Candlewood House Dawn Cawley from Cooperscroft as well as Richelle de Beer from Cuffley Manor all attended the event for the day and handed out goodie bags to guests and passersby

The team additionally met with the Mayor of Potters Bar, Mr Chris Myers, as well as Ward Councillor Chris Gray on the day and we discussed the exciting events that are coming up at Cuffley Manor, Candlewood House and Cooperscroft

Chris Myers Mayor of Potters Bar said;:

“I enjoyed my time at Care Home Open Week where Cuffley Manor and Cooperscroft Care Homes joined together to provide a real Carnival atmosphere I am looking forward to attending their Dementia Friends session including their Dementia Tour in September I am delighted to see Cuffley Manor, Candlewood House and Cooperscroft Care Homes supporting such a wonderful cause Hertfordshire Pride was a superb, fun filled day and all 3 homes will be returning next year to support the wonderful community Till then we want you to remember that Love is Love

Blast From The Past

Worcester Care Home Residents Travel Back In Time

A Worcester care home created a unique cinema experience to transport residents back to the roaring twenties

Residents at Care UK s Perry Manor on Charles Hastings Way stepped back in time as the home’s cinema was transformed into the golden era of the 1920s for a very special event

For a truly immersive experience team members and residents got dressed up in pearls flapper-style dresses and feather headpieces Everyone posed for photos against an art-deco style backdrop before being treated to a screening of The Great Gatsby

After the film and with music from the age of jazz playing in the background, residents enjoyed dinner from a Great Gatsby inspired menu which included devilled eggs pastry pigs tomato shrimp and mint juleps and lemon mocktails specially made by the home’s Chef

Residents and team members also put their dancing shoes as they boogied to the iconic 1920s Charleston dance There was even a special musical performance from 81-year-old resident, Graham Dibbens who serenaded the team and residents with classic songs from the era on the piano

Betty Hann a 96-year-old resident at Perry Manor said: The Charleston took me back to the days I would go dancing with my husband It was lovely to get dressed up too I m so grateful to the team for the fun activities they organise ”

Katherine Matthews Home Manager at Perry Manor said: We loved being able to create our Great Gatsby experience for residents and watch them sit back and relax as they travelled back in time to the 1920s

“Here at Perry Manor, we’re always coming up with new and exciting activities that help residents lead happy and fulfilling lives No matter your age or ability, films can transport you to around the world and across the decades – and with The Great Gatsby being a resident favourite we knew a 1920s party was sure to be a hit It was great fun transforming our cinema and wearing our best outfits for this very special event it s not every day you get to travel back in time!

“We were so pleased that it was a huge success – I m sure this will be the first of many movie-themed events!

Engineering Better Care

cost

The world is witnessing an unprecedented ageing of its population, and the next decade will see an extraordinary surge in the number of people aged 65 and over In the UK the current population of OAPs is set to double by 2045, increasing to a massive 3 1 million

With such a significant demographic shift future-proofing society for the elderly has become a top priority particularly when it comes to their accommodation This requires meticulous planning thoughtful landscaping, and well-considered layouts, accommodating for reduced mobility and mental faculties to offer a true "home for life"

Here structural and civil engineers can play a pivotal role in the construction of care communities that specifically meet the needs of the older generation Crucially the unique requirements of future residents need to be considered including social needs proximity to medical facilities and universal accessibility

So having worked on a number of care home projects I have some essential tips for delivering conscientiously-designed age-friendly developments grounded in years of experience

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

In any care home project, understanding the parameters of the selected site is crucial This means taking the topography into account and conducting a thorough survey to identify potential restrictions and the area’s existing infrastructure

Careful consideration must also be given to landscaping Minimising inclines is essential to create a safe and accessible environment for people of all ages from the fit 55-year-old to the frail nonagenarian Ensuring thoroughfares offer plenty of room to manoeuvre for mobility vehicles, adequate surface water drainage and the safety of residents are of top priority

BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO THE OLD

With greenfield land in short supply, brownfield sites do present a great opportunity for developers, particularly from a carbon reduction perspective when aiming to meet sustainability clauses in the project specification

Here understanding the lie of the land is especially important If it's categorised as a brownfield there is a specific set of regulatory restrictions that need to be considered For example to achieve planning permission, the land's quality and composition need to be thoroughly assessed and, where necessary, reinforced with any identified contamination removed before construction can begin

This then needs to be followed by very careful remediation of the land before it can be prepared for building and landscaping Whilst this can come at a significant upfront cost the long-term gains are potentially huge and provide a welcome solution for the lack of appropriate stock for the elderly Just to highlight the scale of this opportunity the CPRE reports dormant brownfield sites in the UK offer space for 1 2 million homes This means care homes can be built with better access to urban areas and utilities at a lower carbon

By Ewa Ambrosius, Associate at Perega (www perega co uk)

Sustainablity in desgin should also be kept in mind Take for instance the Rye Care Home in Sussex A modern three-story care facility on the same site as the Rye, Winchelsea and District Memorial Hospital We at Perega advised on the design and construction of the home to Passivhaus standards; a comfortable and low running cost /carbon emissions building Minimal air leakages an exceptional level of thermal efficiency and effective ventilation not only have positive implications for the environment but will also translate to reduced service charges and lowered fuel costs

DESIGNING A PLACE TO GROW OLD

Creating an inclusive environment for the elderly poses a unique challenge It must account for the inevitable cognitive and physical deterioration that limits everyday activities

Around 70% of those residing in care homes grapple with dementia diagnoses which range from mild to severe emphasising the importance of adopting a person-centred approach during the facility’s design phase The Elmside Care Home in Hitchin, specifically tailored to care for residents with dementia, illustrates that a facility is not just its physical structure With numerous communal spaces and amenities such as a hair salon therapy rooms and coffee shop it is a genuine community Here residents find support comfort and a sense of belonging

This touches on a primary concern for senior citizens moving into a care home the risk of isolation and difficulty of forming new friendships especially as they start to get frailer As such these developments need to be planned as close-knit hubs ensuring plenty of on-site communal areas within a suitable walking distance from residents’ dwellings With a mandatory minimum allocation of 3 9m2 of communal space per person project teams need to guarantee they ve made enough accommodation for this within developments

Here your civil and structural engineering team can provide expert advice ensuring that each facility can safely slot around the residential assets within the development and link with wider utilities

INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENTS

Furthermore this work needs to avoid creating isolated bubbles for the elderly so thoughtful consideration of the development s proximity to existing infrastructure is essential

These days care homes don t tend to be built in the middle of nowhere so for successful integration within the wider community, it must align with the local authority's long-term planning strategy That means getting the council on board at the earliest possible stage

Civil engineers can also play an active part here supporting seamless integration and designing transport links that neatly connect with existing road and rail links facilitating easy access for visiting friends and family as well as resident’s attendance at medical appointments The close proximity to urban areas also provides residents with the opportunity for group outings and interactions beyond the home

Ultimately at the heart of any community are its people but the true essence of a thriving community has to be a winning combination of the right location conscientious design and easy-to-access services and amenities

Promotion Bolsters Dementia Care At Specialist Residence

ONE of Scotland s leading care facilities has announced the appointment of a new specialist that will further improve its high-quality dementia services

ElaineVallance has been promoted to Head of Lifestyle at Cramond Residence bringing more than six years of expert care knowledge to the home s lifestyle team

Elaine, who joined Cramond Residence 15 months ago, will organise a wide range of activities designed to bring meaningful socialisation to residents – a major factor in treating dementia patients

She said: “I’m passionate about delivering the best possible quality of care to our residents during their golden years

I love spending time with our residents and I am lucky to now head up an incredible team who always give their best to ensure that the standard of care we deliver is second to none

“When you come away from an activity that residents have enjoyed and you see a smile on their faces it s hugely rewarding and motivating I m really excited and thankful to be given this opportunity and I am looking forward to working with the team to bring forward more fantastic activities for our residents ”

Cramond Residence strives to ensure that those living with dementia live a fulfilled life The home offers

a dedicated dementia floor specially designed for those living with the condition to allow them to live a richer and more satisfying life with specialist facilities and trained staff on hand to provide support and relief

Dementia training sits at the top of the care home’s agenda with 90% of their staff being provided with vital dementia training

Elaine added: We have already had a series of fantastic events for residents such as a trip on the trams to Newhaven, as well as a sports day which was popular with the residents

“In the future I have plans to create a sensory room for our residents living with dementia this will provide a stimulating environment with huge mental benefits

“I will continue channelling all my energies and passion into delivering what Cramond Residence is all about delivering top quality care to those who stay with us ”

Client Liaison Manager Christian Daraio said: Elaine has a wonderfully kind and nurturing personality which the residents love

“We are incredible lucky to have her on our team and I am really looking forward to seeing what fantastic opportunities she no doubt has in store for our residents in the future

Skipton Care Home Shortlisted As Luxur y Award Finalist

Not-for-profit later-living provider Anchor s Skipton care home The Mill House has been handpicked as a finalist by property giant Knight Frank in their Luxury Care Home Awards 2024

Since its launch in 2016 the annual awards have received numerous submissions, with this year’s winners being announce at Knight Frank s Healthcare Property Lunch this autumn The submitted care homes are judged based on the design of the homes, the refurbishments and renovation work that have been undertaken as well as the quality of care provided

The Mill House can be found on the site of an old mill overlooking the Leeds and Liverpool canal The judges were impressed by the unique luxury apartments which have been designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding community whilst retaining the original features of the former Mill Taller rooms and increased window heights contribute to the building s design to ensure each lounge and dining area benefits from two aspects of natural light, with the build-

ing following the natural curve of the canal to provide many of the bedrooms and private terraces with lovely canal views

Rob Martin Managing Director of Care Services at Anchor comments: “We are proud to have made the shortlist for such a prestigious award especially as there are some incredible developments alongside us in this category of amazing quality and diversity

“Following The Mill House’s recent opening it has been great to see residents loving the high specification and the carefully curated design of the homes in a picturesque location

“The Mill House is a timeless piece with its attention to detail in every design feature providing a unique home where our residents will love living in later life The wellbeing and lifestyle experiences of our residents are a huge priority of ours, so it’s great to be recognised and we are looking forward to the awards ”

Families to Sue Government Over Failure to Protect Care Home Residents

Thirty families are to begin legal action against the government care homes and several hospitals in England over the deaths of their relatives during the early days of the Covid pandemic

The families contend that not enough was done to protect their loved ones from the virus and are claiming damages for loss of life and the distress caused

The families argue that not enough was done to prevent the deaths and are claiming

All the cases relate to deaths in 2020 when patients infected with Covid were being transferred from hospitals into care homes without testing and failing to take into account risk in order to free up NHS beds

The families say their human rights were breached by the government’s failure to protect their relatives right to life as well as their right to private and family life and not to be discriminated against

The cases follow a 2022 High Court judgement

that ruled the government’s policy was unlawful, as it failed to take into account the risk to elderly and vulnerable care home residents of asymptomatic transmission of the virus

The ruling said there was no evidence the then health secretary Matt Hancock considered or was asked to consider the need for isolation of discharges into care homes in March 2020 and so it was not an example of a political judgment

The government however, says it sought to safeguard care home residents using the best evidence available at the time

Between early March and early June 2020 almost 20 000 care home residents in England and Wales died with Covid-19 which was almost a third of all care home deaths during that period

Emma Jones from Leigh Day solicitors is representing the families She says she hopes for a full and thorough investigation into the deaths which might help our clients to feel they have obtained justice for their loved ones”

Exotic Creatures Amaze Oadby Care Home Residents

surprised by the feel of the millipede’s legs crawling on my arm I have to say it was a little ticklish ”

Resident Clive Reeves took the chance to stroke a baby tortoise He said: The tortoise was so small but was friendly and calm I enjoyed stroking it

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

Residents at RMBI Care Co Home Devonshire Court in Oadby have recently enjoyed a friendly visit from a wide range of exotic creatures, including a tortoise a fluffy rabbit a a hamster and a millipede

The residents were astonished and delighted to meet the animals who were brought in by a specialist from Animal Interaction, 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 Rita Clubberley was amazed when she held a millipede She said: I was most

Fiona Collins one of Devonshire Court s Activities Coordinators, 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

NHS England Launches Tech Trials To Boost Health and Care Connectivity

NHS England is supporting the trials to ensure health and care organisations make the most out of current and emerging wireless technology to deliver digital healthcare services

Funding applications for proposals that aim to improve connectivity in the health and care setting or maximise efficiency of existing digital infrastructure are open via the Connectivity Hub

Previous wireless trials include the development of University College London Hospitals’ Find and Treat service, which uses high-tech tools and software to provide real-time remote diagnosis and referrals on board a mobile health unit The service provides remote screening testing and treatment for vulnerable homeless and high-risk people in London

Another trial led to South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust becoming the first 5G-connected hospital in the UK The trial gave clinicians access to digital innovations such as the eObs app (eObservations) which enables the use of handheld devices to update patient records digitally and make live observations

This new Wireless Trials programme will provide NHS organisations with the capability it needs to deliver its challenging digital ambitions set out in the NHS Long Term Plan

Successful trial applicants will benefit from funding for their project advice and guidance from NHS England and the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded organisations on Wi-Fi improvement projects

powered by innovation

NHS England will also capture best practice from successful trialists and share this across the wider NHS to enable scaled learning

Stephen Koch, Executive Director of Platforms, NHS England, said:

Wireless technology has an increasingly important role to play in delivering effective and efficient digital health services to provide the best care for patients

“The wireless trials are designed to help the NHS understand how existing and emerging Wi-Fi solutions can support the delivery of better health and social care across the wider NHS

“We look forward to working with successful trialists to explore opportunities for wireless technologies and high-speed connectivity that take another step forward in digital transformation and in improving patient care ”

The wireless trials applications will run from Summer 2023 and will be reviewed throughout the year on a rolling basis

Applicants will need to provide an overview of their wireless project and objectives the anticipated outcome and impact for delivery of health or social care as well as the healthcare need or technological challenge they are seeking to overcome Visit the Connectivity Hub for more information and how to apply

Downing House Garden Given A Splash Of Colour By Abbvie Volunteers

Residents at Downing House a residential care home in Withington were delighted to welcome a group of volunteers from pharmaceutical research and development company, AbbVie, to create a sensory garden in the house s grounds

Downing House, managed by The Abbeyfield Society has large landscaped grounds that often provide the perfect location for outdoor activities and summer parties but the 25 residents are not able to make use of the whole space

The seven-strong AbbVie team visited as part of the company s employee volunteering programme with home’s Activities Coordinator, Rubina Hewitt, organising the tasks and supporting them on the day

Rubina explains, “A part of our grounds was sadly neglected and served no real purpose so the AbbVie volunteering day provided the perfect opportunity to give it a new lease of life

We chose to create a colourful vibrant sensory garden in order to give our residents, many of whom are living with dementia an outside space on their doorstep that stimulates their senses

Being outdoors and engaging with nature is proven to improve cognitive function and lessen the

effects of degenerative diseases such as dementia

We hope that the good weather lasts so that our residents can fully immerse themselves in and enjoy the sights smells and sounds of their new garden ”

In addition to the sensory garden the volunteers also painted some beautiful artwork on the walls of the grounds

Resident Norma Rosson whose room overlooks one of the murals, said, “I never used to have much of a view from my bedroom so it was a lovely surprise to look out of my window and suddenly see something bright and beautiful!”

AbbVie – whose volunteers also repainted benches built raised beds and planted new flowers – generously reimbursed Abbeyfield for the cost of the materials needed to complete the work

One resident Bernard Mole said The volunteers were very nice people and it was lovely to see them giving up their free time to help others ”

Nor wich Care Home Manager Shows Off A Ver y Different Side!

A manager of a residential care home in Norwich has shown off a very different side to her day job by qualifying for the British Finals of a Body Building competition

Emily Carrasquillo from Black Swan s Laurel Lodge care home on Ipswich Road in Norwich can usually be found managing the care home which supports 31 residents and nearly 40 staff But outside of work, her passion is fitness and body building and, together with her partner, she takes part in competitions in the UK

In the most recent UK Ultimate Physique regional competition in York she qualified for the British Finals in which she will go headto-head (or body to body!) against some of the best physiques in the UK, with the winner to be crowned the UK’s Ultimate Physiques British Champion in their chosen category

Emily performed her routine wearing an individually created bikini encrusted with a sparkling crystal Black Swan Care Group design, reflecting the Norfolk-based care group who sponsored her for the event

Emily explained her passion: I ve always been passionate about fitness and took up bodybuilding 7 years ago Doing the competitions has been exhilarating and I m absolutely delighted to have qualified for the national championships

I am just as passionate about bodybuilding as I am with being a registered care home manager I manage my time very well by training at 3 30am to then go straight to work I m very grateful to Black Swan who have sponsored me, and I can t wait to take part in the championships final in York on 1st October ”

Unlocking the Full Potential: 15 Advantages of Residential Care Homes for Seniors

Since the pandemic the landscape of senior care has witnessed a significant shift As individuals around the world grappled with the challenges posed by the global health crisis, the perception of residential care homes as a lifestyle choice for seniors underwent a notable transformation

Prioritising safety and personal well-being many people started to associate residential care homes solely with meeting specific care requirements rather than embracing them as a preferred living option

However it is crucial to reevaluate the advantages that residential care homes offer to seniors These unique communities have long provided a nurturing environment companionship and a range of tailored services that enhance the quality of life for older adults

As the industry works tirelessly to regain trust and instil confidence in potential residents it is essential to shed light on the multitude of benefits that residential care homes can offer in this post-Covid era

With this in mind Stewart Mcginn, Managing Director at Baycroft Care Homes (www baycroft co uk) explores the 15 advantages of residential care homes highlighting why they are an excellent choice for ageing individuals and their families

1. PERSONALISED CARE:

Residential care homes provide personalised care plans tailored to individual needs Trained staff members are available around the clock to assist residents with daily activities medication management and health monitoring ensuring their safety and well-being

2 INDEPENDENCE:

While residents receive support with their daily tasks, residential care homes emphasise maintaining independence Residents have the freedom to make decisions about their daily routines and enjoy a sense

of autonomy boosting their self-esteem and overall satisfaction

3 COMPANIONSHIP

Social interaction is crucial for emotional well-being Residential care homes foster a sense of community, allowing residents to engage in activities events and outings with their peers This companionship reduces feelings of isolation and enhances overall happiness

4. SAFETY AND SECURITY

One of the primary concerns for seniors is safety Residential care homes offer a secure environment with trained staff members who are adept at handling emergency situations promptly This ensures residents safety providing peace of mind for both residents and their families

5. NUTRITIOUS MEALS

Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining good health Residential care homes offer well-balanced meals prepared by professional chefs taking into account residents' dietary restrictions and preferences Regular meals contribute to overall well-being and prevent malnutrition

6 MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING

Living in a residential care home eliminates the burdens of household chores and maintenance tasks Staff members handle housekeeping laundry and home maintenance responsibilities allowing residents to focus on enjoying their lives to the fullest

7 ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Residential care homes often have partnerships with healthcare providers and offer on-site medical services Regular health check-ups, medication management and assistance with doctor s appointments are readily available, ensuring residents' healthcare needs are met effectively

8 ENHANCED QUALITY OF LIFE

With a wide range of amenities and recreational activities available residential care homes enhance the quality of life for seniors Residents can participate in fitness programs arts and crafts cultural events and educational workshops, fostering a vibrant and engaging lifestyle

9. PEACE OF MIND FOR FAMILIES: Choosing a residential care home for a loved one provides families with peace of mind They can rest assured that their loved ones are receiving professional care, support, and supervision in a nurturing and

secure environment

10 TRANSPORTATION SERVICES:

Many residential care homes offer transportation services enabling residents to attend medical appointments, social outings, and shopping trips This convenience ensures that seniors can maintain an active lifestyle and stay connected with the outside community

11. ASSISTANCE WITH ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING (ADLS)

Residents in residential care homes receive assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing dressing grooming and mobility Trained caregivers are available to provide support, ensuring that residents can maintain their personal hygiene and overall well-being

12 PEACEFUL AND COMFORTABLE LIVING SPACES

Residential care homes offer well-designed living spaces that are comfortable and adapted to the needs of seniors These homes provide a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere allowing residents to feel at home and relax in a stress-free environment

13 MENTAL STIMULATION

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities is vital for cognitive health Residential care homes organise various activities that challenge residents minds including puzzles brain games discussion groups and educational seminars promoting mental agility and preventing cognitive decline

14 RESPITE CARE SERVICES

Residential care homes often provide respite care services allowing primary caregivers the chance to take a break from their responsibilities Whether for a few days or weeks respite care ensures that caregivers can rest and rejuvenate while their loved ones receive proper care in a supportive environment

15 CONTINUUM OF CARE

Many residential care homes offer a continuum of care meaning they can adapt to residents' changing needs As individuals age or experience health challenges the care provided can be adjusted accordingly, ensuring a seamless transition and minimising disruptions

Residential care homes offer numerous benefits that cater to the specific needs of ageing individuals From personalised care plans and companionship to enhanced quality of life and peace of mind for families these facilities prioritise the well-being of seniors

Barbie Day Charity Fundraiser A Huge Success At The Runwood Homes Care Group

Care homes across the Runwood Homes group celebrated in Barbie themed attire to collectively raise money for

success amongst the group collectively raising £866 for the charities The team at Head Office said: “We were absolutely over the moon to see all the homes participating in this year s Barbie fundraising celebrations To see all the residents, families and teams dress in their best barbie and ken costumes was wonderful experience for us all, and it was great to see everyone having so much fun Collectively we raised an impressive amount for the charities The plans are already in motion for the next themed fundraiser and can t wait to unveil this to the Runwood Homes group

What To Consider When Choosing A Staff Attack System For Care Settings

With reports revealing up to 85% of care workers experience abuse each year and thousands of serious attacks on carers recorded the need for reliable, efficient staff attack systems in care settings has never been greater

Protecting care workers is vital for staff morale and productivity but also patient care and long-term treatment outcomes

Choosing the right staff alarm system therefore requires careful consideration, and the weighing up of the following factors

EFFICIENCY & SPEED

Quick intervention is crucial when preventing a violent attack In care settings patients may become aggressive suddenly with little to no warning

The most effective staff attack systems work rapidly allowing employees to summon assistance quickly and easily should they face abusive behaviour from a service user

PRECISE

Equally, the accuracy of a staff safety system is a key consideration

When an alarm is triggered the response team should be informed of the exact location of the call – allowing for rapid intervention and thus prevention of harm

This is particularly true for large facilities with multiple floors and rooms and in cases where multiple alarms have been activated simultaneously Pinpoint s latest P2 Graphical Display Unit for example clearly demonstrates the call level and precise location of incidents on rotation enabling responders to allocate support as required

USER-FRIENDLY

Staff alarm systems for care workers should be simple-to-use and easily accessible In the face of hostili-

ty or violence carers should be able to activate their personal alarm quickly and without alerting the aggressor

This was a key factor in the development of Pinpoint’s new P2 System which benefits from a more sophisticated discreet design Worn on the staff member’s uniform, the P2 personal alarm is lightweight and easy to use Employees simply press a button on the device to call for assistance and in more high-risk situations where a service user is becoming aggressive, the worker pulls a pin from the bottom of the device to sound an emergency alarm

ROBUSTNESS

Vandalism of safety systems is not uncommon in high-risk work settings, as service users can tamper with or abuse the devices out of frustration Choosing a robust safety system is therefore an important and cost-effective measure for care homes

FOLLOW UP SUPPORT

When looking into staff attack systems it s wise to consider how much follow-up support is offered by the provider, the length of the warranty period available, and whether repairs or assistance with maintenance issues is available Doing this from the outset will prevent problems later down the line!

As rates of violence toward staff in Care settings increase so too does the need for powerful efficient staff safety systems Choosing the right system will depend on the environment in question the security needs of the staff and the threat posed by service users Keeping the above factors in mind will serve as useful guidance for facilities looking to make the best choice for the safety of their employees

Interested in learning more about Pinpoint s P2 System? Visit www pinpoint ltd uk/staff-safety-system

Why Time Is The Care Sector’s Greatest Gift

By Carrie McDonald clinical safety officer at Nourish Care (https://nourishcare co uk/)

In conversations about the digitisation of Health and social care people always say that digital saves time which is a hot commodity you can’t make more of You only have as much as you ve got

There is no question that digital saves time There is less time spent recording information but there are other time savers too - the possibility of less adverse events to respond to freedom from the agony of searching for pieces of paper or the right form to fill in and the ability to share information without the need for phone calls faxes and emails

As someone who has always relished spending time with those in care it s no surprise that I ended up at Nourish The care sector is all I have ever known My mother ran a care home when I was growing up and we’d spend school holidays there weekends it was like a second home I loved to spend my time there

When I left school I worked as a care assistant in stroke rehabilitation before going to do my nurse training I was then a nurse within the NHS where I cared for patients with a lot of complex needs and comorbidities As great as the care being delivered was, hospital environments were not always conducive to supporting those whose needs spanned across multiple specialities I found this particularly difficult with older adults who had come into hospital from social care settings I knew I wanted to improve the care experience for people all people and as a small voice in a large organisation I wasn t sure where to start

For the last 10 years or so I worked in senior management within the care home sector Being with the people receiving care and support is undoubtedly my favourite part of being a nurse

As a carer, I got a lot from sharing my time with older people and I know other carers feel the same I feel

really privileged that I have heard so many stories from these people who have all contributed to my life and helped me become the person I am It was the relationships I formed with those in care that made me want to improve standards and as I had seen first hand how Nourish was leading the charge when it came to digitisation in care I wanted to be part of that

Digital is not a solution to paper it’s a solution to care It gives you the ability to view all the important and relevant information about a person joined up and in context this can support informed and timely decision making as care and support givers As a care home manager, you need to have oversight of the care your service provides 24/7 for 365 days of the year but how do you keep track of every minute of that? This is the ultimate challenge with paper There’s a whole team of people involved in the care of one person and communication and coordination are vital to make sure that person can receive the right care at the right time

I don’t believe anyone comes into the care sector because they love to ‘complete documentation’, they want to make a difference to people s lives or at least have an impact on a small part of their lives Relevant information is vital to effective care and support delivery and our responsibility as digital care solutions is to make capturing and utilizing that information/data as easy and useful as possible

I was on the frontline of care during COVID and that came with enormous challenges – practical and emotional I managed a care home during an outbreak of COVID and what will stay with me most about that time will always be the relentless commitment from all those around me I don t just mean the care home team (who were incredible), I mean the pharmacists, the paramedics, the district nurses, the COVID testing teams the social workers the families – the list goes on Not everything always went right not every process worked, but everyone I came into contact with during that time was doing their best for the people that needed care and support the most

I learned that the best way to improve things is to collaborate, share information It’s about thinking, how can we make this better for everybody? Those who care generally do it because it s a vocation and like me they want to have enough time to deliver excellent care

give emotional support assess needs or just have a cup of tea and good old blether Those in care? They don t want to feel like another task that must be rushed through Time is the greatest gift you can give them Half an hour spent gassing over a cup of tea can make a person’s day

The Whitecroft Care Home Rolls Out New Resident Of The Day Initiative

Case Study: Bathing Cushion Has Enabled Carers To Bathe A Man Who Was Previously Afraid Of Water

Staff at a Yorkshire assisted living complex can deliver dignified safe supported personal hygiene to a man with dementia via Aqua Liberty- a unique bathing support system

The gentleman lives in supported accommodation and receives 24 hr care

He has recently been diagnosed with dementia and has complex mental and physical disabilities He is non-verbal and is hoisted for all transfers He has high muscle tone in his arms and legs which mean he benefits from being immersed in water He previously enjoyed baths when he lived at home and this is something his family told the care team that he loved

Since moving into supported accommodation and being diagnosed with dementia staff had been unable to support him to shower as he became distressed when the water hit his body

He would hit out at the people supporting him Staff tried to lower him into the bath via the ceiling track hoist but as soon as his body contacted the water he became distressed Staff had therefore been strip washing daily on the bed which was also distressing for this man due to the number of movements required whilst he was lying on the bed

The Occupational Therapist involved in the man s case Julie Snowden from Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust felt that there were some issues with proprioception and him feeling unsafe and disorientated when he didn t know where his body was in space He also needed postural support as his core stability was poor and he benefited greatly from the feeling of being safe and cocooned

with the bath cushion already in place

Aqua Liberty is the only vacuum support cushion system that fits any bath and any user It is also unique in being developed in the UK in partnership with individuals with a disability and Occupational Therapists

The lightweight adjustable system comprises a central flexible backpiece that fits any bath It is quick and easy to secure into position and to remove Any of a range of mix and match vacuum posture cushions is then easily attached to the backpiece to provide infinitely remouldable adjustable pressure-free support for the bather

In this case a Comfortable Plus cushions was used Combining a corset and and seat in one the Comfortable Plus Duo delivers correct torso and pelvis positioning stabilising her vertically and laterally, holding her in place without pressure By making use of vacuum technology, the cushion can be precisely altered by carers to deliver optimal comfort as needed, without pressure points

Commented Julie: “Although he initially became slightly worried once his body came into contact with the bath cushion and he was sitting in it he became visibly relaxed Staff were able to support him to bathe for the first time! Bathing with the Aqua Liberty is now an essential part of his routine; a bath helps him to relax reduces muscle tone aids digestion and is

New Risk Score Strongly Predicts Dementia Chances

A new dementia risk score calculator’ identifies people potentially at risk of developing the disease within the next 14 years according to a study published by The British Medical Journal (BMJ)

A new dementia risk score which draws on 11 mostly modifiable risk factors identifies people at risk – from mid-life onwards – of developing the disease within the next 14 years suggests a new study

The findings are from a large long-term study published in the open access journal BMJ Mental Health which shows that the UK Biobank Dementia Risk Score (UKBDRS) outperformed three other widely used risk scores

40% OF CASES COULD BE AVERTED

Up to 50 million people worldwide are thought to be living with dementia with numbers projected to triple by 2050

But targeting key risk factors several of which involve lifestyle could potentially avert around 40% of cases

Various risk scores have been devised to try and predict a person’s chances of developing dementia while preventive measures are still possible

But these scores have proved unreliable across different age groups and geographies, and some rely on expensive and invasive tests

To try and get round these issues the researchers drew on two large groups of 50 to 73-year olds participating in two long-term studies – one group for developing the new risk score (the UK Biobank study) and one for validating it (Whitehall II)

RISK FACTORS IDENTIFIED

11 DEMENTIA

The researchers produced 11 predictive factors for any type of dementia: - age

- education

- history of diabetes

- history of or current depression

- history of stroke

- parental dementia

- economic disadvantage (Townsend deprivation index)

- high blood pressure

- high cholesterol - living alone

- male sex

The APOE gene which is involved in the production of a protein that helps carry cholesterol and other types of fat in the bloodstream, is a known risk factor for dementia It was also added to the risk score (UKBDRS-APOE)

Within 14 years 3813 (nearly 2%) and 93 (just over 3%) participants developed dementia in the UK Biobank and Whitehall II groups respectively “THINGS WE CAN DO TO HELP REDUCE OUR RISK”

The researchers suggest that the accuracy of their risk score could be further improved by adding cognitive tests, a brain scan, and a blood test for indicators of neurodegeneration

“The UKBDRS may best be used as an initial screening tool to stratify people into risk groups and those identified as high risk could then benefit from the more time intensive follow-up assessments suggested lead author Dr Raihaan Patel

It s important to remember that this risk score only tells us about our chances of developing dementia; it doesn’t represent a definitive outcome said lead co-author associate Professor Sana Suri

“The importance of each risk factor varies and given that some of the factors included in the score can be modified or treated there are things we can all do to help reduce our risk of dementia ”

She explains: While older age (60 and above) and APOE confer the greatest risk, modifiable factors, such as diabetes, depression, and high blood pressure also have a key role

“For example, the estimated risk for a person with all of these will be approximately three times higher than that of a person of the same age who doesn’t have any ”

The researchers also acknowledge various limitations to their research The classification of dementia differed between the two groups as did the demographics, lifestyle, and health of the participants

“There are many steps we would need to take before we can use this risk score in clinical practice added Dr Patel “THE UK’S MOST

ACCURATE DEMENTIA RISK CALCULATOR”

Dr Richard Oakley Associate Director of Research and Innovation at Alzheimer s Society, said:

This Alzheimer s Society-funded research is in its early stages but it s exciting as it gives us the UK’s most accurate dementia risk calculator

While it s still under development we hope it will soon help identify people in mid-life who are at greater risk of developing dementia so they can make changes to their lifestyle to try to reduce that risk

As a rule of thumb for everyone what s good for the heart is good for the head and taking care of your cardiovascular health could help reduce your risk of getting dementia

“Eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and heavy drinking, and exercising regularly can all help

Finavon Court Achieves Outstanding Inspection Report

Finavon Court, a care home in Glenrothes, Fife has received an exceptional report from the Care Inspectorate In an unannounced inspection the first since the Holmes Care Group took over management of the home Finavon Court scored very good in four categories

The inspection report highlighted the exceptional quality of the staff at the home with the team s kindness and compassion singled out as key factors contributing to the positive experiences of residents

The home was commended for its person-centred approach with detailed support plans tailored for the unique needs and preferences of each resident The inspectors noted the kind and relaxed interactions between staff and residents which foster an environment of “dignity and respect

Inspectors were impressed by the diverse range of engaging activities offered by the home noting staff were motivated and committed to providing people with good experiences” These activities were observed to

It’s Your “Turn”

By Greg Whelan, Product

&

Marketing Director, Wellell UK Limited (uk wellell com)

Pressure Ulcers can be serious and lead to life threatening complications such as blood poisoning and gangrene So knowing that this can happen what are the necessary steps to help prevent these and what obstacles do care home managers encounter that can give rise to these occurrences?

A simple understanding of how pressure ulcers occur and who is most likely to get them is important and equally how can they be prevented through appropriate equipment and turning regimes

HOW DOES A PRESSURE ULCER OCCUR?

Pressure ulcers can happen when an area of skin and the tissues underneath it are damaged by being under such pressure that the blood supply is reduced commonly tending to occur when people spend long periods in a bed or chair

Anyone living in a care home can develop a pressure ulcer but some factors make it more likely

Risk factors include:

• Limited mobility or being unable to change position without help

A loss of feeling in part of the body

• Having had a pressure ulcer before or having one now

Not having eaten well for a period of time and/or being dehydrated

Thin, dry or fragile skin

A significant cognitive impairment

WHAT ACTIONS SHOULD TAKE PLACE?

For people living in care homes who have one or more risk factors and who have been referred to the community nurse, a pressure ulcer risk assessment should be carried out and documented on their first visit

Make a written care plan for anyone assessed as being at high risk of developing a pressure ulcer and review it regularly The plan should focus on the actions needed to help prevent a pressure ulcer from developing taking into account:

enhance the residents' overall quality of life and promote a sense of belonging as “regular bus trips to the local community were enjoyed”

Finally the report highlighted strong leadership and management practices with Finavon Court s management team leading by example and ensuring effective communication across all levels of the organisation The report found “this approach supports positive outcomes for people’s overall health and wellbeing Staff had continuous access to specialist training and felt valued and supported by the manager

Dawn Hunter manager at Finavon Court Care Home said:

“We are incredibly proud of the outstanding results we have attained in the Care Inspectorate report This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team who consistently go above and beyond to provide the highest standard of care for our residents We are dedicated to helping them live happy and healthy lives and will always strive for improvement "

The results of the risk and skin assessment

The need for any extra pressure relief, for example a high-specification mattress and/or cushion

The person s mobility and ability to change position unaided

Any other conditions

The person s own views and wishes including whether they are able to understand the risks and make an informed decision If not use of the Mental Capacity Act may be necessary

BUT WHAT OBSTACLES WILL THE CARE HOME MANAGER FACE WHEN MANAGING PRESSURE ULCERS?

The care home manager once faced with a client suffering a pressure ulcer is potentially exposed to a long process of nursing intervention to manage the PU (PI – Pressure Injury now in more widespread use) to get to a stage where it has fully healed Subject to the risk assessment carried out the care plan will identify what actions need to take place and regular turning on a suitable mattress is one of the critical factors in PI management and importantly prevention

Sometimes the added difficulty faced by the home is that of cost and staffing levels all of which can be managed more effectively by introducing suitable equipment to effect regular turning – both automatically and continuously, in cycles that can be identified in the Risk assessment needs and included in the care plan to be put into place

Wellell UK Limited, a longstanding medical device manufacturer designed and introduced the cutting edge lateral turning mattress system Optima Turn With its multiple settings it can be used in step up and step down therapy to meet the needs of each client requiring the mattress and help either prevent or eradicate any newly acquired or historical PI whilst offering efficiency improvements enhanced care reduced staff moving and handling injuries and greater dignity to the client, especially when in a palliative state Why not ask us to demonstrate the product to you and even trial it and see how we can prove not only its clinical credibility but also the huge cost savings that it can bring to each care home After all more efficient equipment means healthier clients reduced stress levels on staff and happier family members of those clients in your care If you would like more information please contact us via our website: https://uk wellell com/en/howcan-we-help or call on 01905 774 695

See advert on back cover for further details

References taken from NICE Guidelines: https //www n ce org uk/about/nice-communities/socialcare/quick-guides/help ng-to-prevent-pressure-ulcers#repos t on ng-advice

Realising The Future Of Hospice Design For Young People

The importance of UK hospice care and its place within our society cannot be underestimated Putting patients, their families and the people caring for them at the heart of design is essential and never more important than in the case of young adults requiring hospice care provision

The transition into young adulthood can be incredibly complex and the impact that the wider environment and physical space can have on this experience for a young person is immeasurable

With developments in medication and health technology advancing like never before and subsequently life expectancy increasing amongst both the old and the young demand for hospice provision for younger people is expected to increase even more

Here, Stuart Franklin, Associate Director at JDDK Architects (www jddk co uk) considers four key pillars to place front and centre when thinking about the future of hospice design for young people

environment rather than a typically institutionalised ‘hospital’ space is a key part of the process This can be anything from disguising a hoist sling in a bathroom or hiding other necessary care equipment or settings in a subtle way as well as ensuring patients have access to functionality to allow them to control their own environment with regards to lighting heating and ventilation

We find outdoor space and layout to be a critical factor in young adult hospice design as if approached correctly, it can reap so many positive benefits for patients and their visitors Ensuring sustainability is also at the heart of everything from the materials used through to the build process is an area of growing importance to young people too

GIVE YOUNG PEOPLE THEIR SAY

In our experience young people aren t always used to having a say in things which directly impact them so giving them a voice should be part of the design approach as it can be hugely positive and empowering for them at this stage in their journey From the outset, we always make sure to get a thorough ‘brief from the patient alongside hospice staff and their families – everyone gets involved

A big part of our role is to tease answers out of users encouraging them to think outside of the box to ultimately help them shape a better quality of life for themselves Giving these young adults their own social space is the crux of what we are trying to achieve We incorporate all the different things they should expect as part of this transition from childhood into early adulthood including space to entertain These are all the basic things we would expect as adults but in a familiar environment which takes transitional considerations into account such as proximity to their previous hospice location We listen throughout to flex and change the design as needed, meaning every build is as unique as its inhabitants

FOCUS

ON THE FUTURE OF HOSPICE DESIGN

Factor emotion into design

Dealing with teenagers and young adults who want not only a say in how their space is used but privacy dignity and independence within that space which translates differently depending on the individual and their specific needs can in some instances present unforeseen challenges

It is vital to always consider the bigger picture, in societal terms of giving young adults hope One poignant finding from our years of work in this space has been the importance of consulting with users from the very start of a project and throughout its journey Hospices are user-centric buildings so getting in the minds of the people who will be using and living in them will always help to find the best solution together

CONSIDER A NOT SO ‘TYPICAL’ ENVIRONMENT

The hospices of today that will last into the future need to be truly flexible spaces leading into and flowing from one another Exploring ways to encourage inclusivity and, in some instances, independent living, must also be considered

People understand design more than ever before particularly this younger age group so elevated and sophisticated design which is contemporary and understated is essential Designing a home-from-home

Developments in medication and health technology are advancing like never before and subsequently life expectancy is increasing amongst both the old and the young We expect to see a significant increase in the demand for hospice provision for younger patients because of this and a greater emphasis put on these spaces as social hubs providing community connections for those both directly and indirectly impacted by young adults requiring hospice care Whilst health conditions can continue to be managed and treated, the social needs associated with holistic care will need to catch up such as considering the wellbeing and mental health provisions for patients and providing respite resources for carers

It s also important to remember that admission into one of these spaces doesn t always signify the end and in many instances they are there to get better Not only are hospices providing a huge beacon of hope, they also further ties with local communities in a number of ways, which can be of huge benefit for young patients We have seen notable success when hospices have collaborated with organisations to facilitate gainful employment or work experience for patients There is huge scope for advancements and community benefits to aid society and the people at the heart of this essential provision

Residents At Local Care Home Lend Their Ears To Live Music Performance

Residents and guests at Hugh Myddelton House care home in Southgate enjoyed a live concert performance that took place at the home Local singer Ian James performed a selection of summertime sounds

Residents joined in with the singing and clapped along as the band performed their finale song Summertime General Manager Jade Shea said Our residents and guests

had a wonderful day singing along with the wonderful performers We do our best to provide a wide range of activities and entertainment at Hugh Myddelton House as part of the lifestyle enrichment programme for residents and this was one of our favourites!

One resident said “I haven t heard some of these songs in many years The classics never go out of style!

Royal British Legion Care home Invests in Wellbeing Facilities for Residents

Residents at a Royal British Legion care home in Kent are set to benefit from an exciting initiative designed to enhance their independence and improve their quality of life

Maurice House which is run by the Royal British Legion for veterans of the Armed Forces and their dependents and carers, has introduced specialist power-assisted exercise equipment from UK manufacturer Innerva The investment aims to keep residents physically and mentally stimulated promoting their overall wellbeing

Located near the coastal town of Broadstairs Maurice House has 77 residents, who range in age from 64 to 102 Maurice House boasts a vibrant wellbeing programme that operates seven days a week offering a wide range of activities from garden walks and yoga to creative pursuits such as flower arranging trips out and singing groups The residents also enjoy the company of children from the local nursery every week

Manager at the Royal British Legion care home Tracy Tremble spearheaded the launch of the new exercise suite after discovering the Innerva equipment at a care conference The innovative nature of the equipment means residents do not have to rely solely on their muscles to complete the exercises; instead they can adjust the level of assistance according to their fitness and strength The result is an accessible and safe exercise environment for residents of varying abilities

Tracy commented: “The overall focus of Maurice House is to prioritise the happiness and social wellbeing of our residents as we recognise its immeasurable value ”

Recognising the benefits of low-impact exercise for residents mobility and rehabilitation especially for those recovering from strokes, the team was eager to provide an accessible and low-risk physical activity solution RBL Resident occupational therapist Donna Malone and the care home s wellbeing team aim to provide up to three exercise sessions per day for small groups Initially supervised, the sessions will gradual-

ly become independent as residents become more mobile and comfortable with the equipment

The team also plan to develop personalised exercise programmes for residents to suit their unique needs

Funding for the power-assisted equipment was made possible through internal resources including legacies and generous donations from individuals within the home and their families

Innerva equipment has undergone rigorous academic testing against the five elements of healthy ageing: aerobic fitness muscular strength balance flexibility and social wellbeing The equipment is particularly well-suited for older adults individuals with long-term conditions and those who may feel intimidated by traditional gym environments

The Royal British Legion has six care homes across England and this is the second RBL home and the third veteran’s care home in the UK to install to Innerva’s power-assisted equipment

The positive experiences of Maurice House and the other care homes align with research conducted by the University of Stirling Published in 2022, the researchers found that when supported, care home residents were willing to engage with exercise if it improved their health and wellbeing and enhanced opportunities for meaningful interactions with others Following these findings, the researchers have called for physical activity to be embedded into the culture of care homes across the UK

David Heathcote Head of Business Development at Innerva said “Physical activity has significant health and wellbeing benefits for people living in care homes including those with dementia so it s inspiring to see how Maurice House is using power-assisted equipment to make exercise easier and more accessible for residents as well as their staff to enhance their quality of life ”

Maurice House is considering extending the use of the Innerva equipment to relatives of residents to help foster a sense of inclusivity and engagement

Carer Readers Celebrate A

...Margaret Allen House, Ba Say Hello to the Winner of the Carer’

We are delighted to announce that Margaret of our Afternoon Tea week competition for 2023

We are thrilled to say this has become somet we launched Afternoon Tea Week to celebrate o British traditions and, other than perhaps the Lon Afternoon Tea Week better than a residential an stories and photographs we have received demo care sector

All that we asked was for care homes around Week celebrations and send us some photograp

That was it!

We wanted to encourage care homes to tap in delicious treats to help bring a bit of elegance a day”

And you did us proud We were truly overwhe delighted to say! (And it did take us some time t Once again we are sorry we could only pick o The nominations were truly wonderful and inspir and dedication care homes around the country t special occasion!

Cranford Care Home, Aberdeen

Prior y Cour t Care Home, Epsom

Afternoon Tea Week 2023

Afternoon Tea Week Competition…

artows Causeway, Tiverton

Allen House care home, Tiverton is the winner hing of an annual tradition here at THE CARER one of our finest and quintessentially great ndon s Dorchester Hotel, nobody celebrates d nursing care home Trust us, we know! The onstrate just how important this event is in the the country to tell us about their Afternoon Tea phs of your events

nto the British Tradition of afternoon tea and nd pomp to an otherwise “unremarkable time of lmed the nominations we received we are o plough through them all)!

ne winner it was the most difficult of choices rational demonstrating the time effort care ook to make Afternoon Tea Week that extra

Croft House, Shotton Collier y

Lyncroft Care Home in Wisbech

Hummingbird Care Home, Churchinford

Nor folk Lodge Ca

Muir ton House, Blairgowrie

Cwm Celyn Care Home, Blaina

St Clare's Care Home - Lincoln Glentwor th House Nursing Home, Hove

Carer Readers Celebrate A

Dove Cour t Care Home, Seaton

Feather ton House, Deddington

Chandos Lodge, Hagley, Stourbridge

Cheaneycour t, Desborough, Kettering

Brena

Over ton House, Cottingham

River well Beck, Carlisle

Afternoon Tea Week 2023

Ernvale House Care Home, Leek

Kings Lodge Nursing Home, Bosham, Chichester

lwood Care Home, Walton-on-the-Naze

Haslington Lodge Care Home, Greenhithe

Rose Cottage Care Home, Huntingdon

Rowans Care Centre, Macclesfield

Revitalise Respite Holidays

Tickford Abbey Care Home, Newpor t Pagnell

Carer Readers Celebrate A

Thomas Tawell House, Nor wich

Spring Lane Residential Home, Muswell Hill

Stradbroke Cour t Care Home, Lowestoft

Clarendon Lodge Care Home, Rickmanswor th

Thornhill House, Barnsley

Chestnut Lodge, Yeovil

Cringleford Care Home Residents’ Wish To Go On Boat Trip Comes True

Residents at a care home in Cringleford made waves on a boat trip around the Norfolk Broads

Two residents at Care UK s Cavell Court on Dragonfly Lane shared their passion for boats and sailing and asked the home team to help make their wish come true

Keen to relive happy sailing memories from their younger years, John Clark aged 89 and Marion Pearson aged 89 were excited to show off their sailing skills and knowledge of boats The pair were also joined by resident and friend Brenda Burman aged 87 as they took to the water

Having joined the Navy in 1952 John served for seven years and progressed through the ranks to Leading Seaman and Petty Officer One of John’s happiest memories of his time in the Navy was sailing on HMS Harpy from Portsmouth one summer which sparked his wish to be back on the water again

Marion worked as a clerk at the Atomic Weapons Establishment and began sailing with friends outside of work which fuelled her love of being on the water Marion loved the sea so much that she went on to join a sailing club which she was part of for five years After starting a family there was less time for sailing but Marion was keen to get back out on a boat and shared her wish

with the home team

On the day the residents and the team travelled to the Norfolk Broads where John and Marion got the chance to fulfil their wish to take to the waters once again With a love for all things nautical, the pair enjoyed setting sail across the rivers and lakes in the national park

The visit was part of the home s ‘Wishing Tree’ Initiative which encourages residents to put wishes forward allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new – from flying a plane to enjoying a night at the opera no wish is too big or small

Marion said: Sailing is a passion of mine and I absolutely loved my day out at The Broads ”

John added I had an absolutely marvellous day and couldn t stop smiling”

Karen Curle Home Manager at Cavell Court said: Our day trip to the Norfolk Broads was definitely one for the books and the pair were delighted to be making waves once more – there s no doubt we ll still be talking about it for weeks to come”

“We re so pleased we were able to organise this nostalgic trip for John and Marion – the residents were over the moon to have seized this opportunity!

Pawsitively Amazing’ As Care Homes Stage Charity Dog Shows

Prize pooches have gone on parade to delight care home residents across the south and help raise money for charity

Three Colten Care homes have staged friendly summer competitions as fun experiences for residents and families benefiting good causes in the process both human and canine

At Amberwood House in Ferndown Dorset more than a dozen dogs entertained around 50 people with their personalities agility and costumes

Staff and residents families were invited to bring their pets along to enter any or all of ten categories such as ‘Best Dressed’ and ‘Best in Show

Resident and dog lover Inge Liell one of the show judges said:“It was absolutely wonderful a great day ”

Amberwood House Companionship Team Leader Kirsty Richmond Cole said

This was such a happy family-friendly occasion with laughter and smiles all round

Many of our residents love dogs and our fantastic competition showed just why Dogs really help to bring joy and company to people

“Thirteen adorable doggies turned up with their owners to wow the judges It was a pawsitively amazing day

Inge was joined on the judging panel by fellow Amberwood House resident Irene Walton, Colten Care’s

Chief Operating Officer Elaine Farrer and Steve Taylor, Director of Facilities

Amid much laughter, they watched an egg and spoon race in which owners had to run round a circuit without dropping their egg and while keeping their dog on the lead as they went

Judges declared a draw in the ‘Best Dressed’ category the most popular class Joint winners were lion Roly owned by a resident s son, Hayden O Neill, and ‘superhero’ Bertie, owned by the family of resident Pat Fisher

Bertie went on to have a further triumph, being crowned ‘Best in Show

As well as entry fees funds were raised through the sale of dog bandanas and treat jars prepared by Amberwood House residents

The event raised more than £120 for Ferndown Rotary Amberwood House’s charity of the year

Other Colten Care homes staging charity dog shows this summer include Wellington Grange in Chichester and Lymington home Belmore Lodge

The chosen charity for Belmore Lodge the Dogs Trust received a donation of more than £280 after the show there which featured an agility course and prize categories such as ‘Dog with the Waggiest Tail’ and ‘Dog with the Best Coat’ Belmore Lodge resident Louisa MacIntyre said: I watched the whole event and loved every minute The icing on the cake was that my friend’s dog Bubbles won Best in Show ”

Leading Digital Care Planning Platform Nourish Care Integrates with Ally Acoustic Monitoring

Sound and motion detectors will enable Nourish Care to monitor patients at a distance thanks to Ally integration

Nourish Care is to integrate with Ally the acoustic monitoring system which analyses sound and motion in a care home resident s room at night to give information on sleeping habits behaviour and overall health

Using AI algorithms Ally can identify risks help prevent falls and flag any potential health issues such as urinary tract infections

Customers of both platforms will be able to link their systems for in-depth insight into night-time events The integration is an important step towards preventing falls and allowing early detection to deliver more proactive care Any significant events recorded in Ally will automatically appear in Nourish alongside daily care records

Thomas Tredinnick CEO & Co-Founder of Ally said "We are hugely excited to integrate with Nourish as this represents another step forward to help care homes provide better care outcomes Independent assessments by the NHS over the past two years with our existing customers have evidenced that Ally delivers a 55% reduction in falls a 20% reduction in hospital admissions and frees up 40% of nightstaff time By syncing our data with Nourish, care teams will have more time as well as better insights leading to even greater outcomes I m excited to see how together we can push to eliminate falls and preventable hospital admissions as we continue to empower care teams

Nourish Head of Product Steve Lawrence notes We are excited to announce our partnership with Ally

Our aim is to assist care teams in adopting innovative, preventive care models that minimise the risk of falls and enhance care outcomes by linking our two systems By presenting timely and relevant data we will provide greater insight into shared intelligence and enable greater operational efficiencies We are eagerly anticipating seeing the benefits of this partnership for providers and the people they support and collaborating with Ally to further enhance the functionality of our integration and drive innovation ”

Carrie McDonald Clinical safety officer and lead Nourish Care: Falls can have a knock on effect into so many other areas of health and wellbeing and being able to mitigate them as well as predicting trends has a huge impact on our ability to care for an individual Each person receiving care has different risk factors and this partnership is yet another way that Nourish continues to demonstrate commitment to using technology to capture the whole person s experience in a purposeful way

Susan Graham Home Manager at Harleston House said “My whole team uses Nourish and being able to see the Ally events on the Nourish Timeline is really helpful My team has a good understanding of an individual s night time activity which influences the care provided throughout the day This information alongside daily care needs paints a bigger picture ”

Nourish Care is the market leading digital care planning platform that allows care services to record at the point of care streamline administrative processes and equip teams with the tools to provide more person-centred care and improve outcomes for the people they support Nourish works with more than 3 500 care services in the UK and overseas within residential homes, nursing homes, learning disability services, mental health services, and other care and support settings Nourish was one of the first digital care planning technologies recognised as an NHS Transformation Directorate Assured Supplier for the Digital Social Care Records (DSCR) programme at launch and was also the first accredited by the PRSB as a Quality Partner working to promote best practice standards for care

Ally is a resident acoustic monitoring system for care homes Ally’s Resident Monitor uses sensors and AI to monitor care home residents when alone in their rooms at night The system alerts staff instantly when residents require care, freeing staff from time-consuming regular checks that often wake up sleeping residents Supporting over 3 500 residents it has been independently evidenced by the NHS and its customers that Ally releases 40% of staff during the night to deliver care where it is needed; reduces falls by over 55%; and decreases hospital admissions by 20% Integration with Digital Social Care Records further enhances best practice and fosters greater person-centred-care

Carers Set Out Autumn Campaign Strategy

Campaigners have unveiled an autumn plan of action to get politicians to tackle the crisis in the care of vulnerable adults

The Independent Care Group (ICG) plans to target party conference season to press for positive change in social care

ICG Chair Mike Padgham has written to the health teams of the Conservatives and Labour urging them to make social care a priority

The ICG is also offering to share its expertise with politicians as well as preparing its own election manifesto for the General Election and stepping up its lobbying and campaigning activities for the benefit of the sector

Mr Padgham said: “The party conference season offers a golden opportunity for the political parties to show what they plan for the future of social care

We look to them for bold new ideas to support social care tackle the inequalities that currently exist and prepare the sector for an exciting future ”

At its last Board meeting the ICG discussed a key messages document, setting out its strategy for the future

The document said Across the ICG Board and its membership we have many hundreds of years’ experience of delivering exceptional social care to thousands of grateful people and their loved ones – we make that expertise available to politicians and decision makers to shape their future policy

Social care and particularly those who benefit from it do not have a strong voice They deserve to be heard

“Politicians dare not tackle social care because they fear it will be too expensive and they don t believe it is a vote winner They are wrong

“By staying quiet and acquiescent, we are allowing these two situations to continue The ICG will not stay

quiet and perpetuate the view that everything in the garden is rosy when it isn’t We want positive change for the sector

The ICG has already set out its broad wishes in its Five Pillars of Social Care Reform document which has been sent to the Government and to the Labour health team to try and influence their thinking on social care

On 1st August the ICG was a signatory to a campaign by the Yorkshire and The Humber Care Association Alliance to encourage all social care providers to join their local provider group to strengthen the voice of the sector across the region

Mr Padgham added “This demonstrated our belief that as a sector we need to raise our voice stand up and be counted and campaign for social care

We are already a leading partner in that Alliance which is part of the national Care Association Alliance strengthening our voice at the highest level of social care decision making ”

The ICG wants to know how politicians plan to get care to the 1 6m people who currently can t get it; tackle the 152,000 vacancies in the sector; properly recognise and reward the social care workforce with better pay and conditions and find the extra 445 000 care staff the sector will need to cope with rising demand by 2035

The five pillars in the document are:

1 Ring fence a percentage of GDP to be spent on providing social care to those who already receive it and the 1 6m who can t get it

2 Create a unified National Care Service, incorporating health and social care

3 Set a National Minimum Wage per hour for care staff on a par with NHS

4 Set up an urgent social care task force to oversee reform

5 Fix fair price for care tariffs for things like care beds and homecare visits

Mr Padgham added The five pillars document forms the basis of our talks with politicians as we look to influence their thinking in the weeks and months ahead

We will also be developing those five pillars into a manifesto so that we can prepare for the next general election with some clear suggestions and ideas for change ”

The ICG has just added six new directors to strengthen its Board for the future

Care Home Brings Notting Hill Carnival Excitement To High Wycombe

The Home which provides loving compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia, held a carnival barbecue for residents and their relatives on Tuesday 22 August

It took place after veterans at the Home requested an event to help them celebrate the Carnival which will be held on the streets of West London on 27-28 August

The event took place in the Home s stunning gardens with residents making the most of the long-awaited arrival of summer

A steel pan drummer provided entertainment while the Home’s kitchen crew cooked up a mouth-watering barbecue

The event was organised by the Home s dedicated Wellbeing Team, who provide events, exercises, activities and outings for residents Wellbeing Coordinator Alysia said: We are always talking to residents to find out what things they’d like to do, and one asked if we had plans for the Carnival We thought it was a great idea so we brought Notting Hill Carnival to High Wycombe! It was a warm day so residents sat in shady areas or wore hats and they had plenty to drink to keep hydrated They had a wonderful time and enjoyed sharing the day with their loved-ones and other members of staff

Notting Hill Carnival fun has come to Royal Star & Garter in High Wycombe

Taking Care of Fire Safety

By Rob Yates, Head of Building Products Fire Safety in the UK & Ireland for Siemens (www siemens co uk)

All buildings have their own specific requirements in terms of fire safety and risk assessments are the primary method of ensuring that a fire alarm system meets those needs Care homes are no different although the nature of the elderly occupants and their mobility issues need to be a particular focus in selecting an appropriate method of protecting the occupants and the care home itself from the threat of fire

In the majority of buildings evacuation plans are a core element of fire safety procedures and while this is also true of a care home the fact that it may be impossible to evacuate some of the residents has a direct impact on the requirements outlined in the respective standards In BS5839-1, for example, the following clauses need to be considered:

If occupants need assistance from staff to escape and there are more than 10 sleeping persons the system should be addressable

Residential care premises should be provided with automatic connection to Alarm Receiving Centres (ARC)

• Signals to Alarm Receiving Centres cannot be delayed from residential care homes

ADDRESSING THE SPECIFICS

Given all of the above, it is easy to appreciate that early detection of a fire incident is particularly important in a care home Many care homes operate with older conventional fire alarm systems Picking up on the first point these need to be upgraded to addressable systems to enable the location of an incident to be identified quickly In doing so it is important to consider the options in terms of cost implications associated with this migration Some systems will require replacement of not only the devices but also reconfiguration of the wiring into a loop Others do not, thereby offering considerable savings in installation costs

The ability to identify the location of an incident quickly can be further enhanced through powered floor repeater panels, allowing the situation to be reviewed without needing to go to the location of the main fire panel The ever-increasing use of cloud-based technology (see final paragraph) can take this a stage further with apps available which allow monitoring of fire safety on a mobile phone

In many applications delays in sending a fire alarm signal to an ARC are often deliberate to allow time to investigate to see if it is a false alarm or of a scale that can be tackled safely with a fire extinguisher However as is clearly stated in the British Standard this is not the case in a care home

Turning to the issue of false alarms as indicated in the extract from BS5839-1 the requirement is for a maximum of 1 false alarm per 20 detectors annually Obviously, zero false alarms is an even better scenario in an application where an alarm can cause panic, confusion and considerable disruption Systems are now available which will provide a guarantee of no false alarms with multi-criteria detection technology which detects a fire incident quickly without being impacted by deceptive phenomena such as toasters or steam Crucial to this is drift compensation whereby the sensitivity of the detector is automatically adjusted to reflect the build-up of dust or dirt without importantly affecting response times

CLOUD-BASED TECHNOLOGY

Increasingly, as in so many of our day-to-day activities, the internet and the cloud are becoming pivotal in the latest fire detection solutions Digitalisation has made significant advances in terms of ease of use of fire safety systems User interfaces are becoming ever more graphics-based with the swipe click drag and drop approach so familiar from our mobile phones

Online portals can provide an overview of a care home s fire safety or for those organisations operating a number of facilities across all connected sites Multi-site dashboards can provide locations of all sites in one place, with a status bar indicating the respective status of each in real-time, with a simple colour-coded approach to identify sites where problems may be occurring

Interoperability is a phrase that has been around now for some time in terms of building management systems and it is gathering momentum as digitalisation increases This is the potential to connect multiple systems which can then compliment each other An example would be a CCTV camera able to zoom in on a fire location or record the operation of a call point while a lift can report return status or louvres can be automatically activated in the event of an alarm activation to aid smoke ventilation

Care homes offer their own specific challenges in terms of fire safety By understanding those challenges and adopting a fire safety approach which reflects them residents and the buildings themselves can be effectively protected

Hull Care Home Refurb Sets a New Standard for Dementia Care

A Yorkshire-based social care group continues to invest in its care homes as it develops a broader portfolio of personalised services to meet the changing needs of users

HICA Group recently invested more than £600 000 in a major refurbishment of The Hollies, based in Hessle, Hull

The investment marks a significant milestone in the future provision of dementia care redefining the traditional care home model

The care home now provides a model of care that can be adapted to enhance the quality of life for residents in various other HICA care settings including residential and nursing care homes, home care and supported living which is part of the Group s long term strategic plan

The renovations at The Hollies care home, which started in August 2022, include the addition of two new residential suites The Hessle Suite comprises eight deluxe residential studio apartments and The Tranby Suite, a pioneering female-only living community which caters for the specific needs and preferences of female residents The enhancements also include a fresh look reception seating area hairdressing salon and bistro

Terry Peel CEO at the not-for-profit HICA Group said “This is not only a significant moment for HICA Group but for dementia care provision overall

“Our new female only suite is particularly significant and reflects the highly bespoke and personalised care HICA Group provides “A female only care provision acknowledges the unique needs, experiences and challenges faced by

female residents with dementia

Single gender care signals a big step towards a much more tailored and supportive environment for our residents, helping to reduce agitation or behavioural issues more prevalent to living in a mixed gender setting and improve their quality of life

This renovation exemplifies our dedication to creating innovative resident-centered environments that combine modern luxury with personalised care within a homely environment

I must thank everyone that s been involved in the project – I m confident the investment will provide a step forward in the approach to and application of dementia care

The Hollies caters for 43 residents in total, with The Hessle Suite providing care for eight residents The Humber Suite accommodating 18 residents and the all-female Tranby Suite providing care for 17 female residents

Terry said: The Hollies represents a vision of the future care home where modern luxury is combined with high quality personalised and compassionate care

“Our renovations have created a unique environment that reflects the evolving needs and preferences of people requiring residential and dementia care in today s world driving up standards of care provision across the sector

We re now looking to emulate the care provision provided at The Hollies especially in terms of dementia care, across our other care services where we believe it’ll prove successful ”

Blueleaf Launches New Product Guide to Show Latest Innovation in Care Beds & Pressure Care Mattress Design

Blueleaf Care the nationwide business that helps care homes deliver better outcomes, has released a new product guide for its range of care beds and pressure care mattresses to help care providers choose the most suitable beds and mattresses for their residents

Publication of the guide follows the work Blueleaf has been undertaking with bed and mattress manufacturers designing and innovating new solutions to add to its portfolio in line with its commitment to ‘lead the way’ and find new and imaginative ways of solving old problems

Its collection of care beds consists of eight products, each with key features to accommodate the specific needs of care home residents All beds for example have adjustable heights - the ‘Ultra Low Floorbed’ goes as low as 67mm off floor level – to improve accessibility for residents with limited mobility and to minimise the risk of injury in the event of a fall

Blueleaf works with the bed manufacturers to ensure that the beds also support the carers to give the best care An adjustment in the bed design for example means that when purchased with a Blueleaf mattress, beds do not require a third rail and still meet industry regulations for rail to mattress height This also saves time in an environment where time is a rare commodity, and supports improved health and safety as they are not having to remove and install the rail each time

Other features include a lockable handset and a range of upholstery options Various wood finishes are also available for a design tailored to every individual room With ease and efficiency in mind all beds have a tool-less assembly removing the need for specialist equipment; and they use standard components meaning that they re easy to fix should they require repairs; and many components are simply plug and play connections

Additionally, Blueleaf’s collection of pressure care mattresses provide a vital solution to another widely prevalent challenge in care homes: the prevention cure and treatment of pressure ulcers The collection

comprises the SXM range of static mattresses and the Easy Care range of dynamic mattresses, with the latter also featuring a cushion system and multifunctional pumps The collection also includes the Integra-mat which is exclusive to Blueleaf and can be used as a static or fully dynamic mattress, and the Pressureguard which is a mattress system with adjustable height air cells to achieve zero pressure

Each product contains various features that make them suitable for a wide range of residents with grade 1-4 pressure ulcers The collection also delivers a range of benefits for carers For instance, the highly advanced pump system automatically weighs the resident and adjusts mattress pressure accordingly removing the need for manual weight input and individual pressure adjustment

Nick Frogbrook CEO of Blueleaf says that its range of beds and mattresses is yet another way in which

Blueleaf is striving to identify and resolve the challenges affecting care homes: “Each care home resident will have a specific set of physical challenges that deserves a tailored solution he explains

“We are proud of how closely we work with our manufacturers, and how we’re able to use our collective experience and knowledge of care homes when designing care equipment It is the team s dedication to supporting carers to give the best care that results in updated products which are seen in our extensive range of beds and mattresses We know how important it is for care home providers to have a range of options when choosing the most appropriate equipment for each resident and in doing so deliver a better quality of care We also know how important it is not just to keep pace with innovation but actually be ahead of the curve to improve outcomes for every member of staff resident and family member

To download more information on Blueleaf’s range of beds and mattresses or to book a meeting, visit: www blueleafcare com/our-services/products/care-home-equipment/care-beds-and-pressure-care-mattresses

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

Southern Contracts - Commercial Laundr y & Catering Appliances

SOUTHERN Contracts is one of the UK s leading suppliers of industrial laundry, catering and commercial cleaning equipment

We work with many local and national care and nursing homes hotels restaurants, holiday parks, cruise lines, offshore platforms, marine companies and local authorities the NHS the MoD as well as schools and colleges

Founded in 1964 to initially supply and maintain commercial laundry equipment we are now in our third generation and still very much a family run business We are proud to have become a global supplier of not only laundry equipment, but with knowledge gleaned over the years, we are also a go-to company for professional kitchen appliances and commercial cleaning equipment,

keeping disruption to a minimum for our clients, whilst covering all aspects of delivery installation customer training ongoing maintenance service and repair

We hold many accreditations for safety and service excellence, providing peace of mind to our existing and potential customers

For more information regarding our services for :

Forbes Receives High Profile Recognition for their Sustainable Rental Solutions

Forbes Professional has recently garnered high-profile recognition for their commitment to sustainability and exceptional customer service A national provider of sustainable rental options for commercial laundry provision, Forbes Professional has been honoured with the prestigious Best Independent Retailer - Sustainability Award at the IER (Independent Electrical Retailer) Awards Forbes also received high commendation for its dedication to customer service, further solidifying its position as a leader in the industry

In an era where environmental responsibility is paramount rental presents itself as a more sustainable procurement solution than outright purchase supporting the circular economy and enabling multi-phase product cycles Forbes consultants work with clients

Girbau UK Launches Under Counter Washer and Dr yer Models

Well known for its robust commercial and industrial laundry equipment Girbau UK has launched its first professional grade Under Counter washers and dryers that fit underneath standard 900mm height counters Both machines combine energy efficiency ease of use and compact size with high quality durable construction making them ideal for a wide range of applications including care and nursing homes

The new Under Counter washer s strong stainless steel Active Drum™ design has hourglass lifters that guide loads to gentler central areas for better load balance and reduced wear on delicate items A 180-degree open-

ing door makes the machine easier to load and unload from a basket It is available with a choice of 6kg or 8kg capacity with either a pump or gravity drain

Quiet long-life operation is assured thanks to the washer s sturdy Quattro™ construction with durable shock absorbers that allow virtually vibration-free high-speed spinning Rather than cheap concrete counterweights the washer features cast iron stabilisers for higher spin speeds better water extraction and increased spin efficiency

The washer features an easy-to-use liquid crystal display user interface It features 28 flexible programs three of which are customisable as well as disinfection mop microfibre and allergy settings It also comes with in-built service diagnostics The delayed start function can be used to plan ahead and set machines to run off-peak to optimise use of cheaper energy tariffs

The new Under Counter dryer can also be stacked on top of the washer to save floor space The 6kg capacity model is available in both condenser and vented versions and the 8kg capacity model is vented The Sensi Dry system automatically determines the right drying time saving energy and assuring fabric care Its convenient auto programs save energy as the running time is automatically adjusted according to load size and the required dryness

Butterfly drying ™ tumbling in a figure of eight movement non-stop in one direction stops clothes from bundling and ensures long life durability of the motor and belt The efficient lint filter has an automatic indicator to remind users to clean it for optimum energy efficiency and safety

The dryer’s memory function remembers the last program used including any chosen settings so if nothing needs to change, you can simply press start for the next load

The new Girbau under counter washer and dryer are now available to order from Girbau UK www girbau com

Preser ving Identity and Preventing Loss:

Cash's Apparel Solutions' Centur y-Long Legacy

Cash's Apparel Solutions has been at the forefront of manufacturing woven nametapes for over a century, serving the nursing home sector and beyond Their nametapes have become synonymous with preserving identity, preventing lost garments and delivering personalised identity items and gifts

Preserving dignity Cash s woven nametapes provide a simple yet effective solution to labelling clothing in nursing homes minimising distress caused by lost garments, fostering an environment where residents are seen and respected for who they are Cash s has earned a global reputation for reliability and quality Their woven nametapes are sold and utilised worldwide serving as a testament to their effectiveness

In addition, Cash s Apparel Solutions goes beyond their renowned nametapes Their expertise in weaving and personalisation allows them to create a diverse range of identity items and gifts From personalized badges to custom keyrings and promotional products Cash s demonstrates their versatility in

meeting unique customer needs By offering tailored solutions, they celebrate individuality, making a significant contribution to the spirit of personalisation and fostering a sense of belonging

A Century of Excellence: Cash s century-long presence in the industry showcases their enduring commitment to excellence They have adapted and innovated, embracing modern technology and evolving customer demands Cash s unwavering dedication to their craft and the nursing home sector demonstrates their genuine concern for residents well-being and comfort

In conclusion, Cash s has established itself as a leader in manufacturing woven nametapes, personalised identity items and gifts With their century-long legacy of quality, reliability, and attention to detail Cash s continues to make a significant impact in the nursing home sector and beyond By preserving identity preventing loss, and embracing personalisation, Cash s Apparel Solutions truly embodies their commitment to enhancing safety dignity and individuality in care facilities worldwide

Visit www cashslabels com

DYSPHAGIA AND CATERING

Food Cost Savings During High Inflation? allmanhall Make It Possible.

Taylor & Taylor a group of family-owned residential care homes approached food procurement experts allmanhall looking to achieve scalable cost savings and efficiencies to support their growth 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 food cost savings of 11 4% - more than double the initial objective! A few months into the contract allmanhall undertook further analysis and the real-life saving is actually 18% On the multi-temp category allmanhall have in fact delivered savings of 21 4% in a time of 17%+ food inflation!

Proactive buy right recommendations from allmanhall will deliver an extra 2 9% saving Protein savings and an ABL have also been proposed to drive further value

allmanhall have implemented industry-leading catering controls technology providing the homes with tools such as stock taking and standing orders Central billing is also a big win with allmanhall consolidating all supplier invoices into just one invoice per month, per home

From the start everything has been expertly managed and the transition has been fully supported:

I would wholeheartedly recommend allmanhall s services to others in the care sector and I look forward to continuing to grow our offering and provide outstanding food for our residents – Chris Rees, Group Executive Chef Why not let allmanhall support your food procurement? They will deliver savings reassurance and efficiencies allmanhall will give you more time to focus on your residents and on addressing labour challenges See

The NACC Care Chef of the Year 2023 Finalists Announced

After some particularly challenging heats the line-up of care chefs set to compete in the national final of the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) Care Chef of the Year 2023 competition has been announced

In June, regional heats were held across the NACC Regions –Midlands, South East Scotland, North, South West and Wales – with care chefs demonstrating that they can compete with the best when it comes to culinary skills The prize is to represent their region in the national final scheduled to take place on 3rd October 2023

Once again this year s lead judge was Steve Munkley Vice President of Craft Guild of Chefs who attended each region to ensure continuity The chefs had to demonstrate to the judges their full understanding of the meals they are providing for their residents whilst introducing their own flair through contemporary flavours

The finalists who intend to impress the judges one more time include:

• Nigel Cooke – Eastcote Park Cinnamon Care Collection

Alex Millichamp – Chandler Court Care UK

• Chris Mattinson – Sycamore Court, Caterplus/Elior

Brian Preston – RBL Lister House – Royal British Legion

• Jessica Vreede – Guthrie House, Four Seasons Health Care

Graham Watson – Lauder Lodge Care UK

• Kasia Hab-Bialkowska – Highmarket House Care Home, Care UK

Chris Mitchley – St John’s House, Castlemeadow Care

Darren Nelson – Trymview Hall Care Home Care UK

Daniel Bree Hartwood House Cinnamon Care

Alex Connell Vegetarian for Life

Dav d Sharp Signature for Barnet Signature Care

The ninety-minute regional heat focused on the importance of food nutrition and positive mealtime experiences as part of quality care entrants are challenged to create an appealing and delicious twocourse menu (main and dessert) appropriate for people in a care setting The combined food cost for both courses should be no more than £3 50 per head based on three portions and it must be nutritionally balanced The menu must also feature at least one product from Unilever Food Solutions’ sector-relevant catering range

Lead Judge Steve Munkley said: “I have been incredibly pleased with the standards I have seen so far

This is a really important competition that shows highlights the skills within the care sector ”

Sue Cawthray National Chair of the NACC said Congratulations to the finalists of the NACC Care Chef of the Year competition 2023! The calibre of entries for this competition continues to be incredibly high and we have seen exceptional dishes created and served by chefs across the regional heats The finalists should be immensely proud of their efforts so far I know that they will want to impress the judges in October

DYSPHAGIA AND CATERING

Groundbreaking ProjectFIT IDDSI Drinks Solution: Revolutionizing Dysphagia Care in the UK

Refreshment Systems Limited (RSL) introduces the ProjectFIT IDDSI drinks solution catering to individuals living with dysphagia – a swallowing disorder affecting around 8% of the UK population Dysphagia can significantly impact a person s quality of life affecting nutrition hydration and social interactions RSL s innovative push-button solution provides hope and convenience to patients and caregivers/clinicians alike

Collaborating with colleagues in Belgium through Bravilor the ProjectFIT team developed a cutting-edge counter-top machine that delivers a range of hot and cold beverages with various flavours customized to specific IDDSI levels By automating the preparation process the solution ensures each drink is consistently prepared offering patients the preferred beverage without unexpected variations

The adherence to strict IDDSI guidelines guarantees the appropriate viscosity and texture for safe swallowing reducing the risk of choking or aspiration The automated process streamlines preparation saving valuable resources and allowing caregivers/clinicians to focus on patient care The elimination of manual preparation results in cost and labour benefits making it a financially viable option for healthcare providers

An essential feature of the ProjectFIT IDDSI drinks is their amylase-resistant properties, maintaining the desired viscosity throughout consumption, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for patients

The solution offers a wide range of exciting flavours, including Orange Apple & Peach, Lemon Tea, Coffee, and Tea, encouraging patients to stay hydrated and maintain proper nutrition RSL and ProjectFIT plan to introduce even more flavours in the future expanding the range of enjoyable and safe beverages for individuals with dysphagia

With over 50 years of experience in coffee vending and providing solutions to the UK Care Home NHS and Private Healthcare markets RSL is a trusted leader in the industry The introduction of the ProjectFIT IDDSI drinks solution reinforces their dedication to enhancing the lives of dysphagia patients and caregivers/clinicians

The future of dysphagia catering in the UK looks brighter than ever before thanks to the groundbreaking ProjectFIT IDDSI drinks solution from RSL Focused on consistency safety and enjoyment this innovative solution promises to improve the overall quality of life for individuals with dysphagia marking a significant advancement in dysphagia care

Search for RSL Vending or contact us using details below

www refreshmentsystems co uk 0800 169 3686 info@refreshmentsystems co uk

Anglia Crown - Popular Dishes for Ever yone

Anglia Crown offer a wide range of hot and cold desserts that are ideal for a wellbalanced nutritional diet including choices that do not contain gluten Our Crown Choice and Advantage ranges include some fifty-eight dishes including our new warming Ginger Chocolate Chip Sponge and delicious comforting custard that goes with almost any hot dessert

Our Crown Choice cold dessert includes the perennial favourites such as Chocolate Cake whilst our Crown Advantage range also offer reduced sugar desserts All individual Crown Advantage desserts come in packs of eighteen whilst the Crown Choice desserts come in packs of 3 and 6 allowing accurate portioning and cutting down on any potential waste

Many of the Anglia Crown dishes can be teamed up with fresh fruit, allowing for additional choice Items such as our Carrot Cake or Vanilla Cheesecake can be accompanied by whipped cream, garnished with seasonal fresh fruit

Our hot desserts are high in energy our hot portions of 170kcal and above provide energy and protein dense

options and when served with custard provide over 250 kcal per serving Our cold desserts of 250 kcal and above also meet the energy guidelines in the British Dietetic Association (BDA) Nutrition and Hydration Digest (2017) requirements

VEGAN SUITABLE CHOICES

At Anglia Crown we pride ourselves with the array of vegetarian and gluten free dishes that we offer including an impressive range of desserts This was recognised with us being named at the Vegetarian Wholesaler of the Year 2022 at the VfL Awards for Excellence in Veg n Care

Catering

All the Anglia Crown hot desserts are suitable for vegetarians Most of the Anglia Crown vegan products have been registered with the Vegan Society including some thirteen of the dessert dishes ”

Anglia Crown are here to help take the strain out of your menus throughout the year Visit

CLEANING AND HYGIENE

Omnitex Hygiene Products Angloplas Dispensers Help Reduce the Risk of Cross Infection

Omnitex represents all round protection and hygiene products Launched in 2015 it has quickly become a brand synonymous with high quality used everyday by thousands of individuals and healthcare facilities throughout the UK and Europe All products are manufactured in ISO9001 and ISO13485 certified facilities

Omnitex Biodegradable wipes are made of 100% plant based materials extra thick and extra large in size for a refreshing and eco-friendly body cleanse Soft-feel plant fibres with herbal extracts and vitamins to nourish the skin

Microwaveable for a warm and luxurious body cleanse

Ideal thickness for a soft feel and comfort Extra Large size wipes to reduce number of wipes required to clean entire body

Plastic Free wipes and 100% Recylable packaging 100% Plant based fibres used in producing the wipes

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 healthcare-associated 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 by going to www angloplas co uk

Swiftclean Support for Care Homes

Running a care home presents plenty of challenges some of which it is wise to outsource to an experienced and reputable specialist

Swiftclean is a family owned nationwide business We specialise in air and water hygiene compliance with a particular emphasis on ventilation duct cleaning kitchen extract fire safety cleaning fire damper drop testing laundry extract cleaning and commercial building water systems Swiftclean has been and continues to be invaluable to general managers and facilities managers of care homes and can provide a package of services giving you peace of mind and value for money

Our specialist teams work in accordance with BSEN15780 and TR19® for ventilation cleaning; L8 and HTM-04-01 for water management; TR19® Grease for kitchen extract fire safety cleaning; and BS 9999 for fire dampers;

these are the industry standards which are recognised as key in each specialist area

With all our services excellent work is only half the story In the event of an inspection you will need to be able to demonstrate that your care home is compliant; it won’t be enough for you to know that it is We provide all the required documentation including before and after photographs and post clean and maintenance reports so you can be sure that your service users are safe and you are protected from any liability for negligence

Contact us now to book in your free care home assessment on 0800 243 471 or email info@swiftclean co uk www swiftclean co uk

AND HYGIENE

Wipertec - Hygenic Wipes for Care

With over 25 years experience of manufacturing both dry wipes and wet wipes to ISO9001 standards, Wipertec offer both our own established brands and customer own private label

At Wipertic we recognise that if there’s one thing that is vital in care home environments it’s cleanliness!

Elderly residents become more prone to infection and illness and are not as resilient as they once were, which is why they are more disposed to the spread of infections

Furthermore a clean hygienic care home is not only vital for resident safety but also important in terms of aesthetic appeal a clean environment helps to foster a positive caring environment where residents feels safe and their loved ones assured With respect to residents personal hygiene one of the most crucial responsibilities that care home staff perform is ensuring and maintaining the personal cleanliness of residents

Correct cleaning minimises the danger of illness and infection enhances the resident’s overall health and wellbeing helping to keep them happier by increasing their sense of pride and dignity When bathing patients wipes are among the most regularly used items for incontinence care or general cleansing assisting in the safe and complete cleaning of residents in a comfortable manner

We at Wipertec can provide an extensive range of formats such as single sachet individual wipes packs canisters and buckets

Our products can be seen globally across a wide variety of sectors such as healthcare industrial retail education and many more

With the efficient service we provide, we like to think of ourselves as another valued member of your own team!

We would love to hear from you!

For any further information you require and to see our comprehensive range please visit us at www wipertecltd co uk

edencleen from Cleenol

Over the course of our history we at Cleenol have always produced products that offer a perfect balance between cleaning performance and efficiency with an attention to reducing the environmental impact that our products may carry edencleen, our latest brand, reaffirms our commitment to our credentials for environmental guardianship and represents an evolution of what has been an integral part of our DNA Edencleen has been designed to reflect in part our vision for a cleaner safer world that touches not only the environmental aspects of sustainability, but has as an aim, a social ambition to leave the planet in the safe care of and for future generations As such with edencleen, Cleenol looks to ensure transparency in our approach which may on occasion result in some counter intuitive elements

The range covers the essential needs to cover 80% of daily cleaning and include: a washroom cleaner and toilet gel cleaner and urinal deodoriser, an all-purpose surface sanitiser, a degreaser and a washing up liquid a no rinse floor degreaser a window cleaner and a laundry detergent and fabric softener edencleen products have been developed around the following principles and ingredients

• RSPO certified palm oil derivatives

No animal derived products

• Cruelty free

• Minimal petrochemical derived products

No parabens formaldehyde CMI/MIT triclosan phosphates chlorine bleaches optical brighteners quaternary ammonium compounds

VOC free and phosphate EDTA NTA free

Recyclable / recycled packaging

• 100% bio-based surfactant - made by using bio-based ethylene oxide which is manufactured from biomass ethanol

• Bioethanol, naturally derived acids, sugar-based surfactants, bio-based solvents low impact preservatives

Combining carefully formulated products, with appropriate packaging using recycled material or recyclable componentry the range’s mostly colourless liquid and low fragrance usage are designed to convey a transparency and straightforwardness of our approach which will be a hallmark of all edencleen products and associated services

Careful use of enzymatic formulations and more traditional chemistry brings a portfolio of products that’s finely attuned to delivering effective cleaning which when used as instructed helps maintain a neutral environmental impact edencleen s new range represents just the start to a fully refreshed solution to meet the most demanding of customers expectations

See the advert below for further information

•

With over 25 years experience of manufacturing both dry wipes and wet wipes to ISO9001 standards.

Mylux Dry Wipes

•

•

• Stronger and Thicker

• General Cleaning

Mylux Skin Wet Wipes

• Luxury wipes range, ideal for use on sensitive skin

• Polyester/ viscose spunlace fabric material

• Absorbent with a superior silky soft feel

MACERATABLE

• Designed for use in macerator systems

• Made from cellulose based airlaid paper

• Ultra absorbent, strong both wet and dry

We can provide an extensive range of formats such as single sachet individual wipes, packs, canisters and buckets.

We offer both our own established brands and customer own private label.

Our products can be seen globally across a wide variety of sectors such as healthcare, industrial, retail, education and many more.

BIOCOMP

• Biodegradable & Compostable dry wipe

• Plastic free and Eco Friendly

• Very absorbent

MULTIPURPOSE

Colour Coded Cleaning wipes for infection control

• 50% Viscose, much higher absorbency than industry standard fabric

Mylux Surface Wet Wipes

AQUASURF

Water based disinfection wipes

• Antibacterial & Antiviral (plus Coronavirus)

• Strong polypropelene fabric

• Ocean fresh fragrance

DETCARE

• Detergent cleaning wipes

• Perfect for general surface cleaning

• Strong polypropelene fabric

• Ocean fresh fragrance

BIOSKIN

• Biodegradable wet wipes range

• Very strong

MACSKIN

• Made from cellulose based airlaid paper

The efficient service we provide we like to think of ourselves as another valued member of your own team.

BIOSURF

• Biodegradable wet wipes range

• Plastic free and eco friendly

• Lemon Fragrance

SCRUB & CLEAN

• Technical abrasive fabric

• Antibacterial & Antiviral (plus Coronavirus)

• Degreasing formulation

• Lemon Fragrance

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

New Lines Added To Our Favourite Chamonix Designs

Skopos has more than 50 years’ specialist experience in the design and manufacture of high-performance FR contract fabrics for the care sector

As a key part of many care-home schemes our Chamonix upholstery fabrics provide a durable and stylish solution to contract furniture in demanding environments For 2023 we are launching our follow-on collection: Chamonix Deuxième brings a new colour story to contract upholstery A fresh influx of these three well-loved upholstery fabric designs Chamonix Deuxième provides even greater choice With 38 new Skus each design works beautifully alone or in combination, to create simple, contemporary and stylish contract

C&S Seating Ltd

C&S Seating Ltd have provided postural control equipment to residential homes hospices medical equipment services and NHS trust hospitals nationwide since 1991

With 9 different sizes of T-Rolls and Log Rolls in a removable and machine washable Waterproof Titex or Soft Knit material These rolls are used to control posture and position of the body in either supine or side lying Our Knee & Leg support wedges are available in 2 sizes

C&S Seating Ltd is the sole manufacturer of the Alternative Positioning Support – also available in two sizes which has removable side cushions and

BIOFROST

middle pommel for when more control of the abducted lower limb is required

Our popular and vibrant range of Soft Knit covers in a choice of 5 colours provide a softer alternative ideal for the colder seasons and are designed to fit snug over our waterproof rolls for maximum protection and comfort

Contact us on 01424 853331 or visit www candsseating co uk to request or download a brochure pricelist or order form request an individualised quotation speak to an advisor or to place an order See the advert on page 5

MOWOOT II for Life Free from Constipation

MOWOOT II is a groundbreaking non-invasive and non-pharmacological solution to chronic constipation

Developed by a team of doctors and other healthcare professionals, the MOWOOT II performs gentle abdominal massage that speeds up intestinal transit in people suffering with chronic constipation

Clinically proven safe and effective easy to use relaxing and side-effects free the MOWOOT II Abdominal Massage Therapy System combats constipation allowing the sufferers to enjoy the freedom of a healthy life

Easy to use and comfortable MOWOOT II treats and manages chronic constipation in people with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson s Disease patients and when constipation is caused by drugs and pharmacological interventions MOWOOT II also helps people combat idiopathic chronic constipa-

tion such as suffered by menopausal and postmenopausal women and the older and elderly people

In clinical studies

MOWOOT II was found to increase evacuation frequency, soften stools, improve regularity reduce gasses and bloating and relieve abdominal discomfort

Just 10 to 20 minutes per day of relaxing abdominal massage therapy with MOWOOT II produces noticeable improvements Significant results are experienced few days after the first treatment Regular applications ensure lasting improvements and better quality of life

MOWOOT II – the effective solution to chronic constipation and the way to a healthier life!

For more information, contact Win Health Medical Ltd - 01835 864866 - www win-health com

See the advert on page 3 for further details

furniture pieces In an extensive palette ranging from staple neutrals to fashion-led brights colours can be selected and combined to fit with any chosen project scheme Orelle Marmotte and Slalom are provided with Crib 5 Flame Retardant backing soil and stain resist finish and a waterproof layer and meet the requirements for severe contract situations with 50 000 Martindale rubs offering a beautiful choice for any contract interior

The collection meets the requirements for Flame Retardancy standards across the UK and Europe, and meets IMO standards with the added benefit of the MED wheelmark for marine/cruise-line interiors Available immediately with short lead-times for larger order quantities Skopos are pleased to add this collection into their Accents range For a copy of our Chamonix Deuxième shade-card pls contact our customer service team: sales@skopos co uk or for free samples of Chamonix Deuxième or any of our collections, visit our website www skoposfabrics com or see page 5 for details

Cold Therapy Gels for Drug-Free Pain Relief

BIOFROST® Cold Therapy

Gels are natural drug-free topical cold therapy gels for muscular and joint pain chronic arthritic pain postactivity muscle tension, general aches and overuse disorders Easy to use and fast acting, BIOFROST® Cold Therapy Gels relieve pain, reduce inflammation

BIOFROST® Relief provides instant pain relief and activates body’s own healing through an optimal combination of natural ingredients, including ethanol, menthol, eucalyptus, peppermint and

MSM Reported benefits of BIOFROST® Relief include lasting pain relief, improved joint movements comfort during sleep fewer cramps calmed nerve pain reduced joint and muscle discomfort and faster post-activity recoveries

T: 01835 864864866 / E: info@win-health com

/

W: www win-health com

See the advert on page 3 and the front cover

Yeoman Shield Fire Door Ser vices Taking the Guess Work out of Fire Doors

Fire Doors are an imperative part of fire safety and are considerations of the design and maintenance of any building but especially residential Article 17 –RRFSO states fire safety provisions (includes fire doors) must be maintained in a suitable condition order

If you are the Responsible Person, it s imperative you appoint a competent person to assist in meeting your duties under the fire safety order to ensure fire safety measures including fire doors are kept in working order Yeoman Shield’s Fire Door Services can help to take the guess work out of fire door maintenance by providing fire door inspections condition reports remedial work and fire door installation all carried out by FDIS and/or FIRAS accredited team members

Having a good maintenance routine will dispel some needs of fire door replacement therefore being more cost effective

ation of Yeoman Shield Fire ction products can also be in the long term financially beneficial by halting impact damage from the start eliminating many repairs in the future and again will extend door lifecycles Installing Yeoman Shield door protection products such as door protection panels, door edge protectors and PVCu glazing bead units will not affect the integrity of the fire door as all products have been tested, in situ to the current standard required Vulnerable frames and architraves can also be protected from impact with Yeoman Shield to prevent dangerous splintering and splitting as well as abolishing the time-consuming repetitive need for repainting

For a complete repair and protect service contact the team today frdp@yeomanshield com or visit www yeomanshield com or see the advert page 10

B-Sure Recycling Launches Waste Management Company

THE COMPLETE RECYCLING SOLUTION FOR ALL YOUR BUSINESS WASTE

B-Sure Installations a leading UK installation company for the care home and healthcare sector in the UK

The Leicestershire-based company has recently invested over £70k to launch a new waste management company B-Sure Recycling

The new enterprise helps customers many of which include residential care homes reach mounting waste management targets by providing a complete collection and recycling service of all types of business waste

How we manage waste is a huge environmental and business concern for the healthcare sector Reaching recycling targets through circular economy solutions are a significant part of environmental goals for the care industry explains Ross

Chambers Managing Director B-Sure Installations

THE COMPLETE

facilities Metal waste is collated wood-based waste is broken down and separated and plastic waste is granulated and bagged The recycled materials are then provided to B-Sure partners who create it into new products such as mats play areas PVC windows toys and many more new products Some items such as office furniture if they are in good condition are refurbished or resized so that they can be reused placing them back into the circular economy

THE COMPLETE CIRCULAR ECONOMY RECYCLING SOLUTION

B-Sure experts can provide an outline of the recycling process end to end and businesses who want to book the recycling

We provide all the tools equipment and advice of how to make the most of the new service for the benefit of the business and the environment with minimal disruption and mess https://bsureinstallations com/

ENHANCING RESIDENT WELL-BEING: THE POWER OF INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT

and intuitive touchscreens these tables offer an inclusive and accessible platform for individuals of all abilities to engage in various activities

2. MENTAL HEALTH AND SENSORY STIMULATION: Engaging residents in interactive entertainment not only stimulates their minds but also contributes significantly to their mental health and emotional well-being Interactive tables provide opportunities for sensory stimulation as residents can explore vibrant visual displays listen to soothing music, and interact with tactile elements Such immersive experiences have been shown to alleviate stress reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall mood

player games or group activities residents can connect with others foster meaningful relationships, and form a sense of belonging within the care home community

In today s fast-paced world the role of technology in improving the quality of life for individuals of all ages cannot be underestimated This is especially true in the context of adult social care where the integration of interactive entertainment has proven to be a game-changer for resident well-being mental health and sensory stimulation Care and nursing homes across the UK have recognized the immense benefits of incorporating interactive tables into their facilities revolutionizing the way residents engage with technology foster cognitive skills promote exercise, and create an atmosphere of fun, laughter, and enjoyment for both staff and residents

1 TECHNOLOGY AS A GATEWAY TO RESIDENT WELLBEING: Gone are the days when technology was seen as a barrier to socialization and human connection Interactive tables have emerged as a powerful tool in bridging the digital divide and enhancing the overall well-being of care home residents With easy-to-use interfaces

3. IMPROVING COGNITIVE SKILLS: Interactive entertainment offers an exciting and interactive way to boost residents cognitive skills Games and applications specifically designed for older adults help enhance memory problem-solving abilities and critical thinking From brain teasers to puzzles residents can engage in intellectually stimulating activities that keep their minds sharp and active The versatility of interactive tables allows for the easy customization and introduction of new applications as residents' needs evolve

4. PROMOTING EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL WELL-BEING:

Physical activity is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regardless of age Interactive tables can play a vital role in encouraging residents to engage in light exercises and movements Through games that involve physical gestures or virtual fitness classes residents can enjoy a fun and interactive way to stay active and improve their physical well-being

5. COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT: Loneliness and social isolation are significant challenges faced by many care home residents Interactive tables can help combat these issues by providing a platform for communication and social engagement Whether through video calls with loved ones interactive multi-

Safe & Sound Music & Movement+

The ‘Safe & Sound Music & Movement+’ chair-based exercise programme is winning awards as it helps maturing adults to become and stay physically and mentally fitter, healthier & cognisant

The programme has been in development for over twelve years and in 2019 & 2021 they were awarded ‘Best Holistic Health & Fitness Provider for Southern England in the Healthcare and Pharmaceutical awards

Utilising sitting standing & transitional movements the classes are

open to everyone regardless of their present abilities with adaptions to cater for all helping everyone to improve over time covering the whole of the body from head to toe

The plus in the title refers to all the other elements not normally covered in your run of the mill exercise class with interventions covering arthritis heart problems Parkinson s balance fall prevention mobility, flexibility, strength, diabetes and dementia as well as general mental & physical health & wellbeing

6 VERSATILITY AND FUN FOR ALL: One of the greatest advantages of interactive tables is their versatility They can be customized to suit the diverse interests and preferences of residents From interactive music sessions and sing-alongs to trivia nights and art workshops, the possibilities are endless The element of fun, laughter, and enjoyment is not limited to residents alone; staff members also benefit from witnessing the positive impact of interactive entertainment on residents lives creating a more fulfilling and rewarding work environment

As the adult social care landscape continues to evolve, integrating interactive entertainment into care and nursing homes is a forwardthinking approach that prioritizes resident well-being, mental health sensory stimulation, cognitive skills, and physical exercise Interactive tables have proven to be invaluable tools providing a versatile platform for a wide range of activities fostering social connections and enriching the lives of both residents and staff members alike By embracing these advancements care homes can create a vibrant and inclusive environment where joy, engagement, and fulfillment thrive

Frank Markham founder said

“We are leading the way, enabling people to become and stay physically & mentally fit, active and independent for longer

Although based in Dorset we are also developing an online training course to enable activity co-ordinators to provide the programme to their own care home s nationally

For further information call 07960 990771 or visit www holisticbodytraining co uk

INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT

TV That Creates Connection And Conversation

Is Your Care Setting Using My Life TV?

My Life TV offers a unique solution for care homes and care providers supporting staff to deliver high quality, person-centred care The on demand wellbeing and care tool available on any internet connected device is specifically designed for people living with dementia and those who care for them It contains over 170 hours of content created and curated to meet the cognitive needs of people living with dementia

There is a rich mix of content from stimulating activities for individuals or groups including sing-a-longs quizzes chair yoga and art classes through to relevant reminiscence programmes and joyful entertainment, all accessible at any time of day and night From Bryce Forsyth s Generation Game to Gardener s World, Blue Peter and Delia, there are favourites taken from the nation’s archives There s an abundance of content to help continue people s personal interests and hobbies - and to spark new ones - from nature wildlife and animals to painting and poetry ballroom dancing to birdwatching cookery to crafts cars and cross stitch through to travel sports and music Subscribers can find something that is perfect for the moment the mood and the situation

The platform supports and enables reminiscence - so important for the elderly and for individuals living

with dementia - taking people back to recollect fond memories and times gone by There is a wealth of content, from Reminiscence with Jan, to historic programmes like A Year to Remember taking in key moments including the Queen’s coronation and England winning the world cup, as well as other stimulus to provoke memories and create conversation Your staff may not remember or understand how life was in the past but users often comment that My Life TV enables staff to get to know their residents better as well as helping families to enjoy time with their loved ones creating new memories and inspiring conversations

My Life TV works with trusted expert partners including Alzheimer s Society BBC Archive, National Trust, BFI and NAPA (National Activity Providers Association) as well as engaging with subscribers and users to ensure the platform adds real value is dementia-centred and grounded in supporting best practice care It is one of the reasons My Life TV has been cited as supporting outstanding care delivery by CQC (Care Quality Commission) Find out more about My Life TV at www mylifefilms org

‘Happiness is Our Forte’ – Musical Moments’

Musical Moments sessions are fun energetic, and fully accessible, involving lots of sensory props movement and singing – all of course to great music Director Maggie says “Music brings such joy and a sense of togetherness for people – something that we all really need ”

Every member of the Musical Moments team is passionate about the therapeutic benefits of music for groups and individuals with physical and mental disabilities people with dementia and other conditions as well as with care home residents The sessions are carefully designed to be fully interactive and inclusive so as to stimulate and include everyone in the room all while developing cognitive skills gross and fine motor skills and increasing social interactions

It s not just participants who benefit from these activities – they re also appreciated by carers staff and family members The pandemic has reignited public appreciation for those who’ve looked after vulnerable members of society and the Musical Moments team are passion-

ate about providing some light relief for caring staff, families and friends Family members can spend time with a relative in these sessions without the pressure of conversation – instead they can simply enjoy the activities together

Musical Moments work with consultants including an adaptive movement specialist and a Music Therapist who endorse their sessions and ensure they provide the greatest physical and mental health benefits for their participants All team members have full insurance safeguarding training and DBS checks

Above all, the Musical Moments team cares about bringing joy to the lives of others through music – something that really strikes a chord in a post-pandemic world

Currently operating in: North Yorkshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, Shropshire, Essex, Leeds Liverpool and Solent areas

For more information to book a session or even join the team please see our website www musical-moments co uk or email: hello@musical-moments co uk See the advert on page 33

INTERACTIVE

Magic Table

The Magic Table® from Little Islands® takes the market leading Tiny Tablet and then launches it to a completely new level by building in a high quality sound system that allows everyone to join in the FUN!

Stimulation

• Communication

• Story Telling

Exercises Music Therapy

Internet Google Play Store

Why not give us a call today to arrange your own personal live on-line demonstration

Call 01282 869802 or email hello@littleislands org

Immersive Music Experiences for Care Homes

Music can be an incredible tool for enhancing the quality of life and for evoking memories in people living with dementia and sensory impairments At Silent Memories we provide wireless headset packages for care homes providing a completely unique sensory audio experience for residents

WHY USE HEADSETS?

Create a fully immersive experience through the power of headsets helping develop a deeper sense of coherence communication and stimulation The headsets contain 3 channels meaning 3 different types of music can be set up at the same time to cater for a range of musical tastes Think meandering along to Mozart on channel 1 swinging to Vera Lynn on channel 2 or rocking out to Elvis Presley on channel 3!

By playing familiar tracks through headsets memories and feelings can be stimulated Music can be carefully chosen by loved ones and care workers to really enhance the experience for residents KEEP ON MOVING!

Care homes using Silent Memories have noted a distinct increase in engagement animation and stimulation amongst residents Using headsets allows them to opt in or out of the sessions The sessions can be taking place in a communal area and anyone not taking part won t be distracted by the activity With a long transmission range it also allows patients with limited mobility to take part in their own rooms

WHAT THE CARE HOMES SAY...

I have been astounded by the positive affects holding a ‘Silent Disco’ has had on my clients Silent Memories have played within our care home setting and we have been surprised at the way in which the impact of intimate personal music especially tailored to clients, has engaged the most static, distant clients and really ‘brought them back to life and brought obvious pleasure and joy to many others Briony Sloan - Homecroft, Bradford Please contact the team at Silent Noize to find out how we can help improve the quality of living for your residents info@silentnoizeevents com call 0203 727 5382 or visit www silentnoizeevents com

Fall Savers® are an experienced market leading healthcare provider of resident safety solutions for over 15 years

FALL SAVERS ® WIRELESS MONITOR

Eliminate all cables with our new generation falls management solutions!

Upgrade your falls programme with the latest technology from Fall Savers® The NEW Fall Savers® Wireless eliminates the cord between the monitor and sensor pad This results in less work for nursing staff improved safety for patients and reduced wear and tear on sensor pads Wireless advantages include the ability to use one monitor with two sensor pads simultaneously and support for many new wireless devices

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

Safer for pat ents; less work for staff Bed and cha r pads available One monitor works with two sensor pads Integrates with most nurse call systems

A variety of options including: Call button Pager

Floor sensor mat

Wireless door/window exit alerts

TREADNOUGHT ®FLOOR

Lotus Care Technology

The NurseAlert pressure mat has been one of the most successful floor pressure mats due to it being non slip and carpeted which makes it feel very natural under a residents foot Lotus Care Technology Ltd have many other fall saving devices that can give you peace of mind whilst caring for this at risk of falls

Having many years of experience in fitting and maintaining

Nurse Call Systems helps the guys at Lotus Care Technology understand that every home is different and has different needs They can specify not only the best system for the environmental factors in the home but also take into consideration the best products that will make your carers and nurses jobs that little bit easier

Visit www lctuk com for details

FALLS MANAGEMENT

Cumbria Care Home Embraces AI Technology To Support Care Staff By Preventing and Detecting Falls

Futuristic technology that can detect and even predict and prevent falls is being tested at one of Abbeyfield s residential care homes in Cumbria The technology also eliminates the risk of life-threatening ‘long lies’ where a person falls typically during the night and can remain on the floor for an extended period

The pilot involving the installation of intelligent AI-powered Nobi smart lamps in residents’ bedrooms, is taking place at Hartland House, which is managed by the Abbeyfield Lakeland Extra Care Society part of the worldwide Abbeyfield group Abbeyfield s network of care homes sheltered living schemes and independent living complexes support 6,000 older people in eight countries to live happy, independent lives in a safe and stimulating environment with values of companionship and community at its core

If a resident falls the smart lamp detects this immediately and speaks to the resident, asking if they are okay In the event of no response or a call for help the intelligent lamp is pre-programmed to send an alert to care staff plus a computer-generated outline image to show where and how the fall has occurred

As well as ensuring no-one is left on the floor following a fall (the alert to care staff will ensure attendance within minutes) the lamp also helps to prevent falls from occurring When a resident sits upright in bed at night the lamp will shine soft light upwards to gently illuminate the room and if they then stand up to go to the bathroom for example the smart lamp will illuminate the entire room

The AI technology built into the Nobi smart lamp is even able to predict certain falls Changes in walking pace, length of stride and even the resident s posture when sitting will be detected and can be used to alert caregivers of a potential risk

The pilot is being funded by NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) which organises health and care services across the region

Asim Patel chief digital officer at NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB said We are really interested in how technology can be harnessed to predict and prevent falls in the future and how it can be used to support our care workforce

“Falls are the biggest reason for hospital admissions in our region and this puts huge pressure on care staff and the NHS Piloting this new type of technology is really exciting because not only could it

reduce hospital admissions significantly but it could prevent some of our more vulnerable older people from seriously injuring themselves when they fall

Speaking about the lamps Leanne Scrogham Registered Manager of Hartland House said One of the added benefits of the lamps is that they help us to understand falls that occur

When a resident falls they typically can t remember how or why they fell but the clever Nobi lamps are able to show us a period of 15 seconds before and 15 seconds after a fall as well as sending us a still image of the person on the floor

“This sort of information is invaluable giving us a far better understanding of the incident and how it can be prevented in the future

“Use of the lamps also makes our care team more efficient as the need for unnecessary checks is eliminated This means that our carers can spend more time with the residents who need their help At the same time we are bringing added peace of mind to families so it really is a win-win situation ”

Around a third of people aged 65 and over and around half of all people aged 80 and over, fall at least once a year Being unattended following a fall is life-threatening and the length of time they are on the floor has a significant impact on the person’s recovery following a fall Fast assistance after a fall is therefore crucial in terms of saving lives improving recovery, reducing hospital stays, and decreasing care needs after hospitalisation

For more information about Abbeyfield, visit www abbeyfield com

Or for information on Nobi visit www nobi life

4 Reflections on Technology in Care: The Past, Present and the Exciting Future

condition and comfort These tools can help ease the workload of staff and provide them with digestible and accessible real-time information allowing them to focus on what matters most

2 SAFETY & ADMINISTRATION

We stand at a crossroads for the future of care

The sector has been in the spotlight much over the last few years and not often for positive reasons

Social care has become an increasingly political subject, and there is much discussion around the sector pertaining to Covid rules funding staffing levels and its uncertain future

One certainty is that our people are our most important asset It is they who set the tone and direction of the industry and are the beating pulse of its workings However, they have seen great challenges over the past 2 years and as a result we need to look to new ways to protect support and empower them

As we look at the next 5 and 10 years for the industry, we should look to face the problems of the sector head-on Whilst funding and policy are integral parts of the solution we must also look to generate solutions from within the industry itself

Increasingly technology has become an accessible and widespread tool in care and something that should be embraced as part of care s future

1 MONITORING

Over the past few years staff across the industry have provided outstanding care amidst highly challenging circumstances However, as demand for care increases the pressure on staff does too

We need to look to means to support staff in their work, and to enable them to focus on delivering hands on high-quality human care

New technology can allow for remote monitoring analysis and diagnosis of key needs Audible cues can detect signs and symptoms of a possible fall, and mattress management technology can pick up possible incontinence AI-enabled paincheck facial analysis can assist in analysing patient

The safety of our patients must be paramount, and technology is certainly a great tool to aid that Electronic patient care records are becoming more commonplace in healthcare settings and should be embraced in care settings too Software can monitor medication dosing help track a patient s condition over time, and flag things requiring immediate attention Digitally enabled mattresses can detect and alert to changes in physiology such as abnormal vital signs These technologies can also allow for better continuation of care throughout the care pathways ensuring that a patient is not a nameless folded sheet of paper but instead a holistic individual with records to match

3 THERAPY

Care needs are becoming both more complex and more understood Technology can, and has, enabled a breadth of new therapies for some of the more complex conditions For those suffering with dementia it has unlocked a new realm of possibility in memory care such as the use of virtual reality sensory enhancement chambers and movement/motion therapy chairs

4 DIGNITY

Arguably, dignity is one of the most important, and most overlooked aspects in developing the future of the care industry Dignity in care goes beyond how we direct interactions with patients –but must be at the core of their experience, through every aspect of their day-to-day Technology, when used correctly, is a greater enabler of a proud holistic patient care experience

Direct care alarms linking individual residents to portable devices held by staff can make alerts discreet Applications can keep family members abreast of a resident’s routine and day from afar Medication can be dispensed personally and in privacy All these developments allow ‘patients’ to reclaim their sense of person and to have their care be a subtle addition as opposed to an overt fact

Times are changing, and we as a sector must change with them Care has sat in the shadows for too, and it is time, with the help of the blossoming care technology field to bring it to the light

By Laurence Geller CBE , founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of both Geller Capital Partners and Innovative Aged Care

NURSE CALL AND FALLS MANAGEMENT

A Technology Enabled Response to Elderly Falls in the Community

Falls among the elderly are increasingly common and are a large driver of urgent and at times emergency community response

They are also a major cause of a decrease in quality of life loss of independence and when left without response for over an hour associated with hospital admission and long-term moves into care as a result

Every year, at least one fall will be experienced by:

1 in 3 adults over 65

Half of people over 80

Recent government modelling predicts that changes to activity levels will result in an increase to these numbers with:

110 000 more elderly adult fallers

• An additional cost of £211 million to the NHS as a result

However, not all falls result in serious injury and can be responded to by community-based falls services

ALLEVIATING AMBULANCE SERVICES:

Ambulance services are usually called to respond to people who have fallen in the community Some ambulance services have recognised the need to reduce callouts for uninjured falls and have delivered training sessions and issued equipment for social care providers to support elderly fallers in the community Programs from North East Ambulance Service & the Welsh Ambulance Service Trusts have seen results including 87% increase in in-house falls response

• Lifting equipment used in 56% of cases

A 32% reduction in calls to 999 from 115 care homes

THE RAIZER LIFTING CHAIR: A SOLUTION TO NON-INJURIOUS COMMUNITY FALLS:

The Raizer is a portable, electric lifting chair that allows a carer to provide rapid response for a non-injurious fall An intuitive design means the Raizer can be set up in under a minute and requires no staff training to use

A single carer can complete a remote-controlled mechanical patient lift in just 30 seconds once the chair is assembled

A Raizer lifting chair can help to:

Free up carers time: The process can take as little as 5 minutes from set up to lifting

Reduce long-lie times: Carers can respond to non-injurious falls quickly

Alleviate ambulance stress: Reduce the number of ambulances calls for non-injurious falls

REDUCING LONG LIE TIMES | THE LONG-TERM PLAN FOR COMMUNITY

FALLS:

The NHS Long-Term Plan aims to shift demand from acute hospital care into social care by offering joined up health and care services where appropriate

In practice this means an increase of community-based falls response teams as well as social care providers and emergency services working together to provide faster falls response to uninjured fallers

These teams respond to non-injurious falls that do not require ambulances and crucially reduce the number of long-lies on the ground for over an hour This is particularly important for the oldest residents a recent study showed:

• 59% of all over 90s have been found on the floor at some stage 88% of those who fell were unable to get up 33% of over 90s spent over one hour on the ground before receiving assistance

MOVING FORWARD:

Social care providers must explore innovative solutions that will allow ambulances to redirect their focus to the most urgent emergencies

Government services should focus on community-based falls response to alleviate system pressures by establishing a home-first approach to care that sees the healthcare support offered in a person s place of residence

Appropriate tech-enabled falls response equipment such as the Raizer Lifting Chair and falls responder training can address the over reliance on emergency services to respond to non-injurious community falls and contribute to a more efficient and effective emergency response system

For more information on the Raizer Lifting Chair

ww vivid care

Phone: 01423 799 960

Email: enquiries@vivid care

www.nursecallsystems.co.uk

AND FALLS MANAGEMENT

Medpage Falls Management Products

Medpage Limited has been at the forefront in patient care product innovation for almost four decades During this time we have invented alarm clocks to wake deaf people, monitors for people with epilepsy to detect night-time seizures and alerting carers by radio pager Calendar

Clocks with memory prompting for people with dementia bed and chair leaving alarms with pager warnings for a carer and a vast array of electronic sensors

Our philosophy is always to produce products that people can afford, not just dream of Certainly the way world has been for the past few years that philosophy makes more sense today Our latest range of bed and chair sensor alarms for example cost a fraction more than they did 10 years ago Mainly due to the good old microprocessor replacing a bucket load of analogue components Does anyone remember op-amps and transistors?

There are close to 100 Medpage branded products to aid care of people who may be; a falls risk live with epilepsy suffer from stroke are a full-time carer professional healthcare worker, living with dementia Our products are designed, manufactured, and distributed governed by an audited quality management system You can trust us to delivery on every count

People generally these days are not so concerned with the past mainly what can we have today and what could we have tomorrow Simple

answer Today you could visit our website and explore the vast array of Independent Living Aids, Hospital Discharge Patient Home Support product packages

Domestic and Professional Carer Support products

Better planning today will bring better outcomes for tomorrow Take a look at www easylinkuk co uk

See the advert on page 7 for further details

Frequency Precision - Sensors and Pressure Mats to Monitor Those in Care

Technology has made people more connected with the world around them and the revolution in assistive care devices has made it possible for the elderly to spend their last years in a comfortable and familiar environment These devices have also made it easier for home carers to provide quality care for their loved ones while managing their own lives They allow you to care for your elderly whether they are travelling in the city for errands staying alone at home or staying in the same home as you They are also helping nursing homes provide better care for them with discrete monitoring and quick responses to emergencies

If you re looking for these kinds of assistive care devices for your loved ones or nursing home Frequency Precision produce some of the best systems available to help you with elderly care and mobility monitoring, ranging from bed, chair and floor

sensor mats through fall monitoring and GPS tracking to fully integrated nurse call plug or wireless systems

Contact us or come and see us at the COTS on Stand 36

Phone: 01837 810590

Email: contact@frequencyprecision com

Website: www frequencyprecision com

Silent Running - Tranquility in Care Homes

Quiet and calm care homes ensure that residents are able to live in a more relaxing and pleasant home environment Similarly carers and staff find that they too benefit from reduced stress when working in a home where noise levels are kept to a minimum There are many environmental factors that can affect those sensitive to their surroundings, particularly those suffering from dementia these can be fluctuations in ambient temperature light and of course noise Repetitive and high levels of noise can originate from a number of internal and external sources for example telephones ringing loud conversations in corridors and call bells sounding often one of the largest contributors to increasing the levels of stress and discomfort in residents

A published study by the University of Stirling stated that unanswered Nurse Call (Call Bell) alarms can be one of the most common causes of stress in dementia sufferers The University recommends fitting call

alarms which alert nurses but do not resonate throughout the whole building Alarms can be particularly disconcerting as they may encourage the person with dementia to respond or investigate what the matter is At the very least the loss of sleep will compromise a person’s ability to concentrate It can affect their attention levels and capacity to cope as well as being detrimental to their overall state of wellbeing Personal paging systems are preferable to bells and buzzers ” Modern Nurse Call systems can incorporate a number of methods to reduce their impact in a care home These include zoning whereby there are separate alarm types used depending upon the location of the call In these circumstances dementia sufferers and those vulnerable to noise can be located in one zone whist less vulnerable residents live in an alternative zone Each zone can operate different call tones warning lights or other methods to alert when help is required Reducing noise levels is essential to create a tranquil environment for

residents Pagers have been around for many years are a relatively simple and cost-effective measure in reducing the levels of noise and can be added to most Nurse Call systems Smart Mobile Devices are now becoming more commonplace for care home staff and hold a variety of apps for care planning e-medication etc Many Courtney Thorne clients are now utilising the Go app with their Nurse Call system With the Go app nurse call alarms are delivered immediately and silently straight to the handsets alerting the individual carers to all Nurse call alarms without creating any general alarm sound and rarely disturbing the rest of the residents in the home

Calmer residents ultimately means that staff are less stressed also this creates a happier workplace where morale is greatly improved staff are retained and CQC ratings improve Clearly the positive ramifications of a quiet Care Home run deep Get in touch today to find out how we can help your home become a quieter calmer and more tranquil environment

For more information email us at info@c-t co uk or see the facing page

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Nourish Care Integrates with Whzan Digital Health

Nourish Care continues to revolutionise digital care planning provision in the adult care sector by integrating data with Whzan Digital Health, a health monitoring system connected to the NHS and used in over 3 000 care homes that is already freeing up hospital beds leading to speedier recovery times and better health outcomes

The collaboration between Nourish and Whzan means that vital observations will be available alongside daily care records giving care teams instant access to up-to-date clinical patient information

Whzan Digital Health created the Whzan Blue Box an all-in-one telehealth system providing wireless monitoring equipment to enable carers to measure vital signs and calculate a National Early Warning (NEWS2) score This ensures that any signs of deterioration are detected at the earliest opportunity Used widely by the NHS and carers throughout the UK the Blue Box monitors patients across care homes domiciliary care facilities and individual patient homes It enables care teams to conduct multiple comprehensive clinical assessments communicating results to healthcare professionals remotely

Now Whzan and Nourish have linked up their solutions vital observations such as blood oxygen levels temperature pulse blood pressure and respiration rate will appear alongside daily care records giving care teams instant, reliable data to determine the best course of treatment and follow-up action This means that Nourish will become a single source of reliable information for care teams, removing the need to access multiple systems and therefore saving time The benefits will be felt across the sector from Integrated Care Boards through to independent care providers

The integration gives clinicians carers and patients more peace of mind The Blue Box is adaptable to multiple conditions and has already been shown by NHS reports to save up to 50% demand on emergency services and hospital bed days It has reduced ambulance call outs and enabled carers to make decisions that have a lasting impact on the health of individuals

Steve Lawrence Head of Product at Nourish had this to say

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Whzan, their Blue Box solution provides an important service for care settings across the UK The integration provides tangible benefits, surfacing vital signs directly into Nourish to enable informed decision-making and pro-active adjustments to treatment plans Our Integration also reduces the administrative burden of manual data entry and the associated error risk We look forward to seeing the positive benefits the integration brings to our customers and the people they support

John Cooling, Chairman of Whzan Digital Health commented

This integration will enable care homes to eliminate duplication of work Clients detailed within Nourish will automatically populate Whzan caseloads and Whzan vital signs plus NEWS2 data will be automatically transferred into the Nourish record All they need to do is contact Whzan and we will complete the link ”

Nourish Care is the leading provider of digital care management software in the UK It was one of the first digital social care record suppliers to be recognised as an NHS Transformation Directorate Assured Supplier at launch and is accredited by PRSB as a Quality Partner The easy-to-use mobile app provides care teams with person-centred tools, timelines, assessments and more to drive outstanding care and improve outcomes for those with support needs Nourish works with more than 3 500 care services in the UK and overseas within residential homes, nursing homes, learning disability services mental health services and other care settings

Whzan is the most widely adopted remote health monitoring system commissioned by the NHS in all sectors of care homes supporting daily care to over 100 000 patients from more than 40 000 carers The multiaward winning system is used extensively for patients in the place they call home to feel reassured their health is supported and any unexpected changes are detected quickly leading to faster support and a speedier recovery

Why We Must Keep Taking Data-Driven Steps For ward

John Lanyon, Co -Founder of KareInn (www.kareinn.com), reviews the Government ’s updated roadmap for better data for adult social care and discusses how data is helping care homes meet their Adult Social Care Outcomes Framework objectives

The Government recently updated its roadmap for better data for adult social care describing the plan as an important step in addressing transformation

In the updated roadmap the Minister of State for Care said that while some care providers local authorities and other organisations are trailblazers in the use of data digital tools and technology overall adult social care as a sector lags behind healthcare “while we have come a long way in improving the data that we collect and use there is still much more to do”

We are seeing every day how tech in care homes is helping to improve resident satisfaction and maximise operational efficiency From improved communication enhanced resident safety and wellbeing streamlined operations and a facility for data-driven decision-making the sector is slowly but surely seeing the benefits of digital But to keep up with the pace of change any transformation needs to align with the important targets care homes must reach

ALIGNING WITH THE ASCOF

The Adult Social Care Outcomes Framework (ASCOF) measures how well care and support services achieve the outcomes that matter most to people The framework plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality, transparency, and accountability of adult social care services

By setting clear objectives measuring performance and providing a framework for evaluation the ASCOF encourages care providers to identify areas for improvement, implement changes, and monitor the impact of their interventions This drives a culture of learning and innovation ultimately leading to better outcomes for service users

If we break down the benefits of digital and specifically data driven decision-making we can see just how it supports care homes in reaching their ASCOF targets and how it will help them along the Government s data roadmap

DEVELOPING PERSONALISED CARE

We re seeing digital care records enable care homes to capture and store comprehensive information about each resident s needs preferences and goals This information can be used to develop personalised care plans and ensure that care is tailored to individual requirements By leveraging digital care

records effectively care homes can improve care planning documentation communication and monitoring of outcomes This in turn supports the objectives of the ASCOF promoting person-centred care accountability quality improvement and the overall wellbeing of residents

Digital care records allow care homes to track and monitor outcomes related to the ASCOF measures By recording and analysing data on service user feedback quality of life indicators and other relevant metrics care homes can evaluate the effectiveness of their interventions and make evidence-based improvements to their care practices

CREATING AN AUDIT TRAIL

Digital care plans help care homes meet regulatory requirements and demonstrate compliance with relevant standards These records provide a documented audit trail of care interventions ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to best practices in care provision

Digital can also streamline the documentation process by providing a centralised platform for recording care interventions assessments and outcomes This ensures that documents are completed efficiently and accurately supporting effective communication among care teams and ensuring the continuity of care

A FACILITY FOR INTEGRATED CARE

Crucially digital care records facilitate efficient and secure information sharing among care professionals residents and their families Individuals can access up-to-date information about a resident's care plan medications, allergies, and other relevant details, enhancing communication and collaboration across the care team

The wealth of data that is created by digital care planning can be analysed to identify patterns trends and areas for improvement Care homes can generate reports and dashboards based on this data enabling them to monitor performance measure progress and identify areas where they can enhance the quality of care and outcomes

Data and the insights they provide are fundamental to ensuring that people who draw on care and support can access high quality care and achieve the outcomes that matter to them Digital care records play a significant role in helping care homes meet the objectives of the ASCOF

As the Government s roadmap states we are embarking on far-reaching reforms But we as a sector must continue to champion data and its benefits to drive social care forward at the right pace We must continue to champion evidence-based digital technology and its ability to deliver end-of-life altering care and personalised services that address persistent unmet needs across residential care

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Pass Profile 2023

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

• Improve the quality of care

Deliver better outcomes

INTEGRATED HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE

Assured by NHS Transformation Directorate PASS provides a secure platform that allows you to plan record and evidence the care you deliver

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

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@everylifetechnoloiges com

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 eMar - now 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 have a range of nurse call systems at different sites and the NMS system integrates to them and allows us to compare response times between sites In addition the integration to Person Centred Software is revolutionary 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

Ssee the advert on the front cover for more details

Autumna Increases Enquiries For Care Homes Using Digital Mapping TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

to its impressive pedigree and how accessible the software was

"Plotting providers and care seekers from the last four years on the same map instantly gave us a clear picture of demand hotspots along with hotspots for the type and cost of care being sought It’s a different way of looking at our data and creates new insights which we ve been able to share with customers The approach eliminates a lot of risk for them by revealing which of their locations are best suited to invest in a premium profile so helps create a more reliable relationship with us

Four Seasons Health Care Group upgraded a single listing to the premium level and saw a 40% increase in enquiries As a result it decided to look at other areas and increased the number of upgraded listings to 40 homes and the number of enquiries generated more than doubled

“Seeing where demand is coming from on a map instantly reveals where we should invest in more premium profiles which helps maximise our marketing investment ” said Tessa Matthews Head of

Marketing and Digital, Four Seasons Health Care Group

Autumna the UK s largest directory of care home and retirement living providers is using digital mapping software from Esri UK to help its customers market their properties more effectively and increase queries from care seekers

Using spatial analysis to identify where most care seeker queries are coming from Autumna is able to tell care providers which properties are best suited to promote on its platform using premium profiles One care provider Four Seasons Health Care Group has seen queries from care seekers more than double across 40 care homes since using the service

The new mapping solution from Esri UK replaces manual processes using spreadsheets and static PDF reports By visualising query traffic on an interactive map dashboard the data is validated as users can see it is real Autumna introduced the new mapping technology as it wanted to understand the impact of location on searches for care homes and help care providers achieve the best ROI on their marketing spend

We needed to examine which care homes in the country were in the best location to receive the largest number of enquiries possible and we could only do this with geospatial technology ” explained Debbie Harris founder of Autumna We chose to work with Esri UK due

Leading digital social care records provider Nourish has partnered with Maldaba, whose Hear Me Now app enables people to capture and share information about themselves to support the delivery and tracking of high-quality, complex, personalised care

Hear Me Now allows those with learning disabilities to play a more active role in the planning and implementation of their care and well-being The app has been live since 2016 (originally known as My Health Guide) and was designed with and for people with learning disabilities It has since enabled groups such as those with autism dementia and other cognitive challenges to have more control over their care

People with learning disabilities die on average 20 years younger than the general population, and this technology aims to address inequalities in care in line with the LeDeR review and national agenda for service improvement for people with learning disabilities and autism

Combining Hear Me Now and Nourish’s expertise in digital care planning will bring benefits to service users their families and care providers alike and improve outcomes across the board

Esri geospatial technology is also being used to support Autumna’s recently launched Dashboard for Accelerated Discharge tool (D A D ) By automating the currently manual process of searching for care D A D works with discharge teams and care providers to identify available appropriate care within 60 minutes of a search request being performed Esri technology enables users to forecast how the demand versus availability is going to change in the future

Future plans include using the demand data to advise providers where is best to open a new care home Autumna is also planning to feed census and other demographic data into the system to understand population changes and trends over time which might impact the industry

The use of spatial analysis in the care sector is relatively new continued Debbie “We began working with Esri UK and experimenting with its geospatial software over a year ago and it s now integrated into our business We knew we had a lot of data that we weren’t using properly and location is perhaps the most important part of a search for care and very difficult to analyse without a map Now we can easily demonstrate where care requirements are coming from along with budget hotspots The geospatial approach lets us understand the care seeker better and the more we understand them, the more we can improve our processes

About Esri UK

Founded in 1969 Esri is the global market leader in Geographic Information System (GIS) software mapping and spatial analysis and today has 4 000 staff in 73 countries Esri UK customers include UK Health Security Agency, Public Health Scotland and NHS South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit

Website: www esriuk com/health

Email: healthcare@esriuk com

Tel: 01296 745599

At Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust Hear Me Now allowed for a 30% reduction in service use which created space for reducing waiting lists and pressure on other areas of the service National care provider Hft were able to re-use 243 contact hours at a single service within a one-year period enabling greater independence in daily activities for people they support There are other efficiency benefits for staff as they are able to enter information alongside the person they are supporting in a more engaging way Lorenzo Gordon Director Maldaba Ltd comments: Partnering with Nourish is an important step in joining-up data so that it is entered only once and flows to the right people at the right time At Maldaba we see this as crucial to providing appropriate correct and timely support to vulnerable people and are delighted to be working with a provider such as Nourish who shares this vision

Denise Tack, Director of Partnerships, Nourish Care adds: “,The Nourish Partnership Programme is designed around partnerships such as the one with Maldaba with the impact on the end-user always being the core focus Now is the time for care-sector technologies to work together in partnership, ending the reliance on pilots and siloed solutions Digital transformation of our sector at scale can only truly happen if done collaboratively We are proud to be partnering with such a like-minded organisation and look forward to seeing the positive benefits for our customers and individuals receiving support ”

For further information on Nourish Care visit

Mass

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Managing Vital Communications: Mass Notification Systems In Healthcare Settings

(CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE)

By introducing a mass notification system in addition to our standard communication channels we can communicate efficiently with staff about network maintenance system maintenance critical infrastructure updates IT system failures and emergency planning This system has helped to reduce the impact to the IT Service Desk by not overwhelming them with calls and tickets raised by staff discovering problems during a maintenance window or problems we are already aware of Instead as a team we can focus on resolving outages as quickly as possible

Mass notification systems also offer advantages in terms of supporting emergency and lockdown procedures with some even offering pre-set “emergency response” alerts triggered by a hot-key combination to facilitate their use in time-sensitive situations Routine alerts – such as fire drills – can be automatically scheduled in advance Additionally, in situations where a mass response is required from staff – such as major trauma – staff can be notified instantaneously giving staff as much precious time as possible to prepare Mass notifications can also support forward planning for staff giving them advance notice of system

outages and technical upgrades

As with adopting any amendments to protocol, bringing staff along with you is crucial to ensuring a smooth implementation It s likely that there will be an appetite amongst your colleagues for adopting such a system; at Mid Cheshire colleagues were extremely receptive and co-operative due to the evident need to improve communication delivery

Having a clear chain of prioritisation of messages additionally will allow the system to work most efficiently Allowing too many people to access the system or issuing messages too regularly dilutes its effectiveness as the service should be reserved for critical messaging An overload of messages is likely to result in people not taking notice in the messages themselves rendering the service less effective Mass notification systems, available in many forms are a readily available tool to help you create clear lines of communication in a care setting By streamlining the transmission of key messages you can alleviate pressures on your colleagues at all levels ultimately allowing you to deliver the best care outcomes to clients and patients

Innovative care home software solutions from Ablyss

“It’s not just about what we do it’s about what we can do for you”!

There will be big changes over the next 12 months in the residential and nursing care sector With around 50% of homes still using paper systems to plan and record their care the NHS Transformation Directorate have big ideas which, whilst exciting, might seem daunting to those without the proper tools to make these ideas a reality

So where to begin? Well we here at Ablyss have 20 years of experience developing software for the care Industry We know how difficult running a care home can be at the best of times and we have drawn on our knowledge and experience to build a duo of care management offerings:

• Blyssful, our award winning cloud-based care management system for new and existing customers, making the system easily accessible from anywhere and by anyone with permission to do so

• Ablyss CMS, our on-premises solution can help you to plan and evidence the care that you provide, supporting you to achieve compliance within your business

The emphasis is on care management, recording, and analysis, and both solutions have been designed with the management carers and residents of the care home in mind The result is time saved admin simplified and safe and personalised provision of care, so you can focus more on those in need

With a fully UK based team, our care consultants are always on hand to provide training and answer your questions whilst our support team will help you to customise your system set up integrations with your other systems, and ensure your software is always up to date

Don t just take our word for it, here s a small selection of our many satisfied customers:

“It s not technology for technology’s sake Irrefutably, it helps us to deliver a much better service to our clients Elizabeth & Roberta House

“We invested in Ablyss CMS a number of years ago and it has proved to be one of the very best decisions we have made ” Prospect House We believe we can create a better way to manage and connect your care Seeing is believing so why not arrange a demo with one of our product specialists Visit

Technology Enabled Care: The Next Generation of Care Provision TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

At The Access Group we are aware of the challenges of maintaining quality care facing the care industry It is estimated that there are 1 98 million social care requests made every year and with limiting budgets and staff recruitment at a all time high it is getting increasingly difficult to ensure care providers are constantly delivering better person-centred care

We are delighted to announce our latest solution which will sit within our Workspace for Care Access Assure Our Assure ecosystem will sit at the centre of our care offering to prevent, monitor, and react to social care needs as they change Here our technology enabled care and digital telecare goes further than just a digital social alarm We combine both traditional reactive alarm functionality with proactive digital monitoring to deliver better proactive and preventative care

Our digital monitoring tools allows for continuous data capture and analysis for care providers and clinical consultants aggregating the data collected and transforming it into actionable insight In just a matter of 14

days our Assure ecosystem can learn individual daily routines to notify care providers and loved ones of any changes before something more critical takes place

The Assure ecosystem supports people recover across the care continuum to prolong independence provide reassurance, delay future care needs, and reduce hospital discharge delays to help budgets stretch further and help reach the demand easier

Technology Enabled Care is more than just a single component or sensor it s the combined sum of all its parts To enable this Assure integrates with 3rd party sensors and devices and a variety of our other care solutions This ensures we can deliver a level of intelligence and can help join up data to provide insight on wellbeing to deliver a preventative approach to care and improve care planning, care management, and care delivery to give individuals the freedom to do more

To find out more about how our digital telecare helps deliver better proactive and preventative care contact us today at www theaccessgroup com/en-gb/health-social-care/form/digital-telecare-demo-contact-form/

Syncurio: An Innovative Solution Unleashed Through Collaboration

In an industry where ticking clocks are as daunting as eroding margins the quest for comprehensive care home management software that reflects bespoke operational needs can resemble a significant endeavour Sensing a gap in the market a network of care home operators pooled their insights birthing Syncurio, a paradigm-shifting software, purpose-built for their unique sector

The genesis of Syncurio can be traced back to collective frustration Hindered by existing software options operators grappled with recurring challenges from managing absenteeism to accurate billing and budgeting Observing the domino effect these issues were having on business performance this network of industry stalwarts took the bull by the horns

The strength of unity proved encouraging as this network pooled their knowledge and insights Their objective: to counteract their shared pain points through collaboration culminating in the creation of Syncurio This comprehensive care management software is a product of firsthand industry knowledge catering to the distinct needs of care home operators Sarah a member of IT services at a major care home group commented The Syncurio team have been a pleasure to deal with - always eager to hear and act on feedback and suggestions for improvement ”

Syncurio is a product meticulously tailored to remove operator frustrations Its features include userfriendly interfaces intuitive scheduling tools a state-of-the-art clocking in mechanism and enhanced billing functions The software s robust data analytics capabilities offer operators invaluable insights into

resident care resource allocation and staff performance By leveraging cuttingedge technology Syncurio is upping the ante in the care home industry

The software’s user-friendly interfaces promote operational efficiency, allowing staff to navigate the system seamlessly optimising their time and enabling them to focus on providing quality care Operations Director, Jennifer said of Syncurio Being able to manage staffing budgets and rosters alongside resident fee data has enabled us to get the balance right between high levels of care and financial sustainability ”

Despite being a relative newcomer Syncurio is generating considerable market interest As word spreads about this trailblazing software, care home operators of varied backgrounds are expressing interest in signing up Syncurio s burgeoning success is inspiring for operators grappling with similar challenges and accentuates the benefits of this ground-breaking solution

Syncurio stands as an exemplar of the transformative potential of collaboration and innovation Within a short period it has proven itself as a game-changer surmounting the limitations of existing care management software and heralding an era of streamlined operations and enhanced communication The success story of Syncurio serves as a timely reminder of the catalytic results of industry-wide collaboration As Syncurio gains traction the care home industry is poised for significant advancements fuelled by the spirit of collaboration and the pursuit of quality care

To find out more give us a call on 020 4525 0299 | Email us at info@syncurio co uk

Staying Ahead in Care: Navigating the Tightened Immigration Compliance Landscape

the entire 2022 The message is unequivocal for care providers

While the financial repercussions are large there's an equally pressing concern the reputational damage disruptions in caregiving and jeopardising of sponsor licenses For care establishments with sponsor licenses the scrutiny intensifies With the Home Office keen on escalating actions against non-compliant licensed institutions maintaining flawless operations becomes non-negotiable

How can care organisations remain compliant?

We've devised a five-step action plan tailored for the UK care sector:

Considering the UK's evolving immigration policies, the care sector is urged more than ever to uphold rigorous compliance With our nation heavily relying on this sector, the implications of non-compliance are not just regulatory but fundamentally touch upon the wellbeing of our communities

The Minister for Immigration Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP recently highlighted this urgency On 7th August 2023 he conveyed the steepest rise in civil penalties for employers housing illegal workers since 2014 Initial fines will now attract a £45 000 penalty per illegal worker up from £15,000 Repeat contraventions see a spike from £20 000 to £60 000 Jenrick shared that starting from 2018 the civil penalties imposed on employers totalled £88 4 million Moreover 2023's arrest rate from immigration enforcement teams has already passed that of

1 Routine Audits: Periodically scrutinise employment documentation ensuring every staff member is legally employed Employ mock audits replicating Home Office s compliance checks catching potential oversights before they catch you

2 Sponsor Management System (SMS): Possession of a sponsor licence demands effective management It’s imperative to understand and fulfil the obligations accompanying this privilege Establish and reinforce systems ensuring these obligations are met

3 Ongoing Training: Equip your HR and recruitment units with current knowledge on immigration regulations A sound hiring mechanism stands as the primary safeguard against compliance breaches

4 Consultation with Experts: Engage regularly with immigration specialists ensuring your practices align with the fluid landscape of immigration laws

5 Stay Updated: Subscriptions to Home Office updates or expert

newsletters keep you a step ahead mitigating unintentional missteps

By adhering to this plan care providers not only avoid adverse actions but also position themselves as attractive employers for global caregivers thus capitalising on a diverse caregiving staff and plugging shortages

Should you require navigation through the intricacies of the UK s immigration maze, Immtell is poised to assist We're committed to ensuring compliance is seamlessly integrated into your daily operations Reach out to us at info@immtell com or explore our services at www immtell com

Care Home Finance from Global Business Finance

Global assists clients throughout the U K who specialise in the healthcare sector to achieve their objectives of purchase development and refinance

We have organised over £1 8bn for clients in the past 30 years providing clients with competitively priced funding to refinance existing debt ease cashflow and develop businesses further

From helping clients make their first purchase through to allowing groups to grow significantly in size

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

New RoSPA Qualifications-Certified Dementia Course Launches

As dementia rates rise, the importance of upskilling those working in the care sector on the condition has never been greater That s why leading qualifications provider, RoSPA Qualifications, has teamed up with EDGE Services a specialist people handling training provider to develop an innovative new qualification to help care workers understand the debilitating condition

The Dementia Care Key Trainer’s Certificate that runs as a two-day course provides delegates with the knowledge skills and confidence to train others in dementia awareness including how to spot symptoms, challenges it can present and how to work effectively Upon completion of the course delegates receive a certificate of achievement which is valid for two years

By the end of the course professionals will have learnt:

What is meant by the term dementia

• The different types of dementia and potential their causes

The risk factors signs and symptoms of dementia

• The current and projected statistics about the incidence of dementia including on the individual and those living with or caring for them

The main challenges facing those working with dementia

Effective strategies to assist staff working with people with dementia to reduce the impact of the challenges faced and how to improve quality of life

• The importance of record-keeping and documentation

A knowledge of the legal issues involved in working effectively with people with dementia

RoSPA Qualifications is an awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) that designs develops and certifies a range of vocationally related qualifications

EDGE Services is already a recognised RoSPA Qualification Centre, which enables it to deliver a suite of customised awards

Debbie Clueit, RoSPA Qualifications’ External Verifier, said: “We were delighted that RoSPA Qualifications was able to help develop EDGE Services’ Dementia Care Key Trainer’s Certificate – a highly important course for anyone working with adults with dementia

“As an intensive two-day course it covers a wide range of important topics from spotting the signs of dementia through to dealing with challenging behaviour and beyond Those who complete the course achieve a RoSPA Qualifications-approved certificate that is valid for two years

“We worked with EDGE Services to ensure the course was accessible and that it met the Level 4 Ofqual descriptors along with developing the learning outcomes content and assessment process ”

Ruth Hewitt Operations Manager at EDGE Services said “The course is aimed at those whose staff may work with adults who live with dementia - both in the health care sector and beyond It provides delegates with the expertise to train others in awareness of dementia that can be adopted to deal with symptoms, challenges and how to work effectively

For further information on RoSPA Qualifications please visit www rospa com/health-and-safety-qualifications

For further information on The Dementia Care Key Trainer’s Certificate please visit www edgeservices co uk/courses/dementia-awareness-key-trainer-certificate/

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

Good governance care itself is an integral part of health and social regulation, Regulation 17 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities)

Regulations 2014 stipulates that care providers must have systems and processes in place that ensure they can meet the requirements of Regulations

4 to 20A Policies and procedures not only ensure that providers are compliant with this regulation and working within the law; they also enable providers to drive improvement and protect the people who access services and receive care

Providers also 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

The roll-out of a free new e-learning module on healthcare waste - set up by Health Education England - is set to bring major benefits to the care home sector says leading independent healthcare waste management company Anenta

care sector

Created with the help of Anenta the new 30-45 minute training module available here is accessible free of charge via the Health Education England online portal

It outlines what waste should go into which waste stream, correct segregation practices, and other important waste related guidance This helps prevent low-risk items, which should cost £300-£500 per tonne for disposal as offensive waste from being disposed of as infectious waste costing upwards of £800 per tonne

Vitally the training also helps avoid the risk of waste contractors refusing to make collections from care homes due to their non-compliance which could put care services at risk of disruption This is avoided through the correct completion of a Pre-Acceptance Audit (PAA) which in the case of most care homes needs to be undertaken every five years - unless waste produced on site changes in its nature

Where a care home produces more than five tonnes of clinical waste annually a PAA will need to be undertaken every 12 months remaining valid until renewal date or unless waste types undeclared in the pre-acceptance audit are discovered

Commenting on the roll-out of the new free training, Graham Flynn, Director at Anenta, said: “We ve worked hard on the development of the new e-learning train-

Rising to the Challenge of Recruitment and Retention

By Jackie Tritton, Chief Clinical Officer at Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care (www renniegrovepeace org)

The shortage of staff across the care and nursing sectors is no secret But with creativity and determination organisations are working around the challenges by maximising the resources they do have, while attracting new staff to fill vacant roles Here Jackie Tritton Chief Clinical Officer at Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care tells us how her teams are recruiting, retaining and repurposing staff to ensure the charity can not only maintain services but grow them during a merger

“When the trustees of Peace Hospice Care and Rennie Grove Hospice Care announced their intention to merge last June it was with the ambition of serving a growing population of people living with progressive life-limiting illnesses reaching more people who need our support and strengthening our services This is all playing out against a backdrop of staff shortages across the entire sector that have blighted all care settings for years We knew that in order to deliver expanded services to our new larger patch we would need to think creatively about recruitment challenges

“In addition to the national challenges relating to the economy, NHS and the Covid-19 pandemic, our location in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire brings with it unique challenges These include proximity to a number of hospitals, including the big London hospitals, and specialist palliative care (SPC) providers, meaning there is a huge amount of employee choice in our area

“Over the past year we have been working hard on retaining our existing staff – through reviewing everything about salary progression pensions and benefits as well as working closely with employees to manage team morale and culture

“Despite this recruitment of new staff remains a challenge and we have a 31% vacancy rate in our clinical teams

Care As a Career

–

For us it has therefore been vital to focus on creativity in the way we work with existing staff and resources One example of this has been our nurse associate role By supporting our senior health care assistants to progress to registered nurse roles we can nurture existing talent and close recruitment gaps while rewarding the loyalty and hard work of our dedicated HCA workforce

We have also created Community Senior staff nurse roles to expand our Palliative care Response (PRT) teams These are highly skilled nurses who can support patients in the community during an emergency or sudden deterioration as well as supporting earlier discharges from hospital through intensive intervention to meet patients’ wishes

Other new roles – such as Allied Health Professional (AHP) assistant practitioners nurse consultants and paramedics are allowing us to expand the team and recruit new colleagues without relying on the existing pool of traditional registered nurses which we know is finite in number and much sought after across the board

“As well as upskilling our own staff we are actively working with partner organisations to share knowledge and develop the local workforce to meet the needs of local people with progressive life-limiting illnesses This includes rotational posts with organisations such as our local hospital and community trusts residential homes By supporting staff from these partner organisations to complete secondments or placements in our Inpatient Unit, we can support them in developing their palliative care skills, which enables them to care for more patients in their own setting reducing the needs for reliance on in-patient care either in an acute hospital or a hospice

Broadening the types and range of roles within our teams has been hugely beneficial to our organisation It allows us to make sure that the right person with the right skills is seeing each patient at the right time Identifying patients needs and matching them with the most relevant professional in the team is ensuring we have a multidisciplinary approach with a wide range of skills to support patient-centred holistic care This has reduced our reliance on registered nurses making up the majority of our clinical workforce and allowed us to continue delivering our vital services while setting out our ambitions for growing and strengthening services in the years to come ”

Not a Stepping Stone

‘Creating a Sustainable Skills Pipeline for Care’

At the risk of stating the blindingly obvious there is a serious staffing shortage in care This is being exacerbated by increased Government scrutiny over the recruitment of migrant workers not enough high quality new entrants to the profession and by high staff turnover with many older, experienced workers deciding that enough is enough and quitting

A pervasive culture of low-pay and low value placed on care workers isn t helping It is no surprise that according to Advanced’s Care Providers Trends Report 97% of care providers say they have problems recruiting staff and 98% have trouble with employee retention

It isn t a job for just anyone During the hiring process 60% of employers in our survey said they received high numbers of applications from unsuitable candidates It is imperative that care providers can find ways to reverse these trends drive more applications from suitable candidates attract more high-quality talent and hold onto those people nurturing their skills and commitment for the long-term Many skills can be taught and developed but the best carers have caring hardwired into their DNA These are the people we want working in the care sector as we try to ensure a sustainable safe future for users and employees

One of the solutions may lie in the Government’s push to phase out paper record-keeping and encourage the implementation of digital records within the adult social care sector The aim is to achieve 80% compliance within the year by March 2024 with full compliance as soon as possible afterwards These will improve outcomes for those receiving care minimise safety risks allow staff to respond to needs more quickly and to share important information quickly and securely

This drive is part of a greater need to digitalise processes within care provision organisations There is a need to attract more school and college leavers into the sector to start what will ideally become a long and fulfilling career This digital-native generation expects to use technology in their working lives, so it makes complete sense that employers who have already implemented the latest software that helps people do their jobs more effectively will attract the best of that new talent

It is also crucial that employers look after their existing staff ensuring continuity of care for their clients and retaining experienced mentors for new recruits These employees have a wealth of knowledge skills and experience that is vital for ensuring the delivery of high-quality care all clients deserve Disillusionment cannot be allowed to take root here

By Andy Croudace, Director of Innovation at Advanced Health and Care (www oneadvanced com)

documents can’t be mislaid or lost keeping the data within secure and making it easy for staff to refer to specific care plans record diet and hydration information and other details for more joined-up and seamless processes Digital records also offer more protection for staff when things go wrong as there is an irrefutable evidence trail that shows all procedures were followed correctly Demonstrating compliance for CQC and others is crucial in such a highly-regulated sector

Implementing a Learning and Development (L&D) programme for each employee not only ensures compliance with CQC requirements and those of other bodies but also demonstrates to employees that each of them is valued accordingly If we want people to look at care as a career not just a stepping stone we much ensure that long-term prospects and new opportunities are visible and attainable Performance management can be a headache for managers dealing with staff working on different shifts, or a largely remote and mobile domiciliary team Two-way conversations on digital platforms around targets for quality and delivery of care, recording and rewarding achievements as well as flagging any need for further training or support make it easier to monitor and manage individual performance

We need to take care of the carers Many are attracted to the sector because it allows them to have more flexibility with shifts and days worked so it is crucial that employers maintain staffing levels enabling people to work the hours they want Persistent understaffing impacts heavily on the remaining team, putting them under increased pressure and at greater risk of burnout Managers are affected too and 62% of care provider managers told us they felt stressed and unable to cope all or some of the time 36% of these said they would have to take time off sick in order to be able to cope The last thing a short-staffed care provider needs is management absence, piling even more pressure onto others

Digital solutions can transform rostering challenges helping manage unexpected sickness or late requests for unspent leave more effectively Sector-specific technology can also improve the problems with void management experienced by 95% of care providing organisations giving them better visibility over crucial occupancy rates 58% of the respondents in our survey have developed their own manual processes including spreadsheets to help give them advanced visibility of the business These tools provide out-dated information for inaccurate decision-making while Cloud-based technology could give them instant access to accommodation and occupancy in real time

Employers can use the data contained in their technology platforms to help them manage many of the day-to-day tasks more efficiently supporting more effective recruitment and higher retention rates Employee data can be a powerful tool in gaining deeper workforce insights, helping employers identify trends that can help them make better decisions This might be identifying the hardest-to-fill shifts and then making recruitment for those a priority Or it may shine a light on the circumstances that lead to higher rates of sickness absence helping leaders to locate specific problems and make changes to reduce them

Digital transformation is the key to improving the employee experience

Specifically-designed care sector technology can massively reduce time spent on paperwork digitalising processes so repetitive sections of forms can be completed automatically This gives staff more time to deliver care to clients Digital

In conclusion technology can help elevate the status of the care delivery role improving employee experience and developing talent for a sustainable pipeline of career-care providers www oneadvanced com/campaign/new/health-and-care/advanced-care-trends-report-2023/

RECRUITMENT

Recruiting Success with CVMinder ATS

Care recruiting is currently challenging So why is CVMinder ATS a great choice for Care Providers?

Stuart Haddow MD suggests that its Ambassador Customers make the biggest difference Ambassadors include senior HR leaders from the Care sector “They have proven to be great at overcoming recruiting headwinds says Stuart CVMinder’s Ambassador Customers also guide CVMinder product improvement programme

Using that great guidance delivers a competitive advantage for all CVMinder Care customers Jack Morgan of Local Solutions agrees CVMinder has made the process as smooth and as streamlined as possible That s is critical when recruiting in a

demanding sector like care It gives us central control of everything and the management information we generate from CVMinder has helped to improve our recruiting approach Without CVMinder our recruiting costs would be much higher and good candidates would be lost in the administration clutter ”

Donna Newell of The Kent Autistic Trust says “CVMinder ensures that we are being responsive to applicants and the demands of our managers Having a one stop shop means that we can post and update jobs at the touch of a button Receiving all applications online and using filter questions enables our recruiters to shortlist batches of applicants swiftly ”

T: 01634 202 101

E: enquiries@cvminder co uk

W: cvminder co uk/care

In Dire Need Of Experienced Health Care Assistant, Senior Carer Or A Nurse?

JJ Recruitment has the large database of well qualified applicants with experience in the healthcare industry such as health care assistants senior carers and nurses from overseas We also have an expert team of solicitors for the necessary legal proceedings and advices

WHY JJ?

• We have very minimal processing fees

We assist you to get a sponsorship license

Qualified and experienced candidates from

overseas Tel: 01704 808227

www jjcarerecruitment co uk

admin@jjrecruitment co uk