Caring UK October 2023

Association’s roadmap for social care

CARE England has announced the launch of Care For Our Future, a roadmap for delivering sustainable adult social care.

Setting out the sector’s priorities across three key themes – workforce, funding and integration – the roadmap issues a series of policy recommendations for the next Government to implement within 100 days, two years and five years of entering office.

Professor Martin Green OBE, chief executive of Care England, said: “Social care affects all of us. From the vital care and support delivered to our loved ones to the £51.5bn contributed to the English economy every year, all our futures depend on a wellresourced and resilient sector.

“This roadmap harnesses the sector’s talent and enthusiasm to provide a blueprint for the next Government to move us towards the sustainable future our sector and society desperately needs.

“The recommendations are pragmatic, realistic and would deliver meaningful impact.

“This includes a multi-billion pound boost to the economy, shorter NHS waiting times and care work becoming a valued and rewarded career. It is incumbent upon the incoming Government, whatever their political persuasion, to put the future of adult social care at the

heart of its vision for the country and this roadmap represents the foundations on which to do so.”

To improve the quality of care, boost the economy and empower the sector’s workforce, Care England is calling on the next Government to commit to: Within 100 days of the next Government taking office:

n Mandate the professional registration of adult social care staff in England.

n Zero-rate VAT for welfare services in England.

n Mandate direct adult social care representation at all ICS levels in England.

Within two years of the next Government taking office:

n Implement a fully-funded £15 minimum care wage and develop parity of esteem with NHS staff.

n Close the Fair Cost of Care funding gap and repeat the exercise at a sector-wide level.

n Publish a strategy for hospital discharge which introduces a national tariff of £1,500 per week. Within five years of the next Government taking office:

n Consolidate reforms within a fully-funded, long-term adult social care workforce plan.

n Deliver a long-term adult social care funding settlement, with a £10bn annual funding boost.

n Deliver a fully mapped prevention and integration plan.

disease, has received many accolades including the National Alzheimer’s Association’s Caregiver Award. He has raised more than $50million for charity with his music. He popped into The Oaks Care Home ahead of his headlining appearance at Party at the Porth with Cymryd

Excitement building for CUK Awards

EXCITEMENT is building for the industry’s biggest end-of-year party, with plans in place to make this year’s Caring UK Awards the best one yet.

Nominations for the 2023 awards are now closed and the full shortlist is on page 31 of this issue.

Organised by Script Media in partnership with Caring UK and headline sponsor Virgin Money, this annual celebration of success will culminate in a glittering ceremony – taking place at the Athena in Leicester on Thursday December 7 – where our celebrity host will reveal the lucky winners who will take home an award.

Shortlisted entries from far and wide have made the finals, now progressing to the next stage of the judging process.

Event organiser Dominic Musgrave added: “We have been amazed by the incredible work that has taken and is continuing to take place in homes nationwide, and the last few years has only confirmed to us just how wonderful care staff truly are.

“Once again we were overwhelmed with the standard of entries we received from homes up and down the country.

“We can’t wait to celebrate with everyone at the awards ceremony in Leicester on December 7.”

An American singing star who appeared on The Voice USA came to perform to the residents of The Oaks Care Home in Newtown. Country music star Jay Allen became a viral sensation after releasing Blank Stares in 2018 in memory of his mother who battled early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The song was a hit sensation with nearly two million Spotify streams. Jay, who wants to raise awareness of the

Rhan, a three-day festival being held in Montgomeryshire.

Baron Medical

Serving The Community – Care Homes – and The Carer @Home

Since 1987, Baron Medical has provided a wide range of services to the Care Industry, both at home and abroad, originating as an NHS Consultancy, and is probably one of the oldest Companies serving our sector.

With our unique buying power, we are able to offer prices for both new and refurbished goods. The following prices are for 1-4 mixed items with standard 10% discount when ordering specifically from this advert. 5-9 mixed unit items attract 15% discount and 20% for 10 or more. VAT ABSORBED!

WINNCARE COMMUNITY BED

• Unique folding system allows the Bed to easily manoeuvre for delivery and between rooms. Frame with Head & Tail ends.

£480 for 1 - or £384 for 10+

To include side Rails and Med/High pressure mattress £790 or £632 for 10+

DYNA-FORM HYBRID AIR-MATTRESS & PUMP

• Can be used with or without pump, (included in the price).

• Bariatric weight capacity of 40 Stone (254 kgs)

• These are pre-owned but have been cleaned, sanitised and serviced by the original manufacturer.

• Full spec available on request

£350 for 1 or £280 for 10+ + 1 FOC

BARON COMMUNITY BED

from Alerta

• With wood Oak effect head, tail ends and side rails, this is also delivered folded for easy assembly

£550 for 1 or £440 for 10+

Need NEW Mattress? add £120

(Limited stock of Low & Ultra Low also available. POA)

Ask for full detail sheet, and quote CARINGUK before ordering to obtain introductory 10% discount. Call 0800 954 8801 – Text 07768 800 188 Or email: Maureen (or) Brian@BaronMedical.co.uk

Life-long carer Dana joins Rapid Response Team

A LIFE-LONG carer has taken up a new role at the Norfolk home-care company she first joined as a school leaver.

Dana Frost had a brief break from working at family-run Extra Hands before returning three years ago.

Earlier this year she moved to the Rapid Response Team at the company’s Heacham branch, working alongside colleagues Nina Stephen and Tamara Proctor to provide support for serviceusers and carers alike.

“I’ve been with Extra Hands for many years now, and this is my second time around,” she said.

“They’re the best employer I’ve ever had, and I can’t believe how helpful they are. They really look after you.

“At the beginning of this year, they asked me if I’d be interested in Rapid Response, and I wasn’t sure to begin with.

“But the more they told me about it, the more interested I was, and, now that I’m doing it, I love it.

“It’s nice to go out and see people for the first time and to get to see the whole process as care plans are put in place. It’s lovely. I just like meeting new people.”

“I also like the variety,” she added. “You never know where you’re going to be, and it’s nice to have that excitement and

sense of anticipation.

“I could get called out if a carer has gone sick or been held up somewhere, or there might be an issue with medication.

“It’s nice knowing that if there’s an emergency somewhere, we’ll be able to support them.

“As carers you only have limited time

with someone, whereas, if someone has had a fall, for example, it’s nice to know that we’re there to support them.”

Her role as a member of the Rapid Response Team also involves annual reviews of service-users and their care packages, along with the regular assessment and monitoring of carers.

“It’s definitely an interesting role,” Dana added.

“I like working in the office for a little while, and I like being out on the ground too, so this provides the perfect balance.

“Care work is very, very rewarding, and I’m so glad that when I started out, it was with Extra Hands. They’re always supportive and the training is brilliant.

“I’ve learnt more with Extra Hands than I have anywhere, and it’s nice to know you can always speak to someone in the office – they’re just on the end of the phone and always happy to help and to give advice. They sort everything out for you.

“Some companies don’t really care about their staff, but Extra Hands are more caring and supportive, and it feels like a family. I’m very happy with everything I do there and am going to stay as long as I can. I can’t see me leaving anytime soon.”

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Dana Frost

Morris dancers on front foot for celebration

COLOURFUL Morris dancers brought music, movement and merriment to a Hampshire care home as residents and staff celebrated the latest addition to their nationally recognised garden.

Home joins forces with charity to offer unpaid carers respite

A SOLIHULL care home has partnered with an industry charity to offer its community of unpaid carers a place to socialise and step away from the challenges of caring for a loved one.

Blossomfield Rose has opened its doors to the Carers Trust in an endeavour to offer respite and support to those caring for loved ones at home.

The collaboration offers the charity the use of the home’s state-of-theart facilities for monthly meet-ups, relaxation days and the opportunity to connect with fellow carers.

Bo Micu, home manager at

Blossomfield Rose, added: “We’re pleased to be able to join forces with such an important charity in our sector, creating an environment that prioritises the wellbeing of our residents but also extends our care to those who tirelessly support their loved ones at home.

“We are delighted to be part of their journey and look forward to making a positive impact together.”

By providing a serene and comfortable environment, the care home aims to contribute to the wellbeing of caregivers who often find solace in connecting with others who share similar experiences.

Traditional English folk dances performed by the New Forest Meddlars prompted smiles all round among the open-air audience at Woodpeckers in Brockenhurst.

It was part of a day of celebrations to mark the opening of the Colten Care home’s new greenhouse, enabling residents to enjoy hands-on gardening activities all year round.

Home Manager Priya Joseph said: “Our garden is not just a pretty space. It is used every day by residents to increase mobility, stay active and help mental health.

“The garden is an extension of the rest of the home and the new greenhouse strengthens the message that it is for everyone, even in wet weather.”

Accompanied by three accordions and a flute, and proudly holding their sticks and handkerchiefs, half a dozen Meddlars delighted the spectators with their rhythmic stepping and ornate costumes featuring waistcoats, beads and bells.

The culmination of the event came as Woodpeckers’ Sheila Burn cut the ribbon to officially open the greenhouse.

Moments later, fellow resident Georgina Chesters gave it a public blessing, declaring: “God bless this greenhouse and all that grows in it.”

The performers then gave the greenhouse a ‘Morris seal of approval’ by dancing through and around it

several times. They were joined in their performance by Bumble, the mascot of young carers’ charity Honeypot, a community cause supported by both the Meddlars and Woodpeckers.

Home manager Priya Joseph said: “Our garden is not just a pretty space. It is used every day by residents to increase mobility, stay active and help mental health.

“The garden is an extension of the rest of the home and the new greenhouse strengthens the message that it is for everyone, even in wet weather.”

Woodpeckers resident Sheila Burn cuts the ribbon to declare the greenhouse open. In the foreground, right, is fellow resident Georgina Chesters who gave it a public blessing. Next to Georgina is the companionship team leader Jane Bunker.

A resident and a young boy have become best friends at RMBI Care Co. Home Shannon Court in Hindhead. Resident Gladys Bendell enjoys hanging out with Harrison, who is the son of one of the home’s activities coordinators, Leah Oliver. Harrison, a seven-year-old boy who has autism, has built a great relationship with Gladys, and now they are ‘best friends’. Recently, Harrison decided to pick some blackberries for the chef to make a pie. With the manager’s permission, he took Gladys for a walk around the home’s extensive grounds with Leah accompanying them. Leah said: “Gladys was very thankful to Harrison for choosing to take her out. They really are the best of friends, and always look forward to the next time they see each other.”

CareZips® Classic adaptive pants

CareZips® Classic are patented, easy dressing unisex adaptive pants designed for older and disabled people suffering with problems associated with continence, mobility, mental function and cognition.

Suitable for persons living in care institutions, receiving care at home or living independently at home, CareZips® Classic enable people to dress themselves or with assistance from carers.

Good rating celebrated

STAFF at Marina Care Home in Southport are celebrating after receiving a ‘Good’ rating in their latest Care Quality Commission inspection.

The Prime Care group facility offers residential, respite and dementia care it is part of the which has two homes in the area.

As part of the inspection, CQC looked at the improvements made since the last inspection report (published February 9, 2023) and confirmed that the management team had worked hard to improve the standards of care and support.

Home manager Adam Holmes said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this rating which is great

recognition for the hard work and dedication of our staff.

“This achievement reflects the continuous effort and commitment we put into providing the highest standard of care and support to all our residents. We couldn’t have achieved this without the unwavering trust and support from our residents and their families.

“It’s important that staff, residents and their families feel comfortable at the home. We are committed to ensuring Marina is a wonderful place to live and work.”

The inspection detailed positive feedback from residents and staff while noting the home’s calm and friendly feel.

CareZips® Classic feature patented three-zipper system, which opens the front of the pants from the waist to the knees for quicker access during toileting, continence pads changes and personal hygiene.

The forward positioning of the two side zippers lessens pressure on sensitive hip areas, helping to eliminate discomfort.

The third zipper facilitates simple full frontal opening for faster more dignified diaper changes, catheter adjustments, personal cleansing and hygiene routines.

CareZips® Classic have many benefits for the older and disabled users and their carers:

n People dressing themselves enjoy the practical functionality and versatility of the CareZips® Classic, all day comfort and easy garment

care.

n People dependent on assisted dressing appreciate quick easy dressing process with less stress, embarrassment and greater dignity offered by CareZips® Classic.

n CareZips® Classic offer practical gains to the carers, helping them to provide better care, whilst reducing physical efforts and saving valuable time.

CareZips® Classic are unisex, available in six sizes and three practical colours (i.e. black, charcoal and navy). Tapered fit at the ankles gives a tidy appearance. Made from breathable moisturewicking four-way stretchy creasefree and easy-care durable fabric, CareZips® Classic are comfortable, practical and conveniently functional. For more information call Win Health Medical Ltd on 01835 864866 or visit www.win-health.com

Registered manager membership

Join our growing community of registered managers

Are you a registered manager of an adult social care service? Join us and keep up-to-date with sector developments, share ideas and best practice with like-minded peers and access benefits that enhance your learning, development and wellbeing.

Skills for Care is the membership organisation for registered managers in England. Our members are raising the profile of your profession that sits at the heart of our sectorchampioning the values for delivering compassionate, person-centred care.

Membership benefits include:

■ printed copy of our Social care manager’s handbook – the go-to resource for registered managers

■ dedicated monthly newsletter full of relevant information for your role

■ exclusive resource when you renew your membership

■ the chance to train to become a mentor or receive mentoring

■ access to further guidance and resources

…plus much more!

Is your organisation looking to invest in yourregistered managers?

Membership adds value and demonstrates a commitment to investing in your managers. Buy 10 or more memberships and receive a 10% discount.

Find out more and join us today for only £35 per year www.skillsforcare.org.uk/membership

Latest project from Access 21

JUST wanted to share some details of a lovely home that Access 21 has recently designed and completed in Kent.

We provided building and decorating services, interior design ideas, furniture, upholstery fabrics, curtains/blinds and artwork to refurbish all the communal areas of the home, creating very different areas with linking themes that are both practical yet beautifully stylish.

Consultancy and works all followed in a logical sequence to maximise time planning and minimise any disruption.

Excellent communication between the client and ourselves together with the wide range of services and choices that we were able to offer contributed to the success of this fantastic project. We even

visited with a furniture van and samples so that residents and staff could try out items for size and comfort before choosing a wide selection.

We’ve pictured some of the finished items above. Getting in touch What would you like to do to update your home?

Even with a small budget we can work with you to achieve the look you desire, and we have no minimum order or long-contracts. We would be happy to help!

Enquiries: Please contact either Eda or Karen on 020 8194 2221, email info@access21ltd.co.uk or take a look at our new website for design inspiration at www.access21interiors.co.uk

Improving wellbeing and supporting personalised care – have you tried My Life TV?

ON DEMAND streaming service, My Life TV, offers a unique solution for care homes and care providers, supporting your staff to deliver high quality, person-centred care and inspiring and facilitating reminiscence and activities.

The service is specifically designed for the elderly and to include people living with dementia, as well as their carers.

It contains more than 170 hours of content carefully produced and selected to improve wellbeing, boost engagement and create conversation between residents and service users, their families and care staff.

One subscriber to the service, St Mary’s Care Home, in Hampton, said: “It’s a complete game changer for our residents. Putting on some of the films instantly changes their mood. They are happy, laughing, interacting with other residents...”

My Life TV has a rich mix of content, from activities for individuals or groups, including sing-a-longs, quizzes, chair yoga and art classes, through to reminiscence programmes and joyful entertainment.

There are programmes to help

distract, calm or relax agitated or anxious individuals.

From Bruce Forsyth’s Generation Game to Gardener’s World and Delia, there are favourites from the nation’s archives.

There’s an abundance of content to help continue people’s interests and hobbies – and to spark new ones –from animals and nature, to painting

and poetry, ballroom dancing to birdwatching, cookery to crafts and cars, to travel, sports and music.

Subscribers can find something perfect for the moment, mood and situation, all accessible at any time of day or night, via any internet connected device.

The service supports and enables reminiscence – so important for the

elderly and individuals living with dementia – taking people back, to recollect fond memories and times gone by.

There is a wealth of content, from Reminiscence with Jan, to historic programmes, like A Year to Remember, taking in key moments, including the Queen’s coronation and England winning the World Cup, and other stimulus to provoke memories and create conversation.

Your staff may not remember or understand how life was in the past, but users often comment that My Life TV enables staff to get to know their residents better, as well as helping families to enjoy shared time with loved ones, creating new memories and inspiring conversations.

My Life TV is run by award-winning dementia charity, My Life Films, which works with trusted, expert partners, including Alzheimer’s Society, BBC Archive, National Trust, BFI and the National Activity Providers Association, as well as engaging with subscribers and users, to ensure the platform adds real value, is dementia-centred and grounded in supporting best practice care. It is one of the reasons My Life TV has been cited as supporting outstanding care delivery by the Care Quality Commission.

You can find out more about My Life TV by visiting www.mylifefilms.org

Grant helps to boost veterans’ wellbeing

A CARE home for veterans has hailed the impact of its wellbeing activities for dozens of residents living with dementia or cognitive decline.

Broughton House Veteran Care Village in Salford has been able to fund a variety of initiatives through a grant of £30,000 from the Veterans’ Foundation.

Led by Cheryl Monnie, an experienced care worker and qualified teacher who is the wellbeing and activities lead at Broughton House, staff have been able to support veterans with one-to-one and group activities to enhance their wellbeing and stimulate their memory and cognition.

Karen Miller, chief executive of Broughton House, said 74 veterans have benefited as a direct result of the grant being awarded in June 2022.

In an annual survey of residents’ family members conducted over the past two months, 92 per cent of respondents said their relatives’ quality of life had improved since they moved to Broughton House.

Karen added: “The support we have received from the Veterans Foundation has been fantastic for our residents.

“It’s enabled us to fund the continued employment of a wellbeing and activities lead, and for our dedicated care staff to work extra hours so they can spend additional quality time with each veteran who has dementia or cognitive decline.

“As our care home has expanded and we have welcomed more

veterans to Broughton House, it’s been wonderful to be able to provide company and stimulation for residents with those conditions.

“We’ve also been able to provide training for staff to experience for themselves what it’s like to have dementia or cognitive decline, using virtual reality tools.

“It’s very exciting to have Cheryl as part of our team. She specialises in textiles and design. Textures and craft activities are particularly important

and valued by our residents, as they provide sensory stimulation.

“As well as these activities, staff play dominoes and cards with our veterans, take them on nature walks and hold pamper sessions for our female residents. We’ve also been able to provide a traditional barber’s shop experience for the men.

“Group activities include themed events focusing on other countries, with quizzes, interactive games and traditional food from those nations.

Nurse Call Systems

“The impact has been reflected in our annual survey and we’re sincerely and hugely grateful to the Veterans’ Foundation for making it all possible.”

Broughton House has cared for more than 8,000 veterans since it opened its doors to the ex-service community in 1916.

It has recently been redeveloped into a complex with a 64-bed care home and independent living apartments, an array of modern facilities, a museum, gym, hairdressing and barber’s salon, and a restaurant and bar for residents.

There is also an Armed Forces Support Hub which provides welfare support and counselling for ex-service people of all ages living in the local community.

The Veterans’ Foundation helps fund charities and other charitable organisations that help serving and former members of the armed forces, and their dependants, who are in need.

It raises money through the Veterans’ Lottery and donations, with almost £17m in grants having been awarded to over 400 UK-based military charities since its inception in 2016.

Veterans’ Foundation founder and CEO David Shaw said: “We are delighted to continue our longstanding support of Broughton House. The Veterans’ Foundation is proud to play a part in the first-class care of British veterans living with dementia or cognitive decline.”

Cheryl Monnie with resident Harold Ellison.

Event attending:

East Midlands

East of England

CARING UK CONFERENCES 2023

BOOKING FORM

The Road to Success

Single delegate rate £20 per person Two delegates £30

Ashford International Hotel & Spa TN24 8UX Dunston Hall Hotel, Norwich NR14 8PQ

Delegates attending (Please print in block capitals)

Tuesday 24th October 2023

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CARINGCARE SHOW PREVIEW

Vivid.Care

Visit us and experience our range of adjustable and portable medical recliners designed to support and manage the reduced mobility people and those with complex medical conditions, from Dementia to Huntington’s Disease. Across community and acute care environments, our products focus on comfort, safety, and improved quality of life for reduced mobility patients. Vivid Care are your trusted, care sector equipment partner, we specialise in creating and supplying highquality patient seating solutions. Email enquiries@vivid.care

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danfloor uk

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danfloor will showcase its range of carpets that help to create a therapeutic environment. Established collections such as Equinox and Evolution will be presented alongside some new concepts, providing visitors with an insight into our design capabilities. Within our exhibition room you can learn about our innovative product features which make our collections suitable for the care sector. Features that include a permanent antimicrobial yarn treatment, our impervious layer, and our Stirling University DSDC approved colour bank. www.danfloor.co.uk

Carebeans

CoolCare

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We’re delighted to have a stand at this year’s Care Show, demonstrating our product and exploring how CoolCare can benefit your care home. Our team will be showcasing how you can increase your admin efficiency through digitalisation and automation, and exploring how our technology can increase staff productivity with its timeliness and accuracy. The aim of our product is to relieve pressure on your team and allow them to spend more time with the residents.

Email sales@coolcare4.co.uk or call 0113 385 3853.

F45 Gompels

Gompels is a leading supplier of medical, nursing, hygiene supplies and equipment to the care industry with more than 50 years’ experience. Providing more than ‘just a supplier’ our refreshing service extends to more than simply supplying our customers, we proactively find solutions for your goals whether that be to; reduce costs, improve efficiency, innovate or for peace of mind of a reliable supply chain. Choosing the right supplier is more important than ever so speak to us and we will show you why Gompels supplies to thousands of homes. www.gompels.co.uk

J31 Caring UK

Carebeans is a UK-based contemporary, innovative software development company. We build highly focused, comprehensive care planning management software, rostering, time and attendance, invoicing and payroll alongside fully integrated mobile applications for the UK care sector. The Carebeans team has many years of hands-on experience of giving, receiving and managing in the care sector. This has enabled us to engineer a software system that can facilitate your path to being outstanding care providers whatever your field. www.carebeans.co.uk

apetito

Caring UK is the number one magazine for key decision makers in the elderly care sector. Mailed monthly free of charge, targeting proprietors, managers, financial directors, individuals working within the purchasing department, matrons and senior nursing staff of care homes, nursing homes, dual registered homes and retirement villages. We guarantee that your marketing plan is delivered

www.caring-uk.co.uk

Fusion

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We believe food should be enjoyed by everyone. Packed with quality ingredients, our meals are delicious, nutritious and cater to all residents’ dietary needs. Our service goes beyond great food. We build genuine partnerships: helping to ensure your residents always look forward to mealtimes. Are you a care home group? If so, we’d like to invite you to join us in our VIP lounge at the Care Show on October 11 and 12. We look forward to discussing how we can help transform your care home catering. Book your space now at apetito.link/careshow

Workforce management, care planning and resident invoicing trusted by thousands of users, from single site operators to large multi home organisations. We will provide you with the best end to end software in social care. Each of our modules can be taken standalone or combined for a solution that caters for all. We will do all the hard work for you. Once you’ve made the switch we will be here to train and support you. All customers receive free product upgrades and features which are typically released every few months. www.fusionEcare.com

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Discover how to save money and make efficiencies in the kitchen

VISIT apetito at the Care Show and discover how to save money and make efficiencies in the kitchen.

If you’re a care home group, apetito would like to invite you to its VIP Lounge to learn more about how its meals service goes beyond providing great tasting food and can transform your care home catering.

As a leading meals provider, apetito builds genuine partnerships with care homes across the country; reducing costs, waste, and labour requirements, whilst still delivering high-quality meals residents always look forward to.

With apetito, care homes are able to save money on their catering through reducing labour and waste and associated costs, whilst still meeting a

wide and diverse range of nutritional needs that supports their residents’ care. At the core of apetito’s service is the belief that food should be enjoyed by everyone.

Packed with quality ingredients, every single dish is developed by apetito’s team of in-house chefs and dietitians to be delicious and nutritious. apetito is also at the forefront of specialist nutrition meals, with an award-winning range of texture-modified meals designed following International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Framework guidance for residents with dysphagia.

Using apetito’s pre-prepared texture modified meals, care homes are able to ensure residents living

Advertiser’s announcement

Spend 25 per cent less at Gompels

WE like to think of ourselves as more than just a supplier. We will show you how to easily reduce your expenditure by 25 per cent and more.

All of our tools are free and already set up for you. Save time, save money and start profiting today with Gompels; a hassle-free supplier who looks after you for the long term.

n Business Dashboard typically saves you five per cent from having actionable spend analysis.

n Budget alerts reduce overspend and save you a whopping seven per cent.

n With a smart core list in place for your sites, you can save 10 per cent on your purchasing.

Don’t just take our word for it… “Gompels helped to streamline, not only the supply, but also the products themselves by implementing a flexible fore list for the homes to order from. We were really impressed by Gompels

consolidated invoicing, our finance team can simply log in and download the invoices, and can also see at a glance what is due. Gompels also offer direct debit which means the team does not have to spend time setting up payments.”

Kelly Jackson, procurement director, ADL Care

We do the basics brilliantly

Since working with National Autistic Society since the beginning of the pandemic:

n More than 2,500 orders have been placed.

n 99.64 per cent of orders arrived the next working day and in full. Come and have a chat to us at the Care Show (stand F45).

If you are a group customer and want to learn more, contact our key account manager Sam Paines by emailing sam.paines@gompels.co.uk or calling 0345 450 2420.

with dysphagia can enjoy mealtimes without having to compromise on flavour, visual appeal and most importantly, safety.

It’s also developed a range of revolutionary Finger Food Bites, which bring back dignity to dining for residents with dementia as they provide residents with a nutritionally balanced meal option that can still be eaten with their hands.

General manager of apetito’s care home division, Richard Woodward, said: “Our service goes beyond providing delicious food.

“We know every care home is different and we want to build a genuine partnership with teams: supporting them every step of the way to ensure residents always look

forward to mealtimes.

“We’re proud that our service not only ensures homes can deliver a diverse range of delicious meals but also crucially saves them time and money in the kitchen.

“Customers tell us how much they value having more time to devote to frontline care since moving over to us resulting in streamlining cost efficiencies with no loss of service.

“My team and I are keen to talk to about how we can support care homes, deliver efficiencies and ensure quality mealtimes.”

Book your space at apetito’s VIP Lounge now at apetito.link/careshow or visit us on stand K35. Alternatively, call us on 0808 239 2399 or visit https://apetito.link/CaringUK

How technology is addressing the carer shortage

A DEARTH of experienced carers, coupled with a high turnover rate and the difficulty finding lastminute care staff, has left many care providers grappling with an ongoing recruitment headache.

Hiring carers is a time-consuming, manual process, but in line with the Government’s pledge to digitise care services, online care platform Curam is harnessing the latest biometric technology in its recruitment.

Curam works with many of the UK’s leading care providers, offering a bespoke, digital tool which provides access to all their care needs in one place.

Created to help address the social care staffing crisis, Curam is the biggest care worker marketplace in the UK – with more than 8,000 experienced, vetted and DBS-checked carers. Its state-of-the-art technology means that a job can be posted and

care can be arranged within 20 minutes, providing a vital source of last minute care or regular shifts. It also offers a rapid hospital discharge service.

Every carer on the platform is interviewed and vetted by Curam, they also verify the carer’s DBS check, carry out high-level biometric checks on all carer applications, check the right to work in the UK and obtain certificates for any qualifications.

Curam is constantly investing in the latest technology to be able to offer new services to care providers and continues to be at the forefront of the UK’s move towards greater adoption of technology across social care.

Enquiries: Drop in for a chat at stand number 3 in space J100 or email us at partnerships@curam.io or visit www.curamcare.com to find out more.

You do not have to be outstanding to join the Outstanding Society

By Sanjay Dhrona

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE OUTSTANDING TO JOIN THE OUTSTANDING SOCIETY.

Yes really, we just shouted that, because it’s true, so true I’ll say it twice.

You do not have to be outstanding to join, you just have to want to share and learn from others in the sector who are focused on being the best they can!

I came to the sector eight years ago, with zero knowledge, and how I wish the OS was around in this form then, but it’s not just for the new kids in town.

My Registered Manager, who has spent their whole career in adult social care, working up from the floor to being an RM, loves the OS and what it has to share.

Who are we and what do we do…? Well, the OS was formed by a small group of providers who had, at the time, all recently achieved ‘Outstanding’ ratings following the introduction of the Care Quality Commission inspection standard ratings in 2014.

There was a general consensus between these providers that it would be beneficial to the sector if services were able to share their expertise with other providers and support the driving up of quality across the whole of England.

In 2021 the OS was set up as a Community Interest Company.

This was to provide a platform to share and celebrate best practice whilst helping others to improve and raise the profile of social care.

Our joint vision as directors is to give providers FREE membership which allows free access to our virtual events, newsletters and podcasts.

It provides a platform for all providers to access topical information and will also be a platform to celebrate innovation and share best practice.

We continue to have close partnerships with Care England, Skills for Care, the Care Workers Charity and the Department of Health and Social Care and are recognised as a trade association by the CQC.

The main question is why bother…? Why get involved…? There’s a hundred online groups and webinars.

Well, simply put, we’ve all learned the hard way. Experiences and learnings are shared, discussed and often workshopped openly, in a completely caring fashion.

We never say our way is the only way, in fact we actively encourage theft. Steal the best ideas from each other and add your spin on them.

What’s lovely is when we share ideas, they are adapted through the lens of a particular service with their specific needs, and we see what has been achieved.

Keep in mind The OS is totally run by providers, we know the challenges and we know that tackling them together makes it easier.

Best of all it’s FREE. There’s no sales pitch to buy anything. We have sponsors who we appreciate and value and only work with if we think they are the very best there is. So much of what we do, and do so well, is because of the diversity in the people we have in the team, from small independent operators to people that have worked in large groups and now run them.

The space is totally inclusive, and we ensure that we cover the learning needs of the domiciliary care market too.

The Outstanding Society Community Interest Company is a limited company registered in England and Wales. Company Number 13434980 Registered Office: Atlas Chambers 33 West Street, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2RE

The important thing with The OS is that it’s not a passive membership.

Don’t just join and sign up to the monthly webinar… get involved! Communicate! Talk to us! Ask to do a podcast with us.

If you have something to shout about, SHOUT! Shout through our megaphone! We have spent time and resources creating an amazingly loud voice for providers like us in this truly awesome and dynamic sector we love and work in.

The OS is a space for change, and we really are supporting our sector, affecting actual change and improvement to practise and policy, from by the bed side all the way to government.

Our work with the now famous and exceptional VIVALDI study, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for people living, visiting, and working in care homes, while also reducing the risk of infections and avoiding hospital admissions.

VIVALDI endeavour to achieve this through this study, utilising existing data, with minimal input required from care home providers.

The OS also manage the information delivery

system of Social Care Nursing Advisory Councils. The chief nurse for ASC, Deborah Sturdy, is working with colleagues at NHS England and across all 42 local Integrated Care Boards in England, to establish SCNACs.

The purpose of these councils is to help provide a better understanding of nursing in ASC, as well as insight into the wider sector, to directors of nursing in ICBs.

This is an exciting opportunity for nurses working in ASC to inform local understanding and recognition of their profession and the wider sector.

The Florence Nightingale Foundation, in partnership with Deborah, offered a bespoke development programme for all those selected to be chairs of the 42 SCNACs ICBs across England.

As if that wasn’t enough – The OUT STANDING DIVERSITY FORUM will work to foster inclusion for all diverse, socially mobile, and under-represented talent and residents working and using the ASC sector, and to promote inclusion and best practice in all facets of the sector by working to share and promote a space to learn, share from each other in order to create environments where the best talent can succeed and for the benefit of the people we care for.

There’s much more to come – exciting learning around Environmental Social and Governance, plus new podcasts and attendances at the leading trade shows.

It’s really worth getting involved no matter what your position, from CEO to the catering team we have something exciting for everyone.

Go on, what are you waiting for… get involved… it starts with a simple click on https://theoutstandingsociety.co.uk/

The directors of the Outstanding Society will be at the Care Show on October 11 and 12 at the Birmingham NEC, and would love to see you.

Or you can attend our next virtual meeting for free through our website.

n Sanjay Dhrona is the managing director of the Close Care Home and director of The OS.

Sanjay Dhrona

A lot can happen in five days…

IT’S SIX years since the Liberta Vie furniture range launched, two years since Liv for mental health communities launched, six weeks since the Furncare national distribution centre opened and five days before many of today’s furniture orders are delivered.

These landmarks all help to reduce hassle for care communities.

Furncare director Randal Southall, said: “Some customers work with interior designers to create stunning

rooms from our bespoke collections.

“Sometimes though, expert resources aren’t available so we developed our coordinated bedroom packages.”

Liberta Vie is the hassle-free solution for the elderly. It provides flexibility to refurbish bedrooms quickly. Liv too, but with a more youthful design for challenging environments, and robust construction.

In just five working days, furniture

Truvox International focuses on floorcare at The Care Show

VISITORS to stand K21 at The Care Show 2023 at NEC Birmingham on October 11 and 12will see the latest innovative floorcare solutions from Truvox International.

“Proper floorcare in a care home environment is essential as it makes a major contribution to health, safety and hygiene,” said Truvox International UK national sales manager Paul Robinson. “

At The Care Show we will be demonstrating some of our latest floorcare machines which focus on ease-of-use and manoeuvrability, coupled with maximum reliability and performance.”

Ideal for use in the care home environment, the Multiwash™ PRO range of scrubber dryers wash, scrub and dry in just one single pass, so floors are left clean and dry, ready for staff, residents and visitors to walk on.

Delivering exceptional productivity, the Multiwash™ PRO is effective on all floors, from carpets and hard floors to entrance matting. The contra-rotating cylindrical brushes scrub and lift dirt, giving a more hygienic and deeper clean.

Also on show at The Care Show will be: the VTVe compact tub vacuum, which offers great performance with excellent manoeuvrability, and includes a HEPA 13 filter as standard; and the Hydromist Compact – a simple, manoeuvrable and effective all-in-one carpet cleaning machine for carpet and upholstery cleaning.

Visible cleaning reassures residents, staff and visitors

“Throughout and since the pandemic, cleaning routines have become more of a front of house activity,” added Paul.

“So, the fact that the Multiwash™ PRO, VTVe – and all our machines – look so professional is a positive benefit, and we know that visible cleaning reassures residents, staff and visitors.

“Some premises have dedicated cleaning operatives, but some care homes may rely on almost all personnel taking their turn in ensuring facilities are safe and hygienic. The ease of use of our floorcare machines is therefore another major reason for their popularity and success.

“For instance, using Multiwash™ PRO requires minimal training and people tell us that it is easier and considerably less messy than using a more traditional mop and bucket.

“Using a mop just spreads dirt around, while the

Multiwash™ PRO will scrub and pick up the dirt into the tank which can then be easily emptied. Safety is always top of mind and majorly important in care homes, so the Multiwash™ PRO is designed to remove chemical residues and eradicates slip hazards.

“Manoeuvrability and ease of use are important considerations, so at The Care Show we will also be demonstrating the Valet Dual Motor Upright, a HEPA filtered upright vacuum, with two motors giving greater pick-up and improved carpet appearance.

“If you want to discover how to improve floorcare in care homes, we look forward to welcoming you to stand K21 at The Care Show, where you can try each of our machines for yourself,” concludes Paul Robinson. Enquiries: Visit https://www.truvox.com/

can be delivered and taken to the room of your choice by your Furncare driver. That means residents can sit back and relax in the comfort of a beautifully appointed room in next to no time.

By using the popular what3words app, Furncare customers can guide drivers to a precise room. Each combination of three words pinpoints a three metre square, giving the driver all the information needed to deliver and streamline the process

for the care home.

Furncare challenge visitors to The Care Show to visit stand J75 and tell them what can be found at /// energetic.lyricism.folk.

A prize is available for all correct answers (subject to availability). Extra points will be given if you know the significance of this location.

To see the Liberta Vie and Liv ranges at the Furncare national distribution centre and showroom, call 01603 664900 or email sales@furncare.co.uk

Preventative, proactive technology enabled care is here

OUTCOMES based care and taking a preventative rather than reactive approach has remained aspirational in social care until now.

Moving towards these new models of care has been hampered by a range of factors, chief amongst them the lack of tools to accurately, objectively measure progress towards outcomes and have the necessary information to make proactive, preventative interventions or changes to any person’s care.

Now, a new set of technologies is making preventative, proactive care a reality.

How it works

Data from sensors on doors, on fridges, or at floor level, smart plugs on devices like kettles and wearable technology are combined in a single hub, giving care providers a real time picture of a person’s health and habits.

This is transformed into meaningful information and actionable insights.

Care providers can be alerted to early warning signs of deterioration, indicators of a fall risk and a wide range of other practical insights that increase safety, well-being and help prevent more serious incidents and hospitalisations by enabling providers to intervene before they happen.

Enabling an outcomes based approach

Using this technology, progress towards outcomes can be measured objectively, on a constant and consistent basis.

Data from a range of objects can be combined to tell us whether a person’s mobility has decreased, if they are cooking for themselves, if they are getting out of bed or not, or leaving the house.

This means if the will is there, then providers and local authorities can finally take the move towards an outcomes based approach to commissioning and delivering care

services in the community and in residential care.

Benefits for people, families and funders

People being cared for can feel much more safe that should anything go wrong, someone will respond.

They can feel more confident in taking small risks that help them stay independent for longer, remain part of their communities and even improve their health and wellbeing. For family members the not knowing is often the hardest part. With appropriate consent, they can use a mobile app to get live, reassuring insights on their loved one’s activity.

Not only can these give peace of mind and relieve the pressure of checking in person, they can brighten up their day as they see mum or dad is living a fulfilling life.

Benefits for care providers

By equipping themselves with this new technology care providers can provide a much better, more attractive service, to private funders and local authorities alike.

They can differentiate themselves from providers that have not taken the leap into the new world of proactive care.

By leveraging this technology to improve their service in key areas, they can more easily demonstrate that they are going above and beyond the expectations of regulators.

Learn more

Access Assure is being used by a number of UK local authorities and now pioneered by leading social care providers, to deliver the preventative care vision and help people achieve their desired outcomes.

To find out more and see if Assure can be deployed in your care service contact us at https://www.theaccessgroup.com/ en-gb/health-social-care/form/accessassure-demo-contact-form/

Come and meet us ..

IT’S THAT time of the year again, the summer madness is coming to a close, our workload doubles as people return to work and we start thinking about exhibitions and award ceremonies.

This year we are particularly excited to be attending the Care Show in Birmingham on October 11 and 12.

As an IT managed service provider it probably seems like a strange place for us to be but with our total focus and specialism in social care and specialist education we get to meet and talk to everyone from carers, nurses, teachers and chefs to chief executives and finance directors.

Whilst we rely on our knowledge and contacts in the industry to keep us abreast of the challenges the social care sector faces it always amazes me how many new people we speak to who are facing both known and unexpected challenges which IT

and our experience can often simply solve.

So many of our existing clients and contacts consider the Care Show to be the one exhibition to visit and this year we have an existing client who is keen to purchase a new care and rostering system and we have been asked to support them in visiting other stands who produce this software.

Our team are there to talk about how we have helped improve IT support and compliance across our clients but also how we have helped to identify, evaluate and deploy care, HR and other care associated applications which have stream line their operations, gained greater data visibility and reporting and improved cost management.

If you are planning a visit why not pop by the Workplace IT stand L73 and at the very least pick up a pen.

Care Show to feature expert speakers

CARE Show Birmingham is the UK’s multi award-winning social care event of the year – celebrating the invaluable contributions and achievements of teams across the care sector.

Taking place on October 11 and 12 at the NEC, Birmingham, Care Show brings together individuals, teams, and organisations who share a common vision of improving the quality of care in the UK.

It fosters solution-based, engaging, and inclusive conversations to transform the way care is delivered. There are seven themed theatres, providing a comprehensive platform to address the pressing issues within the sector such as what the future of care looks like, how to gain new clients in a different climate, liaising with local authorities, regulatory

updates and looking at workplace cultures by learning from different sectors.

A thread on the cost of living running through the programme will highlight the solutions to challenges faced by both care providers and end users, with a holistic approach not only acknowledging the complexities of the sector, but also having proactive discussions with practical outcomes.

Some of the expert speakers that will deliver the educational sessions and inspire you at the show are:

n Zoe Fry, director – The Outstanding Society.

n William Laing, CEO – Laing Buisson

n Rita Chowdhry, CEO – Savran Coaching and Consulting.

n Derek Breingan, head of health and social care – Virgin Money.

n Tobi Ali Usman, CEO – Smooth Digital Marketing.

n Lucy Buxton, CEO – Lib Coach Consultancy.

Key topics of conversation this year will include exploring affordable heating technologies, addressing the cost of living, enhancing staff support and resources to help with retention, looking at innovative approaches to recruitment, understanding what the digitisation of care looks like, and getting ready for the next generation of people both accessing care and working within the sector.

This year there are many exciting features to help you make the most of your time at the event, including the return of the CQC Inspector Hub, The Outstanding Society Learning Lounge, and The Care Innovation Hub from National Care

Forum, where you can find the latest products and services for social care.

New for 2023 is the introduction of the Tech Concierge Service from Guided Innovation, to assist you in finding the software suppliers you need to speak to and ensure you leave with all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

The Care Show is the opportunity to meet with leading suppliers and experts, providing the chance to stay up to date with the latest developments and to network with peers in the sector.

Gearing up to positively make changes to businesses, practice, and the delivery of exceptional care.

Registration for Care Show Birmingham 2023 is open and free passes are available for all care and healthcare professionals.

DISTINCTIVE FURNITURE FOR CARE COMMUNITIES

Holiday is a success thanks to group’s domiciliary service

A GWYNEDD dementia care group’s domiciliary service has been praised for making a family holiday to Porthmadog become a reality.

Creativity is the catch of the day for masterclass

SIX kitchen assistants from HC-One recently had the opportunity to take part in a specialist masterclass with renowned chef CJ Jackson in London’s historic Billingsgate Fish Market.

Each individual was nominated to take part in the day by their home manager, in recognition of their outstanding passion and the dedication they have shown to developing their skills in providing nutritious food and kind care to residents.

The group of kitchen assistants developed their expertise in older people’s catering, as they were shown the best ways to prepare fresh fish by CJ, who has been the principal and chief executive of the prestigious Billingsgate Seafood School for 20 years and has a number of popular recipe books.

Mark Meacham, head of catering and housekeeping support services at HC-One, said: “The kitchen assistant training and development day at Billingsgate Market was a great success.

“The day has provided an opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication of some of the fantastic kitchen assistants who are such vital parts of our care homes.

“It was a joy to be able to provide them with the chance to learn and expand their knowledge as we support them to go from strength-

to-strength in care home catering careers.”

Things heated up in the kitchen when the group went head-to-head in their own Ready Steady Cook style challenge: creating a fresh fish dish in 45 minutes with only five ingredients, using everything they had learned from their masterclass.

Leah Jackson, kitchen assistant from Rose Court, was crowned the winner by judges CJ Jackson, Mark Meacham, Chris Bonner (HC-One executive chef and nutrition and hydration lead), Jamie Clews (from HC-One’s catering suppliers Robot Coupe), and James Tugendhat, HC-One’s chief executive.

Leah won a Red Letter Days voucher for her pan-fried smoked mackerel with a pine nut oil with roasted root vegetables and courgette chips.

She added: “I was delighted to be selected by my home manager to attend the kitchen assistant training and development day at Billingsgate Market.

“I found the day extremely useful; I’ve learnt lots of new skills and knowledge which I can now put into practice to provide a variety of nutritional meals for residents living at Rose Court.

“I was also proud and humbled to be selected as the winner of the ‘Ready Steady Cook’ styled session for the fish dish I created. I’m looking forward to progressing further in my career at HC-One.”

Andrew Brown hoped to bring his 81-year-old mother, Elaine Beaumont, to North Wales from Lancashire, but was struggling to find additional support, with her wheelchair dependent following a stroke four years ago.

After extensive research, they found Meddyg Care Group, which recently unveiled its Help at Home arm of the business, to aid vulnerable people living independently and has since supported a holidaymaker’s need for domiciliary care.

Help at Home focuses on a personcentred approach – every individual receives a bespoke plan which caters to their needs, from assistance with picking up medication at the local pharmacy, jobs around the house, to preparing meals.

Being Elaine’s first holiday since her stroke, Andrew said: “We had a full itinerary as I wanted to make sure my mum experienced as much as possible, from visiting the smallest house in the UK to the village of Beddgelert for drinks and ice cream.

“The last four years have been difficult for my mum, so this short break has really lifted her spirits and given her a boost.”

During their stay, Andrew and Elaine travelled to several tourist spots, including the Porthmadog harbour, Conwy Castle,and the Snowdonia National Park via the steam train on the Welsh Highland Railway.

Andrew added: “Up until I stumbled across Meddyg Care online, the options for domiciliary care were slim, and it seemed like there was such a lack of facilities that catered to tourists.

“Laura Haynes, the Help at Home manager, was really understanding of my situation, which made a huge difference and worked with me to put a plan together for our stay.

“My mum had assistance in the morning to help her get ready for the day, and for bed, too.

“I was nervous about everything going smoothly, but Laura reassured me and I was regularly communicated with after a team member finished each visit.

“We’ll definitely be coming back and using Help at Home again.”

The care group has three locations in Gwynedd, with its domiciliary service open to all those in needs of assistance over the age of 18, delivering the same level of support as its dementia team.

Laura added: “It’s fantastic to think our service has had such a positive impact on Andrew and Elaine’s experience staying in Porthmadog.

“Meddyg Care can tailor Help at Home to holidaymakers and in turn bring more tourists to the region, who would otherwise not consider the trip due to their dependencies.

“We’re so passionate about nurturing relationships with residents and our Help at Home service users that it made perfect sense for us to extend that level of care to people visiting Gwynedd.”

Andrew concluded: “Laura and her colleague Jovy Adolfo treated my mum with dignity and respect, and always gave her a choice; asking her what clothes she wanted to wear that day, whether she wanted a shower, or just a freshen up.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support; it was discreet and personal, with Laura always going that extra mile. She even blow-dried and styled my mum’s hair, and it was like she’d been to a salon.”

Home and Hub organise event

RESIDENTS and staff from Care South’s Sussexdown residential care home in Storrington enjoyed an afternoon tea with the community in partnership with The Village Hub, a shop, cafe and community hub for the people of Storrington which is run by the Life Community Church Storrington.

The Village Hub and Sussexdown put on a high tea for the team, residents and members of the local community.

The Village Hub hold afternoon teas monthly but, due to the number of people who were attending this

event, they needed a larger space. Thankfully, Sussexdown was able to host the event.

Home manager Lynne Hudson said: “We extended the invitation to the local community to join the high tea event and were overwhelmed by the attendance of people from the local area. Events like these are an important part of our activities at the home, helping to keep residents engaged with the local community.”

Residents helped the kitchen team to prepare quintessential items including a variety of sandwiches, scones and cakes.

A

specialist dementia nursing home in Nottinghamshire welcomed

nursery children

to cook for its residents to mark Kids Take Over the

Kitchen Day

—

a fun initiative

encouraging children to participate in meal preparation, whilst promoting nutrition and healthy eating habits. Wren Hall in Selston sits next-door to Little Wrens nursery, which caters to pre-school aged children and invited them over to help the home’s chefs cook lunch for the residents. Anita Astle MBE, owner and manager of Wren Hall, said: “Helping youngsters develop new skills and broaden their horizons is

a

huge part of the nursery experience – and intergenerational bonding is a huge part of our care offering. So, we’ll eagerly seize on any chance to marry the two together. The children loved the experience and so did the residents. They did a great job on the pizzas, which were delicious.”

2023 SHORTLIST

Activities Team of the Year

Bramshott Grange, Liphook

Cheaney Court, Desborough

Crossways Nursing Home, Sutton

Field Lodge, St Ives

Glenthorne Court, Stockton

Mountbatten Lodge, Hemel Hempstead

Speyside Care Home, Aberlour

Best Outdoor Environment

Avonbridge Care Home, Hamilton

Chilton Care Centre, County Durham

Glastonbury Court, Bury St Edmunds

Hamilton Nursing Home, Surbiton

Tuxford Manor, Newark

West Heanton Residential Home, Beworthy

Catering Team of the Year

Dorset House Nursing Home, Droitwich

Finavon Court, Forfar

Howard Lodge Care Centre, Brentwood

Kingsley Care Home, Glasgow

Metchley Manor, Edgbaston

Mill Lodge Care Centre, Bradford

The Chase Care Home, Huntingdon

Quality in Housekeeping

Gable Court Nursing Home, Romford

Howard Lodge Care Centre, Brentwood

Melbourne House, Nottingham

New Milton House, Alsager

Norfolk House, Weybridge

St George’s Park Nursing Home, Telford

Trentham House, Stoke-on-Trent

Community Involvement Award

Mantles Court, Biggleswade

Margaret House Residential and Dementia Care Home, Royston

Mundy House Care Home, Basildon

Riverside House Care Home, Morpeth

The Chase Care Home, Huntingdon

Thornhill House, Barnsley

Thorp House Nursing Home, Thetford

Management Team of the Year

Bowfell House, Urmston

Home Instead, Lytham, Fylde and Wyre, Blackpool

Jasmine Court Care Home, Chorley

Keate House Residential Home, Lymm

Oaklands Rest Home, Southampton

Pure Homecare, Leicester

St Cecilia’s, Scarborough

Dementia Care Team of the Year

Appleby Care Home, North Shields

Field Lodge, St Ives

Friends of the Elderly, London

Heathlands House, Cambridge

Highstone Mews, Barnsley

Langley Park Care Home, Durham

St George’s Park Nursing Home, Telford

End of Life Team of the Year

Bramshott Grange, Liphook

Ebury Court, Romford

Ford Place Nursing Home, Thetford

Heywood Court Care Home, Heywood

New Milton House, Alsager

Pine Martin Grange, Wareham

Walfinch Suffolk Coastal, Saxmundham

Excellence and Innovation In Dementia Care

Chapel House Care, Puddington

Ebury Court, Romford

Maple Memory Centre – Brandon Park Nursing Home and Aspen Memory Centre –

Horkesley Manor Care Home

Mumby’s Live-in Care, Abingdon

Mundy House, Basildon

RMBI Care Co, London

The Future Care Group, Surbiton

Unique Homecare Services, Garstang

Commitment to Training and Development

Bay Court Nursing Home, Devon

Chapel House Care, Puddington

Fourways Residential Home, Sidmouth

Housing 21, Birmingham

Radis Community Care, Tamworth

Rotherwood Healthcare, Mountsorrel

Stow Healthcare Group, Bury St Edmunds

Regional Care Home of the Year Midlands and Wales

Aria Care Home, Newport

Ashgate House, Chesterfield

Foxhunters Care Community, Abergavenny

Lynhales Hall Nursing Home, Kington

Perry Manor, Worcester Redhill Court , Birmingham

St John’s House, Norwich

Regional Care Home of the Year South

Aveley Lodge, Colchester

Driftwood Lodge, Clacton-on-Sea

Monkscroft Care Centre, Cheltenham

Pine Martin Grange, Wareham

Shaftesbury House Residential Care Home, Ipswich

Sycamore Lodge, Bristol

The Burroughs, West Drayton

Regional Care Home of the Year North

Halecroft Grange, Altrincham

Hollins Park, Macclesfield

Park View Residential Care Home, Sheffield

Thonhill House, Barnsley

Tudor Bank Nursing Home, Southport

Ward Green Lodge, Barnsley

Regional Care Home of the Year Scotland

Allanbank Care Home, Dumfries

Bandrum Nursing Home, Fife

Caledonian Court, Falkirk

Lauder Lodge, Edinburgh

Outstanding Achievement Award

Broadlands Residential Home, Lowestoft

Chilton Care Centre, County Durham

Gable Court Nursing Home, Romford

Halliwell Care Home, Tunbridge Wells

Parklands Care Homes, Grantown-on-Spey

Pure Homecare, Leicester

Care Employee of the Year

Charlotte Lee, Autumn Cottage, Southend-on-Sea

Daniel Smeu-Mare, The Julie Richardson Nursing Home, Banbury

Dawn Lyon, Roseway House Care Home, Jarrow

Diane Lewis Croft, Westhaven Care Home, Hoylake

Joy Miles, Redannick House, Truro

Marlon Munar, Roselands Residential Home, Rye

Tracy Walters, Moorend Place Care Centre, Sheffield

Care Employer of the Year

Aria Care Home, Newport Care UK, Colchester

Connaught Care Group, Havant

Nexus Care Services, Sutton Coldfield

Unique Homecare Services, Garstang

Best Initiative In Care Award

Bandrum Nursing Home, Fife

Cambridge Nursing Home, London

Ford Place Nursing Home, Thetford

Hollins Park, Macclesfield

Llesiant Delta Wellbeing Community Response Service, Llanelli

Maple Memory Centre – Brandon Park Nursing Home and Aspen Memory

Centre – Horkesley Manor Care Home

St John’s House, Norwich

Care Group of the Year

Black Swan Care Group, Norwich Care UK, Colchester

Cornerstone Healthcare Group, Waterlooville

Elizabeth Finn Homes, London

Lidder Care Group, Mansfield

Minster Care Group, Harrow

Rotherwood Healthcare, Mountsorrel

Stow Healthcare Group, Bury St Edmunds

Care Team of the Year

Broadlands Residential Home, Lowestoft

Haslingden Hall Care Home, Rossendale

Littleport Grange, Ely

Lydiate Lodge, Batley

Melford Court Care Home, Sudbury

Washington Lodge Nursing Home, Washington

Whittington Care Home, Chesterfield

National Care Home of the Year

The winners of the regional categories will automatically be entered for the National Care Home of the Year Award

Operator acquires two Moray homes

PARKLANDS has formally acquired two Moray care homes, with its managing director pledging to improve standards and provide a better living environment for residents.

Weston View in Keith and Wakefield House in Cullen have now been incorporated into the Parklands group, six months after their former owner Craigard Care Limited suddenly went into administration.

The move ensures continuity of care for almost 70 residents and safeguards around 80 jobs across the two homes.

Ron Taylor, managing director of Parklands Care Homes said: “Our formal acquisition of Weston View and Wakefield House ends a period of uncertainty for both homes – for the residents, their loved ones and the employees.

“Since March we have been working with the administrators to secure

the long-term future of these homes and I am delighted they have now been incorporated into the Parklands group.

“Keith and Cullen are very much part of our Moray heartland, and I am pleased that we have been able to

come to an agreement that ensures continuity of care for residents, gives peace of mind to relatives and safeguards dozens of local jobs.

“We look forward to working with the teams at Weston View and Wakefield House to improve care

standards and provide a better living environment for residents. Both homes are so important to the communities they serve, and we are determined to elevate them to a higher standard.”

Parklands recently announced a £1million improvement plan for the two homes.

At Wakefield House, the operator plans to widen the pathway and entrance to the home to improve access for people with reduced mobility, create a new sunroom extension to deliver a larger communal space, upgrade laundry facilities, create a new hairdresser and improve staff changing facilities.

And at Weston View there are plans to introduce a new café, doubling as an event space, create a more welcoming entrance area, expand the home’s four day rooms and add balconies on the first floor to provide residents with outdoor space.

Weston View in Keith.

Lamont Johnson is delighted to confirm the recent completed sale of St Nectans Residential Care Home, located in the charming coastal retirement town of Bexhill-on-Sea.

The building itself has early 20th century origins and enjoys a very convenient setting in a quiet residential avenue, close to the sea front. Presently registered for 35, with 34 bedrooms all having ensuite facilities and with the home having a current CQC rating of “Good”.

The Home has been sold on behalf of Patrick Finn of St Nectans Residential Care Home Limited, and acquired by Mr Gagan and Mrs Suki Lamba, who also operate a Domiciliary Care business in Dartford

Gortacharn Residential and Nursing Home in Lisnaskea has been acquired by Northern Ireland based Dunluce Healthcare. This latest addition to the operator’s portfolio will provide up to 55 residents with care in a modern, purpose-built facility. Dunluce Healthcare will continue to employ the 70 members of staff currently working at the home. Chief executive Ryan Smith said: “We are thrilled to have acquired Gortacharn Residential and Nursing Home as we strive to provide first-class care to residents across Northern Ireland. We are a dynamic and locally owned company that is committed to placing residents and their families at the heart of everything we do, not only meeting their needs but exceeding them. We are looking forward to meeting with residents and their families and welcoming them to Dunluce Healthcare.”

Group plans £1m investment

PARKLANDS Care Homes has unveiled a £1million improvement plan for two Moray facilities ahead of their imminent transfer to the group.

The operator was appointed to manage Wakefield House and Weston View in March after Craigard Care Limited went into administration. Parklands is expected to formally acquire the two homes in the coming weeks.

In the meantime the care group, which this year marks 30 years of providing care in Moray, has submitted plans to Moray Council to upgrade both sites.

Ron Taylor, managing director of Parklands Care Homes, said: “The investment we are making and the improvements we are proposing are all designed to create a better living environment for residents, in line with the latest guidelines from the Care Inspectorate.

“When we were appointed to manage these homes we set out our intention to deliver the highest standards of care; that applies not only to the excellence of care we offer but to the quality of the living environment.

“Both homes require significant investment in order to bring them up to the Parklands standard.

“We hope to make an announcement on the long-term future of Wakefield House and Weston View in the coming weeks.

“In the meantime, these necessary improvements signal our commitment to provide quality care

and a comfortable living environment for residents.”

The biggest changes will be made at Wakefield House in Cullen, built around the mid 19th century and converted into a care home in 1992. It currently has capacity for 30 residents.

The proposed improvements are required in order to satisfy current Care Inspectorate guidelines, which cannot be accommodated within the existing layout of the building. On the ground floor, major improvements include widening the pathway and entrance to the home to improve access for people

with reduced mobility. Existing bay windows at the front of the building will be replaced with a new sunroom extension, creating a larger communal space to comply with current Care Inspectorate guidelines. The existing single storey extension at the side of the property will be replaced with a larger extension providing new staff changing facilities.

The new extension will match the appearance of the existing building. Much of the work will involve alterations to internal walls and partitions to provide upgraded laundry facilities, additional WCs and an additional assisted bathroom. A new hairdresser and an additional en-suite bedroom will also be created on the first floor. A new lift will improve access to bedrooms at the front of the home.

At Weston View in Keith, which has capacity for 40 residents, Parklands plans to create a new café on the ground floor that will also serve as an event space for parties, activities and concerts. The internal foyer will be enhanced to create a more welcoming entrance area and Weston View’s four-day rooms will be expanded to create more space for residents.

New doors at ground floor will provide improved access to the landscaped gardens. Balconies will be added on the first floor to provide residents with outdoor space, in accordance with Care Inspectorate guidance.

Albert House Nursing Home, Weston–Super–Mare

SPECIALIST business property adviser Montane Care has completed the sale of Albert House Nursing Home in Weston-Super-Mare.

Albert House Nursing home comprises of 38 single bedrooms with 100 per cent en-suite facilities. The business had been in our clients’ ownership for 27+ years.

Adrian and Sally Esland said: “I was recommended to Anthony by a friend and existing operator.

“We had no hesitation in allowing Anthony to sell our business with Montane Care.

“In a short period of time Anthony

found multiple buyers during an intense period of negotiating and introducing existing operators Luke Venn and Cheryl Lawrence allowing our future retirement.”

Our clients added: “The level of service was excellent throughout the sale process: you have shown great patience and cooperation.

“Upon completion it has been a great relief to finally achieve what we have been working towards, it was an overwhelming but very rewarding experience.

“I would recommend you and the company to others due to the

professionalism and reliable service.

“I appreciate everything you have done in helping us achieve our future retirement, without your help this would not have been possible”.

In addition, our purchasers said: “We are delighted to have acquired Albert House Nursing Home. We can’t thank Anthony enough for his professional diligence and support during the acquisition process.

“We would certainly use Montane Care again instantly for any future acquisitions.

“We are very excited to add Albert House to our portfolio of homes in

England and are looking forward to continuing the excellent level of care delivered on a day-to-day basis to the residents of the home.”

Anthony Rae, director of Montane Care, said: “It it was a pleasure to achieve multiple offers in a short period of time by selecting existing operators with proven funding.

“Montane Care has expert local and national coverage with disappointed buyers seeking to acquire similar businesses”.

If you are contemplating selling or would like to know the value of your business call Anthony Rae on 07546 932811.

Ron Taylor

In

The challenges of winter for the sector

WINTER, it seems, is just around the corner, with all the challenges for health and social care that that annually poses.

As I write this, the temperature outside is around 26 degrees as we enjoy a mini September heatwave. But Christmas puddings and mince pies are in the shops so that can only mean that autumn and winter are on the way.

Winter is always difficult in care settings. It is a time when all sorts of sicknesses – not least seasonal flu – take a hold.

That poses extra challenges in keeping our residents and homecare clients safe and well and also robs us of staff as they fall victim to the various ailments going around too.

Aside from the challenges within our own care settings, we also have to contend with rising demand from hospitals.

Wards fill up during winter, adding to the pressure on hospitals to discharge folk back into the community in a timely manner to maintain bed capacity.

That can only be done if there are sufficient care packages available in the community to look after those people and my fear is that there might not be for winter 2023-24.

In January this year it was reported that 14,000 people were stuck in hospital beds largely because there were insufficient care packages available to allow them to be discharged.

Things didn’t improve much when the weather got better. Figures released in July revealed that there were still an average of 12,334 hospital beds in England occupied by people ready to be discharged.

As those numbers rise again this winter, heaven help us.

Add into the mix growing concern about a new strain of Covid and you can see why care providers would be worried about the arrival of winter.

A lack of care packages available is not the only reason people can’t be discharged but it is certainly a big contributing factor.

We know from the Homecare Association that homecare providers cannot get the staff they need to cope with rising demand – vacancies in that part of the sector were at 13 per cent this summer – more than four times the national job vacancy average. And we know that the number of care and

Group undertakes sale and leaseback to fund plans

SIMPLY Care Group UK, a specialist developer and operator of care homes, has completed a forward funding deal for two flagship assets in Bury St Edmunds and Dublin for a combined sum of £40m (€46.8m), equating to a net deal yield of 5.2 per cent.

The two sites, which are currently under construction, will be leased by Morar Living upon completion in 2024 on 30-year terms.

The funds will be used to support Simply UK’s ongoing development plans throughout the UK and Europe.

The group, which has invested around £250m in the sector in the past two years, is currently targeting a portfolio of 4,000 beds.

Thomas Meany, projects officer at Simply UK, said: “Given the UK’s ageing demographics and a historic lack of public investment in later living, we continue to see huge potential in the care home sector.

“This further backing from a major institutional investor is an endorsement of our vision and a significant boost to our growth plans.

“These are flagship assets for the group, with the site in Dublin representing our first project outside of the UK and in a market in which we have strong relationships and see future opportunities.

“Bury St Edmunds is an area where we have already built a strong presence and are actively looking to expand our operations. Our product fits well into this region in which our ventures to date have been well received.”

Operating under the Morar Living and the Portland Care brands, Simply UK currently has a portfolio of 17 operational homes, offering some 1,230 beds and provides a range of long-term, short-term care for young learning disabilities to elderly dementia, palliative and respite care.

nursing home beds is falling – the sector lost 191 care homes in 2022, a loss of 1,033 care home beds.

Now nobody expects Covid to be as much of a threat as it was three years ago but alongside flu it could still add significantly to hospital bed occupancy levels.

Hospitals are under enormous pressure, with a record 7.6m people on waiting lists, the threat of further doctor strikes and long waiting times for emergency treatment.

The Government has reacted by announcing an extra £200m to ease pressure on hospitals and, drum roll please, an extra £40m for social care. That £40m is to improve social care capacity and help the sector to free up hospital beds.

Welcome as this money is, my fear is that it will, as previous sums of investment have, fail to reach the frontline of social care delivery.

Furthermore, that £40m won’t go very far amongst those eligible for a share.

Another sticking plaster, a tiny handout to grab some headlines and distract the public from the fact that the Government is simply not addressing the serious issues in social care.

The sector needs billions, not millions, as part of a reform that will give care to the 1.6m who currently can’t access it and prepare for a future that is expected to need a further 445,000 posts by 2035 to cope with rising demand.

With winter coming and another dose of Covid likely, it seems inevitable that our sector will be tested to the limit and the frailties of social care exposed again.

When the news headlines scream that record numbers of winter patients are stuck in hospital beds with no care packages available, nobody should be surprised.

Montrose Care Home

The property is located in the desirable town of Dorchester in Dorset and is a detached and substantially extended care home which enjoys an excellent reputation.

The property stands in a plot of 0.4 acres with attractive gardens providing a variety of seating areas for residents.

Currently registered for 22 (care home only) and with a CQC rating of overall good, there are 22 bedrooms with 14 benefiting from en-suite facilities, a shaft lift to all resident’s areas and an owners second floor apartment. The property is management operated and has been acquired by a wellregarded local operator.

Paul Burford, Director who handled the sale commented, “Following a highly confidential marketing campaign, we were able to source an ideal buyer for this home and no unnecessary disruption occurred during either the marketing campaign or the transaction which was completed without fuss.”

Walton Healthcare Property Consultants are delighted to announce the sale of Montrose Care home in Dorchester to a local operator.

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

Mike Padgham

New Care has appointed Charlotte Sherrocks to the role of home manager at its recently opened Grappenhall Manor care centre in Grappenhall, Warrington. In her new role as manager, Charlotte takes responsibility for the smooth day-to-day running of the home ensuring the highest standards of care are delivered by a warm, friendly and compassionate team in a safe and comfortable environment that protects the health and wellbeing of all residents and their visitors. Working with her team of 80 nurses and carers, she will implement personalised care plans for each of the home’s residents, ensuring their individual needs, priorities and preferences are met. Delivering services in a safe and effective manner will also be key to Charlotte’s new role, ensuring Grappenhall Manor remains compliant with infection control and prevention procedures and all Care Quality Commission guidelines.

A devoted member of an Oldbury care home has just been appointed as its new registered home manager after 10 years of service. Kam Kaur has worked at Newbury Manor for a decade, initially joining as a care assistant in 2013. Captivated by the warm and welcoming environment, Kam quickly became a valued member of the team and was soon promoted to senior carer. In this role, she ensured the safety and wellbeing of residents while maintaining high standards of care. Recognising Kam’s potential, Diane, the registered home manager at the time, encouraged her to pursue a nursing assistant role and supported her in gaining confidence and knowledge. Under Diane’s guidance, Kam achieved her Level 5 qualification in health and social care.

Mike Turner has been appointed as the new chair of The Abbeyfield Society. Mike has been a trustee on the Abbeyfield Board since September 2021. Mike is an experienced Board director, having held senior roles within the infrastructure, commercial as well as the social housing and retirement living sectors. He has particular specialisms in strategic planning, asset management, procurement and operational delivery within regulated markets. He is a non-executive director of Ian Williams Limited, one of the UK’s largest property services companies, having been a board director for over 20 years. Mike is also an executive director of the National Housing Maintenance Forum and chair of the NHMF Service Providers Forum.

Midlands home care specialists Nexus Care Services has promoted Teresa Burton and Rachael Woo to the roles of operations manager. Both bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills to their new positions. Teresa and Rachael are no strangers to the Nexus Care Services family, having been part of the team for many years. Their intimate understanding of the company culture and mission makes them ideal choices to spearhead the company’s client care and support requirements. In their new roles, Teresa and Rachael will oversee a wide array of responsibilities, including client care coordination and support. They will work closely with Nexus’ senior carers, auxiliary nurses, and an experienced team of field carers to ensure the highest standards of care are consistently met.

Somerset dementia care home, Camelot House and Lodge, has welcomed a new manager whose husband also manages one of the four homes run by Camelot Care. While Zillah Oakes, who has been managing a 66 bed nursing home in Exeter since 2019, takes over in Wellington, her husband Graham is at the helm of the group’s newest home, Chestnut Lodge, which opened in April in the couple’s home town of Yeovil. Zillah, 49, has taken over the role of manager at Camelot House and Lodge from Sam Paddon who remains a key member of the leadership team after seven very successful years managing the Wellington home. Zillah started her career as a care assistant in a nursing home straight from school, then studied at Bournemouth University, graduating in 2003 with a BSc in clinical nursing, and has been working as a registered manager since 2019.

Meallmore Ltd has appointed Gavin Manson (left) and Martyn Everett to its Board of Directors in non-executive roles. Gavin is currently non-executive director of Unbound Group PLC and until June was chairman of Hostmore PLC. His previous experience includes being chief financial and operating officer of Electra Private Equity PLC and holding finance director roles at Thomas Cook Group PLC and Premier Farnell PLC. Martyn is a seasoned professional, with extensive experience leading strategic assignments for businesses in the publicly quoted, private equity and public sectors. He is currently non-executive director at Stewart Milne Group, as well as non-executive director and chairman of the Audit Committee at Interserve Group. His previous roles include chairman of Mar City PLC and Redhall Group PLC, and executive chairman of Whitworths Group.

Two new non-executive directors have been appointed to Anchor’s board. Elizabeth Froude has been in the housing sector for almost 20 years and worked for large and complex organisations in several parts of England. She is currently group chief executive at Platform, which operates coast to coast through the Midlands. Fred Angole is finance director and deputy chief executive of YMCA St Paul’s Group, a supported housing provider that specialises in providing accommodation and wellbeing services to vulnerable young Londoners. He is also a non-executive board member and chair of the audit and risk committee at Notting Hill Genesis Housing Association and holds a similar position at Newlon Housing Trust. Fred is a qualified accountant with more than 30 years’ experience in the social housing sector, as a regulator, finance executive and non-executive director.

One of Scotland’s leading care facilities has announced the appointment of a new specialist that will further improve its high-quality dementia services. Elaine Vallance has been promoted to head of lifestyle at Cramond Residence, bringing more than six years of expert care knowledge to the home’s lifestyle team. Elaine, who joined Cramond Residence 15 months ago, will organise a wide range of activities designed to bring meaningful socialisation to residents – a major factor in treating dementia patients. She said: “I’m passionate about delivering the best possible quality of care to our residents during their golden years. I love spending time with our residents, and I am lucky to now head up an incredible team who always give their best to ensure that the standard of care we deliver is second to none.”

New franchisee focuses on delivering outstanding care

STEVE Elliott has become the Walfinch franchisee and managing director for the Hampstead and Camden branch.

With an emphasis on providing tailored home-based care for every client, Steve is committed towards achieving an outstanding service.

Steve, who originally started his working life as a frontline carer, said: “I’ve worked in the care sector for almost 20 years, starting as a carer before progressing into various manager positions.

“I then moved to Walfinch, initially as registered manager for two branches, including the Hampstead and Camden office, so when the opportunity arose to take it over, it felt too good to miss.”

Franchisees gain immediate access to Walfinch’s proven business model, launch plan, optimised operating procedures, systems and quality standards, business guidance from its expert franchisor team, including CEO Amrit Dhaliwal, ongoing training and access to a network of likeminded franchisees.

Walfinch has also invested in technology to provide franchisees with a dedicated CRM system and app to help them efficiently roster visits and manage client information.

Steve added: “Having been a carer,

I know the importance of providing friendly, reliable and personalised care to each and every person we meet. My aim is to create a hyperlocal, outstanding service that is known for its truly caring approach.

“I ultimately want those living locally, who may need homecare of any kind, to think of Walfinch. With the established systems, processes and support from the franchisor, I feel I can completely focus on achieving this aim.”

Amrit added: “The demand for home-based care continues to grow and franchisees have a fantastic opportunity to establish a successful business, which also allows them to give back to their local community with access to such a valuable service.

“I would like to extend a warm welcome to Steve and look forward to working with him to expand the reach of the branch across Hampstead, Belsize Park, Camden, Willesden and the wider NW postcode area.”

A Hull care home that specialises in the provision of dementia care has announced the appointment of a new manager. With a strong background in health and social care, Joycelyn Tsekpo brings a wealth of experience to Wilton Lodge, having worked extensively in both the NHS and the social care sector for over 15 years. During her career, Joycelyn has progressed through various positions, including senior care assistant and deputy manager. Most recently, Joycelyn was the manager of Alderson House Care Home in Bridlington. With her extensive experience and expertise, Joycelyn complements the existing team at Wilton Lodge and provision of high quality, person-centred care. She said: “It’s not just a job here; it feels like working with family, and I am proud to be part of such a dedicated and talented team.”

Service excellence continues as hallmark of Gainsborough Specialist Bathrooms

Understanding design

Bathrooms can potentially pose a risk to residents and carers with slip and fall hazards possible across all spaces. Tackling this challenge can be made easier by procuring design skills from proven specialists in the accessible arena, such as Gainsborough.

Not only does its team of bathroom designers employ the latest innovations through ArtiCAD, Gainsborough also leverages over three decades of clinical understanding in terms of user needs.

Price not always the point

Profitability continues to become increasingly squeezed as overheads rise and client affordability falls. These market conditions can naturally dictate a trend towards cheaper, lower quality bathing solutions – but is that sensible?

Will that investment provide long-term dividends? Prudent procurement departments will instead choose higher value baths that last.

Packaging peace of mind

Efficient FM relies on a roster of trusted suppliers who deliver dependable equipment and responsive support.

Product specialists who deliver in this respect tend to provide equally

robust warranties and servicing, such as Gainsborough. Its choice of service packages with LOLER testing adds value to the proposition as managers are able to tailor provision according to the demands on their equipment.

Higher hygiene

Gainsborough remains at the forefront of hygiene developments with its integrated BioCote technology. Present as a constitute part of the GRP manufacturing process, this silver-ion additive ensures up to 99.99 per cent of microbes cannot exist on a treated bath surface. With infection control an absolute top priority not just for care, but to avoid the commercial crisis caused by viral outbreaks, any complementary solution such as BioCote is a welcome addition.

Frontline testimonials

Ed Riches, support services manager for Ardale care homes, has worked with Gainsborough baths for several

years. Responsible for facilities management at locations such as Potters Grange in Hertfordshire, he said: “Ardale works with Gainsborough as we believe they are one of the leaders in this sector and provide dependable solutions and service. We, as a care provider, always want to be the best and so therefore we install the best.”

Think beyond baths

The best choice tends to be the considered choice. Gainsborough represents that choice in assisted bathing solutions for care homes and rehabilitation facilities. This specialist manufacturer has prowess across both product and service; innovation and excellence that results in better care, performance and long-term ROI. Cost cutting can be achieved by purchasing cheaply, but that’s not the smart way.

Call 01527 400 022, email info@gainsboroughbaths.com or visit www.gainsboroughbaths.com #SustainableSpecialistBathing

Forbes’ laundry consultants help care homes optimise savings and operations

WHEN looking for a commercial laundry solution, Forbes Professional stands out as a leading provider with its client-centric approach and unparalleled expertise.

At the heart of their success is a consultative methodology that ensures every client receives a laundry rental solution tailored to their specific needs.

Forbes Professional delivers comprehensive service packages with inclusive delivery, installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance, to ensure a hassle-free experience for care sector clients.

Forbes’ consultative approach also enables them to ensure that care homes can truly optimise both savings and efficiency.

By providing solutions that extend beyond the surface, Forbes empowers clients to make informed decisions that have a profound impact on their operations and bottom line.

Their consultants deliver detailed calculations of cost projections, with an emphasis on the importance of whole life cost analysis.

Whilst rental relinquishes clients of the burden of large upfront payments, Forbes Professional recognises that making informed decisions goes beyond looking at initial expenses and procurement or rental prices.

Their team educates clients on energy-efficient solutions, exemplified by the remarkable 70 per cent energy savings achievable with heat pump dryers compared to standard condenser dryers.

To underscore the advantages of Forbes’ strategy, their analysis for a new client recently resulted in a staggering projected running cost saving of £1m throughout the

contract’s duration.

Forbes’ meticulous approach translates into not only cost savings but also environmental responsibility, as energy-efficient equipment contributes to a greener footprint.

Their dedication to creating value for clients by optimising efficiency and minimising costs is a testament to their industry leadership.

Choosing Forbes Professional

means opting for more than just laundry solutions; it’s a commitment to a partnership that prioritises specific needs, long-term benefits, and sustainability. In an era where sustainability, practicality and financial prudence are paramount, Forbes’ consultative approach and focus on holistic value, delivers transformative solutions to care homes across the UK.

For more than three decades Gainsborough has not just expertly manufactured specialist care baths, it has provided a 360-degree service proposition. But what advantage does that give care home facilities managers? In this article we explore a selection of topics which highlight why a holistic service is critical to balance high quality care with financial efficiency.

Care