01
20/12/13
11:18
Page 1
January 2014
incorporating
no.212 • £4.75
The Number One magazine for the care sector
CQC launches first review of dementia By Dominic Musgrave THE inspectorate is to carry out focused inspections of approximately 150 care homes and acute hospitals to review how people with dementia are cared for in England. CQC will explore the care and support that these services provide for people with dementia and in doing so, draw common themes on what works well and what needs to improve on a national level. The announcement came as the Government hosted a G8 summit on developing coordinated global action to prevent, delay and effectively treat the condition. CQC chief executive David Behan said: “670,000 people in England are estimated to have dementia and the number is expected to double over the next three decades. “We know that these people are often vulnerable because of their condition and can rely on a number of services across health and social care to support their physical, mental and social wellbeing. “There is a real need to explore why people with dementia may not be receiving high quality care, as well as how the different services work together. “This is the first time that CQC has undertaken a review, which
specifically looks at the care services that people with dementia use and rely on. It will address the key issues that these people face, such as why admissions to hospital from care homes are higher for people who have dementia compared to those who do not have the condition. “Our findings will draw conclusions on a national scale about what works well and where improvements are required.” The unannounced inspections will focus on: How people living with dementia are supported to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing. How effective care can reduce admissions to hospital from care homes and avoid unnecessarily lengthy stays. How care services can work together when there is a need for people to move between services. For every service inspected, CQC will publish a report detailing its judgments and any required improvements. As well as this, CQC will publish a national report in May, which will highlight the key themes on a national level. CQC wants to hear from people with dementia, or the relatives and friends of people with dementia, and their carers about their experiences.
Care head talks with business secretary
Darts legend Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor returned to his roots to officially open a new care home in Stoke-onTrent. The 16 times world champion cut the ribbon at Safe Harbor’s Agnes and Arthur Care Home, a former council run facility which has been renamed and fully refurbished by its new owners. The home has created 40 new jobs in the city and now boasts its own hairdressers and passenger lift, as well as new laundry and kitchen facilities. The owners are also aiming to reduce its carbon footprint by using wood free paper, installing LED lighting, moving from gas to biomass and also installing solar panels.
A SENIOR regional care representative met with a top government minister to call for more to be done to support the sector. Mike Padgham talked with business secretary Vince Cable about how the Government could provide greater support to businesses and organisations caring for older and vulnerable people. Mike, who is chair of the Independent Care Group (York and North Yorkshire), said: “Greater support for social care is vital for the rapidly growing number of people who need it to live a full and active life and vital for the massive contribution it makes to the UK economy,” he said. “Investment in social care is an investment in people – people who need care and people who provide care.” He added that greater support for social care businesses could start with addressing the VAT anomaly – the situation where care providers are charged VAT but cannot reclaim it.
02 advanced healthcare
18/12/13
16:06
Page 1
03
18/12/13
15:55
Page 1
3
CARINGNEWS
Home’s residents evacuated during coast storm surge By Dominic Musgrave THE spirit of the blitz and a text book crisis plan swung into operation at Stradbroke Court in Lowestoft when the recent storms led to police informing staff that the home’s 30 residents needed to be evacuated. The care home is in the Pakefield area of the town, about a mile from the sea. Chris Hopkinson, regional operations Director at Care UK, said: “My colleagues did absolutely brilliantly and stayed all night to help. “The managers at Stradbroke Court, and two other local care homes, Blyford and The Dell, quickly coordinated arrangements for transport and all the support they needed. “Even carers who were off duty came in to help. There was a great spirit, with all the residents wanting to stay together and we were grateful for support from family members and Suffolk County Council.” In total a team of 16 Care UK colleagues, supported by volunteers from family and friends, helped move 29 residents to The Dell in Beccles and one resident, who was bed bound, was transported by ambulance to Blyford residential
home in Lowestoft. Stradbroke Court’s pet guinea-pigs, as well as the home’s four budgerigars, were also safely evacuated to carers’ homes. Chris added: “All the residents had a settled and comfortable night in their temporary home despite the awful weather going on around them.” Lowestoft’s Contract Cars taxi firm also stepped in to help with the evacuation effort. Richard Keeble, who owns the business and already works with Care UK providing transport to day care customers of the Blyford wellbeing centre, quickly responded with transport, providing two mini buses and a taxi to transport residents and carers on the 20 minute journey to Beccles. Nicki Fountain, manager at Stradbroke Court, said: “Everything was so calm and went so smoothly and all the Care UK teams in Lowestoft and Beccles worked together so well, with those who weren’t on shift coming in to help and using their own cars to bring the residents’ belongings along to The Dell, where the kitchen team came in and arranged extra catering.” Residents were able to return to Stradbroke Court the next day after the Environment Agency gave the all clear.
www.caring-uk.co.uk Advertising Sales and Marketing Director: Tony Barry Tel: 01226 734605 Email: tb@scriptmedia.co.uk National Sales Executive: Danielle Hornby Tel: 01226 734480 Email: danielleh@scriptmedia.co.uk National Sales Executive: Mandy Edwards Tel: 01226 734692 Email: mandye@caring-uk.co.uk Fax: 01226 734477
Publishers Script Media. 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS. Email: info@caring-uk.co.uk
Editorial Group Editor: Judith Halkerston Tel: 01226 734639 jh@scriptmedia.co.uk Healthcare Editor: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 734407 dm@scriptmedia.co.uk Reporter: Christina Eccles Tel: 01226 734463
West Hall residents, staff and local families and school children enjoyed Christmas celebrations at the Anchor care home in West Byfleet as it hosted its Winter Wonderland event. Children met Santa in his grotto, petted reindeer and listened to story time with elves in the library. The Anchor Community Band sang carols in the bistro, while children made mince pies and stalls sold Christmas gifts, wreaths and jewellery. Elf Shelina Duke is pictured helping Jenna Johal at West Hall’s Winter Wonderland.
Studio Manager: Stewart Holt Tel: 01226 734414 sth@scriptmedia.co.uk Database enquiries to: 01226 734695 E-mail: circulation@ scriptmedia.co.uk Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publishers do not accept liability for error, printed or otherwise, that may occur. Follow us on Twitter @caringuk
04
20/12/13
4
12:41
Page 1
CARINGNEWS
A resident is shown how to work an iPad by an M&S representative.
M&S works with operator to get residents online By Dominic Musgrave
MARKS & Spencer has joined forces with Abbeyfield to create a new volunteering initiative called ‘A Cup of IT’. Designed to help care home residents to enjoy the social benefits of going online, A Cup of IT saw 70 IT experts from M&S and its suppliers mentor 200 residents from 24 Abbeyfield care homes. The volunteers helped residents research old stories, relive favourite sporting moments, reconnect with friends and families and view images of memorable places from their past using platforms like Google Maps, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. To promote digital inclusion once the volunteers have left, re-furbished laptops and WiFi access cards were donated to Abbeyfield by M&S. Paul Allen, CEO of Abbeyfield, said: “The world the internet opens is a thrilling and exciting one although the opportunities it offers to older people are often overlooked. It is
fantastic that such a well known and respected company as Marks & Spencer has recognised that and been willing to join us in opening up the world of the internet to so many of the older people who choose to live with us. “The opportunities this presents are almost without measure – from recapturing memories of places visited and people met, to connecting with family and friends around the world. “On behalf of the Abbeyfield team and the residents, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Marks & Spencer for choosing to work with us on this project.“ The 24 Abbeyfield care homes taking part in A Cup of IT include sites in Beaconsfield, Maidstone, Wimbledon, Gravesend, Sutton, Chadwell Heath and Crouch End. A Cup of IT is part of a wider Plan A volunteering initiative that saw a 600 strong force of M&S IT executives and M&S suppliers help local community projects.
05 VAX
19/12/13
14:51
Page 1
06 just imagine
19/12/13
14:54
Page 1
07
18/12/13
16:29
Page 1
7
CARINGNEWS
Care group helps to lead reduction in medication A CARE group is spelling out the benefits of reducing the use of anti-psychotic medication used to treat people with dementia. Springhill Care Group, with homes in Accrington, Skelmersdale and Bristol, is committed to supporting the government initiative to reduce the use of this medication. Anti-psychotic drugs are inappropriately prescribed to an average of 144,000 people with dementia in the UK every year, doubling the risk of death, trebling the risk of stroke and sometimes leaving people unable to walk or talk, according to the Alzheimer’s Society. The government drive is supported by the Alzheimer’s Society and the Dementia Action Alliance, of which Springhill Care Group is a member. Group chairman Ken Nolan said: “We are progressing with our own programme in reducing the use of anti-psychotic medication wherever appropriate as well as supporting the government initiative. “As a group, we passionately believe in putting people and their needs at the forefront of what we do, and this is all part of that commitment.” The group’s Birch Green Care Home,
Mary Warren with Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling Howard Rogers. Ken Nolan Skelmersdale, is also taking part in a new national initiative being conducted by The Association for Dementia Studies to reduce the use of anti-psychotics, the Focused Intervention Training and Support initiative, commissioned by The Alzheimer’s Society and the University of Worcester. The Government has commissioned a national audit to establish the provision of dementia services across the country and will provide local NHS and social care organisations with a measure of their progress in key areas including a reduction in the use of anti-psychotic medication.
Residents’ stories appear in book THREE care home residents have had their life stories featured in a book about their hometown, Larkfield and the surrounding villages. Mary Warren, Diz Bernal and Derek Brown, who live at St Martins, have been involved with the Beat Project: All Our Stories, a book which takes a look at the history of Larkfield and its surrounding areas through the eyes of the residents that live there. The trio were invited to attend the celebration showcase launch, where they were presented with their own copies of the book.
Home manager Lesley Andrews said: “Many of our residents have lived in Larkfield for the majority of their lives so it’s really lovely that they are able to share their stories.” The community project has recorded the history, heritage and memories of local people living in a number of villages in Kent, including Larkfield, using both video and books. The book plans to provide a valuable historical resource for all community members and future generations, as well as a great keepsake for the residents whose stories are included.
08
18/12/13
15:57
Page 1
8
CARINGNEWS
Home receives award for supporting local students By Dominic Musgrave A LINCOLNSHIRE care home has been recognised for its ongoing commitment to providing work experience opportunities for students across the county. Hartsholme House, a not-for-profit care home in Lincoln run by The Orders of St John Care Trust, was presented with one of Lincolnshire & Rutland Education Business Partnership’s ‘Investors In Education’ Awards at a special ceremony. Nominated by schools, young people and members of the EBP team, the awards acknowledge the dedication of employers in supporting the workforce of tomorrow and are presented to a select number of organisations across the region each year. Hartsholme was recognised for delivering a work placement partnership programme with The Priory City School earlier this year, which saw a number of post 16 students take part in a work experience scheme at the home. Designed to support the students’ Health & Social Care studies, the placements provided the opportunity to learn about elderly care, as well as
allowing the students a chance to get involved with day-to-day activities and care practices around the home. Cheryl Gilderdale, manager of Hartsholme House, said: “We’re delighted to have received such a prestigious accolade for our work placement scheme. “Giving young people real-world experience and getting them involved in placement schemes is really important for everyone at Hartsholme and definitely something that we will look to continue in the future. With the average national age increasing every year, residential homes and elderly care schemes are becoming a key part of the community. Engaging with the carers of tomorrow and encouraging students to look into elderly care as a profession is absolutely essential.” Claire Flavell, operations manager for Lincolnshire & Rutland EBP, said: “Hundreds of businesses throughout the region go above and beyond each year to provide high quality work placements and meaningful experiences for students throughout the county. “Our Investors in Education Awards provide schools and colleges the opportunity to nominate and
Hartsholme House manager Cheryl Gilderdale and activities co-ordinator Hazel Read receive the award from Lincolnshire & Rutland EBP operations manager Claire Flavell and chief executive Elaine Lilley. acknowledge those whose dedication and commitment to the future’s workforce has shined most during 2013. “At EBP, we are devoted to creating the link between the worlds of business and education, and the support this year’s award recipients offered Lincolnshire and Rutland
teenagers has been absolutely priceless in terms of helping us build that bridge. “We, along with Lincolnshire and Rutland’s schools and teenagers, couldn’t be more grateful for the work and life experiences these businesses have provided to hundreds of young people across the region.”
09 p&g
18/12/13
16:06
Page 1
10
18/12/13
15:57
Page 1
10
CARINGNEWS
People from all over the country have been inspired to decorate napkins as part of a Bristol-based craft project to inspire those living with dementia. Dominic Musgrave reports.
Decorated napkins bring inspiration to home’s residents with dementia MORE than 120 embroidered napkins have been presented to Saffron Gardens dementia care home at the culmination of the Napkin Project, which has involved generations of families sharing their sewing skills, workplace colleagues spending lunch breaks stitching, and all sorts of people using their creativity to help and inspire people with dementia. The project began when artist Deirdre Nelson was working with staff and residents at the dementia care home. She noticed how important fabric was to the residents and how some of them would spend a long time smoothing a napkin, touching its edges or perhaps folding and refolding it. Sometimes someone would fold a napkin to create a vase for a flower, or make a napkin into a purse. She said: “I realised that a napkin is more than just a napkin in the way residents interacted with existing napkins in Saffron Gardens. “By gifting the napkins, people are helping to bring additional creativity and fun into the care home. As well as making art, people have helped to create something practical. It is important also for staff to know that
lots of people want to contribute, and care about their residents and the work that they’re doing.” The project explored the theme of ‘home’. Deirdre looked at what ‘home’ might mean to a person living with dementia. It could be where a person was born or grew up – a suburb of Bristol, a village in the Punjab or a small town in Jamaica or the place and time when someone has been happiest among family and friends. Lin Feist, manager of Saffron Gardens, Brunelcare’s new dementia care home in Bristol said: “What has appealed to me most about the Napkin Project is what a fantastic reminiscence tool the napkins are. With them all being based around the theme of home and family, this can mean so many things to different people and evoke very different emotions. “We plan to use them not only at meal times, but also have them placed around the home to act as conversation starters and to encourage different uses. “Deirdre commented on how she noticed residents carrying objects around in them and using them as
Artist Deirdre Nelson looking at a napkin with one of the Saffron Gardens residents. Photo: Jim Wileman. scarves, and the tactile nature of them will engage the people who live here also. They will hopefully also help family members engage with their loved ones and have a focussed talking point which can become a lot harder when they have dementia. “The bright and cheerful designs will add colour to the home and we look forward to putting them to use.”
The Napkin Project is part of a larger arts programme for the new care home run by specialist arts and health consultants Willis Newson for Saffron Gardens. It has been so successful at inspiring people with dementia and raising awareness of the importance of creativity, that they have decided to extend the project.
11 Beaucare
20/12/13
14:08
Page 1
12
18/12/13
16:17
Page 1
12
CARINGNEWS
Residents use Kindle to talk to relatives ST Marthas Care Centre in Stechford, Birmingham, has invested in a Kindle Fire, which has enabled two of its residents to communicate with their loved ones that live in Canada. Using Skype on the Kindle Fire, residents at the Akair Care owned home, Lillian and William Bushell, were able to see as well as talk to their son John and their daughterin-law, who they haven’t seen in two years. Manager Ben Barkatat said the Kindle is an important tool to support residents and enables them to keep in contact and linkup with their family members who may live in different parts of the world. He added: “It was fantastic to see the big smiles on Lillian and William’s faces as they spoke to their family. “It’s great that we can organise moments like this for our residents, as some do not get to see their relatives, so special moments like this gives them a real boost.”
New Good Care Guide launches in Scotland By Dominic Musgrave FAMILIES in Scotland looking for care for their relatives can now draw on first-hand experiences of care homes, home care agencies and nurseries across the country. Good Care Guide (www.goodcareguide.co.uk), the independent TripAdvisor style website for the care industry, has teamed up with the Care Inspectorate, Scotland’s independent scrutiny and improvement body for care services, to give parents, older people and carers the platform to have their say about the care they have used. Over 6,000 Scottish care providers can now be found on the Good Care Guide website, letting parents and families across Scotland find, rate and review the care providers they have used – leaving valuable information for other families looking to make important decisions about care for their relatives. Andy Major, director at goodcareguide.co.uk said: “Good Care Guide has a pure interest in promoting and raising the standards of care across the UK, and we are delighted that we are now in a position to help place quality care at the heart of Scottish society.
Andy Major “Whether you’re looking for the best nursery in Edinburgh or a great care home in Glasgow, Good Care Guide is there to help.” “This move is an important step in supporting the work of the Care Inspectorate, and we hope it will help improve the quality of childcare and eldercare provision in Scotland, as well as increase much-needed transparency across the sector.” Good Care Guide launched in England in February 2012 and has
proved popular with families embarking on the journey of finding the right care for their loved ones. It currently receives around 3,000 visits a day. It has also been an essential source of help for care providers, who can improve their quality of service as a result of receiving honest, impartial and genuine reviews. Annette Bruton, chief executive at the Care Inspectorate says: “As Scotland’s scrutiny and improvement body for care services, we believe it is vital that service users and their families can easily access all the information they need to make informed decisions about the services they use. “We publish all our official inspection reports on every service in Scotland which we regulate online. We are delighted to now also be providing information to goodcareguide.co.uk to help people quickly and easily get an insight into what others have said about a nursery or care home near them. “Feedback from people using care services, and their families, is extremely important.” Good Care Guide was developed by My Family Care and United for All Ages, both organisations working in childcare and eldercare with years of experience advising families.
13
18/12/13
15:58
Page 1
13
CARINGNEWS
Afternoon tea to be highlight of national event AFTERNOON tea across the world will epitomise good nutrition and hydration for Nutrition & Hydration Week 2014 Nutrition & Hydration Week 2014 (March 17-23) will see nationwide action across social and health care settings to raise awareness and improve understanding of the vital importance of good nutrition and hydration – an initiative that is attracting worldwide support and praise. The focal national event and highlight of the week will be a Worldwide Afternoon Tea on Wednesday March 19. Service providers in both health and social care settings are invited to share afternoon tea with those entrusted to their care, no matter where they care for them, demonstrating a united effort and commitment to improving nutrition and hydration. Supporters of Nutrition & Hydration Week in other countries have been invited to join the party, making it a truly global event. These include the Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals, USA, the Canadian Society of Nutrition Management, the Institute of
Hospitality in Healthcare, Australia, the Spanish Association of Hospital Hospitality, the Norwegian Dietetic Association and Healthcare Caterers International, to name a few. The three leading organisations of Nutrition & Hydration Week 2014 – Patient Safety First, Hospital Caterers Association and National Association of Care Catering – are urging social and health care providers to serve afternoon tea to service users and visitors where appropriate. NACC chair Neel Radia added: “Everybody focuses on mealtimes when it comes to nutrition and hydration, but a little food and often is the key for older people. “The message of three meals and two snacks a day is embraced by focusing on a food event outside of a main meal time. Afternoon tea is ideal as it does fit into every care situation, be it in residential homes, day care, or in the community through meal services and community support. “It also adds an important social dimension for service users. We urge everyone to get involved, even if afternoon tea is only shared with one person.”
Michelle Buck and Jean Cusworth in the studio.
Photo: Radio Teesdale.
Duo take to the airwaves JEAN Cusworth, a resident at The Manor House care home in Barnard Castle, and lifestyle coordinator Michelle Buck have been on air for the Radio Teesdale Radiothon. The Radiothon is the flagship event for the community radio station, raising money to keep it going throughout the year. It is sponsored by local businesses and provides 30 hours of live radio over two days with as many community guests as possible. Jean, who was born in Australia and came to the UK in 1946, and Michelle, talked about life at the home and being involved with the community through special interest
groups and local volunteers. Jean said: “I enjoyed the experience, it’s the first time I’ve been on the radio. “I’d prepared Stanley Holloway’s Albert and the Lion to read and it went well, at the end there was a round of applause from everyone in the studio.” The Hadrian Healthcare Group home has also been involved with Radio Teesdale on a project on local dialect. One of the presenters recorded some of the residents speaking who are knowledgeable about different words used across the rural community.
14
18/12/13
14
15:59
Page 1
CARINGNEWS
The happy couple celebrate with St Thomas’ resident Bill Marshal and friends.
Home hosts ceremony so resident can join in wedding celebrations ST THOMAS’ care home in Basingstoke got the chance to use its newly refurbished chapel for the wedding blessing of a resident's granddaughter. The care home helped the newly wed bride, Becky Bengey, stage a second ceremony so her grandfather, Bill Marshal, 82, could celebrate the happy occasion with family as he wasn't well enough to attend the wedding ceremony in Gloucestershire. Activities co-ordinator Terri Philpotts, was integral to organising the event. She said: “Becky asked me about three months ago if it would be possible. I suggested that the chapel may be available and that this would be better for Bill as it is more church like. I gave her the details of Reverend Cannon Jo Stoker, who does our church services, and our head chef, Janet Farrow, set about making a wedding cake. “Becky agreed that as many
residents as possible could take part in her special occasion. Terri and the team decorated a dining room as a wedding reception room with bows on chairs and beautiful floral centre pieces. Residents cheered the newly weds and some took the opportunity to touch the bride's wedding dress. The couple enjoyed a mini honeymoon in Cornwall after their wedding blessing, and Bill was happy to witness them dressed in their finery firsthand. Venita Couzens, general manager at the home, said: "Terri has worked so hard to get every thing just right so that it would be a wonderful day for Bill and his family. “It must be nearly 100 years since there was a wedding in the chapel, and the residents that wanted to be part of it enjoyed every moment. I would encourage more of this kind of activity as it involves all family members and this is so important to our residents."
Residents and members of staff at Philips Court in Gateshead gathered to officially open a 1950s lounge in the home, which has been created thanks to the generosity of the family of the late Kathleen Welch, who was a resident. Her son Christopher donated her 1950s style furniture and trinkets to the home after Kathleen passed away. Residents are able to enjoy the lounge and reminisce about days gone by. Kathleen Welch’s sons Chris and John are pictured with Karleen Taylor-Williams, manager at Philips Court, resident Betty Pallister and unit manager Elaine Kirtkey.
15
20/12/13
12:42
Page 1
CARINGNEWS
Village wins award for independence through exercise A NORTH West retirement village has won international recognition for its exercise programme and gym facilities that help to promote independence and good health. Belong Macclesfield picked up the Excellence in Ageing Services Award from the International Association of Homes and Services for the Ageing – a global organisation dedicated to showcasing diverse care programmes from across the globe. It was presented at the 10th annual IAHSA conference ‘Connecting our Global Community’ in Shanghai, and collected on Belong’s behalf by David Hughes, senior partner at Manchester and London based architects Pozzoni. The firm is behind the architectural design of Belong villages, and is a specialist in ‘personal architecture’ and designing for the needs of older people. Tracy Paine, operations director at Belong, said: “We are absolutely passionate about the benefits of exercise and delighted to have our service recognised on the international stage in this way. “I hope that this will help to highlight what an important contribution a simple exercise programme can make to the physical and mental
Tracy Paine, operations director at Belong, with the award. wellbeing of older people.” The Belong Macclesfield ‘Independence through exercise’ service is now in its third year, led by qualified care and fitness professional Barbara Tait. It is open to village residents and members of the wider community. The exercise studio is equipped with specialist equipment for older people, and sessions are supervised by instructors qualified in fitness and care for older people. Part of the Belong exercise service is to ensure that staff, relatives, residents and customers are all involved, because people that understand the value of the programmes are better equipped to stay motivated to exercise.
15
16&17 Skills for Care
20/12/13
14:08
Page 1
Advertiser’s announcement
Good ambassadors for care ADULT social care currently employs around 1.5 million people and is driven by significant changes in demographics and the way services are being delivered across England.
as possible. When the I Care... Ambassador search register is launched we will be able to start reaching even more people and hopefully make a real impact.”
The number of jobs could increase by up to 1 million by 2025 so finding, keeping and developing enough workers to meet the current and future demand continues to be a huge challenge. Many people have a negative perception of what it’s like to work in care and are unaware of the diverse range of career opportunities.
I Care…Ambassadors supports everyone affected by the future of the adult social care and provides a number of benefits for care providers, staff and the people who require care and support.
Skills for Care facilitates the I Care…Ambassadors service, which uses enthusiastic people working in an adult social care role which involves direct day to day delivery of care and support, to share their experiences of what it’s like to work in adult social care. Ambassadors provide a first hand, current picture of what it’s like to work in the adult social care to dispel the negative myths and will promote the wide range of career opportunities to those who hadn’t previously considered a careers in this sector. We support more than 100 care providers to deliver the I Care...Ambassadors service across England. Emma White works as the service coordinator for The Suffolk Care Ambassador Employer Partnership and is an advocate of this service: “I have found the support and resources from Skills for Care to be very good, and I work very closely with them to make the service as successful
“I have found the support and resources from Skills for Care to be very good, and I work very closely with them to make the service as successful as possible” Becoming part of this service will raise your profile as quality employer who invests in staff development, helping to attract informed workers who will stay for longer. It will also help to increase the take up of care services and contribute to developing and motivating your staff. Encouraging your staff to become ambassadors will help to develop their confidence and skills. By talking to other people within the sector it will expand their network of contacts and will
encourage their career progression. Ultimately this service will help you to maintain a capable, confident, skilled workforce which can provide continuity and high quality support for people who use social care services. For more information about getting involved and signing up to become a registered I Care…Ambassador service go to www.skillsforcare.org.uk/icareambassadors or email icare@skillforcare.org.uk
16&17 Skills for Care
20/12/13
14:08
Page 2
Advertiser’s announcement
Embedding the Commitment THE Social Care Commitment is raising the standards in adult social care as organisations are beginning to embed it into their workplaces. The Commitment, which involves signing up to a series of ‘I will…’ statements and tasks that put those statements into practice, is a Department of Health initiative that has been developed by the sector so that it is fit for purpose and makes a real difference to those signing up. The statements focus on issues that are important to all care providers including induction, recruitment and retention and equality and diversity. It is for the whole sector, whether you are an individual, SME or large employer or a care worker. Once a provider has made the Social Care Commitment they receive Learning through Work: guides to help you make the Social Care Commitment. This is a resource that contains five booklets, two for leaders and managers and three for workers that give practical advice and support on how to embed the commitment and work through the tasks. It really allows organisations to ensure that the whole workforce has an understanding of the Commitment and can see how it can affect them both in day to day working, as well as seeing the long term impact it can have on learning and development. Nigel Taylor, Group Learning and Development Manager, at CareTech explained how useful the guides were as they very easy to read and understand and they give you each statement with the tasks and evidence you need to meet that statement. CareTech is one of many organisations to have made the Commitment and can see how it is starting to positively impact values and behaviours throughout the organisation. CareTech is a large multi-sited organisation that is constructed of small businesses spread across the
whole of the UK providing a range of services of the sector. This can present challenges when ensuring that the culture and behaviours are consistent throughout the organisation. However the organisation has a range of corporate procedures in place to support recruitment, learning and development and Human Resource Management which they have used to support the successful implementation of the Commitment. As Nigel explained “We are well onto our next phase of implementing the Social Care Commitment and embedding its qualities, methods and ways of working in to CareTech.” To ensure the organisation was ready to implement the Commitment CareTech ran a two day preparation event. For this operational staff at all levels were involved in workshops to grow their understanding of the Commitment and to look at the statements. When you sign up to the Commitment you are given access to a range of resources, developed by partners across the sector including Skills for Care, The National Skills Academy for Social Care and SCIE. The resources can support you with the individual statements and cover real-life workplace issues such as effective communication, upholding dignity in the workforce and a comprehensive induction. Organisations can use these resources to support them when making their commitment and to support staff’s learning and development. Nigel described how important these resources were in implementing the Commitment. He said “to ensure you don’t re-invent the wheel, there are mapping guides to map those resources against each statement with an explanation about how to use them; in fact it also shows where other quality kite marks fit in to the Social Care Commitment. The
whole pack of resources couldn’t make life any easier for Human Resources professionals”. When someone has made the Commitment the system develops a personal and organisational development plan for those who sign up which maps the tasks and the statements and identifies learning and development gaps. These are there to help with the long term implementation of the commitment. Individuals can use them to develop their career goals whilst organisations can use them to focus their development structure. Those who have made the Commitment understand the importance of it and how it can really shape care services in the future. CareTech certainly have that understanding, as Nigel explained “we see the Social Care Commitment as an important and key standard and are fully committed to embedding its qualities in to everything we do, recruitment, induction, training, performance management, compliance and regulation and meeting agendas.” As the commitment has been developed by people within the sector who understand the time constraints people who work in care are under, signing up has been made an easy process. To learn more about the Commitment and how to make it visit www.thesocialcarecommitment.org.uk.
18
18/12/13
16:00
Page 1
18
CARINGNEWS
Northamptonshire care home praised in House of Lords By Dominic Musgrave
Jeremy Hunt bakes a cake with Nightingale House resident Betty Weinberg.
MP witnesses best practice HEALTH secretary Jeremy Hunt MP visited Nightingale House to witness examples of best practice care for older people, prior to announcing that the UK would be paving the way to tackling dementia worldwide. The visit was arranged ahead of the recent first G8 Summit on dementia care. Jeremy met chairman Harvey Rosenblatt, chief executive Helen Simmons and outgoing chief executive Leon Smith to discuss care home issues facing the UK and their thoughts on how these should be addressed. Harvey said: “It was a pleasure to meet with the health secretary and to demonstrate best practice in person-
centred care. “We hope to maintain this position in years to come and act as a role model for the standard of care across England.” Jeremy also toured the home to see first-hand what it offers residents. At the activity centre he spoke with resident Betty Weinberg about her time at Nightingale Hammerson as they baked a cake together. Jeremy then joined a larger group of residents in making clay star decorations for Chanukah, part of the home’s innovative resident arts programme. The tour was completed with a viewing of the Wohl Wing, which was opened by Prince Charles in 2011.
A NORTHAMPTONSHIRE care home has been recognised in the House of Lords for the high quality services it provides to its residents. Abbott House in Oundle was singled out for praise in a speech by Lord Mawhinney, baron of Peterborough, for the standards of care provided to his mother in the final stages of her life. Lord Mawhinney said that, in a time when many residential and nursing homes have rightly developed poor reputations, he was “grateful” for the “professional, sympathetic and focussed care” the staff at Abbott House, which is run by Shaw Healthcare, gave to his mother. The quality of care at Abbott House came, he said, “despite the pressures that people are facing and the inadequacies of what the NHS made available at weekends.” He was speaking on the back of a report from the Select Committee on Public Service and Demographic Change, entitled ‘Ready for Ageing?’, which calls for a 24-hour, seven-daya-week social care service. Lord Mawhinney stressed the need for cross-party support for “radical
“No one does this job for a pat on the back, and our primary focus is always our residents ...” change” to the health and social care system to tackle the “present scandal of the treatment of our elderly.” Paula Hogan, manager at Abbott House, said: “It is fantastic to have the work of the staff here praised at such a high level. The team are all incredibly hardworking and dedicated to ensuring that every resident receives the very best care possible. “No one does this job for a pat on the back, and our primary focus is always our residents, ensuring that they live as happy, stimulating and fulfilling lives as they possibly can.” Abbott House is a purpose-built, 40 bed, home that provides residential care for older people who are physically frail or suffering from dementia.
19 CHIS
18/12/13
16:08
Page 1
20&21 bond dps
18/12/13
16:09
Page 1
20&21 bond dps
18/12/13
16:09
Page 2
22 Gomples
18/12/13
16:10
Page 1
23
18/12/13
16:29
Page 1
23
CARINGNEWS
Sensory gardens – best practice By Debra Keeling ENHANCING and maintaining the quality of life for care home residents is of central importance to care providers. Therefore, ensuring the care home environment is responsive to different needs is crucial and this can extend well beyond the four walls of the home itself. Sensory gardens are increasingly popular ways to create an environment for residents that invigorates all the senses, provides space for recreation and leisure activities while allowing residents to enjoy an outdoor space. This is key to contributing to a better quality of life for older people as experiencing fresh air, gentle exercise and stimulation of the mind and senses can significantly improve their well-being. In essence, a sensory garden is any safe, self-contained area which is specially designed to offer a range of sensory experiences. It is a more varied and stimulating environment than a traditional garden and provides therapeutic benefits to those whose cognitive functions are in decline. With this in mind, there are some key elements to consider when creating a sensory garden for care home residents: Garden design needs to focus on the overall sensory experience. By offering a range of pleasant sights, smells and textures the introduction of a sensory garden can be so beneficial
for care homes. Using traditional plants and flowers, especially plants with a distinct scent such as lavender and roses, can encourage residents to reminisce and link with memories, which can inspire conversation with other residents or care home staff. The use of textured plants such as meadow grasses will encourage residents to engage with the garden through touch, whilst also attracting birds and wildlife into the garden to enrich the array of experience for all residents. In addition, the sounds of the garden, such as water features and birdsong, are ways to create a fully-rounded sensory environment which can be enjoyed by all, especially those who may be partially sighted or have limited mobility. The design of the garden should be robust so that it can be used as well as looked at by the residents. Incorporating features such as raised beds and potted plants allows residents to get involved in the garden’s upkeep and stay active. Activities in the care home could include gardening, flower arranging or crafts to get everyone involved. There are many variations of the sensory garden, but when designing and introducing one for the elderly, some of whom have dementia, it is of course important to pay attention to the overall needs of the individual, as well as focusing on the senses. Making sure that there is easy and safe access to and around the garden itself is crucial. The type of paving
Debra Keeling and pathways and any areas that require reach need to be well-thought out to ensure that residents are not restricted in their enjoyment of the garden. For instance, gravel pathways would not be easy to navigate with mobility equipment. Paying particular attention to the mobility of residents may also include the provision of extra-wide walkways and ramps instead of steps to help those with wheelchairs and walking frames. Level walkways will minimise trip hazards and borders can help keep paths clearly defined. Other factors to consider may include handrails, well-positioned resting points where people can sit and relax and colour paving to distinguish different areas within the garden. The sensory garden should be comfortable and attractive through the changing seasons. Incorporating seating and covered areas into the
garden design can enhance the residents’ enjoyment of the space, by providing convenient resting spots from which they can enjoy the view, while offering shelter and shade from the seasonal elements. A year-round garden should be the key to a sensory garden design. However, a sensory garden does not have to be in the garden. In fact roof gardens can create wonderful alternatives for residents of homes that may not have traditional outdoor space. Additionally, where residents have limited mobility, the garden can be replicated indoors. Bringing the garden inside, with pot plants and conservatories can stimulate the senses in much the same way as an outdoor garden. The use of movement, texture and colour through sights, sounds and smells of nature, allows all residents to benefit, no matter their mobility or the weather. Ultimately a sensory garden is introduced to benefit the key stakeholders of the care homes - the residents. By focusing on their specific needs in respect to senses, access, and enjoyment, an environment can be created which is tailored to each individual care home. It is in this way that care providers can enhance the quality of life for residents and ensure that regardless of cognitive functionality, they have a space which is beneficial and enjoyable for all. Debra is the deputy director of care and dementia care specialist with the RMBI.
24
18/12/13
16:01
Page 1
24
sponsors CARINGDEMENTIA
Book proposes a bold new approach to dementia care By Gill Bailey KENNY has dementia. He isn’t using words to communicate anymore and his mobility has suffered after a fall. Yet his family and support team know what it is important to him: the company of his wife and mother, chocolate, magazines, newspapers, tea with two sugars and long bubble baths. And the people who support Kenny in his care home know this straight away, too, even if it’s the first time they have met him. How? It is written on his one-page profile. Doreen doesn’t know that she has dementia. She is 79 years-old and lives in a residential service. The organisation put a lot of effort into her care plan but crucial information about Doreen was scattered across 60 pages of clinical notes and assessments plus a page of likes and dislikes. You get a very different understanding of who Doreen is from her one-page profile. You learn that she enjoys talking to Winifred and Kathleen and that she gets upset if she is ignored; knowing this helps staff to encourage and
support these relationships. We learn that Doreen likes to get up in her own time, between 8am and 10am in the morning. She used to be rushed in the mornings but now that this information has been shared she is left to rise at her leisure. As well as a personal change for Doreen, this is a shift in culture from a largely task-focused organisational culture, to one that is based on relationships and a deep understanding of individuals. Over the last few years we have been introducing one-page profiles to people living with dementia and also the staff who support them. They are the starting point for delivering truly personalised support. They’ve already been used successfully across many other sectors of health and social care and their purpose is to help understand what make a person tick and to put that person in the centre of decisonmaking about their care. A one-page profile asks, simply, and on just one sheet of paper, what is important to someone, how they wish to be supported and what people appreciate about them. The
compilation of a one-page profiles leads on very naturally to a personcentred review meeting, where family, carers and the person themselves meet to look at what is working and not working from everyone’s perspective. By acting on what we learn from this information, we can make a huge difference to people’s lives. It’s a new way of working that represents a real shift in power and a change of culture. Traditional models of care revolve around the efficient execution of daily routines – washing, dressing and eating. By focusing equally on what matters to people as unique individuals, as well as the things that need to happen to keep them healthy and safe, we can improve the quality of lives dramatically. This is personalisation in practice. It has been ten years since I wrote the first one-page profile for a member of my own family who was living with dementia. The experiences I have had working with carers, their families and individuals themselves since then have convinced me that person-centred practices have huge potential to build
Gill Bailey on the crucial foundation of personcentred care and change lives. Statistics tell us that by 2021 there will be one million people in this country living with dementia and there are widespread calls for change in how we support and care for them. Gill Bailey works for Helen Sanderson Associates. Her new book, co-authored with Helen, is Personalisation and Dementia: A Guide for Person-Centred Practice.
Specialist £7m scheme which will create 100 jobs gets green light By Dominic Musgrave
Some of the work at the ‘Art for Health’ exhibition.
Home holds art exhibition RESIDENTS, staff and friends joined Nightingale House for its first ‘Art for Health’ exhibition, established by the leading London dementia care home to highlight how art can positively enrich people’s mental wellbeing. The care home commissioned four ‘artists in residence’ to allow a creative exchange between residents living with severe dementia, and for the artists to take inspiration from the residents they worked with. The artwork, created by Mark Halliley, Emma Hockley, Sadie Edinton and Edward Murray with residents, were highly acclaimed by guests at the exhibition for the way they powerfully captured the
thoughts and moments in the residents’ lives. Rosalind Wyatt, artist facilitator said: “As an artist spending most working time in a studio environment and now facilitating this Art for Health project, it is so inspiring to witness how art can not only transform and dramatically enliven peoples’ environment and physical space, but also how the very presence of those working artists brings life giving qualities to all who live and come into contact with them and their work” The finished pieces will remain on show for residents and their families at Nightingale House.
A £7million scheme in North Wales to provide specialist dementia care and create 100 new jobs has been given the green light. Gwynedd councillors unanimously overturned a recommendation by officials to reject the planning application to develop the site of the former community hospital, Ysbyty Bryn Seiont, on the outskirts of Caernarfon, in Gwynedd. The decision in favour of the proposal delighted social care pioneer Mario Kreft MBE and his wife, Gill, who originally bought the site in 2009. He said: “I am grateful to the councillors who recognised the strategic importance of our investment in Caernarfon. “Our aim from the outset has been to provide vital services and much needed employment in the area. “I am pleased we can now proceed to realise our vision of creating a world class, fully bilingual centre of excellence for dementia care allied to 16 extra care apartments as part of an integrated service.” The plans for Bryn Seiont are based on a similar centre, called Bodlondeb, in Wrexham which was opened by
First Minister Carwyn Jones in 2010. Mario added: “One aspect of the scheme is to have dedicated respite provision, something which is often difficult to find for families and carers who want to keep caring but need a break to recharge the batteries. “We have received a huge amount of support for our plans from many people, not least those living near the site and we also very grateful to them for their support and understanding. “In fact, we are very grateful for the backing of a large number of elected representatives in Gwynedd who see the bigger picture and the strategic need for a development of this nature, providing essential services and creating much-needed employment.” “Canolfan Gofal Parc Pendine will provide 24/7 services that will include respite and day services. But they will also be closely linked with a domiciliary care organisation that will support people in their own homes and a teaching care centre which is going to ensure that our staff have the highest possible standard of training and personal development.” The couple already run seven care homes, a domiciliary care company and a teaching care centre in the Wrexham area.
25
18/12/13
16:24
Page 1
25
CARINGSOMETHING SPECIAL
Music therapist brings expertise to conference By Dominic Musgrave THE lead music therapist of MHA is to bring his expertise and research to a conference in Birmingham. Ming Hung Hsu, along with fellow MHA music therapists Clare Monckton and Rosamund Pendry, will give two presentations to the inaugural conference of the British Association for Music Therapy in the Birmingham Conservatoire in February. The presentations will cover video analysis in psychophysiological research into music therapy, and the benefits of the alternative therapy for people with dementia. The presentations will draw on a small trial that has been carried out at two MHA homes to assess the effects of music therapy on people with dementia. In total, 14 residents from two MHA homes, Homestead in Carterton, Oxfordshire and Fitzwarren House in Swindon, Wiltshire, took part in the five-month period. The trial was conducted with the assistance of professor Helen Odell-Miller of Anglia Ruskin University. The data is now being analysed. Ming said: “There is not much research going on into the effects of music therapy for people with dementia, so we are very pleased to be doing this. This has been a psy-
chophysiological trial – we have been collecting data such as skin temperature and heart rate to help indicate the effect music therapy has on people. “This was just a small feasibility trial but I hope it sets the path to help us understand how music therapy works. A lot of music therapy research now is indicating that it can improve well-being but very little has been done into how it actually works, the mechanisms of it.” Ming has addressed other international music therapy conferences previously, including ones in Seoul and Norway. He has a Masters in music therapy with a distinction from Anglia Ruskin University and is soon to start a PhD there with funding from MHA. He added: “I will research how Music Therapy can improve quality of life for care home residents. Nobody has yet looked into how exactly Music Therapy works. There have been studies showing that it works, but none into how or why. I’m going to be looking into that. “In time, I’d like to write a book, possibly in collaboration with others, about Music Therapy in care homes – nobody is publishing anything about that at the moment and I think there is so much we can learn from it to enable us to provide the best possible care that we can.”
St Catherines Care Home in Bolton linked up with the community club St Marys to put on a charity night to raise money for the residents’ social funds. Four singers gave up their time and volunteered to entertain the guests. This was followed by a karaoke/ disco, a raffle, name the dog competition and a pasty and peas supper. More than £600 was raised to give the residents a Christmas they will not forget. Resident Lillian Cox and her family are pictured enjoying the charity night.
Hotel celebrates successful year THE Bond Hotel in Blackpool has specialised in holidays for guests who live in residential settings for over 20 years, and in 2013 has had an unprecedented number of guests for a fully accessible, cabaret packed seaside holiday. For our 2014 season we have made some fantastic improvements, which will benefit our guests, such as the installation of some new bathrooms, a large number of our 62 bedrooms
fitted with profiling beds and many more rooms fitted with ceiling tracked hoists to make the carer’s job even easier. As always our cabaret team are ready to provide you with an amazing programme for 2014, and we have some fantastic tributes from ABBA to Grease and theme breaks such as ‘Wartime Memories’ and our next Soap Star Special when a very special guest from one of the most loved soaps will be joining us in April.
Maintenance person Thomas Kunjachan, senior care assistants Sini George-Kolenchery and Shaij John, physiotherapist assistant Barbara Laniecka, sister Mariana Chircu and catering assistant Guillermo Tacanay are pictured with Ganymede PLC director Geoff Daly, centre director Steve Winter and facilities and compliance manager Zyaad Khoyrutty.
Centre hosts loyalty lunch THE Chiswick Nursing Centre held a loyalty award lunch for staff, family and friends. Ten members of staff were recognised for long service at the facility,which provides high quality nursing care for older people. Between them they have clocked up 50 years of service caring for residents at the home in Ravenscourt
Gardens, Chiswick. Centre director Steve Winter said: “When people are at a stage in their lives when they most need help, it’s important to make sure they are looked after and nursed by consistent, caring staff. These awards recognise our employees’ dedication and we would like to congratulate everyone involved.”
26
20/12/13
12:42
Page 1
26
CARINGFIRE AND SAFETY
Door closer helps to enhance care home safety A NEW door closer promises to enable care homes to comply with fire safety and accessibility requirements whilst enhancing the comfort of residents and staff. The Powermatic® Free Swing controlled, concealed door closer has been developed by Samuel Heath, one of the country’s foremost authorities on discreet door closing, as an addition to its range of Powermatic® door closers. Meeting relevant fire and accessibility requirements the door closer fits neatly between the door and frame, making it totally concealed when the door is closed. This absence of visible, unsightly mechanical arms and control boxes significantly not only enhances the aesthetics of doors and interiors, but also assures a less institutionalised appearance, creating a more comfortable environment for staff and residents. Connected to the building’s 24-volt fire alarm system, the new door closer can function in the same way as the company’s popular Powermatic®
door closer or can allow a door to be operated manually and left open as desired once the mechanism has been primed by opening the door to its maximum. Enquiries: Call 0121 766 4200 or visit www.Powermatic-freeswing.co.uk
Easydor the ideal solution for care homes SAFETY and convenience often don’t sit well together. We all know we need to keep fire doors closed to hinder the spread of fire, yet often particularly in nursing and residential care buildings ease and convenience mean doors are propped open. Leading fire safety provider, Fireco provides residential and care homes with the ideal solution, Easydor. An eco-friendly wire free door operator, it brings accessibility and convenience to visitors while allowing companies to adhere to disability discrimination legislation. A heavy duty, low energy opener, it also acts as a door closer, making your establishment safer and helping you conform to fire safety legislation. Designed for places where there is a high level of traffic, Easydor uses a regenerative drive system that charges its internal battery pack, eliminating the need for an electrical power supply. For every four users who open the door
Members of Blue Watch, Leatherhead Fire Station with the Caremark (Mid-Surrey) care team and managing director Laura Reeves.
Staff spend day with Blue Watch
manually, Easydor will store enough kinetic energy to operate the door for one wheelchair user. Enquiries: Installed with no fuss, Easydor is available by visiting www.firecoltd.com or calling 0845 241 7474.
CAREMARK (Mid-Surrey) spent a day of fire safety awareness with the Blue Watch brigade of Leatherhead Fire Station. The new initiative is part of the domiciliary care provider’s drive to bring greater fire safety awareness into their clients’ homes. Managing director Laura Reeves said she is keen to make fire safety awareness part of the service they
offer their clients. She said: “It was a very worthwhile day, and we have followed it up by writing to our clients, asking them if they would like us to conduct an initial fire safety assessment. “If, following our assessment, we spot potential dangers, we will then refer our clients to the fire brigade for a free of charge safety check to be carried out.”
27
20/12/13
12:43
Page 1
CARINGHYGIENE, CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
Vax Commercial cares for more than just floors CARPETS, sofas and soft furnishings all help to make a home feel more like home, but it can be a challenge to keep them clean and hygienic. Vax Commercial’s new VCW-05 quick-drying spray extractor makes it easy – its powerful suction removes embedded dirt and stubborn stains from carpets and upholstery, leaving them thoroughly clean and smelling fresh. It has excellent drying times too, so your carpets are ready to walk on in no time. For a really deep clean of all kitchen and bathroom surfaces, including windows, tiles, taps and ovens, Vax Commercial’s VCST-01 steam cleaner is ideal for almost every surface. This multi-purpose cleaner switches easily between functions for steam cleaning and sucking up accidental wet spills. In steam mode it heats up in just 90 seconds to produce 4.5 bar of hot steam that sanitises and deodorises without chemicals. The VCW-05 spray extractor is available from January and VCST-01 steam cleaner from February 2014. A leading brand from one of the
Girbau UK publishes guide
world’s largest floorcare manufacturers, Vax Commercial’s product range includes robust and upright vacuum cleaners, scrubber dryers, floor sweepers, carpet washers and cleaning detergents.
GIRBAU UK has published an A2sized poster outlining best practice tips for those working in care and nursing home laundries. The at-a-glance guide includes a key to all the most commonly seen laundry care symbols and a list of easy-to-follow Dos and Don’ts for anyone working in a care home laundry. The advice covers best practice for infection control, safety and the prevention of cross contamination, as well as a range of tips to ensure effective washing and drying, optimum machine efficiency and long machine life.
Girbau UK’s Complete Laundry Care package offers the latest energy efficient washers, dryers and ironers with a fixed monthly rental that includes all service and maintenance. Under the terms of the unique Pay No Rental Guarantee, Girbau will pay a whole month’s rental if it is ever unable to attend a service call in the promised time. Girbau is the only company in the UK to manufacture, install and maintain laundry equipment. Enquiries: To request a free copy of the Good Practice Guide poster with a laminated wipe-clean surface call Girbau on 01462 427780. Copies can also be down-
27
28
19/12/13
28
15:48
Page 1
CARINGHYGIENE, CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
Are you ready for the new regulations? THE Waste (Scotland) Regulations represent the most significant development in recycling for Scotland. They are designed to help realise the true value of resources currently being thrown away, boost Scotland’s economy and create green jobs. New figures from Zero Waste Scotland estimate that Scotland is currently paying £95m in landfill taxes to throw away recyclable materials, valued at £97m. The regulations will also play a key role in helping Scotland reach its ambitious target of 70 per cent recycling of all waste by 2025. What does this mean for care homes? All organisations, regardless of size, are required to separate plastic, metal, glass, paper and card for recycling, or risk a fine. This means that all 1,600 Scottish care homes will need to comply with the new regulations, whether they are under the ownership of the National Health Service, local authorities, private or voluntary sectors. Where food is processed, distributed, prepared or sold, it is also likely that this will need to be recycled. How other care homes manage their waste A resource efficiency audit was recently carried out for Resource Efficient Scotland at 30 care homes in Scotland. Waste management practices are fairly standard, typically involving segregation of: general waste, clinical waste (both of which
go to landfill), mixed recycling, glass recycling, light bulbs, waste oil (reused) and furniture. Steps to be Regulation compliant If this is the process you are following to sort your waste at present, here are some simple improvements you could make to be Regulations compliant. Separate each of the key dry recyclates (that’s paper, card, glass, metal and plastic) and make arrangements for the collection with your waste contractor. Alternatively you can put some of these materials together in one container for what is called a comingled collection. A co-mingled collection is only suitable if: Your contractor can recycle the materials as well as they would if they collected everything separately The waste is not mixed with other waste that cannot be recycled Remember that food waste should be presented separately from January 2014 and, from 1 January 2016, it will not be permitted to dispose of waste into public sewers using, for example, macerators. You could arrange for a re-use organisation to uplift any furniture you no longer need, to prolong its life. Food business requirements A food business is one which processes, distributes, prepares or sells food (this excludes drinks preparation and sales). A food business producing over 50kg of food waste per week must present it for
separate collection from January 1 2014. A typical household wheelie bin (first shown) is 240 litres. The second is 140 litres. 50kg of food waste is approximately 100 litres and you can from the green dotted lines see here roughly what volume of food waste would equate to 50kg. From 1 January 2016, the requirement to present food waste for separate collection will extend to all food businesses that produce over 5kg (equivalent of a kitchen food caddy) of food waste per week with effect from 1 January 2016. Rural exemptions for food waste Operators in rural areas are exempt from the food waste requirements of the Regulations. Resource Efficient Scotland has developed a simple online tool using your postcode to help you determine whether your organisation is exempt. You can find the ‘postcode finder’ at www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/Rural PostcodeSearch Managing waste to reduce ‘gate fee’ costs Care homes, like hospitals, have a clinical waste stream. Typical gate fees for clinical waste are £422 per tonne. Compare that to general waste which is charged at around £122 per tonne. Now consider how much general waste from your care home might be ending up in the clinical waste bin – and, if hospitals are anything to go by, that may be quite a lot. By auditing your waste stream to keep general waste separate from clinical waste, you could potentially
save around £200 per tonne on your waste bill. Who can help you to prepare? The Resource Efficient Scotland programme is delivered by Zero Waste Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, and is helping organisations to prepare for the new Regulations. There are free, userfriendly resources available online at www.resourceefficientscotland.com, which are designed to help make the transition to the new Regulations as easy and smooth as possible. What other resource efficiency measures are available? Resource Efficient Scotland is also working with care homes and other sectors to cut energy, water and raw materials use. Scottish organisations could save £2.9b every year by using their energy, water and raw materials more efficiently. By taking simple steps to optimise the use of these resources, Scottish organisations could benefit from cost savings and increased productivity and competitiveness. What to do now To get Regulation ready, and for free advice on other resource efficiency measures, visit www.resourceefficientscotland.com/r egulations. You can also email enquiries@resourceefficientscotland. com or call 0808 808 2268. To keep up to date with the Regulations and Resource Efficient Scotland, you can follow them on Twitter@ResourceScot
29 Miele
18/12/13
16:10
Page 1
30
20/12/13
30
13:31
Page 1
CARINGHYGIENE, CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
Beaucare’s CareClean™ range BEAUCARE has launched CareClean™ – a specialised NHS and care home chemical cleaning range. These products have been specifically formulated for medical environments. The range includes a number of concentrates providing dilution cost savings, without compromising on quality. Careclean™ is a selection of triggers, concentrates and five-litre refills, encompassing all the essentials for your daily cleaning regimes from multi surface cleaners, polishes and degreasers. Beaucare® Medical Ltd, established His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent takes a tour of Haigh’s factory.
Haigh plays host to The Duke of Kent HRH The Duke of Kent was given a tour of Haigh’s Ross-on-Wye facility and was introduced to the management and staff. Starting in the drawing office, he saw how concepts are turned into 3D virtual models, then issued to manufacturing for engineers to carry out the required machine tool programming, manufacture and testing. Demonstrating a keen interest and knowledge of engineering, The Duke engaged with all members of staff throughout the tour, taking the time
to speak with engineers and staff on the shop floor and throughout the offices. Managing director Mark Brian said: “We were especially delighted to be able to welcome HRH to our facility in Ross on Wye and it was an honour and a pleasure to be able to showcase our manufacturing facilities. “We are exceptionally proud of our British manufacturing pedigree, and this coupled with our position as a family owned business, made the event a real milestone for all involved.”
21 years, is the UK’s premier supplier of hygiene, medical supplies and equipment to individual care homes, care home groups, hospitals and NHS Trusts. Enquiries call 01423 878899, email sales@beaucare.com or visit www.beaucare.com
For your catering and laundry needs MILLERSUK Ltd is a national organisation providing a dedicated service to the commercial catering and laundry industry. A single point of contact for the customer, we manage all aspects of electrical or gas catering and commercial laundry equipment sales, service, Installation & repairs throughout the UK. MillersUK is committed to continuous improvement and positive innovation within your industry and are confident in providing all new and existing customers with a reliable, courteous and value for money service. We are able to offer a full design and installation service for all your commercial laundry equipment and kitchen needs. Our sales and
installation team are on hand to make sure your machines are installed to the correct specifications and adhere to all current regulations. To help you with your purchase and to enable you to afford the perfect solution for your requirements we not only supply quality goods at highly competitive prices. We have the following finance options available: Outright purchase. Lease to buy. Lease rental. We also accept all major credit & debit cards Enquiries: Call 0800 0853 573 or visit www.millersuk.co.uk
31 fowler
19/12/13
14:50
Page 1
32
20/12/13
32
13:13
Page 1
CARINGHYGIENE, CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
PHS Washrooms’ deep clean service promises ‘superclean’ facilities WITH customers expecting wellequipped, clean, hygienic and fresh smelling washrooms, PHS Washrooms has responded to the growing trend for superclean facilities. Answering to customer demand, the PHS Washrooms professional deep cleaning team is using advanced cleaning equipment and chemicals to eradicate built up organic minerals and matter that harbour germs and stains in washroom facilities. Keri Reynolds, marketing manager at PHS Washrooms, which has just launched its new Deep Clean Service, said: “Standards will rise throughout 2014 and the demand of the end user will shift from convenience to cleanliness. “We know through our own research and the feedback from our customers that visitors and staff expect pristine, sparkling facilities. Raising standards in washrooms doesn't just provide aesthetic and health benefits but also business and organisational benefits. Thorough, deep cleaning by specialist cleaners truly eradicates stains, hidden germs and bacteria. “The spread of diseases and
infection, teamed with society’s paranoia about cleanliness and hygiene, will lead to the demand for highly clean working conditions and washroom environments. “Your washroom says more about you than costly advertising ever could as it makes a positive lasting impression. In simple terms it says you care about the well-being of your customers, staff and visitors.” Whether your washroom needs a one off deep clean or a regular preventative maintenance programme, PHS Washrooms offers a flexible service
SEBO – the ultimate professional vacuum cleaner for the home SEBO’s professional range of vacuum cleaners has been developed to suit commercial environments. The range includes the SEBO BS 36 and BS 46 Comfort, DART, Professional D8 cylinder and UHS polisher, The SEBO BS 36 and BS 46 Comfort upright vacuum cleaners provide superior performance, outstanding reliability and are easy to maintain. The comfortable handle grip and low handle weight allow for easy, efficient movement while the 175W brush motor turns off when the machines are upright. The flat-to-the-floor design and telescopic tube system add to the overall cleaning flexibility while the electronic guidance system advises the correct brush height, will warn when the brush strip is worn out and will switch off the brush motor in the case of an obstruction to the brush. Meanwhile, the Professional D8 machine takes cylinders to a new level. The superbly engineered machine offers exceptional performance combined with an ergonomic design, large capacity and quiet, economic operation. The SEBO kombi multi-floor
cleaning head has a doublejointed neck for easy movement while the AirBelt bumper protects walls and furniture from marking and damage. Another option is the SEBO DART upright vacuum cleaner which offers powerful performance while being lightweight, versatile and easy-tomanoeuvre. The vacuum cleaner boasts a “Flex” neck, S-Class filtration, an on-board hose, a crevice nozzle, 4level height adjustment and auto shut-off. When the DART is detached from the power head, the machine is transformed into a powerful suction machine which makes cleaning curtains, for example, very easy. Finally, the UHS polisher is an essential add-on to the Dart vacuum cleaner; this can restore and keep hard floors, including solid wood, marble, vinyl, linoleum or granite, super sleek. The polisher is embedded with micro-diamonds in the pads. This polishes out imperfections in the floor creating a smooth gloss finish. For more information about SEBO, please call 01494 465 533 or visit www.sebo.co.uk
33a
20/12/13
12:44
Page 1
33
Innovative nursing home opens after £2.8m transformation By Dominic Musgrave ONE of Birmingham’s oldest charities, Broadening Choices for Older People, celebrated the official opening of its flagship nursing home following a major refurbishment which sets the benchmark for the care of older people and dementia sufferers. Robert Harvey House has undergone a £2.8m transformation and is one of the most innovative elderly and dementia care facilities in the West Midlands. With 46 en-suite bedrooms, the care home will provide long and short-term accommodation along with respite facilities for those suffering from various stages of
dementia. In addition, and as part of BCOP’s ground-breaking Animal Assisted Therapy programme, a large pet farm has also been created within the grounds and is home to a range of farm animals, that interact positively with residents, encouraging communication and enriching the lives of those with cognitive disabilities. BCOP chief executive Marcus Fellows said: “It’s taken just over two years to complete the refurbishment of Robert Harvey House and it’s been well worth the wait. The new facilities will not only change residents’ lives for the better but will set the bar for those who provide support and
accommodation for elderly and dementia patients in the UK. “BCOP is dedicated to ensuring that our residents benefit from the very best of care and we are proud that our investment here demonstrates our commitment to that.” With particular emphasis on creating a calming environment, the new facilities incorporate colour-ways suitable for those with visual impairment, a number of comfortable communal and sensory spaces, indoor and outdoor activity areas including a large chess board, a sensory garden and residents potting area. Robert Harvey House also boasts a bandstand for live entertainment.
Former BCOP chair Pat Whitley cuts the ribbon to officially open the newly refurbished Robert Harvey House.
34
20/12/13
13:07
Page 1
34
CARINGCOMMERCE
A light-hearted moment at the topping out ceremony of Barry Extra Care, with (front row, from left) Mike Talbot, chairperson of Hafod Care Association Ltd, councillor Stuart Egan, Vale of Glamorgan, deputy leader and cabinet member for adult services, councillor Gwyn John, cabinet member for leisure, parks, culture and sport and councillor Chris Elmore, cabinet member for children's services. Osborne House in Selby.
Provider’s 11th facility set to create 100 jobs NORTH East and Yorkshire provider Crown Care is set to open its 11th residential care centre, creating 100 jobs. Osborne House in Selby will comprise of 74 bedrooms with ensuite shower facilities and a specialist unit providing a comprehensive clinically-led physical and psychological recovery programme for adults with complex care needs when it opens. It will also have a library, IT suite and café and will cater for all categories of care, including residential, nursing, dementia, permanent, specialist and respite.
The company also has planning permission for homes in Knottingley, Wakefield and Ponteland, Northumberland, which it hopes to build to open in 2014. Group director Michael Ladhar said: “While many building projects have stalled due to the recession, we have continued to invest – creating homes and care centres to the highest possible standards, making the environment as comfortable as we can for our residents and guests.” Ladhar Group care homes recently changed its name to Crown Care and is undergoing a rebranding at existing homes while continuing to build.
New £7.2m scheme tops out A TRADITIONAL topping out ceremony has been held at Golau Caredig, a new high-quality extra care apartment scheme for older residents in Barry. The £7.2m scheme of 42 apartments is under construction on the site of the town’s former Theatre Royal. As part of the ceremony, dignitaries raised a yew tree to the top of the building, a Scandinavian tradition which was brought to Britain with the Vikings, marking the milestone of the building reaching its highest point. The event was held by Leadbitter, a Bouygues UK company, which is building the scheme, and its client Hafod Care Association (part of the Hendre Group), which will provide care and support for residents. They were joined by
representatives of the Vale of Glamorgan county borough council. Robert Wathen, managing director of Hafod Care, said: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with the Vale of Glamorgan, the Welsh Government and Leadbitter to provide what will be superb housing and support facilities for the people of Barry.” Golau Ceredig has been designed by Cardiff-based architectural practice, Pentan Partnership. The unique building will boast a restaurant on the top floor, together with an internal atrium to flood the building with natural light. Features of the original cinema, such as external iron columns and the projection room shutters, are being preserved and incorporated
35 badgemaster
18/12/13
16:10
Page 1
36
20/12/13
13:06
Page 1
36
CARINGNEWS
Suffolk care home acquired by London-based provider
Number eight Laurie McGlone, prop Alan Paver, Gemma Brenton from the Swallowcourt Group, former player Harry Matthews, Sue Godfrey, manager of the dementia care unit, and Pirates media officer Phil Westren. Photo credit: Brian Tempest.
Cornish Pirates players visit resident Harry A CORNISH care home resident received a special visit from Cornish Pirates rugby players. Harry Matthews, an 88-year-old resident of Trevaylor Manor in Penzance, is a former player and lifelong supporter of the club. The visit gave him the chance to relive his glory days as he chatted to prop Alan Paver, number eight Laurie McGlone and media officer Phil Westren from the club. The players also brought along a selection of old photographs and programmes for Harry. The visit was the idea of Sue Godfrey, manager of the dementia care unit and coincided with the Swallowcourt Group’s recent
sponsorship of the Pirates. She said: “Although suffering from advanced onset dementia, Harry still has a very keen interest in rugby and he regularly listens to the Pirates games on the radio. “It is amazing to see how he just clicked into it all. He even made sure we remembered his Pirates tie this morning. “These are obviously memories that will stay with him for a long time and it just goes to show how powerful reminiscence can be.” Harry was born in Newlyn and learnt to play rugby at Truro School. He served in the Royal Navy during World War II and also had a spell of playing rugby for Bristol.
HECTOR and Mary Jackson have sold their Suffolk care home in order to retire after 19 years of ownership. Manor Farm in Kessingland near Lowestoft has built up an enviable reputation under the ownership of the Jacksons, and now forms the platform for the new owners – London based care group KRG Care Homes – who plan to expand further into the eastern region. The home continues to trade on as before, caring for 25 elderly residents in the comfort of the manor house building, which stands in two-acre grounds. The property includes three lounges, a dining room, commercial kitchen, five bathrooms and bedroom accommodation. Robert Mellamphy, director of Christie+Co, who sold the home, said: “There was substantial interest shown in this home primarily from experienced care operators who we
Manor Farm in Kessingland. are in contact with on a local, national and international basis. “There is a growing appetite from prospective buyers and investors in the care sector who wish to build their businesses by providing high quality care and accommodation for their residents and this is particularly the case in this region.”
Gompels introduce pull-up range GOMPELS HealthCare Ltd have introduced a new range of pull ups that give users greater dignity and allow many to stop using all-in-ones. The new pull ups have a new improved shape and are made of a soft cotton feel fabric for maximum comfort and discretion. They are made of a lightweight material that contains super
absorbent powder allowing many users to move from wearing all-inones. They also have a greater size range due to better elasticity and are easy to remove through tearing side seams. The Gompels pull ups are also a fraction of the price of most regular pull ups and are available from as little as 36p each.
Work begins on 20-bed extension WORK has commenced at Inwood House Care Home in Horbury, Wakefield to construct a 20 bed extension and refurbishment of the existing facility. The home has been owned and run by husband and wife team Richard and Wendy Barraclough since 1983, and currently is home to 35 clients. Funding to support the development work has been provided by The Royal Bank of Scotland. Wendy said: “Having one care home means that we know everyone personally – residents and
staff alike, and we are proud of the reputation we have built up over the years. This is a very exciting time for us as we start work on the expansion of the home. Not only are we increasing the number of beds but we are also adding a new reception area, orangery, a new hairdressing room, residents’ cafe and specialist bathing facilities. This huge investment will also bring much needed new employment opportunities to the area.” The owners hope to complete the new extension and refurbishment plans by April.
Simon Reevell MP (centre) with Shackletons employee Mick Murphy and operations manager Michael Bentley.
Health+Care adds two MP’s visit marks furniture new sectors to event manufacturer’s success THE inaugural Health+Care event ran alongside the largest national event for clinical commissioning in June 2013. The combined events saw more than 6,000 of the most senior professionals in social and healthcare transcend on Excel, London. Health+Care will return to Excel on June 25-26 with two major new additions to the shows’ already extensive conference programme and exhibition floor. The Care Commissioning and Public Health Shows will join the Integrated Care Conference, Home Care and Residential Care shows that already sit under the Health+Care banner. Bringing care commissioning and public health into the show fold
means Health+Care will have the full complement of education and innovation for a wider audience to share best integrated care practice to make a difference locally and meet the challenges of an ageing population. There will be vast networking opportunities for professionals from children and adults service commissioning and delivery, social and primary care, to all areas of public health. Speakers already confirmed include Dr Maggie Atkinson, children’s commissioner for England, Andrea Sutcliffe, chief inspector of adult social care, CQC and professor Mike Kelly, director of the centre of public health at NICE.
SIMON Reevell, Conservative MP for Dewsbury and Mirfield and member of the All-Party Parliamentary Furniture Industry Group, made a special visit to Yorkshire based Shackletons. The specialist care furniture manufacturer welcomed the MP to its headquarters to learn about how their lean manufacturing systems and research and development division is putting them ahead in meeting the needs of the care sector; and contributing to the massive upturn in contracts and enquiries from savvy operators looking to stand out from the crowd. Simon had the opportunity to learn about the company’s innovations in
production line management and care product design. He also had the rare opportunity to speak to some of the most skilled and experienced care furniture craftsmen in the country. Martyn Higgins, managing director of Shackletons said: “We were eager to demonstrate to Mr Reevell how our company is setting a national standard. It was a huge compliment when he likened our operations to those of Nissan and serves to confirm our belief that lean manufacturing should play a key role in a business like ours.” Shackletons employ 70 people – a manufacturing and operations facility in Dewsbury and a retail site in Batley.
37
20/12/13
13:06
Page 1
37
CARINGPRODUCT NEWS
New assisted bathing brochure from specialists Gainsborough PART of the highly respected Care in Bathing Group, Gainsborough Specialist Bathing has been a leading choice for the design, installation and after-sales support of assistive baths since the 1980s. It has just introduced a new brochure that details its range of integrated bathing solutions for the care environment which now includes assisted baths, showers, wet rooms and patient hoists. This recently launched 48-page brochure is an essential resource for all care home providers, building contractors and healthcare professionals. It includes comprehensive technical information and product specifications for all of Gainsborough’s specialist product range. There is also a helpful bath selection tool and care level guide so that the most appropriate product
finance package in the market for you, we will guide your application through the process to ensure a prompt response. Once funding is secured, our consultants will continue to liaise on your behalf to ensure a quick completion. At all stages Chandler & Co representatives will be on hand to offer the best advice. Enquiries: Call 01622 817484, email info@chandlerandco.co.uk or visit www.chandlerandco.co.uk
Impey Showers re-engineers the shower seat can be quickly identified depending on task, patient and application suitability.
New Magnum Spreader is ready to work hard this winter DMMP Limited has unveiled a new Magnum spreader which has joined the Leicestershirebased’s company’s stable of expert winter tools and machinery. It is simple to use, maintain and store so will have a positive impact on the way many organisations deal with ice and snow this winter. The Magnum Poly Insert Spreader sits neatly on the back of a three-quarter or one ton pick-up, and effortlessly deals with the issue of spreading salt when ice and snow is expected. The spreader’s unique design has been created to allow easy access and maintenance. The spreader has a capacity of 1.14m3 -1.52 m3 and has been designed for simplicity of use. DMMP managing director Marcus Palmer said: “We are thrilled to be launching the new Magnum insert spreader range. “We’re really impressed with it and believe that it will make light work of the tough seasonal task of ice and snow management, which many
Independent healthcare finance CHANDLER & Co has been finance specialists in the healthcare sector since 1995. Our bespoke finance packages cover all aspects of funding for acquisition, refinance, development, expansion and financial re-structuring. Chandler & Co’s status as an independent healthcare specialist means we have strong links with a comprehensive range of lenders. The combined experience of the Partners including financial, management and care home ownership offers first hand knowledge and expertise in the healthcare sector. As we offer a unique service to the market we have access to the lowest margins, 25 year loan terms, base rate lending and up to 100 per cent finance options available. Once we have identified the best lender and
WETROOM specialist Impey Showers has revealed a revolutionary new shower seat in association with a leading UK occupational therapist. The company had been inundated by requests from customers of all ages and abilities for a accessible yet stylish shower seat. Shower seats are an essential bathroom item for those with mobility issues. They enable a person to enjoy showering as independently as possible but traditional shower seats are very clinical in appearance, bulky, create trip hazards, act as dirt traps and can damage floors. Available in 10 colours, Impey’s SlimFold shower seat is stylish, safe and functional and bears weight of up to 47 stone. When folded, the SlimFold shower seat has a profile of 111mm and the shower bench has a profile of 55mm. The thin profile enables the shower door to fold fully inwards without colliding with the seat. The wetroom experts teamed up with leading UK occupational therapist and interior designer, Elaine Hollerhead, to design and produce the SlimFold. Elaine had been troubled about the lack of a modern, inclusively designed shower seat available on the market for a number of years.
Enquiries: Visit www.impeyshowers.com/slimfold or call 01460 256 090.
Simple solutions organisations will face in the coming months.” Enquiries: Call 0845 643 9776 or visit www.dmmp.co.uk
SINCE 1982, Colne (Lancs) based, Richards Residential Supplies have concentrated upon supplying simple solutions to common nursing home problems. The new WACMAT® adheres strongly to this tradition. With its ultra absorbent cotton pile and 100 per cent waterproof backing, the remarkable WACMAT® is an ideal accessory where spills may occur. Used as a commode mat, in bedrooms or bathrooms, the WACMAT® ensures full carpet protection. Then, after use, simply machine wash and tumble dry! It’s that simple... The WACMAT® will then be clean and odour-free, ready to perform time and time again. Alternatively the flat-laying WACMAT® can be used as an entrance mat, saving you hundreds of pounds in rental costs alone. Enquiries: Telephone 0800 074 3749.
Claim VAT back on your home even if you are not VAT registered Knightsbridge furniture comes down your way CONTRACT furnishings specialist Knightsbridge Furniture is out on the road, thanks to the company’s smart new mobile showroom. Intended to present Knightsbridge collections of contract seating and occasional furniture in the most client-convenient manner possible, the liveried Mercedes-Benz Atego truck can display up to 20 items of furniture in its cavernous 50ft trailer – from upholstered seating and upright chairs to dining tables and bedroom cabinets. Models are selected for each visit according to customer requirements, with options including products for nursing homes and healthcare environments, residential facilities and the
hospitality sector. Behind the wheel is experienced HGV driver Chris Mann, who promises to manoeuvre the vehicle into even the tightest car parks to enable new and existing customers to explore the company’s latest collections ‘in the flesh’. Refreshment facilities are on board, as are extensive literature stocks covering all Knightsbridge divisions. Enquiries: To book a visit, call 01274 731900, e-mail enquiries@knightsbridgefurniture.co.uk or visit www.knightsbridge-furniture.co.uk
IT is true, care providers can reclaim VAT worth about £3,000 per bed for any residents who stayed in your home between 1993 and 2002 paid for by the local authority. You don’t have to be VAT registered to make a claim. We can usually find the information required with minimal disruption to your business. How is this possible? Well in 2002 a care provider called Kingscrest challenged the view held by HMRC and won. There is no cost to you unless we are successful. Typical claims: 50 beds – £240,000; 40 beds – £170,000; 287 beds – £1.25m. And the best part is that you get the money in your bank account before you pay us. Don’t forget the tax repayment is free of tax – it is extra profit.
Enquiries: Call 01233 640985 and ask for Howard to find out more.
38 classis
20/12/13
13:10
Page 1
38
Badging staff meets CQC Outcome 4C
Steve Massey, regional manager of Bondcare North East, presents Norene with her retirement cake with residents Fred Munn and Isabella Jenkins.
Much-loved manager retires RESIDENTS and members of staff at Lansbury Court in Sunderland said farewell to one of its much-loved members of staff who retired after 12 years as manager at the elderly care home. Norene Johnson, who started her career in the sector in 1969 as a state registered nurse, enjoyed a surprise retirement party to celebrate her years working for Bondcare, which included refreshments and a cake.
Safer Bathing
Norene said: “It was such a fantastic surprise to be treated with a special party to say thank you and farewell. “It was sad saying goodbye to all the lovely residents and members of staff at Lansbury Court, but I am looking forward to a bit of leisure time.” Steve Massey, regional manager of Bondcare North East, presented Norene with a jewellery box, and members of staff bought her earrings and a necklace to put in it.
SINCE 2010 healthcare practices regulated by the CQC must meet service delivery criteria including the clear identification of individual staff members. The guidance publication entitled ‘Essential standards of quality and safety’ specifies that, for providers to achieve the required standard of care and welfare of people who use their healthcare services, their users “can be confident that, wherever possible, they will know the names and job titles of the people who provide their care, treatment and support” (part of outcome 4C). Compliance with this standard is simple, according to Badgemaster, the UK’s leading supplier of name Medicare provided the nursecall system to a new care home in Stoke-on-Trent which was officially opened by darts legend Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor. The Nottinghamshire based firm provided Safe Harbor’s Agnes and Arthur Care Home with 14" large display panels audio, full colour touch screen, with call logging (records and times all events that occur through the nurse call system). They also supplied Elogging – call logging that can be accessed 24/7 through an internet enabled device anywhere in the world. Paul Smith, Medicare Nurse Call Systems’ northern director, is pictured with Phil Taylor at the opening.
Architects
Transport
Signs
badges. Managing director John Bancroft said: “Providing name badges to customer-facing staff is a proven and very cost-effective solution to the CQC regulations.” Nottinghamshire-based for 21 years, Badgemaster designs and manufactures ready-to-wear employee name badges for thousands of hospitals, surgeries and care homes, and well understands the needs of healthcare professionals. Badgemaster’s experience suggests that its own high product and service quality is greatly valued where time and budget come under pressure.
39 Courtney Thorne
18/12/13
16:12
Page 1
40 shackletons
20/12/13
11:06
Page 1