Caring May 2023

Cuts in funding are a betrayal, providers claim

ANGRY care providers say a Government cut in funding for the sector’s workforce is yet another cruel betrayal of a sector looking after the country’s most vulnerable.

It has been confirmed that £500m earmarked to help train the social care workforce has been halved to £250m.

The Independent Care Group says the news comes at a time when the sector is in crisis and needs an increase rather than cuts in funding.

It is also calling for longoverdue plans for social care reform to be published straight away and not “within weeks”.

ICG chair Mike Padgham said: “This is yet another cruel and unfair cut to the funding we need to provide help and support to older and vulnerable people.

“The sector is going through an unprecedented staffing crisis with 165,000 vacancies crippling our delivery of care. We need every penny of funding and cannot afford to have £250m removed at a stroke like this.

“The Government insists that all promised funding will stay within the sector but we cannot believe a word they tell us anymore. The sector is suffering demise by a thousand cuts and the people who will suffer most are the 1.6m people who cannot get care and the hundreds of

thousands more who are finding they need help and support, every day.”

The ICG is angry that longpromised reform of the sector keeps being put back with the Government now saying plans will be announced “within weeks”.

“It cannot be acceptable that government after government keeps on delaying reform to the social care sector,” Mike added.

“We are now being told that plans will be announced “within weeks” – how many times have we been told that before? And that will just be the plan – we could wait months or even years for reform to begin.

“Meanwhile the number of people waiting for care, now at 1.6m, continues to grow and care and nursing homes and homecare providers are closing.

“On a daily basis people are having to sell their home to pay for the care they need and more and more people living with dementia are having to pay for care whilst others with equally serious illnesses get their treatment and care on the NHS.

“Care providers cannot afford to pay their staff properly and so the list of vacancies continues to grow, crippling the delivery of care.

“This cannot go on any longer. It is a state of affairs that shames a civilised country like ours.”

Preparations to mark His Majesty the King’s coronation next month are well underway, and for a special celebration at its Didsbury home, older people residing at Belong Morris Feinmann care village are busy rehearsing for their performance of a lifetime – with a little help from Manchester choir master extraordinaire, Dan McDwyer. Newly formed, The Tomforte Community Choir meets weekly to practise its harmonies ahead of the event on May 6 which will see the ensemble, many of whom are living with dementia, perform for fellow residents, family and friends as part of the coronation festivities programme.

Awards nominations now open

OPERATORS wanting to put themselves forward for recognition have been urged to enter the Caring UK Awards. Nominations for this year’s event are now open at www.caringukawards.co.uk

The awards, organised by Script Events in partnership with Caring UK, recognise excellence and achievement in all corners of the care industry. And with more than 20 categories up for grabs, there’s something to suit every type of care business.

These include everything from Quality in Housekeeping and Catering Team of the Year to Best Outdoor Environment and End of Life Team of the Year.

Event organiser Dominic Musgrave said: “Nominations are coming in and our

events team is already busy ensuring that this year’s event is even bigger and better.

“Our main aim is to recognise and honour the best in our wonderful sector and showcase the innovation and dedication that goes on every day so please share your successes and tell us about your hard work and initiatives by sending in your nominations … it’s a real privilege to read them.”

A shortlist in each category will then be drawn up, with winners chosen by an expert panel following a visit by a member of the Caring UK team.

Trophies will be handed out at a ceremony at the Athena in Leicester on Thursday, December 7 presented by television presenter Emma Jesson.

Home Managers, Kitchen Staff & Healthcare Workers

Care Certificate and COVID-19 trained

Candidates ready to start within 48 hours

One fixed hourly rate whether day, night or weekend shifts

Flexible 3 – 12 month contracts

Valid DBS checks & references

Preferred agency for EU healthcare workers

Romanian, Portuguese, Polish and Italian spoken candidates

0800 888 6165

Manager

Cook Home

Operator supports relief charity

CANFORD Healthcare has donated medical/care equipment and supplies to the Tunbridge Wells-based Ukrainian Relief Group for use by the medical services in war-torn Ukraine, as well as refugees arriving in the UK.

Following an appeal by the URG in late 2022, the care home operator arranged for its volunteers to pick up items that were not currently in use.

These included 30 beds and other furniture, wheelchairs, hoists, support equipment, fire extinguishers, personal protective equipment, old bedding (including sheets for cutting up and using as wound dressings), a CD player and a piano.

The beds are now being put to good use in Lviv and frontline hospitals in Kherson and Dnipro, while the other equipment has gone to other hospitals (including one for soldier amputees), GP surgeries, medical centres and dentists in Kiev and other cities.

This is just one part of the 60 tonnes of donations of supplies and equipment that the URG has collected and sent to Ukraine since the conflict began a year ago.

The group is co-ordinated by Rich Akehurst a seasoned ex-soldier, search expert, paramedic and medical instructor.

It all started last March when Rich and his Ukrainian wife Inna got together several boxes of their own items for the

relief effort.

They ended up collecting and co-ordinating donations within the local area and, thanks to the generosity of residents, these were so numerous that a main road into the town had to be closed for a few hours.

Rich and Inna are assisted by volunteer Sue Ramsay, who previously worked in Iraq, Afghanistan, Sierra Leone and Pakistan with UK Aid, plus 12-15 other core volunteers at the TN2 community centre (known as the Hub) that is currently the URG’s home, and made temporarily available by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

Some donations are earmarked for Ukraine while others are made available

for refugees.

Volunteers use their assorted skills and knowledge to fix, renovate and service equipment, including 200 push bikes destined for refugees.

The Hub also acts as a welcome centre where Ukrainian refugees can meet up, receive donations of clothes, shoes, toys, bicycles and household items and children can play in safety. Other items are sold at a pop-up shop in the town centre.

“We welcome refugees (or ‘guests’, as we call them), and try to help them get their lives back to some sort of normality. We also provide everything from socks to sofas, deliver furniture for free and recycle items that we can’t use, so nothing is wasted,” said Rich. There have been – and still are – many challenges. “Despite these, the URG has gone from strength to strength, and that’s a great achievement,” Rich added.

“It’s been incredible. We have received some extraordinary and often valuable donations, including an ostrich egg and even a blood bank.

“When we put out a message on social media asking for a guitar for a young Ukrainian refugee, we were offered 12 within an hour.

“We’re also incredibly grateful for the use of a van donated by the Polish government and for a continuous supply of knitted toys and blankets from the readers of Woman’s Weekly magazine.”

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Village relaunches its postcard plea

RESIDENTS at Richmond Villages Nantwich have recently relaunched their postcard plea, which they started just before the pandemic.

The retirement village is requesting that people who are planning a holiday this year send them a postcard from that destination.

Children’s bells ring out

HANDBELL ringers as young as 10 staged an ‘a-pealing’ afternoon of songs at a Dorset care home, encouraging residents to join in.

Colten Care’s Bourne View in Poole welcomed a party of six enthusiastic players from St Michael’s Middle School in Colehill, Wimborne. Among the 10 melodies they performed were Ode to Joy, Edelweiss, Bobby Shaftoe and Cockles and Mussels. Each ringer read from their own musical score and wore gloves to avoid their fingers tarnishing the metal.

Companionship Team member

Corinne Wareham said: “Around 20 residents and a few family members gathered to watch the performance in our Sandbanks lounge.

“Before we knew it the residents were all singing along and we were delighted to hear some harmonies

coming from the back row.”

The visit came about after Ruth Atkin, a retired teacher from the school, asked Corinne if the residents would like to hear the children play.

Corinne added: “Most of the 10 and 11-year-olds have only been playing for a year or two but they have become quite confident and like to play to an audience.

“Since many of our residents really appreciate live performances and music, I knew this would go down really well.

“This was a lovely interactive experience. The sound of the bells was truly enchanting and the feedback we had from our residents was wonderful.

“There was a really happy, uplifting feel around the home after the school had departed. If only we could bottle that feeling.”

Residents from Richmond Villages Nantwich launched the initiative in 2020 and received cards from all over the world, both from individuals enjoying their vacations and those who lived abroad.

Unfortunately it wasn’t long until the pandemic put a stop to residents receiving these postcards, however, they would like to bring the initiative back for 2023.

Due to many people in the care home no longer being able to enjoy trips away, receiving these postcards from holidaymakers helps them to recall happy memories.

Jane Ann Stubbs,activities manager at Richmond Villages Nantwich, said: “Both our residents and staff loved receiving postcards from around the world in 2020, so we are thrilled to be able to relaunch this initiative again in 2023.

“We all loved hearing about other people’s travels and adventures, and it enabled our residents to recall their previous travel memories and share these with staff and fellow residents. “Collecting these postcards brings so much joy and excitement to the village and we are thoroughly looking

forward to receiving them again.”

In 2020 residents received several postcards from local jet-setter Katheryn, who was traveling around Tasmania at the time. She would send a new postcard every time she arrived at a new part of the island so residents could follow her journey.

If you have a holiday planned, whether that be in the UK or abroad, and would like to send the residents of Richmond Villages Nantwich a postcard, their address is Richmond Villages Nantwich, St Joseph’s Way, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6LZ.

Roselea House Care Home in Fife hosted a storybook tea party to bring added magic to the residents’ afternoon brew. The celebrations saw residents and staff bring their favourite literary characters to life, dressing as characters ranging from the Cat in the Hat to the formidable Sherlock Holmes. Residents and their families tucked into a delicious spread, complete with an Alice in Wonderland themed cake baked by chefs at the home. Manager Ruth Goodman said: “All the residents had a brilliant time at our tea party. The home looked incredible with the decorations, and everyone got into the fantasy spirit.” Staff organised the tea party as part of a weekly activity programme to keep residents happy and healthy.

Pictured is resident Jim Galbraith.

Residents awarded prize in local art competition

RESIDENTS at a Bristol care home have been highly commended in an art competition.

Residents at Care UK’s Trymview Hall put their artistic skills to good use, and entered The Brain Art Competition run by Royal West of England Academy and the University of Bristol.

Focussing on the theme of ‘connections’, residents worked together to create wax rubbings of a selection of foraged natural materials, including leaves and seed heads, arranged in the shape of a brain.

Residents were thrilled to find out they were highly commended in the community groups category.

To celebrate their success, residents Jean Gazzard, aged 92, and Maureen Bailey, aged 87, attended a prizegiving ceremony at the RWA where they were able to see their work on display, as well as receive a certificate commending the home’s efforts.

Maureen said: “I love the art we created – we had a lot of fun and worked really well together.

“It was wonderful to have it recognised like this and displayed at the gallery.”

As part of an ongoing initiative between the home and RWA, residents also attend dementiafriendly gallery viewings and tours of new exhibitions, as well as having

the opportunity to participate in art projects, often led by an in-house artist.

Nicola Wolff-Donitz, customer relations manager at Trymview Hall, added: “Residents were thrilled when they found out their artwork had been highly commended in The Brain Art Competition and were incredibly excited to see their hard work on display.

“Many of the residents here love art – and it’s a great way to support

wellbeing and independence, as well as being a lot of fun.

“It was great to listen the residents share stories of nature from their own lives – fond memories of days spent in the garden and woodland walks –as well as learn some interesting facts.

“I’d like to say a huge congratulations to everyone for their hard work on this project, and extend a big thanks to RWA for such a fun opportunity – we’re already looking forward to entering again next year.”

A West Sussex care home resident celebrated her 102nd birthday with family and friends. Ellen Bolger was joined by residents and staff at Deerswood Lodge in Crawley for the celebration. Born in County Wexford in Ireland, Ellen was the only girl of a family of five. Ellen met Patrick, her husband, in Dublin in 1942 when he was a chef in the army. They married and went on to have seven children –four boys and three girls. They moved to England in 1967 and both started working in a reformed school for boys in West Grinstead – Patrick as a chef and Ellen doing domestic work. She then went on to study to become a residential social worker, a job that she loved. Then, in 1978, the pair returned to Ireland for a couple of years before Patrick passed away and Ellen returned to England to live with her daughter in Horsham. Ellen has 23 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren and four greatgreat grandchildren.

Jean Gazzard, Nicola Wolff-Donitz, customer relations manager at Trymview Hall, Helen Jacobs, learning and participation manager at RWA, Maureen Bailey and Patricia Sanchez, lifestyle lead at Trymview Hall.

Little to stir the sap of care providers

SPRING is in the air and it appears things start to have a fresh, new beginning feel about them.

It is, usually, a time for optimism and looking forward to the warmth of summer ahead.

It is a time when nature reawakens after a long, bleak winter.

For some businesses and organisations, this is a time for their conferences and seminars, to share new ideas and fresh thinking.

But for the Government it seems, at least as far as social care is concerned, the hibernation continues.

There has been very little to stir the sap of care providers in recent weeks.

We are used to the Government ignoring warnings of problems within the care of our most vulnerable.

So, it came as no surprise when a report led by Warwick Business School went unanswered.

It said the Government had failed to support social care properly after the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic had subsided, contributing to the current crisis the sector is now in.

But when this report was published the government did not respond and continued with its sleep on this big issue, as it has for some years now.

What are we to conclude on this inaction over social care?

Maybe that the Government is keeping its powder dry for a big announcement – the long-promised

reform and overhaul of the sector perhaps?

Finally, the funding we need to tackle the 165,000 staffing vacancies, stop the home and domiciliary care closures and provide care for the 1.6m who are currently going without?

I’m not holding my breath.

Rather I fear that the Government has nothing more to say on social care aside perhaps from some minor tinkering and tweaking here and there.

As far as social care is concerned, it has run out of ideas if indeed it ever had any. Which, if true, is very worrying.

It suggests we are going to have to wait until the next General Election

before there is the chance of any new suggestions of where we are heading with social care reform.

That could be 18 months away and a lot of irreparable damage could be done to the care of the vulnerable in that time. How many more care and nursing homes and domiciliary care providers will close? How many more people will have to go without the care they need because funding continues to be cut?

And even when the manifestos are published, what guarantee is there that social care will be a high priority for any of the political parties with a chance to taking power? It hasn’t exactly been front and centre at the last few polls.

Maybe the answer is for social care providers to stand for election themselves next year…

Okay, so the chances of actual election might be slim on such a single-issue electoral ticket, but at least it would show to the public and to politicians the strength of feeling and concern for the plight of social care and provide a platform to air the issues.

Before then, it isn’t too late for this Government to show that it hasn’t totally run out of steam on social care. One of the problems is a lack of understanding of the issues at the heart of the Department of Health and Social Care.

But care providers are more than ready and willing to help and advise the Government on the things that need to change to help social care tackle the crisis. It isn’t all about money but tackling the critical staffing shortages has to be a high priority. We have to find a way to properly reward the workforce – a workforce that continues to work, day in day out, without resorting to strike action – despite being underpaid and undervalued.

They at least deserve parity with their NHS counterparts who are being better rewarded after, in some cases, taking to the picket lines.

The signs are not encouraging.

Far from supporting the sector, the Government continues to cut funding – witness the recent halving of the workforce development budget from £500m to £250m – hardly the act of a Government looking to make progress on the reform of our sector.

The Government needs to wake up from its winter slumbers on social care and show us that it cares for the sector and has a plan.

People are understandably disillusioned and have lost faith in politics and politicians.

But we cannot and should not have to wait until a General Election more than a year away before people who need support right now get come help.

AAT takes steps to help address adaptation delay

AAT the stairclimber people have developed an initiative to support adaptation delivery teams in reducing delay – cutting the process to a matter of days/weeks.

The result is achieved through prescription, where appropriate, of an AAT S-Max stairclimber with Universal Back.

The Class I Medical Device certified stairclimber manages the risk of navigating stairs, without the delay and disruption of alternative stair transfer methods.

The addition of the Universal Back to the stairclimber means each “passenger” is correctly positioned and secure during the transfer process, with an accessory that can easily adapt to their requirements as their condition changes- and those of another user in the future.

The combination provides a proven, safe way of enabling someone with reduced mobility to access all levels of their home environment achievable in a matter of days: the combination of S-Max and Universal Back can be delivered to the client within a working week of receipt of order.

The speed of delivery is complimented by AAT’s assessment managers, who endeavour to be with the client, and undertake the free, no obligation assessment, within 10 working days.

“Someone’s ability to navigate stairs in one of the most common issues requiring an adaptation or delaying hospital discharge,” said Peter Wingrave, AAT director.

“Our S-Max/Universal Back combo is, where appropriate, a viable, practical solution.

“It can be delivered within a working week of order, with full training given. It requires no structural alteration to the home, nor installation.

If/when no longer needed, it can be taken into stores and re-issued – expediating another adaptation without the need for grant funding.

“It can help prevent future admission/

re-admission, by reducing the risk of a fall on the stairs- one of the top home hazards.

“With the current, and ongoing pressure on NHS and social care services, surely it makes sense, where reasonable and practical, to make use of such resources?”

Enquiries: Further details of the AAT S-Max and Universal Back can be found at https://www.aatgb.com/s-max/ or by emailing

In his latest in a series of regular columns, care provider Mike Padgham, who is chair of the Independent Care Group, gives us his personal take on the big issues facing social care.

Mike Padgham

Provider is first to gain ‘Gold Status’

ANCHOR, England’s largest not-forprofit provider of specialist housing and care for people in later life, has been awarded ‘Gold Status’ in the 2023 Inclusive Employers Standard, becoming the first housing and care provider to do so.

The accolade follows the Bronze award status Anchor achieved in 2020 and the Silver Award status achieved 18 months ago.

Perfect party for home’s landmark anniversary

PINEWOOD Residential Home, a Maria Mallaband Care Home Group home located just outside St Helier, has celebrated three decades of service to the community with a big birthday party and a week of thank you events, with more than 100 people taking part.

The 48-bed residential home pulled out all the stops in honour of the special milestone, with an abundance of decorations, balloons and bunting, and an anniversary party.

This event saw those living in the home gather with their relatives, as well as current and some former members of staff, for a buffet lunch and live music from a local musician.

Care home lifestyle coordinator Ioana Adler said: “It’s not every day you get to celebrate turning 30, so we were determined to make this an occasion to remember.

“I am so grateful for all those that took part and made it so special –everyone living here at Pinewood with us had the most wonderful time.

“It gave us an opportunity to look

back at many good times, to show our appreciation to everyone who has worked with us, supported us, and been part of the life of the home, and to look ahead too.

“We are so proud of the service we’ve provided to this community for three decades, and that we hope to continue offering the best possible care environment for many decades to come.”

Visitors to the home have been able to look over a photo archive display, with photos stretching back to the home’s grand opening event in 1993, as well as other anniversaries and special events along the way.

There was also an abundant display of some of the many thank you cards received by the home and its team over the years.

The week of the anniversary was devoted to thanking the community, with coffee and cake stations set up at the entrance to the home every day to welcome all visitors. Over the course of the celebrations some 100 visitors, residents and staff took part.

Anchor is a member of Inclusive Employers, which provides expert advice and support to workplaces who are committed to inclusion and accredits those meeting the Inclusive Employers Standard.

The housing and care provider is only the third organisation that Inclusive Employers works with to achieve Gold status.

Sarah Jones, chief executive at Anchor, said: “While we know there’s always more we can do, we’re absolutely delighted to have achieved Gold accreditation from Inclusive Employers, recognising us as among the best employers in the UK when it comes to equality, diversity and inclusion.

“For us to have done this only 18 months since we achieved Silver is a mark of the hard work and firm commitment of so many across the organisation to inclusion in the workplace.”

Anchor works with residents and colleagues to ensure inclusion is part of their everyday approach and has been focused on creating a workplace where all colleagues can thrive.

The operator has given particular effort on embedding its inclusion practices by ensuring leaders and colleagues understand how the whole organisation is responsible for making diversity and inclusion an everyday reality.

Anchor has also utilised the

many resources and practices it has to further inclusion within the organisation.

Teagan Robinson-Bell, equality, diversity and inclusion manager at Anchor, added: “It’s incredible to work for an organisation that not only cares about its colleagues and residents but shows a willingness to improve and embed a culture of inclusion.

“I am thrilled to see Anchor’s progress to Gold after being awarded Silver 18 months ago.

“It really demonstrates the organisation’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“We’re the first provider of care and housing to be awarded Gold and I’ve really enjoyed watching our colleagues drive our diversity and inclusion agenda within their teams too.

“We’re dedicated to being a truly diverse and inclusive organisation, and this award recognises that commitment.”

Resident completes wish to fly an aeroplane

A 93-year-old care home resident in Edinburgh has completed a wish –and she’s now on a real high.

Elizabeth (Betty) Buckland, a resident at Care UK’s Lauder Lodge, took to the skies and had the opportunity to soar 2,000ft above sea level.

She said: “It was a wonderful day and we had an amazing view of the Kelpies at Falkirk. Being in a small plane again was thrilling and brought back so many happy memories.”

Betty often visited America on holidays during her younger years to stay with her family in Seattle, and her cousin was a pilot who owned his own aircraft.

During these summer holidays, Betty sat alongside her cousin in his Piper PA-28 Cherokee plane – he occasionally even let her take the controls.

The flying session took place as part of the Wishing Tree, an initiative launched by Care UK which allows residents to suggest ideas for new hobbies they’d like to try, places

they’d like to visit or even activities linked to past careers.

This encourages residents to live fulfilling lives – from skiing to a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small.

After Betty shared her happy

holiday memories with the team and her dream to fly a plane once more, the team wasted no time getting the wish off the ground and soon the day came for the flight.

After the thrill of being up in the air in a Piper PA-28 Cherokee, Betty

was over the moon to hear she would be reaching new heights – this time flying in a Cessna aircraft and soaring over Edinburgh at 150mph.

They arrived at Royal Air Force Kirknewton, in Edinburgh, and after some training on the ground with the pilot, Andrew (Andy) Reid, whose mother-in-law was also a resident at Lauder Lodge, Betty took to the skies for a morning flight.

Home manager Anees Riaz added: “We love to go the extra mile for residents here, and our wishing tree is a fantastic way to understand what’s really important to residents.

“We are thrilled we could help Betty to reminisce and get the chance to soar high in a plane once again.

“It was a fantastic experience for everyone involved and it was wonderful to see the smile on Betty’s face as she landed after her flight.

“A big thank you to Andy again for helping to make this wish come true. I cannot wait to see what wish we organise next – the sky really is the limit.”

Sarah Jones

A good call – resident revisits fond memories

A HORNDEAN care home resident was thrilled when she was surprised with a switchboard just like the one she had worked on 72 years ago. When the team at Care UK’s Pear Tree Court learned that resident June Taylor, 88, was a former telephonist and was keen to relive her fond memories, they were determined to make her wish come true.

Home manager Pooja Dhoot said: “June often talks about when she used to work as a telephonist and how much she loved her job, and so we were thrilled to help reunite her with equipment she once used.

“We are always looking at ways we can encourage residents to live active and fulfilling lives and so we are delighted we could help June reminisce and share her experience with us.

“It was wonderful to see her face light up the minute she saw the switchboard and to hear so many stories from her younger years working as a telephonist.

“I’d like to thank the team for helping to organise the switchboard surprise and to June for sharing her

fascinating memories.”

June was born in Eastham in London on May 25, 1935.

When June left school at 16 years old she got herself a job at a small

company telephone exchange.

This was when June first worked on switchboards.

June then went to work on Regent Street in London at the Texaco oil

company.

Being fairly petite, June found it amusing that if the switchboard was very high she would have to stand on her chair to reach the top.

June married Gordon in 1955 and they had two boys and two girls. While her children were little, in the evenings June worked in the General Post Office as a telephonist.

She would work until 11pm and had to get the last bus home, while her husband looked after the children. She retired in 1986 after working as a telephonist for 36 years.

After the team learned of June’s rich history being a telephonist, they knew they wanted to do something to surprise her.

They organised for a replica switchboard to made in the home and June was reunited with the equipment she used every day.

June said: “There was nothing hard about my job, but the really good thing was that I enjoyed it.

“I have such fond memories and love the friendships I made over the years, so it was great to see a switchboard once again.”

Home wins innovative technology for residents

RESIDENTS at Peterlee Care Home are set to be silver surfers after the activities coordinator secured £7,000 worth of interactive equipment.

Laura Laidler-Jones recently undertook a Reminiscence Interactive Therapy Activities course through Durham County Council.

She was asked to explain how RITA would impact residents at Peterlee Care Home, detailing how it would benefit both dementia patients and residents with a learning disability, particularly at night if residents are unable to sleep.

Laura was one of only 12 participants who were successful, and the home is to receive a 24” interactive tablet and a 10” tablet.

Steve Massey, operations manager at Popular Care, said: “Laura has done a great job winning this fantastic equipment for the home.

“All the evidence shows that it will have a very positive effect on the residents and support staff in their

delivery of high quality care. I can’t wait to see the tablets in action.”

RITA is an all-in-one touch screen solution which offers digital reminiscence therapy, a relatively new tool in the fields of nursing and healthcare.

It is aimed at offering support for older people, people with mental health issues, learning difficulties and brain injuries as a means of supporting them and reducing their agitation, isolation, depression and delirium.

It has been proven to have significant benefits for care homes including a reduction in falls, reduction in hospital admissions, reduction in anti-psychotic and sleep medication, supporting dignity, respect and wellbeing for residents at the end of life, improving the quality of patient-centred and continuity of care and improved interaction between carers and residents and relatives and residents.

American artworks take pride of place at care home

ART lovers at a Dorset care home have welcomed a donation of two paintings created by the artist cousin of a former resident.

The watercolours, by the American painter Richard Atherstone Genders, have been put on display in a lounge at Colten Care’s Newstone House in Sturminster Newton.

Richard’s cousin Rosemary Cottrell was a resident at the home until her death in April 2022.

A year on, Rosemary’s daughter Jenny Cottrell has donated the pieces in her mother’s memory for fellow residents, staff and visitors to enjoy. Visiting Newstone House to hand over the paintings and give a talk to residents about her family, she said: “I couldn’t think of a better home for these pieces. It’s a pleasure to watch all the residents enjoy them.”

Born in London in 1919, Richard

for the founding of the colony of Pennsylvania.

His father William was a ‘rough rider’ in the US volunteer cavalry serving in Cuba and later joined the famous Buffalo Bill wild west travelling show.

Richard studied art after serving as a US naval medic in World War Two.

He continued to combine a military medical and artistic career, becoming a lieutenant in the Naval Reserve and exhibiting paintings and sketches at galleries and art shows across the country. He maintained studios while living in New England and Virginia and died in 1991.

One of the pictures is a limitededition print of a New England city scene with old brownstone buildings and aspects of café society.

The other is an original showing a New England woodland in autumn.

Manager Kayleigh Solomon with resident Maureen Steele and activities coordinator Laura Jones.

moved to the United States with his family and finished his schooling in Indiana.

He was a direct descendant on his mother’s side of William Penn, the English Quaker best known

Holding the two paintings are Jenny Cottrell and home manager April King. Seated with them and toasting the arrival of the works are residents Rita Clay and Pat Stear.

CATEGORIES

ACTIVITIES TEAM OF THE YEAR

BEST INITIATIVE IN CARE

BEST OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT AWARD

EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION IN DEMENTIA CARE

DEMENTIA CARE TEAM OF THE YEAR

CATERING TEAM OF THE YEAR

CARE EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

COMMITMENT TO TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AWARD

END OF LIFE TEAM OF THE YEAR

MANAGEMENT TEAM OF THE YEAR

QUALITY IN HOUSEKEEPING

CARE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

CARE GROUP OF THE YEAR

CARE TEAM OF THE YEAR

REGIONAL HOME OF THE YEAR - SCOTLAND

REGIONAL HOME OF THE YEAR - NORTH

REGIONAL HOME OF THE YEAR - SOUTH

REGIONAL HOME OF THE YEAR - MIDLANDS AND WALES

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Caring UK Awards 2023 are kindly sponsored by

IT’S TIME TO GET INVOLVED IN THE CARING UK AWARDS 2023 NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE

THE ATHENA,LEICESTER

Thursday 7th December 2023

Hosted by television personality Emma Jesson

“The Caring UK Awards is, quite rightly, the high point of the year for many in social care. The focus is entirely on the people delivering care and it was evident that recognition of their efforts meant so much to all the nominees. Catching up with old and new friends made for a great night and Fleurets is very proud to have been able to play our part in celebrating social care.”

Alison Willoughby, divisional director – head of healthcare, Fleurets

“The Fusion eCare Solutions team had the pleasure of supporting the Midlands & Wales Care Home of the Year Award. As category sponsors we cannot stress enough how happy we feel to be part of such a meaningful event that recognises the outstanding contribution of social care. A great night was enjoyed by all!”

Ben Richardson, business strategy and marketing manager, Fusion eCare Solutions Ltd

“The awards were a pleasant contrast to the usual bland hotel experiences that characterise other events. The venue was more intimate, interesting and better for networking and the entertainment was much better than the C list celebrities who generally host these things. The organisation was professional and the evening ran very smoothly. We will definitely attend again.”

Gosia Sara, ShareCare Systems Ltd

“It was a pleasure to sponsor the ‘commitment to training and development’ category for the second year. Continuously improving knowledge and skills is essential within the sector and those who do it exceptionally should be celebrated.”

Chris Grieveson, key account director (care sector), Learning Curve Group

“Virgin Money ws very proud to once again headline sponsor the Caring UK Awards. This is a fantastic event celebrating the best of the best care homes and recognising individual staff achievements from across the UK in social care”

Graham Harper, senior director (health and social care), Virgin Money

“We were delighted to be a sponsor of the Caring UK Awards 2022. It was a great night from the venue, to the food and the ceremony to the party – it was a real celebration of the industry.”

Donna Evans, Wolf Laundry

“Sommer Rose Interiors was honoured to be part of the Caring UK Awards once again this year. It was an amazing night celebrating all the brilliant work from the social care sector.”

Sarah Thompson, Sommer Rose Interiors

Compassionate care earns duo top accolade

TWO care home workers from Haywards Heath are celebrating after picking up top honours at the prestigious West Sussex Care Accolades.

Children parade through town as part of project

AROUND 60 school children took to the streets of Basildon dressed as scarecrows as part of a project intended to strengthen understanding of dementia amongst youngsters in the town.

The Fairhouse Primary School pupils and staff paraded through the town dressed as scarecrows as part of a new collaborative project with Mundy House care home, which connects the youngest and oldest members of society.

The school and care home have formed an intergenerational partnership as part of their involvement with The Archie Project, which works to connect local primary schools with older people, especially those in care homes.

The ambition is to dispel the fear and stigma often associated with dementia and create more dementiafriendly communities.

The project is already underway, with the school’s pupils spending time with the residents during arts

and crafts sessions.

The care home say the benefits are endless, reducing social isolation, loneliness and helping residents reminisce about their own childhoods.

Manager Josi George said: “Our residents have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the children, reading and taking part in different activities like painting and drawing.

“The children bring such great energy and enthusiasm into the home, it really brightens everyone’s day.

“The Archie Project, and schemes like it, are really important for the wellbeing of our residents and helps younger people be more sympathetic to older people who may be experiencing dementia.

“It reminds residents of happy memories with their own children, grandchildren or even great grandchildren, and gives the children a better understanding early on about how dementia effects people.”

Kirstyn Box and Ruud Oosterbaan, who are both wellbeing coordinators at Aria Care’s Walstead Place Care Home, were announced as winners in the Ancillary Worker category during a glitzy awards ceremony at the Chichester Park Hotel.

The West Sussex Care Accolades celebrate the important and challenging work that care workers do in providing support, care and companionship to residents in retirement homes.

Jacquie Ferguson, home manager at Walstead Place, who nominated the pair, said: “I am so proud of Kirstyn and Ruud for winning this award, but it doesn’t surprise me at all. Together they give joy and wonderment everyday to our residents.

“The residents are always telling them they are the best. They have written cards and letters to the fact. Each meeting we have with the residents they cannot praise them enough; the families extend this praise also and they are very much loved in all they do.

“The wider community of the church and other groups have all stated what a wonderful team they are together and they come as a package.

“Kirstyn and Ruud put their heart and soul into everything they do –this award is so well deserved.”

The pair are much loved by the residents at Walstead Place and have created a biography of every person there in order to devise a resident-led activities programme.

In addition to a packed schedule of activities, they also create special events such as the ‘Woscars’ to give residents a taste of award season and the opportunity to nominate staff for an award, as well as the Walstead Olympics, in which everyone takes part.

Walstead Place prides itself on the care it provides to residents and the team not only has an engaging activities programme, but also meticulously plans every part of daily life at the home to support and encourage as much independence as possible.

Home celebrates winning competition

RESIDENTS and staff at Maiden Castle House in Dorchester celebrated the change of seasons by taking part in an operator’s own Spring Food Festival.

Activities included creating a delicious and nutritious soup as part of a Care South wide competition. Maiden Castle House came first, winning a 5kg Easter egg, with Fremington Manor in Barnstaple coming second to receive a selection of chocolate carrot eggs.

Maiden Castle House chef Maria Barnes spent her free time foraging by rivers for wild garlic to make their soup before residents got stuck in with prepping the vegetables.

Activities lead Emma Norman said: “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the Spring Food Festival competition.

“Both residents and staff joined in with making a delicious recipe using special ingredients.

“It was wonderful to have been voted in first place and residents in our care are delighted that their hard work in helping with the soup has paid off.”

The Spring Food Festival was set up

by Care South to encourage a weeklong series of inclusive, themed activities including an inter-home seasonal soup competition. This encouraged homes to devise their own recipes with a focus on using fresh, local ingredients and including all residents in the fun.

The Food Festival coincided with

National Nutrition and Hydration

Week which is designed to help raise awareness to understand the importance of nutrition and hydration in health and social care. It was set up with Food, Fun and Friendship at its heart and residents across all of Care South’s homes took part in the occasion.

Mark Wardman, catering

operations manager, added: “Our Care South Spring Food Festival celebrated all the delicious, fresh food prepared in our care homes –an integral part of our Food, Fun and Friendship ethos.

“It was great to see so many of our homes taking part and creating some delicious recipes, whilst having lots of fun along the way.”

16th May

Blackpool Village Hotel 17th May

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12 things to consider when choosing home care management software

CHOOSING the combination of technologies your home care business needs to run efficiently is a hugely important decision.

You’ve probably already decided on Microsoft vs Google for work like word processing and spreadsheets but what about your home care management software?

There is a lot to consider before deciding what to invest in and making the wrong decision could be a costly mistake to undo going forwards.

But how do you go about making an informed and educated decision on what software to buy when there are so many software providers in the market?

Check out CareLineLive’s list of 12 things to consider before buying.

Use these tips to help guide the buying process so your team feels confident when making the final decision.

CareLineLive has put the tips together following feedback from their customers on what they were looking for and also based on their experiences of previous purchase decisions.

1. How much does home care software cost and what is the value?

2. How is home care management software pricing calculated?

3. Will costs change in the future?

4. Is the software company prepared to fix bugs?

5. How often do they push updates?

6. What about downtime?

7. What software do you need to integrate?

8. What about your legacy data?

9. What onboarding and ongoing support will the software provider offer?

10. Will you need additional development?

11. Check the T&Cs – how easy will it be for you to extract yourself from a contract if it doesn’t work out?

12. What kind of security does the software provide?

You’ll find more information about each of these 12 questions on the CareLineLive website at www. carelinelive.com/software

Whether you’re looking to invest in a new software system or you’re looking to replace a current solution, do make sure you ask these questions of your chosen software provider before you sign a contract.

All-in-one home care management software with simple, affordable and transparent pricing.

Discover the difference with CareLineLive.

Book a demo today and get 12 months for the price of 10.

time?

Fed up with paper-based processes? Invoicing and payroll a headache? Struggling with compliance or reporting? Looking to improve your communications across the circle of care?

CareLineLive is award-winning home care management software that will improve efficiency and capacity in your home care business. It’s easy-to-use and affordable.

Better systems mean better care.

Resident living with MND defies prognosis and publishes book

A CAMBERLEY care home resident has raised vital funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association following the launch of his new book which he wrote over three years aided by cutting edge technology.

The book of 21 poems, entitled Reflections of a Life Well Lived, provides a heart-warming and moving memoir of Robert Murphy’s life journey and subsequent Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis in January 2018.

His story covers his early days on the Kings Road in Chelsea, defying his doctors’ 18-month prognosis following his diagnosis, consequently allowing him to see his daughter Sarah get married, twice overcome Covid-19 and welcome his grandson into the world.

Robert wrote the book using eye gaze technology, a specialist and lifechanging piece of equipment which converts minute movements of the eye into spoken words and allows

him to communicate with others.

To celebrate the official launch of his book, the team at Signature at Camberley, where Robert has been

a resident since early 2019, hosted a celebratory event to mark his big achievement.

Girly Braga, general manager at

Signature at Camberley, said: “It was an absolute privilege to host such a wonderful event and help in making Rob’s dream of publishing his book of poems a reality. He is truly an incredible person who continues to inspire us every single day.”

The launch party was attended by members of Robert’s family, friends and representatives from the West Surrey MNDA branch who came along to congratulate Robert on his inspirational accomplishment.

Throughout the afternoon guests enjoyed a selection of speeches, a congratulatory video message from chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Motor Neurone Disease, Andrew Lewer MP OBE, and book readings from Sheila Easey and Brenda Hill, friends of Robert at Signature at Camberley.

The emotional day concluded with a book stamp signing by Robert and final reflections from the inspirational man himself.

Equipment designed with the future in mind

MEDICARE Systems offers a professional and friendly service from initial consultation and design to installation and after-sales support for care providers.

The Medicare HTM series nurse call system can be designed for ease of use and built to withstand the demands of the busiest and changing care environments.

The nursecall range for care homes provides the latest technology for the care industry, offering discreet silent night options, to assist in reducing the risk of falls, and complete visibility over your nurse call reporting data with Medicare’s management software.

The automatic reposts have the functionality to show the staff’s ID in the logs against who did the required

wellbeing and time taken through personal care reports.

Medicare’s wireless system is compatible with meeting HTM/

SHTM guidelines, exceeding the industry standard.

This allows us to create the perfect nurse call system giving your staff

and residents convenience and peace of mind.

We understand the importance of allowing residents the ability to use a nurse call system; however, pressing a button is impossible for some.

Medicare’s in-house development team has decades of experience designing and manufacturing nurse call technology.

Our development team explores any new advances in assistive technology that are likely to impact care positively.

All Medicare equipment is designed with the future in mind and is a costeffective alternative to an existing wired system.

For more information call 0800 849 5123, email info@medicaresystems.co.uk or visit www.medicaresystems.co.uk

From paper to professional IT managed services

FOR too many years we have seen a significant under investment in IT technologies and services across the social care sector. Even today there are still many medium to large care organisations continuing to use paper based systems.

With the recent CQC / Care Inspectorate focus on a data driven environment and ready access to national and regional digital transformation grants, organisations are starting to invest in care software and associated IT technologies.

However, with IT uptime being critical, and with many organisations being geographically spread across the UK, how do you successfully manage your IT?

There are plenty of managed IT services companies out there, but with most being regionally based,

and with a focus on multiple business sectors, the unique IT needs of the care sector are often overlooked.

For example, how do you get an average IT reseller to fully understand DSPT compliance?

Workplace IT changed all of this with a specific focus on providing managed IT services to the health and social care sector with four primary differentiators:

1) We operate across the UK so wherever you have a care home, office or head office you will be supported both from our UK based service desk and on-site.

2) We recognise that everything IT in the care sector is critical, and as such all service desk calls are responded to within 30 minutes and we will attend site within four business hours for all critical issues.

3) We speak your language –

understanding the terminology your sector uses, understanding urgency and being patient while care is provided is paramount to a successful IT relationship.

4) We work together by augmenting your existing in-house IT team or operating as your primary IT partner.

These four key differentiators have seen Workplace IT experience significant success, with us now supporting several UK top 20 care organisation including Healthcare Homes Group, Potens and The Disabilities Trust, as well as many medium to small organisations including Notaro Homes, Sears Healthcare and The Care Company.

Call Simon Darlington on 0333 016 5090, email simon.darlington@ workplaceit.co.uk or visit www.workplaceit.co.uk Simon Darlington

Ahead of the learning curve

WE’RE on a mission to transform dementia care in the UK. It’s not acceptable for those living with dementia to receive inequitable care opportunities.

Historically, there’s been a reluctance from care providers to welcome people with psychological distress responses, termed by many as ‘challenging behaviour’.

We want to ensure people living with dementia are given a voice and the ability to live a fulfilled life.

Our Dementia Promise ensures that support is tailored to the individual.

We’re moving away from traditional care home approaches, which are often risk-averse and can reduce cognitive function further.

We are currently rolling out three levels of dementia training to all staff across our 23 homes – an initiative we believe is the most comprehensive face-to-face training programme out there.

Our innovative, evidence-based course content is designed to completely re-frame how we think about people living with dementia.

The training model puts people at the very heart of their own care.

By truly understanding the individual’s interests, personality and abilities we can deliver more bespoke, more effective care plans, which have already resulted in significant reductions in distressresponse incidents and in the use of psychotropic medication across the group.

Here are some of the key areas that care providers can focus on to help

drive vital change across the sector:

n Awareness – remember that sensory changes are commonly experienced by those with dementia. Sensitivity to touch, sound, bright lights or colours can trigger distressresponse behaviour, so think about dialling down overpowering sensory stimulation.

For example, use a soft water flow for showering, as skin can be very sensitive.

Harder jets can feel like needles to someone living with dementia and can cause undue distress.

n Risk – to achieve truly equitable care for people living with dementia, we need to focus on ‘positive’

risk rather than using blanket risk mitigation.

We must look at adapting all environments to support this, or create smaller, dedicated dementia care settings, such as our Reconnect Communities, which cater to smaller groups with a higher staff ratio.

Suggesting that people remain seated to prevent falls can be very frustrating for someone wanting to move about, so adapt your environment to allow more freedom of movement or organise one-toone activities rather than group tasks which may leave some feeling excluded and frustrated.

n Language – using positive vocabulary, rather than ‘care speak’ is essential to change.

For example, using terms like ‘challenging or difficult’ in relation to behaviours is extremely negative, and is often a misrepresentation of the person.

We accept that people with dementia may have certain responses, however, this can be caused by confusion or the way their care is given.

Try to understand what is causing the distress – remain calm, maintain eye contact and give simple instructions to help de-escalate situations.

n Meaningful occupation – in our training we ask staff to reflect on how they occupy themselves for fun or to stimulate their brains.

This helps to reframe the traditional model of care home activities, which doesn’t reflect normal life.

Understanding a person’s likes and dislikes and engaging with them on a personal level helps them to feel valued, understood and ‘normal’.

In our Reconnect Communities we’ve added a laundry and workshop, small kitchens to make a snack and garden areas for planting which people can choose to use as they want.

We have seen vast improvements in confidence and independence by offering meaningful activities and a ‘home from home’ environment which employs positive risk elements. n De-escalation – explore the potential causes of distress – often just put down to a side effect of dementia and can lead to prescribing unnecessary psychotropic medication.

Through group role play, we reflect on how we as carers are often inadvertently the source of the distress – perhaps rushing a task, speaking too loudly, or lacking preparation.

Homing in on tasks such as bathtime routines in training scenarios helps.

For example, ensuring the bathroom is warm, the person remains covered and staying relaxed yourself, helps to alleviate stress and encourage a smoother routine.

Whilst it might seem a big undertaking to challenge and change dementia care practices across the UK, Orchard believes getting the basics right and spreading awareness of what is possible, is one step closer to a positive outcome for all.

Primary school children name suites at Thame’s newest care home

PUPILS from a primary school have won a competition to name the suites at a new care home in Thame. Keen for names with cultural or historical significance to the area, the team at Care UK’s Cuttlebrook Hall reached out to locals for suite names, knowing that those with connections to the town would be the best to help with the task.

The winning entry came from the school council at John Hampden Primary School, which is made up of 12 pupils aged between five and 11. Inspired by iconic landmarks around Thame, Phoenix, Elms, Tudor and Greyhound have been chosen for the suites currently being built at the care home.

Angela Zuraw, regional director for Care UK, added: “Choosing the suite names for a new home in preparation for opening is a key milestone, so it was important that the community were involved in the decision.

“We received a number of brilliant suggestions, making our decision a difficult one, but we felt using the names of well-known spots

around Thame a fitting choice.

Many members of the community and future residents will have some sort of connection to these areas and they are a great way to reflect the relationships we hope to form at Cuttlebrook Hall.

“We’re incredibly grateful to

everyone who took the time to submit an entry and to the pupils at John Hampden Primary School for coming up with the winning suite names.

“We’re already looking forward to welcoming the children for future activities when we open later this

year.”

Cuttlebrook Hall will be divided into four suites, each comprising a number of bedrooms and a lounge for residents.

This encourages the creation of tight-knit communities within the home and provides space for group activities.

The children based the suite names on local points of interest in their hometown.

The Phoenix Suite is named after the Phoenix Trail, an old railway line which is now a popular cycling route. Elms Suite was taken from Elms Park, which is located next to the school and a popular with the pupils. The Tudor Suite pays tribute to the historic buildings located around Thame, while the Greyhound Suite is named after an old inn, which is now the site of a well-used walkway known as ‘Greyhound Walk’.

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Cuttlebrook Hall will incorporate space for hobby and leisure activities and is set to open in September.

Developments in dementia care have been at a standstill across the sector for years. We’re working to change that, writes Hannah Miller, head of dementia at Orchard Care Homes.

Hannah Miller

CARINGHYGIENE, LAUNDRY & INFECTION CONTROL

Sustaining cost-effective care bathing

POWERED care baths from Gainsborough Specialist Bathrooms are proven to reduce costs, lower utility consumption and enhance operational performance – whilst still maintaining ultimate care and safety. So how do they do this?

Lowering gas, electric and water consumption

Gainsborough baths are proven to reduce water usage and subsequently gas and electric consumption.

On average 25 per cent less water is required to fill a Gainsborough bath when compared to similar competitor models.1

This provides a significant cost saving as water heating is estimated to be responsible for more than 12 per cent of energy consumption in a care home.2

This water saving is achieved through a unique internal bath shape which mimics a ‘keyhole’.

The keyhole design consists of a wider end for the bather’s body and a narrower tap end for legs and feet.

By implementing this contoured volume, less water is required to achieve depth whilst space for the bather is not compromised.

Additional water is saved by pre-set depth level indicators eliminating unnecessary top ups.

Not only does this lower water usage and the energy required to heat it, but waste output is also reduced so environmental impacts are lower.

Maximising carer resources

A major benefit with Gainsborough baths is shorter bathing cycles which means more residents can be bathed in less time.

This is achieved through bath features such as faster filling taps, depth level indicators and powered bather transfer seats with detachable transit trolleys.

Increasing safety for all

Powered bather transfer seats also assist from a safety point of view. Manual lifting and lowering of

bathers in and out of the bath is eliminated for carers along with the associated risks of musculoskeletal injury.

Personal care can be administered with a healthy posture and without the risk of pain or discomfort. The ergonomic safety aspects of Gainsborough baths are complemented by their in-built antimicrobial protection – BioCote. This invisible silver-ion technology is integrated during the GRP manufacturing process so cannot be wiped or worn away.

It provides 99.99 per cent protection against microbes such as influenza A H1N1, E.coli, Salmonella and MRSA.

Increasing operational savings further In addition to reducing utility and energy consumption, Gainsborough baths provide efficient operational performance through assured reliability and durability.

Built with quality and robust components, these bathing solutions rarely develop issues or cause downtime.

Servicing and maintenance contracts are diligently delivered with comprehensive warranties for assured value.

Saving time through project outsourcing

By choosing Gainsborough as a specialist bath and bathroom supplier, commissioning and facilities managers save time throughout the whole ownership process.

From initial specification, bathroom design and install through to ongoing operation, Gainsborough provides a single source for 360-degree solutions – eliminating the need to liaise with multiple suppliers.

References

1. Data is available from Gainsborough Specialist Bathrooms.

2. Exchange Utility.

Call 01527 400 022 or visit www.gainsboroughbaths.com

Forbes Professional supports clients targeting Passivhaus accreditation

WITH environmental concerns becoming ever more pressing, Passivhaus accreditation provides a great framework for the next generation of sustainable building.

It is no surprise that the innumerable benefits of ‘Passive House’ certification are being increasingly adopted by care homes and other shared accommodation providers including local authorities, universities and PBSAs.

As Forbes Professional delivers commercial laundry appliance rental and managed laundry solutions to a wide range of sectors, it is fundamental that we understand the unique requirements of each individual client.

Those that wish to adhere to Passivhaus standard require specialised attention to ensure that we work within all of the relevant guidelines for their specific environment. As part of the larger picture, we are acutely aware that the efficiency of supply chains is critical to both our own carbon footprint and that of our clients.

We closely monitor the environmental and human impact of our products’ journeys and only work with manufacturers that share our commitment to ESG practices.

With sustainability being absolutely key to the entire design principal of

Passivhaus, it is essential to source the most energy and water efficient commercial laundry appliances for each project.

The exact specification would vary depending upon the individual requirements, but we think that Miele’s heatpump commercial dryers along with their Little Giant washing machines are ideally suited for use in a Passivhaus.

Their advanced technologies and

water and energy-saving features significantly reduce consumption.

Additionally, these exquisitely engineered German appliances are impressively quiet in operation, helping to maintain the peaceful space that Passivhaus’ are intended to create.

It is always important to survey the site and consider the anticipated machine usage in order to calculate the optimum drum capacity and

machine configuration.

To this end, our experienced consultants work closely with clients and they can help guide Passivhaus clients through the planning and design stages, ensuring that we adhere to all of the relevant industry and building specifications for laundry provision.

Call 0345 070 2335, email

Home celebrates grand opening

HEATHERTON House had its grand opening in Littleover, Derby with an official ribbon cutting ceremony. The event saw guests explore the new luxury care home including a tour of the restaurant, cinema and coffee bar and sweet shops.

Heatherton House, the latest opening from Danforth Care Homes, is offering 24-hour residential, dementia and respite care for residents with the support of an experienced management team.

The home has excellent transport links, with a regular bus service to and from the city centre, which is just three miles away.

In addition, local amenities include medical centres, hospitals and parks.

The opening has created 60 jobs for the local community, as well as being home to 66 residents in a safe, spacious environment.

Home manager Amanda Jelbert said: “We are delighted to open this home officially here in Derby.

“We’ve designed the home to be a safe and comfortable space for residents to live their lives to the full, enjoying everyday activities with tailored care and support. Heatherton House will be a true asset to the Derby community.”

At the forefront of innovation when it comes to energy saving care homes, Heatherton House is on a path to zero-carbon consumption and self-generation of power, with solar panels and powered by 100 per cent electrical power.

As well as being environmentally conscious, the home has also been

purpose-built with the residents ‘lifestyles in mind.

Heatherton House includes an on-site beauty and hair salon, cinema, library and landscaped garden, as well as a coffee bar and a restaurant for guests who wish to visit to enjoy.

“It is important for us that the residents always feel supported and valued,” Amanda added.

“Through person centred care we will recognise each individual’s ambitions and respect who they are, and the life they lived before joining us.

“The space should feel like a home, which is why we will work hard to uphold an inclusive, safe environment where family can visit and enjoy their lifestyle with them, from coffee bar trips to joining in with daily activities.”

The home will have its own dedicated team, including experienced home manager and luxury on site chef.

£11m care facility on track

BUILD is progressing well at New Care’s state-of-the-art £11m care facility in Warrington, which is just a few weeks away from completion. Work continues at pace at the 70-bed care centre located on the site of the former Springbrook Pub in Grappenhall.

Commissioning director Dawn Collett said: “Work at Grappenhall is progressing well; we are now less than four weeks away from practical completion and it’s exciting to see the building taking shape.

“Our care facility has been expertly designed to offer outstanding care in a comfortable and stylish environment and we are already starting to recruit the 100-strong team and take enquiries from our first residents.”

The external brickwork and roof tiling are complete, meaning the building is now watertight, and the team of contractors and tradesmen

on site are working hard on the interior to ensure the development remains on schedule as it edges closer to completion.

The new care facility is the latest for New Care, part of the Altrinchambased McGoff Group.

Helping to increase the provision of beds in the area, New Care’s ‘new generation’ care facility is purposebuilt to deliver the highest standards of care in a safe and stylish homefrom-home environment featuring fully furnished en-suite bedrooms, communal lounges and dining rooms, spa-assisted bathrooms, a hair salon, nail bar and landscaped front and rear gardens.

When complete, it will offer personcentred residential, dementia and 24-hour nursing care delivered by an experienced team and enhanced with hotel-style services including fine dining and a meaningful programme of daily events and activities.

Village opens its gardens to enthusiasts

RICHMOND Villages Painswick is celebrating its four acres of land full of flowers, plants, trees and shrubs during Community Garden Week.

Each year the retirement village attracts a crowd of plant enthusiasts and gardening lovers to view its inspiring variety of flowers and plants.

This year the gardens will be open to the public on eight different occasions as part of the National Garden Scheme, which will be the village’s third year being part of.

The gardens at Richmond Villages Painswick are designed, maintained and developed by head gardener Anthony Mullaney.

His love for gardening started when he was 16 when his friend asked him to be a part of his small gardening business.

Anthony said: “It goes without saying that the gardens at Richmond Villages Painswick mean everything to me and my assistant gardener Luke.

“We are both very passionate about the gardens and we have both invested a lot of ourselves in the planning, planting and ongoing development of the grounds and gardens. Luke and I are not alone in this as the residents also share our passion for the gardens and the wider environment.

“They take great pleasure in the gardens and their input is always welcome. I believe that the value of the gardens was truly appreciated during the recent pandemic, and the gardens here provided a great source of relief for everyone throughout the pandemic and continue to do so.”

Richmond Villages Painswick also has a wildflower meadow that runs alongside a recently developed arboretum. In the meadow there are a variety of pyramid orchids, bee orchids, wild carrots and vetches, plus many more.

The arboretum, which was planted three years ago, contains oaks, hornbeams, maples, whitebeam,

small-leaved lime and sweet chestnut.

There is also an abundance of wildlife due to the meadow, so the village has created wildlife corridors and other areas of habitat using dead hedges and log piles.

Anthony added: “Due to our field mouse and rabbit population we also attract birds of prey such as sparrowhawks, buzzards and we even had a red kite strolling between the trees.

“As we leave the meadow to die back naturally the field mice and other creatures have a year-round home too.

“In the winter months this attracts

other wildlife into the garden, and for the last two winters we have had a pair of kestrels hovering over the meadow. Great for us to see but obviously not such good news for the mice.”

The village also has a rooftop garden which consists of a large central border surrounded by smaller borders with areas for seating and tables.

The rooftop garden consists of a varied display of flowers and plants and, from here, residents can enjoy the breath-taking views across the valley towards Stroud.

“For me, gardening is about being outside and being closer to nature, regardless of the weather,” Anthony added.

“It’s about creating and watching life unfold in front of you. In the spring, welcoming back the plants that disappeared in the previous autumn, hoping that they all survived the winter. It’s also an overall feeling of well-being.

“It’s hard to put into words but being around plants has almost a subliminal effect that lifts the spirit and brings happiness.

“I think an environment that includes natural elements and plants brings a positive outlook on life and boosts people into feeling more alive and active.”

Community officially opened at care home

A NEW community has been officially unveiled at Ashlynn Grange Care Home, marking the completion of a year-long project to create a modern environment for current and future residents.

Family-run Athena Care Homes has invested more than £1m into refurbishing Milton Lodge, creating 42 modern bedrooms with en-suite toilets, spacious communal areas and a welcoming café area for residents and their guests.

Managing director Mala Agarwal said: “I am really excited to be here opening Milton Lodge and meeting some of the new residents living in these first-class facilities.

“I am really proud of this unit, it is a fantastic, bright and modern environment which allows our team to provide tailored care to our residents, accommodating their needs and their wishes.

“I am absolutely sure the residents making Milton Lodge their home, are going to love living here”

Rooms have been finished to a high standard with media wall-style furniture and large TV screens. There is an Art Deco theme running throughout the community.

Premium rooms have accessible doors leading to the courtyard

Group announces large pay rise for hourly paid staff

IDEAL Carehomes is investing another £2.5million per annum to increase the wages of its staff.

This will mark the operator’s fourth wage increase in two years, a total investment of more than £6million which has added 20 per cent to the care teams’ salaries and cemented the company as one of the top paying providers in the UK.

The latest rise, which came into effect in April, will see all hourly paid care team members receive a minimum increase of 8.5 per cent, the biggest single investment in pay so far by Ideal Carehomes.

Currently employing more than 1,700 people in care homes across the country, hourly rates will start at £10.90 per hour in line with the Real Living Wage and far exceeding the National Minimum Wage.

Managing director Stacey Linn said: ‘With the cost of living remaining a constant worry, we feel it is imperative that we make these vital investments to support our staff.

garden, allowing residents the freedom to enjoy the outside whenever they want.

The newly opened community means Ashlynn Grange can now cater for 153 residents, offering residential, nursing and dementia care.

The ribbon was officially cut by the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Peterborough, Nick Sandford and Bella Saltmarsh, during an open afternoon attended by residents, their relatives and team members from Ashlynn Grange.

Singer Gabriella entertained residents and guests before the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress were given a tour of the new facilities, stopping to reminisce at some of the images of old Peterborough that have been displayed to rekindle memories of days gone by.

Registered home manager Desiree Jooste added: “We are proud to be able to offer this newly-refurbished community for our residents and their relatives.

“We are also excited to be able to open it up to the wider community in Peterborough when we host awareness sessions and open days.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy this welcoming space here at Ashlynn Grange.”

“We are a people business, and nothing is more important to us than making sure our people feel secure and valued in their career with us.

‘Over the past year alone, we’ve grown our teams by 27 per cent and opened six new care homes, with plans to open three more by the end of 2024.

“Our growth is providing our current and future teams with the

rewarding careers they deserve through real time opportunities to grow with us and in turn, further strengthening their earning potential.’

Ideal Carehomes’ care and domestic assistants will now start on a minimum salary of £23,805 per annum, and with progression through the Ideal Academy, their in-house training scheme, could be earning more than £30,000 per annum within a couple of years.

In addition to its most recent wage increase and comprehensive training initiatives, Ideal Carehomes offers team members wider support and benefits such as a Wellbeing Pathway, which saw the company shortlisted in the Best Employee Wellbeing Strategy category at the Engage Awards 2022.

Stacey added: “As a business we have bounced back and are trading again at pre-pandemic occupancy levels, and this has allowed us to further invest in our people who make it all happen.

“Recruitment in our sector is a challenge but we are proud to offer some of the best training and pay rates which enables us to attract and retain the best staff.

‘The latest pay rise is a necessity in the current financial climate with the increased cost of living, not only to give staff peace of mind, but also to ensure that they are rightfully rewarded for the important and dedicated work that they do.”

Residents of Camilla House in Auchertool were left surprised when a herd of alpacas wandered into their living room this week. While the animal is usually found in South America, this adventurous group made the visit to the home as part of its pet therapy programme. The gentle and calm nature of the alpacas was perfect for the residents who spent the day feeding, walking and stroking them. Lifestyle coordinator Natalia Murphy said: “The residents loved the alpacas it was heartwarming to see everyone’s smiles. We will definitely arrange for them to return.”

Rebecca completes challenge for animal charity with her dog Casper

IT WAS time to raise funds for a ‘pawsome’ charity as Rebecca Franklin, a colleague at Seccombe Court, and her dog Casper the Golden Doodle, completed the Muddy Dog challenge.

The Muddy Dog Challenge is a 2.5K or 5K obstacle course that can be completed alongside your furry friend in support of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. The course can be completed by walking, or running, with or without a dog by your side.

Rebecca and Casper raised £270 in the build-up for this challenge, and later applied for Care UK’s Match

Funding scheme, which matches colleague fundraising efforts up to £1,000.

With match funding approved, Rebecca’s final donation to Battersea Dogs and Cats home was £540.

She said: “Regardless of all our training, nothing prepares you for the 18 wet and muddy challenges the obstacle course includes. The excitement and enthusiasm of everyone definitely helped us to complete the 5k route.

“It was a brilliant event. We loved meeting lots of other lovely dogs and their owners. Casper rose to the

various challenges with gusto, and we both had fun getting very muddy.

“The best part of it all was raising money for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and having Care UK match our total.”

Rebecca is a regular fundraiser for the charity, after feeling inspired to make a difference following the heart-breaking ‘For the Love of Dogs’ television series.

The pair regularly trained in preparation for the event by taking daily walks, jogging in local sports fields, and enjoying themselves in the countryside.

Rebecca Franklin and Casper.

Care home opens its doors in style

SPECIAL guests, members of the community and furry friends were all in attendance to celebrate the launch of Shrewsbury’s newest care home.

The Mayoress, Councillor Elisabeth Roberts and Shrewsbury Rotarian, Margaret Thrower, as well as Care UK’s Oxbow Manor first resident Sheila Moffat cut the ribbon to officially open the new home. Also joining the celebrations was Milly Wheeler, fundraising and events manager at the Shrewsbury Town Foundation, as well as two Shrewsbury Town Football Club players, Kade Craig and Josh Barlow, and the club’s mascot ‘Blue’. Home manager Lindsey Quegan said: “Our grand launch party was a huge success and the perfect way to mark such an exciting milestone for Oxbow Manor.

“Our neighbours have been so warm and welcoming, and we loved meeting so many local people during

the event; we feel like we are already part of the community.

“We were delighted to welcome Councillor Elisabeth Roberts, Milly and the team from Shrewsbury Town Foundation, as well as Margaret Thrower, to help us officially open the

home.

“It was truly a day to remember –and we hope to welcome everyone again very soon.”

After being treated to a glass of bubbly, guests enjoyed live entertainment from acoustic duo

Hannah and Brian, who sang classic tunes and got everyone in the party spirit.

The Oxbow Manor team also organised a host of exciting activities for the whole family, including chocolate decorating using homemade dark chocolates prepared by the home’s head chef.

Guests were also able to enjoy flower arranging demonstrations by members of the Shrewsbury Flower Club, as well as arts and crafts sessions, which proved a hit with visitors.

There was also the opportunity to pet friendly alpacas from Admirals View Alpacas in the home’s garden. The opening ceremony also included a £500 donation to the Shrewsbury Town Foundation, a charity which encourages locals to stay active through inclusive activities, including dementiafriendly football matches.

Luxury 66-bed care home opens in Norwich

A LUXURY care home has opened in Norwich offering residential, dementia and respite care for residents in comfortable and enjoyable surroundings.

Broadlands Lodge, operated by Danforth Care Homes, has opened its doors for 66 residents, delivering care in state-of-the-art facilities.

The home has been designed with residents’ lifestyles in mind, with opportunities to embrace the sensory garden, on-site beauty and hair salon, cinema, library and coffee shops.

“Exceptional care is at the forefront of everything we do, and Broadlands Lodge will be a true asset to the

community in Norwich,” said care manager Sotak Robinson.

“We’ve designed the home to be a comfortable and safe space for residents to live their lives, enjoying everyday activities such as going to a coffee shop or getting a book out of the library.”

The home, which has 66 rooms, each with en-suite wet room facilities, along with smart TVs and mini fridges, is designed to be spacious, safe and comfortable for every resident.

The opening has created 60 jobs for local people, and the home is managed by a dedicated home

manager, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the care industry, gaining a wealth of qualifications while working as a registered manager in residential and dementia care homes.

“We’re committed to providing the highest quality care to our residents, in a space where they can live in comfort while feeling valued and safe,” added Sotak. “We cater for each residents’ individual needs, while offering a space which encourages independence and a home-like atmosphere.

“We welcome residents’ families to join them regularly in meals or

trips to the on-site coffee shops and cinema rooms, so they can continue living their lives to the fullest.”

Broadlands Lodge Care Home is part of Danforth Care Home Group, who aim to open 15 more state-ofthe-art care homes across the country in the next 15 months.

These purpose-built luxury facilities will be created with the enjoyment and comfort of the residents in mind.

They are also at the forefront of innovation when it comes to energy saving care homes, on a path to zero-carbon consumption and selfgeneration of power, with homes fitted with solar panels.

Montane Care welcomes its newest team member

MONTANE Care is delighted to welcome Darren Edwards to the team.

As Montane Care continue to grow, we are thrilled to welcome Darren aboard, providing further capacity, ambition and commitment to the group’s core values and aspirations to providing excellence within the care sector.

Alongside the core team, driven by Anthony Rae, Montane Care will continue to offer bespoke services that cater to the unique requirements of our current and future clients, alike.

Offering an exclusive balance of passion, knowledge, and track record of delivery, we provide an impartial

but fully substantiated service based upon expertise within our specialist market of choice, healthcare.

Montane Care

Offering a personal service with the specific, individual needs of our clients always at the forefront of our approach.

Rooted within 25 years, we specialise in building relationships rather than transactional advice.

Covering all aspects of healthcare including residential and nursing homes, adults with learning and physical disabilities, domiciliary care, mental health organisations and supporting living.

We understand the complex nature of the acquisition and disposal of a healthcare business.

Whether you are looking to sell or acquire a new care business or refinance your current care facility, we will provide a diligent, professional and dedicated service.

Montane Care will ensure we meet your requirements whilst all the while, maintaining exemplary client confidentiality.

provide a market-leading service built on clear, honest, and precise values. Seeking to partner with acquisitive, ambitious, and committed healthcare operators, we can ensure that only the most appropriate finance solutions are identified with the keenest terms obtained. With national coverage, visibility of whole of market and unparalleled lender relationships in place, we ensure that from the point of introduction to the successful completion of the transaction, Montane Finance will be with you all the way.

Uniquely, we specialise in the sectors we excel at. We pride ourselves on our deep and broad knowledge and understanding of the healthcare sector.

Montane Finance will be able add commercial value to your business throughout the funding process.

What our clients say…

“Working with Scott and the finance team has been an absolute pleasure, they understand the care market making the whole process much easier. Additionally, Scott was only ever a phone call away should we need anything. We’re delighted to have developed this relationship with Montane and will certainly be using them again as our group continues to grow.”

A. Wood, Wood Care Group

‘‘I have known Anthony for many years and had no hesitation in allowing Montane Care to sell our business. In a short period of time Anthony found multiple buyers during an intense period of restrictions during Covid-19 and successfully negotiated a sale. I would recommend the company due to the professionalism and reliable service, without your help this would not have been possible”.

Green light for new retirement community in Weybridge

LATER living operator Amicala and developer Socius have received planning consent from Elmbridge Borough Council for a new Integrated retirement community at Members Hill in Weybridge, Surrey.

The scheme will comprise 205 purpose-built, age-appropriate homes for sale alongside a range of amenities that will be accessible to the wider community including a hydropool, exercise studio and café enabling residents to live active and healthy lives.

Henry Lumby, chief development officer at Amicala, said: “Members Hill will provide new homes for local older people that are purposedesigned to enhance wellbeing and supported by healthcare provision on site to enable residents to live happier, healthier and more independent lives.

“We look forward to working with our partners and local stakeholders to bring these plans forward.”

According to analysis from Amicala, the provision of healthcare and wellbeing facilities will significantly reduce the burden on local NHS services, with GP and nurse visits for residents forecast to decrease by up to 38 per cent. The new retirement community will be delivered across a 10-acre site close to Weybridge town centre which was previously utilised

as the UK headquarters for JTI.

The design includes the sensitive repurposing of existing buildings on the site, saving more than 3,000 tonnes of carbon, on-site renewable energy generation and new landscaped parkland.

Barry Jessup, managing director at Socius, added: “We are very pleased that plans for Members Hill have been approved, which will see a 1980s office campus repurposed as a new retirement community that will

deliver better health outcomes for residents and amenities for the local community.

“Our approach will retain much of the existing building fabric, saving an estimated 3,000 tonnes of carbon.

“With an aging population and the NHS under severe strain, it is vital we continue to explore new ways to deliver retirement living and healthcare facilities.”

Work is expected to start on site in the autumn.

A homecare provider has created a new role in a bid to help keep clients out of hospital and remain in their own homes. The South Lakes branch of Westmorland Homecare has appointed former nursing sister Suzanne Catterall as its advanced homecare practitioner. One of her tasks is to boost training for the company’s homecare assistants, to help improve their understanding of medical conditions and help them spot any deterioration of individuals. This means they can act with more knowledge and improved skills, preventing hospital admissions and helping clients recover in their own homes with the team’s care and with input, where necessary, from medical professionals in the community. In her new role Suzanne will also mentor team leaders.

Housing technology of the future unveiled to Linlithgow tenants

A NEW digital hub in West Lothian showcasing housing technology of the future has opened its doors to tenants for a first look.

Last year, Bield Housing and Care secured £75,000 worth of funding from the Technology for our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation project as the only Scottish demonstration site.

The organisation has used some of this money to open a digital hub at its West Port development in Linlithgow, allowing tenants, staff and other stakeholders to trial and give feedback on digital care advancements of the future.

The TAPPI project aims to improve the way technology is used in housing and care for older people.

Led by the Housing Learning and Improvement Network, the TEC Services Association and funded by The Dunhill Medical Trust, TAPPI seeks to address the opportunity that technology has to enhance the lives of an ageing population and the barriers that prevent its adoption.

The West Port hub consists of four spaces including two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, one kitchen space and one living space.

There is also a consultation room and a dining space.

Each room has been fitted out with different technologies for people to test.

Tenants were welcomed to the space by Bield CEO Dr Lynne Douglas ahead of a formal launch in May.

She said: “Setting up the digital hub will bring life-changing technology to West Lothian and it’s fantastic to have this space to enable people to get first-hand experience.

“It’s very important that Bield tenants and customers get the chance to familiarise themselves with this incredible tech which is available to them through the TAPPI project.

“After all, the technology is designed and installed in order for them to reap the benefits.”

The funding will give Bield the unique opportunity to work with Linlithgow-based tenants to test a

range of devices, apps and systems across a variety of housing settings. With co-production at its heart, Bield staff and tenants will have shared responsibility to produce digital services to support independent living – a first for the Scottish housing charity.

The West Lothian hub will showcase three main technologies. The first, Anthropos, uses predictive and analytical technologies to map individuals’ daily routines and sends insights to family or staff.

If abnormal action is detected, Anthropos intervenes to prevent a crisis moment from occurring. This supports independent living for as long as possible by proactively

averting potential injury or danger.

Aquarate drinking cups, which track individuals’ fluid intake by measuring liquid volume automatically, are also available.

This monitoring means that optimal fluid levels are maintained, and can be personalised to reflect individuals’ needs and care.

The third technology is Vayyar, a non-wearable, non-invasive, fourdimensional tracking technology which supports fall detection.

It also determines room presence and tracks mobility levels and bathroom visits, all of which facilitate autonomous living.

Lynne added: “Our team have worked hard to ensure that the three new technologies are extremely relevant to Bield tenants, customers and their families.

“By focusing on preventative care techniques across the board, we’re confident that there will be fewer falls and emergencies, generally helping people to live independently and be more confident in their homes.

“Accessing this innovative hub will allow Linlithgow-based tenants and customers to live more independently for longer, which is at the centre of the latest Bield strategy and ethos.

“We are constantly seeking new ways to integrate technology into our services to suit their care requirements.”

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“Gompels helped to streamline, not only the supply, but also the products

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Kelly Jackson, procurement director, ADL Care

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To find out more email our account manager Sam Paines at sam.paines@gompels.co.uk or call 0345 450 2420.

apetito launches free guide to help care homes battle rising costs

KITCHEN operations in care homes are facing unprecedented challenges in today’s economy.

With inflation rates reaching record highs and food and energy prices skyrocketing, every pound and penny counts.

In this free guide apetito looks at how care homes can take control of rising costs in the kitchen whilst maintaining high quality, delicious mealtimes that meet bespoke resident needs.

The guide is packed with useful information and guidance and shows how by making a few simple changes, care homes can make a big difference to the bottom line.

The guide also explores how the VSA Group and Bridgeside Lodge have

been able to make efficiencies, reduce food waste and successfully protect themselves from staffing shortages.

Richard Woodward, general manager for care homes, said the Future of Care Home Catering guide has been developed to give homes helpful advice and support during a time of turbulence and increasing cost.

He added: “The Office for National Statistics recently reported the highest increase in food prices since 1977, with basic commodities costing significantly more.

“These rising costs are having a critical impact on a care home’s budget, especially when it comes to mealtimes.

“We know how hard it’s been for

care home operators, managers, and owners to navigate galloping inflation, rising costs on top of a continuing labour crisis.

“They want caring for residents to be where their time and energy goes but are instead finding themselves having to spent time worrying about costs and resource.

“Our new guide focuses on how care homes can overcome cost and time challenges.

“It features best practices and methods to streamline labour and reduce costs and includes real-life success stories and expert insights to help readers gain a greater understanding on how they can survive and thrive in this economic climate.”