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‘Hairo’ Gillian helps dementia care companion Laura lose her locks

A DEMENTIA care home resident became a ‘hairo’ to ensure a longhaired staff member could lose her lovely locks for two good causes.

Gillian Swaby went hands-on to help cut 13 inches (33 cm) of Laura Sheldrake’s hair in the salon at Colten Care’s St Catherines View in Winchester.

It was the first haircut for Laura, the home’s companionship team leader, since June 2021, and was done in aid of both The Little Princess Trust and the Boaz Project.

Under the careful guidance of professional hairdresser Olena Braharenko, Laura’s hair was neatly parted so that Gillian and home manager Vanda Baker, standing either side with scissors at the ready, could cut half each.

Laura said: “Since the last time I had my hair cut nearly three years ago, I’d been patiently letting it grow. I’ve been cutting and donating hair to the Little Princess Trust for about eight years now as I know they are an amazing charity. It’s an honour to help them.

“Hair is something most people take for granted but losing it,

especially as a child or young person, can have a massive impact.”

Turning Laura’s haircut into a fundraising opportunity for the Boaz Project secured more than £100 from friends, families, colleagues and community contacts.

Laura added: “The Boaz Project is

our home’s main charity for this year so as well as donating my hair to Little Princess, we asked people to sponsor me so we could raise some much-needed funds to support its great work as well.

“Having my home manager and one of our residents help me do this was just so special.”

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Holding the cut locks from Laura’s hair are home manager Vanda Baker and resident Gillian Swaby.

SPRINGBANK Care Home hosted a meeting for residents and their families with Mark and Caroline Chappell from Say Aphasia Skipton.

During the session they offered a comprehensive introduction to Aphasia – a communication difficulty that can affect individuals’ ability to speak, understand, read and write.

The session provided residents and their loved ones with a deeper understanding of Aphasia, exploring its causes and effective communication techniques.

Mark and Caroline emphasised the importance of Aphasia etiquette, offering valuable insights into interacting effectively with individuals experiencing the condition.

“We are dedicated to providing exceptional care to all our residents, and that includes

understanding and addressing their individual needs,” said home manager Lisa Noble.

“We are grateful to Mark and Caroline for sharing their expertise and look forward to working with Say Aphasia to enhance our communication with residents affected by Aphasia.”

The meeting marked the beginning of a collaborative effort between Springbank Care Home and Say Aphasia Skipton.

Looking ahead, both organisations are committed to further staff training and raising awareness of Aphasia, particularly during Aphasia Awareness Month in June.

The collaboration aims to enhance communication and understanding within the care home, ensuring residents with Aphasia receive the best possible support and care.

A LANCASHIRE retirement village has welcomed a flock of chickens to its home as part of its innovative, person-centred approach to care.

The exciting initiative aims to enrich the lives of residents at Buckshaw Retirement Village in Chorley by bringing a touch of nature and nostalgia into their daily routines.

The chickens have been donated by local primary school teacher Claire Harrison, who was involved in a recent hatching programme at her school, St. Paul’s C of E Primary School in Walkden.

The coop was donated by team manager Jo Bamford.

The arrival of the chickens was highly anticipated, particularly for those residents who have a background in farming.

Manager Hayley Rowson de Vares said: “Claire’s generosity has created a wonderful opportunity for our village.

“The chickens will be placed centrally in our garden, becoming a vibrant hub of activity once the chicks are mature enough and the weather is suitable for their outdoor living.

chickens.

“This project is not just about adding life to our garden, but also about reconnecting our residents with their heritage and providing them with emotional support through the joy and serenity that comes with caring for animals.

“One of our care workers is leading a lovely chicken naming project and organising a coop opening party, inviting everyone, residents, their relatives and staff, to embrace the theme by dressing as ‘funky chickens’.

“Caring and spending time with the chickens will be a beautiful reminder of the past for many who recall their own families keeping

“This event promises to be a memorable celebration, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our community’s life.”

Residents and school pupils enjoy ‘Weird and Wonderful’ museum

A ‘WEIRD and Wonderful’ pop-up museum attracted an intergenerational gathering of visitors at a Middlesbrough care home.

Cut outs of the world’s smallest man, largest hand, and largest foot, as well as measurements for the world’s tallest man were among the exhibits at The Gables.

There was also a vortex and magic eye illusions, the world’s smallest jigsaw, the world’s longest word, bubbles that don’t pop, and a 3D illusion maker.

The care home’s elderly residents were joined by year three pupils from St Joseph’s R C Primary School as they marvelled at the interactive museum.

Titled ‘Weird and Wonderful’, the exhibition was organised by Sharon Lewis, activities coordinator at Hazelgrove Court Care Home, in Saltburn, which is part of the Hill Care Group, alongside The Gables.

Samantha McCormick, activities coordinator at The Gables, said: “We can’t thank Sharon enough for this exhibition. Residents and staff absolutely loved it.

“The whole experience was totally different to anything we’ve

done before. We are planning on sharing it with family members as well.”

During the school pupils’ visit, Sharon performed an experiment with Mentos sweets and Coca Cola, which caused a fountain of fizzy drink to explode from the bottle. Visitors were also invited to attempt a hula hoop world record.

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.

Getting through the next year

CARE providers up and down the country will have started a new financial year wondering how they are going to make it through the coming 12 months.

Increased wage bills due to the rise in the National Living Wage on April 1, rising utility bills, increasing food costs, insurance bills going up…the list is endless.

For many they will be assessing the difference between the fees their local commissioners are paying to purchase care and the actual cost to the provider of delivering that care.

Things will differ widely from area to area, from commissioner to commissioner (local authorities and ICBs) but my gut feeling is that very few of them will be pleased with what they are being paid.

For far too many, private fee payers will once again be subsidising the fees paid by those funded by their local authority or ICB. For others they will be looking if they can balance the books at all.

Here in North Yorkshire we have reluctantly had to accept a fee package that is far from what we might have hoped for and includes only a very modest uplift in fees for some providers.

The repercussions of all this are very serious as another poor fee settlement comes on the back of the same over previous years and in the teeth of continuing financial hardship for many providers.

The ongoing impact of the pandemic, staffing shortages and cost of living increases is putting many providers in a very precarious position. The trickle of homecare providers and care and nursing home owners exiting the market continues.

We can argue with our commissioners as much as we like, but in truth they are seeing their budgets cut to the bone and it gets harder each year for them to keep delivering services and commissioning care.

The blame lies with central Government and its reluctance to acknowledge that there is an issue with social care funding and to do something about it.

Former television presenter Jeremy Paxman put it beautifully recently. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2021, Mr Paxman was delivering the Parky Charter, containing five key recommendations on how the Government should tackle the disease, to Number 10 Downing Street.

But he feared little would come of it, saying the Government has ignored all its responsibilities to date and that he felt like he was banging his head against a brick wall.

I feel your pain Mr Paxman, as we in social care have been suffering the same painful banging for 30 years. We too have been fobbed of with platitudes about how much the Government is committed to reform and how much it has invested in the sector, all of it meaningless.

Not for the first time I am left wondering what we need to do to get interest and provoke a reaction. I have long toyed with the idea of staging some form of protest – anything from a suffragette-style chaining to a railing gesture to a full-on hunger strike.

In truth, options for social care providers are limited. We could cease paying our subscription to the regulatory board, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) but that risks a provider being barred from operating – a case of cutting off one’s nose to spite one’s face.

The only real action we could take is to withdraw services. That would certainly be impactful as

people did not get the homecare visit they were expecting or round-the-clock care in a residential setting suddenly stopped and recipients and their families were told that, for whatever period, care was being withdrawn.

Would it work? Would the Government sit up and listen and finally sit down around the table to look at how it finds a solution to the crisis in social care?

Given past experience and that of other sectors, I am doubtful.

And can we really see a moment when a sector that is professional, compassionate and dedicated to providing care to the most vulnerable in our society suddenly walks out and abandons those people? I think not.

But the situation is getting critical and for every provider who is anxious and worried about surviving the coming year, there are others who are angry at the way social care is being treated and others who are, or are considering, getting out.

Our only glimmer of hope is that change will come from a General Election. It may be some way off but for those who are looking to a daunting and difficult year ahead, it can’t come soon enough.

Residents enjoy an exotic encounter with reptiles

RESIDENTS of Oake Meadows in Taunton were treated to a visit from Phelsuma Farm – Reptiles & Exotics, bringing a slice of the wild into the care home.

The event, which saw the home buzzing with excitement, allowed residents to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most fascinating reptiles including snakes, lizards, and tortoises.

Phelsuma Farm, renowned for its dedication to the care and conservation of reptiles and exotic animals, provided an interactive experience that proved both educational and thrilling for the residents.

Its commitment to animal welfare and education shone through, as they shared their knowledge and passion for these unique creatures, allowing residents to touch and learn about them in a safe and supervised environment.

Hannah Fenwick, activities coordinator at Oake Meadows, said: “It was truly heart-warming to see the residents so engaged and animated, showing great bravery and curiosity.

“Events like these are invaluable, as they not only provide entertainment but also stimulate our residents mentally and emotionally.

“The visit from Phelsuma Farm

has been one of the highlights of our activities calendar so far, and the joy it brought to everyone involved was palpable.”

The meeting with the reptiles offered a unique tactile experience for the residents, many of whom had never had the opportunity to interact with such animals before.

The visit sparked conversations, enriching the lives of the residents through the power of nature and animal interaction.

Resident Mary Archer with a snake.

Staff benefit from cost of living and mental health support

A CARING business is supporting its 150-strong workforce with a series of events and activities to combat the cost-of-living crisis and health and wellbeing challenges post-Covid.

Since launching in the pandemic, Enhanced Healthcare has grown to become one of the leading names in the sector.

The Colwyn Bay-based organisation is blazing a trail for others in the industry and has done so by prioritising its own team of nurses and health and social care staff.

Delivering temporary staffing solutions to a range of health and social care services across North Wales and beyond, the awardwinning company was launched by Chanel Williams in 2021, as she herself was seven months pregnant in hospital recovering

“Ultimately, a happy and supported workforce is far more proactive and productive than one which feels undervalued and overburdened.”

from a life-threatening condition.

That same year, Chanel was joined by friend and former colleague Natalie O’Brien, who took up the role of director of operations, and together they have overseen a period of expansion while doing all they can to help agency employees cope with the social, economic, and mental health challenges facing many people today.

“The last few years have been difficult in so many ways, with the Covid pandemic and cost-ofliving crisis in particular having a huge impact nationwide,” said Chanel.

“Working within health and social care our team and the services we support were at the forefront of one of the most critical and demanding times we’ve ever faced, so it’s crucial as a responsible business we do all we can to create a supportive, open environment.

“We’ve organised events with financial advisers, health and wellbeing experts and more, tackling issues such as debt, mortgages, rising childcare costs, energy bills and the compounded remnants of the pandemic.

That’s a rap on first year of home and school partnership

A STAFFORD care home has been celebrating the first year of its partnership with the local grammar school with a memorable visit.

Stafford Grammar School went along to see the staff and residents at Dora Rose with a specially prepared musical number to make sure the anniversary visit went with a bang. During the visit the students from the Preparatory School delighted residents with a heart-warming performance, including a song that transcended generations.

The highlight of the performance was an unexpected rap verse that had residents clapping along with joy and appreciation, while staff even got involved with the actions. Home manager Emma Thorley said: “We are immensely grateful to Stafford Grammar School for their unwavering support and

“I have been humbled by the response and proud our team feel they able to talk to us; they are the beating heart of Enhanced Healthcare and that will never change.”

Staff also enjoyed a free day of activities during the Easter break – alleviating some of the financial pressures the school holidays can bring – and held ‘drop-in’ days on a wide range of other topics including nutrition, budgeting, and money saving tips, with yoga,

managing stress and physical wellbeing sessions planned for the near future.

“We will hold regular, accessible events for the team,” added Natalie.

“Not only does this give us peace of mind, that we are doing all we can to help them through these challenging economic times, but it’s also good for morale.

“This is an investment in forward-thinking change which will in turn create positive working environments, improve staff retention, and reduce stressrelated conditions.

“We have already seen the results, that by adopting this approach we can in turn make a greater difference and improve the quality of service for our clients and other stakeholders.

“Ultimately, a happy and supported workforce is far more proactive and productive than one which feels undervalued and overburdened.

“That’s huge for us, and for them in meeting our high standards – we encourage other organisations to consider taking the same steps.”

Awards success for Lincolnshire carers

DEDICATED staff working in the care sector in Lincolnshire were celebrated at the annual Lincolnshire Care Awards.

The awards, which were organised by Lincolnshire Care Association, took place at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Lincoln and were hosted by Melvyn Prior, a former presenter on BBC Radio Lincolnshire.

commitment to our residents.

“The past year has been filled with moments of pure joy and companionship, and this visit was no exception.

“The power of intergenerational interactions cannot be understated. It enriches the lives of our residents, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. We are proud to be a member of our local community and are always looking for ways for our residents to become more involved.

“It’s also important to us for those living around our care home to see what life in our home is like and maybe change a few perceptions about being in care.”

In the past year the partnership between Dora Rose, which is part of Macc Care Group, and Stafford Grammar School has flourished, bringing together generations to share music, storytelling, conversation and laughter.

Winners were announced across 13 categories including Community Care, Residential Care and Workforce Development. Nominations were open to the public and were then shortlisted before a judging panel decided the winners and highly commended for each category.

Melanie Weatherley MBE, chair of LinCA, said: “It’s so important to recognise the achievements of the staff and organisations working in the care sector across Lincolnshire.

“These awards are a great chance for these people to be celebrated and they wouldn’t be possible without our amazing sponsors and event organisers.” Winners: Front Line Leader – Louise Green, OSJCT Whitefriars (Stamford); Community Care – Vicky Law, Walnut Care (Boston); Residential Care –Clayton Hosier, Brun Lea Care Home (Spalding); Behind the Scenes –Annemarie Markham, Oakdene Care Home (Sleaford); Social Care Nurse and Nurse Associate – Emma Wheeler,

Glen Garrod received the Chair’s Award from Melanie Weatherley MBE, chair of the Lincolnshire Care Association.

Howson Care Centre (Gainsborough); Caring Together – Grant Wadge and Maria Wadge, County Care (Skegness); Outstanding Partner – K2 Community Paramedic Team, K2 Healthcare (Sleaford); Home Care Registered Manager – Lindsay Nearn, LJM Homecare (Lincoln); Activities Coordinator – Lisa Gosney, Pickworths Residential Living (Boston); Care Home Registered Manager – Alice O’Hare, Pickworths Residential Living (Boston) and Denise Green, Grosvenor House Care Home (Lincoln); Care Home Cook/Chef – Karen Frampton, Eagle House Residential Care Home (Lincoln); Workforce Development – Gill Morgan, Pearl Healthcare (Lincolnshire); Rising Star – Donna Mason, County Care (Skegness). Glen Garrod from Lincolnshire County Council was awarded the LinCA Chair Award for his service to the sector as this marks his final year before retirement.

Chanel Williams

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Provider creates collection of nostalgic recipes

QUICHE, casseroles and carrot cake are our favourite nostalgic meals.

A poll of 2,000 adults found a third often eat foods specifically to remind them of years gone by, with 52 per cent associating particular foodstuffs with past times in their lives.

With chicken Kiev, prawn cocktail and Battenberg cake also among the meals linked to yesteryears.

It also emerged only 35 per cent still use old family recipes that have been handed down through the generations.

In response to these findings, care home provider Care UK, has created a collection of nostalgic recipes dating back from the 1950s through to today with the help of its residents in care homes across the country.

Hotel services manager Andrew Mussett said: “Nostalgia is a powerful force that connects us to our past, and what better way to relive those cherished

“A home-cooked meal using a recipe enjoyed in the past creates an opportunity to remember the past and reflect on the people and places which inspired the dish.”

moments than through the comforting embrace of familiar foods served up in family favourite recipes passed down through the generations?

“Whether it’s the aroma of a family recipe or the first bite of a childhood treat, nostalgic foods have the power to evoke happy memories and emotions and are a wonderful way to encourage reminiscence in older people, especially for those living with dementia.

“A home-cooked meal using a recipe enjoyed in the past creates an opportunity to remember the past and reflect on the people and places which inspired the dish.”

Of those who cook nostalgiafuelled meals, 28 per cent will do so when family come over, 26 per cent when a birthday rolls around, and 22 per cent when they just need cheering up.

But some traditional foods may be on the verge of extinction, as beef topped a list of ingredients people buy less of now than they did five years ago.

Pork is also dropping in popularity, along with seafoods including cod, haddock and prawns.

On the other hand, Brits are buying more chicken, eggs and fruit to maximise their protein and vitamin intakes.

The poll found that in the last 12 months, 70 per cent of

respondents have tucked into a classic Sunday roast, and 58 per cent have enjoyed a Shepherd’s or Cottage Pie – proving not all recipes first enjoyed in the 70s are going out of flavour.

Other dishes to have passed the nation’s lips in the last year include ham, egg and chips (28 per cent) and toad in the hole (29 per cent).

Nearly half (49 per cent) have enjoyed a classic 1970s staple – a quiche – while 32 per cent have enjoyed the garlicky goodness of a chicken Kiev.

And when it comes to popular foods from the 1990s, 43 per cent have laid into some macaroni and cheese, while 36 per cent have snacked on a Pot Noodle.

As a result, 57 per cent express little or no concern that classic or traditional meals are at risk of dying out completely.

Although 34 per cent do fear this may come to pass, according to the OnePoll.com figures.

Of those who are parents, 46 per cent cook meals for their children they enjoyed in their own youth, at least sometimes.

But 62 per cent believe their eating habits have changed as they have aged, with 65 per cent of these trying to eat more healthily and 45 per cent looking to be more adventurous.

Andrew added: “There’s a certain joy in rediscovering the flavours of our childhood or the meals shared with loved ones.

“Nostalgic foods offer a unique blend of taste and emotion, creating a culinary journey that resonates with the essence of who we are, where we’ve come from, and the people with whom we’ve enjoyed meals with throughout our lives.

“And while tastes may change or evolve with time, it looks like lots of British classics are here to stay – which is why we’ve created our ‘Recipes to Remember’ book.

“From food enjoyed during World War Two to quirky desserts from the 70s, it includes residents’ favourite foods, alongside recipes tailored to older people by some of our award-winning chefs.”

Instantly detect a fall with Lilli

WITH more than 230,000 falls reported a year in care homes, the impact of falls and their consequences cannot be underestimated.

Falls can take away independent living, and the resulting injuries can lead to ambulance call-outs, hospital admissions and readmissions.

They can cause the patient distress, pain, fear, anxiety, and depression, as well as a loss of confidence.

Beyond the physical, emotional and psychological impact on the patient is the financial impact that falls have.

The time and cost associated with falls can be high, and the cost of long-term care for residents who are unable to return to their previous level of independence can be even higher.

A 50 bed care home will

typically spend in excess of 7,000 care hours providing nighttime checks.

This all puts an increased strain on an already overworked workforce and puts pressure on budgets, causing a loop of frailty for both the resident and the organisation that takes care of them.

When someone falls, every hour spent on the floor correlates to an extra day in hospital so early intervention is critical.

However, falls detection technology is available now that

can help to mitigate the impact of falls – helping residents, care homes and the wider health and care system.

Lilli is a pioneering lifestyle monitoring technology company, which supports organisations in the health social care sector to deliver proactive care.

Lilli’s advanced falls detection solution enables care professionals to instantly detect a fall, for immediate intervention and better health outcomes. With real-time alerts telling carers who has fallen and where,

it reduces the need for nighttime checks, freeing up carer hours.

The discreet and unobtrusive sensors are placed in the bedroom and bathroom to track in-room activity, 24/7.

Using radar rather than cameras or wearables, you can importantly maintain the privacy and dignity of your residents while helping them to have an uninterrupted night’s sleep to support their overall physical and mental wellbeing.

The platform collects insights that can provide constant visibility into each residents’ activity and wellbeing so you can monitor trends and patterns over time.

Having access to more comprehensive falls data can also pre-emptively inform care strategies, mitigating risks and promoting resident safety.

Lilli is now working with ICBs and local authorities across the country to enhance care delivery and support organisations to improve outcomes, save costs and generate significant efficiencies.

Contact us today to find out more about falls detection. Visit www.intelligentlilli.com/ or email Lewis Pirie,

Andrew Mussett

Advertiser’s announcement

Sensory space enhances wellbeing

ST MODANS has opened a therapeutic sensory room

The new space in the Fraserburgh care home is an exciting addition to the services offered by Meallmore. The specialist room is dedicated to stimulating and enhancing the wellbeing of residents.

The staff have already recognised the positive impact the sensory room is having on residents facing the challenges of dementia, acquired brain injury and other forms of emotional distress. In addition, the sensory room is also proving beneficial in promoting well-being of the residents in general.

The official opening of the sensory room took place with an afternoon ceremony for residents, relatives, friends, local people and businesses. More than 40 people attended. Retired Fraserburgh councillor Brian Topping officially opened the room.

Activity coordinator Danielle Masson, who led the project, added: “Now that the room is open, we’re really looking forward to our residents experiencing the various sensory equipment and their benefits first-hand.

“The new space will be a true a sanctuary for those moments when our residents may feel overstimulated. Whatever challenges they’re navigating, or if they just need some calm time,

our sensory room will be a safe place available to them at any time of the day or night.”

The room provides a soothing environment where residents can relax, unwind and regain control of their emotions. The sensory stimulation creates interaction with staff members, promoting communication on both verbal and non-verbal levels.

New equipment installed in the room includes an infinity tunnel which offers users total control over a never-ending tunnel of ever-changing coloured LED lights, and an interactive bubble tube surrounded by mirrors, inspiring interaction through the constantly changing colours and vibrating moving bubbles.

The sensory room has been

Social care and the healthcare postcode lottery

A NEW report by the Public Accounts Committee is highlighting the continuing postcode lottery in people’s access to care.

It emphasises the problems extend beyond hospitals, to NHS community services and shortfalls in social care.

The social care aspect is one already frustrating disability equipment suppliers and manufacturers, including the UK’s leading stairclimber provider, AAT GB.

Across England there are “black holes” where certain types of equipment or processes that can play a key role in social care provision, expediating hospital discharge and enabling someone to remain in their home without reliance on paid care, are not even considered.

Yet that same equipment or process is proven to reduce pressure on the social care workforce and deliver better quality of life for patients/clients elsewhere.

AAT believes the postcode lottery in social care is due to a number of factors. These include lack of knowledge about the aids/processes available, a department or authority aversion to trying something new/risk aversion, individual bias, focus on individual departmental budgets without looking at the bigger picture of cost-saving benefits.

“Time and again over the years we hear of a social care team trying something different, that has been proven to deliver positive outcomes, that others laud as exemplar,” said Peter Wingrave, AAT director.

“But there is no drive – from the top down – to adopt the equipment or process on a regional or national scale.

“We will be networking with other providers to utilise and combine

experiences, reasoning and guidance, and develop a cohesive way forward.

“The Covid pandemic proved that when in crisis, we will dare to use different approaches. Our health and social care is in crisis. There are proven ways to help solve the problem, that don’t require more money, just a change of attitude. It’s time to dare to try them.”

AAT is the UK’s number one provider of stairclimbers/stairclimbing wheelchairs, that address safe stairway access without any installation nor disruption to the home environment.

The equipment can be re-allocated to others in need within days, thus having a direct impact on hospital discharge where mobility/stairs in a house or flat is an issue.

Enquiries: Full details are available at www.aatgb.com

made possible thanks to fundraising efforts from residents, staff and the local community over the last year.

Since last July activities have included a sponsored assault course and sponsored walk for staff and a resident, the home’s summer fete, raffles, a quiz night, a kids Halloween party, and many donations from the community and staff.

£5,560 was raised, and this money paid for all the equipment in the room.

The staff at St Modans will take an individualised, tailored approach to make sure the sensory room best benefits every resident who requires it. Taking the time to identify how illnesses are affecting a residents’ physical

abilities means that activity in the sensory room can be tailored to offer a meaningful experience. As such, the room will be available to one resident at a time.

All staff at the home will receive training on how to use the equipment and will work to create ‘one page profiles’ relevant to the needs of each resident. Interested families of residents can also receive training and access their relatives’ profile to make the sensory room an activity which can be enjoyed with loved ones.

Manager Julie-Anne Thomson said: “Enhancing the quality of life of our residents and colleagues is at the heart of everything we do. The new sensory room is a fantastic addition to the activities and experiences we provide here.

“The response to our fundraising efforts has been overwhelming, and we managed to raise more than £5,000 for this project. A huge thanks goes to all staff, families and local businesses who helped us with our target, as this would not be possible without them.

“I was truly overwhelmed with the response we had at our open day. The fundraising journey to open the sensory room will be documented and accessible for anyone to view at any time. No words can describe how proud I am of my team at St Modans for achieving this.”

Ex-Cadbury worker shares insight into the chocolatier

A WEST Midlands care home resident that was a former employee at the Cadbury chocolate brand has shared what it was like working with the chocolatier – which is celebrating its 200th birthday.

Anne Russel, a resident at Willow Rose in Willenhall, revealed her enjoyment of wrapping the iconic chocolate bars during her time in the Bournville factory.

She said: “The best part was that we were able to eat as much chocolate as we wanted –- although, after a while, you definitely ate less. I’d agree that there can be too much of a good thing in this case.”

Shelly-Ann Trotman, home manager at Willow Rose, added: “We understand the importance of fostering a sense of community and preserving cherished memories for our residents.

“The Cadbury 200th birthday celebrations provided a perfect opportunity for us to engage in an activity that not only delighted the senses but also brought smiles and warmth to our residents’ hearts.

“Cadbury is such an iconic local brand and to have a direct link through Anne

brought a special touch to the occasion. Shared memories and experiences are such a great way of bringing our community together and strengthening relationships between the residents as well as the staff.”

Willow Rose is part of the Macc Care Group, which also runs Dora Rose in Milford, near Stafford, which saw its residents get in on the Cadbury birthday celebrations – crafting cornflake and rice crispy cakes that stirred up decades of cherished memories from their combined 618 years.

Activity coordinator Danielle Masson and manager Julie-Anne Thomson.

Anne Russel

Operator invests more than £39million in colleague pay

HC-One is investing more than £39million in colleague pay this year.

This will mean more than 80 per cent of colleagues will move immediately to be at or above the new Real Living Wage rates, with all colleagues able to earn at or above the Real Living Wage after two years of service.

The investment also means care colleagues will receive a pay award averaging nine per cent, which is once again ahead of the public and private sector’s averages, and, for the vast majority of colleagues, outstrips inflation.

James Tugendhat, chief executive officer at HC-One, said: “I am delighted that we are announcing another substantial investment in colleague pay and are pleased to be making a positive step forward on sick pay.

“Our colleagues at HC-One make up the biggest health and care workforce outside the NHS and are vital to how we deliver care. We would not be able to do what we do without them, and

it’s incredibly important to us that we do everything that we can to reward them for the crucial work they do.

“We’ve been encouraged to see a significant improvement in our colleague retention rates, which have been five per cent ahead of the sector average and is a testament to the impact that our investment in pay, reward and learning and development is having.

“Our residents will also be seeing the benefit of this through consistency of teams, and developing meaningful

Home fulfils resident Tony’s burning wish

A BANBURY care home resident was delighted when his wish to relive his past career was made a reality.

When the team at Care UK’s Highmarket House heard that 92-year-old resident Francis Lomas, known by his friends and family as Tony, who spent almost two decades working as a firefighter, was keen to relive his workdays, they were determined to make it happen.

Tony spent 18 years working as a firefighter, where he was based at Tysoe Station, in Warwickshire. During this time, and thanks to his passion and commitment, Tony climbed the ranks to earn the title of leading firefighter.

To help fulfil his wish the team at Highmarket House arranged a special visit from Banbury Fire Station, who brought along one of their fire engine so Tony and his friends at the home could enjoy an afternoon exploring the vehicle.

relationships with the colleagues who support them.

“We look forward to seeing the positive impact of the announcement as we continue to support those in our care to lead their best live and strive to be the first choice for families, colleagues, and commissioners in the communities we serve.

“We are also continuing to engage with our local authority and NHS partners, who fund the majority of the residents we support, to secure fee uplifts that will enable us to go even further on colleague pay.”

The announcement is the latest in a raft of significant investments that HC-One has made in its workforce. Over the last three years the operator has invested substantially in colleague pay in recognition of the role they play in supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society and making a difference to residents’ lives.

This new investment builds on the £32.5million that HC-One invested in colleague pay in 2023,

as well as its wider investment in reward, benefits, colleague wellbeing and development, including: enhancing maternity, paternity and adoption leave; providing a new benefits platform including leading discounts; wide ranging learning and development programmes; a new Flex Force initiative that normalises and brings flexible working to social care; providing access to Wagestream along with AXA Health ‘Be Supported’ 24/7 counselling helpline and Aviva Digital GP service for all.

HC-One is also introducing company sick pay entitlement for all colleagues.

Having listened to feedback from colleagues, the operator is going further than the standard statutory sick pay scheme that does not kick in until after three days of absence.

Instead, HC-One colleagues will be able to receive sick pay from day one of any absence, for up to three occasions per year. Colleagues will be paid at the government-set SSP rate.

Community turns out for open day at £13m home

VISITORS turned out in large numbers for a first look inside a new £13million care home in Biddenham, Bedford.

Bentley Grange, a 60-bed care home, opened its doors for the special event when the home’s new team welcomed guests from across the area keen to explore the new, luxurious setting.

Home manager Francesca Cowley said: “Tony is always sharing stories of his time as a firefighter. Our Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their passions and ambitions and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these a reality.

“Tony loved being back in the truck and it was a wonderful way to encourage residents to share fond memories and stories of past careers with one another.

“I’d like to extend a big thank you to the team at Banbury Fire Station, as well as to the team here at Highmarket House – we all had a wonderful afternoon.”

The Wishing Tree Initiative encourages residents to put wishes forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past career or try something completely new – from flying a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small.

Visitors were able to enjoy activities, entertainment, home tours and treats inspired by dishes from the home’s menus all rustled up by the new head chef.

Those who attended gained a sneak peek into the future experience of individuals set to move into the home when it officially opens.

Michael Zinaka, commissioning manager at Bentley Grange, said: “It was a total pleasure to be able to host this event and show our beautiful new home to the community we will serve.

“We received so many compliments and positive feedback, as well as a great deal of interest from families with loved ones who would benefit from the excellent care we can provide.

“This open event marked the first step in a very exciting new beginning, as we share this exceptional home with the Biddenham community.”

Bentley Grange, the latest addition to the Maria Mallaband Care Group portfolio of more than

80 care homes across the UK, will offer personalised residential, dementia and nursing care.

Features include large en-suite rooms, landscaped grounds with insect-friendly planting, a hair and beauty salon, a bistro and roof top bar, a cinema room, a wellness suite, a leisure suite, private dining and a grandchildren’s room, where families with younger children can meet and enjoy time together.

Community relations manager

Ben Maynard added: “We are so excited about what we can do for those who will soon call Bentley Grange home.

“With our outward-facing approach, we are looking forward to seeing what we can do for this community and the value we will add to people’s lives.”

Ben Maynard, community relations manager and Michael Zinaka, commissioning manager at Bentley Grange.

James Tugendhat

£2million home opens to community

HAILSHAM House care

home threw open its doors to local people as it marked the completion of a £2million refurbishment project by operators, Aurem Care.

Throughout the event, which was attended by the Mayor Councillor Paul Holbrook and Deputy Mayor Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts, personalised tours of the revamped facility gave visitors a firsthand glimpse into the lifestyle at Hailsham House.

The Mayor took the opportunity to join in with the home’s activity schedule with a resistance bandbased exercise class, before cutting a ceremonial cake to mark the opening.

Guests had the opportunity to admire the renovation works, indulge in delectable homecooked snacks prepared by the

catering team, and participate in various engaging activities, including exercise classes led by the home’s PT, cupcake decorating sessions and arts and crafts sessions.

Home manager Rui Santos said: “Hailsham House is more than just a care facility, it’s a true home for our residents. We

are committed to supporting individuals in a way that provides for their physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. It’s been amazing to speak to so many people from the area and to show them the outstanding results of our refurbishment works.

“Hailsham House is a first-class facility and I am delighted that we

have had such good feedback from the community. I am looking forward to working with local good causes and groups to enrich the lives of our residents, as well as contributing positively to the local area.”

The refurbishment project, which began with an initial £1million investment, saw the creation of 32 en-suite rooms, each equipped with state-of-the-art amenities including full wet rooms.

Additionally, a comprehensive overhaul of the kitchen facilities offers residents access to a diverse range of dining options, enhancing their overall wellbeing.

In addition to the physical improvements, the investment has also generated more than 20 jobs for local people, contributing to the economic vitality of the community.

Michaela O’Brien and Octavia Ndlovu have been appointed as home manager and deputy home manager at Ashlands Manor, New Care’s care facility in Sale which was recently reward a ‘good’ rating following a CQC inspection. Michaela is responsible for the smooth and safe operation of Ashlands Manor, leading the team and following New Care’s vision. Having worked in the sector for more than 25 years, and with a diploma in health and social care, Michaela hopes to achieve a whole home approach, offering meaningful lifestyles for residents and ensuring days are fun and engaging. Octavia, who has worked in health care for 23 years in a variety of roles, has a diploma in general nursing and a post graduate diploma in general management.

ThinCats has appointed Darrell Franciosy as its new relationship director for healthcare. He has more than two decades’ experience in senior financial roles and joins from NatWest Bank, where he was most recently a healthcare relationship director. Darrell has specialised in healthcare for the last 16 years, working with a range of business in the sector including social care, elderly care, specialist care, and day care nurseries at a regional and national level. He has a long track record of providing commercial guidance, focusing on development, growth, acquisitions and seeking out new relationships within the sector networks.

McCarthy Stone has appointed Jo Bennett as its new chief financial officer. She was most recently chief business officer at Pizza Express where she was responsible for finance, legal, IT, property, the value creation plan, business transformation and the supply chain. Prior to this, Jo was group CFO of Hilding Anders Group, a global bed and mattress manufacturer and retailer. Jo possesses a strong financial background having spent time as a director at KKR Capstone and at TPG Capital, where her remit was to drive value creation throughout the life of the investments. Jo originally trained as an accountant at EY and is a member of the ICAEW. Jo’s focus will be on delivering McCarthy Stone’s growth, helping the Group take full advantage of improving market conditions to build and sell c.2,000 new apartments and bungalows a year, and operate its 530 open retirement communities, including its 120 housing with care schemes.

Peter Chambers has joined the Skills for Care board bringing more than 30 years of experience in governance, risk and control in the UK and aboard. Peter started his career with PwC where he spent 10 years as the appointed auditor for several NHS and local government bodies. Alongside his non-executive roles, Peter maintains his up-todate knowledge of best practices in governance, risk and control, working on various projects in a freelance capacity. Skills for Care chair John Coughlan said: “We had a lot of quality applications to join our board so I’m delighted to welcome Peter Chambers as a trustee. Peter not only brings decades of audit and risk experience to support our governance, but also has a clear understanding of the challenges facing adult social care.”

Trust expands with group’s acquisition

THE Orders of St John Care Trust is expanding with the acquisition of Elmfield Care.

Elmfield Care is the latest addition to join OSJCT’s portfolio and offers residential, dementia and respite care for up to 200 residents across three purpose-built luxury care homes: Old Sarum Manor in Salisbury, Wiltshire; Flowers Manor in Chippenham, Wiltshire; and Nodens Manor in Lydney, Gloucestershire.

Dan Hayes OBE, CEO of OSJCT said: “We are delighted to be extending our offering to include this group of sustainably built, superbly operated, private pay homes.

“Elmfield Care exemplifies the highest standards of care and values, which we share at OSJCT.

“Existing residents can be safe in the knowledge that they will continue to be supported by an organisation with an excellent track record.

“This acquisition opens doors to a wealth of opportunities for the wider organisation.

“It grants us access to innovative management practices and advances in building design

and will provide invaluable insights into other examples of best practice.

“As a not-for-profit care provider it strengthens our financial foundation, empowering our charity to better serve those for whom we care.

“We are looking forward to sharing learnings with Elmfield Care and will endeavour to apply these to the wider Trust for the benefit of all those living and working with us.”

Work begins on new home

WORK is underway on the development of a new £20m care home in the Pitfodels area of Aberdeen, ready to open in autumn/winter 2025.

The 65-bed facility is being developed by Meallmore and will be known as Pitfodels Wood.

The construction work is being undertaken by Clark Contracts.

A sod-cutting ceremony to mark the start of works was attended by Meallmore’s property director Michael Gillespie, as well as representatives from Clark Contracts.

Michael said: “Set in beautiful grounds and using impressive architectural attributes, Pitfodels Wood is going to be a stunning place to live.

“It will provide the highest quality facilities for our residents, offering personalised care to meet personal needs, empowering individuals to maintain their desired levels of independence.

“The new specialised home will also offer a range of job prospects, boosting employment

in the neighbouring communities.

“We can’t wait to welcome residents to Pitfodels Wood upon completion.

Once open, Pitfodels Wood will offer personalised care for elderly people with general care needs including those with dementia and its related conditions.

It will provide in the region of 80 full time equivalent jobs including nurses, care assistants, hotel services staff, facilities operatives, administrators and managers.

The four-storey building will be arranged in an ‘L’ shaped block carefully orientated to maximise views of the surrounding mature woodland area and beyond.

Communal balconies within shared areas and private balconies from some bedrooms will boast views to the south over the Deeside Valley.

The home will be set within landscaped gardens, offering seamless access to the outdoors for residents. Inside, the home will offer a cinema, café, private dining room and beauty salon.

Dan Hayes OBE

Evan Hayes from Axiom – project manager for Meallmore, Michael Gillespie –property manager for Meallmore, Andrew Grant – contract manager for Clark Contracts and Daniel Taylor – commercial manager for Clark Contracts.

Kori Construction secures second Porthaven Care Homes scheme

KORI Construction has been appointed to a £12.2m scheme that will see the site of a former Milton Keynes fire station turned into a care home.

The business, based in Corby, Northamptonshire, was awarded the contract by Porthaven Care Homes after being appointed to a similar project for the client in Harpenden, Hertfordshire.

Demolition of the former fire station building, which has stood empty since 2020 when the fire service was relocated to a new Blue Light Hub at West Ashland, has already been completed.

It will be replaced by a fourstorey, 75-bed care home described as ‘tranquil and settled’ by the developer, which will provide comprehensive care services for older people as well as those living with dementia.

Jordan Connachie, managing director of Kori Construction, said the development would fulfil a growing need for care provision in the area, and was the perfect way to repurpose the former ‘landmark’ fire station.

“We’re delighted to be working with Porthaven Care Homes again, to bring forward this muchneeded development,” he added.

“The scheme has been designed as a high-quality landmark

building which will provide a safe and relaxed environment for residents, both inside and out.

“Residents will also benefit from a range of first class amenities as well as main views that look out across green space.

“Couple this with the high standard of care Porthaven is renowned for providing, and it will be a fantastic asset to the local community.”

Amenities will include a gym, hair salon, café, cinema, activity room, community lounge, community and private dining areas, and private, landscaped gardens.

Jordan added: “The construction techniques we will be employing will lead to a 19 per cent reduction of carbon emissions compared to traditional construction methods, and the care home will meet 20 per cent of its energy requirements from renewable sources.

“This, alongside ecological enhancements and improvements to biodiversity, demonstrates how Porthaven is delivering for people and the environment.”

Work to prepare the site got underway last November, and the development will take around 18 months to complete.

said: “We are delighted to be delivering another stunning purpose-built care home and sincerely look forward to embedding ourselves into the community.

“Professional and empathetic care is what Porthaven does best, and our team of compassionate staff are dedicated to the wellbeing, comfort and dignity of every single person in our care.

“We look forward to providing high-quality residential, nursing and dementia care from summer 2025.”

Steve Rickard, development director at Porthaven Care Homes,

Community-focussed approach pioneered at new care home

A NEW care home in St Neots celebrated its grand opening over Champagne and canapes with mayor Rob Simonis, deputy mayor Richard Slade and other guests from the local community.

Henbrook House, which recently opened its doors to its first batch of residents, wants to improve life by bringing the next level of luxury and excellence to the town.

Catherine Frost, general manager of Henbrook House, said: “The whole team were delighted to finally open our doors in St Neots, which already feels like home.

“When we began designing Henbrook House our aim was to create a place which offers superb facilities and hospitality with the added bonus of care. Through various luxury services and communitybuilding activities we hope to create an extraordinary home for our residents and a ‘home away from home’ for their families and friends to enjoy.”

Henbrook staff believe regular engagement with the community is essential for creating a happier environment for residents.

The home is working with the St

Neots Initiative, a local businessled group aimed at developing the town as a better place to live, work, and play.

Catherine added: “Regular engagement with local groups is a crucial part of our offering.

“Not only will this help residents feel connected to life in St Neots, but it will also help build a stronger sense of community in the wider town as well.

“Through our work with the St Neots Initiative and others we will engage in various campaigns aimed at developing the town into a better place to live for everyone.”

Already in the diary is the Henbrook Hoedown Barn Dance, a visit by Cirque du Soleil and various festivals and fundraising events in town.

Residents will be able to partake in these events under a unique all-inclusive payment model.

Also covered under this model are services including an on-site chiropodist, hair salon, Sky TV packages, outings on the home’s minibus, treatments at The Lotus Spa and meals and drinks at the on-site Eaton Bar and Bistro – all with no additional charges.

Whitby home to expand again

PEREGRINE House in Whitby is again undergoing expansion as demand grows for residential care in the region.

The improvement work will create five more spacious bedrooms, bringing the total at the home to 40.

Resident Brenda Asher, who is 90 years old and has been living at Peregrine House for two years, has been watching the excavation work in the grounds unfold.

She was keen to clamber into the digger for a taste of the action.

The home is enjoying a renaissance and refresh under the inspirational eye of home-grown employee Joe Bowman.

Joe, who was appointed home manager last year, said: “The ethos now is very much focussed on fun, and as Brenda wanted to have a go we were happy to ask

the site foreman of Woodstone 1 building contractors to help us to facilitate that.”

The new bedrooms are scheduled to be completed in August.

The extension is the third phase of improvement investment since the large Victorian home was first purchased in 1995 by owners Dr Kevin and Theresa O’Sullivan.

Group celebrates 30th anniversary and sets new franchises target

SureCare has set its sights on adding 30 new franchises in its 30th anniversary year.

The current owners, managing director Gary Farrer and his wife Stephanie, acquired the business 10 years ago this year, while son Josh joined in 2016 as franchise recruitment manager.

During that time Gary and his team have expanded from a domiciliary care provider to a provider offering a complete range of home care services, now also including childcare, companionship care, pet care, cleaning, shopping calls and handyman work.

SureCare was originally founded in 1994 by another husband-andwife team, John and Gill Ford, to provide care for the elderly in the Chester area.

Today’s business still has its head office in the city in Park West Business Park, but now has a network of franchises across the UK.

Gary said: “The original founders were a family business just like ourselves and we have the same purpose to provide our clients with the best possible care.

“For SureCare today that means offering a complete range of services for life’s journey, whether that is working parents who need childcare, an elderly person needing companionship or someone requiring our full domiciliary care service.

“We’re also now providing clients with their cleaning and handyman requirements and even looking after their pets. The breadth of services we offer makes us truly unique.

“Some of our franchisees have been in business for more than 25 years, which is amazing.

“Having the right franchise model is so important in enabling

franchisees to have this kind of longevity.”

In the last six months the company has opened its first two branches in Scotland, serving communities in Glasgow and Ayrshire.

Gary added: “None of our success would have been possible without the support of a fantastic head office team and the passion and dedication of our franchisees and their teams who are committed to providing person-centred care of the highest possible quality.

“There are still many parts of the UK that do not have a SureCare franchise including Wales and Northern Ireland, but we expect this to change in the near future.

“We are targeting 30 new franchises in our 30th anniversary year and see no reason why we can’t become a 150-franchise company in the next two years.”

John Ford said: “Gill and I are delighted that the SureCare brand is still going strong after 30 years and that Gary, Josh and the rest of the team remain as passionate about the importance of delivering person-centred care as we did when we launched the business in 1994.”

Westgate Healthcare has announced a strategic expansion initiative aimed at meeting the increasing demand. The expansion plan includes the development and opening of two new care homes in Hertfordshire. The 75-bed Meadowbrook in Borehamwood combines modern design with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Plans for the construction of a contemporary 80-bed care home in Cheshunt are also underway. CEO Sanjiv Patel said: “Our commitment to providing exceptional senior care remains unwavering. The expansion is a strategic response to the growing needs of our ageing population. We are excited to bring our expertise and dedication to new communities and continue making a positive impact on the lives of seniors.”

Gary Farrer

Luxury operator opens new £21.6m Eastbourne home

A £21.6m Hallmark care home which features a cinema, café, hair salon and cocktail bar has officially opened in Eastbourne, East Sussex.

More than 150 guests including Mayor Councillor Candy Vaughan were invited to experience Hallmark Willingdon Park Manor, a new, 85 bed, residential, dementia and nursing home.

Local businesses and care professionals alike were encouraged to tickle their tastebuds, enjoy demonstrations from some of the home’s 90 new team members and view the facilities which include nine luxurious suites, which form part of a unique retirement living offering called The Residences. Residents who live at The

“We are excited to see what the future holds for Willingdon Park Manor and we would like to thank the local community for the incredible, warm welcome we have received to date.”

Residences have access to a premium suite with a kitchenette, and exclusive amenities such as a celebrations area and terrace, fine dining and concierge services.

General manager Ian Cole said: “We had a fabulous time introducing our new home to the Eastbourne community and 90 dedicated team members, who are passionate about supporting residents to thrive in later life.

“Much thought and consideration has gone into Willingdon Park Manor to help

residents live active, independent and fulfilled lives, and we have lots of spaces where residents and their loved ones can enjoy quality time together and make new memories.

“We are excited to see what the future holds for Willingdon Park Manor and we would like to thank the local community for the incredible, warm welcome we have received to date.”

Other features at the home include a sensory room to support residents living with dementia, an

activities room with a baby grand piano, and a winter and summer terrace which will be used for gardening, bird watching and socialising.

Meanwhile outside there is a summer house, gardening club area with raised planters, and a courtyard which supports alfresco dining in the warmer months.

The afternoon event was concluded by speeches and musical entertainment from a harpist and the Download choir.

Managing director at Hallmark Luxury Care Homes, Aneurin Brown, added: “It’s been an exciting but busy few months for Hallmark with two new sites acquired, and the official launch of Midford Manor, our new home in Bath. I am incredibly proud of the team who have made Willingdon Park Manor, the beautiful home that it is today.

“My role now is to provide unwavering support to our teams as they manage the home and deliver exceptional care to residents.

“I have full confidence in their abilities and we are looking forward to build on our reputation of providing 26 years of industryleading care.”

Plas

Lilycross

Melrose

Mayor of Eastbourne Councillor Candy Vaughan officially open’s Hallmark Willingdon Park Manor with general manager Ian Cole, founder Avnish Goyal CBE and managing director Aneurin Brown.

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Broker launches new division and welcomes director

INDEPENDENT boutique finance broker Montane Finance has launched a specialist insurance division aimed at supporting the healthcare and hospitality sectors.

To head up this new division the firm has announced the appointment of Adam Lee. He said: “We are excited about the opportunities this new division represents for our clients and feel ideally positioned to capitalise on new business opportunities.

“The creation of our dedicated insurance division aligns directly with the Montane Group and reflects our commitment to becoming the insurer of choice for the healthcare and hospitality sectors.”

can service clients’ insurance requirements.

A senior insurance professional with 20 years of experience, Adam’s career has seen him work across different sectors, with a focus in the commercial, healthcare and hospitality industries.

He joins Montane Insurance, which has the infrastructure, support and capacity of an experienced insurance broking team.

Group as we continue to grow the business.

“We’re responding to increased demand from our clients to deliver a proactive and full service offering to their funding and insurance needs.

“We’re thrilled to welcome a skilled insurance professional like Adam to the team.

The firm has also acquired a sector related insurance book which means the business is fully operational from day one and

Montane Insurance is based in offices in Winsford, Cheshire and will provide insurance solutions to clients predominantly across the North West and Midlands, as well as nationally.

He has been working alongside the team at Montane Group for the last three years to support their clients’ insurance needs.

Montane Finance managing director Scott Murcott said: “The launch of an insurance division specialising in healthcare and hospitality is a planned and logical step for the Montane

“Building Montane into a full service independent broker is an exciting proposition, and I am looking forward to growing the business further and welcoming more new members to the team in the future.”

Montane Finance has been steadily growing having recorded an uplift in revenue in the past 12 months and dealing with more than £100m of lending cases to a wide variety of businesses across the North West and beyond.

Fee income system for nursing and care homes

DESIGNED to deliver simplicity and ease of use coupled with speed, flexibility and accuracy, SFIncS r/3 (Simple Fee Income System release 3) has a proven track record of more than 12 years in use.

Originally developed and prototyped as an MS Access database, since 2017 SFIncS r/3 has lived entirely on the cloud, so is available 24/7 from anywhere in the world.

As a completely bespoke package, born of necessity and collaboration between seasoned software consultants with ties to the care industry, SFIncS r/3 offers innovations and capabilities not found in any other system.

Separation of sponsor and service user responsibilities permits unlimited sponsor/service user relationships, and as any number of charge codes may be defined, this allows complete flexibility of service user/sponsor / charge code definition. Its unique continuous billing function is the most efficient means possible of defining recurring charges (an entry is

only required when a change occurs) and both an ad hoc charge function and a cashbox module are available for incidental expenses (either or both can be used).

Use of the balance forward accounting principle (which makes unnecessary invoice matching a thing of the past –though invoicing is included) plus super quick receipts entry using just ‘six clicks’ makes SFIncS r/3 almost effortless to use.

Paula Aplin-Jones, who owns and operates Monkstone House Residential Home in Porthcawl, said: “With 41 partly private and partly sponsored service users, some of whom are multiply

funded, it takes me only 30 to 40 minutes per week to keep both my accounts and fee income up to date

“More importantly, I never need to worry about underpaid or overpaid fees – everything is always spot on.

“And the invoices and statements produced let me present the polished and professional image I need.”

SFIncS r/3 integrates easily with any accounting package, can be used by any type of care home and by single or multiple home operators alike.

For

Scott Murcott and Adam Lee

The Out Standing Society’s Diversity Forum march towards London Pride

THE Outstanding Society is delighted to announce that The Out Standing Diversity Forum is proudly marching in the London Pride in June 2024 and everyone is invited.

The Out Standing Diversity Forum is particularly excited to be making its London Pride debut this year as LGBTQ+ history month’s theme was Medicine – #UnderTheScope, and aimed to celebrate LGBTQ+ people’s “contribution to the field of medicine and healthcare both historically and today” fitting perfectly with The OS’s mission to help everyone achieve outstanding care together.

OSDF are delighted that other organisations across the social care sector are in conversations about joining us, from The Care Quality Commission, Skills for Care, Championing Social Care and DHSC.

We expect uptake for our “march with us” tickets to be snapped up very quickly so we have set up an Eventbrite to “register your interest”. People who have registered interest will be alerted first when the tickets are available.

NB: Everyone LGBTQ+ and allies are welcome, though we will prioritise ticket requests from those within the Rainbow family should we be oversubscribed.

The House of Commons, Women and Equalities Committee, Health and Social Care and LGBT Communities, First Report of Session 2019 was, by its own admission, “a clarion call to the health and social care sector” to improve.

The report stated: “We have found that too few health and social care providers are actively thinking about LGBT people when they plan their services and that senior leaders are not doing enough to ensure that LGBT-inclusion is hardwired into commissioning strategies.

“This problem filters all the way down to training, where medics of the future are not taught how to provide LGBT-inclusive treatment.

“While few people set out to discriminate, training currently sends the message that sexual orientation and gender identity are not relevant to providing ‘person-centred care’.

“We have heard that for many witnesses that it is, in fact, essential.

“At the moment, there seems to be neither the leadership necessary to ensure services are designed to be LGBT-inclusive nor swift enough

improvements among staff on the ground”

We want to be part of the push for that improvement

Sanjay Dhrona, director of The Outstanding Society and managing director of The Close Care Home, added: “I know the sector is challenged by the complexities around understanding, celebrating and facilitating diversity in their teams and for their residents.

“As we come up to pride month, LGBTQ+ issues will be at the forefront of many people minds and if your aren’t from the Rainbow Family sometimes, understanding the challenges and LGBTQ+ person can face in your service or setting can be tough.

“The work of the Out Standing Diversity Forum, the first ever cross sector LGBTQ+ network, will be to create a home for best practice around DE&I and share this through The Outstanding Society.

“Our first pride is an opportunity to identify those stakeholders in the sector who are aligned with our mission and vision and we hope to be the vanguard of progress for our teams and residents.”

We’re delighted to also announce that The Outstanding Diversity Forum has been sponsored by Virgin Money.

Virgin Money has a dedicated health and social care team headed by Derek Breingan, set up to assist organisations in the health and social care sector.

Their customers include aged, specialist and child care facilities, real estate and development finance, dentists and dental practices, hospitals and medical centres, pharmacists and pharmacies, doctors and medical practices. They also support Championing Social Care and The National Care Association.

Derek added: “With the significant impact that social care has in our communities, and the diversity within them, Virgin Money health and social care team is delighted to be able to support the Out Standing Diversity Forum in order to help promote its aims and inclusion and sustainability in the sector.”

You can find out more about The Outstanding Diversity Forum and register your interest at https:// theoutstandingsociety.co.uk/osforum/

And if you’d like to be part of The Outstanding Society you can sign up for a free membership at https:// theoutstandingsociety.co.uk/contact/

And remember, you do not have to be rating Outstanding by CQC to join.

You simply have to want to get there and help others to get there too.

A Positive Outlook for Care

Join us for an informative day meeting care suppliers, industry experts and like-minded care professionals.

Village Hotel, Blackpool 8th May 2024

Holiday Inn, Barnsley 10th July 2024

Ramside Hall, Durham 9th May 2024

Dunston Hall, Norwich 30th October 2024

Visit more than 25 exhibition stands showcasing the latest products. Speakers topics will include:

• An update on the care sector and the way forward.

• The new CQC framework.

• Nourishing lives - promoting good nutrition in care settings.

• Improving dementia care through experience.

• Recruitment and staff retention.

All delegates receive:

• Lunch and refreshments

• Goody bag and attendance certificate

• Enter our prize draw with some amazing prizes

Scan the QR code to visit our website, find out more information and book your place, or alternatively call us on 01226 734412 or email