The Carer Digital - Issue #174

FOR NURSING AND RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES

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Issue 174

Dementia is “The UK’s Biggest Killer”... ...and Biggest Health Crisis of Our Time Research Reveals

New analysis from Alzheimer’s Research UK, has confirmed that dementia continues to be the UK’s leading cause of death, accounting for more than one in ten of all deaths across the country. In total, dementia claimed more than 74,000 lives.

Alzheimer’s Research pulled together the latest data from the three agencies

that track official causes of death across the country – the Office for National Statistics (which covers England and Wales), the National Records of Scotland and the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency – to uncover the full scale of dementia’s impact across the UK.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 3...)

PAGE 2 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

Dementia once again takes centre stage following a report released by Alzheimer's Research UK that casts a stark light on the unsettling truth: Dementia has now claimed the disheartening title of the UK's leading cause of death.

Regular readers will possibly remember that I have often referred to my own experiences in the 1980s when my mother succumbed to this dreadful condition.

That was “back in the day” when the disease was relatively unknown. As a young man in my 20s I had certainly never heard of it and just observed as my mother became more and more forgetful and Editor confused. This was also a time when getting forgetful and confused was dismissed as “part and parcel of growing old”.

We had no diagnosis. However, I watched a TV documentary about Hollywood actress Angie Dickinson (famous for her TV detective role as “Pepper Anderson”).

She was the patron of an Alzheimer’s charity in America because her younger sister had Alzheimer’s. 10 minutes into watching this program I knew that was the condition my mother had. As a family we took it to social services and had to really push hard for recognition of my mother’s condition and help.

Unfortunately she had a very aggressive form of dementia, which ultimately led to her death, and I have followed the condition with great interest ever since.

Today’s news is truly disheartening, and we must look at the profound impact the person suffering with the condition and on families, the strain on the UK economy, the gender disparity in the affliction, and the glimmer of hope that emerges on the horizon with innovative treatments.

The impact of dementia on families across the nation cannot be overstated. The emotional toll, the strain on relationships, and the exhaustive caregiving responsibilities create an intricate web of challenges. For every individual diagnosed with dementia, there is a network of loved ones grappling with the heart-wrenching journey of witnessing their once-vibrant family member gradually slip away. Our society must acknowledge and address the pressing need for comprehensive support systems to assist these families in navigating the often isolating and overwhelming landscape of dementia care.

Beyond the personal sphere, the economic ramifications of dementia loom large. The financial burden of providing care, medical expenses, and lost productivity in the workforce collectively contribute to a considerable strain on the UK economy. As our lead story indicates over £25 billion per year and set to rise year on year.

Peter Adams

PUBLISHED BY RBC Publishing Ltd 3 Carlton Mount 2 Cranborne Road Bournemouth Dorset BH2 5BR

TELEPHONE:

01202 552333 (6 lines)

Fax: 01202 552666 Email: sales@thecareruk.com As we grapple with this reality, it becomes imperative for the next government in 2024 to prioritize investment in research, caregiving infrastructure, and accessible resources that can alleviate the economic toll on families and the nation as a whole, and, on that note, once the election is announced we intend to write to each party and invite them to set out their manifesto with respect to adult social care to our readers.

The report sheds light on a particularly concerning aspect: women bear a disproportionately higher burden of dementia compared to men, and dementia rates are 22% high-

WEBSITE: www.thecareruk.com EDITOR Peter Adams

er among black people in the UK compared to white people, while black and South Asian

SALES EXECUTIVES

dementia patients die younger, and sooner after diagnosis, according to a 2022 study.

Sylvia Mawson

Unravelling the reasons behind this gender/racial disparity is crucial for developing

David Bartlett

targeted interventions and support systems. As we confront this silent struggle, it is time to prioritize research and awareness campaigns that address the unique challenges faced by women, both as caregivers and individuals living with dementia.

Amidst the sombre revelations, there is a glimmer of hope emanating from the horizon.

Advances in research and medical science bring forth the promise of innovative treatments and interventions that could transform the landscape of dementia care. It is imper-

Guy Stephenson PRODUCTION & DESIGN Matthew Noades

ative that any government of the day support the healthcare sector, researchers, and

PRODUCTION & WEB ADMIN

policymakers to collaborate in harnessing this potential, ensuring that these break-

Charlene Fox

throughs translate into tangible improvements in the lives of those affected by dementia.

As we grapple with the profound implications of Alzheimer's Research's report, let us collectively strive to foster a society that supports, understands, and empowers those touched by dementia. By addressing the challenges head-on, advocating for change, and embracing the promise of emerging treatments, we can collectively pave the way toward a future where the devastating impact of dementia is mitigated, and hope prevails.

Once again we have this week had some wonderful uplifting and heartwarming stories from care homes throughout the UK, so please do keep them coming.

I can always be contacted at editor@thecareruk.com

The Carer is published by RBC Publishing Ltd, 3 Carlton Mount, 2 Cranborne Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH2 5BR. Contributions are welcome for consideration, however, no responsibility will be accepted for loss or damage. Views expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or the editorial team. Whilst every care is taken when compiling this publication to ensure accuracy, the publisher will assume no responsibility for any effects, errors or omissions therefrom. All rights reserved, reproduction is forbidden unless written permission is obtained. All material is assumed copyright free unless otherwise advised.

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THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 3

Dementia is “The UK’s Biggest Killer”... ...and Biggest Health Crisis of Our Time Research Reveals (CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

development for mild cognitive impairment associated with early or mild Alzheimer’s disease. One of these treatments, lecanemab, recently received regulatory approval in the US and Japan.

A second, donanemab, has also shown that it can slow the rate of progression of Alzheimer’s disease in trial data published earlier this year.

Neither of these treatments represent a cure, and both come with some potential side effects (including risks of brain bleeds and swelling) which will need to be carefully weighed up by clinicians and patients. The treatments appear to slow (rather than stop or reverse) the rate of cognitive decline of people with early symptoms. While reported clinical benefits in published trials are relatively modest, these drugs do mark a real breakthrough in the way early Alzheimer’s disease might be treated in the future.

Recognising the significance of these medicines, this summer our Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard announced that NHS England had established a dedicated national programme team for early Alzheimer’s treatments.

Working across the NHS, including with local health systems, industry partners, patient groups, research organisations, regulators and more, the team is working to prepare the health system for the potential arrival of treatments that receive the necessary UK regulatory approvals.

WOMEN AT GREATER RISK Dementia affects women more than men, it has been the leading cause of death in women in the UK since 2011, with women continuing to be at greater risk last year, with 48,000 dying from the condition compared with over 26,000 men.

Among the devolved nations, Northern Ireland had the highest dementia death rate at 11.8%, compared with 11.4% in England and Wales, and 10% in Scotland.

The research also reveals that over the past two decades, deaths from many major common conditions, including heart disease, lung cancer and cerebrovascular disease (which includes strokes and aneurysms) have fallen. At the same time, deaths from dementia have risen.

Commenting on the study Shelle Luscombe who lost both her parents to dementia said: “Seeing the impact dementia had on my dad and then my mum was devastating. It’s a cruel condition and, as things stand, anyone diagnosed faces a very bleak and terrifying one-way street, which wreaks havoc on the whole family,” she told us.

“This new analysis from Alzheimer’s Research UK is a massive wake-up call. We need action now if we’re to stand a chance of changing the outcome for the next generation and beyond”.

BRINGING HOPE Alzheimer's Research UK says that recent research breakthroughs in treatment and diagnosis are finally bringing hope that one day a cure can be found. But sustaining this momentum needs greater ambition from the current and future governments to reach a future free from dementia. The charity has set out a series of recommendations in its report, Tipping Point: The Future of Dementia, which outlines the actions needed to transform the way dementia is prevented, diagnosed, and treated, and to ultimately find a cure.

Recommendations in the report include to: 1. Create a cross-governmental ‘Strategy for the Prevention of Ill Health’ to address the health and lifestyle factors that affect our risk of developing dementia. For example, exposure to air pollution, and unmanaged hearing loss.

2. Commit to investing £16m in diagnostic infrastructure, equipment, and workforce training, including 50 new band 6/7 nurses across the UK. This should be followed by sustained annual investment of £10m until new diagnostic tools, like blood tests, are ready to replace existing methods like lumbar punctures.

3. Instruct the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to consider the cost of informal care and carer’s quality of life, when assessing the cost-effectiveness of new dementia treatments for the NHS. 4. Establish the UK as a world leader in dementia research by capitalising on initiatives such as the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission and increase research opportunities for people to participate.

NEW TREATMENTS NHS England has been closely monitoring a pipeline of new disease modifying treatments (DMTs) in

STARK PICTURE Hilary Evans, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK said, ‘This new data paints a stark picture of the scale and impact of dementia across the UK, and unfortunately, it’s not surprising. We fear these figures are likely an underestimate because many people with dementia don’t even receive a formal diagnosis. Data on who gets diagnosed and where is frustratingly incomplete, and this makes dementia a huge blind spot for healthcare decision-makers and politicians.’

Evans added, ‘Dementia is the biggest health crisis of our time, casting a dark shadow over the near million people affected by the condition in the UK. Not only does it bring fear, heartbreak, and harm to the ones we love, but it’s also having a huge impact on our economy.’

BIGGEST CHALLENGE James White, Head of National Influencing at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “These statistics are a clear reminder of how far-reaching and devastating dementia is and should raise loud alarm bells for urgent action.

“One in three people will develop dementia yet hundreds of thousands of people across the UK aren't even being diagnosed. Getting a specific and early diagnosis is the missing piece of the puzzle, so people can benefit from the vital treatment, care and support they deserve.

“Dementia is the biggest health and social care challenge of our time. Government must improve diagnosis rates and end the devastation that dementia causes for the 900,000 people who are living with the condition and the millions more who love and care for them. People with dementia can’t wait any longer for the Government to make dementia a priority."

Currently, dementia costs the UK £25bn annually, with loved ones providing over one billion hours of unpaid care to those living with dementia.

PAGE 4 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

ChatGPT and the Adult Care System - We Need To Be Aware Of The Limitations Nourish Care’s Chief Product Officer Jeremy Baldwin on why the care sector should be careful in rushing to adopt AI There are many great examples of AI being used to positive effect in health and social care leading some care providers to look at open platforms like ChatGPT to generate care plans and make calls on tech providers to build into their systems. I get the attraction but we shouldn’t rush in.

Yes, plans created through ChatGPT can read really well and appear person-centred, saving time, and improving the perceived standard of the plans generated, but there are significant data privacy, clinical safety and quality issues to consider. These relate to how and when the AI is being used, who or what is making the decision and who is responsible if something goes wrong.

A single care provider deciding to accept these risks in their own clinical safety cases is one thing while setting best practice by integrating into systems such as Nourish that are used at scale across the sector is quite another.

A common understanding of AI is technology performing human tasks and decisions. At the most basic level, asking the AI to perform a specific, usually administrative, but cognitive task like writing a report through to the AI automating decisions or tasks based on a set of rules and then to autonomous applications where the AI is doing both the decision making and action without intervention - care delivering robots, which begs the question, will the human be replaced? Can you take the human out of health care? Or perhaps put another way can the AI care?

In reality, this is all a long way off in the care sector, if it happens at all. The careful, considered and responsible adoption of AI will reap benefits but, as always, will take longer to manifest than we think.

Automation in our digital systems is nothing new. It’s core to Nourish and how we are developing best practice to help ensure that the right things happen at the right time.

What’s changed is the availability of open language models like ChatGPT. They are trained to understand natural language, intent, and context for the action or decision and can respond with human-style conversation. This makes them useful and attractive.

Using ChatGPT to give better structure to a care plan, and make it easier for others to consume is fine as is using it as a starting point for personalised care plans but not if it’s being used to generate the plan from scratch.

A ChatBot that makes it easier to access and understand information from a defined source — such as an individual’s personalised care plan and record — and is really powerful, but caution should be applied if this ends up being advice or recommendation based on data from multiple, open sources. Where is this data coming from? What happens if there is a conflict? Which fact (or more likely opinion) should I use?

Nourish is advancing rapidly and one of the biggest areas of growth is integrations. What will revolutionise care is the use of devices and wearables, along with home automation devices that allow us to improve care in community settings, particularly in people’s homes. It’s a huge technological leap. All of these things become part of the puzzle in being able to identify what normal looks like for this person and to be able to identify and monitor anomalies. This makes it easier to identify those at greatest risk, or urgent need and manage resourcing accordingly.

AI will continue to grow and Nourish is effectively creating a model of what good social care looks like.

We’re ideally placed to do that as we’re instrumental in providing digital care support in almost a quarter (24%) of the market, which gives us access to a huge dataset that is growing all the time. AI modelling of these data sets over time, will inform better practice but we still need human beings to make those important care decisions.

Automations that reduce the burden on care teams for administrative, reporting and compliance have to be a good - and safe thing. Automated workflows that guide and nudge on the next best action will lead to faster and better interventions, but caution is needed if this strays into the generation and application of treatment plans or response to an event.

This need to keep decision-making in human hands won’t hinder advancement. Those predicting that we will be cared for by robots and automated systems in a few years' time will be proven wrong. It’s not going to be futuristic care of the imagination, it will be slow because the system is slow. There is still a very long way to go and one thing I predict is that we’ll seriously underestimate the impact that AI will have on social care in the future.

ABOUT NOURISH CARE Nourish is the leading provider of digital care management software in the UK. Nourish 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 technology 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.

www.nourishcare.com

Veterans Sing Busker’s Praise After Surbiton Care Home Performances A singer has become a hit at a Surbiton care home after being spotted busking by a member of staff Archie McKeown has become a regular performer at Royal Star & Garter since he was spotted singing in Kingston Market Place by the Home’s Wellbeing Coordinator Lesley O’Driscoll.

Archie wows residents with a selection of classics, ranging from Broadway, to opera, to Elvis. Among the favourites sung at Royal Star & Garter are Bring Him Home, Edelweiss, Nessun Dorma, Can’t Help Falling in Love and Moon River.

Explaining how he came to sing at Royal Star & Garter, Lesley said: “I was shopping in Kingston and all of a sudden I saw this young man singing, and he had the most extraordinary voice. I was blown away. I quickly checked that I could invite him to sing at the Home, and then introduced myself to him. I told him where I worked and who we cared for, and asked if he’d sing for us. I’m delighted he said yes. The resi-

dents love listening to him, and so do the staff!”

Archie said: “It was a pleasant surprise when I was approached by Lesley. I was very flattered.” The 23-year-old enjoys lots of busking, is part of a wedding band, and also writes and performs his own music.

But he says he gets a special thrill from performing at Royal Star & Garter: “I love it. When I busk, people are on the go. When I sing at weddings, it’s kind of hectic. But at Royal Star & Garter I feel that I’m singing to people that are really listening and appreciate what I’m doing. It’s a lovely atmosphere at the Home, the residents are really friendly and I always feel very welcome. Some come up to me after I’ve finished and say they enjoyed the performance, which means the world to me. I’ll never take compliments for granted!”

Among his many fans at Royal Star & Garter is Air Force veteran Vera. She said: “I think he’s superb. I would like to be his agent!”

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Through ‘single card switching’ technology, it allows carers or support teams to effortlessly handle the finances of multiple clients with just one card. This not only simplifies processes but also reduces administrative burdens significantly – Cleva clients are now saving over 70 minutes of admin time, per client per month!

UNLOCK NEW REVENUE STREAMS Cleva is also proven to boost revenue by enabling organisations to offer a chargeable shopping service to clients, creating a valuable additional income stream. With time and resource saving as well as an extra income opportunity, it makes Cleva an indispensable tool for enhancing the financial health of organisations.

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For vulnerable users who want to spend their own money, Cleva provides access to choice and a way for them to spend in a monitored and safe environment, with no risk of becoming overdrawn or overwhelmed. Bespoke spending controls can be added to each vulnerable users’ card, and their carer or support team can also have a Cleva card to help with spending, if needed.

TRANSPARENCY AND SAFEGUARDING Cleva goes beyond financial efficiency and fosters a safe and transparent environment for both carers and organisations. With complete accuracy and visibility in the app and management platform, false allegations of theft become a thing of the past. When surveyed, 100% of organisations felt more confident in safeguarding their employees at work thanks to Cleva.

Crowned winner of the 2023 National Care Awards, in the Tech Innovation of the Year category, Cleva really is showcasing the power of technology merged with care experts in an underserved industry.

Ready to find out more? Click here: clevacard.com/thecarer

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 5

Care Chief Voices Fears For Sector Over Plans To Cut Net Migration New plans to cut net migration will mean separating overseas care workers from their families and could destabilise the vulnerable social care sector, says Dorset care chief Kevin Gunputh, CEO of LuxuryCare Group, which runs six care homes in Bournemouth and Poole.

He has spoken out in response to the Home Secretary’s announcement setting out a raft of new policies designed to cut net migration by 300,000 – including barring migrant care workers from bringing in dependants from next April.

Kevin Gunputh, who employs 600 staff across his homes, is also concerned that the already vulnerable care sector, where high vacancy rates are a perpetual problem, will be hit hard by the policies, which could deter workers coming in from overseas.

He said: “This strikes me as rather a heartless step by our government, the implications of which haven’t been fully considered – either on the macro level, taking account of the risk of destabilising the social care sector, and at an individual level, because it fails to take into account the impact this will have on families.

“This change means that care workers with spouses and children will either give up on coming to work in the UK or be forced to make a huge personal sacrifice to do so – leaving their loved ones behind.

“That will have massive consequences for their mental health and wellbeing – not to mention the added financial burden of maintaining two family homes and trying to fund visits.”

The announcement comes less than two years since skilled worker visas were opened up to overseas care workers to tackle record staff shortages in the UK. The number of health and care visas doubled to

143,990 in the year to September, and resulted in 173,896 dependants coming to the UK. But the sector still has 152,000 vacancies currently, and remains vulnerable.

Added Kevin: “Overseas staff have played a very significant role in UK care homes post-Brexit. They’ve been crucial in filling the gap in our sector, but we are far from out of the woods and this policy could really set us back.

“Time and again the government overlooks our sector, failing to fully grasp the challenges we face, our needs, and those of the people we support. We are still crying out for government investment and a long-term workforce plan.

“It is so important the vital role we fulfil is recognised; a social care staffing crisis, which is a real threat in the wake of these new policies, could have a domino effect. Without enough staff for care homes, we risk operational issues and bed shortages, which in turn could impact the NHS and the general public.

“Sadly, those paying the biggest price will ultimately be those people who rely on the care and support our sector provides. Those we care for are always my number one priority, and I am ready to fight for them. I intend to work with colleagues in my sector and challenge the government on this.”

Under the plans announced by James Cleverly last week the salary threshold workers will need to meet in order to obtain a visa will be raised to £38,700, up from £26,200 – although health and social care sector workers will be exempt from meeting this. The salary threshold for spousal visas will also be raised. In addition, employers will no longer be able to pay overseas workers less than UK employees in sectors where staff are in short supply.

Share Your Christmas Celebrations with THE CARER to Win! Christmas is coming and we here at THE CARER are offering care homes the opportunity to win A PRIZE FOR YOU AND YOUR CARE HOME. We invited Care Homes around the UK to share your Christmas celebrations with us here at THE CARER for Christmas 2022 and we are inviting you to do the same this year!

This years’ prize is £100 in Marks & Spencer vouchers for a lucky care home winner!

A no-frills competition, nothing complicated, or we invite you to do is send

in your Christmas celebrations, anything between December 24 and 31st, parties, menus, activities, fundraising and we will pick a winner - it really is that simple!

So please do send to nominate@thecareruk.com with a small paragraph of what you did along with some photos and we will share them with our readers in a special Christmas care Home supplement!

One of our lucky entrants will then be chosen to receive the grand prize!

Entries close at midnight on Friday 5th January 2024.

PAGE 6 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

The Advantages of Storing Vaccines and Medicines Properly Storing vaccines and medicines properly not only protects products and residents’ health – it can also take the pressure off busy staff, says Peter Sanders, Business Unit Manager for medical refrigeration specialist Lec Medical (www.lec-medical.co.uk/en-gb) A wide variety of the drugs administered in nursing homes need to be kept in refrigerated conditions. In addition to vaccines, these include insulins, cancer drugs, antibiotic liquids and some pharmaceutical creams.

They are classed as ‘cold chain’ products and must be stored in medical refrigerators, at temperatures between 2ºC and 8ºC, at all times.

Maintaining a stable temperature is essential as the active chemicals in all vaccines and some other medication can change in molecular form when exposed to temperatures which are too high or too low. For example, a vaccine stored outside its recommended temperature will biodegrade more quickly, making it less effective and potentially putting patients at risk.

The CQC sets out clear guidance on how cold chain vaccines and medicines should be managed. This includes stringent requirements on recording fridge temperatures, including: • Completing temperature recordings on a daily basis • Recording minimum, maximum and current temperatures • Resetting the thermometer after each reading • Ensuring staff understand the recommended temperature range, how and why they must read and reset the thermometer, and what to do if the fridge temperature falls outside the recommended range • Keeping records of any actions taken Temperature monitoring is vital but it is a labour and time intensive job which can be quite onerous for staff members who must often fit it in among a raft of other responsibilities. Human error can creep into reporting procedures, while simple actions such as leaving the door open for too long can also inadvertently increase fridge temperatures.

However, the inbuilt technology offered by modern medical refrigerators can remove these risks, while also ensuring the highest standards of safety.

Advanced medical refrigerators, such as the Lec Pharmacy Plus range, use smart technology to enable completely contactless temperature readings. It allows remote monitoring and reports can be downloaded directly to a phone or tablet and shared with approved personnel directly, via an app.

The datalogging and reporting offer a huge time-saving benefit by eliminating the need for manual temperature recording, as well as being far more accurate.

Lec Medical has developed dual air and load probes to deliver the pinpoint temperature measurement

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vital to storing sensitive vaccines and medicines.

The first probe monitors the internal temperature of the fridge, while a second probe sits within a silicon oil formulated to mimic a vaccine. It means the temperature of the vaccine is monitored – not just the fridge temperature.

This gives an added level of assurance if there are any power outages or a door is left open as the data will show if the fridge contents have fallen outside the recommended temperature ranges at any point.

An intelligent fan management system also prevents warm air being drawn in when the fridge door is open and automatically restarts when it closes, ensuring temperatures remain stable, while a power failure alarm with battery back-up and data retention offers added peace of mind.

The QCQ stresses the need to select a medical fridge that is capable of maintaining the correct temperature for the medicines being stored, warning that: “Some fridges are advertised as ‘medicines fridges’ but they may maintain temperatures in ranges that are too low or too high.”

The cost of a professional medical refrigerator need not be prohibitive. A variety of sizes and capacity levels, from 47 litres to 400 litres, means correct refrigeration can be achieved even when small numbers of medical products need to be stored.

Important factors to consider to ensure your medicines fridge operates at the highest levels of efficiency include: • Do not fill it to more than 75% capacity to allow adequate air circulation • Never store anything other than vaccines and other pharmaceutical products in it – items such as blood, food, or milk present a contamination risk • Site the fridge in a well-ventilated room maintained between 10°C and 25 C, away from radiators or direct sunlight, and at least 5-10 cm from walls or units An estimated £300 million of NHS prescribed medicines are wasted every year. By selecting the correct medical refrigerator you can ensure that expensive products and, most important, resident health, is protected.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 7

7 In10 Councils Now Unsure If They Can Balance Their Budget Next Year England’s largest councils say they are in ‘significantly worse’ financial position than before the Autumn Statement, as a new survey reveals that local authorities now plan more severe cuts and seven in ten now no longer confident they can balance their budget next year.

In the lead up to the Autumn Statement, the County Councils Network (CCN) warned that its members were under extreme financial pressure. The authorities they represent were set to overspend by almost £650m this year due to spiralling costs, particularly in children’s social care and home to school transport, which was contributing to a £4bn funding deficit for those authorities over the next three years.

However, with no new core funding announced for councils coupled with an increase in the National Living Wage – which is set to cost those local authorities around £230m next year – nine in 10 councils in a snap CCN survey said that they were now in a ‘significantly worse’ position. This is because this extra cost burden is on top of significant savings targets councils already had.

In a joint letter outlining their concerns, over 30 leaders of those councils have written to Levelling up Secretary Michael Gove, warning that failure to rectify the situation and provide additional funding for children’s services would mean councils are likely to face the prospect of outlining painful reductions to frontline services.

In addition, they say they could have to raise council tax to the maximum permitted and use their reserves – leaving them at unsustainable levels – to balance budgets.

The CCN’s survey shows the impact of those warnings: with councils now planning for deeper service cuts and higher council tax rises following the Autumn Statement. Five in ten authorities now plan even more reductions to services than they were before and nine in ten suggesting they will now levy maximum council tax rises of 4.99%.

But even this many not be enough, with more councils now concerned they will be unable to balance their budgets. Before the Autumn Statement, four in ten of these councils were not confident they could balance their budget, with the survey revealing this figure has risen to seven in ten.

Last week, Nottingham City Council was the latest local authority to issue a Section 114 Notice over the last 18 months. Whilst that council, alongside others like Birmingham City Council, had very specific financial issues, the CCN is warning that even well managed local authorities could follow suit in the coming years, such is the extent to their financial challenge.

To avoid this scenario – or severe reductions to local services – county leaders are calling on the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities to provide more funding for councils in the forthcoming Local Government Finance Settlement, due to be unveiled this month.

The snap CCN survey lays bare the extent of the challenge facing local authorities currently: - Due to announcements in the Autumn Statement, such as the minimum wage increase, nine in ten councils said they were in a worse position than before. Five in ten councils said that now need to make even more cuts as a result.

- When asked what type of service reductions were more likely seven in ten councils said they would have to propose staff reductions, whilst the same number also said they were now more likely to cut adult social care services and school transport services.

- Five in ten councils said they now were more likely to pause or cancel major economic growth and regeneration projects, such as leisure centres, as well as closing and/or changing the opening hours of both libraries and household waste and recycling centres.

- Based on the survey’s responses, the increase in the National Living Wage is set to cost an average £6.3m per county local authority and £230m for all of those councils.

- When asked how they would fund the minimum wage increase, eight in ten councils said service reductions and four in ten said higher council tax rises. Before the Autumn Statement, seven in ten councils said they planned to levy the maximum 4.99% council tax rise, with this now rising to nine in ten.

- But even these measures together – as well as use of ‘rainy day’ reserves – might not be enough, as CCN’s temperature check on its councils’ budgets shows. Before the Autumn Statement, four in ten councils were unsure or not confident of delivering a balanced budget in 2024/25 but this has now risen to seven in ten.

Looking further ahead, almost eight in ten local authorities are unsure or not confident of setting a balanced budget in 2025/26.

Cllr Barry Lewis, Finance Spokesperson for the County Councils Network, said: “We understand that public finances are tight but the Autumn Statement provided no further funding to help ease the existing financial pressures for councils – pressures which are largely outside of our control. In fact, those have been added to with the increase in the National Living Wage, adding hundreds of millions to our budgets.

“When finalising the Local Government Finance Settlement later this month, the government must address those pressures with additional funding focused on children’s social care and school transport services.”

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PAGE 8 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

Why Demonstrating Leadership Matters In The Care Sector

By Emma O’Connor, Legal Director and Head of Training, Boyes Turner (www.boyesturner.com)

We have own views as to what makes a “good” leader. We may have examples of a good leader or may have had been fortunate enough to have worked for one. In today’s UK care sector, leadership can make the difference between a thriving organisation, rooted in a people-first culture and committed to the people it’s there to serve, or one reacting to one compliance issue to the next.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD LEADER? For me, organisations need leaders who can lead by example, who can deliver against targets and who can work collaboratively often in difficult business situations. Organisations also rely on leaders to deliver important messages and be the conduit between senior leadership and staff. But being a purposeful and inspiring leader does not (often) happen by accident.

Good leaders are shaped by their own experiences or hone their skills through various workplace challenges. Many are promoted to leadership for being good at their job and not necessarily for being a good “team player”. The list of responsibilities and expectations on leaders may seem unrealistic or overwhelming, particularly if one thinks about the enormous challenges the care sector faces. However, why does demonstrating good leadership skills matter in the care sector and what makes a “good” leader?

VISION FIRST Leadership is about vision. Vision involves identifying who you are as an organisation and deciding what “success” looks like. This could be looking at where you are in the marketplace or thinking about what the organisation’s “brand” says about it to current/perspective clients and/or its workforce. Are you where you want to be? Are you a “destination employer”? What does your business need to reach the next level?

Next, what are your goals? These could be overarching – to provide excellent care services to our clients – or could be more team focused, such as setting individual targets.

And how are you as a leader going to motivate, inspire and engage your colleagues and team to achieve these goals? Working in care is a tough environment at the best of times. With the skills crisis, post-covid fall-out and so much of the care community made up of international workers, your people will be navigating both work and personal challenges on a daily basis.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS AS ESSENTIALS To achieve your businesses’ vision and goals, leaders need to be able to communicate to their peers, to their teams and to the wider world. Communication is a key leadership skill. Communication can be verbal but also involves non-verbal communication skills. Being aware of not just what is said but how it is said, being aware of one’s body language, are equally important. Especially in the care home environment.

Being a good communicator allows a leader to deliver messages clearly which in turn reduces confusion and conflict amongst teams; it can help build rapport and trust. Good communicators can help encourage creativity and problem solving within teams. Communication may also be about delivering difficult messages or explaining challenging situations, which is particularly pertinent in the care sector, whilst bringing people along with you.

A CULTURE WHERE PEOPLE THRIVE Good leaders – by having a clear vision and clear communication skills – foster good relations which help develop an open workplace culture where colleagues can thrive. Knowing where you are going as a business, or as an individual, understanding the vision and expectations can help to forge a strong and purposeful culture with each person working together to overcome challenges and achieve success. When people feel valued and supported, they are more engaged. A more engaged workforce is more productive. Simple.

Culture comes from the top, so it is important that messages are clearly communicated downwards to all levels of leadership and staff.

Lastly, leading by example. We want our leaders to uphold the business’s values, to ensure they comply with workplace policies and to expect this in others. We want our leaders to comply with industry standards and legal requirements – not to cut corners or to shirk responsibilities. Leadership decisions should be open and transparent, and leaders should demand high expectations from their teams and colleagues as they should demand of themselves.

The challenges to the care sector - from funding issues to recruitment - are ones that many businesses and managers cannot control. However, as the saying goes: people leave a manager and not a job. If leaders can improve their skills, they may be the role models for future managers in the sector.

Athena Care Homes Sponsors Second Season of Girls’ Schools Football League Athena Care Homes are to continue their sponsorship of a newly established girls’ football league for a second season.

The care home operator, who run Amberley Hall and Goodwins Hall in Lynn, have partnered with Alive King’s Lynn Community Football in a bid to encourage more girls to play the sport.

This season, up to eight local schools will be invited to join the 7-aside league with fixtures taking place at Lynnsport’s 3G pitches to allow year-round play.

Schools will have the opportunity to bring squads of up to 10 girls from Years 5 and 6 to compete in monthly fixtures, as well as the new ‘Athena Care Homes Community Cup’ event at the end of the season.

The sponsorship means that the league is free to enter and it is hoped it will inspire a new generation of young female players locally, giving them a taste of the thrill that accompanies competitive sport.

James Eley, Marketing Manager at Athena Care Homes, said: “Football and inclusivity are both impor-

tant to our residents. When we had the opportunity to renew our support for the girls’ league for a second season, we jumped at the chance. We want our homes to be a central part of the community and leave a lasting impact, and this is just one of the ways which we’re achieving that. We know many of the residents at Amberley Hall and Goodwins Hall are huge football fans and enjoyed welcoming the girls to our homes and seeing the league grow and progress.”

Tommy Goode, Head of Performance and Development at Alive West Norfolk, said: “We are delighted to be working with Athena Care Homes on the girls’ school football leagues initiative for the second season. Athena’s support will certainly break down barriers making football accessible to a number of girls in West Norfolk.

“Girls’ football really took off last season at Alive KLCF and we are grateful for the ongoing support from Athena. We hope the residents at Athena Care Homes and the West Norfolk community enjoy following the league’s progress.”

Catherine House Care Home Transforms Into Enchanting Winter Wonderland Catherine House Care Home, nestled in the heart of Frome, transformed into a magical Winter Wonderland on Friday 24th November, spreading warmth and joy to the local community as part of the town’s Christmas festivities.

The care home, known for its commitment to fostering a sense of community, curated a festive experience by organising market stalls that showcased the talent and creativity of local businesses. Visitors were treated to a delightful array of products, including exquisite resin jewellery, delectable jams and chutneys, and enchanting flower arrangements, among other treasures.

The market stalls not only provided an opportunity for local businesses to

showcase their wares but also offered residents, who are fondly known as family members, and visitors a unique shopping experience filled with holiday cheer.

Adding to the festive spirit, Catherine House Care Home hosted its very own Christmas lights switch-on ceremony. The honour of illuminating the home with the radiant glow of holiday lights was bestowed upon Hilary Crabtree, a beloved family member of the care home. The joyous occasion brought smiles to the faces of all present, creating unforgettable memories for residents, families, and staff alike.

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CQC Begins Rollout of New Assessment Framework The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has announced that it has begun the roll out of its a new assessment framework in the South region with ‘early adopter’ care providers who volunteered to take part.

Over the next few months, the rollout will continue region by region, with the CQC contacting providers with information as they begin in each one.

From 21 November, the CQC started using the new approach with a small number of providers across various types of service and sectors, and used planned assessments during this period and will use the feedback from these providers to help shape its new approach.

After an on-site inspection, one provider said: “So far the process has been communicated really well, obviously there have been a few teething issues but our main assessor/inspector has communicated honestly with us about this. The honest

open communication has been the best part of the process so far.”

THE CHANGES INCLUDE: A new section of guidance for providers: our new approach to assessment. including:

KEY QUESTIONS AND QUALITY STATEMENTS - Evidence categories - How we’ll use people’s experiences of health and care - The role of I statements - How we’ll assess quality and performance.

This includes how we’ll: - gather evidence - reach a rating - enable factual accuracy checks - publish findings.

The CQC will also provide guidance on how the assessment process will work.

Care Home Residents Enjoy A Christmas Singalong With Vocal Coach Dan Cooper Staff and residents at Austen House care home in Lower Earley, Readingwere treated to a fun-packed hour in the company of choir leader and vocal coach to the stars, Dan Cooper, who taught them to sing two feel-good Christmas classics: ‘Step into Christmas’ by Elton John and ‘Last Christmas’ by Wham!

In partnership with Biiah, Dan delivers regular singing events through their virtual platform which encourages people to sing for their wellbeing. A professional choir leader and vocal coach with over 10 years’ experience, Dan runs a successful choir; Love Soul Choir, and is co-director of a children’s group; Sound Pop Academy. In 2019, his choir performed with Take That. He’s also worked on TV shows as a vocal coach including BBC’s ‘Little Mix The Search’ and is passionate about the positive impact that singing in a group has on wellbeing. Dan truly believes in the power of singing and wants more people to experience the joy it can bring.

Dan comments: “I have the best job in the world. I am never happier than when I am teaching people to sing and seeing how happy it makes them. It was an absolute privilege to spend the afternoon with the

Barchester residents and teach them these fantastic Christmas songs.”

Bex Vernon, Resident Experience Executive for Barchester Healthcare, adds: “We are excited to work with super-talented people like Dan to bring a wide range of different experiences into our homes for all to enjoy, it was wonderful to see the joy on all of our residents’ faces as Dan taught them how to sing these Christmas classics.

“Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active and socially connected, providing a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities,” Bex added.

Operations Manager, Joleen Leung, says: “Our residents absolutely loved their Christmastime singing session with Dan, it was so festive. We all love a good singalong and it was great to get Dan’s hints and tips on how we can improve our technique.

We loved his energy and positivity!”

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Scrooge Council Awarded Wooden Spoon In PPE Row A council has been awarded a wooden spoon for paying the lowest care home fees in Wales and refusing to hand out free personal protective equipment even though it’s been paid for by the Welsh Government.

According to social care champions Care Forum Wales (CFW), Denbighshire County Council deserve to be named and shamed because they are “literally the lowest of the low in terms of their meanness of spirit which would even make Ebenezer Scrooge blush with embarrassment”.

An investigation by CFW revealed that the six North Wales local authorities were at the bottom of the league table for paying the lowest rates for residential care.

According to the Chair, Mario Kreft MBE, it was clear that they were operating a fee-fixing cartel because the lowest five were paying exactly the same amount, £711.83 per person, per week for fully regulated care.

The only exception in North Wales was last year’s wooden spoon recipient Flintshire County Council which pays marginally more, £727.55, placing the authority sixth from bottom.

It all adds up, says Mr Kreft, to a growing North-South divide with the betrayal of elderly and vulnerable care home residents in Denbighshire and the rest of North Wales who are being treated with “utter contempt”.

As a result, a care home in Denbighshire receives £10,432 less per resident, per year than a care home in parts of South Wales.

In a 50-bed care home that’s a difference of more than £500,000 a year for providing exactly the same level of service and being subjected to the same regulations.

Mr Kreft said: “We could have given the wooden spoon, which recognises the meanest local authority which pays the lowest residential care home fees, to any one of five North Wales councils because they are joint bottom of the league of shame.

“Last year it was awarded to Flintshire who are slightly out of the frame this year and this year it’s Denbighshire who deserve to be branded as the Scrooge council, although it must be said that the fees in Flintshire are still abysmally low.

“What tipped the balance was that Denbighshire Council is the only North Wales council to turn down the offer of free PPE from the Welsh Government who recognised the importance of protecting vulnerable people and staff in care homes. It’s an open and shut case.

“Members of the Senedd, particularly those who represent North Wales, should not turn a blind eye to this injustice.

“When you look at care homes in Denbighshire, they are almost without exception small and medium-sized local businesses – family-run organisations like most of our economy in North Wales.

“They provide crucial services to their communities, often reflecting the local culture and language , as well as providing vital support to families in the run up to Christmas so the way they are being treated is truly shameful.

“Care homes in Denbighshire are being denied the opportunity to have the free PPE that the Welsh Labour Government want them to

“Domiciliary care is also struggling financially because of irresponsibly low fees at a time when recruiting and retaining staff is more difficult than it’s ever been.

“All of which means that social care is in the eye of a perfect storm and Denbighshire have chosen this moment to decide not to hand out or find a distribution point for people to get the PPE that the Welsh Government has provided.

“It’s a total disgrace and the wooden spoon has gone to an authority that has shown utter contempt for older people who need to be in a care home along with those who cared for them through the most hideous global pandemic.

“Denbighshire County Council is the lowest of the low and shamefully deserving of this year’s Care Forum Wales Wooden Spoon Award.” have and they’re being denied by a Labour run county council.

“The public in Denbighshire need to ask what the Dickens is going on because the Leader of the council, Cllr McLellan, and his chief executive, Mr Boase, are behaving like latter day Scrooges.

“How is it that the older, vulnerable people in Denbighshire – people who have given so much to this country – are demoted to the bottom of the pile, especially after all we’ve been through with Covid. It’s totally unacceptable.

“If you live or work in a care home in Denbighshire you will know that Covid has not gone away even if most of the world thinks it has.

“This about the Welsh Labour Government saying, after all the analysis by the Chief Medical Officer and by all of the other experts, that Covid is still with us and it’s a very nasty, infectious disease that still has the potential to kill, particularly if you’re elderly and vulnerable.

“I don’t understand why a Labour local authority is refusing to provide care homes in the area with free PPE that’s been paid for by the Welsh Government.

“This is a total betrayal of vulnerable people because these are the very people who should matter most to us, particularly at this time of year.

“What you’re seeing in Wales is a North-South divide. If you are old and vulnerable, you’re very lucky if you live in South Wales while those in Denbighshire are the unluckiest.

“These are statutory services and the law clearly says that the fees paid by local councils and health boards should reflect the true cost of care.

“But Denbighshire is brazenly ignoring its legal obligations to these people and acting unlawfully because the fees they pay come nowhere near the actual cost.

“It’s also institutional prejudice against the private sector who actually enable the NHS to function and if you haven’t got somewhere to discharge hospital patients the whole system will come to a grinding halt.

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Get This Party Started! Care Home Residents Reveal Their Top Karaoke Songs This Christmas Party Season gran might be more down with the kids than you give her credit for – with some top chart hits featuring alongside more traditional ballads.

Think your grandparents aren’t down with the kids? Think again!

From P!nk to Bing Crosby, the nation’s care home residents have pulled together a list of their top 40 karaoke songs – and their choices will definitely get the party started this Christmas party season.

There aren’t many things that bring people together better than a good singalong, so residents from Bupa care homes around the UK have chosen their perfect selection of singalong songs, bound to be a hit at your Christmas party – and there may be a few surprises in their top 40:

TOP 40 KARAOKE SONGS, AS VOTED FOR BY CARE HOME RESIDENTS Raise Your Glass - Pink Dancing Queen – Abba Karma Chameleon - Culture Club Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen Goldfinger - Shirley Bassey These Boots Were Made for Walkin' - Nancy Sinatra Mama Mia - Abba Delilah - Tom Jones The Only Way is Up – Yazz Yellow Submarine - The Beatles By the Rivers of Babylon - Boney M Can't Help Falling In Love With You - Elvis Presley Daisy Bell - Harry Dacre You Are My Sunshine - Jimmie Davis The Happy Wanderer - Obernkirchen Children's Choir (There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover - Vera Lynn Moon River - Audrey Hepburn If You Were The Only Girl in the World - Bing Crosby When Irish Eyes are Smiling - Bing Crosby Morning Has Broken - Cat Stevens

MOST POPULAR KARAOKE SONGS TO ADD TO YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY PLAYLIST: Dancing Queen – Abba Daisy Bell – Harry Dacre Can’t Help Falling in Love With You – Elvis Presley You Are My Sunshine – Jimmie Davis Que Sera Sera - Doris Day Blue Suede Shoes - Elvis I Want To Be Happy - Ella Fitzgerald I Do Like to Be Beside The Seaside - Florrie Forde Show Me The Way To Go Home - Frank Crumit New York, New York - Frank Sinatra Oh My Darling Clementine - Freddy Quinn Sunshine - Gabrielle Singing in the Rain - Gene Kelly Imagine - John Lennon Over the Rainbow - Judy Garland What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) - Marvin Gaye Bring Me Sunshine - Morecambe and Wise Edelweiss - Richard Rodgers She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain When She Comes - Steve Songs The Skye Boat Song - The Corries Molly Malone - The Dubliners Last Rose of Summer - Laura Wright Ranging from the Victorian era to the modern day, the top 40 shows that karaoke can be great fun for everyone this party season. And your

HOW SINGING CAN HELP BOOST YOUR HEALTH Along with helping to get the party started, singing also offers a host of health benefits, especially for older people. These include:

PROMOTES CONNECTION Creating shared experiences with our loves ones can have a positive impact on our mental and emotional wellbeing.

OFFERS BRAIN TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES Whether you’re learning a new song or recalling one from times gone by, memorising and performing songs can benefit your brain and help you to feel invigorated.

STRESS MANAGEMENT If you’ve ever felt your stress levels reduce after belting out your favourite song, there’s a scientific reason behind it. Singing releases happy hormones that can help to keep your stress levels low.

PROVIDES ‘YOU’ TIME If singing is something you enjoy, putting aside the time to do it regularly can be a good way to make time for yourself, connect with the present moment and boost your mental wellbeing.

ACHIEVING GOALS From finally hitting that high note in Bohemian Rhapsody, to learning a family member’s favourite song, setting yourself a goal to widen your musical capabilities can provide a huge boost for your self-confidence and sense of pride.

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Top A&E Doctors Warn Of Rising Pressure From Winter Viruses

Frontline doctors are warning winter virus cases are “creeping up” alongside pressure on emergency departments, with new NHS data showing the number of flu patients in hospital is up more than half in a week.

This months figures show an average of 234 people were in hospital with flu every day last week, up 53% on the week before.

Hospital norovirus cases continue to rise, with hospital cases up 15% on the previous week to an average 406 people each day – a 28% increase on the same week last year. An average of 92 beds were closed each day last week and unable to be used due to measures to stop the spread of norovirus to other patients.

RSV cases are also increasing, with data showing in the week to 3 December that an average of 146 children were in hospital each day with the virus, up 11% on both last year and the previous week (131).

Despite these pressures, today’s data shows the steps taken by NHS staff to prepare ahead of winter are paying off.

The NHS started planning for winter earlier than ever before, including the nationwide rollout of care ‘traffic control’ centres, extra ambulances and beds, and the rapid expansion of the world-leading virtual wards programme, helping keep patients out of hospitals and treating more people at home and in the community.

There were 358,797 calls answered by the NHS 111 service last week – 14% more than the 315,788 in the same week last year – but despite the increase in calls, thanks to measures to boost resilience and grow the number of call handlers, more than twice the proportion of calls answered last week were answered within a minute (from 32% to 69%).

As a result of robust winter planning there are more beds available, with an average of 100,903 general and acute beds open each day, up almost 1,400 from 99,508 last year. There are currently 1,200 more patients in hospital compared to the same week last year – with 90,341 adult beds occupied last week, up

from 89,125 the year before.

Challenges discharging patients who no longer need to be in hospital settings are still having a considerable impact, with the number of people fit to be discharged to places such as care homes but remaining in hospital up to 12,883 each day, from 12,654 the week before.

Staff absences are increasing, with an average of 800 more staff off each day last week compared to the previous week – an average of 47,018 staff off each day (from 46,201).

Professor Julian Redhead, NHS England’s National Clinical Director for Urgent and Emergency Care, said: “This latest data will come as no surprise to those of us working on the frontline, who are seeing the number of people coming to emergency departments and patients in hospital with viruses like flu, RSV, and norovirus creeping up, and continued Covid pressure.

“The measures we set out in our urgent and emergency care recovery plan and winter preparations earlier this year are having an impact, with more than twice the number of NHS 111 calls being answered within a minute, and almost 1,400 more general and acute hospital beds open compared to the same time last year.

“Demand on hospitals and staff remains high, and as we experience more spells of cold weather and people gathering indoors for festive events and end of year celebrations, we expect to see a continued increase in winter viruses spreading in the community and in some cases, this will lead to hospital admissions.

“And now we are also preparing to mitigate the impact of the latest strikes this Christmas, once more prioritising urgent and emergency care – including emergency surgery – to protect patient safety and ensure those in life-saving emergencies can receive the best possible care. So the public can continue to play their part by using NHS services in the usual way and calling 999 in an emergency and using NHS 111 for other health conditions, and by getting their flu and Covid jabs if eligible.”

Cottingham Care Home Takes The Lead After Receiving National Accreditation Magnolia House care home in Cottingham has recently become just one of three services in the country to achieve compliance to the new British Standard for Adult Residential Care – BS8606:2019.

The home, which has the capacity to support 94 residents, was inspected by Care Inspections UK (CIUK), the UK’s only registered and accredited care home inspection body and was awarded a certificate of compliance.

The British Standard – BS8606:2019 – specifies requirements for the provision of care for adults requiring support, personal, nursing, and/or specialist care within a residential setting.

Chris Lane, a director at Park Lane Healthcare, said: “We’re delighted that Magnolia House has done so well in two objective, independent assessments from nationally recognised professional bodies.

“Being recognised as a good service by both CIUK and the CQC is a testament to the hard work of the staff, particularly the managers, and I am incredibly proud that these excellent standards are maintained year after year.

“Magnolia House joins two of our other services as being the only care homes in the UK to achieve the new British standard in care. This achievement is representative of the high standards we set at all levels within our organisation.”

Kevin Groombridge, chief executive of Care Inspections UK, said: “Maintaining excellent standards and a strong commitment to continuous improvement is key to a care home providing safe and appropriate care to its residents. The team at Magnolia House were welcoming to our inspectors, demonstrated the standards required to attain BS8606:2019, and took on board any constructive feedback we provided.”

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Public Sector Trend Predictions 2024: Addressing Challenges and Embracing Innovation

By Chris Hornung, Managing Director of Public Sector at Totalmobile (www.totalmobile.co.uk) In an ever-shifting landscape of public governance and services, the year 2024 promises to bring about notable transformations and challenges for the public sector. As we explore the trends across different facets of the public sector, the common thread is the call for adaptability and innovation. The challenges may be complex, but so too are the opportunities for positive change and growth. As the public sector navigates the complexities of the year ahead, organisations must remain resilient, flexible, and ready to adapt to the dynamic forces that govern its future.

Here, we will look into the specific trends shaping the realms of central & local government, the health sector, and emergency services, providing an overview of the landscape that will define the public sector in 2024. As the public sector navigates the intricacies of the year ahead, it must remain resilient, flexible, and ready to adapt to the dynamic forces that govern its future.

CENTRAL & LOCAL GOVERNMENT TRENDS 1. Financial Struggles and Section 114 Notices: Local governments across the UK will continue to grapple with financial difficulties in 2024, stemming from increasing economic pressures and the impact of inflation. As costs rise, the budgets allocated to these vital institutions are stretched to their limits. According to the ONS, public sector debts are at levels last seen in the 60s - this may even lead to the rise of Section 114 notices, which serve as a formal declaration of local authority bankruptcy.

2. Rise of Commissioners: One notable shift in the local government sector will be the increasing prominence of commissioners who will take on a more central role in running local authorities facing severe challenges to manage budgetary affairs hoping to deliver real transformations..

3. Real-Term Budget Reductions: Both central and local governments confront the grim reality of budget reductions in 2024. Striving to achieve more with less underscores the need for creativity and efficiency in maintaining and improving essential services.

4. Hybrid Working Adoption: Central government agencies continue embracing hybrid working models, reflecting an evolving workforce landscape with flexible arrangements that combine in-person and remote work.

5. Aging Demographics and Service Demands: The aging UK population amplifies demand for social services, increasing strain on local governments. Addressing the needs of this growing demographic will be a priority in 2024, alongside persistent pressures to raise salaries for public sector workers as they remain the backbone of delivering these vital services.

HEALTH SECTOR TRENDS 1. Increasing Budgets: Unlike their counterparts in local government, the health sector will see an increase in

budgets in 2024. This will come as welcome news for the NHS and other healthcare providers, as they have been under immense strain in recent years.

2. Backlogs and Challenges: However, the challenges for the health sector are far from over. Backlogs in healthcare provision, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, will continue to be a pressing issue. The demand for healthcare services will keep growing, requiring effective solutions to address this mounting surge.

3. Industrial Action Continues: The health sector is likely to experience ongoing industrial action, as healthcare workers advocate for better working conditions and remuneration.

4. Integrated Care Services (ICS): ICS organisations play an influential role in shaping the healthcare agenda in 2024. Emphasising cost-effectiveness, improved care, and collaboration with the NHS and local authorities, this approach decentralises care, making it more accessible and will relieve pressure on hospitals. The community-centred model will gain momentum in 2024 and the responsible parties will be held more accountable for their respective roles, which will be key in rebuilding trust in services.

EMERGENCY SERVICE TRENDS 1. Budgetary Pressures: In the emergency services sector, budgetary pressures will force organisations to scrutinise their operations for potential efficiencies in 2024. Ensuring that every pound is spent wisely and optimally is the order of the day.

2. Reducing Spending on Private Ambulance Services: Ambulance trusts will face mounting pressure to reduce spending on private ambulance services. This shift reflects a growing emphasis on developing inhouse capabilities to meet the ever-increasing demand for timely and efficient emergency response.

3. Retaining Skilled Staff: Retaining skilled paramedics and police personnel will be a top priority in 2024.

According to a House of Lords Public Service Committee report, the public sector is not being creative enough in retaining and attracting talent. Organisations will need to look to technology, which is currently underutilised in the sector, to offer better flexibility in work-life balance, improve scheduling, and actively recognise the value of these highly skilled individuals who play a critical role in public safety.

As we look ahead to 2024, it’s clear that the public sector in the UK faces a multitude of challenges.

Financial difficulties, budget cuts, and growing demands place immense pressure on local governments, while the health sector grapples with backlogs, workforce concerns, and the imperative to integrate care services. Emergency services must ensure efficiency and the retention of skilled personnel.

The future, however, also holds the promise of innovation and collaboration. Local governments will need to find new and inventive ways to transform their operations and continue providing essential services. In the health sector, integrated care services and a focus on community-centred care will lead the way towards a more efficient and patient-centric healthcare system. Emergency services are on the path to enhancing their operations while keeping a firm grip on highly skilled personnel.

Public sector can navigate these challenges, embrace innovation, and forge strong collaborations that will determine its success in the years to come. As the public sector adapts to the changing landscape, it remains a cornerstone of society, dedicated to the welfare of our ever-growing communities.

Local Care Home Suppports Age Concern Merstham Redhill Reigate Reigate Beaumont care home in Reigate recently supported Age Concern Merstham Redhill Reigate by delivering cakes for a very important celebration they were having.

One of their members, Joida was celebrating her 100th birthday and our Head Chef Roman was very happy to provide three cakes for the occasion. The team from Reigate Beaumont personally delivered the cake, a Happy 100th Birthday card plus a sash and tiara which Joida was delighted to receive. Joida immediately put on the sash and tiara and exclaimed that she felt like a Queen!

Reigate Beaumont has built up excellent reputations within its local community, regularly holding events and activities for residents and supporting organisations such as Age Concern.

Pramojil Kurian, General Manager at Reigate Beaumont care home said: “We are always keen to show as much support as we can to our community. Such as supporting Age Concern Merstham Redhill Reigate with these very important celebrations. And a very Happy Birthday to Joida!”

New TV Hearing Loop Offers Personal Entertainment For Residents with Hearing Loss Residents who struggle to hear can enjoy in-room entertainment, in clarity and without disturbing their neighbours, thanks to a new ‘home’ hearing loop.

An estimated 75 % of care home residents have a degree of hearing loss. The HLD4 from Contacta amplifies programmes from the television or music from a sound system meaning residents don’t have to turn the volume up to unacceptable levels.

The HLD4 hearing loop driver is a sleek, compact unit that sits easily alongside a TV. It sends an audio signal directly to a resident’s hearing aid via a loop pad placed underneath their seat cushion. It cuts out background noise allowing them to enjoy high quality, clear sound at their preferred volume and tone settings.

Residents who don’t use hearing aids but who could still benefit from the HLD4 can tap into the sound using Contacta’s newly launched RX-30 hearing loop listener, a rechargeable unit used with headphones.

“Communal living can be challenging when people have hearing loss and the HLD4 is a perfect solution,” said Shelley Rolfe, Head of UK Sales at Contacta.

“It is an attractive addition to a resident’s room and gives staff peace of mind that residents can enjoy their favourite programmes, music or audio books without causing a disturbance to their neighbours.”

The HLD4 can also be used with a room loop - cabling discreetly laid just beneath the carpet edge or along the top of skirting board - allowing residents to get the same sound quality no matter where in the room they sit.

Straight-forward to install, the unit memorises the user’s personal sound settings and even has an optional external microphone that will amplify voices of other people in the room, a phone ringing or a doorbell.

“Having these units could be a great selling point for care homes,” added Shelley.

“Being unable to hear clearly can be very frustrating but the HLD4 gives residents comfortable, independent listening. Our installation team of trained engineers can install any number of these units and can provide a regular maintenance programme to make sure these, and other hearing loops homes may have installed, work as they should at all times.” www.contacta.co.uk

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Promoting Independence and Confidence Through Cooking David Ashton-Jones, Chief Executive of Homes Together (www.homestogether.co.uk), says that enabling disabled people to cook is important for enhancing and maintaining independence.

For anyone working in our industry, empowering those in our care and encouraging independence stands as a core pillar of what we do. It’s vital that we help people living with disabilities have the confidence to engage in routine activities and build essential life skills.

One place where this kind of confidence can be nurtured is in the kitchen. Many of our service users at Homes Together find joy and fulfilment in cooking their own meals, and it can provide a rich, sensory experience for those who are visually impaired. Learning to cook brings with it a number of other benefits for people with disabilities, too, such as improving their chances of getting work within the food industry, providing the opportunity for social engagement in the kitchen, and enhancing literacy and numeracy skills through having to follow recipes. It’s also a way of saving money, and for having a far better control over diet.

How specialist equipment helps encourage independence To help our service users maintain their autonomy, our homes are fitted with specialised kitchen equipment tailored to individual requirements. These innovative devices range from the everyday to the pioneering, enabling people with disabilities to use their kitchen and make their own food and drink, and in turn inspiring in them that vital sense of independence and confidence.

The devices include a talking microwave, which is fitted with raised indicators on the start button for easy location and usage. After activation, voice prompts guide the user through the cooking process, making it far easier for them to prepare a meal.

It’s a similar story with talking scales, which enable service users to weigh ingredients accurately by providing spoken instructions. In this way, the scales empower visually impaired individuals by offering the independence to follow cooking recipes and measure ingredients accurately.

We also employ equipment designed to help people struggling with motor skills, such as the level indica-

tor, which can be fixed to cups and used when, for instance, pouring juice or water. When a certain level of liquid is reached during pouring, this device then produces a sound alert.

All of these devices are designed to allow users to make food and drink safely and with confidence. Take the one-cup kettle, which puts safety at the forefront. With this, service users are able to make their own cups of tea and coffee independently and safely, at the touch of a single button.

And stepping it up a notch, the Alexa coffee machine uses voice commands to function. With this, users can make a request like, “Alexa, make me a hot drink,” and the machine will make it for them. Though staff assistance might be needed to insert the coffee pod, the device still helps to foster a sense of autonomy.

Why a blend of aid and independence is vital While we see the use of specialised equipment as crucial in helping to encourage and improve independence among those with disabilities, it’s essential to get the blend of support and empowerment just right.

In this way, our team uses a “hand on hand” approach during kitchen activities, with staff guiding service users’ hands with their own hands through tasks like chopping vegetables. This involves staff placing their hands on top of service users’ hands, allowing for safety while ensuring service users are actively taking part in the cooking process.

Techniques like these – as well as the use of specialised equipment – don’t just help disabled individuals get better in the kitchen, they help them gain true confidence and fulfilment in their lives. As caregivers, we serve a pivotal role in this by extending the necessary support and encouragement for service users to explore their strengths and enjoy the feeling of achievement in the kitchen.

Care UK Celebrates Tracy’s Queen’s Nurse Achievement Tracy Norbury, Home Manager at Macclesfield’s Hollins Park care home, has received the prestigious The Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Award for Outstanding Service.

The accolade, more commonly known by the title of Queen’s Nurse, was bestowed to Tracy and other recipients during the Queen’s Nursing Institute ceremony on Friday 8th December.

Tracy has worked for Care UK since she was just 16 years old. Over the course of nearly two decades with the provider, she has held almost every role within her current home – having started as a domestic, before moving into the kitchen. When she became a qualified nurse in 2013, Tracy showcased her natural leadership skills and continued to progress, becoming the Home Manager in 2017 when she was just 29 years old. In 2019, Tracy led her team to gain four ‘Outstanding’ KLOEs from the CQC, making Hollins Park the first home to achieve this in the entirety of Cheshire.

Speaking on the importance of the Queen’s Nurse Award, Tracy said: “I feel very proud to have been recognised in this way, and to have been encouraged to put myself forward for the title of Queen’s Nurse. I’ve worked hard throughout my career, but I know I could not do my job without the support of my team. I hope this award will go on to inspire others – regardless of their job title – to put themselves forward for recognition whenever they get an opportunity to do so.”

Suzanne Mumford QN, Care UK’s Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia, said of Tracy’s achievement: “I am delighted that Tracy has been recognised by the Queen’s Nursing

Institute for her continued passion and dedication to improving nursing practice at Hollins Park. Tracy continues to inspire her team, and role model best practice in nursing and dementia care. She is a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.”

Nursing became a clear path for Tracy when she was working at Hollins Park as a carer, helping to deliver end-of-life care to a particular resident. The experience shaped her and highlighted that positivity can be found during the most difficult of times for families. She credits the impact that positive elderly care can have, not just on residents but their loved ones, particularly highlighting the importance of end-of-life care.

Tracy said: “One of the driving factors for me is changing the mindset towards caring for those who are living with dementia. It isn’t about what they may or may not remember – it’s about bringing moments of joy to their day. Just because you go into a care home doesn’t mean your life stops – I’m a firm believer that we should do everything we can to keep residents as independent for as long as we can.”

In amongst the innovations, Hollins Park has been well-decorated with accolades.

The home won Home of the Year at Care UK’s internal awards in 2018 and was highly commended for ‘Best Nursing Care’ in the Care Home Awards in the same year. As well as being awarded the title of Queen’s Nurse, Tracy currently holds ‘Home Manager of the Year’ from the National Dementia Care Awards 2023, having been recognised as ‘Lead Dementia Nurse’ by the same awards in 2017. She was also the recipient of the Great British Care Awards 2017 North West ‘Good Nurse’ award.

Digitising a Wellness Culture in Care People prefer to visit care homes with a wellness culture. The pervading peace of mind improves mental health, leading to a sense of well-being, reduced staff sickness, happier residents and better productivity. Wellness culture is a catalyst with real business benefits, while directly contributing to stability and better continuity of service.

Culture is engendered from the top, often being a management strategy and forming part of quality programmes. It may seem surprising to some, but digital tech can have a major part in delivering a wellness culture.

Care Homes are frequently bombarded with wellness ideas and opportunities but, how many wellness service providers deliver physical wellness monitoring as part of a wellness strategy. For some, having a wellness strategy is a tick in a policy box which is a shame as it is so much more valuable and can deliver smiles, well-being, peace of mind and better profitability. Wide, inclusive wellness programmes incorporate physical wellness monitoring as this is the basis of well-being and is a demonstration of a wellness culture.

Delivering physical wellness checks has become so much easier with systems such as HealthCheckerPro™ from Flourish PPI which incorporate digital wellness monitoring facilities that automatically alert to symptoms associated with more than 37 different illnesses. This rapidity can be crucial by

reducing medical response times, leading to faster recovery. HealthCheckerPro™ is completely contactless, effortless to use and really, really fast, completing a wellness check in under 1 second, helping to keep the duty Care Home Manager alert to sickness. This digital system stores the data from every check and has a real management benefit for care home operators with multiple homes as all wellness checks can be monitored live, simultaneously across every home together with any alerts. There are even automated daily reports, and, as the system can also be used for access control, all attendance data can form part of fire records.

This new digital technology presents new opportunities which not only include true wellness monitoring but provide a host of efficiencies that make the care workplace a better one for all . Taking this approach is not expensive either as HealthCheckerPro™ systems start at just £12.82 per week so, true wellness monitoring is a ‘no brainer’ and helps to bring smiles and joy every day, everywhere.

Steve Hathaway is Business Development Director for Wincheeter based company, Flourish PPI, a brand of Dijital Technologies Ltd, a pioneering digital tech organisation in the Care Home sector.

See the advert on the facing page for details.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 17

More Than 2 Million Older People Will Spend Christmas Alone - New statistics from Age UK show just how difficult and lonely this Christmas will be for older people in the UK: - 2.3 million older people wish they had someone to spend time with at Christmas, and 1.6 million find Christmas Day to be the hardest day of the year Age UK has launched a new campaign, the hardest day of the year, and is asking the public to donate and help those who have no one else Age UK has released new research as part of its Christmas campaign, the hardest day of the year, to help highlight just how lonely and isolating everyday life is for millions of older people across the UK, especially during the festive period. The statistics show that an overwhelming 2.3 million older people (nearly a fifth) wish they had someone to spend time with at Christmas, and 1.6 million older people find Christmas Day to be the hardest day of the year.

The campaign, which is supported by Age UK’s ambassadors Dame Helen Mirren, Dame Judi Dench and Dame Joanna Lumley, is raising awareness of how distressing loneliness can be for so many older people.

The Charity is urging the public to donate to the campaign if they can and support Age UK’s friendship and advice services, which will be a lifeline to so many this Christmas.

Age UK’s new research found that 1.3 million older people will feel lonely this Christmas and, when asked what makes it a difficult time, more than 4.2 million older people (a third) said Christmas brings up memories

of a loved one who has passed away. With Christmas typically being a period of joy when families and friends come together, having company and human connection during this time can be really important, but unfortunately this is something a huge number of older people are missing out on.

Financial worries are also adding to feelings of loneliness and isolation around Christmas this year – the ever-increasing bills many older people are facing mean that large numbers are sacrificing social expenses. Over one million people aged over 65 say the cost of living crisis is going to isolate them this Christmas more than ever before], and 1.3 million say it’s a hard time of year for them as it’s too expensive to celebrate.

Whether people celebrate Christmas itself or not, the festive period can magnify any feelings of how alone they are, as routine services tend to wind down and shops close or shut earlier. Nearly three quarters of a million (748,000) older people say Christmas is a hard time of year as it feels isolating with shops and services being closed, and nearly 1.4 million older people feel more isolated at Christmas than any other time of year.

Feeling isolated and cut off is something that many of us can relate to particularly after lockdowns during the pandemic, and large numbers empathise with these feelings when thinking about getting older. Around 8.5 million people aged 18-35 said they’d feel forgotten if they were to spend Christmas alone as an older person, with nearly 5.7 million people aged 18-35 saying the idea makes them dread getting older.

MP Joy Morrisey visits Farnham Common House On the 9th of October, Joy Morrisey, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Beaconsfield and Buckinghamshire, met with the residents, staff, and families of Farnham Common House for a delightful afternoon tea and cake gathering.

During her visit, residents Michael and Kathy expressed their gratitude to Joy with a box of chocolates that she kindly shared with everyone.

They also gifted her a beautiful bouquet of flowers as a token of appreciation for her visit.

Joy Morrisey was impressed by the warm and welcoming feel of the facility and remarked, “What a lovely homely atmosphere it was, and it was an absolute pleasure to come and visit”.

Resident Maureen R shared her experience, saying, “It was lovely to speak with Joy; she showed an interest in my previous occupation as a midwife and asked me about the babies I had delivered. She was really kind.”

Home Manager Wendy Blackmun also expressed her gratitude, saying, “It was really lovely to see the residents interacting with Joy, and we really appreciate the time she made in her busy schedule to come and visit us. It was a really lovely afternoon”.

Joy Morrisey’s visit brought joy and a sense of connection to the residents, and her genuine interest in their lives left a lasting, positive impact on everyone at Farnham Common House.

PAGE 18 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

How Technology Can Support Building Management Penny Brinsley, account director, Service Works Global discusses how technology can support care home estate teams to manage their building more efficiently while reducing costs at the same time.

HOW TECHNOLOGY CAN SUPPORT BUILDING MANAGEMENT Recent research from Savills has highlighted the challenges facing the care sector. There are 3.4 million people in the UK over 80 years old, and this will increase by 32 per cent in the next decade.

There will inevitably be growing demand for spaces in care homes. Staff will need to dedicate their time to providing comfortable, safe environments for residents and visitors. The way an estate is managed will have a big part to play, so ensuring this can be done in a more efficient way will be crucial as demand for beds increases.

Poorly maintained estates can cause big problems – what if the heating system suddenly fails during the winter months? There is also a financial concern, as non-compliance can lead to large fines.

HOW TECHNOLOGY CAN DRIVE EFFICIENCY The technology is there now to support building managers. In many cases, it’s a case of determining what tech you need and how it will integrate with other systems.

Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) systems offer a variety of functionalities and can be adapted depending on the needs of different estates. Some of the key features include: • Reactive and planned maintenance scheduling: Maintenance tasks can be scheduled and tracked with ease.

• Asset lifecycle management: CAFM systems track the lifecycle of assets so users can plan for replacements or upgrades. Systems can also include maintenance history and warranty documents so that engineers have all the information they need in one place. This also helps with compliance.

• Mobile apps: Operatives and contractors can access critical asset and building information on the move, from any location, improving the efficiency of operations.

• SLA and multi-contract management: CAFM systems help streamline multiple service contracts, ensuring that service providers are aligned with appropriate deliverables and reducing costs.

• Visitor check-in services: Systems can record visitor data and improve the security of care homes.

• Self-service for residents and contractors: Issues can be reported and addressed at the touch of a button, with all communications recorded in the system.

AI FOR PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE Some CAFM systems are now using AI and machine learning to power predictive maintenance. For example, AI-enabled software can predict and prevent breakdowns by analysing historical data on past asset failures, services, and maintenance. Operatives only need to spend time and resources on an asset when necessary, instead of on a set schedule. Estate teams can use their time more productively and budgets are more accurate.

AI and sensors can integrate with other building systems, such as HVAC and lighting, to optimise their operation. Smart systems only need to run when required, which can make a big reduction in energy consumption.

This proactive approach reduces asset downtime, lowers maintenance costs, and ensures the uninterrupted functioning of critical systems in care homes.

STARTING THE TECH JOURNEY With a strategic approach, CAFM systems and AI can be a valuable tool for building managers. To get buy in, make sure its use aligns with the overall operational goals of an organisation and have a plan for the ongoing use and development of systems.

As already mentioned, it’s critical that any new tech integrates and complements existing systems. Users will also need to be trained to varying degrees. An estate manager will need full use of the system, while a carer might just need to know how to submit work requests.

Data security is a non-negotiable, so make sure any system has robust data security measures in place.

Stay in regular conversation with your provider to stay on top of security, as well as any other system updates that need to be addressed.

The best time to start integrating tech into estate management is now, but don’t rush in until you are ready to make a strong case. Once underway, the benefits will speak for themselves through fewer asset failures, reduced costs and improved compliance – and most importantly, a safer care home.

Outwood Named Social Care Service of the Year A care service from Leeds is celebrating after scooping the top prize of Social Care Service of the Year at a health and social care awards ceremony.

Outwood, is Horsforth, is a specialist residential service for adults. It provides outcome focused care for individuals with learning disabilities and associated complex needs who may have behaviours that challenge.

It scooped the top prize of Social Care Service of the Year at the Cygnet Group Achievement Awards.

Cygnet Group is a leading provider of health and social care services for young people and adults with mental health needs, acquired brain injuries, eating disorders, autism and learning disabilities within the UK. Held last year for the first time, the Cygnet Group Achievement Awards is open to 11,000 staff across Healthcare, Social Care and Support Services, to honour colleagues across all departments and job roles who go above and beyond to ensure service users receive the highest quality care.

All winners were presented with their awards by former England cricketer, Marcus Trescothick, who was guest of honour at the event. Marcus kick-started the event by talking to the 280-strong staff audience about the mental health struggles he had experienced throughout his playing career.

Gareth Williams, CEO of Cygnet Social Care said: “The team at Outwood work incredibly hard to provide care for their 10 amazing residents. The home has a brilliant atmosphere which makes everyone feel safe and supported.

“Most residents are non-verbal and many have very strict routines so the team works hard to give them

Violet Home Care Ltd. WHO ARE WE? We are an established domiciliary care agency in the UK. We understand that many individuals would prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes, rather than moving into a care facility. That's why we offer a range of home care services, tailored to meet the unique needs and prefer-ences of each client.

OUR SERVICES: Our team of compassionate caregivers are trained to provide a range of services, from assistance with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing, to managing medication and providing specialized care for those with dementia or other health conditions. We work closely with each client and their family to develop a personalized care plan, designed to meet their specific needs and goals.

opportunities to live full and interesting lives. Each resident continues to thrive and meet their goals.

A spokesperson for Outwood said: “It’s a very hard working service, we have a great team with great service users and it is such a blessing to work with everyone.

“There is an amazing blend of individuals who come from different parts of the world, have different experiences and we all work together, we pull together and collaborate. Everybody is united by the common goal of making the service the very best it can be and we are all motivated to keep pushing ahead and doing the best we can for our incredible residents.”

Dr Tony Romero, CEO of Cygnet Health Care, said: “These awards are incredibly uplifting, hearing the countless stories about how so many of our staff have provided life-changing care and support.

“The entire Outwood team consistently goes above and beyond for the individuals in our care. They demonstrate passion for their work, commitment to excellence, and an unwavering dedication to our service users.

“Cygnet has a proud, 35-year history of providing quality care to some of society’s most vulnerable.

From the very beginning, back in 1988, it has been the caring nature of our staff who have played the greatest role in ensuring we change lives for the better. Their hard work and dedication are the foundation of our success, and I am proud to work alongside such exceptional individuals and teams. They really do go above and beyond to give our service users hope of a brighter future.”

OUR VALUES: We believe in a person-centered approach to care, which means that we focus on the unique needs and preferences of each client, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Our caregivers are trained to provide support with dignity and respect, and to encourage clients to remain as inde-pendent as possible, while still receiving the care and assistance they need. We also understand the importance of companionship and socialization, especially for those who may be living alone.

For this reason, we offer a range of social activities and outings, to help clients stay engaged and connected to their community. At our domiciliary home care agency, we believe that everyone deserves to live with dignity and re-spect, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Whether you or a loved one are in need of long-term care or just a few hours of assistance each week, we would be honored to provide the support and care you need to live your best life at home.

Contact us at: www.violethomecare.co.uk Info@violethomecare.co.uk 01372 700315 See the advert on the facing page for details.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 19

The Healthcare Industry Ranks Ninth In The UK For Workplace Wellness “Corporate well-being is still far behind where it needs to be.

With Increasing employee demands for health and wellness services/policies, corporate wellbeing can no longer be a tickbox exercise”.

“Evidently, it’s becoming increasingly important for companies and industries as a whole to provide employees with their wellbeing needs, as around 83% of businesses have reported an increased employee demand for enhanced wellbeing benefits” “While the retail sector leads the way for supporting employee wellness, there is still a lot of room for improvement across all sectors. The workplace wellbeing index criteria should be a goal and future industry standard for companies across the UK, rather than a rarity for employees and job seekers.”

“Companies and industries reluctant to invest in the foundations of a supportive workplace for employee wellbeing may risk losing out on top talent unless they meet the demands of their workforce by enhancing their wellbeing benefits packages”.

The healthcare industry has emerged as the UK’s ninth leading sector for employee wellbeing, according to a new study.

The index comprises six criteria, including gym subscriptions or discounts, number of on-site gyms, number of benefits in wellness packages, cycle-to-work schemes, PT access for employees, and Glassdoor review score, at companies in each sector.

As 83% of UK businesses report experiencing a surge in employee demand for enhanced wellbeing benefits packages, those that can provide the best will help employees thrive and be an attractive hub for talent.

Of the UK’s largest employers, the healthcare industry ranked ninth highest in the UK in the workplace wellbeing index, created by wellness workspace provider UNTIL Overall, the healthcare industry ranked where it did due to an index score of 16.8 influenced in part by an average company review score of 19.3 which reflects employee satisfaction and the number of companies in the industry that were analysed.

Dan Chappell, Co-Founder at UNTIL, commented on the research:

Berkshire Care Home Residents Kick-Start The Christmas Season With A Feast Two residents at RMBI Care Co. Home Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court, in Wokingham, decided it was time they got into the Christmas spirit in a suitable manner. With that in mind, Les Langley and Michael Holdstock recently went out to have a generous meal at a local carvery.

Accompanied by Sharon Fletcher, one of the Home’s Activities Coordinators, they enjoyed the festive atmosphere: carols playing, Christmas decorations on the walls and, above all, the aroma of hot turkey and stuffing.

“Excellent food and excellent company! My first taste of turkey this year, plus a gorgeous slice of gammon. I did have my traditional Brussel sprouts too!” said resident Les.

Resident Michael agreed: “Wonderful company and wonderful food. I enjoyed a nice Guinness amongst friends, so it’s been a very nice way to begin the Christmas celebrations.”

To better support residents, Activities Coordinator Sharon Fletcher focuses on one-to-one and small group interactions, which include outof-home activities like this one. She elaborates on the rationale behind this: “These activities allow us to provide individual quality time and strengthen friendships. Also, mixing with the wider community is a vital way of enriching our lives; day-to-day emotional experiences support our residents’ and staff’s wellbeing.”

Maintain and encourage healthy living and a good quality of life.

Violet Home Care are an established domiciliary care agency in the UK. We understand that many individuals would prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes, rather than moving into a care facility.

That's why we offer a range of home care services, tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client.

At Violet Home Care we aim to provide quality health care service, to enable people stay in their homes.

We recognize that everyone has different needs and hence require personalized care.

Some of the many services that we can provide: • Live in Care • Overnight Care • Sleep Patterns Evaluation • Shopping e.g. grocery or personal • Help with medication • Meal Preparation • Washing & Ironing • Outings to friends, family, and walks • Cleaning the home

PAGE 20 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

“Going Into Care Is Definitely Not Something To Fear.” A Daughter Shares Her Advice And Experience After Finding Care For Her Parents “I did investigate 30 homes before we came here. I didn’t visit them all but I did phone calls and drive-by’s and trawled through the CQC reports. I was looking for reliability and solidly good reports and I also looked at the activities they offered. [The home manager] Teresa’s knowledge and chat was hugely influential in helping us to know the best place to move my parents to, her advice was certainly the most useful. We had no complaints about where they were but coming here [St Faith’s] it’s like a palace, it’s out of this world.”

“THIS IS MY HOME”

In September, Cheryl Hossle’s parents moved into St Faith’s Nursing Home in Cheltenham which is part of the charity Lilian Faithfull Care.

After 62 years of marriage they were able to stay together during, what turned out to be, the last six weeks of her father’s life. Cheryl shares her advice and experience, following many years of navigating through the care system, in case it is useful to others in a similar situation.

THEIR JOURNEY INTO CARE Cheryl’s mum Joyce has vascular dementia and her father Derek had been caring for her at home, as Cheryl explains; “For several years we had home care but it got harder when mum forgot how to walk and became bed bound. It is really hard; the independent one [my dad] will always say that they are ‘fine’ all the time. I never saw my dad lose patience but he was stressed and losing strength. He was so tired all of the time. Home carers only came for half hour visits four times a day and so it was a very long night and day.

Mum has an active brain and she didn’t have enough to entertain her, we could see she wasn’t happy and slipping away’’.

SEARCHING FOR A CARE HOME “In May mum needed permanent care and dad needed respite.”

Cheryl’s parents moved into a nursing home, however when that home closed to nursing residents, Cheryl started searching again;

“Very quickly after arriving here Dad said ‘This is my home’ and told us ‘Your mother is looked after and loved’. He told us how all the staff were so kind and thoughtful and that gave us total trust in St Faith’s.”

“The care, activities, standard of cleanliness, furnishings and equipment are amazing. The carers don’t just help with feeding but they are engaging with the residents at the same time. It is how they talk to people – that is excellent here. Even though mum has dementia she is treated with respect. All the little details makes the big picture work.”

“It’s a real home from home. I’ve been able to pop in at any time. We have the kitchen to make our own coffee and I go in and share it with mum and dad. There are visiting dogs and animals. My parents loved having the dog come and say hello.

Dad had a big 88th birthday party here a few weeks ago and the staff went the extra mile with cake and decorations. We all sang together It was a real family day, it was absolutely fantastic and a treasured memory.”

“IT IS A REALLY PRECIOUS PIECE OF TIME TO HAVE WITH THEM” “Something people should know is that once [your loved ones] are

being cared for, fed properly and sleeping well they can rally quite a bit and that is a really precious piece of time to have with them.”

“Mum is a very happy person here. Looking at her now and all the things she is doing, she has a good quality of life. In the last few months she’s enjoyed watching Scottish dancing, animals visiting and all the music. Mum was a piano teacher and can still read music and tries to play the piano and so the music here is important.”

“Mum is on a puree only diet and here it is all beautifully piped and set out. They make it as normal as possible and they also prepare things like tiramisu which she can still enjoy.”

“I love the Facebook and Instagram posts and so does our extended family who can’t visit as often. My mum smiles when I am visiting and when I see my mum smiling in the photos shared on Facebook, I know she is happy.”

TOGETHER UNTIL THE END; “I KNOW DAD WOULD WANT ME TO SAY THANK YOU” Cheryl’s father recently passed away. “I am sitting here knowing he had a wonderful time full of gentle care, for the six weeks he was here.”

Joyce & Derek had a double room in St Faith’s Fairhaven Suite which specialises in end of life care. “The carers were so brilliant and very gentle with him. I honestly don’t think you could get better care. When the phone call came saying that dad had passed away, the nurse who called me was able to talk me through the next steps and what we needed to do.“

“I DON’T THINK GOING INTO CARE IS SOMETHING TO BE FEARED” “For anyone going through this I would absolutely say, don’t panic. It can be the best way forward for the whole family.”

To find out more about Lilian Faithfull Care’s six care homes in Cheltenham and Stroud visit: www.lilianfaithfull.co.uk

Care Assistant At Northamptonshire Home Has “No Inclination Of Leaving” As She Celebrates 15 Years with Organisation A care assistant who was awarded her 15 years’ service award says she has “no inclination of leaving”.

Sarah Roberts has been working with Methodist Homes (MHA) for 15 years.

Sarah started working at MHA Rushden Park, in Melloway Road as a senior care assistant.

Throughout her years at the home she has worked in various roles including a carer and reflexologist.

She was presented with her long service award by deputy home manager Magda Wolnicka.

Speaking after receiving the award Sarah said: “I really enjoy working for MHA and I can't believe it's been 15 years.

“I still remember speaking to the manager who was here 15 years ago who told me to come and see her if I ever wanted a job.

“That genuinely feels like it was yesterday and to fast forward 15 years and still be here its very satisfying.

“My job is great, I have a great support system around me and the residents are amazing.

“The team at the home are very supporting, especially the management staff.

“Receiving the award was a little bit of a surprise and I am very proud to have reached this landmark.

“I can see myself working here until I retire and have no inclination of leaving or moving anywhere else.”

Making Chat Work in Independent Care Homes Rising costs and staffing pressures are weighing on independent care homes, and regular breaks may not be, well, quite that regular.

That’s why the comfort of a coffee break is now more important than ever. NESCAFÉ has been a constant in homes up and down the country for years, and it may not only be a trusted companion for staff needing a moment, but equally, a tradition of joy and connection for residents.

GOOD PEOPLE Independent care homes are demanding, and good people are the heartbeat that keeps them going. From the staff who create the warm, welcoming atmosphere, to the residents and visitors whose chatter make it feel like home. But as the median hourly rate for care workers decreased by 1.5% between March 2021 and March 20221, keeping staff motivated is crucial.

NESCAFÉ can not only provide that warming comfort in stressful times, but spark conversation when it’s needed most. It’s important for staff to take those deserved moments of respite and enjoy the coffee chats that can help transform co-workers into friends; and get any concerns off their chest.

GOOD COFFEE 80% of UK households buy instant coffee, particularly those aged 65 and older.2 When placed inside the care home – whether in a cosy lounge or on a corner table in a staff room – that welcome aroma of coffee fills the air. As the nation’s favourite coffee,3 NESCAFÉ champions meaningful coffee break conversations, helping the wellbeing of care home staff and residents alike. Because good people deserve good coffee.

GREAT CARE Research says that taking part in meaningful social activities helps people maintain thinking skills better in later life.4 What NESCAFÉ does, with its rich history and warm presence, is provide a catalyst for such meaningful moments to happen.

So, in the midst of care home challenges – from financial to emotional – the promise of NESCAFÉ surpasses just coffee. It can create a homely environment which makes for a happier team, happier residents, and ultimately, a happier home.

TRY NOW AND CLAIM at https://hashting.promo/nescafecarehomeslanding/CAREHOMES-TCC

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Longevity Experts Set Out Bold Solutions To Maximise The Opportunity Of Longer Lives Financial incentives for exercising, a leg up to adulthood with a ‘decent start’ lump sum payment for school leavers and allowing bereaved or separated individuals who let out bedrooms, to retain the single-person council tax discount are among the bold ideas set out in One hundred not out: A route map for long lives, published by the International Longevity Centre UK (ILC).

The route map on the impact of longevity on society, highlights how society and Government need to rethink and invest more in public policies to ensure a more equitable and healthier lifetime.

While the Government has set a target of five years of extra healthy life expectancy for everyone by 2035, according to the Health Foundation achieving this through current policies will take 192 years.

The ILC’s report argues that we cannot continue like this. With significant inequalities within and between generations, a failing care system, struggling health services and increasing numbers dropping out of the workforce early due to ill health, bolder action is urgently needed if we are to achieve longer-term gains from longer lifetimes, both for us as individuals and for us as a society.

Instead of building policies around outdated stereotypes about what we can and should do at each stage of our lives, ILC proposes establishing a new Parliamentary Demographic Change Select Committee, to audit how well government is doing in responding to longer lives.

The ILC’s route map for long lives, published alongside its Future of Ageing conference, sets out wideranging ideas for improving health, tackling poverty, building community infrastructure and helping people build relationships and have fun throughout their lives.

THESE INCLUDE: - Ensuring that at least 6% of health spending goes towards preventative activity while embracing the ‘nanny state’ with new measures to curb unhealthy behaviour - Developing Occupational Health Hubs alongside JobCentre Plus - Opening an innovation fund – the Healthy Ageing Challenge 2.0 – with a focus on developing and scaling new ideas to improve health, adapt workplaces and tackle isolation and loneliness.

- Requiring 24-hour access to public amenities including toilets and seating areas to reinvigorate the nighttime economy by attracting older consumers - Creating a new Duke of Edinburgh Award offering fun, fitness, skills development alongside social action for people of all ages - Harnessing inertia (drawing on the lessons from auto-enrolment in pensions) with a new scheme to encourage workplace savings; an escalator on auto-enrolment minimum contributions and new ways for self-employed people to save - Developing new multigenerational community hubs building on the best of Sure Start Centres, community

hubs and neighbourhood networks.

ILC argues that these changes already attract significant consensus and are the obvious “next steps” for the next Government.

The report also proposes some “bold ideas” for more ambitious changes more commensurate with the scale of the longevity opportunity:

THESE INCLUDE: - Setting up citizens’ panels with the power to make proposals directly to Parliament.

- Giving everyone a leg up to adulthood with a ‘decent start’ lump sum payment to all individuals when they leave high school.

- Developing a new ‘Lifetime Work Standard’, guaranteeing flexible working arrangements, support for carers, and access to training and occupational health.

- Providing financial incentives for physical activity - Offering a £100 grant to all citizens to be spent on cultural activities - Letting owner-occupiers who let out rooms in their home, following a bereavement or separation, retain the single-person council tax discount for up to five years David Sinclair, ILC’s Chief Executive said: “Over a decade ago, a House of Lords cross-party committee warned that we weren’t ready for our ageing future. We still aren’t. Today we also need to consider the growing challenges around long-term environmental sustainability and the implications of technological changes alongside the way we approach human longevity.

“The opportunities for long lives are enormous, but politicians have not been honest enough about the trade-offs we’ll have to make now to reap the rewards of long lives in the decades to come.

“We need an honest debate about how we want to carve up our long lives to deliver the things we want and need – to work, to contribute, to learn, to love, to have fun and to care and be cared for. Getting the balance right will mean doing things differently. We need high-level, cross-governmental work on demographic change. We need to recognise that we might need the state to intervene more in some areas, but we’re also going to have to ask individuals to take more opportunity and even risk in others.

“To realise the opportunity of long lives we can’t procrastinate any more. Our new route map highlights a set of ideas that, frankly, we’ve already been talking about for years. Policymakers now need to grab these and get on with it.

“But, if we want to live up to the seismic shift that we’re already undergoing as a population and reframe the way we live to better suit long lives, then we’re probably going to need to be bolder. We think the time is right to discuss some bigger ideas -whether that’s a “decent start” grant for school leavers, financial incentives for physical activity, or a new guarantee for decent work “Only by taking big decisions can we capitalise on the longevity dividend ahead.”

Upton Bay Care Home’s Christmas Fete Brings Local Community Together Staff, residents, relatives and the local community came together at Upton Bay care home in Hamworthy to enjoy a wonderful Christmas Fete.

There were all kinds of stalls on offer manned by volunteers, friends and family and lots of local stall holders came along to sell their wares too. There were lovely craft items, homemade crochet Santa’s, hand crafted jewellery, the list goes on!

The team at Upton Bay care home would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who either manned a stall, donated a raffle prize

or who came along to support the home.

There was a fantastic atmosphere and in total the home raised over £150.00 for the Hamworthy and Turlin Moor food bank, which is brilliant.

Mevin Sohorye, General Manager at the home, said: “At Upton Bay, we are dedicated to making sure that the home is a hub of the local community, and this event, along with everyone’s hard work, has definitely paid off. It was a resounding success! I am so proud of everyone involved, it was a fantastic team effort.”

Blueleaf Partners with Lisbeth Nursing Home to Deliver Better Outcomes in Continence Care Lisbeth Nursing Home, an award-winning care home in Great Wyrley near Walsall, is making significant improvements in continence care for its residents after signing a new partnership agreement with Blueleaf Care, the nationwide supplier of care home products, services, and supplies.

Incidents of moisture lesions, which cause distress to thousands of residents across the UK every day, have been virtually eliminated at Lisbeth Nursing Home, not only delivering better patient outcomes, but also reducing the need for additional creams and cleaning products, reducing unnecessary costs, and supporting a more sustainable operation.

Opened in April 2021, Lisbeth Nursing Home has already made its mark in the local community and beyond, meeting the needs of three local authorities in Staffordshire, The Black Country and Wales. Most recently it featured in the list of the Top 20 care homes in the West Midlands following a survey by carehome.co.uk Care Home Manager Andrea Walker, who has run the 40-bed home from the beginning, says the decision to switch to Blueleaf has helped further improve an already exceptional level of resident care: “We use the complete range of TENA products from Blueleaf, having assessed the individual needs of all of our residents on a one-to-one basis,” she explains.

“Blueleaf has not only helped us in delivering a quality product, but also in guiding us to select the right prod-

ucts for each resident and training our staff to get the most out of the products they use. It is this partnership approach, and a shared goal of delivering better outcomes, that is having such a positive impact on our residents.”

In terms of the home’s association with Blueleaf, as well as continence care it will, in the future, be sourcing all of its products via the Blueleaf team. This includes all paper products (toilet rolls, hand towels etc), hand soaps and sanitisers, cleaning products for the laundry and kitchen, and various medical consumables (such as wipes, gloves, needles etc).

“Online ordering is easy, and by creating a ‘favourites list’ within Blueleaf’s shop I can re-order products very quickly,” Andrea continues. “Anything I need, Blueleaf can source and deliver on time, when I need it. The team, led by Roy Edwards, is also always on hand if I need any product advice.”

Roy Edwards, Business Development Manager at Blueleaf Care, say that the collaboration with partners Essity, and the strength of the TENA brand, are having a positive impact on improving clinical and financial outcomes for Lisbeth House: “We take great care choosing the right partners and products to support our clients,” he says, “and it is a pleasure to work with them to help Andrea and her team deliver an even greater quality of care to their residents.”

For further information please visit www.blueleafcare.com

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 23

Still Time For Government To Stop Strikes If It Puts Forward ‘Credible’ Final Offer, Says BMA ing junior doctors, can provide cover ensuring that urgent and emergency care can continue to run.

“This month’s industrial action comes because of this Government failing to so far provide junior doctors with a credible pay offer and failing to address the unprecedented staffing crisis that is engulfing our NHS and value doctors for the work they do. Their persistent mishandling and under-resourcing of our health service has been causing unnecessary risk of harm; last winter, there was a sharp rise in excess deaths, a period when there were no doctor strikes. Ministers should be looking to make sure that our health service is safely staffed for 365 days a year.

“We are serious about ensuring that patients can receive high-quality care this Christmas, and for many more to come.”

Responding to comments made by that the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care suggesting that junior doctors walked out of talks before an offer was made, Dr Emma Runswick, BMA deputy chair, said: “Victoria Atkins and the DHSC were aware of our deadline for a credible offer, but this is not the time to look back, we have to move forward now.

If Mrs Atkins believes the final offer which was held back is credible, there’s still time for it to be put on the table, end the dispute, and stop the upcoming strike action. ”The BMA has been clear that Trusts are given sufficient notice of the strike dates and it is for them to ensure there is adequate and appropriate staffing in place to meet the levels of care provided. As with all other strike action taken by juniors doctors, those doctors not taking industrial action – consultants, specialty and specialist doctors, as well as non-strik-

Santa And Mrs Claus Make An Early Yuletide Visit To Green Park!

The Festive sleigh has already been in action this year as Santa and Mrs Claus flew to Green Park Nursing Home in Great Sankey at the weekend for their annual Christmas market, two weeks ahead of the big day itself.

The early Christmas celebration, held within the grounds of the care home and looked forward to by members of the local community every year, featured a selection of independent festive stalls. Including a body care, handmade jewellery and baked goods stall, plus a visit from Snowdrop therapy ponies, based in Warrington, which proved hugely popular with Green Park residents and visiting children alike.

Lisa Brakewell, Activities Coordinator at Green Park said: “It was heartwarming to see everyone have fun on Saturday; the ponies were so well-mannered and gentle, while there was a queue of people – both youngsters and our residents – at Santa’s grotto asking for their Christmas wishes to be granted! We

recognise the positive impact it has for the people who live at Green Park to continue to feel part of the local community, so events like this, that bring everyone together are so important. We look forward to the smiles it puts on faces every year and seeing that joy last over the festive season.”

Laura McLeod, Home Manager, praised the activity team at Green Park for their impressive efforts in decorating the grotto with such enthusiasm and passion.

Green Park has two ‘Reconnect’ communities under one roof and is the largest home in the Orchard Came Homes group, in terms of room numbers. Reconnect is Orchard’s speciality dementia care programme which offers dedicated individualised are for those living with the condition. All rooms are en-suite and those making their home at Green Park can add their own personal touches to the décor in their rooms.

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PAGE 24 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

Halesowen Carer Praised For Her Commitment To Excellence

A shining star in the world of elderly care has recently been honoured for her exceptional contributions to the sector.

Zhinga Grant-Wilson from Halesowen is a dedicated carer at Portway House in Oldbury and has recently received recognition and an award by the West Midlands Care Association for her unwavering commitment and excellence.

affection for the elderly is evident in every interaction, and she takes pride in providing the utmost care to those who rely on her support. Her commitment goes beyond duty; it reflects a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others.

A NIGHT SHIFT GUARDIAN

Astounded by the recognition she has received, Zhinga remains humble. "I love my job and helping others to live the best lives they can, so I just do what I do to the very best of my ability," she remarks. Her dedication and humility make her not only an outstanding caregiver but also a source of inspiration for others in the industry.

A HUMBLE INSPIRATION

At just 33 years old, Zhinga has spent the last three years at Portway House, devoting herself to the well-being and comfort of elderly residents under her care.

It is not just her diligence during her night-time shift hours that sets her apart; it's her remarkable standards of care, infectious positivity, and a nurturing and caring personality that have earned her accolades from her colleagues.

Fellow staff at Portway House nominated Zhinga for the award, emphasising her dedication to high standards of care, her ability to radiate positivity even during challenging times, and the trust she instils in both residents and her fellow caregivers.

WORDS OF WISDOM Reflecting on her journey, Zhinga shares a message to her younger self: "Work hard, be kind, always help, and give generously." These words encapsulate the essence of her approach to caregiving and serve as a beacon of guidance for those aspiring to make a difference in the lives of others.

ROOTS OF COMPASSION

RECOGNITION FROM SUPERIOR CARE

Zhinga's journey in the field of care is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Originally from the Grenadines, she was raised by her grandparents, who instilled in her the values of care and kindness, especially towards the elderly.

These early lessons formed the foundation of Zhinga's compassionate approach to her work, making her a beloved figure among the residents at Portway House.

A LOVE FOR THE JOB For Zhinga, caring for the elderly is not just a job; it's a calling she wholeheartedly embraces. Her genuine

Amrit Sumal, director of Superior Care (Midlands) Ltd, the Group that owns Portway House, expresses the sentiments of the entire team: "Zhinga is an asset and a true inspiration to our team. We are thrilled she has been recognised for all her hard work and commitment. Her impact extends beyond the walls of Portway House, resonating as a testament to the dedication and compassion that define Superior Care.

“We wish Zhinga many more years of success in a career we know she loves so much.”

Couple Celebrates Emerald Wedding Anniversary at Brendoncare Alton Having spent their early life on the other side of the world, Ross and

church in Wellington. Their honeymoon got off to a precarious, costly

Christina “Tina” Anderson celebrated their Emerald (55th) Wedding anniver-

start on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Having borrowed

sary at Brendoncare Alton where she is a resident.

Tina’s mother’s Morris Minor, they slide the car into a bank and damaged

It is a long way from where the couple met and married in New Zealand.

its front wing.

Born in Basra, Iraq, Tina is the daughter of a vicar, and lived in Belfast. She

Moving back to the UK, they have enjoyed holidays in Porthaven,

met Ross in 1966 at a Victoria University Catholic Society dance in New

Cornwall. Their secret to a long and happy marriage is “tolerance – and

Zealand to which he had been dragged along by his friends because he did

marrying the right person!”

not want to go.

Their son Karl lives in Guildford while daughter Catherine is still resi-

Ross, who lives in High Wycombe, was a young maths and science stu-

dent in New Zealand with her husband and family.

dent. He wooed Tina who went on to be a journalist at the Wellington

Brendoncare Alton provides nursing care for 80 people, including

Evening Post in New Zealand.

The couple, now both 75, were married by Tina’s father at the bride’s local

respite care and specialist care for those living with dementia.

Care Home’s Christmas Fete Brings Local Community Together Staff, residents, relatives and the local community came together at Longueville Court care home in Orton, Peterborough to enjoy a wonderful Christmas Fete.

There were all kinds of stalls on offer manned by volunteers, friends and family and lots of local stall holders came along to sell their wares too.

There were delicious cakes and jams, lovely craft items, fabulous knitwear, antiques and collectables, the list goes on!

The team at Longueville Court care home would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who either manned a stall, donated a raffle prize or who came along to support the home.

Bheki Perelion, General Manager at the home, said: “At Longueville Court, we are dedicated to making sure that the home is a hub of the local community, and this event, along with everyone’s hard work, has definitely paid off. I am so proud of everyone involved, it was a fantastic team effort.”

Tripping The Light Fantastic At Local Care Home Lighting up time got a whole new meaning at Upton Bay as the community came together to see the home’s Christmas lights switched on for the very first time this Christmas.

Staff and residents at Barchester’s Upton Bay care home, in Hamworthy, got in the Christmas spirit by inviting the community to come and join in with staff and residents who all gathered in the home’s garden for the occasion.

There was mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies along with lots of other Christmas treats all prepared by head chef, Alain to keep everyone warm. The Christmas tree and all the lights looked amazing when our Activities’ lead Karen,

flicked the switch for the big reveal. Everyone enjoyed entertainment from the land girls and danced the evening away.

General Manager, Mevin said: “We absolutely love Christmas here at Upton Bay, it is such a special time and we all love decorating the home and having a lovely big tree.

This is possibly the biggest we’ve ever had but then, it is Christmas so you have to go over the top!”

Bob, resident at Upton Bay care home said: “It feels properly Christmassy now all the lights are up, the home looks so beautiful – I can’t wait for my family to see the lights next time they visit!”

The Big “Christmas Lights Switch-on” at Camberly Manor Camberley Manor care home, home to 6 residents hosted its annual Christmas Light switch on event earlier this month.

Surrey Heath Madam Mayor, Pat Tedder, joined residents in enjoying live music, a themed seasonal buffet including mince pies & mulled wine, and a celebratory Christmas Light switch on attending by Mrs Clause herself joined by some naughty elves.

The event took place from 3:30pm and the Mayor spent hours talking to residents and community and took time to visit those residents nursed in bed who were unable to attend the main event, which was particularly heartwarming and meant a great deal.

Madam Mayor said: "Thank you for inviting me. What a lovely afternoon and great fun. Be sure to invite us to the next party".

Home Manager, Jutta Staude, said: "It is important for us to mark the begin-

ning of the festive period with a celebration for our residents and neighbouring community. We are privileged to have the esteemed Mayor join us for this afternoon which has touched many residents. We look forward to a month ahead of festivities."

Business Development Manager, Jo Anderson-Woodley said: "Today has been a pleasure to host alongside the Mayor and we have all thoroughly enjoyed the live music and dancing. We are certainly in the mood for Christmas now!"

The local community are invited to join Camberly Manor for more Christmas events they are hosting in the home such as our Blue Light Breakfast on 13/12 or our Dementia memory café on 28/12. These events are all free to attend and family friendly. Please contact bdm@camberleymanor.co.uk for more information.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 25

Northampton Pub Regulars Rally To Bike Loving Care Home Residents A pub in Northampton and its regulars have surprised a local care home with a motorbike rally after learning of its biking enthusiasts residents.

Publican of the The King Billy Rock Bar in Commercial Street, Northampton town, Rachel Nash and six of the pub’s regulars who are all avid motorcyclists traveled from the pub to Ashurst Mews Care Home in Moulton to surprise residents.

The visit came after a team member at the home who helps to run entertainment and classes for residents saw other biker runs that the King Billy Rock Bar has done in the community.

Knowing that some of the residents would love to see the bikes up close and chat to the bikers, they reached out to the pub who rallied the regulars together.

It was a multi-generational rally too with publican Rachel’s eight-year-old granddaughter also riding pillion.

Rachel Nash at King Billy Rock Bar, said: “We were able to take some impressive Harley Davidson and Yamaha bikes to the residents who could then spend time chatting to the bikers and everyone was sharing stories.

“We are a real pub family at the King Billy and the regulars who took part enjoyed it as much as those at Ashurst Mews. We do a lot in the community and for charities locally, especially using our bike rallies, but this is the first visit to a care home.”

Rachel took on a temporary lease from Star Pubs and Bars to run The King Billy in January 2023 but also

worked at the pub prior to this. She has grown up around bikers her entire life and got her own license at 40, before having to give it up due to health reasons.

The pub also runs other community initiatives including an annual Santa Dash taking presents to local teenagers in Northampton care homes. However, Rachel says that the current economic situation for pubs is putting these types of community and fundraising efforts at risk and appeals for people to visit their local pub as closures will have a significant impact.

She said: “People must visit and support their local pubs because it’s more than a place where people drink. Across the UK, local pubs will also be community hubs that do everything from food banks and fundraising nights to putting on free food for local grassroot sports clubs. The impact therefore of a pub closing will be felt across the whole community.”

Des O’Flanagan, Co-Founder of PubAid, the industry voice for pubs and their positive contribution to society, said: “Pubs raise more than £100 million every year for charities as well as being at the heart of their community. The King Billy and Rachel are a prime example of how a pub does much more than serving food and drink. Activities led by pubs, publicans and regulars just like the bike rally are taking place across the country every day but as more pubs face closure these will stop. This is in addition to them being places for people to socialise and helping combat issues such as loneliness. People can be part of a pub family and for some, they wouldn’t see and speak to people if they didn’t have their local pub.”

Local Cubs Decorate Tewkesbury Fields Care The 1st Bredon Cubs have been lending a hand to spread some festive cheer at Tewkesbury Fields Care Home by helping residents decorate the Home. The activities team set the challenge to make some festive decorations by hand with residents and together they crafted, trimmed and made some amazing festive paper chains which reached above 10 metres in length.

The decorations have been crafted with care by working together with residents the cubs have made the home brighter for Christmas and added some wonderful homemade decorations to the festive displays.

Staff at Tewkesbury Fields Care Home made everyone feel wel-

come and were delighted to see everyone having fun together. The Residents and young visitors enjoyed plenty of refreshments, such as home made cake and cookies for the occasion prepared by the chef and hospitality team.

Edrianne Jade Baluyut, General Manager at Tewkesbury Fields said: “Staff at Tewkesbury Fields are dedicated to making sure that the home connects through intergenerational engagement and residents have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the Cubs, they have brought smiles, excitement and fun by working with the residents and lots of laughter during the visit could be heard throughout the Home”

Christmas Fete at Carterton Home Raises £500 for Residents Amenities Fund A Carterton home raised £500 with the support of their staff and the residents' families.

MHA The Homestead had their Christmas fete which was attended by more than 100 people.

The fete included classics such as raffle, tombola and various stalls including a knitting stall set up by the wife of one of the residents.

Staff members also enjoyed the fete by dressing up as elves and bringing out their Christmas jumpers.

There was also some live entertainment with plenty of Christmas classics being sung.

The home provides residential and residential dementia care for 68 residents Kirsty Ridley, one of the activity coordinators at the home said: “The fete

was really popular, and we all had a great time.

“We had plenty of things going on and it was a fete that was applicable to all ages.

“It was a fairly busy day and even though we only had the fete for three hours, I do feel we did really well.

“We had plenty of support from our colleagues as well as the family members of our residents.

“There was some great feedback from the residents, everyone got stuck in and it was a real team effort.

“The funds raised will go towards the residents amenities fund, which will be used for trips and activities.

“I want to thank everyone who came and supported the fete, without their support we would have not been able to reach the figure that we did.”

Hark The Herald Angels Sing At Local Care Home Heavenly voices rang out at Moors Manor Care Home as the community came together to celebrate Christmas with a carol concert.

Staff and residents at Barchester’s Moors Manor Care Home, in St Leonards, got in the Christmas spirit by inviting the community to come and join in with a carol concert to sing some festive Christmas favourites. The singing was led by Ringwood Twinning Association and St Michaels Church Choir Verwood.

There was mulled wine, hot chocolate, and homemade mince pies along with lots of other Christmas treats all prepared by chef, Moray Henderson to get everyone feeling fes-

tive.

General Manager, Jenna May said: “We are so lucky to have such a fantastic community here at Moors Manor Care Home.

Singing Christmas carols is such a lovely tradition, I’m so glad we could invite our friends and neighbours to come and join in us.”

Rita Potter, resident at Moors Manor Care Home said: “I love to sing Christmas carols so it was wonderful to hear all my old favourites sung so beautifully by the choir, there really is nothing better than a good old singalong!”

PAGE 26 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

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Exclusive Antimicrobial Scrub Technology

by Grahame Gardner and Micro-Fresh® The range, exclusive to Grahame Gardner, incorporates cutting-edge technology MicroFresh® to help keep healthcare workers safe whilst maintaining unrivalled comfort.

The garment fabric, which is 65 per cent polyester and 35 per cent cotton, is incorporated with innovative Micro-fresh® technology at point of manufacture. The antimicrobial technology not only kills 99.9 per cent of bacteria beyond 50 washes but is also proven to reduce the spread of human coronavirus by 99.2 per cent.

With wash resistant antibacterial protection, Micro-Fresh® also boasts odour prevention, providing longer lasting freshness for the wearer. The scrubs are hypoallergenic, gentle on skin and vegan friendly.

The exclusive scrubs are available in two fits – unisex and female – the scrub top is available in six colourways: Oasis, Navy, Eau de Nil, Bottle, Smoke

Grey and Blue 18 each with a classic contrasting white trim, the trousers are available in core colours Navy, Bottle and Black.

Grahame Gardner also offer all six scrub colours in their Made to Order range with a bespoke choice of trim colour.

The scrub top design features multiple pockets, including two waterproof chest pockets and a wearers right hand hip pocket, which also has a pen divide and an elastic loop for a clip-on hand sanitiser. The trousers have a drawstring waist, and also side and a back pockets.

The range is exclusively available to purchase here: www.grahamegardner.co.uk/healthcare/ microfresh-scrubs.html www.grahamegardner.co.uk info@grahamegardner.co.uk See the advert on page 7 for further details.

MOWOOT II for Life Free from Constipation 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 adverts on page 3 and the front cover of this issue.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 27

CYBER SECURITY

Why You Should Consider A Cybersecurity Strategy In Your Care Facility

Cyberattacks are on the increase and the healthcare sector is one of the most targeted industries. According to a recent survey conducted by email security firm Agari, 67% of healthcare organisations in the UK have suffered a cybersecurity incident over the last 12 months. Of all healthcare cyber incidents in the last year, 48% have been the result of malware or viruses introduced to the network by third-party devices.

To help protect your care home or care facility from the threat of a cyber related incident, we recommend putting a robust cybersecurity strategy in place to sit alongside your insurance programme. You should create a cyber risk assessment and action preventative measures including a best practice guide. This will help to reassure your employees, customers, suppliers and any third parties, that you are as ready as possible in the event of a cyber threat.

To identify areas of weakness or vulnerability, you should assess

the security of your information or data. Prevention is always better than cure, so review your current security strategy to ensure that you have the proper policies and best practices in place to meet any required standards or obligatory regulations. This should include a review of your security operations, network and data security to check that you are protected from exploitation and have prevention and monitoring procedures in place.

Carry out a cyber security assessment to identify the types of attack that you may be vulnerable to and assess how prepared your business is to respond to an incident. Consider your ability to detect malicious activity, the procedures you have in place to contain an attack and what your incident response process is.

Create a best practice guide to help prevent your exposure to cyber threats and share with all employees. This should include the use of strong passwords which are updated regularly. Software and systems should also be checked regularly, and updates actioned when due. The use of two-factor authentication, when available, should also be implemented.

Ensure you are following the most up to date guidance on GDPR and that your data protection officer has all the latest information. It’s a legal obligation of any business to ensure appropriate and proportionate security is in place to protect any personal data held, to safeguard the rights of individuals. You must also report any data breaches to the ICO within 72 hours of discovery.

Provide your staff with Cyber Security Awareness Training so they can spot suspicious looking communications, understand how hackers get in and the importance of strong passwords. Educating your entire organisation helps to minimise potential attacks and can also help to reduce internal security incidents. It’s also a good idea to create a robust reporting procedure to ensure that all employees are aware of any potential or recent cyber-attacks.

With more of us working from home, you should make sure your remote working methods are protected and procedures are adhered to by all.

Put together a business continuity plan and share with key employees for a coordinated, calm and fast reaction to an unexpected cyber event. Your immediate response to an event will be key to the overall impact on your business. Consider how you will contact everyone that may have been affected as a result of a data breach to help retain your customer database, customer confidence, brand reputation and trust.

Don’t wait until you have experienced a cyber attack to put measures in place, be proactive and help protect your business now. We can help you to develop a robust cyber security strategy as part of your complete insurance programme, managing your exposure to cyber risks.

Speak to us about arranging cyber liability insurance or carrying out a cyber risk assessment by calling us on 01480 272727 or emailing enquiries@barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk Find out more about cyber liability insurance at www.barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk/what-we-cover/cyber-liability/

PAGE 28 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

HYGIENE & INFECTION CONTROL Swiftclean Puts Your Care Home in Control of Grease and Legionella Swiftclean is a family-run business which has been established for over 40 years. Formed to provide specialist compliance cleaning services for ventilation system hygiene, Swiftclean is now one of the UK’s foremost providers of kitchen extract fire safety cleaning, legionella control services, fire damper testing, indoor air quality monitoring and ventilation system cleaning.

WHY SWIFTCLEAN? We do the job properly, giving you peace of mind: We tackle many new projects where dirt or grease has been allowed to build up - all our ventilation cleans are carried out to comply with BESA TR19® or TR19® Grease.

Our legionella control services provide clean water: We provide legionella control services to ensure L8 regulations compliance, preventing legionella outbreaks and maintaining a healthy water supply.

We help safeguard your insurance: Our unique cloud-based digital delivery system produces detailed compliance documentation to help safeguard your insurance, preserve your business and protect your brand reputation.

We save you time and money: By using us for both ductwork and water hygiene services, you can make the best use of your budget, as well as your valuable time.

We’re big enough to reach you, small enough to care: We provide nationwide coverage in England, Wales and Scotland, through one team with the same exemplary high standards.

We’re highly experienced, we know what we’re doing: Our expertise has been built up over more than four decades and we’re at the cutting edge of industry progress. Our Managing Director is directly involved with BESA and we’re an award-winning, ISO registered company. We’re experienced and reliable; you can count on us to do the job properly.

We would love to hear from you. Please feel welcome to contact one of our team members on 0800 243 471 option 1 www.swiftclean.co.uk

Angloplas - Reduce the Risk of Cross Infection Angloplas are a UK manufacturer who specialise in producing dispensers for the health and hygiene industry. Although these are designed to keep the workplace tidy and uncluttered they are, more importantly, built knowing the control of healthcareassociated infections (HCAIs) are a priority for healthcare providers, and who are employing a combination of infection prevention and control strategies, including hand hygiene, cleaning, training and the adoption of new technologies, to tackle the problem.

As a result, a wide range of infection control products and technologies are emerging on the market, including antimicrobial technology. Angloplas’ range of dispensers are produced in the world’s first proven

Antimicrobial PVC with silver ion technology and which is exclusive to Angloplas. This helps reduce the risk of cross infection by stopping the growth of bacteria and mould and works continuously for the lifetime of the product, reducing levels of bacteria such as MRSA, E Coli, Legionella, Salmonella and mould by up to 99.99%.

For non-clinical environments Angloplas has recently launched its new Budget Range of products which are made to the same exacting standards as the antimicrobial protected ones but with lower price tags.

You can order Angloplas products directly from its website by going to www.angloplas.co.uk

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 29

HYGIENE & INFECTION CONTROL Skin Health and Surface Hygiene Expert, GOJO Urges Organisations To Be Prepared This Germ Season Skin health and surface hygiene expert, GOJO urges organisations to be prepared this germ season.

GOJO, THE INVENTORS OF PURELL™, and the hand sanitiser category itself, is advising organisations, particularly those in the care sector that look after the elderly and the vulnerable, to take steps to lessen the impact of seasonal viruses this winter.

Preparedness can save lives – last year’s influenza programme prevented around 25,000 hospitalisations in England . This autumn and winter, COVID-19, flu, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are likely to be co-circulating which, according to Dr Marc-Alain Widdowson, who leads WHO's High-threat Pathogen team, ‘would increase the risk to vulnerable populations and put further pressure on health services.’

Whilst flu vaccines are a powerful weapon, good hand hygiene is a critical measure in the battle against winter infections. For healthcare and long-term care settings, which support vulnerable patients, GOJO recommends paying extra attention to their specific needs.

Chris Wakefield, V.P. European Marketing and Managing Director UK & Ireland, GOJO Industries-Europe

Ltd. comments: ‘As a founder member of the World Health Organization (WHO) Private Organizations for Patient Safety group, GOJO is a strong advocate of making hand hygiene second nature to everyone. Hospitals and care homes need to ensure that the protection solutions they select are suitable for everyone with a facility – staff, visitors, and patients alike.

‘For example, consider touch-free dispensers that are easier for the elderly and infirm to operate, and ensure that the formulations are suitable too. They must not only have proven efficacy against germs, but should be gentle enough to care for resident’s delicate skin as well as that of busy healthcare workers, who clean their hands repeatedly during a shift.’

Widely used in the NHS, PURELL® is a trusted brand in healthcare facilities around the world. Its solutions encompass fast-acting, effective formulas that care for skin, state of the art dispensers, and dedicated support such as the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) accredited training.

For a tailored, effective, total solution for your setting, or for more information on the benefits of partnering with GOJO, please call +44 (0)1908 588444, email CustomerExperienceUK@GOJO.com, or visit www.gojo.eu/uk

edencleen from Cleenol

• 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. edencleen’s new range represents just the start to a fully refreshed solution to meet the most demanding of customers expectations.

See the advert on this page for further details.

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 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.

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

PAGE 32 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

WASHROOMS & ACCESSIBLE BATHING

Accessible Bathing in Nursing and Care Environments op appropriate care plans.

The risk assessment should take into account the resident's physical and cognitive abilities, mobility, sensory impairments, medical conditions, medication, and history of falls or injuries. The assessment should also consider the design and layout of the bathing facilities, including the type of bath or shower, flooring, lighting, temperature, water pressure, and grab rails. Based on the assessment, the care team can develop a care plan that addresses the resident's individual needs and preferences, such as the frequency and timing of bathing, the use of aids and equipment, and the involvement of family or caregivers.

TRAINING AND SKILLS

Accessible bathing in UK care and nursing homes is essential to provide residents with the best possible care. It is vital to ensure that the bathing experience is safe, comfortable, and respectful of their dignity and privacy. In this article, we will explore various aspects of accessible bathing in care and nursing homes, including health and safety, risk assessment, training, injuries, aids and equipment, technology, flooring, infection control, and patient dignity and guidance.

HEALTH AND SAFETY The safety and health of residents are crucial in accessible bathing.

Bathing environments should be free of hazards that could cause harm to residents or staff. Regular checks should be carried out to ensure that the facilities are safe, and any issues should be promptly addressed. Loose or broken tiles, damaged or worn flooring, and broken fittings should be fixed or replaced immediately. Appropriate signage should be used to remind staff and residents of the safety guidelines when using the bathing facilities.

RISK ASSESSMENT A risk assessment should be carried out before residents use the bathing facilities. This assessment should identify any potential risks or hazards, including mobility and other health conditions that may affect the resident's ability to use the facilities safely. The risk assessment should also consider the type of equipment required for residents to use the facilities safely. For example, some residents may require handrails, shower chairs, or other equipment to assist them in the bathing process.

HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS Bathing is a routine activity that most people take for granted.

However, for people with mobility or sensory impairments, bathing can pose significant risks of falls, injury, and other complications. Therefore, it is essential to conduct a thorough risk assessment of each resident's bathing needs and capabilities to identify potential hazards and devel-

Providing safe and effective bathing requires specific skills and knowledge, such as manual handling, infection control, first aid, and communication. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that all care staff who are involved in bathing residents receive appropriate training and support. The training should cover topics such as: • The importance of hygiene and cleanliness • The risks of infection and cross-contamination • The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) • The use of aids and equipment, such as hoists, shower chairs, and bath lifts • The techniques for assisting residents with personal care, including washing, drying, and dressing • The management of challenging behaviours or communication difficulties • The monitoring of the resident's health and well-being during and after bathing • The reporting and recording of incidents or concerns.

The training should be delivered by qualified and experienced trainers who can tailor the content to the specific needs of the care home and its residents. The training should also be regularly updated and reinforced to ensure that staff maintain their skills and knowledge.

INJURIES AND ACCIDENTS Despite the best efforts to promote safety and minimize risks, accidents and injuries can still occur during bathing. The most common types of injuries are falls, burns, scalds, and skin tears. Therefore, it is essential to have robust procedures in place for reporting and managing incidents, including first aid, medical treatment, and investigation.

The care home should have clear protocols for responding to emergencies and incidents, such as the availability of first aid kits, defibrillators, and emergency contacts. The staff should be trained in basic first aid and emergency procedures, and there should be designated first aiders and fire wardens on duty at all times.

TECHNOLOGY Technology can play a significant role in accessible bathing, with innovations such as digital showers and temperature-controlled taps providing increased comfort and safety for residents. For example, some taps can automatically turn off if the water temperature gets too high, reducing the risk of scalds.

FLOORING The flooring in accessible bathing facilities should be slip-resistant to reduce the risk of falls. It is essential to ensure that flooring is regularly maintained and replaced if necessary to prevent accidents.

INFECTION CONTROL Infection control is crucial in accessible bathing. Staff should follow strict guidelines to prevent the spread of infections, such as regular cleaning and disinfecting of equipment and surfaces. Residents with infections should be isolated to prevent the spread of illness to others.

PATIENT DIGNITY AND GUIDANCE Residents' dignity and privacy should be respected at all times during accessible bathing. Staff should ensure that residents are treated with respect and that their dignity is maintained throughout the bathing process. Residents should also be given guidance on how to use the facilities and any equipment to ensure that they feel comfortable and safe.

CONCLUSION Accessible bathing is an essential aspect of providing quality care to residents in UK care and nursing homes. Health and safety, risk assessment, training, injuries, aids and equipment, technology, flooring, infection control, and patient dignity and guidance are all crucial considerations when designing and maintaining accessible bathing facilities. By prioritizing these aspects, care and nursing homes can ensure that residents receive safe, comfortable, and respectful care during the bathing process.

AIDS AND EQUIPMENT Accessible bathing requires the use of specific equipment and aids to assist residents. These may include handrails, shower chairs, bath hoists, and walk-in baths. It is vital to ensure that the equipment is regularly maintained and that staff are trained in its correct use.

NEW: Omnicare Digital Shower for Level Access Bathrooms Triton has unveiled its new Omnicare Digital solution, designed for safer showering in level access bathrooms.

Expanding its industry-leading collection of Omnicare electric care showers, the latest launch from Britain’s leading shower manufacturer has Bluetooth compatibility, enabling it to automatically pair with a Whale Instant Match pump, evacuating wastewater from showers where gravity cannot do so.

Ideal for both new build and retrofit applications, the product joins Triton’s existing Omnicare, Omnicare Ultra and Omnicare Design products to form a complete range of inclusive thermostatic showering solutions.

Packed with innovative features, the Omnicare Digital switches off instantly if power to the pump is cut for any reason, preventing flooding. Quiet in operation, the unit controls the pump’s speed based on flow rates, so gulley suction noise is minimised.

With a small footprint, the pump can be installed in various locations, including bathrooms, airing cupboards and other accessible locations – making it easier and faster for contractors to fit and maintain. A 7m pairing distance through Bluetooth wireless technology also offers flexibility for the pump to be sited outside the bathroom area.

Triton’s latest launch has been developed to support the continuing trend of multi-generational living amid an ageing demographic. Last year, CBRE found that 1.8m UK households now contain two or more adult generations.

Ashley Cooper, Marketing Director at Triton Showers, said: “An increasing number of people are living in multi-generational households, whether due to a shortage in housing stock, cost-of-living crisis, or the population living longer. Therefore, properties must be adapted accordingly, allowing people of varying ages with different needs and abilities to share facilities.

“We launched Omnicare Digital for this type of application, further strengthening our collection of thermostatic care showers. The new model helps users with reduced mobility and can be specified in wet room applications, while still offering all the safety features that are included across our Omnicare range.”

British Electrotechnical Approvals Board (BEAB) Care Mark approved, all models in the Omnicare range have a maximum temperature setting of 43°C and are equipped with thermostatic temperature control to prevent scalding and sudden drops in water temperature, regulating within +/-1°C. Additionally, to help users of all abilities wash easily and safely, Omnicare products are Royal National Institute for Blind (RNIB) accredited and included audible feedback and tactile controls such as a looped lever handle and soft press start/stop button.

There are additional accessories that can be paired with the Omnicare range to mitigate against slips, trips and falls, including multi-purpose grab riser rail kits and remote start/stop controls.

Triton’s Omnicare Digital shows the manufacturer’s continued commitment to sustainable showering solutions. In Triton’s latest research, it found that an electric shower can cost nearly a third less than a mixer.

Ashley added: “We’re always looking at impact on the planet, whether that’s from our own manufacturing processes or changing the behaviour of those using our products.

For more information about Triton’s Omnicare range, please visit: www.tritonshowers.co.uk/care-showers Contact details: Call: 02476 324 776 Email: specification@tritonshowers.co.uk Web: www.tritonshowers.co.uk/care-showers

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 33

WASHROOMS & ACCESSIBLE BATHING Access And Mobility Bathrooms Access And Mobility Bathrooms is a family owned and run bathroom adaptation specialist that offers a design, supply and installation service for walk in Showers, Wet rooms and Walk in baths.

• Specialist in maintenance free wall panels.

• All building works carried out.

• Free home visits, consultations and quotations. Installed within 8 weeks of order.

As Member of the British Health Care trades associ-

ation, we abide to a code of practice that protects you from pressure selling, over pricing and ensures quality of work and products.

Enquiries welcome from privately funded customers and business to business.

For further information call 01626 903181, email info@accessmobilitybathrooms.co.uk or visit www.accessmobilitybathrooms.co.uk

Upgrade Your Air Freshener System To Keep Washrooms Constantly Fresh

The challenges with current air fresheners Washrooms are the biggest source of complaints, accounting for over 45% of the complaints that facility managers receive.1 In addition, recent research from Tork tells us that 67% of employees say they’re more likely to complain about a washroom than any other aspect of their office.2 Therefore, it’s crucial that washrooms are run efficiently to ensure a standard of cleanliness that makes people feel cared for.

A new air freshener that distributes scent evenly and continuously Tork has launched a new system that makes keeping your washrooms constantly fresh much easier. It uses a unique, high-tech technology that is propellant free to neutralise odours continuously and evenly.

Research shows that the most important factor customers state when selecting an air care product is the “long lasting performance”3. The Tork Constant Air

Freshener can last for up to 90 days before needing a refill, with a range of scents that eliminate bad odours, creating a consistent, fresh washroom experience, which helps facility managers to avoid washroom complaints.

A system that is easy to maintain and refill 71% of cleaning staff agreed that if washroom dispensers were quicker and easier to refill, they would have more time for other cleaning tasks2. The Tork Constant Air Freshener dispenser is certified ‘Easy to use’ for speedy refilling.4 Its flexible placement at reachable heights also allows for easy maintenance.

Refills and battery changes can also be planned into existing cleaning routines to save staff valuable time.

IoT connected dispensers With Tork Vision Cleaning, the world’s leading data-driven cleaning solution, cleaning staff will now know exactly when and where to refill all Tork dispensers in the washroom. The new air freshener dispenser will enable them to keep the dispensers replenished and save time by avoiding unnecessary checks.

It’s easy to provide a great washroom experience with smart, sustainable hygiene management from Tork.

For more information, please visit Tork.co.uk. For more information on Tork air freshener, please visit Tork.co.uk/airfreshener.

PLEASE MENTION THE CARER WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTISING

PAGE 34 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

WASHROOMS & ACCESSIBLE BATHING

How Care Homes in the UK Can Save Money and Improve Residents' Mental Well Being Gary Seale, MD of iDry Ltd, manufacturer of in shower body dryers is baffled.

It's fantastic to hear about iDry's success and the growing demand for its innovative products, but the success isn’t being seen in the country of manufacture! The company's expansion into international markets, especially securing its largest ever export order heading to Holland, speaks volumes about the global appeal of their technology, the ever present demands to cut costs and improve patients well being, all well documented and accepted.

Gary Seale, is optimistic about the overseas reception, especially in the care sector. Yet the UK seems to lag behind Europe.

Gary asks, don’t UK care homes want to reduce care hours, improve the well being of patients and reduce costs too?

The emphasis on cost savings and environmental impact is noteworthy. iDry's technology not only provides efficient drying solutions but also addresses economic and ecological concerns. The comparison of the cost of laundering towels versus the cost of a five-minute session with the body dryer highlights the practical benefits.

The case study below highlights how a 30 room assisted living complex actually had a payback on their iDry Apres units of only 7 weeks, releasing over 117 hours of direct care every month, Surely that sort of saving should be snapped up by Care home owners?

Gary continued, out of a study of over 800 people in Bury Town centre over 93% had never heard of an in shower body dryer, out of the remaining 7% I genuinely think most were being polite and hadn’t got a clue.

Whether direct contact, assisted bathing or attended bathing, the iDry can provide users with amongst other things their DIGNITY being returned even in miniscule amounts.

CASE STUDY When Tonnie Bieleman wants to vacuum his apartment in the De Klokkenbelt residential facility in Almelo or turn on the lights, he tells his Google Home. He is dependent on care 24/7 I can do my thing quietly and don't have to hurry because someone is waiting who has to go to the next resident.'

THE INSTALLATION ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH The Klokkenbelt is a residential location of InteraktContour, an organization that provides care and support to people with NAH in a large part of eastern and central Netherlands. The former care home in

Almelo has recently been completely redesigned and made suitable for future-proof habitation. Large-scale use of modern technology has been made with the help of the Innovation Impulse for Full Life. This helps make the lives of clients like Tonnie more attractive, more independent and safer. The innovations also save employees time, giving them more time to focus on clients.

'By conducting a needs survey among clients and by actively participating in healthcare, we discovered how technology can support healthcare, Because the installation alone is not enough. It turned out to be a project in itself to make innovations part of the healthcare process.'

The iDry Apres Body Dryer saves per patient over 23 hours of direct care every month Because people like Tonnie are becoming more self-reliant, technology also influences the way healthcare is organised. For example, in unplanned care, the number of calls from residents for everyday minor matters decreased by hundreds per month. After all, no one has to come for simple things like operating the lighting or curtains anymore. But it also turned out that many hours could be saved in planned care, sometimes with larger and less mundane adjustments. For example, with the Body dryer that Tonnie received in his bathroom, he can now dry himself after showering. This saves over 23 hours of direct care every month.

Employees now spend that time on other things.

"They now help me get out of bed in the morning, for safety reasons," says Tonnie. 'I can then shave independently in 45 minutes, take a shower and dry myself with the help of the Apres body dryer. Only then do I alert care again, and then they come and help me get dressed.

Previously, a healthcare provider had to be present all the time. In the meantime, he can now work with someone else.' Apart from the time savings and the regained independence, the innovation in his bathroom also helps Tonnie feel better physically and more important mentally , he has got back a sense of dignity 'I have a lot of cramps in my arm and leg. It's nice to have warmth there and to be able to do that calmly and relaxed, without feeling rushed.'

Tonnie cannot emphasize enough how important it is for him that he is once again in control of his own life, partly thanks to technology. He went through a deep valley after two cerebral infarctions and a double pulmonary embolism destroyed him eight years ago. 'I was a project leader and managed many people every day. And suddenly I was completely dependent on others, after 49 years of being able to do everything myself. Then you really go crazy.'

Tonnie moved to an InteraktContour residential location in Lelystad five years ago, now lives in the Klokkenbelt and is very happy with the innovations he has there.

THE MORE INDEPENDENT THE RESIDENTS, THE MORE POSITIVE 'Things are really going better now. My disability no longer changes, but this technique makes my life enormously more pleasant. I can regain some of my dignity. It may seem simple to others, but it really means a lot to me. Now when my wife comes to visit in the evening, it's fun again. And it also changes the relationship you have with the employees. I no longer have to call them for every little thing, and because of the time savings that everything yields, there is also time for a conversation. That is real progress.'

Marieke van den Berg, e-health task holder at Klokkenbelt, also sees this. And it works both ways, she says. 'The more our residents regain their independence, the more positive they become. This makes them feel better about themselves. Cutting costs and saving time by innovating is a bonus, but the fact that residents can do things again that they could do before also gives us a lot of satisfaction. This leads to less stress and improves the quality of care.'

For further information on iDry and how they can save your facility money while also improving your residents' wellbeing , visit www.idry.me or call 0800 933 0020.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 35

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

Revolutionising Care Homes with Forbes Connect: A New Era in Commercial Laundry In the fast-evolving landscape of care homes, Forbes Professional takes a significant step forward with the introduction of Forbes Connect; featuring state-of-the-art Miele washers, dryers, and dishwashers. This innovative new offering seamlessly integrates technology to deliver an unparalleled connected laundry experience for care facilities.

At the heart of Forbes Connect is a ground-breaking 24/7 intelligent remote monitoring system, providing both our engineers and our clients with real-time insights into the operational status of Miele laundry machines. This transformative feature ensures a pro-active approach to maintenance, further reducing any downtime and enhancing the overall efficiency of laundry operations.

Our dedicated team of engineers operate from an expansive network around the UK and are ready for intervention should issues be digitally identified. This proactive approach minimises disruptions and helps us remotely identify faults to increase first time fix rates. It also optimises the lifespan of Miele commercial laundry machines, offering care homes peace of mind and uninterrupted service.

When a fault is detected, Forbes Connect ensures a prompt response by sending notifications directly to

our customer service team. Leveraging advanced logistics, our team efficiently allocates engineers based on proximity and availability, guaranteeing a swift resolution to any laundry machine issues.

In line with the global push for sustainability, Forbes Connect goes a step further by monitoring temperature and water resource usage. This invaluable tool not only aids care homes in achieving their sustainability targets but also sheds light on the true efficiency of Miele commercial laundry machines. Care facilities can now make informed decisions to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on the quality of service.

Forbes Connect is another step in our commitment to revolutionise the laundry experience in care homes. By harnessing cutting-edge technology, we empower care facilities to deliver impeccable service seamlessly, ensuring that residents' comfort and well-being remain at the forefront of every operation. Welcome to the future of commercial laundry with Forbes Connect and Miele – where innovation meets care. www,forbespro.co.uk info@forbes-professional.co.uk 0345 070 2335

Laundry Specialists Lavamac Receive Sustainability Award Chester based Laundry professionals Lavamac Ltd, official distributor of Lavamac industrial laundry equipment has received the prestigious Bronze Sustaibnability award in recognition of their policies and procedures based commitment to maintain a sustainable business for ourselves or customers and the environment The three main points Lavamac have been recognised for are: 1. Air source heat pump dryers , connected load 3kw as opposed to 30Kw for a 16kg electric dryer and 25-30 kw for Gas , clean efficient and saving the planet available from £10995 fully refurbished to £16995.00 new both with 24 months parts and labour warranty and the option to extend and cost effective annual premium ?

2.Refurbished Equipment, we completely rebuild any current model of Primus , Lavamac or Ipso washers , dryers and ironers . I full ground up restoration leaves these machines as good ( if not better than ) New ! sold , rented of leased these machines are between 40-50% of cost of their new equivalent with a warranty as new 24 months parts and labour ( see attached literature on our product range ) 3.Intelligent washings machines ( In conjunction with our partners www.countrywidehealthcare.co.uk ) we can potentially reduce chemical usage by up to 35% and labour by 30 %

Additionally • Our offices in Chester utilise Solar Panels and we create more electricity than we consume • In 2024 we are committed to replacing all service vehicles with Hybrid models • In 2024 all cars will be upgraded to EV models • We have implement a new software system ( Big Change ) removes paper documentation and utilising smart technology will reduce road mileage between calls and improve response times A delighted Jeremy Hartigan CEO of Lavamac Ltd said: “I am extremely proud to announce that Lavamac have been awarded a prestigious Bronze Sustainability Award by the UK Groundworks Trust. This award demonstrates our commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility within the sector. This award is renowned for honouring businesses that demonstrate exceptional dedication and innovation, and we are thrilled to be recognised for our resolute focus on offering sustainable products and services while raising awareness about the importance of environmental concerns within the sector”.

See the advert below for further information on Lavamac.

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LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS Washing Machines for Care Homes MAG Laundry Equipment, suppliers of commercial washing machines & tumble dryers, is proud to have supported more than 10,000 care homes across the nation.

Clean laundry and bedding is critical for care homes, hospices, nursing homes, hospitals and other healthcare organisations. With a nationwide fleet of accredited engineers MAG Laundry Equipment has successfully assisted over ten thousand care homes with their products, services, information and support.

MAG’s product range includes commercial washing machines, tumble dryers, ironers, presses and detergents. For 100 years, since 1922, MAG’s products have been developed and improved to become some of the

most reliable, energy-efficient and affordable machines on the market. Care homes have peace-of-mind that their laundry machines can quickly be maintained and repaired as MAG Laundry Equipment supply, install and service equipment across England, Scotland and Wales.

If you are looking for high quality wash results that remove stubborn stains then speak with MAG for their recommendations. Complete thermal disinfection is a standard feature on their washing machines for nursing homes. To find out more about how MAG can support your care home telephone 01353 883025 or visit the www.maglaundryequipment.co.uk website.

Preserving Identity and Preventing Loss: Cash's Apparel Solutions' Century-Long Legacy

PLEASE MENTION THE CARER WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTISING

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

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LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS Improving Laundry Sustainability An efficient and effective laundry operation is essential for the hygienic operation of every care home. It remains nonetheless a considerable and unavoidable user of water and energy. Reducing energy and water consumption offer the potential to reduce environmental impacts and improve the long-term sustainability of the home. Realistically though, how much room is there for improvement?

Some of the latest laundry tech offers a lot.

Girbau’s next generation Genius smart washers are designed to lower water, detergent and energy consumption while boosting productivity. These innovative high spin washers can achieve up to 450G extract force for astounding levels of water extraction, faster drying and lower energy use. Tests on the Genius GS7018 found that it used 2.5 kWh for a full 18kg load cycle, compared to 3.5kWh for a comparable washer from a leading competitor. For a typical machine completing eight cycles per day, that’s a saving of over £900 a year, based on an electricity price of 31p per kWh. An optional integral weighing system measures every load and automatically adjusts programs to further optimise cycle time, lower water and chemical usage

and improve productivity. The new unique Care Plus Drum extends linen life and decreases tangling. The drum perforations also provide faster dispersion of water.

Genius washers offer unmatched durability and a high degree of programmability with high-speed spinning and automatic chemical dosing. The impact-resistant, full colour 10.5-inch waterproof screen is the industry’s largest. It features user-friendly icons that can be used while wearing gloves.

Girbau’s Sapphire remote-control software that is standard on Genius washers gives easy, flexible and versatile control. You can manage the laundry, compile production reports and analyse data remotely in real time from any device. Sapphire can also be used to configure washers to operate and record the use of thermal disinfection programs, essential in every care home.

For energy efficient drying, Girbau’s premium ED series dryers ensure all items are dried safely, uniformly, efficiently and cost-effectively. Their unique Transflow technology combines radial and axial airflow for maximum efficiency, reduced cycle times and lower energy costs. Cabinet insulation and a double-glazed door also prevent heat escaping.

Girbau is also currently working with care providers looking to entirely decarbonise their laundry operations by switching from gas to electric dryers and sourcing 100% renewable electricity.

Tel: 01462 427780 | Email: sales.uk@girbau.com | Website: www.girbau.com

MAG Laundry Detergents Gillman’s Appliance Specialists When it comes to maintaining cleanliness and comfort in care homes and nursing homes, it is crucial to choose the right laundry products. That's why many care homes in the UK trust MAG Laundry Detergents for their laundry needs.

Their specially formulated commercial laundry detergents, stain removers and fabric softeners are designed to tackle the most common soils found in senior care facilities.

MAG's laundry solutions are unmatched in ensuring that your laundry and linen remains clean, bright, and soft. With the high-quality laundry products found at www.maglaundry-

detergents.co.uk you can provide your residents with the freshness and cleanliness they deserve, helping you uphold the highest standards of care for your organisation.

A true family run business established in Gloucester in 1969

by Erika and John Gillman.

We pride ourselves on product knowledge, customer service and being a truly family run independent business.

We work closely with our commercial manufacturers to provide the highest quality service.

purchase or lease purchase basis.

COMMERCIAL WASHING MACHINES

COMMERCIAL IRONING & FINISHING MACHINES

We provide commercial and industrial washing machines to many industry sectors such as Care homes, Schools and Colleges, Vets, Holiday parks and the Hospitality sector.

We can supply machines from 6KG upwards on a rental, purchase or lease purchase basis and even put maintenance on your existing machines, contact us to learn more.

We provide rotary ironers from 1 meter wide to 3.2 metres wide with Gas, Electric or Steam heat and can provide feedings, folding and stacking machines.

In addition to rotary ironers we can also supply vacuum ironing tables, formers and drying cabinets.

COMMERCIAL TUMBLE DRYERS

With a team of 18 in house service engineers equipped with vans containing a comprehensive stock of spare parts we have a very high "First Fix" rate meaning a fault is diagnosed and repaired on the first visit.

Fully trained installation team with CHAS, Gas Safe, Construction line and F-gas commercial refrigeration accreditation.

For further information, please see the advert below.

We can supply commercial and industrial dryers that are Electric, Gas or Steam heated; and commercial heat pump and condensing models for sites where ventilation proves a challenge.

We work with Care homes, Schools and Colleges, Vets, Commercial laundries, Holiday parks and the Hospitality sector and can supply machines from 6KG and upwards on a rental,

COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY & DISHWASHING CHEMICALS As well as providing the machines we can also provide a complete range of laundry chemicals such as detergents, conditioners, destainers, emulsifiers and even Electrolux Professional Lagoon wet cleaning chemicals.

COMMERCIAL SERVICE & REPAIRS

PAGE 40 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

DEMENTIA CARE Rise & Shine Game Promotes Mobility and Wellbeing In an effort to combat the nationwide issue of reduced mobility among senior citizens, an exciting game called "Rise & Shine" is making waves in healthcare and social care communities.

Developed with the goal of encouraging physical activity in elderly individuals, this innovative game consists of 30 uniquely designed tiles, adorned with playful illustrations by renowned artist and sculptor Bob Olley.

The game is designed to be played in group settings, with healthcare staff identifying participants who would benefit from engaging in physical activity. After receiving their tiles, participants join in activities suited to their needs, such as chair exercises or walking. Once the activities are completed, tiles are placed into the "Rise & Shine Post-

box." As the game progresses, a draw determines the winner, who receives a small prize.

Rise & Shine has been trialled successfully at Sunderland Royal Hospital and South Tyneside District Hospital. Feedback from both patients and staff has been overwhelmingly positive, with improvements in mobility and morale noted among participants.

By incorporating Rise & Shine into their routines, caregivers and healthcare providers can play a crucial role in keeping our elderly community active, engaged, and mobile, ultimately enhancing their wellbeing and independence. www.riseandshinegame.com or see the advert on the front cover.

Activities to Share

Tired of the same old song and dance when it comes to planning engaging activities? Well, fear not!

Activities to Share is here to sprinkle some excitement into your daily routine.

If you've been feeling like you're stuck in a creative rut, we've got the antidote.

Picture this: a wonderland of activity ideas, free downloads that are basically the golden ticket to fun, and a treasure trove of products that'll make your heart skip a beat (in a good way).

We get it – after a while, even the most fantastic activities can start feeling a bit blah. That's why we've scoured the corners of creativity to bring you fresh, fabulous ideas that'll have you and your crew grinning from ear to ear.

Our website, activitiestoshare.co.uk, is your go-to haven for all things fun and engaging. Need a burst of inspiration? We've got your back. Looking for

activities tailored to different abilities? We've got that covered too!

But wait, there's more!

We've teamed up with carers and activity coordinators across the land to ensure that every product and idea we offer is topnotch and practically oozing with fun. And if you've got a creative itch that needs scratching, we're here to help you bring your unique ideas to life!

So, don't let boredom sneak in. Join us on this adventure of "going the extra smile" because, let's face it, smiles are the best currency around here.

See all of the above here at www.activitiestoshare.co.uk

Inspired Inspirations: Revolutionising UK's Care Sector with the Tiny Tablet In an era where technology infiltrates every aspect of life, it's paramount for care establishments to harness its potential for enhancing the quality of life for those they care for. One pioneering name stands out in this endeavour - Inspired Inspirations. This innovative company has been leading the transformation of care

through its state-of-the-art Tiny Tablet touch screen activity tables.

The impact of the Tiny Tablet across the UK's care sector is nothing short of transformative. Crafted with precision, these activity tables are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals in care settings. The interactive features and user-friendly interface offer residents an engaging experience that transcends the limitations often associated with traditional care environments. From stimulating cognitive functions to enhancing social interactions, the benefits are manifold. Residents can revisit old memories, connect with loved ones, explore the world, and engage in enriching activities, all with just a touch.

But what truly sets Inspired Inspirations apart is not just their groundbreaking product but their holistic approach to integrating technology into care. Recognising that the most advanced tools are only as effective as the hands that wield them, the company prioritises the training of care staff. They believe in empowering caregivers with the skills and knowledge required to maximise the potential of touch screen devices.

Their comprehensive training modules ensure that care professionals are well-equipped to provide those being cared for with meaningful, enriching interactions using the Tiny Tablet.

Further amplifying their commitment to quality care through technology, Inspired Inspirations has penned an invaluable guide titled "Project Wellbeing: Unleash the Power of Technology in Care". This book is a testament to their deep expertise and dedication to the cause. It offers readers insights into the best practices for integrating technology into care settings and ensuring that residents reap the myriad benefits. By sharing their vast knowledge and experiences, Inspired Inspirations is fostering a care community that is both tech-savvy and deeply compassionate. This can be ordered from Amazon, or Inspired Inspirations own website www.inspired-inspirations.com In conclusion, as the UK's care sector faces unprecedented challenges, companies like Inspired Inspirations are paving the way for a brighter, tech-enabled future. Their remarkable Tiny Tablet touch screen activity tables, coupled with their dedication to staff training and knowledge dissemination, position them as true trailblazers.

For care establishments looking to embrace the future and offer unparalleled experiences to the people they care for, a partnership with Inspired Inspirations is not just recommended, it's essential.

See the advert on the facing page for further details.

PLEASE MENTION THE CARER WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTISERS

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NURSE CALL AND FALLS MANAGEMENT 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 sys-

tems 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.

Phone: 01837 810590 Email: contact@frequencyprecision.com Website: www.frequencyprecision.com

point then add a 2-1 adapter In addition The Floor Pressure Mat has a heavy non slip backing, It comes professionally sealed so can easily be cleaned for liquid spills and is fully serviceable.

And carries a 12 Month guarantee 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 our NEW WEBSITE at www.lctuk.com for details.

Lotus Care Technology

PLEASE MENTION THE CARER WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTISING

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.

Designed to combat the problem of residents who are inclined to walk undetected, The Nurse Alert Mat can help protect residents especially at night that are at risk of falls and accidents.

This Nurse Alert Mat can be placed typically at the bedside or at the door threshold and plugged into the call socket of the Nurse Call system or the mobile Floor Sentry Monitor.

It can then alert staff for example before the resident is up and about, sounding the alarm with a small amount of pressure thus enabling staff to investigate.

Need to add a pear push lead in the same call

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 43

NURSE CALL AND FALLS MANAGEMENT

Fall Savers - Affordable Fall Monitoring Solutions 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 patients; less work for staff Bed and chair 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 SENSOR PAD

The TreadNought® Floor Sensor Pad is built to last with a durable construction that far out lasts the competition. Our anti-bacterial floor

sensor pad is compatible with most nurse call systems or can be used with a portable pager to sound an alert when a person steps on to the sensor pad. Caregivers typically place the sensor pad at the bedside, in a doorway or other locations to monitor persons at risk for falls or wandering. An optional anti-slip mesh reduces the potential for slippage on hard surface floors.

FEATURES INCLUDE: Connects directly to most nurse call systems High Quality anti-bacterial Floor Sensor Pad Large Size Pad: Measures (L) 91cm x (H) 61cm Options (sold separately): Anti-slip mesh for hard surface floors See the advert on this page for further details or visit www.fallsavers.co.uk.

Medpage Advanced Domestic and Blaucomm Ltd Telecommunications & Networks Commercial Fall Prevention Systems 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 would highly recommend this to anybody who wants to replace expensive pagers and silence those annoyingly loud nurse call screens!”

To find out more about Blaucomm NMS, visit www.blaucomm.co.uk/healthcare See the advert on the front cover for more details.

Medpage Limited has manufactured care aid technologies for 40 years and our brand is widely used in hospitals and commercial care establishments. We supply fall prevention and detection systems to suit most requirements to ensure patient safety and regulation compliance. We are a major contributor and supplier of equipment to the hospital patient discharge project, where Assistive Technology items are issued to aid independent living and keep people safer at home.

We offer expert technical advice, support, and product guidance for customers unsure of their requirements. Our reputation for delivering quality services, quality products, competitive pricing, and our passionate commitment to developing new and improved technologies is acknowledged by the majority of Local Authorities in the UK.

Our latest fall prevention system based around our MPCSA11 sensor controller was successfully tested in Cardiff Royal Infirmary, Enfield and Barnet NHS, Potters Bar, Edgeware, and is now adopted and implemented as part of their falls management programmes.

The CSA11WBCK system is unique in that it allows a patient with mobility to freely transfer from bed to chair and into a monitored area, such as the washroom, without causing an alarm so long as the patient is detected by a sensor, bed, chair, or movement. If the patient fails to return to their bed or chair the alarm outputs become active alerting radio pagers, nurse call trigger, or dispersed alarm dialler.

To find out more about Medpage fall prevention systems visit www.easylinkuk.co.uk Professionalwandering-falls.

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NURSE CALL AND FALLS MANAGEMENT

Arquella - Connected Technology, Connected Care ARQUELLA, a leading care technology provider, offers solutions to enhance the quality of care in nursing and residential homes across the United Kingdom.

Arquella is passionate about making a difference in the quality of care provided to nursing and residential homes across the United Kingdom. Through the power of technology, we have developed cutting-edge solutions that are accessible and supportive, putting people at the forefront.

As part of a nationwide initiative driven by a £25m UK government funding pledge to enhance the quality of care and support individuals’ independence, Arquella is proud to be at the forefront of the digital transformation in the care sector.

Falls in care homes are a significant concern in the UK, with residents three times more likely to fall than older people living in their own homes. Arquella’s innovative solution, Arquella Sense, utilising sensor-based technology, and Arquella Call, a digital nurse call system, will improve reactive care and reduce risk.

Arquella Sense uses discreet wall or ceiling-mounted sensors to monitor fall risk behaviour 24 hours daily, alerting carers via mobile handsets. The technology aims to intervene before falls occur, increasing safety and providing a cost-effective solution to cumbersome mats.

Arquella Call is an app-based digital nurse call system that delivers in-depth digital records and future-proof functionality. It integrates seamlessly with other software applications, offering actionable data to help shape care delivery and adjust staffing levels.

Arquella is at the forefront of a digital transformation revolution in the care sector.

Technology is more important than ever in providing insights and actionable data to inform decisions and improve lives.

For more information about Arquella’s products and how they can benefit your care home, please call 0333 242 7505 or visit their website at www.arquella.co.uk

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, emedication, 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 advert below.

www.nursecallsystems.co.uk

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TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE First Free E-Learning Resource on Data Security and Protection for Care Staff Launched Care providers can now improve and assess their staff’s knowledge of data security and protection using a new elearning resource, specifically designed for the care sector.

Better Security, Better Care – the national programme supporting adult care providers with data security - has developed the course in response to a gap in the market.

Speaking about the new course, Michelle Corrigan, Programme Director of Better Security, Better Care, said: "Care providers told us that they struggle to access relevant training for their staff on data protection and cyber security. Our course content reflects all care settings and staff roles – from home care and residential services, to frontline care workers and administrators. There are lots of videos, case studies and interactive elements which enable staff to understand their role in keeping both print and digital data safe.

“Care providers also said that it can be challenging to meet the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) requirement to train at least 95 per cent of staff on data protection in the previous 12 months. This course has been specifically designed to meet that requirement.

“We have made the course completely open access, without any need to register or login because we want to maximise the number of people using it – especially staff in small care services. But it is also available as a SCORM compliant resource for providers who have a Learning Management System."

The course, which reinforces the Data Security Standards and the Care Certificate, includes four modules and one online assessment. Each module takes around 10 – 20 minutes to complete, and there is one single

assessment covering topics from all four modules. Staff can complete the modules in any order and over the course of several days.

Care managers, trainers and staff can access the course and corresponding user guides at www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/elearning The course modules are: Module 1: Data protection rights and responsibilities covers the importance of data security and protection in the care system and staff’s personal responsibility to handle data safely.

Module 2: Keeping data secure covers the importance of keeping data secure through good record keeping and data disposal, and how to share confidential data securely.

Module 3: Threats to data security looks at the threats to data security that employees might encounter, including common types of fraud and scams and how to safely use and keep digital and paper records.

Module 4: Data breaches explains what data breaches are, the causes of data breaches and what to do in the event of a breach.

Assessment quiz: The assessment includes 20 questions relating to all four modules. Trainees are required to get 80% or more correct in order to download the certificate.

The course, which was developed and tested in partnership with care providers, has been welcomed by the sector.

Dr Jane Townson, Chair of the Care Provider Alliance representing the 10 national care provider trade associations, encourages members to use the course saying: “Care providers are increasingly aware of how important it is to train their staff on good data and cyber security practice. But until now, there hasn’t been anything really tailored to the specific needs and circumstances faced by our sector’s staff.

“This new elearning course from Better Security, Better Care is the missing piece of the puzzle – and it complies with the training requirements in the Data Security and Protection Toolkit.

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.

Assured by NHS Transformation Directorate, PASS provides a secure platform that allows you to plan, record and evidence the care you deliver. The only assured solution built specifically for the home care sector, it provides comprehensive real-time functionality and allows you to share progress against outcomes with customisable, exportable reports.

CARE PLANNING AND ROSTERING FROM A SINGLE PLATFORM 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

“The Care Provider Alliance encourages all care providers to use the resource to improve and assess their staff’s knowledge.”

Tom Rottinghuis, Data Protection Officer at The Forward Trust who was on the Working Group that developed the course said: “Our safeguarding manager and two of our counsellors … were particularly pleased to see that there is a focus on the need to share – as well as the need to protect – people’s information, and it really shows that data protection is not the enemy of safeguarding and care, but a crucial part of it. You can and must share information in order to ensure people get the support they need.”

“One of the most valuable aspects of the new resources is that they are short... Given the pressure our staff are under, and the high turnover, it is so valuable to have something that is clear, straightforward and flexible to use.”

Care staff who were involved in testing the course fed back: “This will help train all staff easily and at no cost. Very clear and easy, I look forward to using these modules for our staff!”

“I think it is really digestible, and has managed to strike the balance of including all relevant and necessary information whilst the training does not feeling too info heavy to digest.”

“These modules are tailored to the social care context and reflect real situations that a diverse variety of care workers face in different settings.

It’s visual and in plain English so it is very accessible to a wide range of staff including those with English as a second language.”

Visit www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/elearning

single platform, designed to: • Save you time • Increase the efficiency of your teams • Improve the quality of care • Deliver better outcomes

INTEGRATED HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE Our commitment to the continual evolution of PASS is further illustrated by the addition of GP Connect.

The first product of its type to offer this feature, PASS is still one of only a handful of digital care management solutions to have completed this NHS Digital integration, and is the only one offering it to the home care market.

PASS GP Connect provides authorised social care staff with realtime access to their client’s GP records.

It makes medical information available when and where it is needed, leading to improvements in both care safety and outcomes:

• Visibility of allergies, vaccinations and medications, especially useful for clients unable to reliably share their personal information • Using medical information to inform care planning • Ensuring that the right medication is delivered to the right person in the timeliest manner. In one case, this allowed the administration of antibiotics on a Friday evening, aiding the service user’s swift recovery from infection Available to all PASS users at no additional cost, PASS GP Connect is significantly more efficient than waiting for a GP response. It’s also a positive step forward on the path to the DHSC’s goal for widespread digitally enabled care and is in full alignment with their ambition for joined up care for everyone.

Get in touch: www.everylifetechnologies.com hello@everylifetechnoloiges.com

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 47

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE Taking Control of Time and Attendance in Social Care The social care industry faces unique challenges when it comes to managing time and attendance. Ensuring that the right skilled care worker is in the right place, while also juggling staff absences, can be a daunting task.

However, there is a solution that can streamline these processes and give you greater control over absence management: Advanced Time and Attendance software.

One of the key features of time and attendance software is skills mapping.

In social care, it's not always possible to simply roster in another employee to cover a shift. With skills mapping, you have the ability to set parameters that ensure the replacement staff member has the necessary skills for the specific client. So, when a care worker calls in sick or can't make it to their next client, you can seamlessly find and allocate another staff member with the right skillset.

Shift swapping is another valuable tool offered by our time and attendance software. If a care worker is unable to fulfil their shift or make it to their client visit, the shift can be easily swapped with another equally qualified care worker. This ensures continuity of care without disrupting the rest of the schedule.

Additionally, team members may even be able to trade shifts between themselves with approval, reducing the administrative burden on care coordinators.

To make the management of schedules and absences more efficient, time and attendance software offers self-service capabilities. Employees can access cloud-based software at any time to manage their schedules, sickness, and annual leave. This empowers them to take ownership of their own time and reduces the time and effort required for managers to keep tabs on who is where, when, and for how long.

Managing rosters, absence, and payroll in the social care industry can be complex, but it doesn't have to be complicated. With Advanced Time & Attendance solution, you can efficiently configure your rotas, update shifts, and track absences. The software provides real-time data and productivity insights, helping you make informed decisions and optimise your workforce.

Taking control of absences in social care is crucial for maintaining the quality of care provided to clients. Advanced’s Time and Attendance software offers the tools and capabilities needed to streamline processes, allocate skilled staff members, and empower employees to manage their own schedules. By implementing a Time & Attendance solution, you can prioritise client needs while ensuring efficient and effective workforce management.

For more information on Advanced Time and Attendance, you can visit our website www.oneadvanced.com or call 0330 311 6077. See the advert on the back cover of this issue for details.

WhosOffice Online success Helps Care Sector with Shift Planning and Staff Leave Management Kent -based WhosOffice.com is helping the care sector manage staff shifts and leave planning. Currently used by many businesses to manage staff holidays and shift rotas online.

WhosOffice’s CEO, Reg Groombridge, has seen a noticeable shift in the way companies are managing essential HR tasks like coordinating staff time off and shift patterns.

“All companies, including large care homes, hospital pharmacies and the care sector generally are more sensitive than ever to key staff not being available at vital times during a shift. Management, including local managers, need to have a clear vision of whos on shift, day off, who’s on leave or even off sick and be able to plan tasks accordingly to the correct staff.”

“As there continues to be pressure caused by the shortage of skilled and qualified personnel, you need online systems that your whole team can use to see accurate information, wherever they’re located – at head office, care home based, onsite or on the move.”

Knowing who’s on shift or available to cover a shift is the key to success along with who’s qualified to cover certain essential roles and tasks.

“The switch to digital shift planning is driving investment in HR tools like WhosOffice because there can be less face-to-face interaction between staff. Its easier to have an online system that gives everyone from the ground up a clearer picture of who’s on shift, who’s available and qualified to take on tasks that must covered.

Particularly in the care sector you can’t just lean across the desk and ask someone if they’ve booked next week off or when they are next on shift.

“There’s also a need for companies to provide a good employee experience. When recruitment is a challenge, you can’t afford to lose your most valuable people – and a basic mistake like miscalculating someone’s holiday allowance or not logging their time off request can have a huge impact on people’s loyalty to your business.”

“Likewise, it’s important to protect the health and wellbeing of your workforce, to mitigate the risk of someone going off long-term sick.

We’re seeing more companies using the WhosOffice absence management feature to track staff sick leave, so they can identify people who may be struggling with their physical or mental health and offer appropriate support.”

Ever-rising employee expectations have created a stronger business case for investing in HR technologies. When WhosOffice launched in 2015 it was one of the very first online staff shift and leave planners, and many businesses still used paper forms or spreadsheets to track time off. Now, companies of all sizes are modernising their operations to help them attract and retain the best people.

“Fortunately, essential HR tools have become much more affordable in recent years, which means SMEs can use the same, sophisticated software as much larger companies.”

Contact details WhosOffice.com +44 (0)1227 812938 support@whosoffice.com

PAGE 48 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174

PROFESSIONAL, TRAINING & RECRUITMENT The UK Care Market: 2023 Review

• In H1 2023, 45% of closed care home deals we were sold to care providers for ongoing care use and 55% were purchased for residential conversion

OPERATIONAL COSTS Analysis of our consultancy data - which looks at profit and loss accounts from the hundreds of formal valua-

By Rob Kinsman, Regional Director - Healthcare, Christie & Co (www.christie.com) tions - shows a significant increase in costs for care home providers between 2021 and 2023. This clearly reflects We recently launched our 2023 Care Market Review report which analyses a range of topics relating to the UK healthcare business market. Here are some of the key highlights…

HEALTHCARE CAPITAL MARKETS Entering 2023, the care market adapted, with buyers returning albeit with yields adjusting to reflect higher costs of capital and the changing market environment.

Positively, despite the macro-market challenges, there is good demand for care home opportunities, with investors attracted by the strong needs-driven underpin of the sector coupled with long-term index-linked cashflows.

LAND AND DEVELOPMENT The underlying business case for purpose-built care homes remains robust, with a continued need for future-proof market-standard beds in many locations across the UK. Despite operators still facing significant headwinds, the UK care home development market remains active and continues to transact a high volume of new-to-market beds. Sentiment remains positive, with more operators prepared to take leases on new build assets as a way of achieving growth, resulting in an upward movement in rental levels over the 12 months to June 2023.

We are starting to see more domestic and international capital entering the market, attracted by the defensive characteristics of needs-driven Operational Real Estate and the excellent ESG credentials new care homes offer investors. This additional liquidity, accompanied by the continued imbalance between demand and supply of market-standard beds to cater for the rapidly ageing demographic, will support sustainable levels of transactional activity for consented care home development sites in both the short and long-term.

TRANSACTIONAL ANALYSIS When analysing the UK’s elderly care going concern market between 2019 and H1 2023, we found: • Instruction volumes had rebounded, sitting 70% ahead of where they were in H2 2022 • There was a rise in the number of larger care homes (60 beds or more) going up for sale • Only 3% of our transactions were to first-time buyers, this is around a third of the proportion in 2022 • There was an increasing number of transactions concluded by the larger companies and corporates • Independent buyers remain our most active buyer group, accounting for 34% of Christie & Co healthcare deals in 2022 and 36% in 2023 • In 2022,13% of the sales we completed were on a closed basis, this increased to 18% in H1 2023

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.

the wider economic challenges with labour supply constraints and rising energy prices, and the care sector has a greater exposure to a material shift in these costs.

We found that registered managers’ salaries, on average, increased by 13% between 2021 and 2023. There are even greater wage pressures on kitchen staff, with head cook wages increasing by an average of 14%. The situation with maintenance staff is also acute, with wages rising by 18%. An analysis of utility costs shows that heat and light costs have also increased by an average of 19% on a per-occupied bed basis.

LOCAL AUTHORITY FEE RATES We conducted and analysed a Freedom of Information Act survey - covering all local authorities across England, Wales, and Scotland. This revealed: • An average residential fee increase in England of 9.5% compared with 5.4% in 2022/23 • An average nursing fee increase in England of 8.1% compared with 6.8% in 2022/23 • Fee rate levels remain a challenge in some areas, with the increases being insufficient to offset inflationary cost pressures • The burden on the self-funded client base is likely to rise, with the majority of providers achieving private fee increases of 10% or more

OPERATOR SENTIMENT We also interviewed a cross-section of local and regional providers and found that 46% of operators have achieved a reduction in agency usage over the last 12 months, whereas 28% stated agency usage had increased.

Private fee rates increased across all country regions, with 43% of operators reporting a 10% or above increase in private fee rates. Only 9% of respondents reported increases of under 5%, compared with 31% with local authority fees. Additionally, 38% of operators said that their occupancy levels have increased, while 70% stated that it has returned to pre-pandemic levels.

THE FINANCE LANDSCAPE Historically, whilst in low interest rate margins, lenders have applied a higher interest rate or a ‘stressed margin’ to calculate affordability. However, we are now operating in a new stressed rate environment, which has made lenders look in greater detail at a business’s ability to service their current levels of debt, as well as any potential increases.

Results of a survey of local and regional providers conducted by Christie Finance in July 2023, found that 38% of respondents are looking to buy a care business in the next 12 months, 30% of which will seek finance to do so.

When asked about the confidence they have in lenders to support their plans, 46% said they are very confident, 18% said not confident, and 36% remained neutral.

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 CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174 | PAGE 49

PROFESSIONAL, TRAINING & RECRUITMENT Immigration Tightrope: Do You Need Permanent Keeping Care Homes Compliant and Reliable Care Staff?

Rising costs and operational challenges are putting care homes and domiciliary care providers under strain, as they try to comply with Home Office sponsor licence regulations. A growing concern is the disparity between the work hours stated on foreign workers' Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) and the actual hours given, which can adversely affect their visa status. According to Gavin Webster,

Director of Immtell, this issue reflects the sector's broader pressures rather than deliberate neglect.

Non-compliance with CoS terms can lead to severe Home Office sanctions, potentially causing staff to find new sponsorship or leave the UK, and disrupting the provider's services. Inadvertent breaches often result from the sector's tough conditions and confusion over compliance rules.

Webster emphasises the importance of careful navigation of sponsor duties to avoid significant consequences. He suggests that regular audits by immigration consultancies can prevent issues from drawing Home Office attention.

To remain compliant while providing essential services, care providers are advised to seek expert advice. Immtell offers support through info@immtell.com and online at www.immtell.com.

Proper guidance helps balance operational sustainability with legal responsibilities, preserving their vital community role.

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RECRUIT OVERSEAS: For companies with a sponsors license, we can provide the highest calibre English speaking candidates. You can choose to recruit face to face in the Caribbean (in Jamaica or St Lucia for example) or via video call from your own office. We offer free flights and hotels for our clients for all overseas bulk recruitment drives.

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