The Carer Digital - Issue #218

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

TIME FOR A FUNDAMENTAL RETHINK ON SOCIAL CARE FUNDING

social care funding

As it stands the plan to split £600 million through the Social Care Grant and £700 million through a "targeted deprivation-based approach risks as our lead story confirms short-changing county authorities

This stark shift from previous funding settlements meaning local authorities could lose millions for essential care services

If councils are expected to absorb rising costs from the National Living Wage (NLW) employer national insurance (ENI) contributions and other economic pressures this funding allocation will barely make a dent in bridging the colossal funding gap For county councils on the front lines of delivering vital care services the numbers simply do not add up

Care England has also issued a dire warning The compounded impact of NLW increases, NI contributions, and reductions in the Secondary Threshold is pushing care providers to the brink

These pressures extend beyond adult social care industries across the board, from hospitality to retail are calling out the untenable costs imposed by policy changes and inflation

We here are RBC Publishing produce a title for the hospitality sector and their warnings about the impact of NLW increases NI contributions and reductions in the Secondary Threshold could not be starker Job losses, reduced working and opening hours closures of bars pubs restaurants all predicted in 2025

Inflation’s uptick by 0 6% yesterday underscores the fragility of the UK economy If we cannot address these financial pressures head-on the cascading effects on employment consumer spending and business sustainability will only deepen the crisis

Leading retailers including Tesco Amazon and Greggs have added their voices to this growing chorus urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reconsider the cumulative burden of budgetary policies

These companies (much like us all at present) operate on razor-thin margins; any reduction in staffing or closures will lead to a net reduction in Treasury income and an increase in unemployment-related expenses

The reality is glaring: a failing economy directly undermines the funding required for adult social care We cannot isolate the care sector from broader economic realities

If the Treasury does not implement a comprehensive rethink we risk a perfect storm of financial instability across multiple sectors by the first quarter of 2025

Yet amidst these challenges we are continually inspired by the stories sent to us from care homes across the country tales of resilience, community spirit, and heartwarming celebrations Whether it s fundraising efforts milestone birthdays or community outreach initiatives, these moments remind us of the humanity at the heart of our care system

Please keep sharing your stories; they shine a much-needed light in challenging times I can always be contacted at editor@thecareruk com

Finally a heartfelt thank you to our readers and visitors In October our website www thecareruk com welcomed an impressive 3 987 visitors per day with 27 048 pages read daily Your engagement fuels our mission to advocate for care homes and the people they serve Together, let’s push for the changes our sector so urgently needs I would also like to 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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We are committed to keeping you informed with the latest news views products and services on the sector s most popular adult social care website www thecareruk com , which receives almost 4,000 visits and 26,000 page reads every day

However, with costs rising significantly, we recently put out an appeal for support

We extend our heartfelt thanks to readers who have responded and pledged their support with a £10 donation covering the next two years, and thank you also for your very kind words of support too!

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Editor Peter Adams

Calls For ‘Rethink’ On Social Care Funding

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

However addressing the annual conference CNN Chairman Cllr Tim Oliver warned that if councils are expected to pick up the bill for the increase in the national living wage (NLW) and care providers costs from the employers national insurance (NI) the £1 3bn will do very little’ to bridge the funding gap facing its members next year

But for counties he said the situation could potentially get worse come the local government finance settlement because of the way the government intends to distribute the resources

In the last two local government settlements the government have distributed the vast majority of new grant funding via the social care grant recognising the most severe spending pressures facing councils are in adults and children’s social care

However despite this the government announced at the Budget that only £600m of the new £1 3bn in funding will be allocated this way with £700m set aside for a targeted deprivation-based approach’ LESS FUNDING

New analysis for CCN suggests the decision by the government to dedicate more than half of the £1 3bn of new funding could mean social care authorities in county and rural areas receive hundreds of millions less funding compared to previous approaches to distributing new resources for councils

Modelling by Pixel Financial Management for CCN shows that if the government distributes £600m via the social care grant and £700m using a formula that is based on the Index of Multiple Deprivation CCN member councils’ allocation would reduce by a third – almost £190m –compared to distributing the entire £1 3bn via the social care grant

With adults and children s services facing mounting costs due to the living wage and national insurance rise announcements, CCN is calling for a rethink on the approach They say the government should increase the amount dedicated to the social care grant next year within the £1 3bn while diverting additional funding from the NHS to social care next year’ to help pay for the NLW increase and NI rise

CCN also says the government must not seek to change or redistribute any existing resources within the local government settlement “PUSHED TO THE BRINK”

Explaining why Cllr Tim Oliver told the audience that ‘while deprivation is an important indicator of need it is not the main driver of councils’ unstainable rise in costs, nor the key measure of who is under the most financial distress

With previous analysis by the network showing that 83% of the increase in councils costs next year due to pressures in adult children’s and home to school transport he told the delegates ‘whether it’s the acute rise in children s placement fees care for working age adults or escalating spend on SEND home to school transport it is demand and market failure that is pushing councils of all shapes sizes and political control to the brink

CCN say that using the social grant would be a fairer way to fund councils and would not disadvantage other parts of the sector The analysis shows that dedicating more funding through the social care grant would still result in urban metropolitan boroughs receiving more resources per head next year than CCN member councils This is because county and rural authorities already receive less of this funding with metropolitan boroughs receiving 46% more per head from this allocation method

With the government recently announcing its intention to undertake a full review of the distribution of council funding as part of the Spending Review he also warned Ministers not succumb to pressure to cherry pick certain changes that benefit parts of the sector’ “FINANCIALLY DEVASTATING”

He said that while CCN supported reform, a ‘narrow focus on revenue raising abilities and council equalisation would have a financially devastating’ impact on CCN member councils

In undertaking reform he called for the government to fully engage with the sector on any changes and ensure the review was a ‘genuine fair funding review that looked at both needs and resources

CCN say this will mean implementing the previous government s independently developed adult, children’s and public health formulas, alongside revisiting previous government plans for other formulas so they give equal weight to both urban and rural deprivation

Critically they say this must implement a partial council tax equalisation, alongside a commitment that no authority will lose an unsustainable level of resources with dedicated additional funding to support

transition to the new allocations as part of a three-year multi-year settlement

YEAR OF UNDERFUNDING

Earlier this month Care England warned that the adult social care sector was already facing an unsustainable level of pressure before recent policy changes added further financial strain, citing years of underfunding rising demand and workforce challenges had left providers in a precarious position struggling to deliver essential services within increasingly tight budgets

Now Care England say the recent uplift in the National Living Wage (NLW) the increase in Employer National Insurance (ENI) contributions and the reduction in the Secondary Threshold have together driven the adult social care sector to the brink, imposing an additional £3 7 billion in costs This equates to a 10 6% rise in pay expenses from April 2025 a burden that many providers cannot realistically absorb Without immediate intervention, these funding gaps and closures will have far-reaching consequences straining local economies increasing pressures on families and placing additional burdens on the NHS The social care sector is at a tipping point, and without urgent, comprehensive funding reform the essential care and support that millions of individuals rely on will be at severe risk UNMET NEEDS

Cllr David Fothergill Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board said: “Adult social care is often seen primarily as a service for older people but many who access on it are younger working-age adults with disabilities While their aspirations such as independence relationships and hobbies may align with those of older generations, supporting them effectively requires a distinct approach This report highlights the urgent need for focused attention on this group as we address funding and reform

“The projections are concerning for those needing care amid widespread unmet needs and the overwhelming majority of councils expected to overspend on adult social services next year Without immediate investment and a long-term funding strategy, the situation will only deteriorate Ensuring adequate resources to support workingage adults equally must be a government priority

A Day in the Life of a Care Home Worker

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? WHAT ARE YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DAILY TASKS?

No two days are ever the same in my role and this is one of the many things that keep the job so interesting! Each day is filled with meaningful interactions and moments of joy that make this role incredibly fulfilling

Every day as a carer is refreshingly unique With each resident bringing their own story, personality, and preferences, no two days are ever alike!

Mornings begin with a focus on care and comfort I start by assisting our residents with their morning routines from helping them get out of bed and attending to their personal care needs to dressing and sharing a warm conversation that lets me check in on how they’re feeling It’s these interactions that often mean the most – providing reassurance and companionship as we prepare for the day ahead Afterwards, we ensure residents have their morning medication and enjoy a nutritious breakfast For those who like to dine with others, we serve breakfast in the dining room where we ve created a warm homely space to connect and chat with friends

Mid-morning brings an array of enriching experiences Each day the team and I introduce experiences designed around our residents interests, whether it’s a lively singalong, a craft session or a gentle exercise class Inspired by one of our residents who continues his lifelong exercise habit, Sanctuary Care helped us to create a fully equipped gym that he and now many of our other residents use Resident involvement is at the heart of our community Many of our residents take on ambassador roles within the home having a voice in everything from selecting new staff to organising experiences They attend staff meetings sharing their insights, and have spearheaded opportunities like our popular gardening club and our cookery club where we make everything from bread to home-cooked curries Seeing them actively shape our home s culture is truly inspiring

As the day winds down residents may choose to gather for a homecooked dinner in the dining room or enjoy a quieter meal in their own

rooms if they prefer During the evening there’s a range of experiences to suit every interest some like to relax with a film in the cinema room while others might opt for a book a game or a stroll in the garden

Nighttime is all about calm and comfort We help residents settle down, assisting with nightwear and any relaxation routines they enjoy We check in regularly to see that they re comfortable always here to offer whatever support they need In this role, it’s a privilege to make each day memorable for those in our care

HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR LINE OF WORK?

After spending years in administration I felt a pull towards a more fulfilling career that offered new challenges and the chance to make a real difference My wife Adelaid who also works as a carer here encouraged me to apply to Castlecroft Residential Care Home knowing that I already felt incredibly passionate about the care sector and that I wanted to pursue a new role where I felt I could really help others

After just a few weeks, I knew that this was exactly where I was supposed to be! Being able to see the positive impact that I could have on residents’ lives has given me a sense of purpose that I have not experienced in any other role

It’s incredibly rewarding to give back to those who have given so much throughout their lives Thanks to the team at Sanctuary Care I ve received excellent training and support, making my transition smooth and enabling me to feel confident and empowered in this career WHAT SKILLS AND PERSONALITY TRAITS DO YOU NEED FOR YOUR JOB?

Providing exceptional care requires a mix of compassion sensitivity and strong communication skills Connecting meaningfully with each resident and working closely with the team is essential to creating a supportive respectful environment for everyone

A positive attitude goes a long way in delivering high-quality care whilst teamwork ensures smooth collaboration with colleagues from different backgrounds and personalities Practical skills such as good attention to detail and strong observational skills are also essential for monitoring residents’ wellbeing – a critical part of our daily responsibilities Most importantly I believe empathy and a genuine desire to enrich residents’ lives, day in and day out, should be central to everything we do WHAT PART OF YOUR ROLE DO YOU FIND THE MOST REWARDING?

Supporting and enhancing our residents’ physical and emotional wellbeing gives me a deep sense of purpose It may be something as simple as creating an opportunity for our residents to engage in activities they love or have always been passionate about This can be incredibly fulfilling particularly when you see the happiness it brings

The connections and relationships you build with the people you care for add a special dimension to this role For me the most fulfilling part is knowing that each day I can make even just a small difference to our residents

I believe the personal, human-centred aspect of this job is priceless no amount of money can equal the gratitude it brings WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CARING?

I feel very fortunate to work in a role where I can see the direct

impact of my efforts on the residents I care for Our residents have become like an extended family to me and the achievement I feel is so rewarding

It s amazing to witness the positive changes that you can make big or small, to help residents to retain their independence and to have a sense of purpose The bonds we share are special we re always laughing, chatting and sharing stories, which I genuinely enjoy hearing

It s a profoundly satisfying role; I care for my residents as if they were my own parents, and always with the understanding that we all deserve to be treated with the same compassion and kindness WHAT IS IT ABOUT WHAT YOU DO THAT YOU FEEL ADDS THE MOST VALUE?

For me it s about the simple yet meaningful things - ensuring the residents feel truly cared for, safe and happy They know I’m always there for them through good times and bad That sense of family and trust means everything to me; it’s what drives me to give my very best when it comes to caring for them each and every day IN A SENTENCE HOW DO YOU ENRICH LIVES?

Along with ensuring our residents receive the highest quality care I try to do everything I can to enrich their lives in a very personal way It may be simply knowing when a warm smile or comforting hug will provide the warmth and positive energy they need Those small gestures can go such a long way in brightening a resident s day DO YOU HAVE ANY STANDOUT CAREER MOMENTS?

The highlight of my career so far was being shortlisted for the Carer of the Year Award at the National Care Awards 2024 The recognition is an honour which I owe to Castlecroft s amazing family of residents and their loved ones, as well as my work family, who inspire me every day I don t do this job for accolades; I do it for the love and joy I find in caring for our residents but it is nevertheless great to have affirmation of the hard work and passion I give to this role and to the residents! HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT EACH RESIDENT FEELS VALUED AND HEARD IN THEIR DAILY LIVES?

It is about so much more than their physical and emotional care needs Every resident is unique; it’s about knowing their passions, the people close to their hearts and what they need to feel content happy and fulfilled

I try to empower our residents to live life on their own terms by respecting them as individuals and actively listening to enhance their care experience

Treating each resident with genuine kindness and respect I focus on their strengths and assure them of my support to help them overcome any obstacles This consistency and compassionate approach are essential to building residents’ confidence and supporting their mental wellbeing

Creating an environment where every resident feels a sense of belonging purpose and continuity is central to everything I do Above all, I want the people I have the privilege of caring for to feel truly loved and valued just like family

For more information about Sanctuary Care visit www sanctuary-care co uk

Care Home Worker Scoops Coveted National T itle

In conversation with Tilu Ngwira, Care Home Worker at Sanctuary Care’s Castlecroft Residential

Urgent Reform Needed To Protect Migrant Workers In The Care Sector Report Reveals

The Work Rights Centre has published a report The forgotten third migrant workers’ views on improving conditions in England’s adult social care sector which examines what migrants who fill as many as 32% of care worker roles in England think about the sector and what needs to change

The report is based on interviews and survey responses from migrant care workers, as well as Violation Tracker UK’s analysis of regulatory infringements by 920 companies registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)

The findings from the interviews and survey revealed that migrant care workers are subject to unsustainable working hours low pay persistent breaches of employment rights and a punitive visa regime ANALYSIS OF THE DATA ON VIOLATION TRACKER UK INDICATES THAT VISA SPONSOR NON-COMPLIANCE IS WIDESPREAD, FINDING THAT:

A total of 177 companies with a licence to sponsor migrant care workers in August 2024 had a labour standards violations record dated between 2020 and July 2024 This includes 42 companies that had more than one labour standards violation

• Together these companies lost a total of 225 Employment Tribunal cases during that time for which they were ordered to pay more than £6 million in compensation to workers

• The most common employment rights breach was unfair dismissal, followed by unauthorised deductions from wages and discrimination

Karolina Gerlich, CEO of the Care Workers’ Charity, says “This report highlights deeply troubling realities

for many migrant care workers We have consistently advocated for action on the inadequate pay, limited advancement opportunities, and excessive working hours that care workers can endure The accounts in this report of some workers clocking over 100 hours a week while others face underemployment only reinforce the urgent need for reform Key findings of The Forgotten Third reveal that 59% of respondents had experienced workplace discrimination, including racism, and many feared that raising grievances might jeopardize their immigration status Migrant care workers also reported significant difficulties in changing visa sponsors which further restricts their employment options and mobility

Fear of reprisal and visa complications should not be faced by any care worker and we ve heard these same stories from workers through grant applications and in roundtable discussions with frontline staff No one should feel silenced or afraid of losing their status for speaking out about injustices in their workplace

The Care Workers’ Charity is calling for urgent action from policymakers, employers, and industry stakeholders to address these systemic issues including the implementation of better pay progression opportunities, and support structures that protect workers rights without compromising their immigration status Every worker deserves respect fair pay and a safe environment in which to work This report should be a wake-up call and we urge everyone in the sector to take these findings seriously and act swiftly to improve conditions ”

Residents Enjoy a Teddy Bears Picnic for World Children’s Day

Staff and residents at Barchester s Hollyfields care home in Kidderminster had a wonderful time reminiscing about their childhoods for World Children s Day

The staff and residents got into the spirit of the day as families bought their children along with their treasured furry friends to enjoy a Teddy Bears Picnic The homes lounge was all sandwiches sweet treats and chatter! Celebrated annually on November 20 World Children s Day is supported by Unicef This year’s theme is “Listen to the Future”, encouraging the world to actively listen to children s hopes, dreams, and visions for the future

During the day several of the children visited our residents in their rooms to read their favourite stories and we all enjoyed listening to vintage lullaby s singing along and sharing the memories each evoked General Manager Alison Moseley-Shaw said: “Our residents love interacting with children their absolute favourite thing is when children come to visit It was lovely to see the children and residents interact and talk about their bear friends World Children s Day is a great way for our residents to reminisce about their childhoods and learn from the next generation ”

Staff Support In Winter: Is The Care Sector Doing Enough?

In the care sector, we hold staff wellbeing to be particularly important As a family-run business we treat our team members like part of the family having been named regional winner for the Midlands of the Home Care Employer Award at the Great British Care Awards

By embracing employee wellbeing in winter we re taking the lead to make sure that everyone not just our clients is safe and warm as the temperature drops!

PRACTICAL SUPPORT

Speaking from experience, educating our team on staying warm and safe during winter is a great first step – but practical help and support is where the real value lies

We successfully introduced our winter kits to great effect, providing ice scrapers de-icer and other handy items to keep safe on the roads in winter and it has made a huge difference to how our carers start their shifts in winter

We all know how stressful it can be to spend time defrosting the car particularly when the roads are icy and you are expected at a client s home – so we have endeavoured to alleviate this stress and make our team s commute safer

We also recently introduced our night safety kits to keep our carers safe in darker months These include torches and a panic alarm so that

our carers can feel safe while carrying out their job after dark THE ROLE OF FAMILY

VALUES

Our family values and family-first approach to operating are at the core of the support we offer to staff Every one of our team members is part of the family reflecting and championing our commitment to independence personal development and help and support when it’s needed

Being a family business is part of what makes Nexus unique and what has earned us nominations for a number of industry awards, including the Caring UK Awards It also helped us become a Top 20 home care provider in the West Midlands!

A major element of this success however is Nexus as an employer

as well as Nexus as a care provider

By Tinga Umera, Managing Director, Nexus

Our approach to supporting the safety, wellbeing and development of our team is at the forefront of what we do, and this is nowhere more apparent than in the winter months, when extra support and flexibility may be required

COULD THE CARE SECTOR BE DOING MORE?

At Nexus we pride ourselves on not

Although

This

Providers

A

Alzheimer’s Society Report Exposes the Need for Mandator y Dementia Training Care England Says

Care England has issues a response to the Alzheimer s Society

‘Because We’re Human Too’ report, which reveals a growing crisis while the number of people living with dementia continues to rise the level of specialist training among care staff has not kept pace with this increasing demand

Professor Martin Green OBE Chief Executive of Care England commented: “People living with dementia are an important and valued part of our society and the staff who care for them must be trained to provide the best possible care The Alzheimer’s Society s report highlights a critical gap in dementia training across the care sector and Care England strongly supports their call for mandatory dementia training We know that well-trained staff improve the quality of life for people with dementia enhance job satisfaction and reduce pressures on the wider health and social care systems We need to ensure action is implemented to ensure that dementia training is a fundamental part of care staff development

Care England supports the call for mandatory dementia training for care staff, however, there needs to be a standard for funded mandatory training to prevent an opportunity for different organisations to profit from launching random training support Across the sector, we see such a variety of training, there is a necessity for a uniformed consistent minimum standard of training which is funded by the government With nearly 1 million people living with dementia in the UK there has been a focus on looking at prevention however the Government needs to consider and support those living with dementia today The majority of individuals living with dementia rely

Care Village Remembers Special Resident at Garden Opening

A former resident has been remembered at the official opening of a garden that she helped fund at the Belong Macclesfield care village where she loved to spend time outdoors

The garden recently received a complete makeover funded in part by Beryl Casswell who lived at the village before she died with landscaping and the additions of raised vegetable troughs and planters for flowers and plants as well as new furniture, lighting, tool shed and a summer house

Another former resident, Diana Seabright, also made a donation towards the creation of a wildflower area at the care village

Care village residents and colleagues members of the local community and Beryl s friends gathered in the garden to celebrate the unveiling with entertain-

ment from Anna Beamont, known as the Golden Age Songbird, who sang classic songs from the 20s to the 50s They also unveiled a deer sculpture with a plaque as a tribute to Beryl

Commenting on the official opening, village manager Cheryl Davies said: "The garden is a fitting tribute to a beautiful person who was loved by all at Belong and it will be enjoyed by countless people years to come Thank you to the generous lady for this and everyone who came along to commemorate her ”

“We would also like to give special thanks to Urban Green and Landscape Engineering Ltd for designing and creating the garden

Mattress-Turning System Could Prevent Pressure Ulcers

Occurring For Those In Social Care While Offering Major Cost Savings, According To Care England White Paper

A White Paper commissioned by Care England has suggested that an innovative mattress-turning system has the potential to prevent pressure ulcers occurring for people in adult social care while improving their comfort and promoting healing – all while delivering significant cost and resource savings to care providers and the NHS

The paper, called Preventing Pressure Ulcers: The Role of Automatic Lateral Turning Systems for Innovative Approaches to Pressure Ulcer Prevention in Care

Homes examines and summarises a 12-week trial of the Levabo Turn All automatic lateral turning system (ALTS) developed in partnership with Algeos Ltd (UK)

The White Paper says that pressure ulcers are one of the most painful and preventable conditions faced by some of the most vulnerable individuals in adult social care

Care England, the voice of care, is a registered charity, is the leading representative body for small medium and large providers in England

The report stated pressure ulcers affect 700 000 people a year in the UK at a cost to the NHS of £1 4 to £2 1 billion a year

It added that the realities of staff shortages increasing demand and the need for manual repositioning often place an undue burden on both caregivers and residents so residents did not always receive the attention they needed to ease the pain caused by their ulcers

Furthermore, Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England said technological solutions like this would not only ease the workload of the caregiver but it would also offer a more dignified care solution to the individual as well as an improved quality of life”

The trial took place in three care homes in the UK and involved 24 residents across 12 weeks, addressing manual repositioning for pressure ulcer prevention using the Levabo Turn All solution which is an automatic tilting system (ALTS) that helps prevent and treat pressure ulcers by positioning a person in a 30-degree side position alternating between the right and left side The system can be used in any healthcare bed with a removable mattress where it is placed under the mattress

The trial focused on residents with dementia with multiple and complex comorbidities and those receiving palliative end-of-life care who are particularly vulnerable to pressure ulcers due to immobility and frailty

The primary aims were to assess the effectiveness of the system in reducing pressure ulcer incidence its impact on caregiver workload resident comfort and overall cost-effectiveness

During the trial the system was successful for residents with both dementia or dementia with challenging behaviours; existing pressure ulcers/vulnerable at-risk skin; limited or no mobility; pressure ulcer prevention and treatment; end of life/palliative care; critical illness and spinal/neurological conditions

Key findings from the trial included that using ALTS in a care setting has several key benefits particularly for residents at risk of developing pressure ulcers and those in end-of-life palliative care

The system was effective in preventing and managing pressure ulcers by automatically repositioning residents thus reducing prolonged pressure on vulnerable areas significantly lowering the risk of further breakdown of skin without unnecessarily disrupting residents leading to improved sleep and quality of care by automating the manual task of turning residents which can be every 4 to 6 hours, day and night requiring two caregivers time and effort to reposition The system freed up caregivers time to focus on other critical tasks and areas of care – often up to two hours a day per person

The White Paper also found that use of the system delivered cost savings in preventing the occurrence of pressure ulcers and the need to treat them

In addition residents using ALTS generally showed fewer signs of discomfort or agitation during repositioning an important factor for those with dementia The report stated for residents in palliative care ALTS provided a gentler less invasive approach to repositioning, supporting their comfort and dignity during end-of-life care

One of the homes taking part in the trial, the Taylor and Taylor group, said that each caregiver would save two hours a day through not having to manually turn an individual during a 24-hour period Given 11 people needing this facility that would save 22 hours a week which in monetary terms based on an average salary equates to circa £1 600 a week and roughly the same cost of one system itself

Professor Green said: “The trials have shown that a system of this type can in many cases provide big benefits in pain reduction and healing for the individual while easing the burden of care to the caregiver and doing so at a net saving of cost to the care provider or allowing them time to support other aspects of their care plan

“The trial has shown that once again technology can work hand-in-hand with excellent care provision to offer dignity pain reduction and enhanced healing to those most in need of it

Beth Mercer, Commercial Manager at Algeos Ltd (UK) said “The trials have shown exactly what we hoped – that the Levabo Turn All system not only makes life more bearable and dignified for the individual by reducing their risk of pressure damage, pain and discomfort; it eases the workload and burden of repositioning to staff freeing up time to focus on other aspects of care, and demonstrated time cost savings, and efficiencies thus providing benefits to caregiver and care receiver alike

Deangate Care Home’s Rachael Addy Has Been Named Community Hero

I

She said Never in a

years

I would be nominated for this award let alone get to the finals and then to win Not little old me Words can’t describe how I feel to have won the Proud of Barnsley Community Hero Award 2024

I am overwhelmed by the support from our local community, family, friends, colleagues, our residents’ families and most of all our fabulous residents at Deangate, who I have the privilege of working with every day If it wasn t for them I would not have been nominated as I do all these crazy but meaningful activities for them and the surrounding community members

“All of our residents have a special place in my heart and I m making it my mission to show as many people as possible how amazing they are Life shouldn t end when you enter a care home it s just the beginning And I will keep going to put them on the pedestal they all rightly deserve

“It has been an absolute honour to be nominated with so many amazing individuals that are wonderful in their own right Thank you again to everyone from

Rachael has worked at Deangate Care Home

2019 and has organised dozens of activities, events, and outings for elderly residents and the wider

Earlier this year she raised over £2 000 for the residents fund with a charity skydive, despite her fear of flying She also helps organise Love to Move exercise classes for residents and those living with dementia outside the care home becoming a certified deliverer for the British Gymnastics Foundation run programme

Rachael led Deangate Care Home s bid to for Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) status and recently launched a new Carers Café in partnership with Barnsley Carers Service to support those who dedicate their time looking after loved ones

Rachael Dawson home manager at Deangate Care Home, said “We are so proud of Rachael for winning the Community Hero award at this year s Proud of Barnsley awards

Rachael is such a hard worker and does so much for our residents and the wider community I can t think of anyone more deserving ”

‘Most Of The Care In Wales Is Good’

Care Inspectorate Wales

Most of the care in Wales is good care with almost three quarters of care homes and home support services achieving good or excellent grades last year, according to the care inspectorate for Wales

The Care Inspectorate for Wales (CIW) which published its annual report for 2023-24 today, revealed that 3,106 (74%) of the grades awarded to care homes and home services during 2023-2024 were grades of excellent or good and that 1 078 (26%) are grades ‘needs improvement’ or ‘poor’

Gillian Baranski Chief Inspector for Care Inspectorate Wales said in the report:

“Too often when children’s or adult social care services are in the spotlight they tend to be presented as broken services in need of fixing

“While we all recognise the many pressures on the system, we regularly see care at its best – transforming lives for the better

“Despite demand, we have a very dedicated workforce Not only that, but care and support can help to maintain people s relationships and connections with family and friends; support the economy; and enable parents and unpaid carers to go to work ” THE REPORT HIGHLIGHTS CROSS CUTTING ISSUES REQUIRING COLLECTIVE CONSIDERATION:

• Our inspections continue to show the crucial part leaders play in creating an environment in which people can thrive The better performing services tend to be those that support and inspire their team to do the

very best for the people in their care Our call to action is for ‘leaders at all levels in care services to be compassionate motivating and inspire their teams They should listen to staff and give them the tools and support they need

Judi Love Thanks Social Care Award

Winners for Their 'Truly Needed Work'

Celebrity comedian Judi presenter and Celebrity Bake Off Star currently panellist on TV s Loose Women - and with her new show Judi Love Culinary Cruise is a passionate advocate of social care and the 2024 Surrey Care Awards held by Surrey Care Association were delighted to have her host their awards event Settings working with non-verbal supported clients adults with learning difficulties and autism in day-care, 24-hour care and home from home settings were recognised at the 2024 Surrey Care Awards

Highlighting the breadth and depth of all those in adult social care do to enable people’s lives to be better despite funding challenges said Judi I can’t tell you how dear to my heart these awards are Thankyou to all of you – for the professionalism it takes as a team –your work is truly needed The awards saw some other amazing examples of the pioneering work happening in Surrey There were Care Worker of The Year accolades in a range of other areas including home care and nursing homes excellence in workforce innovation where different social care settings worked together to create apprenticeship programmesSettings working with non-verbal supported clients adults with learning difficulties and autism in day-care 24-hour care and home from home settings were recognised at the 2024 Surrey Care Awards The Special Recognition Award: Care Innovators: Dream Makers was awarded to Dayspace Millsted Care who run settings in Reigate and Caterham supporting adults with learning disabilities through daytime activities and events Said Hannah Millsted-Bowdery CEO: We re so proud of what we ve achieved On behalf of all our incredible staff and our amazing customers, thank you for this award ’ Described as a transformational couple Surrey based Shelia and David Wallond (right) achieved the Care Worker of the Year Award Home Care for opening up their own home to create a welcoming environment for adults with learning disabilities and complex needs

The awards saw some other amazing examples of the pioneering work happening in Surrey There were Care Worker of The Year accolades in a range of other areas including home care and nursing homes excellence in workforce innovation where different social care settings worked together to create apprenticeship programmes Said the Care Home of The Year Award winners Broadwater Lodge, Godalming, Surrey: ‘We were overjoyed at winning the award We will have our own celebration with teams and residents this Friday with yummy foods from around the world - all staff are going to attend so we can show them how fantastic and appreciated they truly are!’

Supported Living Provider of The Year winners Strada Care (left)

Making Care Possible’ as well a surprise special recognition award honouring the Outstanding Contribution to Care ’ that an individual had made Finalists whose work was enabling positive change for the people they serve including groundbreaking dementia care and nationally recognised palliative treatments were also celebrated Said Ann Essam, winner of the Unsung Hero Award:

‘When I heard my name being announced as the winner I was completely blown away I couldn t believe it To be acknowledged by the Surrey Care Awards in front of my peers for doing the job that I adore doing was amazing – it still hasn’t quite sunk in The residents are my friends - my family - so it’s not like working at all; I spend each day laughing and having fun with my friends To say that I feel honoured is an understatement Everyone who was nominated at the Surrey Care Awards not just in my award category but in each category were

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‘CPD Provider of the Year’ – The CPD Awards

Social Care Training

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Care England Urges Providers to Sign Petition to

Exempt Social Care from Employer NIC Increases

North London Care Home Raises Funds For Children In Need

“Need Anything From The Shop?”

Care Home Shares Simp le Questions That Might Save Someone’s Christmas

For millions of people around the UK Christmas is the perfect time to settle down and spend time with family and friends

With decorations abound and a wealth of festive events taking place in the run-up to the holiday it s sometimes difficult to remember that for some, Christmas isn’t the magical and idyllic holiday we see on cards and in films

However, for many others, the Christmas period often leads to increased feelings of isolation and loneliness - particularly for older people

Research commissioned by Age UK in 2018 found that half a million older people across the UK feel lonely at Christmas Of those people surveyed 4 in 5 (79%) did not plan on asking for help The report concluded that over half (52%) felt that loneliness has become a normal part of life

Further research by the charity found that 1 7 million older people in England can go for a month without meeting up with a friend and that 300 000 over 65s have not even had a conversation with family or friends in the same period

“Loneliness at Christmas is not a new phenomenon but it is one that we as a society struggle with every year says Dawn Collett Commissioning Director at Care Home Operator New Care Homes

As the Age UK report has previously shown loneliness at Christmas time is an ever-present challenge facing older people If the report was conducted again today It would likely tell a similarly concerning story and one that represents the reality that millions of elderly people will experience this year

Many often struggle to reach out and ask for help even if they need it On the other hand, many people across the UK have a strong desire to help others in their community - but they just aren t sure how

However, there are many things, both great and small, that can help Communication is key and sometimes making the first move to reach out and ask if someone needs help can make all the difference " Based on her experience Dawn shares some key tips on the key things people can do to help support older people who may be experiencing loneliness during the Christmas season

SEND HANDWRITTEN LETTERS OR CARDS

Sometimes building a connection doesn t have to be a grand gesture Small but thoughtful actions can be just as powerful and meaningful especially if someone is feeling overwhelmed by the season

Writing heartfelt Christmas cards or handwritten letters expressing your well wishes and thoughts can be incredibly meaningful It can also encourage those you re writing to to write back creating a wonderful connection and something personal to look forward to Keep Them Up To Date With Community Events

From Christmas light switch-ons and festive markets to craft workshops and pantos local communities across the country are putting on events to welcome in the season Keeping people up to date with what's going on in the community, and letting them know where to find news and events can provide a wealth of excitement to get involved

with For those who aren’t feeling Christmas this year there’s no shortage of alternative events to get involved with this time of year Lots of exciting films hit the cinema in December, theatres have a schedule of music programs and plays and museums and art exhibitions plan interesting exhibits for the end of the year as well GO ON A SHOPPING TRIP

Shopping in December can be chaotic at the best of times, but especially in the run-up to Christmas day For many it can often feel like an overwhelming experience, especially for those who are already feeling isolated during the season

If you think your neighbour may struggle with the hype and rush, offer to do a shopping run for them Help them make a list of non-perishables to fill their cupboards and create a schedule to help drop off fresh essentials if needed This can be done during your own shop making it an easy and simple way to provide support

DELIVER HOMEMADE TREATS

The run-up to Christmas is a great time to head to the kitchen to create endless plates of traditional treats There s nothing better than coming in from the cold to enjoy a plate of mince pies shortbread and gingerbread biscuits fresh from the oven - especially when paired with a nice cup of tea or a hot chocolate

If you love to cook or bake at Christmas, or try out the selections from your local bakery consider taking them round to your friends neighbours and older family members this Christmas It’s a great way to socialise enjoy a cup of tea together and help everyone feel connected during the season

INVITE THEM OVER FOR CHRISTMAS DINNER

Food brings people closer through shared experiences, and Christmas dinner is often the point in the day when friends and family come together to celebrate share stories and feel a sense of togetherness

Christmas is also associated with goodwill not only to family but to all those around us If you have space at your table, consider asking someone who may appreciate it Opening your home to someone who may need or benefit from it can be a great way to help alleviate feelings of loneliness this time of year OR OFFER TO MAKE THEM A PLATE

Some people may not celebrate Christmas or love the hustle and bustle that it brings with it While they may not be able to or feel comfortable joining the Christmas table offering them a plate of food can be a great alternative

If you re considering preparing a plate to take around check in beforehand to see what they like and if they have any allergies Even taking around a slice of Christmas cake or Christmas pudding can be a great way to help them feel thought of and appreciated GET THE DECORATIONS OUT

From putting up lights and tinsel to stockings and Christmas trees, putting up decorations is always a great way to countdown until the holidays However some people may need help to get their decorations out of storage or put them up around the house

If you have a friend neighbour or family member who is struggling to put up their decorations, offer to do it with them or for them Even if it s just getting decorations out of the loft or storage - every little helps The simple act of putting up decorations can be a huge mood boost, making a home feel more festive for those who celebrate the season HELP WITH HOUSEHOLD TASKS

With all the hustle and bustle preparing for the season some household tasks can often end up falling by the wayside as the excitement of the holiday sets in

The cold can also have a huge impact While things like taking the bins out or sweeping pathways of old leaves can often feel like an annoying job in the cold for others it can feel like a monumental task Check-in with friends neighbours and family members to see if there is anything they need a hand with Often just helping out with the small things can make the biggest difference

CHECK-IN REGULARLY

Winter can often leave anyone feeling isolated but it can definitely have an impact on those who are on their own or at risk of feeling isolated Sometimes just popping in to say hello is all that s needed for someone to feel connected to the people around them

If you can take some time to reach out to people around you be they friends neighbours or family members Pop in to see them or arrange a regular call to see how they are and if they need anything

Catch up on recent preparations or plans whether they celebrate the season or not Sometimes a hello can make all the difference

ASSIST WITH TECHNOLOGY

Sometimes someone may not be able to celebrate with family because they live in a different country or a different part of the UK But distance doesn’t mean they can’t stay in touch Technology can bring people closer during this key time of the year

While technology has never been more accessible it can sometimes be complicated to set up Check in over the holiday to make sure your friend neighbour or family member has everything they need Make sure the internet is working and that devices are connected and functioning properly Leave clear instructions just in case they get stuck and a way to contact you if needed

MAKE SURE THEY’RE WARM AND COMFORTABLE

Winter s on its way it’s likely that the temperature will drop below 10 C during November and won t be rising again for around three months The cold months are hard enough for anyone, especially during a cost of living crisis but for those more vulnerable the drop in temperature is a danger Reaching out and asking for help if there's an issue with the heating can be difficult This can happen to people of all ages who feel like they will become a burden for asking for help

If you know someone who might need a hand check in with them to see if their heating and electricity are working and/or topped up If they’re having issues and need help contacting suppliers offer to sit with them as they call or contact local charities like Age UK or Action for Elders who have resources that can help them talk to energy companies

SIGNPOST THEM TO RESOURCES

Many local charities and religious groups are keenly aware of the challenges that many people face around Christmas, and will often organise local events and drop-ins that can provide help support and resources to those who need them

For older people national charities like Age UK Rengage Friends of the Elderly and the Salvation Army can provide advice and support Local religious institutions from all walks of life also offer support and help to those who need it during the holiday season

If you think an individual could benefit from a bit of extra help, make a list of national and local charities what they do and how to contact them Provide contact details or offer to contact organisations on their behalf to find out more information on how they can help

Museum Of Somerset Outing Delights Care Home Residents

The Pobroll®: A Cost-Effective, Dignified, and Sustainable Solution for Care Homes

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

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

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

BOOSTING COST SAVINGS AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

The pobroll® s waterproof design enables caregivers to provide a complete wet wash without the risk of soaking the bed, minimising the need for frequent linen changes This leads to fewer laundry loads reducing labour and utility costs as well as wear on linens By reducing logistical tasks caregivers have more time to focus on direct resident care, enhancing productivity overall Additionally, reduced reliance on disposable wipes results in further cost savings and supports environmentally sustainable practices

With its durable reusable design the pobroll® maintains hygiene standards and allows for extended use across multiple residents As care homes face increased pressure to adopt sustainable practices the pobroll® provides an effective solution that supports both economic and environmental goals

REDUCING STAFFING COSTS AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Managing resident agitation particularly for those with dementia often requires specialised training in restraint techniques The pobroll® significantly reduces the need for physical intervention by providing a warm secure covering that alleviates resident distress This gentle approach minimizes aggressive or defensive reactions, reducing the number of staff needed for these interactions As a result facilities can potentially lower staffing levels without compromising care quality yielding substantial cost savings

Additionally, reduced dependence on physical intervention decreases training costs associated with restraint techniques By simplifying the process of intimate care the pobroll® reduces the need for specialised training making onboarding smoother and lowering turnoverrelated training expenses

ENHANCING SAFETY, COMPLIANCE, AND RESIDENT SATISFACTION

The pobroll® supports compliance with restraint reduction guidelines helping facilities minimise documentation burdens and regulatory liabilities linked to physical interventions This non-invasive solution

improves safety for both residents and caregivers fostering a culture of dignity and respect that boosts satisfaction among residents and their families

CONCLUSION: A VALUABLE ASSET FOR QUALITY CARE AND COST MANAGEMENT

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

WHO CREATED THE POBROLL®?

The pobroll® is the invention of Pat O Brien a physiotherapist Moving and Handling trainer and Conflict Management tutor with over two decades of experience in care homes and nursing homes Pat s focus has been on individuals who are frail, receiving end-of-life care, and often grappling with dementia-related challenges

Throughout her experience of working alongside carers in Nursing and Care homes Pat identified a common issue during personal care routines, particularly bed baths where individuals with dementia would frequently experience distress agitation and discomfort leading to compromised hygiene standards and heightened caregiver stress

Recognising the fundamental right to cleanliness and comfort Pat embarked on a mission to devise a solution that could mitigate these challenges and enhance the overall care experience for all concerned

The result is the pobroll®, hailed as a “game-changer” for those requiring care in bed

Selected as one of their 2023 Accelerator partners, the Alzheimer’s Society recognised the potential of the pobroll® to transform the bed bathing experience for individuals living with dementia and their families Pat is currently being supported by the Alzheimer s Society Innovation team as she moves forward with getting this new innovation to market

Royal Star & Garter Achieves Mod Employer Recognition Scheme

Zero Tolerance For Failure Under Package Of Tough NHS Reforms Unveiled

League tables revealing failing NHS trusts and cancelled pay rises or dismissal for managers who don’t turn things around are part of new plans to improve the health service

Health Secretary Wes Streeting is confirming new measures he hopes will boost failing hospital trusts and encourage successful ones plans include turnaround teams sent into struggling hospitals while best performers given greater freedoms over funding to modernise technology and equipment no more rewards for failure with reforms to ensure every penny of extra investment into NHS is well spent and waiting times for patients slashed

NHS league tables will be introduced to help tackle the NHS crisis and ensure there are no more rewards for failure as part of a tough package of reforms to be announced by the Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting

NHS England will carry out a no holds barred sweeping review of NHS performance across the entire country, with providers to be placed into a league table This will be made public and regularly updated to ensure leaders policy makers and patients know which improvements need to be prioritised

Persistently failing managers will be replaced and turnaround teams of expert leaders will be deployed to help providers which are running big deficits or poor services for patients offering them urgent effective support so they can improve their service

High-performing providers will be given greater freedom over funding and flexibility There is little incentive across the system to run budget surpluses as providers cannot benefit from it The reforms today will reward top-performing providers and give them more capital and greater control over where to invest it in modernising their buildings equipment and technology

The government will deliver a health service fit for the future, fixing the foundations while delivering change with investment and reform to deliver growth get the NHS back on its feet and rebuild Britain Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said: “The budget showed this government prioritises the NHS providing the investment needed to rebuild the health service Today we are announcing the reforms to make sure every penny of extra investment is well spent and cuts waiting times for patients ”

“There ll be no more turning a blind eye to failure We will drive the health service to improve so patients get more out of it for what taxpayers put in

“Our health service must attract top talent, be far more transparent to the public who pay for it and run as efficiently as global businesses

“With the combination of investment and reform, we will turn the NHS around and cut waiting times from 18 months to 18 weeks

Amanda Pritchard NHS Chief Executive said: “While NHS leaders welcome accountability it is critical that responsibility comes with the necessary support and development ”

The extensive package of reforms developed together with government will empower all leaders working in the NHS and it will give them the tools they need to provide the best possible services for our patients

Deep dives into poorly performing trusts will be carried out by the government and NHS England to identify the most pressing issues and how they can be resolved

Louise Ansari, Chief Executive of Healthwatch England said: “People value the hard work of NHS staff but it s frustrating when services fail to operate effectively So a fresh approach to improving NHS performance is welcome ”

Currently living in an area with either an outstanding or poorly performing NHS trust feels like a postcode lottery When a service is underperforming it often takes far too long for patients to see the necessary improvements ”

This is because the current system focuses on evaluating service performance based on the number of tasks it completes and it does not do enough to measure patients’ overall outcomes and experiences ”

Establishing a better system that encourages NHS managers to focus on delivering the best care as efficiently as possible, and leads to quicker changes at struggling trusts, would be good news for everyone ”

NHS senior managers who fail to make progress will also be ineligible for pay increases There will be financial implications for very senior managers (VSMs) such as chief executives if they are failing to improve their trust s performance or letting patients down with poor levels of care

A new pay framework for VSMs will be published before April 2025 Senior leaders who are successfully improving performance will be rewarded to ensure the NHS continues to develop and attract the best talent to the top positions

The changes are made in response to Lord Darzi’s investigation into the NHS which found that

The only criteria by which trust chief executive pay is set is the turnover of the organisation Neither the timeliness of access nor the quality of care are routinely factored into pay This encourages organisations to grow their revenue rather than to improve operational performance

The cost to the health service of hiring temporary workers sits at a staggering £3 billion a year Under joint plans to be put forward for consultation in the coming weeks NHS trusts could be banned from using agencies to hire temporary entry level workers in bands 2 and 3 such as healthcare assistants and domestic support workers The consultation will also include a proposal to stop NHS staff resigning and then immediately offering their services back to the health service through a recruitment agency

Lord Darzi’s investigation into the NHS found that hospital productivity has nosedived in the past 5 years During that time resources have increased by 20% but the number of patients treated has only increased by 3%

This comes a month after the Health and Social Care Secretary kicked off the biggest national conversation about the future of the NHS since its birth calling on the entire country to share their experiences of our health service and help shape the government’s 10 Year Health Plan

Members of the public as well as NHS staff and experts are sharing their experiences views and ideas for fixing the NHS via the Change NHS online platform, which will be live until the start of next year, and available via the NHS App

Thousands Of Young People Were Placed In Council Care More Than 20 Miles Away

From Their Home Last Year Report Reveals

A new report reveals that a third of vulnerable young people in council care last year had to be placed in accommodation miles from their home with local authorities warning far too many children are disconnected from their local community

The research from the County Councils Network (CCN) and IMPOWER finds that an increasing amount of young people who come into local authority care are being placed in children s residential homes due to demand outstripping supply and foster carer capacity flatlining Consequently more are having to be placed in homes far away from where they live

Launching the report to over 200 delegates at CCN’s Annual Conference the network s children s services spokesperson will tell delegates that this has an enormous cost for both young people and local taxpayers with residential placements the most expensive form of care He will say today s report should be ‘turning point’ for children’s services in England, and said the government’s commitment to reform in the Spending Review is welcome – but must be delivered within 12 months from next Spring

Since 2019 the number of children and young people placed in care has risen by 7% (5 690) However there has been a 45% increase in young people being cared for in children’s homes and supported accommodation an increase of over 4 500 individuals Councils spent £6 6bn on children in care last year and the report projects that local authorities will be spending almost double this amount – £12bn – in just six years time if nothing changes If this happens councils will have less funding to spend on preventative care services such as family support and children s centres, which they recognise is a ‘false economy’

Due to a chronic lack of availability in local areas and demand continuing to rise 32% of children in local authority care in 2023 lived in a residential or semi-independent homes over 20 miles from their local area school and family 4 600 young people in total This is an 18% increase since 2019

If nothing changes new analysis in the report finds that there could be a record number of young people placed in children s homes: over 22 500 individuals by the end of the decade which would be more than double the amount (10 000) in residential care in 2019

A survey for the report reveals that no local authority believes private residential placements are currently good value for money overall Due to a lack of availability and councils responding to a market often dominated by larger private providers, the average cost of providing a placement for a child in care is now £300 000 a year

In total the report projects that almost 10 000 more young people could end up in care by 2030 the total number topping 93 000 across England The study finds that education and employment outcomes for children entering care have not improved over the years despite expenditure increasingly dramatically

Despite the extreme pressures on their budgets, councils say that the ‘biggest losers’ from the current system are the young people who are finding themselves placed many miles from home at a time they are experiencing the trauma of being removed from their family ’ A child who comes into local authority care are those at the most serious risk of harm or neglect

The report also notes that due to a lack of available alternatives for young people other than children’s

residential homes and dysfunction within the care market many are placed in the wrong type of care for their needs

The CCN and IMPOWER recommend that the government invests £2 6bn into children s services as recommended by the 2022 Independent Review of Children s Social Care This will allow councils to invest in preventative services to keep more children with their families It also calls for a comprehensive review of foster carer recruitment and retention and long-term partnerships with care providers which share risk, skills and investment to deliver the right homes for children and young people s needs

The report calls for a requirement for all children and young people to be cared for within their local area or region with legislative support and a phased transition The implementation approach should be designed

alongside councils and providers to manage the transition over time

In addition, the report s survey found that 94% of councils believe that better co-ordination and planning for placements could help address cost challenges The report finds that the current system has favoured short-term ‘transactional interactions between councils and care providers rather than long-term commissioning alongside local partners such as health services The report recommends a number of measures to place children and young people s needs at the heart of care commissioning and planning

Cllr Roger Gough, Children’s Services Spokesperson for the County Councils Network, said “This report should act as a turning point for children s services in England It finds a system broken with councils in the false economy of increasingly paying astronomical sums for placements and less on preventative services But the biggest losers from the current system are young people themselves with far too many children being placed many miles from home at a time when they are experiencing the trauma of being removed from their family

If we carry on as we are currently almost 10 000 extra young people could end up in care by the end of the decade at an enormous cost for both young people and local taxpayers It will leave us locked into a vicious circle of higher spend and poorer outcomes

“The government’s commitment to reform is a step in the right direction, but change needs to come urgently and within 12 months of the Spending Review next year The government has promised to fix the foundations: it should start by fixing the foundations of children’s services ”

Dominic Luscombe Director at IMPOWER Consulting said The findings of this report highlight a system in desperate need of attention Fundamental change is needed to tackle this complex challenge and prevent further reductions in support for children and families as the costs of care continue to rise

Far too many children are in the wrong care for their needs because of the lack of available alternatives the dysfunctionality of the care market, and a system that can place too much focus on ‘risks’ rather than young people s needs and aspirations

Councils, providers and local partners must work differently to address this challenge, supported by legislative and regulatory change and the right investment from government

Northwich Care Home Set To Host Friendship Friday Initiative To Tackle Social Isolation in Winter Months Ahead

members of the local community to help tackle loneliness and social isolation which is a key focus for us at any time of the year but especially during the dark cold winter months

“Our Friendship Friday initiative taking place on every second Friday of the month will provide members of the local community to come into a friendly and welcoming environment for a cup of tea or coffee light snacks and a chat to build meaningful connections and friendships with each other ”

Two HC-One Care Homes In Cheshire Issue

Urgent Appeal For Winter Food Donations

Care UK Celebrates International Men's Day 2024

Care UK celebrated International Men’s Day on Tuesday 19th November by sharing the stories of inspirational, awardwinning colleagues from across their homes

From carers to chefs their colleagues work tirelessly to ensure residents live fulfilling lives – making invaluable contributions to the daily life and wellbeing of residents and going above and beyond in their roles Here are some of the inspiring stories of Care UK's award winners this year: Toby Sturgess from Lonsdale Mews, Quorn: Home manager who keeps things r unning smoothly

Toby won the Registered Manager of the Year award at this year s Leaders in Care Awards Toby is an inspirational manager who has an open-door attitude, which encourages and empowers the team at his home – they always feel supported, knowing that nothing is too big of an ask Toby also ensures that residents play an active part in decision-making at Lonsdale Mews – regarding both their own care and how the home is run This has led to some innovative collaborations with the community, including an art project with the local guide group whereby both the guides and the residents contributed and had their work displayed in the home s temporary art gallery Art in the Mews

Adriano Goncalves De Car valho from Newbur y Grove, Newbur y: Head chef who brings joy through food Adriano’s culinary creations have not only received praise from residents and relatives but have also earned him two awards - Chef of the Year at the Care Home Catering Awards and the same at the Berkshire Care Awards He is always keen to ensure that each meal is tailored to the dietary requirements of the

families to

Celebrating 280 Years of Marriage at Middleton Lodge Care Home

nature of lifelong companionship

They now reside in the care home s comfortable and spacious companion suites designed to allow elderly couples to remain together while receiving the care they require For many elderly couples the prospect of being separated due to health concerns or living arrangements can be daunting At Middleton Lodge Care Home, couples can rest easy knowing they won’t face that challenge

Mr and Mrs Littleford who moved to Middleton Lodge in September 2023 are celebrating 69 years of marriage They expressed their joy by sharing Living together here is a blessing We can still enjoy our days side by side We are delighted to be in our little nest, our beautiful bedroom "

Mr and Mrs Wade, who joined the Middleton Lodge community in April 2024 have been married for 64 years They added, "It’s comforting to know we’re not alone in this journey We have all the care that we need here

Mr and Mrs Tomlinson who arrived at Middleton Lodge in August 2024 proudly celebrate 75 years of marriage They reflected We ve built a life together and it s wonderful to continue that in such a lovely place Going through this transition together has made it much easier

Mr and Mrs Deacon, who became part of Middleton Lodge in June 2024 have shared 69 wonderful years of marriage They said “Our togetherness has made this transition so much smoother Every moment is precious to us and we’re grateful that we have each other through it all

Karuna Manor care home renowned for its culturally enriching environment marked the Festival of Lights with grandeur joy and community spirit The Diwali celebration held this year was a heartwarming event filled with vibrant activities, spiritual ceremonies, and music, bringing together residents, their families, and staff in a memorable festivity

The event began with a traditional Diwali Pooja led by residents, relatives and team members The beautifully decorated temple radiated tranquillity as everyone came together to offer prayers and seek blessings for health happiness and prosperity The spiritual significance of the ceremony was deeply felt by the attendees making it a cherished moment of connection and devotion

As the afternoon unfolded A live performance by a talented singer along with group singing by relatives and the team, added an uplifting rhythm to the celebration From timeless devotional songs to popular Bollywood melodies the performance enthralled everyone bringing smiles to every face Residents were seen clapping and singing along with some even taking to the dance floor to express their joy

The evening concluded with a spectacular display of fireworks in the gardens of Karuna Manor The colourful bursts of light illuminated the night sky leaving everyone in awe The visual spectacle brought the entire Karuna Manor family together in shared delight symbolising

Joanne Graves, Home Manager of Middleton Lodge Care Home shared her thoughts on the companion suites: “Our companion suites are designed to help couples stay together, creating a warm community where love and support flourish "If you’re considering care for couples we invite you to book a tour and see for yourself Our companion suites are also open to relatives and best friends as well so you can create lasting memories together in a place that feels like home ”

the victory of light over darkness and spreading the essence of Diwali

Mrs C P , a resident at Karuna Manor shared her thoughts on the celebration:

Diwali has always been special to me and Karuna Manor made it truly unforgettable this year The pooja brought a sense of peace and the fireworks reminded me of the times I celebrated with my family back home I feel so lucky to be a part of this warm and loving community

Mrs T S another resident added:

The music the prayers and the lights – everything was perfect I felt so connected to my roots and culture

The team at Karuna Manor made sure we never miss out on the joy of this beautiful festival

Payal Chhabra, Home Manager at Karuna Manor, expressed her pride in the event:

Our goal is to create a home away from home for our residents and celebrations like Diwali are an integral part of this mission Seeing the happiness on our residents’ faces makes it all worthwhile "

Care Services Manager Rian Era highlighted the community effort behind the success of the celebration:

Eighty Per Cent Of Unpaid Carers Consider Giving Up Their Jobs As Partnership Calls For More Employer Support

support from their employers, a new study has found

The figures have been revealed in a partnership between national charity Carers Trust healthcare company Simplyhealth and responsible business network Business in the Community Researchers spoke to carers employers and the public to uncover the employment challenges facing carers with a health condition and the help companies can provide to improve support

There are around six million unpaid carers in the UK looking after friends or family with a disability illness or addiction The 2021 England and Wales census found almost half of carers reported at least one adverse health effect from providing care This rose to three-quarters for those providing 20 to 49 hours of care per week

The research project s survey of carers with health conditions found four-fifths had considered quitting their job completely because of the difficulty balancing caring, their own health, and work Nearly nine in 10 (88%) had considered reducing their hours while just under two-thirds (64%) had thought about switching companies to one that was more flexible

Common reasons cited were that jobs were too target driven didn t offer flexible working or had an unsupportive and unaccepting company culture

Some carers with health needs also said they were concerned about disclosing too much information about their circumstance when applying or interviewing for a role through fear of being rejected for the job Access to external counselling or mental health support through an employee assistance programme was highlighted by 86% of carers as important to help them balance caring health and work

The survey also showed 60% of carers said they weren’t supported by their employer’s HR department to implement measures that helped them balance their job health and caring role

Even where supportive policies were in place like paid carers leave some carers said they feared being judged or facing repercussions for taking it while others said having to clear it with managers in advance caused challenges

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Hospital Admissions For Strokes

Rise By 28% Since 2004 – As NHS Urges The Public To ‘Act FAST’

The number of people being admitted to hospital following a stroke has risen by 28% in the last 20 years new NHS analysis has found

NHS England data shows an increase to 111 137 stroke admissions in England in 2023/24 – from 87 069 in 2004/05 – driven in part by an ageing population and the impacts of lifestyle factors on the nation’s cardiovascular health

There has also been a 55% rise in admissions among people aged 50-59 (8 063 in 2004/05 vs 12 533 in 2023/24) – the highest increase among any age group This is compared to a 42% increase for those aged 60-69 and a 25% rise for ages 70-79

The figures come as the NHS launched a major campaign, urging the public to call 999 immediately if anyone experiences one of the 3 most common symptoms of strokes including struggling to smile (Face) or raise an arm (Arms), or slurring their words (Speech)

England s top doctor said the figures show that strokes are not just a risk for older people and that it s vital that everyone is aware of the symptoms to look out for and knows to dial 999 quickly

Experts say the increase in admissions among ages 50-59 may be associated with a number of factors including better detection and reporting hypertension obesity poor diet and lack of exercise

The new NHS ‘Act FAST campaign launched this week with an advert showing these 3 symptoms – a man recognising his partner is struggling to smile while watching TV a decorator suddenly unable to lift their paint roller, and a grandmother struggling to read their grandchild a bedtime story – which will run across TV TV on demand and radio in England until mid-December

As part of the campaign launch a powerful new film has also been released which features stroke survivors listening back to audio recordings of the actual 999 calls that saved their lives

With 38 000 stroke-related deaths each year it is the fourth single leading cause of death in the UK –though more people survive them than ever, thanks to developments in NHS care

Dr David Hargroves NHS National Clinical Director for Stroke and Consultant Stroke Physician said: The

significant rise in people across all age groups experiencing a stroke is worrying and highlights the importance of our new NHS campaign to urge the public that while the first sign of a stroke might not seem like much face or arm or speech at the first sign it s time to call 999

“Thanks to greater awareness of the symptoms and advances in NHS care more people are now surviving a stroke than ever before but there is much more to do help save lives and reduce their long-term impact Acting FAST remains vital – whether it is a friend loved one or even a passer-by dialling 999 quickly saves lives ”

Juliet Bouverie OBE Chief Executive Officer at the Stroke Association said: These new figures support our own research that there’s been a steep rise in the number of people affected by stroke over the last 20 years particularly among those of working age The Stroke Association helps people with life after stroke and these increases highlight how our specialist teams are needed now more than ever ”

Acting FAST is vital for stroke survival to minimise the level of disability a person may experience and to help improve their journey to recovery So we continue to encourage anyone who spots any of the 3 common signs of a stroke in someone to call 999 without delay The quicker many stroke treatments are given the better chance for a full recovery

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said: “These figures are shocking, and even more so given the causes of stroke are largely preventable such as high blood pressure and a poor diet

“Prevention will always be better than cure Not only because it means helping people to live well for longer but also because a healthy workforce supports our growth mission too That s why we ve introduced health checks in workplaces and blood pressure checks on high streets to help catch illness earlier and we’re also acting to prevent strokes in the first place by tackling the biggest killers such as smoking and obesity

“We will deliver the investment and reform needed to turn the NHS around, which includes shifting the focus of healthcare from treatment to prevention as part of our 10 Year Health Plan

Olwen, 98, Meets Singing Stars Il Divo on

‘Wish Come True’ Night Out

and Olwen s daughter Jennifer arrived at the BIC, they were invited to meet all four members of Il Divo before the show Olwen was delighted as French tenor Sébastien Izambard Swiss tenor Urs Bühler American baritone Steven LaBrie and American tenor David Miller gathered around her Dressed in their trademark Giorgio Armani suits they were happy to chat and pose for a photo before going on stage

Olwen said: This was such a surprise I am so happy they are good looking and have wonderful voices

In a thank-you

Eileen’s 103 Birthday Wish Comes True

With Ballet Performances In Her Care Home

Bramwell Care Home Celebrates

Prestigious Proud To Care Award Win

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Athena Care Homes Supports Local Business With Dramatherapy Initiative

Athena Care Homes has partnered with local dramatherapist Ben Martin to bring a new and innovative therapy to residents of Goodwins Hall in King s Lynn By supporting Ben s dramatherapy business Athena Care Homes is not only enhancing the wellbeing of its residents but also helping a local venture to grow and succeed

Ben whose training includes a Master s degree from Anglia Ruskin University, has recently started his own dramatherapy practice While he has experience working with children young adults and special needs groups, his partnership with Athena Care Homes marks the first time he s brought his skills to the older adult community

Thanks to the support and advice from Athena Ben is able to expand his services starting with a pilot project at Goodwins Hall

This partnership is a fantastic opportunity for me to bring dramatherapy to a new audience " says Ben "Athena Care Homes’ support has been crucial in helping me get my business into care homes and I’m excited to work with older people and see how this can grow "

Athena Care Homes is committed to supporting local businesses bringing value to residents at the same time By collaborating with Ben, they are helping to establish a unique and client-led form of therapy that blends play storytelling and creativity Dramatherapy offers an engaging and therapeutic way for residents to express themselves connect with others and enjoy a sense of community

The pilot project has already seen success, with residents enthusiastically participating in dramatherapy sessions They are now busy preparing a Christmas puppet show to showcase their creativity at the party in December an exciting event made possible through this new collaboration Ben’s venture is still in its early stages but with Athena Care Homes’

backing

and explore their imaginations

Benefits of dramatherapy for care home residents

Enhanced social interaction: Dramatherapy encourages residents to work together fostering a sense of community and helping to reduce

feelings of loneliness and isolation

Emotional expression: Through role play, storytelling, and creative activities residents can express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment

• Mental stimulation: Engaging in imaginative play storytelling and group discussions helps keep the mind active improving cognitive function and memory

Increased confidence and self-esteem: Taking on different characters and leading parts of a session can help residents build confidence and a sense of accomplishment

Creative outlet: Dramatherapy provides a way for residents to channel their creativity whether through puppetry acting or crafting stories allowing them to explore new forms of self-expression

• Improved communication skills: Participating in group activities encourages residents to articulate their thoughts and feelings improving both verbal and non-verbal communication

Physical engagement: Activities involving movement such as acting out scenes or manipulating puppets, can help residents stay physically active which is beneficial for overall health

Stress relief and relaxation The playful and expressive nature of dramatherapy helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation offering a therapeutic escape from daily worries

Opportunity for reminiscence: Storytelling and role play can prompt residents to recall and share memories helping to connect with their past and engage in meaningful reflection

Flexibility and personalisation: Sessions can be tailored to the needs and interests of each resident ensuring that everyone can participate at their own comfort level and pace

Christmas Comes Early As Northampton

Home Raises More Than £650 Thanks To Fair

“I

“We

“There were eight stalls in total Santas grotto as well as live entertainment by Katie Rose who sang traditional Christmas songs to keep us entertained

We received some amazing feedback from residents and their family members

It was a intergenerational fair and we had plenty of attendees both young and old

It was a real team effort we all got stuck in colleagues came in on their days off, manned the stalls and made sure everything went well

“To raise the amount we did was fantastic and it now depends on what the residents want to do with the funds I want to thank everyone who got involved and came and made the fair the success

BCG Nurse Crowned Scottish Care’s Nurse Of The Year

A Scottish care provider is celebrating as one of their nurses has been recognised at a prestigious awards ceremony for the outstanding standard of care she provides Jade Scott Clinical Deputy Home Manager at Wheatlands care home in Bonnybridge faced tough competition to take home the award for Nurse of the Year at Scottish Care s 2024 National Awards ceremony

The awards are widely recognised as a benchmark of progress within the care sector honouring the dedication and hard work of care providers and the individuals and teams within them, all over Scotland

A true journeywoman in care Jade qualified as a nurse in July 2023 having worked with BCG since 2014 initially as a carer then senior carer before taking a short employment break in

Watford Care Home Residents Celebrate

69 Years Of Wedded Bliss

A local couple have celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary with the help of staff and fellow residents at RMBI Care Co Home Prince Michael of Kent Court in Watford Care home residents Tony and Pamela Brett, both 92 years old, were married in 1955 in a church in Harrow London where they lived at the time They met at a local dance at Wembley Town

“It was an honour to help Tony and Pamela celebrate their 69 years of marriage To stick together through thick and thin for so many years is an amazing feat

They’re an inspiration!”

Meet Matt Fletcher: Carer and Lifestyles Coordinator at Aria Court

he found himself looking for work close to home and that’s when a vacancy at Aria Court came up

“At first, I was a bit apprehensive,” Matt admits “I wasn’t sure if I could do it ” But two years in Matt has found his stride The combination of care work and organising activi-

ties has been the perfect fit

He enjoys taking residents on trips, has become expert in playing games like dominoes, and loves taking part in musical activities an area where he shines thanks to his love of playing guitar and attending concerts in his free time

I like coming to work Matt says It s a rewarding job and it s great to see the changes you can make to people’s lives You might not think care is for you but you never know until you try it I m glad I did ”

Home Manager Jo Monaghan couldn’t be prouder of Matt’s progress “Matt is a wellliked member of the team and is a reliable hardworking young man We are lucky to have him as part of the family here at Aria Court she said

Matt s journey shows that sometimes good opportunities come when you least expect them For now, he’s happy where he is, helping make a difference each day, surrounded by a supportive team And the future? “Let s see ” he says with a smile

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Christmas Shines At Surrey Care Home As Residents

On 7th November whilst the tectonic political plates were shifting here and in the USA another event of national significance was happening – launch of the UK’s first national urgent acute medical service by pioneering digital health company Virtue We re pleased to provide a sneak preview of their launch, which will be covered by national press in January explaining what this means for your patients, together with your businesses, both of which stand to benefit by this transformational service that brings together acute and social care in a novel way

For the first time in the history the people of Great Britain can access urgent acute medical treatment nationally by an organisation other than the NHS Not only this, but care can be received instantly, in the comfort and convenience of home simply by calling Virtue This offers patients an alternative to attending NHS A&E or suffering the impact of a hospital admission

This appears a momentous step change in the evolution of our national healthcare infrastructure which could be a vital component in ensuring members of the public can access acute care quickly in spite of the rising pressures on the NHS system

For just £14 99 per month, anyone over the age of 18 can become a Virtue Member Virtue Members receive a Welcome Pack which includes a range of smart medical devices that enable Virtue s remote team of nurses and consultant specialists, to respond to an urgent medical need immediately Their clinical team then monitor the patient prescribe medication and even provide online physiotherapy to support holistic and faster recovery Where needed Virtue also provide IV antibiotics in the home Virtue call it ‘Acute Hospital-at-Home’ also coined ‘virtual ward

Before you think it s too good to be true Virtue do also charge a fee of £125 per night for treatment which given the average length of stay’ of 7 nights can add up to £875 So overall, it s not cheap So is it worth it?

We asked Dr Andrew Barlow, Chief Medical Officer of Virtue, his view and justification for the cost Dr Barlow who is recognised by NHS England as founder of the first NHS Covid virtual ward explains, a hospital admission is a catastrophic life event especially for someone over the age of 70 Patients are suffering from a serious often life-threatening medical situation which is made more traumatic by separation from their family familiar environment and care team Patients are at risk of acquiring infections, which during the pandemic caused one third of covid cases Perhaps worse of all is the hospitalacquired degeneration’, which research shows to leave patients with an average 50% loss of functional ability Patients leave hospital a shadow of their former self and at that age they just don’t recover This often means patients

Blandford Grange Care Home Welcomes New Manager

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Embrace Winter Menu Tasting Experience

As part of CHD

Walcot Hall Team Member Donates Hair To Charity

Hall or you can donate via The Little Princess Trust website Walcot Hall would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has already donated and encourages anyone else who wishes to do so to drop by and contribute to this wonderful cause

King's Court Resident Gaynor Relives Her Days As A Rally Queen

York Care Home Plans to Give Residents the Full ‘Christmas Market’ Experience

Children from Dunky’s Great Sankey Visit Local

Jubilee Court Residents Knit Hope for T iny Patients at City Hospital

With this year s World Kindness Day focusing on wellbeing Elizabeth Anderson a resident at The Lawn the Alton-based residential care home run by charity Friends of the Elderly has been sharing her love of her favourite things which keep her happy content and healthy

Elizabeth, who has been a resident at The Lawn for nine months, was born in London but during World War II moved to Woking in Surrey We lived in a lovely cottage with a large back garden ” Elizabeth recalled “My Mother was always out there; she loved the garden and grew lots of fresh vegetables for us to eat She definitely had green fingers

Elizabeth attended a boarding school which was specifically for children who had sadly lost their Fathers in the War I really didn t like school Elizabeth continued “My Sister enjoyed it but I only enjoyed the French Lessons as I was rather good at it ” When Elizabeth left school she enrolled in nursing school and made a very good friend, Janet After qualifying, Elizabeth worked as a Nurse for four years before becoming a Private Nanny I loved being a Nurse and caring for others and I loved children so working as a Private Nanny was wonderful ” said Elizabeth “After being a Private Nanny for many years I merged my nursing and nannying skills and took on a role as a Matron and Housekeeper at a school It s important choose a job that you like and that makes you happy – and that’s what I did ” It was at this time Elizabeth met her future Husband Alan I met Alan when I was 41 He came into the School I was working at to fix something or other and I offered him a cup of coffee continued Elizabeth We got chatting and he asked me out That was on the 29th

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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 healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) are a priority for healthcare providers and who are employing a combination of infection prevention and control strategies including hand hygiene cleaning training and the adoption of new technologies to tackle the problem

As a result, a wide range of infection control products and technologies are emerging on the market including antimicrobial technology Angloplas’ range

of dispensers are produced in the world s first proven Antimicrobial PVC with silver ion technology and which is exclusive to Angloplas This helps reduce the risk of cross infection by stopping the growth of bacteria and mould and works continuously for the lifetime of the product reducing levels of bacteria such as MRSA

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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

NCCO International announces the launch of Task Manager an innovative food safety task management and temperature monitoring solution designed for the senior living and residential care home sector Task Manager addresses critical pain points in food safety compliance operational efficiency and resident satisfaction

Task Manager is a game-changer for the senior living industry said Karl Rose Managing Director of NCCO International, "Our system not only ensures compliance with food safety regulations but also enhances the quality of life for residents by guaranteeing safe and nutritious meals

Task Manager assists senior care facilities in adhering to local state, and federal food safety regulations aiming to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses among elderly residents By providing detailed record-keeping and log management Task Manager supports facilities in maintaining audit readiness facilitating health inspections and compliance checks

Task Manager automates temperature monitoring for refrigerators freezers and food storage areas to help maintain safe limits without manual checks The system organizes food safety-related tasks, such as

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DARE TO IMAGINE Resource Inspires Sensor y Session at Park Avenue Care Home

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forms developed during the four-year residency program which involved four independent arts organisations hosting unique experiences at four of our care homes based in Essex The project aimed to build relationships between artists and the people who live and work in our homes through participation in creative arts and to increase the understanding and potential of embedding creativity in care homes

Based on insights gained from the residency term a creativity guide called DARE TO IMAGINE was created to help inspire care homes across the country to introduce creative art forms the four-year residency program After reading the resource and taking inspiration from the variety of creative arts forms showcased Park Avenue’s Lifestyle Coordinator Sukhy put what she had read into practice to host a sensory session with the people who live there

Part of the DARE TO IMAGINE resource is about creating sensory spaces where participants can have tranquil or exciting experiences So Sukhy transformed the salon inside the care home using decorations colourful lighting scented oils and objects people could touch This completely changed a once familiar space, creating a new and exciting environment for the activity

After inviting people into the space they thought it was new room with one person saying ‘I haven’t seen this room before’ – showcasing Sukhy’s transformation

After taking a seat the people who live at Park Avenue began to notice the scents in the air and the different types of lighting that were placed around the room

Sukhy and Linda a volunteer who supports the team at Park Avenue then began to lead people into different sensory experiences Linda encouraged people to close their eyes and gave them a hand massage while Sukhy encouraged people to feel the different objects placed around the room and observe the unique forms of lighting

The last part of the session was guided meditation with gentle music playing in the background People were encouraged to close their eyes think of their favourite place and let the scents and sounds of the room transport them there

After the session people were asked to share their experiences and how the session made them feel Margaret commented “I feel relaxed and my mind feels clearer ” whilst Alex said “I enjoyed the hand massage and looking at the star lights in the ceiling ”

The comments from the people who took part was very positive with each person highlighting a different aspect of the multisensory session

The DARE TO IMAGINE resource and findings from the Artist Residency Program in collaboration with Anglia Ruskin University and funded by Paul Hamlyn Foundation, was instrumental in making this experience for a people a success

Sukhy enjoyed seeing the joy this session brought to people and will be hosting more engaging experiences using learnings from the DARE TO IMAGINE resource

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Effective Leaders are Responsible Managers:

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The Power Of Diplomas In Health And Social Care

Diplomas have the potential to empower individuals and are the best route for most health and social care professionals to progress according to an expert at leading training provider Realise

Lesley O Connor Head of Health and Social Care at Realise said diplomas are a strong option as they are flexible, can usually be fully funded and can be tailored to the particular needs of the employer and the learner

Diplomas are also attractive to employers as they require little administration

Lesley said I think there is still a lack of awareness and some misconceptions around diplomas Sometimes people believe apprenticeships are their only option and they don t realise diplomas are available under funded provision for those who are eligible

“Some employers also mistakenly believe that diplomas are completed entirely online but in fact they are very hands-on and practical This approach helps learners apply theoretical knowledge directly to real-world scenarios, which is a major advantage

“Our diplomas are recognised and trusted by employers in the health and social care sector They meet national standards which means learners hold a qualification that is valued and trusted

“If a candidate does not meet the eligibility criteria for a diploma then alternative routes will need to be explored Otherwise I would nearly always recommend a diploma as a fantastic way to expand knowledge and skills ”

Under the Adult Skills Fund diplomas are usually fully funded for anyone aged 19 and over, as long as they have lived in the UK for three years There are some other eligibility requirements in devolved areas – and in some areas workers from overseas can start a diploma as soon as they arrive in the country under a Health and Care Worker visa

Policies and Procedures Within Social Care

The delivery of safe care is the paramount responsibility of social care providers Central to achieving this is the governance framework adopted by service providers And at the core of this framework are policies and

well as informing them of best practices and processes to be followed

Policies should be reviewed annually as a minimum to ensure they are still fit for purpose and align with legal and regulatory requirements They should be reviewed not only by employees of the business, but also by experts in various subject matters (e g infection control or medicines management) For many small- to medium-sized providers there may not be the in-house skills knowledge and

T: 01904 492 442 www.securicare.com

Learners can also qualify for funded diplomas if they earn below the low wage threshold which varies from area to area The thresholds have recently been raised in various authorities to £35 000 a year in Liverpool for example and £27 500 a year in West Yorkshire Realise offers Level 2 diplomas in all non-devolved regions for England and Liverpool City Region

The provider also offers Level 3 diplomas in West Yorkshire, Liverpool City Region and West Midlands A Level 2 or 3 diploma is equivalent to achieving GCSE grades 9, 8 7, 6, 5, or 4 previously graded A A B

experience to complete such a robust annual review Many choose instead to purchase their policies and procedures from a reputable provider like W&P Compliance & Training who will also complete reviews and ensure their policies and procedures remain up to date

This way a provider not only ensures they remain compliant; they also benefit from best practice policies and procedures that provide a solid foundation for safe working practices and – ultimately – protect and support service users and staff

Managing Cyberattacks in Residential Care

By Daniel O ’Shaughnessy, Programme Manager - Better Security, Better Care, Digital Care Hub

In an era where healthcare data is one of the most soughtafter digital assets, care homes, nursing facilities and NHS establishments are increasingly at risk of cyberattacks With the sensitive and life-critical data they handle daily, a breach can have devastating consequences not only for the facilities but also for the people they support

But there are steps that you can take to reduce the risk and impact of a successful attack and to respond quickly if an attack occurs

It is absolutely critical to have a business continuity plan which covers what you will do if digital systems are out of order Digital Care Hub’s business continuity guide and template plan says:

Don’t assume you will be back to normal in a few days – plan for longer periods of time

Test your plan

This is crucial as there is no real way of knowing your plan works if you don’t test it

Consider vulnerabilities specific to your business type and structure Make sure these are included in your plan

Ensure you have a data security protection lead in place – this doesn’t have to be a specific job title It can be a responsibility of an existing employee

During a live attack care providers should: Look at your security software to see if you are able to identify the specifics of the attack If you are unable to do this (but you know which device has been affected) run your antivirus programme If nothing is found consider using an alternative antivirus programme

• Do not turn off your computer Log-off (not shutdown) the computer and ensure no-one uses it Quarantine the computer by removing the network

cable or put it in ‘airplane mode’ Secure any memory discs/CDs/DVDs or other media connected to the computer Check who else has been affected speak to your software supplier(s) to find out whether they are reporting similar incidents

During the recovery phase you should Follow your business continuity plan Ensure you always have access to a grabbag’ of key documents necessary to respond to an incident Work with your IT suppliers and IT support to identify the nature and scale of the issues I Recover hacked accounts Check suppliers websites for details on how to recover hacked online email social media or bank accounts Check your own email account to see if forwarding rules have been set up by hackers Change passwords Log all devices and apps out Set up multi-factor authentication, and update software

Check cyber security consultants credentials If you’re going to use a consultant make sure they are reputable and meet your needs View the National Cyber Security Centre assured services

The guide also includes two downloadable resources: How to spot a cyber attack: A checklist to help care and administrative staff to recognise if a cyber incident is happening Cyber security incidents A downloadable form to help data security and protection leads to gather vital information Visit www digitalcarehub co uk/cyber-security

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