The Carer Digital - Issue #207

Steep Fall in Overseas Visa Applications Sparks Fears of Care Staff Shortage

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

Editor Peter Adams

The recent 80% drop in the number of overseas applicants for health and care worker visas has caused considerable concern within the care sector

of dementia care in the UK

This Summer has certainly seen a celebration of the (sometimes!) warmer weather in social care settings across the country

Home Office data showing a fall from 35,470 to just 6,564 visas approved from April to June this year is alarming

This sharp decline coincides with the former government s decision to ban international care workers from bringing dependants to the UK a move described as "brutal" and one that has effectively severed a crucial lifeline of overseas staff

This decline could not have come at a worse time for our sector which is already grappling with severe staffing shortages

The situation has been exacerbated by a domestic recruitment crisis with 30 000 fewer positions filled by British nationals this year alone a cumulative drop of 70 000 over the last two years

This has sent alarm bells ringing among care providers who now face the dual challenges of dwindling domestic interest and a choking off of international recruitment

It is admirable that the government wants to prioritize domestic recruitment, but as the old saying goes, "Rome wasn’t built in a day "

Building a robust domestic workforce in the care sector will require a comprehensive training and recruitment program an endeavour that takes time, which is a luxury most care providers do not have

In the interim care must be provided and the burden of under-staffing is falling disproportionately on the existing workforce leading to burnout and driving up staff turnover

The sector is demanding action now yet so far we have seen precious little comment let alone action from the new government

I also noted the recent decision by NICE to withhold NHS approval for the Alzheimer s drug lecanemab despite its approval by the MHRA adds another layer of frustration

The drug which costs around £20 000 per patient per year in the US (there are no estimated costs for its use in the UK so far) has not been deemed value for money

This decision, while unsurprising given the NHS s financial constraints, raises questions about how much this could potentially offset the £35 billion annual cost

From garden fetes and parties that have brought communities together, to outings and visits, the creativity and dedication of care home staff have shone brightly

Residents have been active in their care home's gardens as well, showing the health and social benefits of gardening and spending time outdoors All of these activities have created memories that residents and staff alike will treasure and we're always more than happy to share these wonderful stories with our readers

So a heartfelt thank you to all who have shared these uplifting stories with us

Your dedication and passion are truly inspiring Please do keep them coming we can’t wait to see what other wonderful ideas you have in store as the year progresses!

I can always be contacted at editor@thecareruk com and encourage our readers to sign up for our bi-weekly digital newsletter at www thecareruk com and follow us on social media for all the latest news

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Steep Fall in Overseas Visa Applications Sparks Fears of Care Staff Shortage

Time is “Running Out ” Government Warned

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

The fall has been attributed to a ban on international care workers bringing dependants to the UK which came into effect in April this year under the Conservative government and which has been branded “brutal” and blamed for cutting a lifeline of overseas staff

DOMESTIC RECRUITMENT ISSUES

Other restrictions gradually introduced by the previous government amid pressure to cut the record number of people legally arriving included a drastically increased salary threshold for skilled workers to £29,000 from April and £38 700 by next year

Figures published by Skills for Care earlier this year revealed that there were 131 000 vacancies on any given day with a rate of 8 3% for the social care sector around three times the average for other sectors

That report also revealed that domestic recruitment remains a problem, with the number of posts filled by people with a British nationality having fallen by 30 000 – a drop of 70 000 over the last two years

BRUTAL MEASURES

Mike Padgham Chair of the care provider organisation The Independent Care Group (ICG) said: A fall in the number of overseas staff is the last thing social care needs at the moment as we are struggling to fill shifts as it is The last government’s brutal measures are working and the lifeline of overseas staff to help staff homecare and care and nursing homes has been cut

The question is what do we do now? As we warned at the time no serious measures have been put in place to replace those overseas workers who have played such a key role in helping us to keep delivering care

We desperately need to see the new Government s promised care workforce strategy and with it some funding measures that will help us to properly reward care workers and enable us to recruit at home, otherwise we will be in dire straits

Skills for Care reports that there are 131 000 vacancies in social care – with the availability of overseas staff dwindling we are going to be very very short

“And as we approach winter, when staffing levels in health and social care are always placed under the greatest demand will we be able to cope?

With 1 6m people unable to get the care they need and demand for care growing every day we are struggling to maintain services ”

In December when the former Home Secretary announced restrictions on foreign workers Care England warned about the impact this would have on our sector but these warnings they say were ignored

In May Care England drew attention to the decrease in number of overseas care worker applications with

a reduction of over 50% between October 2023 and April 2024

RUNNING OUT OF TIME

Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England said: “The Government is running out of time to listen While the decision to restrict applicants was made by the previous Government it is incumbent on those now in power to take ownership of their inherited situation They must make the changes needed to ensure the social care sector remains sustainable

“Our dedicated workforce is social care’s biggest asset and without the proper measures in place to draw in domestic recruits the gap left by international recruits will reach an untenable level Adult social care needs a fully funded workforce plan, with boosted pay, terms and conditions, the change for career progression parity of esteem with NHS colleagues Without this our sector risks not having enough staff to deliver the care and support this country’s needs now or in the future ”

REVERSE POLICY

Migrant charity the Work Rights Centre called for the Labour Government to scrap the ban on dependents saying it isolates workers from their families

Its chief executive Dr Dora-Olivia Vicol said: “The ban on migrant care workers bringing dependent family members may have acted as a deterrent to people seeking a career in care in the UK

“This has come at the cost of isolating skilled workers from their families We urge the new Labour Government to reverse this cruel policy decision

The charity also called for more protections for migrant workers amid a welcome “crackdown on unscrupulous employers

Dr Vicol said the current system, which ties a person s immigration status to their employer and can see them lose their visa if an employer has action taken against them is grossly unfair

She added: “Work visas should give migrant workers the freedom to change employers and the ability to report exploitation and access remedy on the same terms as their British colleagues

EXPLOITATION

Earlier this year a report written by former independent chief inspector of borders and immigration David Neal criticised the inappropriateness of the sponsor licensing regime for low-skilled roles saying it had “created a system that invited large numbers of low-skilled workers to this country who are at risk from exploitation

An inspection of the immigration system relating to the social care sector revealed that 275 certificates of sponsorship were granted to a care home “that did not exist” the report added

Figures suggest social care will need to recruit an extra 540 000 care workers to cope with rising demand by 2040

Navigating Legal Responsibilities as A Care Manager Amid Increasing CQC Prosecutions

The role of a care manager holds immense responsibility

From ensuring high-quality care to maintaining compliance with regulatory standards the demands are significant In recent months, there has been an uptick in prosecutions by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) against care providers

This escalation underscores the importance of understanding the legal responsibilities and potential consequences for breaches as well as adhering to best practices

Here Gareth Martin, partner and regulatory expert at leading criminal defence firm Olliers Solicitors (www olliers com) explores potential areas of concern that could result in prosecution a care provider s legal responsibilities and the consequences of breaches while offering advice on best practice

THE ROLE OF THE CQC

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the regulatory body responsible for monitoring and inspecting England s health and social care services Its remit includes care homes dental and GP surgeries NHS Trusts and aesthetic clinics The CQC oversees various elements such as registration, inspection and criminal enforcement

The CQC's power to prosecute stems from several legislative acts most notably the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and the Health and Social Care Act (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014

Within the Acts several critical provisions could lead to criminal investigation and potential prosecution including: Health and Social Care Act 2008

Section 10 – Carrying on regulated activity without registration

Section 33 – Failure to comply with the condition of registration

Section 34 – Carrying on regulated activity while suspended

Section 76 – Disclosure of confidential information

• Section 91 – Offences by bodies corporate (consent connivance neglect) HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE ACT (REGULATED ACTIVITIES) REGULATIONS 2014

These regulations set out various offences that a registered person can commit Notably Regulation 22(2) deals with avoidable harm whether physical or psychological to a service user, which tends to attract significant media attention such as the recent case of sexual assault in Warwickshire

Other common breaches that may result in enforcement action include:

• Regulation 12 – Safe care and treatment

Regulation 13 – Safeguarding service users from abuse and improper treatment

• Regulation 14 – Meeting service users nutritional and hydration needs Regulation 16 – Receiving and acting on complaints – The Warwickshire case also involved the manager receiving complaints about what was happening but failing to take appropriate action to address them

Regulation 17 – Good governance WHEN MIGHT THE CQC PROSECUTE?

The CQC s enforcement policy aims to ensure consistency in prosecution decisions It states that they will consider prosecution where there is evidence of factors such as avoidable harm to a person using a service a care receiver being exposed to a significant risk of harm or a case of theft misuse or misappropriation of money or property

In addition to evidence of the above the CQC will also consider the gravity of the incident whether there has been a disregard for the requirements of a registered person and if there have been repeated or multiple breaches that give rise to significant risk or persistent and significant poor compliance Other factors that come into play include whether the service is breaching fundamental standards of care and whether enforcement sends a broader message to a sector and encourages improvement ALTERNATIVES TO PROSECUTION

Whilst the number of prosecutions may be said to have been creeping slowly up in recent times prosecutions should really be reserved for the most severe cases That is why most prosecuted cases relate to safe care and treatment or lack thereof

There are alternatives to prosecution including a simple caution where the CQC has sufficient evidence to prosecute but decides that considering the limited impact of the alleged offending on service users and the likelihood of achieving improvements by working with the provider and individuals involved this is a proportionate and effective way to address the issues They also have the power to issue financial penalty notices

Of course holding any registered person accountable for breaches of what may best be termed fundamental principles of care is essential Still it is crucial to work with providers where such breaches can be remedied and presented as learning opportunities

BEST PRACTICE FOR CARE MANAGERS

To minimise risk and maintain high standards care managers should consider the following:

1 Be familiar with CQC Fundamental Standards – These set the minimum level of care required

2 Implement and Adhere to Policies and Procedures – Regularly review and update policies especially after adverse incidents

3 Conduct Regular Quality and Compliance Meetings – Ensure preparedness for CQC inspections

4 Invite and Act on Feedback – Engage with service users and their families to continually improve

5 Swiftly Address Complaints – Take immediate action on complaints to prevent escalation

6 Stay Updated on Sector Changes – Keep abreast of trends and regulatory updates

7 Understand Consequences – Ensure all staff are aware of the implications of falling short in care standards

8 Foster a Positive Working Environment – High staff morale improves care and lowers turnover Navigating the legal responsibilities as a care manager is critical especially given the increasing scrutiny and potential for prosecution by the CQC By adhering to best practices and maintaining a proactive approach to compliance care managers can ensure they provide the highest quality of care while mitigating legal risks By prioritising quality care and compliance we can create safer more effective healthcare environments that benefit both providers and service users

Providers Say “Enough Is Enough On Hospital Discharges”

Highview Lodge Care Home Celebrates South

Asian Heritage Month with Cultural Festivities

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO OUR VALUED READERS

Since 2004, we have been delighted to provide you with The Carer free of charge, delivering quality news, industry insights, and expert commentary right to your doorstep However, due to surging postal costs, we must make a change to continue maintaining the high standards you expect from us

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The Unheard Voices. - The Challenges Of Being An Unpaid Carer

Some media sources suggest that there are approximately 8 million unpaid carers in the UK They are rarely supported by the government and there is minimal support from the NHS and local authorities Indeed unpaid carers are saving local authorities and government vast amounts of money that would be deployed into caring for elderly and frail citizens both fiscally and in resources Unpaid carers were often not supported pre-pandemic or during the pandemic Local authorities are financially stretched in the adult care sector, coupled with staffing problems

The Corona 19 virus exacerbated the problem of caring for the elderly in their own homes It forced many people to care for their loved ones due to the fear of having paid carers entering their homes Therefore the choice of having external help was extremely limited The impact that this has had on unpaid carers has been extremely challenging

Alongside many other people during the pandemic unpaid carers became socially isolated Whilst respecting the view of their loved ones to remain in their own home This results in a loss of friends and their social circle and places one in a lonely situation Again there is little opportunity to enjoy socializing When they can get out they may suffer from feelings of anxiety of what is happening to their loved ones when they are not there They will worry if their relative is safe have they fallen? So in fact they cannot really relax fully as there are often underlying worries The social isolation factor of being an unpaid carer can lead to poor mental health and conditions such as constant anxiety depression and panic attacks They may also feel anger and resentment at being forced to become an unpaid carer It may be that they are the sole carer with little help from other members of their family This can have long term and lasting effects

In addition to this the physical impact on a carer can have dramatic effects that has to be also taken into consideration A common scenario maybe that their loved one has fallen and indeed, some people are unaware that they can call paramedics to assist them pick them up or they may not be able to reach a

phone to call So their only option is to do it themselves Carers are at a very high-risk level of potential back injury and chronic pain Often they are not taught correct manual handling procedures Frequent turning if the relative is bed bound or taking them to the toilet all impact a person s physical health This hugely impacts on physical health and a big toll on a carer’s body Again, fatigue has an impact on a carer’s physical and mental health due to 24 hour caring and lack of sleep It has been known for carers to sleep on a couch or a trestle bed in their loved one s bedroom They are constantly on alert for noises or movements If a relative is living with dementia there is always a risk of them getting up in the night and pacing and can be a falls risk Or they may become aggressive and display challenging behavior The carer may be at risk of assault They will also have to get up repeatedly during the night to attend to physical needs

There appears to be little support for unpaid carers and it is only when crisis point has been reached and the carer cannot cope any more that they may have access to help There are long waiting times for an assessment from adult social care and the pandemic has exacerbated this

Financial criteria are also a consideration that needs to be explored It is suggested that the number of carers receiving support by local authorities has decreased by 35% between 2011 and 2017 and it is also estimated that there are 1 2 million unpaid carers spending 50 hours a week oin caring duties It would appear that caring duties increase at night This can lead to a burnt-out carer at the end of their tether feeling as if they are leading chaotic lives and who is caring for them? The likelihood of them getting a break is minimal The impact of financial challenges is also an issue Firstly they may have to reduce their working hours or indeed give up work completely It may be the case that it was a job they loved and have spent years building up their careers This can only be devastating to a person’s self-value There may be reduced income or indeed no income at all coming to them I would suggest that time is also a financial challenge paying for carers if they have them buying food taxis to medical appointments picking up prescriptions hiring or buying specialist medical equipment- the list is endless It paints a very bleak picture whereby unpaid carers are trying to cope unsupported to the best of their ability and at great personal cost The government must recognise the personal sacrifices and contribution that unpaid carers are giving to society

Support by government and local authorities Must be reviewed

Sabco Health and Wellbeing provides a free 30-minute support line specifically for unpaid carers Carers can discuss their concerns and advice and support will be given

The government need to recognize the amazing contribution unpaid carers make and lets face it save huge amounts of money being spent on social care

Residents At Penarth Home Go On Trip

Down Memor y Lane With Classic Car Show

Social Care TV

Social Care TV continue to fly the flag for highest quality online training for Health and Social Care, after unwavering commitment to excellence within the sector for over 25 years

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

Accredited by CPD and endorsed by Skills for Care training with Social Care TV is quality assured comprehensive and relevant

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

Their feature-rich Manager platform has further been enhanced this year with the introduction of several new Manager tools designed to aid with compliance reporting and trainee management Features now available include: Compliance Dashboard with Traffic Light System Downloadable Trainee Matrix Custom Bundles

Groups Bulk Uploads • Bulk Enrolment Onto Custom Bundles

Course Enrolment Notifications

Course Reminders

SCTV regularly release new and updated high-quality courses Previews for all courses can be viewed at: Courses - Social Care TV (www social-care tv/courses/course-details)

To enhance their learners' experience further they have created free comprehensive subject-specific workbooks which were rolled out across all courses this year This unique addition provides excellent value and a fully robust training package

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

• Best Online Health and Social Care Learning Platform’ – Global Health & Pharma Social Care Awards 2024

• ‘CPD Provider of the Year’ – The CPD Awards

Social Care Training Provider of the Year - Corporate Livewire

Innovation & Excellence Awards

Gold standard customer service remains a core staple of the business, with expert support and guidance provided via telephone, email and live chat They place great importance on the training and development of their customer services team to ensure that they continue to provide a personal friendly and knowledgeable service

Their much-loved Care Worker of the Month award recognises and

“Malcolm and

Some of

“The cars would have been very popular when our

were car owners

“They were quite intrigued to see the cars and had huge smiles on their faces

“Doing activities like this helps us to get a better understanding of what our residents like to do

“I think our gents in particular enjoyed the

it

out quite well and it’s something we would definitely be up for doing again

rewards the selfless dedication shown by care workers across the UK and they proudly support the Care Workers Charity who aim to advance the financial professional and mental wellbeing of social care workers

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

The company stands behind a clear mission and set of values which define their ethos and their dedication to both the Care Sector and those within it These can be viewed at: Mission Statement and Core Values - Social Care TV

(www social-care tv/about/mission-statement-and-core-values)

Social Care TV are a responsible business, committed to ensuring that their actions have a positive impact on their employees customers the wider health and social care community and the environment

Above all SCTV consistently strive to make a meaningful contribution to the wellbeing of those being cared for

For more information please see: Homepage - Social Care TV

(www social-care tv) and see advert on page 4

Increase In Reports Of Migrant Care Worker Contract Exploitation

The number of foreign social care workers reporting that they are trapped in exploitative contracts has according from data from the Royal College of Nurses risen sixfold over the last three years According to the data employers are using repayment clauses to demand thousands of pounds from migrant care workers who want to leave their jobs claiming the money is to cover hiring costs according to the Royal College of Nursing (RCN)

In 2021-22 the union received 22 calls from members about repayment clauses; in 2023-24 it heard 134 complaints and cited a reported case of one care worker who suffered severe bullying and harassment but was unable to leave the role due to a £10 000 repayment demand despite no specific figure of repayment figure being included in their original contract

The RCN warned that the figures were the tip of the iceberg since many migrant care workers are not trade union members or may be

too afraid to report their employers

It called on the Government to launch an urgent investigation something the new home secretary promised during the General Election campaign

RCN general secretary and chief executive Nicola Ranger said The exploitation being allowed to spread is deeply inhumane and undermines the entire social care sector

Faced with our evidence ministers were right to commit to an investigation during the election campaign and this must now happen with urgency ’

A government spokesperson said: There has been an unacceptable rise in the recorded abuse and exploitation of care workers in the adult social care sector

The sponsorship system which holds providers to highest standards has highlighted these unethical practices and

Care Home Residents Celebrate 70 Years Together!

A couple from Hyacinth House

Training and Upskilling Funding: Another Scrapped Policy

By Jo Henney, CEO at Nugent (https://wearenugent org)

Training

I

I’m

In

Funding is

enables us to equip our workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to provide compassionate competent and safe care for the millions who need it

While I understand that the current government is dealing with shortfalls inherited from previous regimes and they shouldn t be blamed for trying to put out someone else’s fire this decision is short-sighted leaving those of us in the industry feeling stranded especially without a clear Plan B in sight

Without a concrete strategy and clear funding solutions, the quality of care across the UK will decline, the risk of burnout among care workers will increase, and in years to come, we may not have a functioning care system at all

At Nugent we've seen firsthand how investing in our staff leads to better outcomes for the people we support; I believe that the cost of maintaining a skilled social care workforce pales in comparison to the long-term costs of allowing our social care system to deteriorate I remain hopeful that

Dorset Care Home Sets Tails Wagging With Charity Dog Show

out

The

John said: It was great fun judging the entries and seeing the dogs entertaining everyone with their personalities agility and outfits

“This

“The

As

Ahead

Fair view’s Summer Fete Brings The Local Community Together

Data Reveals Extent Of Healthcare Employment

Crisis: Vacancies And Application Numbers Tumble

The number of people applying for healthcare jobs has nose-dived over the last year far outweighing the fall in vacancies noted over the same period demonstrating the very real challenges hirers face attracting talent That’s according to the latest insights from the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo)

The data revealed that the number of professionals applying for permanent healthcare jobs has fallen by 65% year-on-year and by 49% for contract assignments

APSCo s report also shows a

Hen Party Fun for Ashcombe House

Care Home Residents

Bride Tribe’ Senior carer of the home Mellisia Irwin was shocked as she entered the room to residents singing wellknown song Love and marriage The afternoon was filled with hen party games

such as pin the ring on the finger and staff and residents enjoyed snacks and drinks

Resident of Ashcombe house Joan Howes, said: “I’ve never been on a Hen night before it’s been a huge amount of fun we all wish Mel a fantastic wedding and we are all looking forward to seeing her photos afterwards ” Resident Jose Horton added “ What a wonderful afternoon Mel is going to make a beautiful bride and we all wish her lots of love and luck for her wedding day”

Alzheimer’s Drug, lecanemab

Approved but “Too Costly” for NHS

The UK s medicines regulator the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) – has given the green light for Alzheimer’s drug lecanemab to be sold in Great Britain

However the drug has not been deemed value for money for the NHS

A provisional decision, made by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) means that as things stand people in the early stages of the disease will be denied access to lecanemab through the NHS For the foreseeable future it will only be available to those who can afford its steep price tag in the private sector – which will be prohibitive for many

The MHRA s landmark decision makes lecanemab the first licensed treatment in England Scotland and Wales that can slow down early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, rather than manage people’s symptoms

Alzheimer s Research UK s Chief Executive Hilary Evans-Newton described the news as bittersweet “It’s a remarkable achievement that science is now delivering licensed treatments that can slow down the devastating effects of Alzheimer s rather than just alleviating its symptoms However it s clear our health system isn’t ready to embrace this new wave of Alzheimer’s drugs ” she explained

The MHRA’s decision that lecanemab is safe and effective enough to be granted a license is based on Eisai s CLARITY AD Phase 3 clinical trial results published in November 2022 The trial involved 1 800 patients over an 18-month period The drug was shown to slow participants’ cognitive decline by 27% and slow their decline in quality of life by up to 56%

Experts warned that, like first-generation treatments for other diseases, lecanemab has modest benefits and side effects that need careful monitoring

Lecanemab carries the risk of a potentially serious side effect, known as amyloid related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) These are changes in the brain that can be seen on MRI scans that are linked to swelling or

bleeding

Around one in eight people who received lecanemab during the trial developed ARIA Although most of those people (80%) did not have symptoms However there were three deaths attributed to lecanemab during the trial – just under 0 2% of the total number of participants

Fiona Carragher Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer s Society said: Today s MHRA approval of the first safe and effective Alzheimer s disease treatment shown to slow progression is a defining moment for people with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease in the UK and a significant step towards a more hopeful future

“While we welcome the MHRA approval, it is disappointing that NICE has not recommended approving lecanemab for use on the NHS at this stage The news that lecanemab will be restricted to certain groups of patients will also lead to uncertainty for many people with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones

We respect the decisions regulators have made however we know these announcements will bring a mix of emotions for those who have been waiting a long time since the promising trial results were first announced

The NICE recommendation reflects the urgent challenges which must be addressed regarding how we diagnose and treat people with dementia A third of people affected by dementia have not received a diagnosis and for those who have been diagnosed it s often not early or accurate enough for a person to be eligible for new treatments

A dementia diagnosis not only opens up the potential for treatment It is also the single most effective route to the care, support and information we know is so important for everyone living with dementia and their loved ones

Resident's Wish Comes True with a Family Visit to Anglesey Abbey

"

Immigration Laws Decoded: Impact On Health And Social Care

Health and social care is the underappreciated backbone of our society, providing essential services to vulnerable people and their families across the UK

The industry is also heavily reliant on a diverse and reliable workforce with recent reports finding approximately one in five NHS staff in England are non-UK nationals, and care homes across the country saying they would not be able to cope without the help of non UK national employees

With immigration laws constantly changing and updating care homes can be significantly impacted in their ability to recruit and retain staff

Keeping up to date on the changing rules can be confusing, but with guidance, care home managers and staff can keep up to date and within the law

THE ROLE OF EMPLOYMENT LAW

The interplay of immigration law and employment law is a nuanced one While immigration law dictates an individual s right to work within a country employment law governs the relationship between employers and employees It's crucial to understand the interplay between these two legal frameworks

Employment contracts for instance must adhere to both immigration and employment law stipulations and employers must ensure compliance with minimum wage, working time regulations, and other employment standards particularly when hiring foreign workers

It’s important to also consider that termination of employment whether through dismissal or redundancy may have deeper implications for employees with different immigration statuses Understanding these complexities is essential for care providers to maintain compliance and avoid potential legal issues

THE CHANGING IMMIGRATION LANDSCAPE

Immigration law reforms that came into place in April 2024 have introduced changes that have a significant impact on the health and social care sector These changes include:

The Skilled Worker Route: While primarily aimed at high-skilled occupations this route has implications for

care providers seeking to recruit qualified healthcare professionals

The Health and Care Worker Visa: This visa category was introduced to address the acute shortage of workers in the sector It s essential to grasp the eligibility criteria salary thresholds and the role of the Code of Practice to ensure compliance

• Sponsor Licence System: Amendments to the sponsor licence system such as increased compliance duties and penalties can impact care providers ability to employ foreign workers

Navigating the intricacies of immigration law is a major challenge for care providers, with constant updates to a wide variety of rules and regulations To mitigate risks and ensure compliance organisations must implement clear and defined strategies that are communicated to staff, but also be sure they understand the various routes and laws in place Conducting regular workforce audits implementing thorough right-to-work checks and developing comprehensive immigration policies are essential steps

Seeking expert legal advice from immigration solicitors specialising in the health and social care sector can provide invaluable guidance helping organisations stay informed about the latest regulations and avoid costly penalties

ADAPTING TO THE NEW NORMAL

All businesses need to understand the intricacies of immigration law from visa requirements to right-towork checks and sponsorship obligations This is even more pertinent in sectors like health and social care in which a high percentage of staff may be affected by these rules and where the work they do has such a significant impact on the public

By staying informed about regulatory changes and seeking expert guidance, care providers can mitigate risks and maintain service delivery

Collaborating with industry bodies to influence policy and advocate for the sector's needs is also vital By working together care providers can contribute to shaping a more supportive immigration environment for the healthcare sector

The healthcare sector is increasingly reliant on a diverse workforce However constant changes to immigration regulations present significant challenges for care providers Care home managers need to take a proactive approach to hiring and maintain a thorough process with staff to guarantee they are following the law

Ultimately, a successful immigration strategy involves a delicate balance of attracting talent ensuring compliance and building a resilient workforce

Resident Celebrates 105th Birthday At Longueville Court Care Home

Celebrations have been in full swing at Longueville court care home, as one of its residents reaches her 105th birthday in style

Henrietta Gavaghan was joined by staff, relatives, and other residents as she received a Birthday card from the King in recognition of her landmark birthday

A Party was held at the home Henrietta and her granddaughter enjoyed a special afternoon with entertainment from Leslie Ann who visited Henrietta in her room Henrietta then enjoyed her birthday cake made by the home s chef with her grandson-in-law at tea time where all the staff sang happy birthday

The Birthday girl said I have had such a wonderful afternoon I really

enjoyed the entertainment and all the lovely gifts I’ve got”

Activities Coordinator Karina Dunn said: “Henrietta was singing and clapping along with all the songs, it really was great seeing Henrietta having so much fun I am so happy she enjoyed her day”

Krzysztof Krzysztofiak General Manager of Longueville Court care home added: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable Women as she reaches this amazing milestone Henrietta is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell about her piano playing days and we look forward to hearing many more as

New Dementia Campaign Launched to Raise Awareness and Offer Support

A new campaign to raise awareness of dementia and offer help for those whose lives have been affected by the condition has launched this month

Let s talk Dementia - www letstalkdementia co uk which is organised and funded by Luye Pharma Ltd, offers information about the condition, as well as resources that individuals community groups and carers can access It covers everything from types of dementia and what the symptoms are through to advice on nutrition staying active and guidance for carers

There are currently more than 944 000 people in the UK who have dementia1 and one in three people will care for someone with the condition at some point in their life By 2040 it is estimated that up to 1 7 million people could be living with dementia in England and Wales 3 The launch of Let s talk Dementia comes following a survey with 1 000 people4 carried out by Luye Pharma Ltd which showed there is concern about access to dementia information 57% think there is not enough available while 22% are unsure

Contributing to www letstalkdementia co uk are partners and support groups with expertise in the dementia field They include GP and media medic Dr Rosemary Leonard the movement education

Ashlynn Grange's Musical Project: Bringing Harmony To The Care Home

In a novel upcycling initiative Ashlynn Grange Care Home in Peterborough has introduced a unique project that is striking a chord with its residents The Musical Wall is a creative and engaging venture part of the broader Athena in Bloom series of activities designed to enrich the lives of our residents through meaningful experiences in our garden spaces

The idea for the Musical Project sprang from Ashlynn Grange s dedicated lifestyles team who saw an opportunity to repurpose everyday items into something special

With an emphasis on recycling, they transformed an old wooden pallet into a vibrant musical wall adorned with a variety of instruments crafted from unconventional materials Residents contributed to this project by painting the pallet in bright cheerful colours turning it into a lively and eye-catching addition to the garden

The musical wall features an array of percussion instruments including metal pans bells and even a washboard all ready to be played with wooden spoons or other tools This interactive installation not only serves as a source of fun and entertainment but also promotes sensory engagement and creativity among the residents

Music holds a special place in the lives of many, and its impact is particularly profound in care homes, especially for residents living with dementia The introduction of musical activities such as this latest project at Ashlynn Grange brings numerous benefits enhancing the overall wellbeing of residents

1. COGNITIVE STIMULATION:

Music stimulates the brain and can help to maintain cognitive function For people living with dementia, familiar songs and melodies can evoke memories and emotions often providing comfort and a sense of connection to their past

2. EMOTIONAL WELLBEING:

Music has the power to lift spirits and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression Engaging with music can promote positive emotions helping residents feel more relaxed and content

3 SOCIAL INTERACTION:

Musical activities encourage socialisation whether it’s playing instruments together singing along to a favourite tune, or simply enjoying the rhythms and sounds as a group This fosters a sense of community and belonging among residents

4. PHYSICAL BENEFITS:

Playing musical instruments even simple ones like those on the musical wall, can improve hand-eye coordination and motor skills It also provides a gentle form of physical exercise contributing to overall health

5 CREATIVE EXPRESSION:

Projects like the musical wall offer residents a chance to express themselves creatively, whether through painting the pallet or making music This can be incredibly fulfilling and helps to maintain a sense of identity and personal agency

6. STRESS RELIEF:

Music has been shown to reduce stress levels not just in listeners but also in those actively making music

The rhythmic activity of playing instruments can be soothing and meditative providing a peaceful outlet for emotions

The Musical Wall is not just about making music; it s also about creating a beautiful and engaging environment for the residents The colourful pallet brightens up the garden space, making it a more inviting place to spend time The residents involvement in painting and assembling the wall adds a personal touch to the garden, giving them a sense of pride and ownership over their environment

This project at Ashlynn Grange is a wonderful example of how creativity community and care can come together to enhance the lives of care home residents By integrating music and art into daily life Ashlynn Grange is promoting wellbeing as well as ensuring that our residents continue to enjoy a rich and fulfilling quality of life

Burnley Care Home Celebrates Therapy Dog That

Brings Joy To Residents On International Dog Day

HC-One’s Dove Court Care Home in Burnley, Lancashire are celebrating International Dog Day on Monday August 26 by highlighting the benefits and joy that a special therapy dog brings to residents and colleagues

The HC-One care home is honouring Boris, a therapy dog who frequently visits the home

Dog Boris has been travelling weekly to meet residents at HC-One s Dove Court Care Home which provides residential, nursing and dementia care

Dove Court honoured the special dog that always helps put a smile on residents’ faces by showing their appreciation for Boris who makes an immense difference when visiting residents and colleagues

Resident Steven Molloy, who is registered blind looks forward to his weekly visits from Boris and says they always brighten up this day Another resident living at Dove Court Rita Summerscales enjoys taking Boris on walks and says his visits remind her of when she used to have a dog called Sophie who was a Lhasa Apso breed

Resident Susan Gulaiczuk says she loves seeing animals and loves seeing Boris and receiving cuddles from him Resident Gordon Cligram also likes to give Boris a treat when he comes to see him

International Dog Day was created in 2004 by pet lifestyle expert and author Colleen Paige to bring awareness to the condition of animals as well as to encourage adoption

The awareness day also highlights the importance of helping people take better care of their pets and make more responsible choices when it comes to getting or looking after a dog

Having a pet dog in a care home can offer many benefits to residents including enhancing therapeutic care and providing companionship Residents can also improve their wellbeing by engaging with dogs and they can help facilitate better social interaction

Wellbeing Coordinator at Dove Court Care Home, Nicola Martin, who helps arrange the visits commented: Our residents look forward to their weekly visits from our therapy dog Boris and can’t wait to give him extra cuddles and stroke him

Stephanie Tillotson, Wellbeing Coordinator at Dove Court Care Home stated: It s lovely to see the residents faces light up when they see Boris, he is such a friendly lovable dog who loves to come in and see our residents

Sue Varley –PR and Communications Lead at Athena Care Homes

How to Resolve Key Challenges in Care Home Laundr y Rooms

Former Cricketer Becomes Honorar y

‘12th

Man’ At Weymouth Match

Blueleaf Care is promoting best practice in continence care to help care homes deliver better outcomes for residents and help reduce their environmental impact through the choice of products they purchase During Continence Care Week Blueleaf partnered with global leading continence brand TENA to run Learning Circles for carers across 16 care homes Each of the sessions included discussion on best practice for care home staff with TENA experts explaining the health and sustainability benefits of using the right products for its intended purpose With two out of three people in care homes requiring continence care, best practice can deliver the dual benefit of increasing a resident s quality of life while reducing a care home s environmental impact

In addition to the education sessions Blueleaf and TENA are also marked World Continence Week by hosting a series of Bloom & Grow activity workshops for residents providing sunflower seeds for them to sow in pots for their rooms or around the home These sessions were designed to support the care home’s commitment to provide social activities which are beneficial to residents cognitive function; so too is connecting with nature by handling soil watering and tending flowers Ellen Brown Sales and Marketing Director of Blueleaf Care says encouraging best practice is a priority for

Blueleaf “Well managed continence care improves a resident’s quality of life considerably preventing avoidable accidents which can result in further health complications but it

People Living With Dementia Can Be Powerful Design Collaborators, New Heriot-Watt Research Shows

People living with dementia should have more power and creative freedom in collaborative design projects new research from HeriotWatt University suggests

This includes using their own ideas and actions to shape lead and deliver projects rather than always having projects given to for or with them

Dr Euan Winton a design expert at the University s School of Textiles and Design in Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, has proposed a new framework that outlines this way of working It follows six years of working with members of an Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Resource Centre who designed projects and services including printed textiles ceramics table top gardens, lighting, travel postcards, sculptural signage for a community allotment and a photo scanning service

Collaborative design – shortened to co-design – helps communities and groups contribute to design projects with guidance from professional designers It is a growing field in settings including health community development innovation public sector and charities But there are huge variations in the extent to which participants are involved in these projects, Dr Winton argues His research paper The co-design participatory power pyramid formally defines these different levels of involvement and illustrates them as a pyramid with four layers – ‘to’, ‘for’, ‘with’ and ‘by ‘To’ is at the base of the pyramid and by is at the top

“Good collaborative design is about helping people play a significant role in rethinking things that inform or shape their lives ” Dr Winton says “And really that should mean you ve collaborated on more than 50% of the project Your thoughts your actions your ideas and the content you generate is important and you should have quite a bit of agency in making changes We see a lot of co-design projects being done to, for or with participants But the most empowering model is co-design by – when designs for products or services are generated entirely by people living with dementia It’s about reinforcing the idea that people need to be recognised for what they can do recognised for having rights and that they should be listened to Dr Winton’s maternal and paternal grandmothers both had dementia The mother of research co-author Paul Rodgers Professor of Design Manufacturing and Engineering Management at the University of Strathclyde also had dementia Dr Winton started his research as part of a PhD focused on design for dementia and over six years has worked on collaborative design projects with around 20 members of the Glasgow Dementia Resource Centre which supports people with dementia and is run by Alzheimer Scotland, Scotland s national dementia charity

The participants were aged between their 40s and 60s and diagnosed with early onset dementia when symptoms develop before the age of 65 The research included walking tours and visits to museums and art galleries with people living with dementia to get ideas for designs

One of the very first conversations I had was with a man who said he used to quite like photography but

no one would give him a camera these days,” Dr Winton relates “I replied – that s the first thing I m going to do when we go out walking You re all going to have cameras – and will be collecting the images and things that inspire you

The inclusive approaches which also involved working with a dementia group in Edinburgh generated 15 design projects which are outlined in the research paper Some of the products created were sold in a pop-up shop in Glasgow and the projects overall promoted “self-belief,” “free thinking” and a stronger sense of capability belonging and independence

The products and services that were co-designed by people living with dementia include:

Printed textiles inspired by murals in Glasgow of comedian Billy Connolly

These textiles were turned into products including cushions bags and lampshades

• Ceramic plates with face designs inspired by a ‘floating head’ exhibit at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow

Tabletop gardens inspired by outdoor walks that the participants design and created themselves

A decorative light inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh made with coloured lighting gels

A concrete sign for Bellahouston Park Allotments in Glasgow that was designed by the participants and then crafted by a stone specialist

A photo scanning service to help other people living with dementia revive memories from old photographs

Dr Winton said the participants all took enthusiastic ownership of their projects and “regularly expressed elation with their abilities and a sense of disbelief at what they had achieved They also learned about design practices and took projects in their own direction

The research paper concludes that people living with dementia should be involved as much as possible in as many stages of the design process as possible These stages include background research; developing the product design brief based on customer needs; generating ideas and concepts; developing technical drawings and prototypes and then detailed design incorporating exploration of materials and manufacturing techniques

Dr Winton said the co-design participatory power pyramid could be applied to collaborative design projects in any sector He is bidding for funding to further develop his research and presented his paper in June in Boston United States to the Design Research Society a learned society committed to promoting and developing design research

Heriot-Watt University s School of Textiles and Design is a centre of excellence in design and dates back to 1883, when classes in weaving dyeing and chemistry were introduced to train workers for the local textiles industry

Honorary Graduates include the late British fashion icon Dame Vivienne Westwood

Bingo, Bubbles, and Big Wins: Highview Lodge Hosts Memorable Mecca Bingo Event

Lodge, part of the Runwood Homes group, recently welcomed Mecca Bingo Luton for a lively and engaging bingo event that left everyone in high spirits On the 10th of August residents staff family members and friends gathered together for an afternoon filled with fun games and prizes The event was further enriched

really enjoyed themselves too even more so because we were winners! Family members were equally enthusiastic with one commenting “It was a lot of fun; we re so glad we took part in this event ” The Mecca Bingo event at Highview Lodge was more than just a day of games; it was a vibrant celebration of community and togetherness The shared laughter and excitement underscored the importance of events like these, which bring joy to residents and strengthen the bonds between them, their families and the wider community

Care Show Birmingham Awaits You...

Stop The Clock Initiative Brings Residents And

Our Team Closer At Langdon House Care Home

Langdon House care home in Cambridge has introduced an innovative new initiative called Stop the Clock designed to strengthen the bond between residents and those working at the home, enhancing the overall wellbeing of everyone involved

Launched this week, the “Stop the Clock” programme encourages all team members to set aside dedicated time each week to spend with the residents This initiative reflects the home’s commitment to a holistic whole-home approach to care ensuring that every resident feels valued and engaged Every Thursday at 2 pm the entire care home pauses its usual activities for 15 minutes During this time, all team members from the catering, gardening and maintenance teams to carers admin personnel and the home manager step away from their duties to spend quality time with a resident or a small group of residents

While 15 minutes might seem brief it is enough to make a significant impact Residents can engage in a variety of activities such as singing chatting strolling through the garden playing games or enjoying a mini massage This dedicated time often spent with a member of the team they don’t usually interact with, fosters personal connections and helps residents feel valued and cared for

Project Support Manager Carolann Hinson emphasized the importance of these brief yet impactful moments: Every team member whether they are carers nurses reception staff gardeners or part of the catering team is encouraged to spend 15 minutes with a resident, dedicating a small portion of their day to foster meaningful interactions This could be a chat and a cup of tea a walk in the garden taking part in an

activity together or providing a mini-massage or pamper treatment whatever the resident prefers

“We understand that the little things often have the biggest impact By committing to just 15 minutes our team members are making a significant difference in the lives of our residents "

The Stop the Clock initiative at Langdon House is not just a new routine it's a powerful reminder of the profound impact that simple acts of kindness and connection can have on both residents and our teams

These brief interactions provide several vital benefits:

• Social interaction: For residents without regular visitors, these moments of engagement help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation enhancing their mood and overall well-being

Emotional support: Building relationships through these encounters offers emotional support helping residents feel valued and cared for

• Mental stimulation: Conversations sharing a cup of tea and reminiscing about the past provide mental stimulation helping to maintain cognitive function and mental acuity

• Improved mood: Interaction with others is a powerful mood booster, alleviating feelings of depression and anxiety and replacing them with joy and a sense of connection

Sense of purpose: When residents see that someone is taking the time to be with them, it instils a sense of purpose and importance positively contributing to their self-esteem and happiness

Physical health: Social interaction benefits physical health too, with studies showing it can lead to better outcomes like lower blood pressure and reduced risk of certain conditions

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New Research Reveals ‘Shocking Neglect’

Of Disabled People’s Health In The UK

than a thousand adults with complex disabilities in the UK, reveals four in five (81 per cent) do less than 150 minutes of physical activity a week with more than a third (36 per cent) getting less than 30 minutes The NHS recommends that adults aged 19 to 64 get at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week to help maintain physical and mental health with those doing less than 30 minutes classed as ‘inactive’ The results mean around 1 3 million people with complex disabilities in the UK are not active enough to be healthy

Nearly half (46 per cent) of those quizzed said they wanted to be more active to boost their physical and mental wellbeing but were prevented from doing so due to societal barriers Inaccessible venues and transportation, as well as a lack of skilled staff to support disabled people, were highlighted as significant barriers by nearly a third of respondents More than a quarter (26 per cent) highlighted the lack of information on inclusive sport opportunities

Greg Whyte former Olympian and Professor of Applied Sport and Exercise Science at Liverpool John Moore s University has condemned the findings stating that disabled people s health is being shockingly neglected”

Professor Whyte pointed out being physically active at a level that best suits each person s individual needs and abilities, improves people’s physical, mental, emotional and social health – and can help reduce pressure on the NHS and social care as a result He has called for change

Greg Whyte Professor of Applied Sport and Exercise Science at Liverpool John Moore s University said “The health of people with complex disabilities is being shockingly neglected It’s indefensible that four out of five are not active enough to be healthy and the barriers stopping them like inaccessible exercise venues or a lack of trained coaching staff are completely unacceptable

What we are seeing is quite simply mass disability neglect at a time we are focused on elite disability sport As we’re gearing up for the Paralympics, it would appear that authorities are pretending to care without a strategy to ensure that sport is truly for all

“Simple changes like training staff fitting ramps or improving transport could have a profoundly positive effect on disabled people s physical health and resistance to illnesses like heart disease cancer diabetes and stroke There are huge mental, emotional and social health benefits too, leading to improved quality of life

“And by reducing pressure and costs to the NHS and social care, the whole of society will benefit ” Alissa Ayling Head of Sense Active the

That so many people are getting less exercise than they need to be

Care Home’s Flower Power Raises £700 For Charity Through NGS Open Days

Hair Salon at St George’s Court Gets a Modern Make-Over

Sona raises £22m to help large Social Care organisations access AI-driven WFM

We are excited to announce this new round of investment and how it will impact large Social Care organisations and their employees

Together with my fellow co-founders, Oli Johnson and Ben Dixon, we’d like to thank Felicis who led the financing with participation from Northzone, Google s AI-fund Gradient, SpeedInvest, Antler, BAG Ventures, and the numerous notable angels who participated in the round

When we founded Sona in 2021, we wanted to solve the unique challenges of frontline work with technology that empowers every employee, on every level of a large organisation

Two years later, Sona is doing just that for over 100,000 people We are grateful to the many organisations who have chosen us to support them on their digital journey, including Community Integrated Care, iVolve, Affinity, Yorkshire Care, Greensleeves Care, Cartrefi Cymru, and Livability, helping them deliver almost 5 million seamless shifts We’d also like to thank our partners who share in our vision for an integrated tech landscape for Care, including Nourish, Radar Healthcare, and Lottie

Some of the most talented and motivated people around have joined us to make this possible, and I d like to give a particular shout-out to Hayley Horwood and Richard Upshall Together, they have more than 25 years of experience in the Care sector and their insights have guided us every step of the way

This deep involvement has taught us that the complexity associated with multi-location, 1000+ staff operations is coupled with the pressure and responsibility to provide the best care possible Social Care demands a state-ofthe-art solution, built with the kind of technology that isn’t just the latest right now, but that is flexible enough to continue being state-of-the-art ten years from now and later into the future

The financing is a big step on our journey to becoming the go-to WFM for large Social Care groups, but - more importantly - it is an investment in the sector as a whole

Over the past year, we ve seen demand for a nextgeneration solution like Sona increase fourfold Our

partners are looking to make their operations more efficient and reliable, improve staff satisfaction, and become financially sustainable organisations that can easily grow and support more people

The fact that we can confidently say Sona is a solution that pays for itself - and then more! - is something we’re incredibly proud of because it provides organisations with a new revenue source they can re-invest into employee wellbeing and a better experience for the people they care for

So, what does this mean for the Care sector?

1. A truly intelligent AI-driven solution

We want to empower Social Care enterprises to forecast their staff needs based on what is best for the people they support with maximum accuracy and automatically tailor their operations accordingly This will help organisations speed up their scheduling, gain real-time views of their shift runs, and encourage growth in a way that tech simply hasn’t in the last decade Previously, the focus was mostly on digitising paper-based processes, but as many organisations are now starting a vendor-replacement cycle, we want to provide them with a real nextgeneration solution

2 Automated HR processes

Our HR solution is already closely linked to Scheduling and communicates seamlessly as solutions built to work together from day one should The next step is to bring automation to the HR processes that currently take up the most time and are heavily prone to errors Our goal is to make the data we feed into our Payroll engine as accurate as possible and remove the potential for mistakes to snowball, leading to drops in employee satisfaction, more admin time, and even legal risks down the line

3. User-first technology

One implementation challenge organisations have experienced with legacy software is low tech adoption rates from frontline staff But what oftentimes is seen as fear of change, is actually a natural reaction to employee apps which were not designed to be accessible The Sona mobile app - together with all our interfaces - is built with usability in mind and consumer-grade standards We want to enrich this experience with even more features that make user life more efficient and increase satisfaction, particularly around self-service and onboarding new staff We believe the first impression new employees get of their organisation and its processes is key to their retention

4 High-quality research and contributions to Social Care in the UK

The feedback we’ve received for our industry-leading reports, webinars, and other research activities has always been incredible and we re only looking to add more Social Care is first and foremost about the people and the community We plan to continue reporting on the pulse of the sector, bring together leaders and visionaries to share their insights, and always spotlight the many opportunities Care offers At the same time, we want to expand our existing charitable contributions and make sure that we’re always giving back to those on the frontline

committed our Customer Success and Implementation teams are to always going the extra mile, helping them optimise and grow their business We want to make sure that as we grow ourselves, we only improve this experience and provide even more comprehensive support every step of the way For that we’ll be on the lookout for the best talent available

Overall, with Sona, I like to think of it as building the “selfdriving car of running a Care business The last 20 years of workforce management were dominated by legacy point solutions that digitised simple paper processes Sona is building the next generation of WFM with a truly intelligent platform that enables organisational leaders in complex, multi-location enterprises to put the right people, in the right place, at the right time; and to seamlessly manage their workforce end-to-end

We believe we can deliver this because our exponential growth has been driven by tangible factors: speed of product delivery, high configurability, and sector expertise

Unlike legacy platforms, Sona’s technology has been built from the ground up for real-time data processing and insights Leveraging the Elixir programming language and large language models - similar to what powers tools like ChatGPT - we offer AI-powered real-time actionable feedback which helps drive intelligent decision making and leads to real workforce productivity gains The trust of our investors so far has yielded a total of £30 millionfunds that we see contributing to the development of the sector as a whole

“We are proud to lead Sona's Series A round and support its mission to empower frontline enterprises with cuttingedge workforce management solutions We believe in Sona s potential to redefine how businesses [ ] manage their workforce, and we re excited to be part of their journey towards reshaping the future of work Ben, Oli, Steffen and the Sona team have already helped over 100,000 frontline workers schedule shifts, and we know so many more will appreciate smarter software that enables their work ”

Niki Pezeshki, General Partner at Felicis

As we continue to innovate, our mission remains clear: to transform the outdated tools that have hindered Care enterprises in the past and usher in a new era of intelligent WFM that drives efficiency, employee wellbeing, and, ultimately, the delivery of exceptional care

Steffen Wulff Petersen Sona CEO and Co-Founder

5. A trustworthy partnership for all our UK customers

Our partners have consistently highlighted how

Sona co-founders Ben Dixon Steffen Wulff Petersen and Oli Johnson

A Snapshot In Compassion: Carers

Care workers in Yeovil were captured in their element, showcasing their dedication and compassion to the job as part of a portrait photography project

Photographed while at work at Chestnut Lodge run by care provider Camelot Care the prints aim to shine a light on what are often seen as the unsung heroes of the social care system

The project the brainchild of filmmaker and photographer Daisy Moseley, seeks to acknowledge and salute the hard work and commitment of the country’s more than 10 million carers

To capture the essence of caregiving Daisy 35 visited dementia specialist Camelot Care s four homes in the region, photographing the lives of care workers at their workplace

“I was inspired through helping my mother provide end of life care for my late grandmother and saw just how much work goes into it,” said Daisy

It made me realise how vital and demanding the role of a carer truly is Caring for someone can be a beautiful thing but it s also physically and emotionally draining

I want to document the incredible work of these individuals and share their stories and raise awareness to a wider audience "

Daisy who grew up in the West Country believes the role of caregivers is undervalued in society

"It feels like no one noticed the work they did until covid hit some at the cost of their own lives and their vital work behind the scenes

“One minute we were all on our doorsteps clapping them the next it feels as though we forgot all about them again as though nothing had ever happened ”

Daisy who is a freelance art director for commercials and a set director shot the photographs in both colour and in black and white

I spent quite a lot of time with each person talking with them about their job why they became a carer and what the work means to them

It was touching to see how much they care for the people they look after, the different relationships they have with the residents and how it s different for each one of them

“The carers that I met were from all different walks of life – some who had been in the profession for 20 years, others who were just coming into the sector

Each one I met had a unique story about how they came to be there – some inspired by personal experiences others wanting to make a meaningful impact in their communities

Carers are the unsung heroes of our society

Through this project I want to ensure their efforts are recognized and valued "

Daisy visited Camelot Care homes in Yeovil Bridgwater, and Wellington

She is hoping to get art funding to stage an exhibition of the photographs and create a book as a lasting tribute to carers and the work they do

Paul Teasdale director of Camelot Care expressed his support for Daisy

"We are delighted that Daisy is highlighting the crucial role of care workers Her photographs beautifully capture the dedication and empathy our staff bring to their work every day

Elm Bank Care Home Resident

Becomes ‘Resident Head Gardner’

"We are delighted that Daisy is highlighting the role of care workers Her photographs beautifully

Life’s A Picnic At Melbourn Springs

and abilities

Football Comes Home For Hilton Park Resident

More Staffing And Patient Care Cuts Likely Unless Government Addresses Growing NHS Deficit

The government must use its autumn budget to tackle the NHS mounting financial crisis or risk health leaders having to make further service and staffing cuts and there not being enough capacity in place to manage winter pressures

The NHS Confederation is urging Chancellor to use her first budget on 30 October to plug the health service’s £2 2 billion deficit – a funding gap that is likely to widen when the extra unplanned costs of GP collective action (estimated to be £570m) and higher than planned pay rises are factored in

This deficit comes while the health service continues to face record demand against a revenue settlement that was almost flat in real terms meaning leaders are having to make tough choices about what services and staff they can afford

NHS leaders need to see a chunk of any new funding provided immediately so that health systems can prepare for what will be another very difficult winter This should include investment to boost staff and capacity in social care to support urgent and emergency care services

In a new survey nearly nine in 10 local health system leaders (87%) told the NHS Confederation they will not be able to meet their ambitions within their current budgets Thirty-one out of England’s 42 integrated health systems have a deficit plan for the year Without additional funding NHS leaders fear they will face yet more impossible choices between balancing their books and cutting services and staffing posts while not being able to secure the extra capacity they need to respond to patient demand this winter

Matthew Taylor chief executive of the NHS Confederation warned that this winter will be a crucial first test for the government to make sure the NHS does not become overwhelmed He said: “We have welcomed the new government’s focus on improving health and care services and believe it shares the same long-term goals as NHS Leaders We understand the very difficult economic circumstances they have inherited and the perilous state of the public finances

But as winter looms and the NHS reports a growing financial black hole the Chancellor needs to take urgent action ahead of the autumn budget to ensure NHS leaders are not forced into a position of having to cut more staff and patient care to balance their books

We re already looking at a £2 2bn deficit for the year but that was before the extra costs of GP collective action the likely cost of settling the pay dispute with junior doctors and the extra costs of the latest pay awards for nurses and other agenda for change staff The vast majority of these costs were either not planned or cost much more than was budgeted for at the start of the year

“With a revenue settlement for this year that was almost flat in real terms we have no doubt that had the Conservative Government been re-elected they would have had to inject more money ahead of winter as they had to on several other occasions

Winter will be the first big test for the new government s management of the health service Far better for the government to get ahead of what’s inevitable by giving the NHS the funding certainty it needs going into winter so that posts can be saved and extra capacity be lined up In the past we have seen governments come to this conclusion and provide extra funding but too late in the year for it to have an impact The new government must avoid that this year

As the NAO and others have said the

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A Sunlit Stroll with Memories in Bloom

reminiscing about how their love story began and we were fortunate to have great weather for the outing

OSJCT Employees Honoured with Medals of Merit Presentation

The Order of Malta awarded Bronze Medals of Merit to 24 employees and volunteer from The Order of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) in a special ceremony this summer, in recognition of their exemplary service to social care This prestigious accolade highlights the dedication and exceptional support these individuals have

The following employees and volunteer received their

Medals of Merit from H E The Grand Prior of England

Rumney and H E The President of the British Association, Lady Celestria Hales at a mass and investiture held on St John s Day at The Brompton

Fern the Sausage Dog Steals The Show At The Oaks Care Home’s Summer Fete

Empowering Carers Through Technology

The job of a care worker though immensely rewarding is not without its challenges A growing demand for social care has seen carers placed under greater strain with a mounting workload and limited resources

Increasingly carers are also exposed to abusive and even violent behaviour from service users and their relatives Be it deliberate or as often the case unintentional Such aggression can leave a profound mark on diligent and dedicated care staff

The solution to many a modern-day problem is often tech and so too is this the case when dealing with today’s care landscape STAFF ALARM SYSTEMS

Tech has proven to be a friend to the care worker, automating administrative tasks enhancing reporting and in the case of staff alarm systems, protecting them from potential harm

What was originally a bell to alert colleagues to the need for assistance has become far more sophisticated The modern safety alarm is discreet can be easily attached – if not part of – the wearer s uniform It is supremely efficient and designed with the accuracy to pinpoint the exact location of an active call in a ward of over 80 rooms

With the press of a button carers have immediate access to a team of responders

vene to de-escalate

cover, and - where needed -

staff confidence that the highest quality of care can be delivered and confidence in their safety in the workplace For overwhelmed care workers, the ability to summon help with the press of a button is incredibly empowering Be it calling lunchtime cover on a 1-to-1 patient or requesting urgent assistance with an abusive resident the alarm offers staff a greater deal of control assurance and resources while at work HOW DOES IT WORK?

In Pinpoint’s case an integrated staff safety system ensures full site security When activated a personal staff alarm emits infrared signals to receiver units installed throughout the building These in turn send vital information to display units and devices, such as pagers, and desktops detailing the exact location and type of call – assistance or emergency

Within 85 milliseconds of triggering an alarm colleagues are informed that an incident is taking place and, crucially, exactly where it is in the building

The application of infrared technology to provide precise reliable and efficient data is critical here Rather than rely on WIFI-dependant systems - which are prone to interference and inconsistency –Pinpoint s infrared systems deliver an accurate, consistent service that care workers can trust And for a growing care home population such

precision and dependability have never been more important

SUPPORTING THE WORKFORCE

The presence of high-performance alarm systems in care home settings has proven invaluable to workers

With increasing demands being placed on care workers due to a growing care home population and staff shortages the ability to quickly summon additional assistance is crucial to their sense of wellbeing and security

For staff in St Brigid s Hospital in Galway, the installation of Pinpoint’s staff alarm system provided reassurance that help was only a buttonpress away Maria Donnellan, a Clinical Nurse Manager on the ward, said If a resident becomes abusive toward a member of the team or if a patient is choking, staff can quickly call for support and know it will soon be on its way As a result staff report higher levels of job satisfaction and reduced stress caused by the threat of violence

As the care home environment evolves so too have alarm systems

Far from the traditional bell caller of old the modern alarm is a wireless integrated system that ensures a precise and efficient response

A testament to innovation the contemporary staff alarm system is a tool to empower care staff in what can be a challenging setting By enabling immediate response to emergencies promoting a safe environment enhancing communication building confidence encouraging accountability facilitating regulatory compliance and providing peace of mind staff alarm systems are essential for modern care environments pinpoint ltd uk

Those Suffering With Dementia And The Frail Report Worse Hospital Experiences

People who are frail or who live with dementia Alzheimer s or a condition affecting their mobility all report poorer than average experiences in hospital according to a newly published CQC report

Responses to the 2023 survey show that people admitted for emergency care those who were considered frail and those with Dementia Alzheimer’s or a condition affecting their mobility all reported poorer than average experiences for most questions analysed

In contrast older people people who were in hospital for an elective admission and those who stayed in hospital for only one night were generally more positive about their care

The results of the latest annual survey of hospital inpatients) show patient satisfaction levels are largely unchanged since 2022 but remain signifzcantly worse than pre-pandemic

They also highlight continued frustration with waiting times and an increase in the number who felt their health worsened while waiting to be admitted for elective care

The 2023 adult inpatient survey captures the views and experience of more than 63 500 people who stayed in one of 131 acute and specialist NHS trusts in England for at least one night during November last year It has been carried out annually since 2002 and is the longest running survey in CQC s NHS Patient Survey Programme (NPSP)

The survey asked people to give their opinions on the care they received including quality of information and communication with staff, whether they were given enough privacy, the amount of support given to help them eat and drink and on their discharge arrangements

Results covering waiting times have continued to decline Forty-two per cent of respondents who were in hospital for elective care in 2023 said they would have like to have been admitted sooner (compared to 39% who said this in 2022)

Additionally 43% said their health deteriorated while waiting to be admitted (up from 41% in 2022) Of those who reported a decline in their condition a quarter (25%) said it got a bit worse and just under a fifth (18%) said it got ‘much worse

Seventy per cent of respondents reported always getting help to wash or keep themselves clean (unchanged from 2022 but still down from 75% in 2020) And the proportion of people who needed help from staff to eat their meals that said they ‘always’ got that help fell slightly from 65% in 2022 to 64% in 2023 – and remains significantly lower than in 2020 when it was 69%

People s experience of being discharged from hospital also remained poor Only 33% of respondents said they were involved a great deal in decisions about their discharge – a notable drop from the 37% who said this in 2022 Less than half (44%) said they ‘definitely’ knew what would happen next in their care after leav-

ing hospital (down from 45% in 2022) and fewer people said that staff discussed the need for further support from health and social care services with them before they were discharged (77% in 2023 compared to 79% in 2022 and 81% in 2020)

However the majority of respondents were still positive about their interactions with doctors and nurses – as has been the case in previous years Most people surveyed (75%) said they always felt included by doctors in conversations about their care (up from 74% in 2022) and over four fifths (82%) felt they were ‘always’ treated with dignity and respect by hospital staff (unchanged from 2022)

More than three-quarters of respondents (78%) said that they were given the right amount of information about their care and treatment and a large majority (90%) felt they were able to talk to hospital staff about their worries and fears (59% always and 31% sometimes )

Furthermore satisfaction with staffing levels showed some slight improvement in 2023

Fifty-six per cent felt there were always enough nurses on duty to care for them in hospital – an increase on the 52% who said this in 2022, although still lower than in 2020 (62%) And 63% of respondents said that they were always able to get a member of staff to help when they needed attention an increase from 2022 (62%), although remaining 3 percentage points lower than 2020

Despite the limited change in a number of question areas when asked to rate their overall inpatient experience just over half (51%) gave a score of nine or higher out of ten – compared to 50% in 2022

Nicola Wise CQC s Director of Secondary and Specialist Healthcare said It s disappointing that we haven t seen more improvement in patient experience since the last time the survey was carried out Overall satisfaction rates remain far lower than they were pre-Covid with delays in accessing care and poorly coordinated discharge from hospital both clear factors impacting on the quality of people s hospital stay

“It’s also concerning that we’ve seen an increase in the number of people who feel their health deteriorated while they waited for elective care – further evidence that the current imbalance between patient demand and treatment capacity is putting people at risk

What is encouraging is that the majority of people surveyed continue to report positively about their interactions with staff – we know that staff and leaders are doing all they can to minimise delays manage the flow of patients from admission through to discharge and provide compassionate person-centred care ”

But as pressures persist ensuring the best possible experience throughout the entirety of the patient journey is a task that needs input from all parts of the health and care system

It also needs to be supported by continued efforts to address staff shortages improve retention of our highly skilled workforce and ensure recognition of the commitment and dedication from frontline staff ”

Calm Outdoor Space for Locals Living with Dementia

Staff and residents at a Taunton dementia care home who have been busy creating a tranquil and productive garden are now offering to share it with other local people living with or caring for someone with dementia at a free new dementia café they have set up

Abbie Foster, manager of The Rectory care home on Trinity Road said: Gardening is a wonderful activity to do with people living with dementia

Being outside in nature is calming with lots of sensory rewards from the feel and smell of the plants and soil on your hands and it s so lovely seeing our residents engaged in planting weeding deadheading watering or just having a cuppa and watching other people at work

Our garden is looking so beautiful that we want to share it and – weather permitting - have started using it as a setting for our recently-established dementia café

The café which is free to attend and aimed at anyone living with or caring for someone with dementia will be running from 10 30am -12 30pm every Wednesday until 25 September

Visitors are offered a supportive and friendly environment where they can relax make new friends and – if they so wish – have a chat with Abbie her colleagues and each other about the support available and strategies that can make it easier to live with the challenges of dementia

Any local people either living with dementia or affected by its impact on a loved one are welcome to

drop by for coffee, tea or a soft drink, a slice of cake and a ‘listening ear

Abbie Foster said: “As well as the memory café people can also find out more about how to plan a dementia-friendly day at The Rectory s summer fete on Saturday 31 August

“This will run from 11am to 3pm and is always an event with lots of fun activities - a lovely opportunity to engage with the local community ”

The Rectory is a specialised dementia care home with capacity for up to 25 residents, located near Taunton town centre, where gardening forms part of a varied activities programme available to residents

It is one of three homes run by White Care Group the other two being St Benedict s in Glastonbury and St Cecilia in Shepton Mallet

Staff and residents at The Rectory have been growing vegetables and flowers in raised beds and have already harvested strawberries various herbs summer carrots lettuce and plums

Gardening is recommended by Alzheimer’s Society as an activity that can increase the wellbeing of a person with dementia by giving them a sense of accomplishment and connection with others stimulating their senses and memories delivering benefits from physical activity and that being in nature has a calming effect and can induce feelings of positivity

Beaufort Grange's Summer Bash Brings The Local Community Together

Staff residents, relatives and the local community came together

Orchard Care Homes’ CEO Hayden Knight

Takes Key Policy Board Role At Care England

Avocet Court Is A Finalist In Three Categories At Suffolk Care Awards 2024

Avocet Court one of the Athena family of care homes has been shortlisted as a finalist in three prestigious categories at the Suffolk Care Awards 2024 The Suffolk Care Awards hosted by Care Development East is a highly anticipated annual event that celebrates the exceptional work of social care providers across Suffolk Now in its seventh year the awards continue to shine a spotlight on the teams who deliver the highest standards of care daily Avocet Court has been named a finalist in the following categories

1 END OF LIFE CARE

This category is a testament to Avocet Court s compassionate and holistic approach to end-of-life care The team at Avocet Court has gone above and beyond in providing exceptional support not only to their residents but also to the residents’ families and the dedicated team who care for them This recognition reflects the deep empathy and commitment shown by the team in making the final stages of life as comfortable and dignified as possible for all involved

2 ENVIRONMENTAL INNOVATION

In a category newly introduced this year, Avocet Court has been shortlisted for its innovative efforts in addressing environmental challenges within the care setting The team s

proactive approach to reducing pollution conserving resources and mitigating environmental impacts is helping to set a new standard for sustainability in the care sector This nomination highlights Avocet Court s leadership in integrating environmental responsibility into their daily operations, ensuring a healthier future for both the residents and the planet

3 HEALTH & WELLBEING

Avocet Court s commitment to the health and wellbeing of both its residents and staff has earned it a finalist position in this category The nomination acknowledges the home s dedication to creating a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes the physical and mental health of everyone within the care home From tailored wellness programmes for residents to initiatives that support the wellbeing of the team, Avocet Court continues to demonstrate that caring for those who care for others is just as important as the care provided to residents

A spokesperson said: The team at Avocet Court and the Athena Care Homes family are honoured by this recognition and look forward to the awards ceremony which takes place on September 26th Here s to celebrating the outstanding achievements of Avocet Court and all the finalists at the Suffolk Care Awards 2024 ”

Community Integrated Care Shortlisted In Annual Charity Times Awards

Community Integrated Care one of the UK s largest social care charities, has been shortlisted for a prestigious accolade at the 25th annual Charity Times Awards

The charity has been shortlisted for The Charity Times’ Digital Transformation of the Year Award which recognises charities that are able to evidence they have undergone an overhaul of their digital operations to create greater efficiencies across the organisation

In 2022 Community Integrated Care launched a bold new organisational strategy–Best Lives Possible–which underpins every project and initiative undertaken by the charity The aim of the strategy is in its name; to ensure the people the charity supports and the people who support them can live happy full lives From creating smart on-call systems that enable greater work-life balance for colleagues to promoting digital inclusion and accessibility for the people they support–Community Integrated Care is committed to

embracing digital transformation in creative and strategic ways that improves both the charity’s processes and more importantly transform people s lives

Chief Operating Officer, Karen Sheridan, commented: We re proud to be amongst the finalists for the Digital Transformation of the Year accolade

To be recognised for our charity s work in Technology Enabled Care implementing digital solutions to improve the work lives of our colleagues and our efforts to promote digital inclusion amongst the people we support through our partnership work with technology experts Okta is a great achievement

“None of this would be possible without the dedication of our 6 000 colleagues and we are extremely proud of all they have achieved in order to provide better care for the people we support We are shortlisted alongside some amazing charities and we wish everyone the best of luck

Local Care Home Gives Back To Vital Charities After Summer Fundraiser

sense of identity, with the classes reducing isolation increasing confidence and allowing individuals living with dementia to connect with others A fantastic £1 100 was raised by Greenan Manor through traditional summer fete activities including a raffle bottle roulette face-painting and home baking stalls as well as craft stalls selling crafts handmade by residents Entertainment on the day was provided by Ayrshire Ukulele Clan, who kindly donated their fee to the fund Greenan Manor care home manager, Elaine Hughes, said: “Opening Greenan Manor to the local community for events such as the Summer Fete provides us with an opportunity to nurture relationships with others in the area and raise funds for meaningful organisations The services provided by Canine Concern Scotland Trust and Dementia Arts Trust are vital to many families in Scotland but we chose them because both are particularly special to many of our residents Both charities bring a lot of happiness to Greenan

Celebrates 65th Wedding Anniversar

They

Derek

Speaking after the visit Derek said: We

at a

club run by the Methodist Central Hall in Coventry

To begin with we dated just a couple of times a week but this soon became nearly every night as we both realised that something special was happening “ It wasn’t long before I realised that Jill was the girl I wanted to spend the rest of my

“We were married a year later on 15 August 1959 at the Methodist Central Hall

“On 2 July 1968 our son Nick was born, and our happiness was complete and over the years we had many good holidays both in this country and abroad

“About six years ago I started to notice changes in Jill’s behaviour and personality

Between April and August 2022 she was in and out of hospital four times following various falls and seizures

I realised then that I could no longer cope with caring for Jill at home – after all we were both 85 years old by then

Jill was referred to Abbey Park and moved in on 6 September 2022

“It took her a while to settle in but soon she became happy there and I know she s safe and being extremely well cared for which is a weight off my mind I m always made welcome and the carers nurses and other staff members have become my friends Jill likes to get involved as much as she can in the wide range of activities organised every week and particularly likes music therapy

“It makes me feel as though I’m giving a small something back in thanks for the truly loving care that Jill receives at Abbey Park; I feel that in

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A museum-led dementia awareness programme House of Memories, is marking 10 years since its memory activity app launched at the House of Commons

The free My House of Memories app co-created with people living with dementia, was launched two years after the creation of the wider House of Memories programme, which is led by National Museums Liverpool The aim of the app is to develop connections and conversations between people living with dementia and their families and carers through digital collections of objects Together, people can explore pictures of museum objects and everyday items – which range from a Singer sewing machine to a 10 shilling note – and discover things which resonate with them Images are brought to life with sound music and descriptions which can help to spark memories of days gone by Users can also save favourite objects to a digital memory tree, digital memory box or timeline and add their own photographs to the ‘My Memories’ feature on the app

with people living with dementia as well as families and friends, House of Memories also provides online and in-person training where you can learn how to use the My House of Memories app and hear about other dementia activities and resources The in-person training takes place in Liverpool every month, while online training –made up of 31 expert videos across four modules –can be completed at any time

The House of Memories team also offer bespoke dementia awareness and app training to organisations which work with or support people living with dementia from the likes of residential and nursing homes to housing associations and groups offering support services

The My House of Memories app is available to download for free on iOS devices via the App Store and on Google Play for Android devices Information about in-person online and bespoke training is available on the House of Memories website

As you get older your penis and testicles may get slightly smaller One reason is the build-up of fatty deposits in your arteries reducing blood flow to your penis This can cause withering of the tissue cells in the spongy tubes of erectile tissue inside your penis making it awkward to stand at urinal to urinate – but having incontinence on top of this can make matters very difficult to manage

Incontinence:

Over the last decade objects on the app have been interacted with more than a million times In order to support professional carers working

Find out more about the House of Memories programme on their website at www liverpool museums org uk/house-of-memories

If you suffer from Penile Retraction and Incontinence – Men’s Liberty has you covered: Men’s Liberty is the discreet dignified dependable alternative for urinary incontinence that you have been looking for It is made of a gentle, skinfriendly material called hydrocolloid a proprietary adhesive that softly stretches and moves with a man as he changes position Unlike diapers that

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CLEANING AND HYGIENE

The Power of Dr y Steam Cleaning

Dry Steam cleaning fights the battle against bacteria and viruses on three fronts with thermal and chemical disinfection and decontamination by mechanical action of surface penetration and extraction to eliminate contaminants The innovative design and cutting-edge dry steam technology can help tackle the risks of transmissions both inside healthcare settings and outside where you need to offer the safest and cleanest environments

Dry Steam penetrates common surfaces that are porous – like unvarnished wood and/or have non-smooth textured and rough surfaces that harbour and hide biofilm and soil Where manual cleaning isn’t possible, the Dry Steam Vapour reaches those areas and delivers a hygienic environment and peace of mind that it s free from risks of infection Scientific studies by OSPREYDDEEPCLEAN TNO and UCLH -

University College London Hospital-, focusing on the efficacy and removal of all biofilms and microbiological decontamination demonstrated that Dry Steam Vapour performed equal to or better than other disinfection practices While the use of water and an approved detergent provides an environmentally friendly and effective alternative to more toxic disinfectants

Dry Steam is also ideally suited to be combined with Microfibre cleaning regimes and SteamMops are available as optional accessories

Further Laboratory evaluations using OspreyDeepclean steam cleaning/sanitising machines establish the destruction of hospital infection strains - including the antibiotic resistant superbugs MRSA and VRE - in less than 2 seconds

Angloplas Dispensers Help Reduce the Risk of Cross Infection

Angloplas are a UK manufacturer who specialise in producing dispensers for the health and hygiene industry Although these are designed to keep the workplace tidy and uncluttered they are, more importantly built knowing the control of healthcareassociated infections (HCAIs) are a priority for healthcare providers and who are employing a combination of infection prevention and control strategies including hand hygiene cleaning training and the adoption of new technologies to tackle the problem As a result, a wide range of infection control products and technologies are emerging on the market including antimicrobial technology Angloplas’ range of dispensers are produced in the

world s first proven Antimicrobial PVC with silver ion technology and which is exclusive to Angloplas This helps reduce the risk of cross infection by stopping the growth of bacteria and mould and works continuously for the lifetime of the product reducing levels of bacteria such as MRSA E Coli, Legionella Salmonella and mould by up to 99 99% For non-clinical environments Angloplas has recently launched its new Budget Range of products which are made to the same exacting standards as the antimicrobial protected ones but with lower price tags You can order Angloplas products directly from its website by going to www angloplas co uk

The First Menu Planning and Food Ser vice Guideline for Care Homes for Older Adults Launches

A new set of menu planning and food service guidelines for care homes catering to older people has been launched

The Food Services Specialist Group and Older People Specialist Group of the British Dietetic Association (BDA) and the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) have worked in collaboration to launch these guidelines under the title Care Home Digest

The Care Home Digest is the first of its kind providing menu planning and food service guidelines to support care homes to provide high quality food and drink services for residents

No such resource currently exists in England and this document should complement existing dietetic guidelines available in the other nations of the UK

The overall food and dining experience can have a huge impact on quality of life for residents and is often one of the highlights of the daily routine Undernutrition dehydration and other nutrition related health concerns which often impact those living in care or residential homes mean that providing appropriate and appetising meals that meet nutritional requirements can be more challenging

With many care homes unable to access a food service dietitian service the Care Home Digest allows homes to access the information to support them to plan nutritionally balanced and appropriate menus to meet both the nutritional needs and preferences of their residents

By having a clear set of standards and guidance that provides consistency and clarity in the approach for eating and drinking in care homes managers nurses care and support staff and caterers will better understand what they should be providing as part of their overall food service

Helen Ream Healthcare and Food Service Dietitian at Compass Group UK & Ireland and Vice-Chair of the BDA’s Food Services Specialist Group says,

It has been a privilege to chair the working group of dietitians and NACC colleagues to develop these guidelines I hope they will be the ‘go to’ resource for care home teams to support them to understand what their food services and menus should include to support residents to have a great mealtime experience whilst also meeting their nutritional needs

Mealtimes play an essential role in the wellbeing of some residents They allow residents to connect with each other as well as with carers and family members and give moments of happiness or reflection when there are cultural or religious celebrations

Chapters in the Digest include delivering a positive mealtime experience menu planning and design and catering for special diets

Helen who is also a member of the NACC says “The Care Home Digest builds on the work of the BDA s Nutrition and Hydration Digest a resource for all those involved in the provision of food and drink services in hospitals and which forms part of the National Standards for Healthcare Food and Drink Until now no similar national food service standards have existed to support care homes for older adults to meet the nutritional needs of their residents We hope these guidelines will be widely used and become a nationally trusted resource in the same way ”

The information and checklists within the guidelines are intended to support care homes to review their services to understand what they are already doing well and where improvements could be considered and made

Neel Radia National Chair of the NACC says The National Association of Care Catering is proud to have been working in collaboration with the BDA for this unique Care Home Digest

“This document is a welcome and necessary publication to enable consistency across the care home sector A multidisciplinary team bringing hospitality and nutrition together is the best solution for an all-encompassing approach to meeting residents nutritional needs This is a must-have document for all catering teams in care homes, from induction through to ongoing reference and review No care home for the elderly should operate without this

“Thank you to Helen Ream and the entire team who have worked so hard in putting this together and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone in the care sector

OHK - Your Specialist Partner for Dysphagia Management

Founded by Preston Walker and James Ball, globally recognised experts in texture modification and culinary applications for modifying food OHK is your specialist partner for Dysphagia management

Our mission is to provide comprehensive training programs and implementation support that empowers healthcare providers to deliver safe nutrition and reduce risk across the care setting We work in collaboration with you and your teams to secure a better quality of life for individuals with specialised diets Because everyone deserves the right to safe nutrition WHY CHOOSE OHK?

We offer validated and clinically endorsed training programs ensuring your setting complies with current best practices and standards Our courses are mapped to the Eating Drinking and Swallowing Competency Framework from the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and delivers best practice guidance reflecting the globally recognised International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI)

OHK provides high quality cost-effective eLearning modules tailored to dysphagia training needs These modules are available as bundles or individual courses which can be accessed via OHK s or your own Learning Management portal, providing flexibility to meet your organisation’s requirements For advanced training needs we also offer in-person courses

MORE THAN JUST A TRAINING PROVIDER

OHK assists you in establishing a safe, auditable process and internal framework, helping to enhance your specialist catering solutions Whether you have 1 or 100+ beds we have a solution for you that is cost-effective accessible and scalable

Our courses are developed and maintained in collaboration with East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust ensuring the highest quality and accuracy of guidance Expert Dysphagia Consultancy

OHK s expertise has attracted partnership from a range of organisations including Norse Care, Belong Villages and numerous NHS Trusts, including East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Ayrshire and Arran NHS and the States of Guernsey OHK provides Care England with care catering expertise to support its members and improve standards in the sector

At OHK we are more than just a training provider; we are your partners in delivering excellence in dysphagia care Together we can help you transform your healthcare setting and ensure safe enjoyable nutrition for all

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It is hoped this document will also support the Care Quality Commission and other nations’ inspectorates to know what they should be assessing and checking for during their visits to care homes and further influence the development of improved standards in such a vital aspect of care After the successful launch of

group of suppliers selected through the Open Doors Programme Aimed at small food and beverage suppliers the Open Doors Programme identifies the most innovative businesses trying to establish themselves within the industry and raises awareness of their products so they can make their mark in wholesale

Despite the recent deceleration in inflation the share of small businesses aspiring to grow

CATERING FOR CARE

Enhancing Care for Dysphagia: Establishing EDS Competencies for Improved Quality of Life

Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing is a condition that can significantly impact the quality of life for many individuals particularly residents in health and social care facilities Addressing the needs of those with, or at risk of developing, dysphagia is crucial for enhancing their daily experiences and ensuring high standards of care to ultimately improve their quality of life

To achieve this, it's essential to establish Eating Drinking and Swallowing (EDS) competencies across whole care teams, to fully equip the multidisciplinary team (MDT) with the expertise needed to provide comprehensive support

EMBEDDING EATING, DRINKING AND SWALLOWING COMPETENCIES – A QUICK DIGEST

Establishing EDS competencies involves identifying the specific knowledge and skill sets required for each role within the care and catering teams as outlined in the Eating Drinking and Swallowing Competency Framework (EDSCF) This approach ensures that every team member from carers and nurses to caterers and managers possesses the necessary competencies to support residents effectively Fundamental to this is adherence to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) Framework which details the exact methods for preparing high quality nutritious meals and drinks that are tailored to residents specific swallowing needs

Supporting a sustainable implementation of EDS competencies involves addressing staff turnover accommodating new staff members, managing role changes and providing ongoing training Clear objectives and straightforward management protocols are essential for maintaining these standards over time Additionally, regular feedback mechanisms should be established to continually assess and improve the care provided ensuring that residents receive the best possible support to enhance their quality of life and reduce the risks associated with dysphagia

IMPLEMENTING EDS AT SCALE: IS IT ACHIEVABLE?

Implementing EDS competencies at scale has been successfully demonstrated in various regions and care settings across the UK with adoption globally too Examples of this include East Sussex NHS Healthcare Trust South Tyneside NHS Trust, the States of Guernsey, Ayrshire and Arran NHS Trust along with private settings Norse Care & Catering and Belong Villages Between 2 000 and 6 000 staff from each organisation across a wide spectrum of care catering and management roles, enrolled and completed EDS and IDDSI specific training schemes In all settings integration of EDS training and systems has significantly benefitted the care facilities and their residents TANGIBLE RESULTS DEMONSTRATE EFFICACY AMONG MDTS.

Following an EDS training pilot with South Tyneside NHS community settings 74% of participants reported they would change the way they would work as a result of completing the programme, with 34% stating they were more confident in knowing how to refer residents for assessments

In East Sussex NHS Healthcare Trust 86% of staff stated the catering for dysphagia diets course helped them in the way they work due to improved knowledge which positively impacts quality of life food safety and the choice that can be offered to patients in these settings

Similarly the States of Guernsey implementation report, showed that both the kitchen services and an acute stroke ward demonstrated an improvement in the production of foods for the IDDSI Framework, and the understanding and confidence in all staff to support patients with dysphagia

Norse Care & Catering and Belong Villages have also seen improvements following engagement with a IDDSI and EDS-specific training programmes Norse noted that 84% of attendees to the onboarding sessions felt they left with a good or strong understanding of supporting people with eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties Belong also

attested to training s efficacy in improving confidence in compliance and quality practices

THE POTENTIAL OF SUSTAINABLE INTEGRATED EDS TRAINING IS HUGE.

The outcomes of implementing sustainable, integrated EDS training and systems are substantial The pilot with East Sussex NHS Healthcare Trust led to reductions in incidents, increased confidence among staff, higher quality referrals as well as improved food quality Specifically an initial drop in incidents of 85%, with a year-on-year reduction of 33% in incidents on the unit until end of 2022 Since the introduction of this training there has been just one incident in 2023 and no never events or near misses A value that cannot be underestimated

Staff now also have a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by patients with dysphagia, enabling more compassionate and effective support to patients resulting in meaningful impact on their lives

Systematic catering systems provide numerous additional benefits

The States of Guernsey audit report highlights improvements in staff efficiencies consistency in service delivery effective and speedy problem solving and enhanced due diligence processes For example all chefs undertaking IDDSI level specific food training responded very confident’ or ‘extremely confident’ for all IDDSI food production levels Fiona Gardiner Specialist Speech & Language Therapist commented following the pilot; “Guernsey has embedded training throughout levels 1 and 2 of the EDSCF The dysphagia modules support all levels of staff to meet their competency on the framework and this training has meant that risks for people with dysphagia have significantly been reduced In addition we have used IDDSI catering training throughout the hospital catering departments, which has inspired the chefs ” IMPROVING QUALITY OF CARE FOR THE LONG TERM.

These systematic approaches improve the immediate care environment and through robust data capture highlighting better outcomes can help provide confidence to organisations aiming to invest in a strong dysphagia management strategy Establishing and maintaining EDS and IDDSI competencies across care teams is what’s needed to enhance the quality of life for residents with dysphagia and ensure long term sustainability and resilience in care standards

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

TSA and De Montfort University Look To Set New Standard For Healthcare Laundr y Wash Processes

The Textile Services Association (TSA) recently presented a new standardised test protocol for evaluating the disinfection efficacy of laundry wash processes at its spring conference This marks the latest stage in the ongoing partnership between the TSA and De Montfort University (DMU) The research aims to provide accurate information and usable methods of ensuring hygienic cleaning of textiles particularly in relation to sectors more vulnerable to infection such as healthcare

The new protocols were developed following a four-year research project led by Professor Katie Laird at DMU which was funded and supported by the TSA and other national associations from Europe and America Professor Laird and her team have extensive experience in studying healthcare textiles and have previously investigated the survival of microorganisms on textiles and specific wash processes required to decontaminate laundry, among other topics

The importance of creating an effective standardised test for evaluating hygienic cleaning is something that Simon Fry owner of specialist

laundry firm Micronclean Ltd and a TSA board member has been focussing on since joining the TSA over eight years ago The idea for this project came about when manufacturers began introducing chemicals for cold washing he says While it s a great idea in terms of energy saving it can introduce risks in terms of less effective disinfection which is compounded if the traditional tests being used weren t giving accurate results

You could almost pick the test to get the results you wanted, says Simon I realised that we would need something that accurately showed the kill rates of bacteria, which could be used by all stakeholders to deliver data that allows everyone to work on a level playing field "

The TSA reached out to Professor Laird and began funding research with the aim of creating standardised testing protocols that definitively measure how many pathogens are killed by laundry washing processes

In order to achieve this the DMU team needed to study existing infection controls and the current processing methods for healthcare laundry They also needed to understand the attitudes and knowledge of healthcare staff in terms of infection control policies and how these apply to textiles Alongside funding the research the TSA also organised surveys of both its members in the UK as well as overseas to help build a clearer understanding of the landscape

The test developed by Professor Laird and her team accurately demonstrates the disinfection efficacy of laundry during a wash process-

es in a way that can be used throughout the healthcare sector whether it is in outsourced laundries or on-premise laundries The test involves placing a sample of inoculated fabric within a membrane, which looks similar to a teabag that allows water and chemicals through but stops bacteria from escaping meaning that the effectiveness of the decontamination of the laundry process can be properly evaluated This allows for a like-forlike comparison of different washing methods and equipment types and how effectively they kill bacteria present on textiles helping to ensure that infection control standards are maintained

Being able to measure disinfection accurately within a working laundry is paramount in managing textiles as a transmission route for infections particularly in healthcare settings" Professor Laird

"The publishing of these test protocols is an important milestone in our ongoing research collaboration says David Stevens CEO of the TSA The next phase we will see the test methodology incorporated within best practice standards driven by the other national associations this will include working with the TRSA in America and ETSA in Europe

Professor Laird's team will continue their research into improving hygiene in laundry focussing on spores that aren t killed thermally and biofilms that form inside laundry equipment

For more information on the new testing protocols visit tsa-uk org

Brewer and Bunney – Pioneering Commercial Laundr y Solutions

Brewer and Bunney proud to be the best in the South West for over 40 years provides specialised laundry services and equipment specifically tailored to the needs of healthcare facilities including NHS and private hospitals Emphasising the critical importance of infection control and legislative compliance, Brewer and Bunney aligns its offerings with standards such as the Department of Health HTM 01-04 guidelines They equip hospitals with advanced energy-efficient laundry machines designed to meet the rigorous demands of hospital environments

Brewer and Bunney offers comprehensive services including expert consultation installation and ongoing maintenance ensuring that hospital laundry operations are both efficient and effective in maintaining high hygiene standards crucial for patient care and safety For NHS facilities Brewer and

and

In addition, Brewer and Bunney supports healthcare facilities in setting up inhouse laundry operations, helping hospitals regain control over their laundry processes This approach optimises costs and improves quality and compliance with health standards By bringing laundry services in-house hospitals can ensure consistent high-quality outcomes that meet the specific needs of healthcare environments including effective infection prevention 0808 500 8093 brewerandbunney co uk enquiries@brewerandbunney co uk

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

Forbes Professional Ensures Smooth Laundr y and Warewashing in UK Care Homes

C.R. Wood - The Commercial Laundr y & Dishwashing

Experts in the South West

Timeless Presents

Timeless Presents are an award winning husband and wife team working to connect and engage those living in the later stages of dementia Inspired by a father s journey with Alzheimers Timeless Presents have created innovative activities and engagement solutions that can be used to engage in the later stages to the benefit of the user the carer and the caring organisation Their innovative approach combines familiar traditional pastimes with design features that enable users with late dementia to easily engage Their first three products have all been accredited as Dementia Inclusive by the world leading Dementia Services Design Centre at Stirling University and have also achieved an Innovation award at the recent Dementia Care Awards 2024 Drawing from their personal experiences and informed by the current understanding of cognitive issues faced by those with dementia Sharon and Chris Daltrey have embarked on a mission to make a difference in the lives of individuals currently living with dementia Forbury Residential Home had this to say “Our residents really enjoyed them The

zles and colouring books Thank you so much for giving our residents a better quality of life ”

In a significant milestone Timeless Presents recently achieved accreditation from the internationally renowned Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) for three of its products, being the first time that they had assessed activities of any sort This accreditation underscores the company s commitment to creating dementia-inclusive products that meet the highest standards of quality and effectiveness They also recently exhibited at the Alzheimers and Dementia Show at London Excel in June 2024 to a warm reception from industry professionals including occupational therapists Activity Co-Ordinators and Admiral Nurses who all commended their products

With a focus on affordability accessibility and impact Timeless Presents aims to empower individuals with dementia and their caregivers to navigate the challenges of dementia with dignity and joy Through their innovative approach and dedication to excellence Timeless Presents is shaping the future of dementia care one meaningful interaction at a time

07936 408 941 connect@timelesspresents com www timelesspresents com

Focus Games - Game Based Training for Ever y Situation

Focus Games are the leading game developers focused on education for healthcare staff and patients

Game-based learning is an innovative approach to education that leverages the principles of games to create engaging and interactive learning experiences This approach has gained popularity in recent years due to its ability to motivate learners and improve retention rates Healthcare staff can benefit significantly from game-based learning as it can help them acquire new knowledge and skills in a fun and engaging way The key benefits of game-based learning for all healthcare staff are:

1 Enhanced engagement

2 Improved knowledge retention

3 Safe learning environment

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 top-notch 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

Unlocking Joy and Vitality:

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining mental agility and memory sharpness is crucial, especially for our beloved seniors

Gone are the days when traditional quizzes and bingo were the only options for mental stimulation Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software brings a fresh tech-savvy twist to these beloved activities making them more accessible and enjoyable for the elderly This software offers a plethora of features designed specifically to cater to the needs and preferences of seniors ensuring that everyone can participate and benefit

MEMORY RECALL AND BRAIN EXERCISE

One of the most remarkable benefits of using Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software in care homes is its positive impact on memory recall and cognitive health

Regular engagement with quizzes and bingo games has been shown to stimulate various parts of the brain, enhancing memory retention and recall abilities The software includes a wide range of quiz topics, from history and geography to music and movies, allowing residents to tap into their long-term memories and share their wealth of knowledge

Bingo on the other hand promotes concentration and mental alertness As residents listen for their numbers and mark their cards they are unknowingly participating in a fun yet highly effective brain exercise This dual approach of quizzes and bingo ensures a wellrounded cognitive workout keeping the mind sharp and agile

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND BELONGING

Beyond the cognitive benefits Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software fosters a sense of community and belonging among residents The interactive nature of

these games encourages social interaction, teamwork, and friendly competition

Whether it s a lively quiz session or a thrilling bingo game residents come together share laughs and create lasting memories This social engagement is essential for emotional well-being reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness that can sometimes affect seniors

EASY TO USE AND HIGHLY CUSTOMISABLE

The software is highly customizable allowing caregivers to tailor the difficulty levels and content to match the preferences and abilities of each resident This adaptability ensures that everyone regardless of cognitive ability can enjoy and benefit from these activities

A WORTHY INVESTMENT FOR EVERY CARE HOME

Investing in Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software is an investment in the health happiness and well-being of our residents The blend of cognitive stimulation social interaction and sheer enjoyment makes it a valuable addition to any care home's activity repertoire As we continue to prioritize the holistic health of our residents, incorporating such innovative tools will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter, more engaging future

Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software is more than just a game; it is a gateway to a more vibrant connected and mentally active life for our seniors We encourage all care homes to consider integrating this exceptional software into their daily routines Let s unlock joy and vitality one quiz and bingo game at a time!

Find us TODAY and access your FREE 7-day trial at: https://hashtagquiz co uk/quiz-for-the-elderlyand-seniors/

NURSE CALL AND FALLS

Stay Safe with Smart Wireless Nurse Call

Blaucomm Ltd - Telecommunications & Networks

Crash Mats Designed to Reduce Injuries from Bed Falls

NURSE CALL AND FALLS MONITORING

One Call Systems have developed one of the most reliable streamlined wireless nurse call systems on the market The rechargeable technology, water-resistant casings, and long-range radio capabilities set us apart

At the heart of the innovative Nursecall system is the One Call Display Panel which runs on an efficient internal radio network Designed to provide the highest level of performance and reliability The Display Panel allows staff to view live calls instantly Qualified installers will set up your system quickly and efficiently ensuring minimal disruption and maximum benefits

With the ability to connect to the internet you can easily monitor your Home's call records from anywhere The panel is completely configurable from the display allowing you to customize your Home's settings to your preferences Trust our innovative system to provide the safety and efficiency your Home’s needs

The One Call Room Units are designed to withstand the rigours of your busy care environment There are five alternative versions - Pear push lead Pull Cords Out of Bed Door monitor and Leadless Units that you can choose from that best suit your needs

Watertight casings and fitted rechargeable batteries mean that you can rest assured that the units can be easily washed and will provide reliable service for up to 2 years on a single charge

The Call Logging system is designed to meet the safety and care requirements of Care Homes and nursing facilities The digital solution ensures complete and accurate logging of every call to prove evidence of care This invaluable tool ensures the safety of your residents

The Call Logging system is a must-have for any Care Home that wants to ensure they are providing the best possible care

Onecall provides the ability to monitor response times attendance duration and which Carer has attended which call You can be sure that you have complete oversight of your care provision Not only does this system provide valuable evidence of care, but it also helps to motivate and encourage staff to continue providing an exceptional level of care Please email info@onecallsystems co uk or call 01252 448137

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

The Increasingly Important Role of Integrated Care and Technology in the Care Sector

With care homes increasingly oversubscribed and resources as stretched as ever, Sharon Bye, Director of Care for Central and Cecil Housing Trust (C&C) and Aster Group, highlights how new smart technology can allow providers to have greater oversight of specific resident care and maximise efficiency Readers will be well acquainted with the operational challenges facing the care sector

An ageing population combined with limited resources and a persistent skills shortage has left the sector under increasing pressure Having celebrated the 95th birthday of Central and Cecil Housing Trust (C&C) in 2022 we are well aware that these are by no means novel challenges and our past experience has provided us with useful lessons for navigating these headwinds However it s critical that we as care providers take every opportunity to tackle these challenges With the support of integrated care services and unified technology, we ve seen firsthand how its enabled

managers is the ability to deliver joined up effective services with less resources By adopting proven technologies and developments in the integration of care services, care home managers can critically refocus their efforts on delivering the best in care services Technology is the enabler to help drive efficiencies throughout operations without compromising the quality of

where we provide specialist care for people with advanced dementia in tandem with the North Central London Integrated Care Board (NCL ICB) Our work at the home has validated how the roll-out of integrated care systems and new digital technology can improve and reshape care provision

Examples of the technology we use on site include a motion sensor and acoustic monitoring system called Ally to help care teams monitor residents who may be at risk of falls and movement difficulties Carers are made aware of sudden motions and alerts pinpoint when it s necessary to intervene with professional assistance to prevent undue falls or distress for those residents

This has subsequently allowed for better sleep hygiene for the residents with night checks now taking place every two hours for most residents and every three hours for a few more depending on their needs and risks In the case of one resident we ve been able to track a significant decrease in overnight falls – none since December 2023 – and significantly reduce the need for staff members to visit her throughout the night with the motion sensor system allowing us to monitor from afar without unnecessary disruptions This means care staff can focus on residents who require hands on care during the night

We ve also utilised the ‘Whzan Blue Box’ early warning system which monitors and stores information on vital signs It automatically and immediately notifies a wider team of geriatricians clinicians and care home staff of any risks concerning results or medical attention needed When clinicians or paramedics do attend they are able to compare the resident’s readings to wider historical data on the system to establish a baseline In many cases this is preventing unnecessary medical treatment and significantly reducing the number of unplanned hospital trips for residents

In one case a resident presented with what appeared to be low oxygen saturation levels but when medics arrived they were able to look back at the range of recorded observations and conclude this wasn’t out of the ordinary for him A hospital admission was avoided, and the resident didn’t have to receive off-site treatment that could unduly displace and distress them The software unifies historic data, allowing staff to make clearer diagnostic and more specifically informed decisions about treatment based on past experiences with individual patients

The benefits of integrated care services and digitalisation are not just limited to inside the care home either with shared patient diagnostics helping to ease pressure on local emergency services as well as GP practices Rather than assessments being isolated a more cohesive integrated system enables heightened accuracy and a quicker response

Rathmore House has also been utilising a new connected triaging system named Silver Triage Installed in 2022 in collaboration with the NCL ICB as well as local NHS and ambulance trusts Silver Triage is designed to reduce unnecessary hospital trips and ease the burden on ambulance services, while enabling geriatricians to remotely assess, advise and guide ambulance paramedics attending patients in care homes where needed Doctors using the service can also help access

EASING THE BURDEN

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Imagine, Act And Succeed's Shift To Digital: A Game Changer!

After over 30 years, care charity Imagine, Act and Succeed finally swapped their paper rotas and timesheets for a digitised system to help manage their 85 locations and 460+ staff

Emma Hobbs Payroll Officer at the charity grew frustrated over the inaccuracies and errors of this cumbersome process - especially when it led to wages The system was often outdated and staff frequently missed shift changes This led to lost time money and patience for both managers and employees

So, how can turning to digital systems like RotaCloud improve this?

The information is accessible to us in payroll straight away which is an absolute godsend Being able to see instantly where someone is working, what shift they ve actually done the clock-in and clock-out records are just - it s made our payroll side so much more streamlined to what it was beforehand ” - Emma Hobbs, Payroll Officer

Accuracy is the biggest benefit for Emma and her team There s no more chasing people for paperwork or last-minute runs for payroll Managers can instantly access live reports from labour costs to attendance with clocking-in data automatically feeding to timesheets When clocking in and out is as simple as a click or tap via mobile, web, or a terminal, employees (and Emma) can trust that all wages are correct

Communication has also improved By having everything at their fingertips from shifts to requests everyone works from the same page It has made staff s lives much easier and saved managers time Enabling notifications also means any updates to the rota annual leave requests or available shifts are immediately

Pass by ever yLIFE

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

sent to the appropriate staff No more sending out WhatsApp updates, missed messages or stress trying to find cover

Before RotaCloud, Imagine, Act and Succeed managers sat down for two days

has recently been launched bringing advanced rostering functionality to our established digital care planning platform As a result advanced staff scheduling payroll and invoicing functionality is now seamlessly linked with care planning and reporting reducing the technical complexity risk and overhead associated with integrating two separate systems

As a result PASS now provides an all-in-one suite of digital care management tools, available from a single platform, designed to: Save you time

Increase the efficiency of your teams

Improve the quality of care

Deliver better outcomes

INTEGRATED HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE

Our commitment to the continual evolution of PASS is further illustrated by the addition of GP Connect The first product of its type to offer this feature, PASS is still one of only a handful of digital care

management solutions to have completed this NHS Digital integration and is the only one offering it to the home care market PASS GP Connect provides authorised social care staff with realtime access to their client’s GP records It makes medical information available when and where it is needed leading to improvements in both care safety and outcomes:

Visibility of allergies vaccinations and medications especially useful for clients unable to reliably share their personal information

Using medical information to inform care planning

Ensuring that the right medication is delivered to the right person in the timeliest manner In one case this allowed the administration of antibiotics on a Friday evening, aiding the service user s swift recovery from infection

Available to all PASS users at no additional cost PASS GP Connect is significantly more efficient than waiting for a GP response It’s also a positive step forward on the path to the DHSC s goal for widespread digitally enabled care and is in full alignment with their ambition for joined up care for everyone

Get in touch: www everylifetechnologies com hello@everylifetechnologies com

RECRUITMENT & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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