October 2012
incorporating The Number One magazine for the care sector
no.197 • £4.75 In association with
Study calls for medication to be reviewed By Dominic Musgrave REGULAR clinical reviews of psychotropic medication should be established in all Scottish care homes after a study found almost half of residents may be kept on sedatives that make them “easier and more convenient to manage”. The research by the University of Dundee and NHS Fife found two in five care home residents were taking the drugs – compared with one in six who live in their own homes. The report, carried out over a twoyear period in Tayside, also found that seven in 10 people who were taking the drugs when they went into care homes were then never reassessed to see if they still needed them. Dr Colin McCowan, deputy director of the Health Informatics Centre at Dundee University, and one of the authors of the report, said systematic reviews should be carried out on all residents in the country’s 911 care homes who are taking the drugs, to ensure there are medical grounds for using them. He added: “This study presents a complex picture of the prescribing and use of these medicines. Psychotropic drug use is significantly higher in care home residents but they would seem to be initiated
primarily before people are admitted. This may be evidence against the belief that initiation is largely driven by care home staff to make residents easier or more convenient to manage. “There may be valid reasons for the initiation of these drugs, but prolonged use of psychotropic medication in older people is not recommended and may cause harm. “The key issue our study suggests is that there should be systematic medication reviews for patients on these drugs, to highlight drugs that may be discontinued if the reasons for their initial prescription are no longer valid.” The study follows a recent UK Parliamentary report which expressed concern that the ‘inappropriate use’ of antipsychotics and antidepressants in care homes was a ‘means of controlling patients’. Stella Clark, of NHS Fife, said: “We have recently seen data for the whole of England which showed a reduction in the prescription of antipsychotics to people with dementia. “This is a really important area of prescribing where changes can be made which will improve patient safety and there is a clear need for national guidance to be developed.”
Provider unveils training scheme
Campaigner Amanda Waring is the keynote speaker at a care sector conference organised and hosted by Leeds law firm Lee & Priestley LLP. The Yorkshire care conference is taking place at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford on September 28. The speakers include a compliance manager for the CQC and a sector media expert examining the way the press can tarnish a home or provider’s reputation.
AVERY Healthcare has launched InterACTION – an innovative training programme for recreation and leisure organisers across the business. The 10 module programme covers: The role of the recreation and leisure organiser; The ageing process and the benefits of an active lifestyle; Documentation; community links; Designing innovative programmes; Reminiscence; Digital inclusion; Group work; Themes and Activities. Lindsay Kelly, group recreation and leisure organiser at Avery said, “Alongside writing and compiling the new programme, a career pathway has been devised that includes external training in specific areas as required to support features of the programmes. “This allows organisers to offer flexibility to the more independent residents and additional support to those less able or those living with dementia.”
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Mock street created at Bristol care home By Dominic Musgrave A MOCK 1950s street has been created within the grounds of a care home in Winterbourne, near Bristol to provide a place where residents can spend time and spark memories of their youth. Memory Lane at Blossom Fields, a care home for the elderly, and The Grove, a specialist dementia care home next door, includes a greengrocers, a post office with a genuine George VI post box in the wall, the White Horse pub, a telephone box and a bus stop with a seat where people can relax. Christopher Taylor, senior manager of owners Grove Care, said the project is a way to help elderly and dementia sufferers remember the past, prompt conversation with visitors and care staff and provide a place where residents can go out safely, He added: “Rather than just sit in a garden most elderly people want to see something and go somewhere to keep their minds active. Memory Lane is a destination to make a walk around our grounds worthwhile. “Some of the people we care for ask staff if they can go out to the shops, the pub or to the bus. This will enable staff to allow them to get their coats on and go down to Memory Lane. It is a safe envi-
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Residents Arthur Lloyd and Pat Deverell with carer Daniella Moss. ronment for them. “For our other elderly people it is a place they can go with their families. We are filling the street with 1950s memorabilia. So there will be ration books, old newspapers, shop window displays, posters and groceries that will all create interest and prompt conversations and memories. “Although care homes have created 1950s rooms in the past for dementia patients we do not know of any other street like this. We have had great fun col-
lecting the items for the street and we are still looking for items to keep the interest of our residents and welcome donations of 1950s ephemera that will fit into the street.” A sensory garden opened at the home three years ago with special planting that includes herbs, fragrant flowers, coloured pathways and an aviary to stimulate interest in dementia patients. A sensory room includes massage chairs, aromatherapy, spa treatments and relaxation music and DVDs indoors.
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Home fined after resident’s death By Dominic Musgrave
Residents and staff of the Hartford Care Group of residential care homes have raised almost £1,700 for Alzheimer’s Society through a series of events over the past 12 months. Events held at the group’s eight care homes included summer fetes, cream teas, themed dinners and residents’ parties. Natalie Bettinson, community fundraiser for Hampshire, accepted a cheque on behalf of Alzheimer’s Society from CEO Sean Gavin and Gemma Ridout-Bowden, manager of Bethel House, along with Sue Burton, operations manager and some staff and residents from the home.
Annual fete raises funds A CARE home near Norwich opened its doors to the community as it held its annual summer fete. Members of the local community joined residents and staff in the gardens of Cedar House to raise money for the residents’ activities fund. Entertainment included a range of stalls, face painting and a bouncy castle, but the star attraction of the day was the
‘human fruit machine’. Residents manned the fruit machine holding up pieces of fruit once visitors had paid their money. Manager Debra Read said: “It is always wonderful when the community comes together to support these events – it is important to our residents that they remain an active part of the wider community.”
THE owners of a West Yorkshire care home have been told to pay almost £180,000 in fines and costs after a 93year-old resident died because established safety measures were neglected. Elsie Beals asphyxiated after becoming trapped in the gap between her mattress and incorrectly-fitted bed safety rails at Aden Court Care Home in Huddersfield on April 24, 2010. New Century Care Ltd of Sidcup, Kent, a private company with around 27 UK care homes, was prosecuted for a serious safety breach by the Health and Safety Executive after it investigated the incident. Leeds Crown Court was told that the company, which has approximately 1,700 employees, had failed to train staff at Aden Court to fit bed safety rails. HSE also found that staff were not trained to carry out regular 'inuse' checks to make sure bed rails remained properly adjusted, or to carry out risk assessments for their use. After the case HSE Inspector Jacqueline Ferguson, who investigated the incident, said that New Century Care's safety failings came despite widespread
Government medical advice on the safe use of bed rails in the health and social care sector. She added: “This was a terrible tragedy that could have been so easily avoided. Bed safety rails are used extensively in the health and social care sectors to protect vulnerable people from falling out of bed. “The risks of their use are well documented, actively published and widely recognised in the health care industry. “There are several causes of injury involving bed rails used incorrectly. The most serious is asphyxiation as a result of being trapped by the head or neck. This can happen because a rail is not designed for use with a particular bed, or because of poor bed rail design leading to too much space between the rails. “Staff at Aden Court had no instruction in how to carry out risk assessments for the safe use of bed rails and no training in how to fit them correctly and keep them safely adjusted.” New Century Care Ltd was fined £160,000 and ordered to pay £18,000 in costs for breaching Section 3(1) of the Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974. The firm had pleaded guilty at a previous hearing.
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Sector calls on new Minister to ‘show political leadership’ By Dominic Musgrave THE care sector has been giving its verdict on David Cameron’s recent Cabinet reshuffle. The Primer Minister has replaced Andrew Lansley as Health Secretary with Jeremy Hunt, while Norman Lamb takes over as the Minister for Care Services from Paul Burstow. Dr Chai Patel CBE, chairman of care home provider HC-One, said: “Andrew Lansley rightly established the Dilnot Commission and began to grapple with the challenge of how we fund long term care. “While we wish Jeremy well in his new role, the elephant in the room is where does this leave the Dilnot report’s recommendations? If the new secretary of state attempts to kick this issue into the long grass, then this reshuffle will be a huge step backwards for social care in this country.” Professor Chris Ham, chief executive at The King’s Fund, called on Jeremy to ‘show political leadership by supporting the case for radical transformation in the delivery of care’. He added: “Jeremy Hunt takes up his post with the NHS performing well after years of investment and reform. However, fundamental changes in the way care is delivered
Professor Chris Ham
Pushpa Raguvaran
are needed if the NHS is to respond to the demands of an ageing population, changing burden of disease and rising patient expectations. “Although funding pressures on the NHS and social care are an immediate and pressing concern, he must focus on addressing the longer term challenges and ensure change benefits patients.” Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, said the charity is looking forward to working with the new ministers. He added: ‘The Prime Minister has
made dementia a particular challenge for this government. We look forward to Jeremy Hunt and Norman Lamb working with us to deliver on that challenge, changing lives and attitudes to make communities more dementia friendly.” Housing 21 chief executive Pushpa Raguvaran said: “We're really pleased to see Dr Dan Poulter as a junior health minister as he is a keen advocate of extra care housing. He has seen some of the benefits for himself recently at Housing 21's Holm Court, in his constituency near Ipswich.”
Residents take part in walk
RESIDENTS from Bradbury House in Essex took part in a specially organised dementia ‘walk and talk’ event. Hylands Park in Chelmsford played host to the day that was organised by ‘Dementia Adventure’. The walks are intended to provide a breath of fresh air for people living with dementia and their partners or carers as it is thought that being out in the open can provide real health benefits. More than half of the residents from Bradbury House went along, with many carers coming in on their day off to help. After the walk, two of the residents got the opportunity to have a ride in an open topped car. Manager Nikki Leaney said: “Resident feedback was wonderful. One lady told me that the only thing we forgot was the wine so we promised to add it to the shopping list for next year. “This is the second time we have arranged to take part in the event and it has proven to be of excellent therapeutic benefit, especially for those with dementia.”
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Residents to rate their satisfaction for new survey
Older people living at Belong Crewe have been involved in a university student’s study of the holistic benefits of reflexology. Lisa Wilkinson (pictured above) has been working with a group of residents to investigate the benefits of reflexology for people living with dementia as part of her foundation degree in complementary therapy from the University of Chester. Lisa has applied the theory that feet are a map of the body to provide residents with a therapeutic experience. Over the course of six weeks she has been applying pressure to specific points on residents’ feet with the aim of improving their overall well-being. She said: “Over the weeks it has been rewarding to build relationships with individuals, and see them respond positively to the whole experience.”
CARE home residents across the UK will rate their satisfaction in an unprecedented survey designed to help those choosing care. Almost 50,000 residents in 850 homes run by some of the biggest care home providers have received the independent survey. It is being conducted by a new organisation, Your Care Rating, which has commissioned market research company Ipsos MORI to research, design and implement the survey. The Your Care Rating survey will be an industry-standard, independent one that will be conducted annually and enable care providers and customers to compare results from one care home to the next. Customers will be asked to rate factors including activities, privacy, security, food, outdoor areas, staff, whether they are happy at the home and whether they would recommend it. The results will be published early next year. A total of 13 national and regional organisations have signed up to the initiative, including those from the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. Douglas Quinn, chairman of Castleoak Group and a founder member of Your Care Rating said:
“We are delighted that this initiative, which was conceived at our 2011 Innovation Exchange, has come to fruition. “The Your Care Rating survey is an opportunity for customers to say what they think about a range of issues. It will help those looking for a care home to make an informed decision based on residents’ real experiences. “A great deal of care has been taken in the design and piloting of the survey to make sure that the survey is accessible to as many residents as possible. The process has been designed to allow relatives, friends and volunteers to assist residents with survey completion, but it is the residents’ views that will be captured.” It is hoped that many more care providers and care homes will join the year two survey that will be conducted in September 2013. It is open to care organisations of any size. The initiative follows an agreement in June by care home and home care providers to publish data on areas including complaints and staff turnover as part of the industryled Transparency and Quality Compact.
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Creative perfumer Kate Williams with residents.
Therapy is heaven scent A PERFUME expert has blended fragrances with music from Hallé orchestra musicians to give care home residents with dementia a new experience. They have listened to music from Spain with the smell of oranges in the air and soothing music set to the scent of lavender, while the whiff of the beach set the scene for some water music. The collaboration between top creative perfumer Kate Williams and Hallé musicians is being explored by the Pendine Park care organisation. Pendine Park’s artist-in-residence
Sarah Edwards said: “For our first session we had a theme – ‘holidays’ – and matched the music and fragrances accordingly. “The reaction from the residents was good. We noticed the fragrances stimulated them, particularly the orange smell when they became a lot noisier. “The lavender made everyone more chilled and relaxed. “The fragrance therapy is part of a wider project to create new training modules for our care staff, promoting the arts and various therapies so we can enrich people's lives.”
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A popular dance from the streets of Mexico has been shown to improve the behaviour and mood of people with dementia. Dominic Musgrave reports.
Dance classes improve behaviour DANZON, a simple-to-follow Latin ballroom style dance enjoyed in impromptu dances in Mexico has been brought to UK care homes by Dr Azucena Guzmán García, as part of her PhD research at Newcastle University. Through short twice-weekly dance classes, residents were introduced to some simple steps allowing them to dance together to uplifting Danzón music. "While dancing is often considered entertainment in care homes, I believe that it can be useful practice," said Azucena, who now works at the Dementia Research Centre, North East London NHS Foundation Trust. “I found that these dance classes helped calm agitation and improved mood and quality of life for people with dementia. There are also obvious advantages in terms of physical fitness. “I witnessed the joy people got from taking part in the dancing and for residents who were watching, the laughter and happy memories it generated.” Azucena designed a programme with each dance session lasting approximately 30 minutes and involving a warm-up, Danzón practice, free-style dancing and a cool down.
Dr Azucena Guzmán García Staff at Tyneside care homes were trained to lead sessions so that the dancing could continue after the end of the study. They reported that the dancing was a form of mental stimulation and regardless of the residents' level of dementia they were immersed in the activity. Mary Watson, proprietor of Rosewood Villa in Throckley, Newcastle, where the classes were trialled, said: “We could see how much people enjoyed the dancing and it brought back some lovely memories which they were able to share with us of when they were younger. “We found that the men wanted to join in with the dancing and this is
Residents taking part in one of Azucena’s sessions. important to us as it can be harder to find activities that they want to take part in. “On the days when the dancing was on, the men made an effort to dress smartly and told us how they were looking forward to it which was really nice.” Staff found that dancing improved the trust between residents and themselves, was a means for acceptable social touch and improved
communication to the extent that staff were able to reduce a resident's anxiety. Azucena now wants to see the study repeated on a bigger scale. She added: "I would encourage all care homes to consider structured and regular dance sessions because of the benefits it brings in terms of behaviour and social interaction which means it can be considered positive for dementia care."
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Care home gets fourstar rating A GLASGOW care home has been awarded a grade four rating in its latest inspection by the Care Inspectorate, the independent scrutiny and improvement body for care and children’s services. The report findings have been welcomed by staff and Cumbrae House’s management team, which has invested significantly in enhancing services at the 66 bed home. Lorna Flanagan, manager of the Lambhill Court Limited owned home, said: “We are committed to providing a homely environment where our residents are respected, and feel content and secure without compromising their independence. 'These new grades are testimony to the commitment and dedication of our staff and reflect the views of our residents and their relatives. We are by no means complacent but it is welcome feedback following our continued efforts over the past year.” The Care Inspectorate noted that there had been a significant improvement with regards to participation from the previous inspection as this was evident from the new forums in place.
Blooming good show as home’s garden wins gold By Dominic Musgrave A SHROPSHIRE care home is celebrating after winning a Gold award and the prize for the Best Outdoor Garden at one of Europe’s largest flower shows. The Uplands at Oxon, which is run by Marches Care Limited, entered a sensory garden into Shrewsbury Flower Show. The garden was dismantled after the show and it is now being installed in the grounds at the Uplands where it can be used by residents, their families and other visitors. The Uplands Sensory Garden was designed by Caspar Gabb, a past Gold winner at Chelsea Flower Show, who worked closely with the home’s directors to achieve a space which will stimulate the senses of all who visit it. Mandy Thorn, managing director of Marches Care, said she was delighted both with the result and what it will add to the gardens at the Uplands. She added: “While it was brilliant to win such a prestigious award, this project was very much for the long term and we envisage the sensory garden being enjoyed by everyone at the Uplands for many years to come. “There is such a wide range of plants which are stimulating visually as well as to the nose and touch, as well as a constantly flowing water fea-
The Uplands’ award winning sensory garden at Shrewsbury Flower Show. ture, shaded bench on which to relax and a potting table specially designed for wheelchair users. “It is a garden which can be enjoyed by all but it has been devised with older adults particularly in mind, especially those who may have impairments to their minds, eyes, ears or mobility, and for whom it should provide a level of therapy and
wellbeing. “A great deal of thought has gone into the design and it is certainly a garden which prompts feelings of calm and tranquillity. “I am hopeful that the garden will be ready for use at the Uplands by the end of September and I know the residents are hugely excited by the prospect of using it.”
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Staff from Somerset Care’s Torbay community office took part in a 15-mile sleep walk and raised more than £1,000 for Rowcroft Hospice. ‘The Care Bears’ consisted of Sally Kenyon, Katie Sanders, Becci Hooper, Shona Walton, Martina Holland, Sally Rowse and Lori Howard. The team started their walk at 7.30pm and finished at 2.10am.
Owner backs Minister call By Dominic Musgrave
A LANCASHIRE care home group chairman has called for the Government to swiftly put into action the results of a Commons debate which calls for a Minister for Older People to be appointed. Ken Nolan, chairman of Springhill Care Group, based in Accrington, is calling for the Government to followup and respond to the campaigners who presented a 137,000-strong petition demanding a Minister dedicated to the needs of older people. He said: “We feel strongly that this should now be carried through the political process and adopted as soon as practically possible. “This is a major issue and a dedicated Minister at this time could make all the difference in handling some difficult issues of funding, services and governance around the quality of care across this sector.” The appointment of such a Minister is not unprecedented – the govern-
ments of Canada and Ireland already have dedicated Ministers for Older People. The UK already has a Children’s Minister, a Minister for Women and Equalities and a Minister for Disabled People. Last October Labour leader Ed Miliband appointed Liz Kendall MP as Shadow Minister for Care and Older People attending the Shadow Cabinet. The Commons motion was carried by a majority agreement and campaign group Grey Pride is now putting pressure on the Prime Minister to act. Grey Pride says it is looking to encourage greater dignity for older people, reclaim growing old as a positive experience and break down the barriers preventing older people leading happy, fulfilling lives. Do you agree that there needs to be a dedicated Minister for Older People? Email your thoughts to dm@scriptmedia .co.uk or tweet them to @caringuk
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First diabetes audit unveiled
Two of the first Hica employees to complete a team manager training course launched by the independent care providers earlier this year have been appointed as care home managers. Kathryne Pearce and Adam Randall (pictured above) have both risen through the ranks after progressing through Hica’s training academy. Kathryne joined the organisation in 2001 and Adam in 2008. Kathryne, who was previously deputy manager at The Rowans care home in Kirk Ella, has become manager at Overton House in Cottingham. Adam is the new manager at Longhill House in Hull after being deputy manager there.
A DRIVE to improve the quality of diabetes has been launched with the first Care Home Diabetes Audit. Home owners are being encouraged to take part in the England-wide survey to examine current diabetes procedures and practices at a time when the proportion of residents with diabetes has already approached 27 per cent. The audit seeks to identify quality standards that can be picked up by the CQC to be used for assessment of the quality of diabetes care being delivered in care home settings. The survey is a national initiative led by the Institute of Diabetes for Older People and the professional organisation for all medical diabetes specialists, Association of British Clinical Diabetologists, with the full support and collaboration of multiple stakeholders. Audit Lead Professor Alan Sinclair, Director of IDOP and National Clinical Lead for Diabetes in Older People, said: “The primary purposes of this audit are firstly, to ascertain what areas of diabetes care within residential settings can be further supported and secondly, to gain better insight into the difficulties of providing enhanced
care. This audit has the potential to improve care for older people with diabetes living in care homes in England, and give insight on how to provide staff with the training and support that they need, as well as assisting managers and policymakers to allocate resources.� The recently completed Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire diabetes care home audit pilot revealed significant variations in the access to training and education of care home staff who deal with residents with diabetes. There was also evidence of inconsistent documentation, including specific policies for the management of diabetes. Questionnaires will be sent to care homes across the country. This audit will be examined by using anonymous data and any reports that arise will not identify specific care homes. A summary of the key findings will be available to participants. This project follows the recentlypublished Diabetes UK national guidance on diabetes in care homes in 2010,, which has sought to enhance the standard of care received by residents with diabetes.
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Regulator calls for your views By Dominic Musgrave
Barbara Cluley with the Kindle.
Kindling a passion for reading A BROMSGROVE care home has turned to technology to help its residents continue with one of their favourite pastimes. Residents at Wayside have been using an electronic book reader to enable them to enjoy their favourite novels. The Kindle has been purchased to help residents who struggle to read the small print in normal books. It enables residents to read books in large print without having to cope with a cumbersome heavy book. Avid reader Barbara Cluley, aged 85,
who loves murder mysteries, was one of the first residents to try out the new Kindle. Activities coordinator Sue Macfarlane said: “Barbara loves to read. “ We have a large selection of her favourite books but, as these are in large print, they are too heavy for Barbara to hold. “The Kindle has been great for her. It’s very lightweight and we can make the print as big as she needs it. We’ve loaded it up with some murder mysteries for her to enjoy.”
THE inspectorate is asking for views on its plans for the next three years. In a consultation paper on its strategy for 2013-2016, the CQC sets out proposals for what it thinks it should focus on and what the public and others can expect from it. New chief executive David Behan said: “For CQC, being successful means that more health and care services meet quality and safety standards – and improve quickly if they don’t. “I want people to know that together with Healthwatch as the consumer champion we will listen to them and use their experiences to help inform the judgments we make about services. “And I want to ensure providers of services understand what good looks like and what is unacceptable so they can improve the services they provide.” The consultation paper also says that over the next three years CQC will improve the way it uses information to help it spot and address poor care faster. It will highlight what works well so the people who run health and care services can improve the quality of the care they provide. And it will make it easier for people
to access and understand its information. At the same time, it will continue to carry out thousands of regular unannounced inspections and go in at any time where there are concerns about poor care. David added: “Perhaps the most significant of our proposed changes is that we’ll tailor the way we regulate different types of organisations based on what has the most impact on driving improvement. We will put people’s views at the centre of what we do. We also recognise we need to work more effectively with others. We have a common goal with other organisations to improve the quality of health and care services. By sharing information and acting together we will be more effective in driving improvement.” The consultation paper asks for people’s views on seven specific questions about the proposed approach. These cover how CQC regulates services, how it manages its independence, its relationship with the public and with organisations that provide care, its role in the complaints system, its responsibilities in relation to mental health services and on how it can measure its own impact. It runs until December 6.
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David Miliband with Housing 21 locality manager Claire Charlton, East Croft Court manager Catherine Hay and Councillor Peter Boyack.
MP keeps his promise and returns to care scheme WHEN the Rt. Hon David Miliband visited a new housing scheme for older people in Whitburn last year he promised to return. And he recently kept his promise and joined residents at East Croft for morning coffee. The South Shields MP last saw the scheme of 30 apartments and 20 bungalows when it was newly completed. This visit gave him the opportunity to find out how the residents are settling into their new homes.
Among those meeting David were Coun Peter Boyack, who lives in one of the bungalows at East Croft, and Coun Tracey Dixon who was instrumental in bringing about the new development. He said: “It is great that such a new development has a warm community spirit, the residents I met love their new homes and the fact that they have a library, shops and a fantastic coastline right on their doorstep.”
Experts join forces for new care films By Dominic Musgrave
EXPERTS working in elderly care have combined to produce a series of professional films covering various topics within the sector. The 10 short informative films – covering the areas of nutrition, exercise therapy and activities – are being offered to anyone working in care, or in related sectors, in the UK. Produced by Wellburn Care Homes, a company that operates care homes in the North East and North Yorkshire, the films feature interviews with Sylvie Silver, director of the National Association of Providers of Activities for Older People, Carole Marshall, nutritionist and lecturer at Northumbria University and Ben Allen, managing director of Oomph Wellness Ltd. He said: “Continuing to exercise later in life is vital and through these films we are able to demonstrate that exercise therapy is fully inclusive and have tremendous physical and mental benefits.” The titles of the films are: Activities and the community Activities in dementia care
End of life care Volunteering in the care sector Nutrition and the elderly Cholesterol in the elderly Health ageing Stroke risk in the elderly Exercise therapy for the elderly Falls prevention in the elderly Wellburn managing director Karl Beckett said: “The three respected experts in their field gave up their time free of charge because, like us, they knew this was not about selfpromotion but rather about providing useful information that will be of interest to everyone working in and around the care sector. “We hope as many people and organisations as possible will take advantage of the free films and use them for their own specific purposes.” The films can be viewed on www.wellburncare.co.uk or via the group’s YouTube page www.youtube.com/wellburncarehomes Alternatively, they can be supplied on DVD by contacting Abbie Taylor on 0191 2293541 or emailing abbietaylor@wellburncare.co.uk
Fashion show raises money for Trust A POOLE care home helped raise more than £1,500 for the Youth Cancer Trust. Colten Care's Canford Chase in Branksome Park hosted a vintage fashion show organised by Bournemouth-based ethical fashion
organisation, WeDoReDo. More than 70 people attended the event, which also included street dancers, a display of beachwear and handmade Mexican jewellery.Karen Burdon, Colten Care's activities coordinator, was among the models.
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Dame Jo resigns as CQC chair The team who took part in the challenge.
Group scales peaks for charity By Dominic Musgrave A GROUP of professionals from across the health and social care sector raised more than £3,000 for charity by walking the three highest peaks in Yorkshire in under 12 hours. The 26-mile challenge to scale Peny-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society was organised by Vicky and Paul Marsden, directors of national permanent recruitment company Health and Social Care Jobs. It is believed to be the country’s first health and social care net walk. Vicky told Caring UK the inspiration came from the desire to raise money for a charity within the sector. It was
also to create an opportunity for people from the sector to get together and spend time with like-minded people from a range of backgrounds away from the workplace. “From the start everyone hit it off, and by the end of the weekend it was like we had known each other all our lives. I am very proud and emotional of how well it went and that everyone arrived back safe and sound. “I can’t believe that people travelled from as far afield as Dorset in a mini bus for 10 hours to participate, but it was worth it – we all had a great time. The team spirit was unbelievable and everyone looked after one another.” For co-director Paul Marsden the challenge was extra tough. He had his
spine fused two years ago but managed the walk in less than 12 hours and has already started to organise next year’s event. He added: “There are so few opportunities for health and social care professionals to get together away from the confines of the workplace. “However, the primary aim was to meet some great people and have a bit of fun while raising money for charity, and that was certainly achieved.” Representatives from Agincare, Home Instead, Sevacare, Mimosa Healthcare, Roche Healthcare and Domus Healthcare were just some of those that took part.
DAME Jo Williams has resigned as the chair of the CQC. She will remain in the post until a successor is appointed, having served on the inspectorate's board for the last four years three in her current role. Jo said: “It has been a demanding and complex role, and there have undoubtedly been challenges as we registered 40,000 providers and brought the entire health and social care system under one set of standards. “But there is now clear evidence that our regulation is beginning to have an impact on the care that people receive, and it feels as if the organisation is moving into the next stage of its development. “And I am delighted that I have been able to appoint David Behan as the new chief executive. I am confident that he will continue to build on the progress that we have made in promoting and protecting the health and safety of people who use services. “It has been a privilege to hold this important role, but I now believe it is time to step aside and for a new chair to lead CQC into the next stage.”
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New home opened by local hero
Group honours its staff at annual ceremony
AN East Sussex care home was officially opened by local artist and self-confessed thrillseeker, Barry West. Hurstwood View, Barchester's new 55-bed care home in Five Ash Down, will provide nursing, residential and dementia care to the neighbouring area. Barry was nominated as a local hero to open the home. At the age of 19 he was involved in a car accident which left him paralysed from the chest down but able to make head movements. A few years ago, Barry discovered a talent that he didn't even know he had. Before his life changing accident, he had never painted. It was 15 years later when Barry gave mouth painting a go, and, it turned out that he had an incredible eye for art. Barry snipped the ribbon using mouth scissors before guests admired his painting of his ascent of Ben Nevis, which is on display at the home. This will be changed each month to feature other local artists. General manager Jane Higgins said: "We will definitely support Barry when he makes a chin-controlled ascent of Kilimanjaro. At Hurstwood View we will focus on growing our community with residents and staff to make this house a real home.”
By Dominic Musgrave SOME of Scotland’s top carers have been honoured at a prestigious awards ceremony. Members of staff representing Meallmore care homes throughout the country celebrated in style at Perth Racecourse after winning a host of awards handed out by the family run provider. The company hosts the annual ceremony to recognise employees who make a special difference to the lives of residents and their families. This year, finalists from more than 350 entries, battled it out in 11 different categories. Managing director Gerry Hennessey said: “Care workers are some of the most valuable, yet least recognised members of society. “Every day they really do make a positive impact on people’s lives, giving peace of mind to families and friends who can feel confident you are supporting the people they know and love. “Meallmore staff place clients at the heart of its care provision and I’m proud of some of the great achievements of many of our staff.” All winners will now go forward to the National Scottish Care Awards to be held in November.
Meallmore winners show off the awards with Gerry Hennessey Award winners were: Eating well/nutrition – Janet Prentice, Hilton Court (Rosyth); ancillary worker Anne Fullerton, Airthrey Care (Airth); head office support – Helen Dingwall, Caulfield House (Inverness); meaningful activities – Sheila Conner, Kinmylies Lodge (Inverness); care newcomer – Hannah Johnston, The Grove (Aberdeenshire); specialist dementia – Alma Macatangay, Meallmore Lodge (Inverness); specialist adult care – Jens Pederson,
At Home Service (Inverness) and Laura Brown, Hilton Court (Rosyth); nurse – Jane Reales, Forthland Lodge (Edinburgh); senior care worker – Kathleen Horne, Belleaire House (Greenock); carer – Linda Hendry, Meallmore Lodge (Inverness); manager – Karen Duncan, Kynnaird (Aberdeenshire). Winners were presented with an engraved crystal plaque and gift voucher and runners up received a certificate of recognition.
CARINGNEWS
Jean Adams, resident at Langford View Care Centre and Eric Pink, resident at Westgate House in Wallingford with the Showgirls.
Residents get red carpet treatment THE glitz and glamour of the silver screen was brought to Oxfordshire with a special event for more than 200 care home residents. The Hollywood themed day was organised by The Orders of St John Care Trust at The Kings Centre in Osney Mead for residents and staff from its 18 homes in the county. The highlight was an appearance by Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin tribute artists, who serenaded the crowds with Rat Pack and swing hits. Residents and staff, dressed in their finest glad rags, were also treated to a performance from the Showgirls who impressed guests with their Las Vegas inspired dance routines. There was also comedy and songs from Jeff Denton, activity coordinator at Mayott House, who compered the event dressed as Elvis. A white stretch limo and red carpet added some extra glamour to the day. Activities and volunteers manager Sharon Wheeler, who organised the
event, said: “This is the biggest annual event that we organise for our Oxfordshire homes and it’s a fantastic opportunity for staff, residents and volunteers from all of the homes and day centres to come together, make new friends and really enjoy themselves. “The residents really look forward to it and love getting involved by making decorations and costumes to wear on the day. “Our staff and volunteers really get into the spirit of things, wearing fancy dress outfits, decorating the hall and helping to serve the food.” As part of the celebrations, the annual gardening awards were given out to homes across the county to celebrate the work that green-fingered residents and staff have been doing over the past year. Categories included best wildlife garden, best themed garden and best overall garden, which was won by Lake House in Adderbury.
Leon Smith with Minette Castillo, Jan Jan Libas, Mary Nathan, ex-trustee and member of the Nightingale House committee, Martha Matsvai, Letie Clarke and Cathy Walker.
Gold medals for dedicated staff FIVE staff have been awarded ‘gold’ medals by Nightingale House for their inspiration and dedication to making a positive difference to the care home. The internal awards scheme was set up to recognise and award staff for their work. Nightingale House staff nominated up to five staff members each for the awards. In total, 130 staff were nominated by their colleagues
and 31 were shortlisted before the five winners were chosen by a panel chaired by Leon Smith, chief executive of Nightingale Hammerson. Over 60 staff watched as Minette Castillo, senior carer, Jan Jan Libas, carer, Martha Matsvai, registered nurse, Letie Clarke, laundry supervisor and Cathy Walker, building services supervisor received their accolades.
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Entrepreneurs on an activity mission By Dominic Musgrave
Residents and guests of Stretton Hall nursing home, Church Stretton, enjoyed an evening of cheese and wine tasting at an event organised by Morris Care. The cheeses, provided by a local delicatessen, ranged from regional Shropshire Blue to fresh Italian mozzarella and Mexican chilli cheddar. A selection of red, white and fortified wines from across Europe and further afield was also available to try. Musical accompaniment to the evening was provided by a local harpist, who played a range of classical melodies. Residents Sylvia Lloyd and Joan Jones are pictured with guests Clive Lloyd and Shirley Baker and harpist Emma Spandrzyk.
TWO young entrepreneurs are joining forces to ensure elderly care homes across the UK have access to innovative activity-based products designed specifically for people with dementia. Ben Atkinson-Willes and Ben Allen are on a mission to ensure as many care home operators as possible are aware of the products and the benefits they can have on individuals with dementia. These include specially designed jigsaw puzzles, reusable waterpainting kits and reminiscence-based picture books. The products are made and sold by Active Minds, a company set up by 25-year-old Ben Atkinson-Willes in 2009. He established the company after personal experience with his grandfather highlighted the lack of suitable activities for people who, like him, were living with dementia. Active Minds sells to individuals and organisations across the world, but the company is particularly keen to increase usage of its products to care homes in the UK. It is hoping to do this through 26year-old Ben Allen, who runs an exercise therapy company called Oomph that currently delivers
exercise-based classes to over 300 nursing and residential care homes. Ben Atkinson-Willes said: “The thoughtfully designed puzzles allow users of all abilities to complete them without assistance and they also help to stimulate conversation as well as giving a valuable sense of achievement and pride. “Through Oomph we are hoping to highlight the benefits of these products to the care home operators, so as many people as possible who have dementia in these care environments can benefit from them.” Oomph instructors will raise awareness of the Active Minds products when they are working in the care homes and, together, the pair hope to increase the number of people with dementia who are accessing the activities. Ben Allen said: “There are many synergies between our two businesses, the most important being that we are both trying to improve the quality of life for elderly people. “The music-based activities we provide in care homes are proven to help people with dementia, so if care homes can complement these with activities designed specifically with dementia sufferers in mind, then it is a win, win situation for everyone.”
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Free leaflet to help care staff spot fire risks CARE workers are to be given new advice in a bid to cut fire deaths by helping them spot the tell tale signs of someone who is at high risk of having a fire. Figures in a London Fire Brigade report revealed that one person receiving care is dying from fire every month in the capital. For the first time care workers in England will get extra information about fire safety to support their introductory training. Chair of London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority’s Strategy Committee, Coun Crada Onuegbu, said this will give them extra potentially life-saving information on how to spot the signs of a person who is most at risk of dying or being seriously injured, should a fire occur. She added: “Care staff do a fantastic job of supporting people within our communities and those who have mobility issues. Sadly these people are among the most at risk from dying in a fire. “Now care staff will have the skills to spot the warning signs and help prevent these terrible deaths.”
Fire chiefs are asking care staff to get in touch with their local fire and rescue service if they notice any of the vital early warning signs, in order to prevent a fire from happening. The induction standards for care workers and managers developed by Skills for Care have a fire safety element but a new free leaflet includes guidance on how to access free advice from their local fire service. Skills for Care CEO Sharon Allen said care workers are often the first to see the tell tale signs like burn marks on carpets from cigarettes or a smoke alarm that has run out of battery. She added: “Brigades across the country have made significant progress in preventing fires so we would urge care workers and their managers to contact their local officers who can offer free expert advice to anyone they think might be at risk.” Working with care staff is part of the London Fire Brigade’s drive to reduce fire deaths by as much as 30 per cent in the next three years. Other work includes calling for sprinklers to be installed in all new care homes.
Amy Watts, Gina Childs and Caroline Hayes with some of the turkey products.
Homes celebrate British food HALLMARK care homes enjoyed two weeks dedicated to celebrating British food as an official partner of Love British Food, the pioneers of British Food Fortnight. The main celebration was a special family feast day. Chefs were provided with a variety of turkey products, the theme for the event, and asked to come up with new and delicious recipes incorporating the traditional meat. Once the cooking was done, everyone sat down together to enjoy the freshly prepared food and good company.
Residents and their families feasted on a delicious three-course meal with locally sourced produce, accompanied by a wide variety of entertainment. Group hospitality services manager Roy Garland said: “We take nutrition very seriously but it was great to have the 2 weeks dedicated to celebrating British Food. “It was such a special event that we plan to be a part of next year, continuing our partnership with Love British Food. Everyone is looking forward to seeing what delicious menus the chefs coming up with next year.”
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Barbara to speak at conferences
Stella Smith, Mary Symes and Pat Childs, residents at various homes owned by The Orders of St John Care Trust, enjoy a train ride with Caroline Smith, activities coordinator at Buckland Court in Amesbury.
Residents enjoy ‘staycation’ CARE home residents from across Wiltshire were treated to sun, sea and sand with a special surprise staycation in Littlehampton, West Sussex. Rest, relaxation and pampering were the orders of the week, with Pimms picnics, daytrips and strolls in the sunshine, all organised by The Orders of St John Care Trust. The summer holiday, which is set to become an annual event for the Trust, was introduced to help residents, some with early stages of dementia, to relax and enjoy time away with their friends in a friendly
and secure environment. Karen Johnson, Wiltshire volunteer and activity manager, said: “As a Trust we understand how important new and nostalgic activities are to the ongoing development of care we provide to our residents, especially those with dementia. “For residents with dementia, engaging with others is sometimes confusing and challenging. “Taking them back to some of their favourite holiday destinations and helping them to engage with others, can help to increase their confidence, wellbeing and quality of life.”
ALZHEIMER’S Society ambassador Barbara Pointon MBE will deliver the keynote speech at a series of seminars being organised by Caring UK’s sister company Script Events. Taking place at Holiday Inn, Barnsley on October 16 and Hilton Hotel, Blackpool the following day, Dementia Care: The Way Forward will feature Barbara’s heart-warming and emotional family carer’s view ‘Caring for Malcolm’. It details her personal experience of looking after her husband, who suffered from the condition, in his final years. The events will be chaired by Caring UK editor Dominic Musgrave. He said: “Our first series of seminars that took place earlier this year proved to be a massive success, and we are confident that these two events will also be the same. “Anyone who has heard Barbara speak could not help but be moved by her honest and frank account of the last few years with her husband, and we are delighted that she will be joining us for our next two events. “The combination of Barbara, the other high-profile speakers and the exhibition make this a must-attend event for all care home managers and owners.” Joining Barbara at the conference will be NCA chief executive Sheila Scott, who will ask ‘What next for Dementia?’ in her seminar, while
Barbara Pointon Damian Utton – partner at Pozzoni LLP Chartered Architects and Designers – will speak about ‘Designing for people with dementia’. A representative from the CQC and Bradford University will also be speaking at the events. For further information or to book your place call the booking hotline on 01226 734475 or email lo@scriptmedia.co.uk
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Managers favour network By Dominic Musgrave REGISTERED managers are in favour of a cohesive network, the creation of a recognised membership community and a more public, sector-wide accreditation system. Those are the findings of the new ‘Everyday Excellence’ report from the National Skills Academy for Social Care, which is part of the sector’s response to the call for greater support for registered managers in the recent White Paper. It is based on the findings of a national survey commissioned by the Academy, and supported by a range of sector bodies including ECCA, the UKHCA, the NCF and the NCA. 1,154 responses were received – just under 10 per cent of the number of managers registered with the inspectorate.
Debbie Sorkin, acting chief executive of the Skills Academy, said: “This report is a welcome and timely addition to the body of knowledge we have in relation to changing social care. “We know, and the White Paper recognises, the leadership role that registered managers have, and their pivotal importance in delivering quality care. “The Skills Academy is committed to supporting registered managers as practice leaders in social care, and we will be working collaboratively with individuals and organisations across the sector to ensure that managers get the support they need.” Key findings included: Registered Managers were genuinely passionate about their jobs and dedicated to their roles, with two-thirds seeing themselves as working in care in five years’ time.
Registered Managers were also committed to personalisation and integration, with three-quarters arguing for greater integration between social care, health and other sectors. But 40 per cent felt isolated and most felt that they were not always appreciated – inside or outside of the sector – for the complexity of their role. Two-thirds (68 per cent) said they would welcome the creation of an official membership body. Registered managers also wanted more opportunities for continuous professional development, with 67 per cent supporting the creation of a national peer network, to provide the opportunity to learn from the experience of others. More than half (56 per cent) were also interested in establishing some form of further accreditation for registered managers.
Caring UK Commerce section brings you all the latest property, business and training news every month.
In this issue: Can outsourcing
be cost effective to owners ? Page 26
Operator to
submit village application Page 27
Do’s and don’ts
of recruiting in the care sector Page 28
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Can outsourcing be cost effective to owners? By Don Ingham
IT is the eternal dilemma which applies across companies large and small. But what about immigration work? Can outsourcing be cost effective and what are the pros and cons? Most employers face common issues in respect of immigration requirements. Firstly there is the issue of compliance and ensuring that all staff have an entitlement to work. Most employers recognise the importance of this issue and the severity of the penalties for getting it wrong. Checking passports will generally be an integral part of the recruitment process and employers generally know what to look for. Employers also tend to be aware of the need to keep copies of passports and visas and to monitor visa expiry dates. While there can be benefits in bringing in external consultants for audits and other checks to ensure that a business is compliant, particularly where there are remote locations, these will tend to be oneoff rather than routine services. Matters become more complicated
where an employer is also a licensed sponsor under Tier 2 of the Points Based System. As a sponsor, the employer has a number of duties beyond simply ensuring that a person has an entitlement to work. In particular, a sponsor must be able to show that there are appropriate systems in place for recording, monitoring and reporting what the UKBA refers to as “migrant activity�. For example recording attendance and reporting to the UKBA if there are significant changes to the circumstances of a person’s employment. UKBA are increasingly visiting businesses unannounced to check that the appropriate systems are in place and most importantly, that there is evidence that they are being implemented. Again there are the options of undertaking periodic checks internally at little or no cost or paying a relatively small amount for what is arguably the increased objectivity and experience of an external consultant. And then there are the people themselves.
Don Ingham Most businesses licensed under Tier 2 will have staff who periodically need to extend their stay in the UK. On the plus side, this might only occur three or four times a year. On the minus side, because it is an infrequent occurrence, HR staff receive very little practice in the process. So again there is the dilemma as to whether to spend money on training for staff and keeping them up to date on changes and developments in the law or to
outsource. The decision is likely to be clearer for those with large numbers of staff who require extensions of stay or pose other immigration issues. It is less straightforward for those with middling to small numbers of staff where the time and money spent on training and keeping up to date produces a very low rate of return due to the small numbers requiring the service. Some businesses have addressed this by recognising that the issuing of a Certificate of Sponsorship to enable an employee to remain in the UK is a direct benefit to the employee, who should bear the cost of both the COS and an external representative to issue the COS. The employee may also be recommended to obtain assistance with their application from the external advisor thus reducing the risk of refusal and consequent disruption for both employer and employee. There is no right or wrong way of resolving the outsourcing dilemma but businesses should at least be aware of the options. Don Ingham is Managing Director of Veristat Immigration Consultants.
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Operator to submit village application By Dominic Musgrave SPECIALIST care village operator, English Villages is preparing to submit a planning application for a care village on land at Warwick Gates already allocated for employment. The new site will comprise of a 36bed nursing care unit and 165 close care and assisted living apartments together with extensive communal facilities including a wellness centre. The developers say it will form an important community facility providing the opportunity for a wide range of ‘day care’ options for older people and include a restaurant, café, library and craft room. There will also be a treatment room to accommodate visiting GPs and a meeting room where local clubs and societies can meet which helps to promote links and integration with the local community. Keith Cockell, chairman and managing director, said: “We have taken into account the desires and aspirations of commissioners of local community services to arrive at a balanced development that helps the community and includes intermediate care beds to reduce bed blocking by allowing an early discharge from hospital; and shared ownership to assist with affordability. “Our village transport will extend outside the care village to include
An artist’s impression of the new village. those living nearby who are disabled or in need of care, giving them more independence. “The Village represents a multi-million pound investment in services and facilities for older people and adults with learning disabilities living in the area. Over 100 jobs will be created for local people with full training and support to complement the high quality facilities.’ He added that the wellness centre with gymnasium, jacuzzi and steam room will form an important part of the development. As well as offering relaxation, it will enable both NHS and private healthcare practitioners to prescribe and advise programs of fitness, long term conditions management, rehabilitation, assessment clinics and physiotherapy. Work on the site should commence next year and be open in 2014.
Taylor National has sold The Old Rectory care home in Saxilby, Lincolnshire to first time buyer Brijesh Patel for an undisclosed sum. The home is registered for 24 and was previously owned by Mr and Mrs Gale. Taylor National director June Willoughby said: “Mr Patel was an eager and keen buyer who took on board the help and guidance that ourselves at Taylor National and Mrs Gale gave him.”
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Do’s and don’ts of recruiting in the care sector By Ben Stepney
Maggie Pearson (The Co-operative Bank), Tim Grant (Cocksedge), John Harding (Cameron Hamilton Homes), Martin Humpleby (The Co-operative Bank), Hansa Odedra home director) and Anne West (care home manager).
New home to create 50 jobs A NEW care home in Suffolk has opened its doors with the creation of 50 jobs. The Co-operative Bank Corporate Banking Centre in Cambridge provided a loan of £2.5m to assist with the construction of the 51-bed Magdalen House in Hadleigh. Local building firm Cameron Homes constructed the facility and, along with Cocksedge Building Contractors, based in Mildenhall, and the care home operators Hansa and Rajendra Odedra, have a shareholding in Magdelen House
Limited. Manager Ann West, who worked at the 29-bed Haven care home in Colchester prior to her new role, said: “The staff are all experienced and are very caring. Not only do we care for the residents and meet their needs but we also take into account how hard it can be for the relatives and friends. “We will be welcoming a few residents every week so they can settle in comfortably, and we’ll employ up to 50 staff as the home fills up.”
Seminar for new entrants DC Care is hosting a new entrants seminar in London in November following on from the success of the one it held in Nottingham in May. In association with Lloyds Bank, Pinders, Chandler and Co and Freeth Cartwright LLP, the event will be at Freeth Cartwright LLP’s London offices at One Heddon Street, just off Regents Street, on November 8. Attendees will be limited to 20 persons, and the seminar will provide a deeper understanding of the long term care sector as a whole and is an opportunity to meet and network
with some key professionals. Director Anita Allen said: “We are aware that some prospective purchasers are new to the long-term care sector, and even the most experienced businessmen and women seeking to acquire their first care facility find there is a great deal to learn. “As probably one of the most highly regulated niche markets in which to trade, the nuances therein are many and a lack of knowledge and good specialist professional advice can be costly.”
Home acquisition complete A £3.2M care home acquisition in Staffordshire which will create a further 20 jobs has been completed. Elder Homes Group has bought its 16th home after taking over Basford Hurst Park Nursing and Residential Home in Cheddleton, Leek, safeguarding the jobs of 74 full and part-time staff. The 85-bedroom home will undergo an extensive refurbishment programme and the creation of two smaller male only and female only self-contained units for elderly people with more challenging mental health issues, after the group received financial support from Yorkshire Bank’s Business Banking Centre in Nottingham. David Messenger, managing director of Elder Homes Group, said “We originally owned the home from
2001 through to 2007, however ,a deal came about for us to buy it back which we did. “We will be redecorating throughout the home and replacing furniture and carpets and creating the two smaller specialist units with their own lounges and dining rooms for male and female residents which copies a template at other homes in the group that has worked well. “Over the last three or four years we have re-developed our homes to cater for people with more demanding dementia so we have developed smaller units within the properties. This means that later in the year we will be looking to recruit up to 20 new nurses and carers.” Elder Homes Group has 800 beds in Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, Manchester and Essex.
AN estimated 1.4 million employees deliver social care to people at home or in residential settings, making this one of the biggest sectors in the UK. It is estimated that more than a million extra workers will be needed to support the UK’s ageing population by 2025. This will lead to a significant increase in the amount of recruitment undertaken by care sector employers. This article considers some of the do’s and don’ts when recruiting employees. Discrimination Potential recruits are covered by the provisions of the Equality Act 2010 in the same way as current employees. Employers must not discriminate against a potential job applicant in the recruitment process on the grounds of any of the protected characteristics (age, sex, race, disability etc.). This includes not just deciding who to offer employment to, but also the format and content of application forms and the job specification. For example, asking for a number of years’ experience could amount to indirect discrimination because of age unless this provision can be objectively justified. Further, a requirement for continuous experience could indirectly discriminate against women who have taken time out from work for reasons relating to maternity or childcare, unless the requirement can be objectively justified. Questions regarding a candidate’s health The Equality Act prohibits employers from asking candidates any questions about their health before a job offer is made. This includes questions about the applicant’s sickness record in their previous job. A question about the applicant’s health can only be asked in certain circumstances, including where such a question is necessary for the purpose of establishing whether the applicant will be able to carry out a function that is intrinsic to the job, or to establish if any reasonable adjustments are needed to allow them to participate in the recruitment process. The offer letter Once you have selected your preferred candidate you will need to send them an offer letter. It is likely that there will be some outstanding information that you need, for example receipt of satisfactory references and CRB check, sight of the candidates’ passport and confirmation of their
Ben Stepney qualifications. The offer letter should clearly state that the job offer is conditional upon receipt of this information. Right to work in the UK Before the employee starts work the employer must carry out certain checks to establish their right to work in the UK. Care sector employers often rely heavily on migrant labour so this is an important step to get right. If the candidate is awaiting immigration approval of their right to work in the UK then any offer of employment should be conditional on such approval being obtained. Employers should ask the same questions of all applicants regarding permission to work in the UK and not just those who may appear to be of non-British descent. Create a document trail As with many aspects of employment, it is important to keep a thorough paper trail. This should demonstrate that the recruitment decision was based on objective evidence of the candidate’s ability to do the job. Being able to rely on and, if necessary, disclose such evidence will help you to deal with any subsequent complaint. The paper trail should include the job description, notes of the interview and notes of the interview panel’s decision following the interview. Codes of practice The Equality and Human Rights Commission has produced the Employment Statutory Code of Practice to help employers comply with the law. Chapter 16 specifically deals with recruitment and is well worth a read to assess how compliant your organisation’s procedures are. Ben Stepney is a solicitor in the Employment Team at law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore.
CARINGNEWS
Laundry equipment provider celebrates first year of trading TERSUS Equip celebrated its first 12 months of trading with a celebration of horse racing, networking and an evening party for 130 of its staff, customers and suppliers at Lingfield Park Racecourse in Surrey. Guests attending included the senior staff of the majority of the UK’s premium care home operators. Manager director Jeremy Hartigan launched the company having previously been the founder and MD of JHC, which was purchased by Girbau in 2006, and MD of Advance Laundry Equipment, which was recently purchased by JLA, via a brief stint as sales director of The Stanland Group. He said: “When I launched Tersus in
August 2011 my partners and I could not have imagined that in one year we could have come so far. “There is a definite market for a single source supplier of equipment, chemicals, handling equipment and after sales service. Joining forces with my two partners (Mark Kendall and Jeremy Walding of Inox equip Ltd) and creating a company that can combine the design and deliver both leading edge catering and laundry solutions has really created a niche market and has enabled us to cover every aspect of care home laundry design and operation.”
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Council trials new GPS technology Resident Peter Mark and Bupa Care Homes’ community and partnerships manager Siobhan Drane.
Group gets its boots on STAFF and residents at more than 300 Bupa care homes across the UK are appealing to the local community to put their best foot forward and take part in a new initiative aimed at encouraging people to incorporate more walking into their daily lives. A new Bupa report, ‘Get Walking, Keep Walking’, has revealed a declining trend for walking journeys and that walking briskly for just an extra 15 minutes a day can have significant health benefits, even adding up to three years to life expectancy. Bupa has partnered with Alzheimer’s Society’s Memory Walk, encouraging its care homes to organise or take part in the charity’s
flagship event to raise awareness and vital funds for dementia. Siobhan Drane, Bupa Care Homes’ community and partnerships manager, said: “We want to help people be more active and spread the message that walking more often and further each day really can improve your overall health. And by teaming up with Alzheimer’s Society’s Memory Walk, everyone can also help raise awareness and money for a very worthy cause. “From incorporating more movement into everyday life through to organising push-a-thons for those who are unable to walk, everyone can get involved and enjoy being more active.”
A PIONEERING scheme is being trialled in Edinburgh to test how satellite technology can be used to prevent people with dementia becoming lost or getting into difficulties. The city council has partnered with Bield to develop a system that allows people with dementia and other cognitive disorders the freedom to walk about safely through the use of Global Positioning Satellite locating devices. Seven people are piloting the GPS Safe Walking project, which is being reviewed by researchers at Edinburgh University to determine how the service could be further developed in the capital and elsewhere in Scotland. The users are wearing a device on their wrist like a watch or carried in pockets, which trigger an alarm to a call handling centre if they go out of a pre-determined geographic area called a safe zone. The City of Edinburgh Council has provided the Vega devices while Bield is managing the monitoring service through Bield Response 24, the first service in the UK to fully integrate
GPS with the Jontek Answerlink 3G system. Heather Laing, manager, assessment and supported housing services at the city council, said: “The partnership with Bield was an easy decision due to their vast experience of call monitoring and their commitment and passion for exploring new technology. “The majority of people living with dementia experience wandering to a certain degree, often people will become disoriented, even in familiar places, and don’t remember where they are or what they were doing. “It was clear that there needed to be a way to keep our most vulnerable people safer, to enhance their independence and that there needed to be a national alert centre devoted to monitoring the devices. Edinburgh University hopes to publish a study evaluating the experiences from the Safe Walking pilot shortly. Plans are also being discussed to fully involve the police in the project by making the missing persons unit part of the reporting process. Hallmark Care Homes has appointed Suzanne Mumford to the new role dementia care specialist. Suzanne (pictured left), who has more than 30 years’ experience in the sector, will embed the company’s dementia strategy in practice and help develop training and education across the care group. Suzanne has previously worked as the head of training and dementia care for Hallmark, and she will be working particularly closely with Admiral Court, the company’s first home to specialise solely in dementia care.
Charity boosted by £20,000 grant award SOUTH Yorkshire dementia charity Lost Chord has been awarded grant aid worth £20,000. The organisation that provides interactive musical experiences for people living with dementia in care homes and day centres across the region and nationally has been given £10,000 Supporting Change funding from the Big Lottery. And a further £10,000 has been provided by Awards for All, the Lottery grants scheme funding small, local communitybased projects in the UK. Lost Chord chief executive Helena Muller said the money will help the charity to investigate new ways of funding for the future. She added: “This extremely important grant funding will allow us to have an external assessment of the charity to help develop improved business models and streamline procedures. It will help pay for membership of the National Dementia Action Alliance, which helps to support people with dementia and campaign for improved care in the field of
dementia.” The funding will also make possible a feasibility study into setting up a charity shop to produce a consistent funding stream and encourage further community support. “All this activity will lead to greater efficiency and more opportunities for partnership working in the future,” said Helena. “Thanks to the Big Lottery we are now able to work on new areas of funding that should enable Lost Chord to continue its valuable work and hopefully lead to greater sustainability in the future. “It’s always good to receive funding that directly benefits people with dementia but an independent evaluation of Lost Chord is one of the most valuable tools available when completing grant applications so we are delighted to be given this opportunity through this extremely generous funding.” The money from Awards for All will go directly to fund monthly Lost Chord sessions at four Alzheimer’s Society dementia cafes in the Doncaster and Rotherham area.
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Group sees benefits of 3D picture frames Theresa Swan holds the ribbon as Mick Entwistle of the Springhill maintenance team, who led the creation of the new garden, cuts the ribbon with chairman Ken Nolan.
New garden unveiled AN Accrington care home has unveiled a new sensory garden designed specifically for people with dementia. The garden has been created in conjunction with Dr Garuth Chalfont, an internationally recognised expert in the art and science of ‘healing gardens.’ The new outdoor space at Springhill Care Home has been designed to be a safe, secluded area with a woodland theme featuring trees, gentle slopes and safe walkways with colourful foliage intended to facilitate relaxation and calm. Springhill has introduced the garden as part of a recently opened specialist care centre, a multi-millionpound development intended to pro-
vide excellent standards of care for people with a range of illnesses associated with dementia. Theresa Swan, general manager of the home, said: “The specialist care centre has allowed us to create a care facility which is designed to be a home for life. “We have taken an integrated approach, with both outdoor and indoor spaces being given equal importance, allowing us to create a lovely space for people to enjoy life in their later years. Research has demonstrated that natural therapies such as a sensory garden can play a major part in enabling people with dementia to maintain cognitive function, and can assist with physical and emotional well being.”
STAFF at CLS care homes across the North West have been seeing firsthand the benefits of introducing an inspired dementia-coping initiative into their specialist households. Home managers and activities coordinators have created personalised 3D picture frames to be positioned at residents’ ‘front doors’ as a stimulating way of orientating themselves, as well as serving as an engaging memory prompt and conversation starter. New Milton House, in Alsager, Cheshire, was the first to use the ‘memory frame,’ which can include anything from photographs and letters, to favourite colours, flowers and places. Residents were encouraged to get involved in the whole process, from the creating and crafting of the frame, to helping to hang them outside their rooms. Christine Cull, activities coordinator at the care home, said the idea captures a snapshot of a resident’s life, and gives an insight into their personality. She added: “There are many benefits to the memory frame, residents feel at ease and comforted by personal mementoes and photographs, and staff and visitors can use the frame to see a resident’s interests and start a conversation. “Since hanging the frames, we have
Resident Nora Jackson with her frame. noticed that residents have found it easier to talk to people they are less familiar with, as well as engaging in conversation and storytelling with other residents and family members – it’s been wonderful to see.” Resident Nora Jackson, 93, originally from Sandbach, helped to create her memory frame with her daughter, Anne, who volunteers at the home. She said: “This is a great way for someone coming into the home to learn a little about my mum. “I learned things about her from before I was born, and it’s nice for me to see those memories both from before and those that relate to me.”
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Army officer makes it his duty to care A FORMER military welfare officer with a passion for caring has found a new role with an Ipswich based company where he will be putting his many years’ experience to good use. Graham Drury has joined Home Instead Senior Care on maternity cover as a recruitment and retention coordinator. During his army career, Graham spent six years in Afghanistan where he was awarded the Joint Helicopter Force Commanders Commendation. He was later awarded the Meritorious Service Certificate after he set up an entertainment tent for personnel. As a Welfare Officer for his regiment, Graham looked after 600 personnel and their families and provided a support network for both soldiers and their families. “I think I really caught the bug for caring while I was working in the military,” he said. “This is what led me to look into a career in caring and I strongly believe that I possess highly transferrable skills for the role of recruitment and retention coordinator. “I’m really keen to get stuck into the role and to make sure that I support the caregiver team 100 per cent. It is key that caregivers feel that they can talk to me about anything.”
Provider to create 25 new jobs after purchasing firm A KENT and Sussex domiciliary care provider has purchased an established business in Herne Bay and is looking to create at least 25 new jobs with the opening of another new office in Thanet. Headquartered in Bexhill-on-Sea, Care at Home Services provides domiciliary care to people across East Sussex and Kent, currently employing 450 members of staff including 410 trained carers. It also has offices in Crowborough, Eastbourne, Hastings and Royal Tunbridge Wells, which serves Tonbridge and Sevenoaks too, and is opening a new office this month in Broadstairs, Kent. A family business, the company’s present directors Dan and Deborah McDowell took over the company from Deborah’s father who founded the business in 1993, and have continued to expand its coverage and range of services. Care at Home Services purchased High Meadow Home Care at the end of last year, which gives the company a sixth office and a springboard to expand its coverage into neighbouring East Kent. As a result of this expansion the company expects to boost its £6m turnover by around £1.5m, as well as eventually recruiting at least 75 new care staff across Mid and East Kent.
Care at Home Services representatives Carol Crerie (manager), Michaela Lee (administrator), Dan McDowell (director) and Nicola Leroy (operations director) with Andrew Clark (Lloyds TSB Commercial). In order to finance the purchase of High Meadow Home Care and open up the new Broadstairs office, Care at Home Services secured a £400,000 Government-backed EFG loan from banking partner Lloyds TSB Commercial, having received guidance and support from the bank through its previous developments. Dan said: “This expansion marks a new chapter in our growth across the area, and will allow us to provide much more complete care coverage
to our service users across both our existing and new areas. “The purchase of High Meadow Home Care presented a great opportunity for us to move into a new, but importantly for us, adjacent geographical area, and we will now be looking to integrate the new company to ensure that we can efficiently offer our new clients the same level of care and support as our existing ones, as well as winning new business in Kent.”
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CARINGNEWS
Elder Homes unveils book initiative
Residents and staff at Windsor Court Care Home in Goole with their new vehicle.
Group purchases minibus fleet HC-ONE has unveiled the launch of a new fleet of 200 mobility minibuses to meet the need of its residents as part of a £6.4m investment. Through a partnership with Renault and Bradford based motoring group JCT600 Contracts, HC-One will deliver 200 new Renault Master LM35 minibuses to its care homes across the country. Modifications to the nine-seater minibuses, which cost approximately £30,000 each, include a new floor for seat belt fixings, a tail lift, side step,
blue internal lights for night travel, a skylight hatch and heater, with Renault throwing-in a number of extras including free rear parking sensors. HC-One received 30 minibuses in August with a further 40 following each month until the order of 200 is fulfilled early next year. “The arrival of the HC-One minibus fleet is a milestone for the company,” said managing director Pam Finnis. “HC-One’s aim is to provide the kindest care in the country, and enabling residents to enjoy life in the commu-
nity around the home is fundamental to achieving this aim. “It was a lengthy selection process in choosing the minibuses, and we looked at a number of different manufacturers and models. We also viewed a prototype minibus in early July with residents, a home manager and activities co-ordinators to ensure it met their expectations. “As we roll out the minibuses to HCOne homes across the UK, residents will enjoy more exciting outings and lead a fuller life.”
NATIONAL operator Elder Homes Group has introduced a special and unique initiative across its care homes. All residents are now issued their own, personalised, red bound ‘My Life Book’ which features a series of questions about their life, tastes, likes and dislikes. This has been introduced in order to provide mental stimulation, conversation, and personal enjoyment for all residents. Each book will be made especially for the resident and will feature a range of questions, aimed at initiating conversations with everyone who spends time with that resident as well as providing vital personal information about the resident. A spokesman for the group said: “The book will be in their bedroom and each time anyone comes into the room, whether it be for a visit or a member of staff to clean, the book is there to aid conversation and interaction on an everyday basis. “The book enables the homes to provide and visualise a more personal understanding approach to each and every service user. Family members are encouraged to assist in painting the life story of their loved ones, the book can also be taken as a memento of their loved one or a copy can be made at any time.”
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CARINGNEWS
Line-up revealed for Naidex Care NAIDEX Care will open its doors for the first time on October 17 and, with its line-up of speakers, is the event to attend for anyone working in the care industry. Taking place alongside Naidex South, Naidex Care (ExCeL London, October 17-18) will provide a wealth of free opportunities to visitors via its CPD accredited Naidex Care Conference. The organisers have committed themselves to bringing you the most influential speakers who will cover a wide range of the most relevant topics to benefit care home owners, managers and employees alike. Shaun Gallagher, interim director general for social care, local government and care partnerships Department of Health, is confirmed as keynote speaker at 11am on the 18th. David will be discussing the Social Care White Paper and what it means for the future of adult care and care homes which, with the care home sector currently facing an increasing number of challenges, is sure to raise a number of interesting questions from visitors. Naidex Care seminars will run throughout the two-day event and, in addition to Shaun Gallagher, visitors can expect to hear from other prominent speakers.
Professor Alistair Burns, national clinical director for dementia care at the Department of Health, will be chairing a panel debate on the future of dementia care, while Des Kelly, executive director of National Care Forum, will focus on developing greater personalisation of care, a prominent issue throughout the sector. Sarah Pickup, president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, will be dealing with what the care sector must do to cope with the ageing demographic of the nation and Dr Graham Stokes, director of dementia care at Bupa Care Services, will give his views on aspiring to an outcomes-based approach to dementia care. Other speakers include Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society and Janet Bell, owner of Spring Mount Care Home in Yorkshire. The full programme can be found at www.naidexcare.co.uk/ECaring If you are a care home owner, manager or care provider, Naidex Care is an unmissable opportunity for you to get expert answers to the questions you are desperate to ask. So visit www.naidexcare.co.uk to register for your free ticket to both Naidex Care and Naidex South, quoting priority code EPR5.
Resident Kathleen Nightingale and Owen Clarke from Steel and Strings.
Drums add to atmosphere THE sounds of a Caribbean steel drum helped to create a carnival atmosphere at an Ullenhall care home. Mockley Manor hosted its own carnival, with residents and staff dressing up in flower garlands and feathers while enjoying Caribbean-inspired food and drinks. And to add to the party, a steel drum player performed a selection of tropical-sounding music at the Alpha Care Homes facility. Manager Rachael Crocker said: “The
home was decorated in bright carnival colours and we were all excited about getting dressed up for the occasion. “The music really helped to make the day, as all the residents were able to join in and enjoy the rhythm of the drum no matter what their mobility is like. We’ve had other theme days here before but we’ve never done anything like this. We created an exotic fruit punch for our residents to enjoy alongside coconut cake and other Caribbean delicacies.”
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CARINGNEWS
Fair raises funds for hospice RESIDENTS from two care homes joined forces to raise money for a hospice in Wrexham. The cash for Nightingale House was presented to local AM Lesley Griffiths, who opened the annual Autumn fair at the Gwern Alyn and Hillbury homes. The £250 was raised by raffling prizes donated by residents, relatives and staff, including a hamper of sweets donated by resident Tom Wynn, 88. Gwern Alyn manager Mildred Heyward said: “Residents, their families and our own staff have been very generous in donating items such as cakes, wine, sweets and bric-a-brac which we are able to sell and of course we are holding a big raffle.” Nightingale House provides specialist palliative care services to patients and their families. Their free services include a 16bed inpatient ward, a 15-patient day-care unit, an outpatient clinic, a specialist lymphodema unit, occupational therapy, complementary therapies, physiotherapy including a hydrotherapy pool and an ambulance service.
The Government’s proposed reforms on adult social care By Damian Utton THE Government has recently published their long awaited plans for the reform of adult social care. This comprised a White Paper ‘Caring for our future: reforming care and support,’ a separate progress report on the response to the Dilnot Commission and a draft Care and Support bill. The proposals contained within the White Paper are to: Focus on people’s well being and support them to stay independent for as long as possible. Introduce greater national consistency in access to care and support. Provide better information to help people make choices about their care. Give people more control over their care. Improve support for carers. Improve the quality of care and support. Improve integration of different services. The Care and Support bill provides the enabling legislation for these proposed reforms. Details of the proposed reforms can be found at the Department of Health website and many leading organisations have published their responses on their
own websites. Response across the care sector to the White Paper has been generally positive to the Government’s acceptance that reform is necessary and the proposals have the potential to improve the quality of care and create a fairer system. The Dilnot Commission’s report on funding for adult social care was published in May 2011 and recommended: An increase from £23,250 to £100,000 in the threshold above which people should pay for their care. Lifetime contribution to an individuals care costs should be capped at £35,000. National eligibility criteria and portable assessments are introduced for consistency. Younger adults should be eligible for free state support, not means tested. The Government in their progress report on the Dilnot Commission initially stated that it will “support the principles of the approach recommended by the Commission.” but there was no commitment to a new funding model. During August 2012 the media reported that the Government has reconsidered and will formally
Damian Utton announce in the Autumn that the recommendations of the Dilnot report are to proceed. However, it could be 2017 before the cap and means-tested threshold are fully implemented. The care sector has generally welcomed the Government’s acceptance that reform is needed to the current funding system. As always the devil is in the details and there is still a question of what will happen to the funding system during the next five years whilst the legislation to implement the Dilnot recommendations makes its way through the parliamentary process. Comments on the draft care and support bill can still be made online at the Department of Health website. Damian Utton is a partner at Pozzoni LLP.
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CARINGNEWS
CQC success for Miranda House staff STAFF at Miranda House Care Home in Royal Wootton Bassett celebrated receiving top marks in its latest CQC inspection. The home has achieved the highest possible levels of care delivery having met the necessary standards in the five required areas: how well the service is treating people with respect, quality of care provision, safeguarding and safety, staffing and management of the service. As part of the process, inspectors spoke to residents, relatives and members of staff. The home demonstrated full compliance in all areas, with special mention made of the dementia training and activities coordination within the home. Manager Mike Farmer said residents are heavily involved in all aspects of the home, including the planning of activities. He added: “We are delighted that the hard work done each and every day by our team has been recognised through this excellent report. I have only been in post for a number of months and it is clear that this is a tightly knit staff unit. “First and foremost Miranda House is our residents’ home. It is a pleasure to provide a service for so many wonderful people, but it is always nice to hear that you’re getting things right.”
Margaret poses with residents and staff in her wedding dress.
Wedding surprise for residents A LINCOLNSHIRE care team leader delighted residents at the home where she works when she called in dressed in her wedding dress. Margaret Coe, who has worked at Tanglewood in Horncastle for the past 10 years, shared so much of the build-up to her big day with the residents that she did not want them to miss out on the special occasion. Margaret – now Mrs Margaret Harrison – called in at the home a few days after her marriage to Ken at Horncastle Register Office. She changed into her wedding dress in one of the residents’ self-contained
bungalows. before touring the home, calling on residents and posing for photographs in their rooms and in the communal lounges and dining rooms. An ‘official’ wedding photo was snapped in the grounds when Margaret took centre stage with residents and other members of staff. Margaret said she would have called in on the wedding day, but the time scale did not give her the opportunity. She added: “I had talked to the residents about my wedding so much I felt they would feel they had missed out if they did not see me in my dress.
“It was lovely just to see the residents’ eyes light up when they saw it. So many of our residents made their own wedding dresses and they really appreciated all the intricate work involved and the beading and detail. “I think it took a lot of our residents back to memories of their own wedding days. One resident in particular was quite emotional about seeing the dress and helped hold the train as I went around the rooms,” said Margaret. Margaret was given away by her mother Christine and her sister Ruth was a witness at the wedding.
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CARINGPRODUCT NEWS
Gompels to Care Show meets Benefits of showcase sector’s demands the SOLO macerator Proform GOMPELS Healthcare Ltd, specialist supplier of low cost everyday healthcare products to care homes, will display their own brand Proform at the Birmingham Care Show. Proform products include essentials such as adult bibs, gloves, aprons, wipes and incontinence pads. The Birmingham Care Show 2012, where samples will be available, will provide a great opportunity for buyers to evaluate the quality of the brand and discuss the needs of their residents. The company offers a wide range of healthcare, medical, disposable, cleaning and janitorial supplies and aims to supply the highest quality products possible at the lowest possible prices, with fast delivery and a particular focus on excellent levels of customer service. Own brand Proform now accounts for over half of the company’s total sales and is used by hundreds of care homes throughout the UK. Visit stand E34 to pick up the latest Gompels bi-monthly catalogue and collect your free box of Proform tissues.
New features announced
ORGANISERS of The Cleaning Show have announced a number of new features at the next exhibition, which will take place at the NEC in Birmingham from March 19-21. With a full programme of attractions, the largest number of exhibitors yet, as well as a co-location with the popular IMHX 2013 event, The Cleaning Show 2013 is set to be the biggest and best ever. It is organised every two years on behalf of the cleaning industry by BCCE Ltd, a company jointly owned by the British Cleaning Council and Quartz Business Media. Over 200 exhibitors, specialising in a variety of different sectors, will be present at the show, with more than 50 exhibiting for the first time.
Quality range available
BROSCH Direct, established in 1989, is one of the UK’s leading supplier of medical consumables to over 22,000 medical professions. We have the products to support care home workers, doctors, dentists, vets and many more health related professions. We also supply thousands of products with one of the largest ranges of disposable medical gloves on the market. We also stock a quality range of paper, hand care and infection control products as well as first aid and janitorial consumables. Free samples available on most products and price beater guarantee.
CARE Show Birmingham will not only exceed the needs of key stakeholders at residential care homes but also meet the demands of everyone across the care industry. Event director Chris Edwards said: “With a comprehensive exhibitor profile displaying all relevant products and services for care home professionals, plus a groundbreaking education programme addressing all the major issues of the day – more than 25 hours of free sessions will be presented by leading industry names – this year’s event will appeal to the entire spectrum of care professionals. “We are, for example, dedicating major focus areas to dementia and practical care, as well as providing marketing tips and advice for promoting your business to self-funders. “As a result, this year’s event, which has moved back to its traditional November time slot, is 23 per cent larger than last year’s show.” Working closely with experts from
the University of Stirling, the specially-constructed Dementia Design Academy will demonstrate best-practice building design and construction for residents with dementia. This major showfloor feature will be complemented by an unrivalled seminar programme. Legislation and policy will be major themes this year, with experts providing up-to-date advice and major presentations by, for example, the CQC and the Department of Health covering the new Adult Social Care White Paper. Chris added: “Combined with unique insights into how care homes can use social media and PR to their advantage, this year’s event will be a ‘must-attend’ for everyone in the care industry by providing all the tools and techniques they need to be more effective and efficient.” The Care Show take place at the Birmingham NEC on November 13 and 14.
Xtrainer provides fitness solution IF you have ever considered introducing fitness equipment into your care home, but decided against it because of limited space or budgets, a solution can be found by installing the XT20 Xtrainer from SportsArt Fitness UK. This single, universal piece of fitness equipment offers everything you need by combining independent lower and upper body cardio/ strength action to provide a total body workout better than any other recumbent cycle, treadmill and dual action elliptical trainer. It does not necessarily have to involve major investment as you can rent the XT20 from SportsArt for only £25 per week (over three years) and have the benefit of immediate access to new state-of-the-art fitness equip-
Third DVD launched ment. SportsArt will install and train your staff, maintain and service the equipment as required and, after three years replace it with a new XT20. It’s a totally practical and cost effective fitness solution.
DVDs engage residents MOVE it or Lose it! exercise DVDs are a perfect solution to engage older people in regular activity sessions in the care home environment, and at £10 are incredibly cost effective too. The easy to follow routines to music can be done from a chair and provide clear instructions and gentle encouragement so everyone can join in and keep active. It is also an ideal opportunity to
bring people together to have some fun and gain real benefits from the enjoyable seated exercises. Endorsed as an excellent resource by The Centre for Healthy Ageing Research, professor Janet Lord said: “The DVDs are ideal for older adults with exercises that are easy to do and help to improve and maintain musculoskeletal function and all round flexibility.”
Specialist carpets on display DANFLOOR will again be exhibiting its range of specialist healthcare carpets at the Birmingham Care Show. The Equinox and New Generation collection are made with the healthcare market in mind. Features including impervious layers, anti-microbial coatings and stain resistant yarns make these ranges ideal for the care sector. You will be able to view our products at the Show’s Dementia Design
THE SOLO® macerator from Haigh, disposes of commode pots, bedpans, urine bottles and other pulp items into the standard drainage system using only cold water and a small amount of electricity. The key benefits of using the single use system with bedpan macerators: Reduced infection. A new disposable bedpan or bottle each time; reduced crossinfection; bacteria isn’t presented to resident via bedpan; infection cycle is broken; no sterilisation required; human waste simply disposed. Cost and environmental savings. Operates using cold water and only a small amount of electricity. Time saving. No scrubbing, rewashing or unloading required; simple and fast operation; more time for resident care, less installation time required; less disruption during downtime, maintenance and servicing.
Academy. The largest feature ever built at the exhibition will encompass a dementia care home, built on-site, to help visitors learn about best practice. Our healthcare collection also now has BRE certification. Our impressive ratings, ranging from A+ to B, reflect our environmental commitment and provides independent verification of the work we have undertaken to enhance our environmental credentials.
HEALTH and social care training provider BVS has released its third new product of the year – Care Home Health and Safety. Sales and operations manager Minjie Xiong said the DVD is an essential item to have for care homes that aim to meet the legal framework. She added: “This new DVD excels in delivering various health and safety topics while incorporating new elements such as the COSHH International Hazards Symbol System that replaced the European Hazards Symbols, the issue of stress and the national colour coding system.” BVS is offering an upgrade discount to those homes who already have the original version of this DVD.
Deadline is extended BADGEMASTER is marking its 20th anniversary by offering a 20 per cent discount off list prices for all orders placed by the extended date of October 31. Many changes have happened since Badgemaster started trading from a portable cabin in July 1992. Most notably, founders John and Vicky Bancroft have steadily grown their workforce to 88 fulltime staff at the company’s stateof-the-art 12,500 sq. ft. facility in Newstead, Nottinghamshire. To receive the 20 per cent anniversary discount off list prices for name badges, customers need to quote 20YEARS on their order.
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Half of companies unprepared for an evacuation – claim HALF of companies are under prepared for evacuations in the workplace, and wheelchair users and the mobility-impaired are most at risk from being unable to make a safe escape, according to research by Evac+Chair International. The survey of 100 human resources directors and managers, who are responsible for the safety of their employees, reported that 35 per cent said that wheelchair users or mobility-impaired employees within the company did not have a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP), which is required in accordance with fire safety legislation. Around half of companies possess the necessary equipment to assist disabled and mobility-impaired employees in an evacuation, and fewer than 15 per cent of the companies with equipment use it during emergency evacuation drills, indicating a stark lack of preparation for evacuation procedures in the workplace. Evac+Chair International has over 25 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of emergency evacuation chairs for the mobility impaired. Enquiries: Visit www.evac-chair.co.uk
Equipment to optimise bathroom dignity TOTAL Hygiene offers a raft of equipment designed to optimise bathroom dignity and independence for people who need the help of a carer. Its solutions include the Clos-o-Mat, which combines douching and drying in a conventional-looking WC that is guaranteed to accommodate someone up to 30 stone in weight, the Aerolet toilet lifter, which overcomes handling problems by automatically raising and lowering the user over the toilet, the ApresShower body drier which eliminates the need to rub dry with towels, plus hoists, height adjustable changing benches and height adjustable basins – all the equipment to create a bespoke hygienic room. With a 50-year history of developing solutions to optimise dignity and independence in personal hygiene, Total Hygiene supplies, installs, commissions and services its equipment in-house – a unique offering in the market. Enquiries: Visit www.clos-o-mat.com or telephone 0161 969 1199.
Programme improves residents’ lives
Signs for people with dementia ORIENTATION signs are ideal for people with dementia. Made with durable plastic, they are suitable for all care settings. Size of unit: Height 267mm, width 432mm, depth 25mm. Cost: £120 – no VAT. Enquiries: To order call 01400 272959 or email caythorpecare@btconnect.com
CFS Carpets offer a wide selection of healthcare carpets AS well as the extensive range of contract carpets and carpet tiles, CFS Carpets has a wide range of impervious backed broadloom carpets that are heavy contract – ideal for the healthcare industry. Featuring plain and patterned designs and a wide colour bank, these ranges are competitively priced and have excellent cleaning properties and a 10-year guarantee. Hanbury Care Design, featured in the picture, has a modern colour bank and a matching plain range available too. Sample folders of all the healthcare ranges are available in carpet and flooring along with a selection of other healthcare flooring solutions. CFS Carpets are part of Carpet and Flooring, one of the UK ’s largest flooring distributors. Large stocks of all ranges are held, along with a selection of other healthcare flooring solutions. Deliveries can be made within 24 hours to mainland UK. Enquiries: Call 01527 511860 for more information or for samples log onto www.cfscarpets.co.uk
Simple solutions SINCE 1982, Colne (Lancs) based, Richards Residential Supplies have concentrated upon supplying simple solutions to common nursing home problems. The new WACMAT® adheres strongly to this tradition. With its ultra absorbent cotton pile and 100 per cent waterproof backing, the remarkable WACMAT® is an ideal accessory where spills may occur. Used as a commode mat, in bedrooms or bathrooms, the WACMAT® ensures full carpet protection. Then, after use, simply machine wash and tumble dry! It’s that simple... The WACMAT® will then be clean and odour-free, ready to perform time and time again. Alternatively the flat-laying WACMAT® can be used as an entrance mat, saving you hundreds of pounds in rental costs alone. Enquiries: Telephone 0800 074 3749.
THE Older People’s Programme improves levels of physical activity, nutritional wellbeing, self-esteem and sense of community belonging. It delivered activities to 1,326 older people in residential homes and other care settings in the North West. Over 7,800 care staff received training, increasing understanding of issues including dignity and nutrition. Age UK West Cumbria has made resources available including training materials for care professionals, reference directories, ‘How-to’ Guides and Domiciliary Care guides. The Enriched Opportunities ‘How To’ Guide leads
an organisation through setting up, running and sustaining a successful project to improve the nutritional, physical and mental wellbeing of older people in residential care. And the Dignity Training Pack encourages staff to consider dignity in care and how to ensure they contribute to the wellbeing of those they support. ‘Scenario cards’, a DVD and detailed training instructions aid delivery. Enquiries: For access to resources, free downloads and useful information, visit: http://www.ageuk.org.uk/westcumbria/Target -Wellbeing/Resources/
RDP Innovations helps you get your residents online RDP Innovations is a Suffolk-based company that specialises in the design and manufacture of mobile computer trolleys for use in care homes – specifically to provide residents with broader and more flexible access to a computer. When mounted with a computer, the RDP trolley is typically used to enable residents to access Skype, email, internet, TV, etc, in the privacy of their own rooms. Several formats are now available for various all-in-one PCs, including models from Dell, Acer and Lenovo. Trolleys are height-adjustable, highly manoeuvrable and built-to-last. For a detailed specification and a full product photo gallery, visit www.rdpinnovations.com Alternatively, if you would simply like to find out more about how you can differentiate yourself from your competitors and, at the same time, enhance the experience of your residents, get in contact and we will be pleased to help. Enquiries: RDP Innovations Ltd, Basepoint Business Centre, The Havens, Ipswich IP3 9BF. Telephone 01473 722 922 or email sales@rdpinnovations.com
Eddie’s knowledge and expertise second to none EMANUEL A Dribble, better known in the business transfer market as Eddie Dribble, has been in the care home transfer agency business for around 40 years. His extensive knowledge and expertise is second to none in negotiating a satisfactory conclusion for many long standing clients In 1972 he founded and subsequently developed the care home division, of the then national transfer agents Luxton and Lowe Limited. Since that time he has personally travelled the length and breadth of the British Isles inspecting and evaluating every type of care home. No matter what size and what cost he has negotiated sales to a range of buyers, which include large companies and single private individuals. He has established a reputation throughout the
industry which provides a truly personal service, always remaining fully confidential. Luxton and Lowe Limited were taken over in 1991 by a large London property agent. At this time to keep the personal service and confidentiality, which was also his strict code of practice, Eddie decided he needed to form his own private transfer agency to continue to provide a high quality individualistic service. Since this time he has continued to serve the industry with his own brand of personal and confidential negotiations and keep his commission rates at a competitive level. To this day care homes of every size and description and in every location are continuously required for a list of carefully vetted applicants. Enquiries: Telephone 020 8942 0852.
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C-TEC launches new stainless steel Quantec devices C-TEC has added an extensive range of state-ofthe-art stainless steel devices to its innovative Quantec addressable call system range. Ideal for creating a stylish impression in prestigious reception areas or at sites where vandalism has been reported, the devices are high-quality, durable and very competitively priced. Their launch means that virtually every existing Quantec call point and corridor display now has a counterpart crafted from brushed stainless steel. C-TEC's sales director Charlotte Manley said: “Although a limited number of stainless steel devices have been available for some time, we recently took the decision to totally re-engineer our offerings to improve their quality and reduce their price." The company recently launched a revolutionary and highly cost-effective range of dementia care products, also for use with its Quantec addressable call system.
Beaucare launch Aquabathe range
Enquiries: For more information, contact the company's sales desk on 01942 322744 or visit www.c-tec.co.uk.
Welcome your residents with Say It Personally – gifts with a difference YORKSHIRE-based company Say It Personally specialises in unique, quality gifts with a difference, delivered to your door to make any occasion extra special. Our range includes a luxury care home welcome gift to help new residents feel at home. This contains a photograph frame to hold precious memories, fragrance drawer sachet, pen and handy notebook. Other useful items include a cord for spectacles, towel and face cloth. Also for the ladies we have created an elegantly wrapped “Thinking of you” bouquet (as shown in photograph) replicating a floral arrangement. This beautifully hand-tied bouquet is crammed with practical goodies to aid relaxation including toiletries, snuggle socks, eye mask, towel and face cloth along with lots of other useful items. Not forgetting the men, we have created a similar gift which comes beautifully presented in a gift box.
Enquiries: Telephone 01482 638355, email hello@sayitpersonally.co.uk or visit www.sayitpersonally.co.uk
The future for care home entertainment NURSING and care home residents no longer have to struggle to understand and operate their televisions as Airwave and partners now provide specialised solutions. For example, LG have released a tailored large button remote control enabling those with reduced manual dexterity, the elderly and the disabled to change channel without difficulty. Airwave Europe specialises in health and care specific TV solutions and partners with leading manufacturers Philips, LG, Samsung, Sharp and Jaotech Barco. Airwave’s products include dedicated Healthcare Freeview LCD/LED televisions, large button and wipe down remote controls, plus bespoke care home information channels, allowing staff to broadcast individual home or group services quickly and easily to all rooms and lounge areas. Innovative designs also include TV on arms, ceiling poles and trolleys for comfortable viewing from all bed types.
Enquiries: Call 0845 555 12 12 or visit www.airwave.tv and www.hospitaltv.co.uk
Beaucare® Medical Ltd’s Aquabathe range of bathing equipment is designed for the rigorous demands of care home environments. Built to the highest standards, the Aquabathe range offers solutions to suit customers’ special requirements. The Hi-Lo and Aquabathe II come in five different sizes depending on your requirements, with various options such as manual or power
traverse seat, left and right hand setup, TMV3 shower assembly, and whirlpool or air spa capabilities. We can install and service nationally, using our certified engineers. So, if your bathrooms need revamping, why not let us quote? Enquiries: Call 01423 878899, email service@beaucare.com or visit www.beaucare.com
Complete laundry care GIRBAU UK’s commercial laundry equipment for care and nursing homes is available as part of a unique Complete Laundry Care service designed to make running an on-premise laundry simple, hassle-free and affordable. Complete Laundry Care offers the latest Girbau energy efficient washers, dryers and ironers with a fixed monthly rental that includes all service and maintenance. No upfront capital payment is required and you keep the capital cost of new equipment off your balance sheet. There are no call out charges or repair bills to pay, so you keep budgets tightly under control. The new package is backed by Girbau UK’s inhouse, nationwide same day/next day service and maintenance operation. Under the terms of a unique Pay No Rental service guarantee, the company will pay a whole month’s rental if it is ever unable to attend a service call in the promised time. Enquiries: Call 01462 427780 or visit www.completelaundrycare.co.uk
Grahame Gardner enhance Urbane scrubwear range GRAHAME Gardner has enhanced its popular Urbane scrubwear range with the addition of 9534, a new longer length tunic. This flattering style of tunic boasts the same high quality design features as the rest of the Urbane range, and is available in a wide selection of bold colourways. The Urbane Scrub range has become a firm favourite of care homes since it was launched in the UK six years ago. It presents all the comfort associated with scrubwear, but the unique designs also include side darts, contrast trims and other desirable design features making Urbane a collection of distinction. Enquiries: For further information call 0116 255 6326 or take a look at www.grahamegardner.co.uk
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Design input can improve health THE health and happiness of residents can improve dramatically if they have some input into the design of their living space, new research has found For the study, conducted by the University of Exeter in conjunction with professional designers Ambius, the communal areas of one floor of a residents’ home were re-furnished with the residents’ choice of plants and artwork. Following the redesign, residents were asked to rate their health and wellbeing on a numerical scale at various times over a four-month period. By the end of the study it was found that, in comparison to their peers, empowered residents: Used their lounge more than twice as much (217 per cent more). Were 40 per cent more satisfied with their lives. Were 46 per cent more comfortable in their home. Reported themselves to be 43 per cent healthier. Kenneth Freeman, international technical director at Ambius, said: “By encouraging their collective input
Mobility Healthcare
into the design of communal living space, our research found significant and positive consequences for both residents and their carers. “In particular, engaging with groups in this way led residents to have a greater sense of psychological comfort and social identification with others in the home. “Residents exhibited more considerate citizenship behaviour towards their fellow residents, and they reported and exhibited improved life satisfaction and physical health.” He added that the residents who decided on the décor of their home were steered clear of floral patterns, chintz and pastel colours in favour of more modern art prints, bold colours and more ‘architectural’ plant displays. Kenneth added: “Although not tested, it has been mooted that these choices were made because bright, bold colours and shapes are highly visible against the background of the space, standing out for those whose visual senses may no longer be as sharp as they were when young.”
Stop diseases and save on costs ELECTROLUX Professional Laundry has launched a new comprehensive Laundry Practice Pack on how to control the spread of infections with good laundry practice and the latest energy efficient laundry equipment. As a leading laundry equipment provider to the care and health sector, Electrolux Professional is committed to reducing diseases and infections,
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and is continually developing laundry equipment to tackle the problem more efficiently as well as producing the lowest cost in use machines in the market. Using the best equipment available is a primary factor, but a well designed laundry can also offer significant cost savings. Electrolux Professional offers a free laundry audit to determine the overall requirements.