Caring UK December 2019 by Script Media

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December 2019

The Number One magazine for the care sector

Ludlow care home is big winner at ceremony

Study looks at improving life of residents THE University of Hertfordshire is leading a National Institute for Health Research funded four-year study to improve how researchers, health and social care services can use existing data to improve the care and quality of life for care home residents, families and staff. More than £2.2million has been awarded for the ‘Developing research resources and minimum data set for care homes’ adoption and use’ study which will address the need to develop robust systems that support how all the different services and individuals (e.g. care staff, NHS professionals, family, regulators, social services) work together for residents’ benefit. The research will review how current health and social care systems work, what “good” looks like, explore the evidence on how to integrate data and test what a minimum dataset would need to be the key resource for all those working in and for care homes. Claire Goodman, Professor of Health Care Research, NIHR Senior Investigator at the University of Hertfordshire and the lead investigator, said the findings have the potential to deliver a stepchange in how we understand the needs of the care home population. She added: “We rely on care homes to provide care and support to some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Care homes are valued

partners to the NHS providing almost all our long-term care for frail older people. “A more consistent approach is needed to support integrated working and ensure that planning for future needs of residents is based on the best evidence. By bringing together existing data systems, creating a minimum data set and further researching care home residents’ needs, we can make recommendations likely to improve residents’ quality of life. “Long-term continuing care for older people is principally provided by care homes, with approximately 420,000 people in England and Wales living in a care home. Residents and staff rely on the NHS for medical care and the role of social care is gaining recognition as an essential part of care provision for this ageing population. “This underlines the need to develop reciprocal systems of working between the NHS and care homes. Our aim is to create new ways of working and doing research in and with care homes, so that the outputs benefit not only the researchers, but also the residents.” The study will bring together 12 other institutions working collaboratively to develop reciprocal systems of working between the NHS and care homes that optimise current provision and research on its effectiveness.

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A ballroom dance group from a Nottingham care home has hit the dance floor with Strictly Come Dancing’s Flavia Cacace to perfect its moves. Residents from Fairway View in Bulwell have been dancing together for six months. Formed by carer Judy Sherwood the group took to the dance floor to perform at the opening of Ideal Carehomes’ latest facility, Woodthorpe Lodge, in Loughborough. Entertaining visitors, including guest of honour Flavia, the group performed a waltz. They were then lucky enough to get some top dance tips from the star herself.

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HENDRA House has been crowned the UK’s best care home at the Caring UK Awards 2019. The Ludlow care home won both National Care Home of the Year and Regional Care Home of the Year Midlands and Wales at the awards, held at Leicester’s Athena venue in the middle of November. The home is owned and run by husband and wife Vince and Gill Burmingham. The awards, organised by Script Events in partnership with Caring UK and headline sponsor Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank PLC, celebrated the success of winners in more than 20 categories. The evening was hosted by actor Dean Andrews – best known for his role as DS Ray Carling in the BBC drama series Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes – and was attended by more than 400 guests. Event director Judith Halkerston added: “All our winners have had an arduous journey to this point – the standard of entries was very strong and every facility that walked away with an award should be extremely proud. “Our awards’ night was an amazing celebration of the care industry – being shortly before Christmas many of the homes used the occasion as their Christmas party and it was lovely to see everyone having a great time.” Full round-up starts on page 23.

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Home hosts professional life drawing class for residents WITH several talented artists living at the home and strong interest in all things artistic among the residents, the team at Care UK’s Sherwood Grange recently offered a very different kind of activity. Led by a professional tutor and making use of an experienced model more used to posing for professional artists, the team hosted a life drawing class with every sinew and muscle on display for residents to sketch. Home manager Rick Mayne said: “Most people expect life in a care home to be a certain way – but we’re keen to ensure there are no limitations and every day can be different and fun. “Life in our care home is all about helping people to enjoy more independent and fulfilling lives – and today that meant expanding people’s experiences and doing something out of the ordinary. “It’s fair to say we’ve never had a nude model at the home before – but based on

the response we may well do again.” The residents are no strangers to artistic endeavours having already taken a trip to France to enjoy sketching and watercolour painting by a lake and there have been several (clothed) life drawing classes in the home and at the nearby Dorich House Museum.

So when they asked for the opportunity to draw a nude model, the team immediately set to work to organise one. Residents were asked what kind of model they preferred, and almost unanimously landed on a ‘nice handsome man’. A professional model – more used to working in artist’s studios – and meeting

the residents’ criteria, was employed for the afternoon to allow residents to get in touch with their creative side and bring his nude form to life. As part of the session, the residents at the home were given expert tuition from professional artist Robin Rutherford who teaches life drawing in a number of locations. A glass of sparkling wine helped add to the sense of occasion. The unusual activity took place to mark the end of a month-long festival that Care UK has sponsored, The Big Draw, which promotes drawing as a tool for learning, expression and invention. More than 60 of Care UK’s homes have taken part and, as the team and residents at Sherwood Grange have a special love for painting and drawing, it made sense for them to do something memorable to mark the end of the Big Draw festival.

At Script Media, we try to get things right but occasionally, we make mistakes. If you have a complaint about a story featured in our magazine or on our website, please, in the first instance, contact us by email: dm@scriptmedia.co.uk We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice as demanded by the Independent Press Standards Organisation. For details on the code and what to do should you be unsatisfied with the way we handle your complaint, please visit www.ipso.co.uk

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www.caring-uk.co.uk Advertising Healthcare Product Manager: Bev Green Tel: 01226 734288 Email: bg@scriptmedia.co.uk Assistant Sales Manager: Tracy Stacey Tel: 01226 734480 Email: cuk3@scriptmedia.co.uk National Sales Executive: Sales and Marketing Director: Tony Barry Tel: 01226 734605 Email: tb@scriptmedia.co.uk Publishers Script Media 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS. Email: info@caring-uk.co.uk Editorial Group Editor: Judith Halkerston Tel: 01226 734639 jh@scriptmedia.co.uk Group Production Editor: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 734407 dm@scriptmedia.co.uk Studio Manager: Stewart Holt Tel: 01226 734414 sth@scriptmedia.co.uk Database enquiries to: 01226 734695 E-mail: circulation@ scriptmedia.co.uk Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publishers do not accept liability for error, printed or otherwise, that may occur. Follow us on Twitter @caringuk

CARINGNEWS

Care home’s director is banned for four years

Home’s residents have their cake and eat it A RESTAURANT experience with a special afternoon tea on the menu was the icing on the cake for Edward Moore House Residential Care Home residents. With many of the residents unable to easily get out and about, staff of the Gravesend care home decided to host a special afternoon tea experience for them and their loved ones. With the dining room transformed into a restaurant and the finest china in use, cake stands were filled with finger sandwiches, scones and dainty cakes, before being brought out to the

hungry guests. Deputy manager Melanie Martin said: “Afternoon tea is a really big thing nowadays, but for our residents it’s not always easy for them to go out with their relatives because of the care they require, transport etc. so we decided to host our own afternoon tea within the home. “It was a great success, and everyone had a lovely time. The feedback was that it was a really special afternoon. “We are already planning another one for Christmas.”

THE director of Millfield Lodge Care Home has been disqualified after her business breached health and safety regulations, putting residents at risk. Anita Ram, of Stevenage, started running Millfield Lodge Care Home in Gamlingay, Cambridgeshire, as a sole trader business in the early 1990s. It was incorporated in 2004, but only began formally trading in July 2014. In April 2017, the home was inspected by the Care Quality Commission and rated ‘Requires Improvement’ after breaches of regulations relating to the safeguarding of people, their care records, and reporting of incidents to the CQC were discovered. In July and August of the same year, further, unannounced, inspections were carried out. Inspectors found that Millfield Lodge Care Home Limited was in breach of six regulations under the Health and Social Care Act 2008. At the August inspection the service was rated as ‘Inadequate’. They resolved that Anita as director was not a fit and proper person to carry on the service, as she had failed to co-operate with the nursing agency that ran the service in the home, removed records and equipment, and prevented access to people’s finances, among other concerns. Inspectors also uncovered that not all residents in the home were being safely administered their medication,

with discrepancies between the amount of medication in stock and the amounts recorded as having been administered. Anita Ram had also failed to ensure the building met required fire safety standards, meaning residents were at risk. As a result of these concerns, the CQC applied to the courts to cancel Anita’s registration as a care home provider and close the home. Residents were safely moved from the home on August 10 2017 and the company ceased trading. Millfield Lodge Care Home Limited entered Creditors Voluntary Liquidation and liquidators were appointed in September 2017, before it was formally wound up in October. The liquidator’s report on the insolvency to the Insolvency Service triggered an investigation into the conduct of Anita. On September 30 the Secretary of State accepted a fouryear disqualification undertaking from her. Effective from October 21, Anita cannot be involved, directly or indirectly, in the promotion, formation or management of a company without court permission. David Brooks, chief investigator for the Insolvency Service, said: “The Insolvency Service will not hesitate to pursue the disqualification of any director whose conduct while in charge of such a business is assessed to pose a risk to the people under their care.”

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CARINGNEWS A homecare provider with more than 200 local offices has celebrated the 10-year work anniversary of its business development lead. Julie Gambrill began her time with Bluebird Care as the business development manager, and has supported the company, enabling them to flourish, thanks to her dedication, expertise and guidance. She said: “No day is the same, even after 10 years. It keeps me motivated knowing that I will come across a broad range of different tasks and challenges throughout the day, and it is extremely rewarding when I have overcome and completed them.”

Group marks International Day of Older Persons BOROUGH Care marked the International Day of Older Persons by celebrating the rich lives of residents at its 11 homes across Stockport. The International Day of Older Persons is a day to appreciate the contributions older people make to society. Dr Mark Ward, CEO of Borough Care, said: “During their interesting and full lives, many of our residents have made a very valuable contribution to both their local community and wider society. “Through their careers, volunteering

or interests they have helped shape the lives of others and have invaluable advice to give, from which we can all benefit.” “We passionately believe that a person’s life shouldn’t come to a standstill when they move to a care home. “We encourage our residents to share their experiences and continue to lead an active social life, if they wish, by organising a regular programme of activities and days out to suit all tastes.”

Provider’s carers are recognised at annual event

CARERS and nurses have been recognised for their performance and dedication at the Meallmore Staff Awards presented by singer and TV personality Michelle McManus. Members of staff from the group’s 23 care homes across Scotland came together at Perth Racecourse to celebrate a successful year and recognise employees who continue to improve the lives of residents and their family members. This year there were 13 award categories, including two new ones, which were the Mentor of the Year and the Meals Mean More Competition, celebrating the best chefs. More than 1,100 nominations were put forward by residents, their families, visiting professionals and staff. The company employs around 1,600 staff, all of whom were eligible for a nomination. Gerry Hennessey, managing director of Meallmore, said: “Celebrating success and recognising the hard work of all our staff is extremely important. “Our annual awards are always one of the highlights of the year as we can bring together our teams

from across the country to celebrate the outstanding performance and dedication from each member of staff. “I would like to congratulate all of our shortlisted nominations as well as our worthy winners. I would personally like to thank all our Meallmore staff who go above and beyond to provide the highest standards of care for our residents.” Winners were presented with a certificate, trophy and an iPad, with runners up receiving a certificate of recognition.

Award winners: Excellence in Support Services – Eamonn Doherty, The Oaks; Mentor of the Year – Andrew Rodden, Meallmore Lodge; Head Office and Field Based Support Team – Angela Paterson, Caulfield House; Meaningful Activities – Sam Dougan, Antonine House; Staff Newcomer – Megan McDougall, Bayview; Excellence in Dementia – Alana Dougan, Antonine House; Specialist Adult Care Worker – Sam Martin, Hilton Court; Nurse of the Year – Karen Sneddon, Ivybank House; Senior Care Worker of the Year – Vicky Kilgour, Culduthel; Manager of the Year – Suzanne Pitt, Hilton Court; Carer of the Year – Valerie MacLeod, Crimond House; Meals Mean More Competition – Paul O Brien, St Modans; Chairman’s Award – Julie-Anne Thomson, Bayview.

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Provider goes the extra mile

Resident completes cycle ride A RESIDENT has cycled the distance of Land’s End to John O’ Groats from the comfort of his care home in Crewe. Alan Gibbs, 75, used a static bike to complete the 1,407km cycle ride in the communal lounge of Cypress Court. He was supported along the way by the Mayor of Crewe and Andy Lewis, a local fitness trainer who runs weekly exercise classes at the home. Andy visited Alan three times a week to supervise him as he cycled between 11 and 12 miles during each session. Manager Bethuel Xaba said: “Andy

and I are both immensely proud of Alan for this remarkable achievement. “I am very grateful to Andy for the fantastic atmosphere and positive energy he has reinforced in the home.” Each route was meticulously planned using Google maps, with real landmarks visited “virtually” along the way. Andy and Alan even programmed in hills and slopes to make the journey more realistic. Alan was inspired to take up the challenge by his father-in-law who had cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats at the age of 65.

ONE of Edinburgh’s leading care and support providers has put provisions in place for its employees this winter to ensure levels of assistance across the city remain consistent for those in need over the festive period. Social Care Alba is providing all of its employees with a winter care package that will include a thermal cup so they are able to stay warm and hydrated during their working hours as well as reducing waste created from continued use of take-away cups. In addition to this, each of its carers will receive a gentle reminder to sign up for their annual flu vaccine, a portable battery charger for their phone, a pocket torch and a personal alarm all of which will be provided to support their own personal safety and wellbeing during the winter months. Nataly Wilson, founder of Social Care Alba, said: “Looking after our employees all year round is vital, however, Christmas and the festive season always poses additional challenges for us with bad weather, darker evenings and illness remaining top of the list of reasons why some people are unable to attend their clients and offer them the care and support that they need. “In order to help with these challenges, we have implemented a number of initiatives that have been

specifically designed to make the lives of our staff easier. We want to make sure that everyone working for us is very well looked after so that they are able to do their jobs effectively. “We will also be paying all of our carers double pay on Christmas Day and New Year’s day as we appreciate that these are quite unsociable day to be working. “There is also no public transport available during this period so we will be supplying drivers and taxis to help staff get to and from the clients’ homes. “We want to make things easier for our staff as we understand and appreciate how hard they work.” Social Care Alba was established to provide support to people living in their own home. The care and support is based upon core values underpinned by the Health & Social Care Standards. Its vision is one of person centred support, which incorporates values of dignity and respect, privacy and inclusion, choice and realising potential – as well as safety, equality and diversity. They are continuously looking to the future, planning ahead and anticipating future demands, thus allowing them to recruit, train and plan services in advance with the support and inclusion of staff.

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CARINGNEWS Advertiser’s announcement

How safe are your ratings? Volunteer Clive Iles with Deerhurst manager Lesley Hobbs.

Clive hits 35,000 hours

BRUNELCARE has honoured one of it’s longest serving volunteers with a certificate of recognition. Clive Iles, 83, has been volunteering at Deerhurst, a care home in Soundwell, for two decades. He started his volunteering journey in 1998 after his mother, who had been a resident at Deerhurst, passed away in the home. Clive’s main day-to-day duties can include administration, ordering supplies, dealing with deliveries and feeding back to employees and managers if anything needs to be taken care of in the care home. He said: “I absolutely love volunteering with Brunelcare, it keeps me busy and on my feet while I’m still able. I work with some fantastic people and really enjoy the social element of my role.

“I’ve spent over 35 years working in the Royal Mail sorting office so I’m used to being organised and being around lots of people.” Alongside being a volunteer for Brunelcare, Clive is also a qualified pilot and received his piloting license when he was 70. Lesley Hobbs, care home manager, added: “Life at Deerhurst wouldn’t be the same without any of our volunteers. Clive brings such a positive atmosphere to the office and the entire care home. “Things always seem to run a lot smoother with Clive around. He’s built some great relationships with the residents and their families and he’s definitely very popular at Deerhurst. We really appreciate all of his help. He’s been and will continue to be an absolute star.”

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THE published timescales of CQC inspections are quite familiar to providers. ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ up to 30 months, ‘Requires Improvement’ within 12 months, ‘Inadequate’ within six months. Perhaps less familiar is that, as against a target compliance of 90 per cent with these timescales, CQC performance was 81 per cent in 2017/18, but fell to 62 per cent in 2018/19 (page 28, 2019 annual report). As might be expected this deterioration from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Inadequate’ has triggered an action plan. CQC is currently, er, consulting on a proposal to introduce “targeted” inspections. These will follow up on warning notices or “to check that specific concerns are being dealt with”. They will not review the whole key question(s). They will not lead to a change in ratings. They will be published and relied on in decisions or proceedings. There is a deafening silence on whether factual accuracy response will be permitted. Given the poor adherence to timescales there is every reason to fear CQC’s aim will be merely to identify poor care at the expense

of recognition of improvements. Safety concerns addressed? Job done, byeee. The desire to see your published ratings rectified will wait for another day. And the safer your service is, the longer that wait will be. The legislation grants a broad discretion as to ratings methodology. Discretion must be exercised properly in law, and solely for the purpose for which it was granted. The Act provides that “The Commission must conduct reviews of the carrying on of the regulated activities, assess the performance of the service providers following each such review, and publish a report of its assessment”. We can say for certain that the discretion as to ratings methodology was not granted for the purposes of massaging the deteriorating performance statistics of the CQC HSC Professional provides consultancy at a fraction of the cost of solicitors, with fixed fees for standard work (response to draft inspection reports and proposed enforcement, requests for review of ratings); response to notices of proposal; compliance assessments; and provider information returns; for care homes and domiciliary care services.

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C ARING UK CONFERENCES 2019

We would like to thank all our exhibitors and delegates for their support at our Regional Care Providers Conferences this year, wishing you all a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year.

Events coming to your area in 2020 St Mellion

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CARINGNEWS

Lincolnshire’s Lord-Lieutenant opens Cloverleaf Care Home CLOVERLEAF Care Home in Lincoln, part of Tanglewood Care Homes, was officially opened by Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Mr Toby Dennis. More than 250 people including the home’s staff, residents and relatives celebrated the home’s official opening – a state-of-the-art 72-bed facility in Lincoln. The event was a joint celebration to commemorate the grand opening of Cloverleaf and mark 30 years of Tanglewood. The official opening was organised by members of staff from across the group who all contributed to tasks ranging from the décor to the catering at the Caribbean-themed event. Shirley Woods, registered manager, said: “We had a lovely day celebrating the official opening of the home with staff, residents, relatives and members of the community. “During the day we had a steel band perform a repertoire of songs and activities including face painting and balloon making to keep the children entertained. “There’s a real community feel amongst all of the team here at Tanglewood – and I’d like to thank each member of staff that helped with the event. “I’d also like to say a big thank you to Tanglewood founder and director Tracy Ann Shelbourn; she is very

Rogers House bids farewell

caring about the culture and values that Tanglewood upholds and it’s thanks to her that we were all able to enjoy this wonderful occasion together.” Cloverleaf Care Home opened in March this year and provides its residents with all levels of care including residential, nursing and dementia care. Inside the care home, there is a tavern, multiple social areas, two garden lounges, a hair salon and a

Bailgate-themed area to replicate the bustle and history of Lincoln’s famous shopping street. Cloverleaf was given its name by the late Norman Kent after Tanglewood ran a public naming competition last year. He chose the name because the word ‘leys’ means a piece of land set aside for grass or clover, and clover still grows near the home. Each care home is hosting its own individual event to celebrate Tanglewood’s pearl anniversary.

RESIDENTS and staff of Rogers House in Wigmore said an emotional goodbye when Janet Lucas retired after 24 years at the care home. Janet Lucas, 77, started her career as a carer at the Wigmore care home a couple of years after it opened, and went on to look after the day care residents. Despite her leaving her job at the home, Janet is keen to come back and spend time with the staff and residents as a volunteer. On her last day she was showered with cards, gifts and flowers, as she has become a much loved member of the team over the years for staff, residents and their families too. Home manager Jackie Miles added: “Janet has been an integral member of the team for many years and will be dearly missed. However, we are looking forward to welcoming her back as a volunteer.”

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Homecare provider rolls out free workshops to community HOME Instead Senior Care (East Devon & Exeter) is now part of the UK Parkinson’s Excellence Network. Launched in 2015, the network brings together health and social care professionals to improve services, increase expertise and engage effectively with people affected by Parkinson’s. Home Instead (East Devon & Exeter) directors and management undertook extensive training from Parkinson’s UK to become accredited trainers of Parkinson’s for their 100 CAREGivers and office staff, supporting people to live independently in their own homes in the East Devon & Exeter area. The multi-award-winning homecare provider is now delivering Parkinson’s workshops in the local area at no cost, offering specialist training to all CAREGivers, family carers and members of the community who may benefit. Vanessa McGlade, director of Home Instead Senior Care (East Devon & Exeter), said: “The number of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the UK is about 145,000 – that’s around one adult in every 350. “Parkinson’s UK are training professionals like physiotherapists and occupational therapists, and what makes Home Instead unique is

Julie Marish, community lead for Waitrose & Partners Sidmouth with Home Instead community liaison coordinator Gill Gegg and managing director Mark McGlade. that we are taking the training into the home-care environment and wider community. “We support a number of people living at home with Parkinson’s and this training and greater awareness has greatly improved our understanding of the needs of those living with Parkinson’s, and also that of their families and the carers, in order for us to provide the best

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possible person-centred care and support.” Home Instead (East Devon & Exeter) has rolled out a series of workshops and advice to the wider community including Waitrose & Partners in Sidmouth. This is in line with the Excellence Network’s aims to transform the care people with Parkinson’s receive, and work together to improve services,

increase expertise and engage effectively with people affected by Parkinson’s. Mark McGlade, managing director of Home Instead (East Devon & Exeter), added: “We are the only homecare provider in the UK with City & Guilds accreditation for dementia and ran a dementia workshop for some of the partners at Waitrose Sidmouth in September, covering many areas including understanding the different types of dementia, techniques to manage behaviours and customer service tips when supporting someone with dementia. The staff found it so useful that they invited us back to give Parkinson’s training. “As the first home care provider in the South West to have Parkinson’s Disease accredited training and as part of the UK Parkinson’s Excellence Network, we are now working in partnership with Waitrose & Partners in Sidmouth to provide workshops to raise awareness of dementia and Parkinson’s. “This will help the staff better understand how the conditions affect their customers so that they can provide improved services and an awareness and understanding of those suffering from these debilitating diseases.”

Home recognised after working with hospice ROYAL Star & Garter in Surbiton has received recognition for the quality of its end-of-life care. It has been awarded the coveted ‘Six Steps to Success in End of Life Care Programme for Care Homes’ after staff demonstrated great knowledge and practice of end-of-life care at the Home. The Six Steps course was delivered by Princess Alice Hospice in Esher and is endorsed by Skills for Care. It aims to enhance end-of-life care through facilitating a whole organisational approach and supporting and educating staff to develop their roles around their involvement in end of life care. Lead nurse Sylwia Pisarczyk and lead healthcare assistant Frency Diaz attended the workshops and successfully demonstrated the home to be embracing and implementing the Six Steps programme. The scheme is a holistic approach to providing care for people who are thought to have less than 12 months to live. It starts with discussions and care planning with the patients as end of life approaches, before moving on to coordination and delivery of highquality care. It ends with care in the last days of life and care after death. Pauline Shaw, director of care at the charity, said: “Supporting residents at the end of their lives is incredibly

Lead nurse Sylwia Pisarczyk and lead healthcare assistant Frency Diaz. important and I know staff feel it is a real privilege to consider the residents’ well-being at this time and to work closely with their families, providing sensitive, co-ordinated, loving care. “I’m delighted our Surbiton home has received the Six Steps award.” Following the successful running of the pilot project, Princess Alice Hospice will introduce its Six Steps as part of its own regular training schedule.

CARINGTRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

Accolades for care village

NOT-for-profit care village Belong Atherton has been recognised in Wigan and Leigh Hospice’s annual Hospice in Your Care Home Awards. The picked up two accolades including, for the fourth year running, the Family Nominated Staff Member of the Year, which once again was won by lead senior support worker Julia Cross. Belong also took home a partnership plaque for its ongoing engagement with Wigan and Leigh Hospice’s nursing training programme which gives nursing home staff the practical skills and knowledge to provide sensitive and compassionate end-of-life and palliative care. Belong support manager Nicola Johnstone said: “We are delighted to have been recognised in the awards. “We always strive to seek development opportunities to provide class-leading care and are proud to have completed four years with the nursing training programme at Wigan and Leigh Hospice.” Five more staff members from Belong Atherton were also nominated for awards including Olivia McCall, David Porter, Janet Tomlinson, Sam Pitchford and Sharon Parker.

Annual conference brings together people from across the sector BLUEBIRD Care held its annual conference at the De Vere Beaumont Estate in Windsor. Franchise owners joined the franchise support team and senior members of Bluebird Care to hear from sector leading experts, as well as the opportunity to network with a number of exhibitors. The theme of this year’s conference was ‘Driving Excellence’, with the senior team showcasing examples of what high quality care looks like in the network, as well as the importance of your people and how to recruit the best in care. Speakers included Colin Angel, policy director of United Kingdom Homecare Association; Jennifer Sheets, president and CEO of Caring Brands International and Interim HealthCare Inc; Sally Gunnell OBE and Colin Maclachlan. Managing director Yvonne Hignell said: “Our annual conference is an excellent way to celebrate a year of hard work from everyone across the network. “The franchise owners have ensured Bluebird Care has had another exceptional year and I am very proud to be leading such an inspirational group of people.” A gala dinner followed the main event where a variety of franchise awards were presented to those who have gone above and beyond in their

work over the past year.

Winners were: Founders Award – Bluebird Care Trafford, franchise owner Ian Helsby; Spirit of Bluebird Care – Bluebird Care Gosport, franchise owner Kat Thomas; Newcomer – Bluebird Care Gosport, franchise owner Kat Thomas; Spotlight of the Year – Bluebird Care Bournemouth, franchise owner’s Mel and Juliet Cohen; Limelight of the Year – Bluebird Care Chichester, franchise owner

Paul and Kate Barry; Franchise of the Year – awarded to the standout franchise from the Newcomer, Spotlight, Limelight awards - Bluebird Care Chichester, franchise owner Paul and Kate Barry; ‘Network’ Star of the Year – an award given to a member of the franchise support centre who has made the most contribution to franchisee engagement in the network – Julie Gambrill, business development manager lead.

Homecare provider Stop the churn and be encouraging young sure you are recruiting people to join them Advertiser’s announcement

with retention in mind By Scott Sherriden THE right people with the right values are out there and waiting to work for you, BUT you need to sort your recruitment process out first before you attract them. If there’s one thing we see time and time again at The Care Hub, it’s outstanding talent passing companies by. The reason? The companies are too slow to recruitment them. Speed really is the essence of successful recruiting. If you’re too slow or you have a multi-step recruitment process that involves long-winded application forms, travelling back and forth to complete DBS checks, shadow shifts etc., then you’re probably killing your chances of competing for talent. If you’re an owner, director or registered manager, should you be responsible for the recruitment process? Obviously, you may need to be involved in the interview or hiring decision but as for writing job adverts, managing all the troublesome and repetitive tasks, such as reading CVs, calling candidates, conducting

values-based recruitment interviews, and chasing no-show candidates – isn’t that a waste of your valuable time? A broken or badly structured recruitment process is responsible for over 75 per cent of the problems most of our clients have with securing the right staff. More often than not, owners and directors are not aware of this. The demand for talent is very strong. You need to change your thinking and your approach towards recruiting if you are to remain competitive in today’s market. So what should you do next? If you’re not getting the results then you need to look at delegating those duties. Maybe it’s time to leave it to the experts? The Care Hub are masters at this. Book a free consultation with the sector’s proven recruitment transformation experts, it’s guaranteed to save you time and money. Call 0330 335 8999 or email me on scott.sherriden@thecarehub.com n Scott Sherriden is managing director of The Care Hub.

LINCOLNSHIRE-based homecare provider Walnut Care at Home is on the hunt for dedicated young people to add to its award-winning team of more than 200 carers. According to newly released figures from the Department of Health and Social Care, 64 per cent of 18-34 year olds would consider a career in adult social care, with the sense of fulfilment that comes from caring for others the main reason cited. Chief executive Melanie Weatherley said: “We are actively recruiting people of all ages to join the Walnut Care family and we will be supporting all efforts to recruit younger people into the care profession. “This includes offering flexible working and providing opportunities to develop and grow and make care a career. “We will continue to invest in our workforce and ensure they receive recognition and reward for the work they do every day looking after our clients.” The survey of more than 2,000 adults is part of the Department’s ‘When you care, every day makes a difference’ recruitment campaign, which aims to inspire compassionate individuals to fill the 122,000 vacant roles across the sector.

Melanie Weatherley Although 1.5 million people currently work in health and social care in the UK, an ageing population means that an additional 580,000 workers will be needed by 2035. Furthermore, a large number of the current workforce – 385,000 – are 55 years of age or over, meaning they are likely to retire in the next 10 years. More young people with the right values need to join the sector to avoid a shortage, and to ensure that society’s most vulnerable are cared for.

CARINGNEWS

Residents enjoying rides on community rickshaw RESIDENTS at Fornham House care residence in Fornham St Martin, near Bury St Edmunds, are being treated to regular rides around the surrounding villages and countryside thanks to a charity providing rickshaw trips. Activities coordinator Amanda Rose, who joined the home in May, posted on social media asking if anyone in the community would be able to provide experiences to residents. Libbie Ranzetta from Bury St Edmunds Rickshaw, a charity which is supported by the local council, got in touch and offered rides on their rickshaw. The rickshaws are used in the local area to take people out and about to avoid isolation, and to transport tourists around Bury. Amanda keenly accepted the offer, and now Libbie and her team of volunteers visit the house every other Tuesday and as often as they can in between, taking residents out on the rickshaw, which benefits from a battery-powered motor to assist with the pedalling. Amanda said: “I am so thrilled with the success of this project; our residents absolutely love riding on the rickshaw and we are so grateful to Libbie, her trusty volunteers and the charity for supporting us in this way. “Different residents have a go each time and we pair-up people that haven’t been before with those that

Pippa Langhorne with resident Clifford Broughton and staff Clare Bradley, Michallo Goody and Sam Ryan.

Pippa sparkles at home have. We take groups of residents out on what we now call the ‘Rickshaw coffee drop’, which takes in a local farm shop and café, and it brings so much laughter and exhilaration to those who live here.” A ‘chatty chum’ also spends time with residents on or off the rickshaw, and those on board enjoy an off-road trail, as well as visiting the local farm shop and coffee shop.

BRITAIN’S Got Talent star Pippa Langhorne added some extra sparkle to a Great Wyrleycare home as elderly residents celebrated Disney day. The singer, who reached the semifinals of the top ITV talent show in 2011, visited Lakeview Care Home near Walsall for the special event. Dressed up as Belle from Beauty and the Beast in a bright yellow gown, Pippa delighted residents with songs such as “Beauty and the Beast” and “Belle”. She works as a professional singing Belle for princess parties held across the West Midlands but found fame

after singing opera on Britain’s Got Talent along with her dog Buddy, who would howl next to her. But Buddy stayed at home in Worcester for this event – with Pippa taking centre stage. Tracey York, business development lead at Alpha Health Care, which runs Lakeview, said: “All the residents had a great time watching this special visitor as many of them have watched the show and couldn’t wait to hear her beautiful voice.” All staff and residents were dressed in Disney characters and enjoying other themed activities across the day.

CARINGNEWS

Care sector fundraising ball raises £200,000

Care home celebrates BBC World Music Day FAIRMILE Grange in Christchurch invited a number of guests into the care home to join in with the celebrations to mark BBC World Music Day. BBC World Music Day is an annual event which aims to connect communities and generations across the UK. The theme of this year’s event was music and wellbeing. Over the course of the day the team at Fairmile Grange organised a range of activities for residents at the care home to enjoy. This included welcoming children from local childminders, Shining Stars and 2nd Home, who came in to sing, as well as The Land Girls, a professional entertainment singing

duo from Poole, who performed a range of 1950s and 1960s classics. The day ended with a performance from Fairmile Grange’s very own choir. Kim Butters, wellbeing manager of Fairmile Grange, said: “Everyone at Fairmile Grange had such a lovely time celebrating BBC World Music Day. Music and memory are a powerful connector. “Whether it’s traditional songs or the more modern hits, music has been proven to stimulate and bring back long-forgotten memories, especially for those with dementia. “It can also reduce stress, help maintain speech and language, and motivates people to get moving.”

THE second annual Care Sector Fundraising Ball raised £200,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society and The Care Workers Charity. More than 500 people attended the glittering fundraising event at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair. The special event hosted by MC and the original Stig from Top Gear, Perry McCarthy, featured a silent and live auction with many prizes and pledges donated by the care sector. Throughout the evening, guests also enjoyed entertainment from celebrity auctioneer Jonny Gould and comedian Kev Orkian and performances from Glam Slam, who performed songs from Motown, and dance act FroBacks. Speakers included founder of the Care Sector Ball and chair of Care England and Hallmark Care Homes’ Avnish Goyal, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society Jeremy Hughes and CEO of The Care Workers Charity Richard Muncaster, who spoke about the critical work they do and the impact these charities have had. Avnish said: “As well as raising such a significant amount of money, the event achieved its goal of raising awareness of the essential work of the Alzheimer’s Society and The Care Workers Charity. “I believe that it is also going some way towards uniting all parts of the sector, including operators, suppliers, as well trade associations, most

Comedian Kev Orkian, founder of the Care Sector Ball and chair of Care England and Hallmark Care Homes Avnish Goyal and MC and the original Stig from Top Gear, Perry McCarthy. of which were represented on the night. It is very exciting to see how many people are already asking to be involved next year.” Next year’s Care Sector Ball will be on Saturday September 26.

Advertiser’s announcement

Save money on medical consumables with bulk buy discounts ... LEADING UK supplier of essential medical supplies, MediSupplies, has expanded its range of bulk buy deals, allowing healthcare providers to make even more savings on the most commonly used medical consumables. Since its launch in 2009, MediSupplies has been providing care establishments with a cheaper alternative for medical supplies, which it achieves by maintaining long-standing relationships with manufacturers across the globe, as well as taking an online only sales approach. The organisation continually strives to drive down costs for healthcare organisations, with the bulk buy additions being the latest project to meet this objective. Facilities with appropriate storage can take advantage of the bulk buy range which now sees best sellers such as Clinell Universal Sanitising Wipes, couch rolls, Terumo & BD needles and syringes and Purell Advanced Hand Gel, joining the collection of disposable gloves. Thomas Andrews, marketing director at MediSupplies, said: “We have been successfully selling

disposable gloves by the case for some time, with many customers taking advantage of the savings to be made. “However, with increasing political and economic uncertainty, we have seen a noticeable increase in healthcare organisations looking to make bulk purchases to ensure care is not disrupted should there be any issues with the availability of essential goods now and in the future, which is why we have made arrangements to increase our bulk buy range to include even more of our most popular products.” In addition to bulk buy savings, MediSupplies also offers customers a wealth of benefits including free delivery to UK mainland addresses on orders over £65, next working day delivery on in-stock items ordered before 4.30pm and a 30-day no quibble guarantee. Thousands of clearly displayed independent and verified customer reviews from Trustpilot and eKomi are available to view on the MediSupplies website which act to provide new customers with peace of mind before trying MediSupplies as a supplier for the first time.

Home hosts care forum for LGBT community LOCAL authority commissioners, GPs and healthcare professionals from around the South East gathered at Ash Court Care Centre in Camden for an event examining the growing healthcare needs of an ageing LGBT population. Author and advocate Rebecca DeHavalland and Clive Blowes, HIV and Ageing Lead for the Terrence Higgins Trust, presented to the audience of care home staff, managers and commissioners on the specific needs faced by members of the LGBT community as they get older, and what can be done to provide dignified and respectful care. “Members of this community often face different healthcare issues to the wider community, from those living with HIV to how ageing affects a transgender person, and it is important that those providing care have a practical understanding of how this may differ from a conventional care scenario,” said

event organiser, manager Steven Anderson. “While the UK – and, as we heard from Rebecca, Ireland – has moved towards a more accepting and understanding culture, we need to recognise that care is often provided by people coming from different countries where LGBT issues are not as openly discussed. “The session proved hugely enlightening and inspirational for many of our staff, and this is crucial if we are to treat everyone who passes through our doors with the dignity they deserve.” From asking those being cared for about their gender identity from the earliest point in their care journey, to ensuring that same-sex partners are treated with the same compassion as any wife or husband, the positive impact of understanding the particular needs of LGBT people cannot be understated, attendees heard.

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CARINGNEWS

Smiles and tears of joy at moving awards ceremony

THE stars of social care in Wales were given a chance to shine at a moving awards ceremony where there were smiles and tears of joy in equal measure. They were honoured at the Wales Care Awards, otherwise known as the Oscars of social care, sponsored by Onyx Healthcare, in th surroundings of City Hall in Cardiff. Mario Kreft MBE, chair of Care Forum Wales, said: “The Wales Care Awards were established 17 years ago to raise the status and the profile of social care workers who do such a vitally important job, providing care for the most vulnerable people in communities across Wales. “Since then we have presented hundreds of the coveted awards to these richly deserving heroes and heroines who have also featured in the stories we have sent out to publicise the immense value of what they do – day in, day out. “Traditionally, social care has not been given the prominence it deserves but finally it is achieving the recognition it deserves as one of the four pillars of the Welsh Government’s economic strategy for the Foundation Economy. It is now seen a value to our nation and not merely a cost. “That can only be right because social care employs six per cent of the Welsh workforce and underpins the NHS which would be stretched to beyond breaking point without the sector’s support.” Compere for the evening was tenor Wynne Evans, who is best known these days as Gio Compario from the Go Compare TV ads and a

Spirit of Care winner Claire Aston with Helen Davies Parsons, chief executive of sponsors Dormy Care Communities.

Radio Wales presenter. The blue riband Spirit of Care Award went to Claire Aston, the divisional nurse and head of long-term complex care for the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board based in Pontypool. Claire also won a gold award in the category for Commitment to Training and Workforce Development.

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Paula Abbandonato from Cardiff-based Vibe PR and Marketing, for providing an event management service to the Wales Care Awards since their inception and also for her tireless work with the A-Sisterhood charity – a UK-based organisation that seeks to empower, support and protect women worldwide. The prestigious Sir Bryn Terfel Foundation Wales Care Award for Promoting the Arts in Social Care was given to Arts and Business Cymru and was presented by Sir Bryn’s son, Tomos, to its chief executive, Rachel Jones. The winner of the Peter Clarke Award for Promoting Excellence in Services for Children and Young People was Shirley Johnson, a team leader with the Branas Isaf, based in Corwen in Denbighshire, who often puts on fancy dress as part of her fun and creative approach to making life more special for the young people she works with. The Dignity in Care Award, sponsored by the Welsh Government, was won jointly by Hannah Carpanini – a social worker with Monmouth County Borough Council’s Adult Disability Service, Alison Jones – a nurse at Cariad Care Homes’ Plasgwyn Nursing in Criccieth and Claire Wilson – clinical lead at Ludlow Street Healthcare’s Pinetree Hospital. Among the VIP guests was Julie Morgan AM, the Welsh Government’s Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services, who presented the Dignity in Care Award and paid tribute to the social care workforce.

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CARING UK AWARD WINNERS

Activities Team of the Year: Acacia House Our judge found this one a really tough decision with all the finalists being outstanding. They chose our winner for their team approach ensuring all residents continue to lead a rich life – they are a fantastic testament to the wonderful care being delivered in the residents’ forever home.

Best Outdoor Environment: Landermeads

Quality in Housekeeping: The Pink Ladies at Abbeyfield Grove House The winning housekeeping team regularly go above and beyond their duties and are an integral part of the home. They not only keep the home clean and tidy but they are confidantes and friends. Despite having had to deal with the sad passing of one of the team they continue to ensure their standards are the highest.

Community Involvement: Langley Haven

The winner is impressive on so many levels – residents are involved in the evolution of the garden areas and the environment enables autonomy and independence. The home should be very proud of what has been created here for its residents.

The winner of this award has a permanent goal to offer residents a life, not just an existence. Staff do all they can to help residents to socialise and ensure they can continue to do the things which bring them pleasure and the feeling of being valued. Even though they live in a care home, residents play an active role in community life.

Catering Team of the Year: Wilton House

Best Initiative in Care: Magnolia House

Eating and drinking is obviously essential to sustain life, however it is much more than that and tonight’s winning team demonstrate flexibility and a desire to satisfy residents’ needs and tastes. Delicious afternoon teas, cooked breakfasts and inviting families along to share meal times all make for a special experience.

This home has seen many changes in the last year – in conjunction with residents and their families they have broadened horizons and pushed boundaries to ensure that residents can still reach their aspirations and achieve their dreams. Our judge described this lovely home and its staff as a breath of fresh air.

CARING UK AWARD WINNERS

Dementia Care Team: Sweyne Court

Excellence and Innovation in Dementia Care sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Society: Holly Lodge

This team has done an amazing job over the past four years to turn around this home from being good to excellent. The team is both inwards and outwards facing and they all take pride in the job they do. Just a look at the client testimonials shows what excellent person centred care is delivered here. Our winner is a credit to the sector

Our judge describes this finalist’s submission as heart-warming. Making residents and relatives smile is staff’s daily goal and it is clear that this home has designed a service with the views and needs of people living with dementia at its core. Sterling work is being carried out here and they are striving to continually improve.

End of Life Team: Glastonbury Court The care and compassion shown to residents and their families by tonight’s winners is exemplary. The home has an excellent end of life care programme which includes a ‘last days of life’ plan where the very best efforts are always taken to make a resident’s wishes a reality. The sunset suite is a calming and tranquil environment especially for families to enable them to be close by.

Commitment to Training and Development: Hendra House

The winner has a waiting list for staff wanting to work here – this is a remarkable testament to its commitment to its team and to how much effort, support and money goes into ensuring that each member of staff is the best they can be. Many of them have started as carers here and been inspired to move to professional careers and it is this home that has given the training and the support to provide that springboard. Our judge describes them as an exemplary role model to other care organisations.

Regional Care Home Midlands and Wales sponsored by DC Care: Hendra House Our winning care home has a reputation for consistently delivering quality to its residents for almost 20 years and its ethos is all about people. This can be measured by its continued ‘Outstanding’ rating since the new accreditation was introduced by the Care Quality Commission. This home has also achieved the coveted Investors in People Gold Award.

Regional Care Home South sponsored by Fusion Care Solutions: Appleby House Our ‘Outstanding’ rated winning home sees residents, relatives and colleagues as one big family. Every day residents are involved in decision making and are supported to make their own choices. By fulfilling residents’ lives this home has managed to reduce the use of anti-psychotic medication and lowered the number of distressed incidents.

CARING UK AWARD WINNERS

Regional Care Home of the Year North sponsored by Sommer Rose Interiors: EachStep Blackley All staff recruited at our winning care home were done so in a process that identified emotional intelligence and awareness of needs rather than the more traditional method which would rely on experience and qualifications. The team goes above and beyond in the delivery of person-centred care and works to foster links with the local community.

Regional Care Home of the Year Scotland: Mowat Court Every resident at this home, whether they are living with dementia or are receiving nursing care, is supported to be independent and play an active part in home life. Residents attend training courses alongside staff and an ambitious range of activities to suit residents’ abilities and interests include swimming, yoga and walking has been implemented.

Care Employee of the Year: Kelley Turner, Craigielea Care Home The winner has played a vital role in transforming this home into the happy, well-run place it is today. Only two years ago there was question marks over its future – now, the dedicated team works hard to take it from strength to strength. Our winner has supported the manager and staff through this transition and the home, its staff, residents and families have massively benefitted from her presence.

Care Employer of the Year: Fairway Homecare The winner of the Care Employer of the Year category provides a range of care services for a large spectrum of service users. The organisation invests heavily in its staff, recruiting experienced staff, while those who have no experience are trained through a trainee carer programme that enables the applicant to undertake training and upskilling for free. The organisation is also dedicated to helping the wider community and is passionate about its charity work.

Management Team of the Year: Knaves Court Extra Care This team stood out for how it addresses the complex needs of the residents who live there. When we talk about what home means people emphasise the importance of the relationships they have that create a sense of home. This is clearly evidenced at this facility. The management team have clearly earned their CQC outstanding status through the compassion and commitment they show to their staff and their residents.

Care Group of the Year sponsored by Clydesdale Yorkshire Bank: Stow Healthcare Our judge was bowled over by this care group. He describes it as an amazing group and the future of healthcare. It was a joy reading the submission – taking over failing homes is one thing, turning them into outstanding homes is a whole different ball game. From top to bottom this group strives for excellence and achieves it!

CARING UK AWARD WINNERS

Congratulations to our runners up ... Activities Team Shinfield View

Regional Care Home Midlands and Wales Dorset House

Best Outdoor Environment Regional Care Home Wentworth Court South Oak Lodge Catering Team St John’s House Regional Care Home North Quality in Amber Court Housekeeping Mill House Regional Care Home Scotland Community The Erskine Involvement Woffington House Care Employee Paul Kitaka Best Initiative in Care Stow Healthcare Care Employer Chelsea Court Dementia Care Team Place Royal Star and Garter Management Team Cedar Lodge End of Life Team Greensleeves Care Care Group Broadlands Care UK Commitment to Training and Development Nightingales Tuskhome Excellence and Innovation in Dementia Care Hollins Park

Care Team of the Year sponsored by Independent Care Group: Penhurst Gardens Our judge describes our winning team as extraordinary, a very stable working team, they are kind, caring and very supportive of all team members to deliver outstanding care, provide support for families and is a wonderful place to work.

National Care Home of the Year sponsored by Caring UK magazine: Hendra House The national care home of the year was the first in the region to be rated ‘Outstanding’ by CQC, which is no surprise given the amount of time and effort the owners and staff put into making the lives of the residents as happy as possible. Many staff told our judge who visited that they have worked in the industry all of their adult lives and that the owner is by far the best person they have ever worked for. And every member of staff – from the cleaner to the senior carer – is treated exactly the same. Any in-house training, no matter what your level, is done by everybody.

Care Team Capricorn Cottage Outstanding Achievement Ben Rogers

Outstanding Achievement sponsored by Shackletons: Lorraine Lee, Orchard Care Homes

Lorraine has been passionate about caring for people since she was six years old and knew even then that she wanted to be a nurse. As a teenager she took on voluntary work at a hospital catching two buses to get there. Over a 43-year career she has transformed people’s lives through her relentless focus on improving quality of care and only this year she has started to implement a new innovation called Reconnect which is a people centred approach to caring for people with dementia based on the belief that it is possible for anyone to maintain a good quality of life.

CARINGNEWS

Group’s loyal staff clock up 500 years of service

Home opens new hair and beauty salon

DEDICATED staff at Bield – who together can boast nearly 500 combined years of service – have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to the housing and care provider. Performance and quality officer Rhona Forrest has been acknowledged for her 25 years of service alongside Gail Barclay, service contracts team, who was recognised for her 15 years. The women were two of 27 staff members who between them have accumulated 495 years working for Bield. Rhona said: “I am really proud and delighted to have my career with Bield acknowledged and valued in this way. “I can’t quite believe I have been with Bield for 25 years. My time with the organisation has gone really quickly and it is great to have been in a job for so long and still enjoy coming to work every day. “It is the moments like these that make the job you do worthwhile and reinforces that the work you are doing is making a positive difference.” Gail added: “It’s really amazing to have received my 15 years long service award from Bield as they are a great organisation to work for. “I worked in the care services department for 14 years and in the

OAKLANDS House residential home in Reydon, near Southwold, has officially opened a new hair and beauty salon for its residents to enjoy. It includes comfortable salonstyle sinks and seating for hair washing, as well as vanity mirrors, floor-standing hair dryers and a nail bar area, so residents can enjoy having their nails painted while having their hair styled. Hanro Smith, manager of Oaklands House, said: “We are always looking at what more we can do for our residents. “Having spoken with everyone, we decided to open a new spacious hair and beauty salon. Everyone loves a pamper and now they can do this in the comfort of their own home and with all the modern facilities needed. “My team has done a fantastic job in creating the salon – with some modifications, we’ve relocated our laundry, created a new wet-room and been able to create our lovely new salon; it really is a popular addition and I know it will be put to good use.” The salon was officially opened by regional director Katherine Foley as part of a special ribbon cutting ceremony.

Rhona Forrest receives her long service certificate from Bield chair Susan Napier. Interim chief executive Charlie last year I moved to property services Dickson said: “None of what Bield where I work in the service contracts has achieved over the last 48 years in team. delivering quality housing and care “It is great how much Bield does services would have been possible for older people. To be a part of an without the hard work, dedication organisation that does so much for and professionalism of our staff at all their customers and to actually see the benefits is really rewarding. It levels. makes me really happy to think we “We are extremely fortunate to have are making a difference.” so many good people working for As a thanks for her longstanding Bield who often go above and beyond dedication to Bield, Rhona was the call of duty. It is so important for presented with a certificate and Bield to recognise their dedication as flowers in front of fellow colleagues, without them we would struggle to tenants, owners and Board Members provide the consistent level of service at this year’s AGM. that we do.”

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ARE YOU THINKING OF SELLING? Three of operator’s care homes feature in prestigious guide

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Provider’s £15m care development set to create 100 jobs

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Bank finances £6.6m luxury care home in Troon MORRISON Community Care Group has secured £6.6million of finance from Allied Irish Bank (GB) for a new care home in Troon, Ayrshire. Queens View Luxury Suites will comprise 56 suites for residents alongside a lounge, cocktail bar, cinema, hair salon and spa and a private dining room. A range of care services will be delivered on site, including residential, nursing and respite care. The development will create around 85 jobs, including nursing, domiciliary and hospitality roles. Morrison Community Care Group opened Kingsacre Luxury Suites in Duntocher, just outside Glasgow, earlier this year and has owned and operated Abbotsford Care Home in Bearsden for 30 years. Managing director Paul Sokhi said: “Our 30 years of experience in the industry has shown us that people want to have fun in their old age and

Stuart Wardle and Paul Sokhi celebrate opening of the Kingsacre Suites earlier this year. we want to encourage this through and we’re working towards opening design and environment. in early 2021.” “Allied Irish Bank (GB) understands Allied Irish Bank (GB) has been our ethos and commitment to the working closely with businesses in highest quality of care. We hope to the healthcare sector for more than 20 years. begin construction on the site soon

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Stuart Wardle, senior relationship manager at Allied Irish Bank (GB), added: “We’ve worked with Morrison Community Care Group for three decades and had no hesitation about financing the new facility in Troon. “They are established operators with an excellent track record at caring for patients, which is something we take into consideration when working with healthcare clients. “We’re proud to be working with an industry leader to create state-of-theart, luxury facilities for older people in Ayrshire.” Allied Irish Bank (GB) has been working closely with businesses in the healthcare sector for more than 20 years. The bank’s healthcare team has been shortlisted in the Capital Provider category at the HealthInvestor Power Awards 2019 and in the Lender award category of the 2019 LaingBuisson Awards.

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First council home for more than 25 years opens in city

Development shortlisted for prestigious award A LEADING housing and care provider has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Inside Housing Development Awards 2019. Bield’s development, The Meadow Apartments, in Lenzie has been nominated as the ‘Best Older People’s Housing Development of up to 50 homes’. The Meadow Apartments, developed in collaboration with Robertson Homes, offer 24 one and two-bedroom luxury apartments exclusively for shared ownership for over 50s. Caryn Innes, head of development and business growth at Bield, said: “The Meadow Apartments truly signify where Bield as a company is heading. This development reflects perfectly how we have responded to the change in our customers’ housing aspirations in terms of quality and lifestyle. “Not only do The Meadows Apartments allow local people to downsize, enjoy financial security and property ownership, they also provide modern luxury – a quality which is

difficult to find in traditional housing for older people. “The team works really hard to provide the best possible living facilities supported by a high-quality service which enables older people to have the freedom to make their own choices and live as independently as possible. “Everyone at Bield was thrilled to hear that one of our developments has been shortlisted for the Inside Housing Development Awards and we have our fingers crossed this fantastic development manages to bring home the award.” Through collaborative working, Bield and Robertson Homes have created a luxury, yet affordable, ageexclusive development with features that make a huge difference to the quality of later life. Bield’s shared ownership service offers the purchase of a 75 per cent share of the property (based on open market value). The remaining 25 per cent is held in perpetuity by Bield with an occupancy charge payable on the unsold share.

THE first Liverpool City Council commissioned care home to be built in more than 25 years has opened its doors. The £8million Brushwood in Speke is part of a commitment by the city council to meet the rising demand for dementia care services. It is the first local authority built care home to open in the city since the early 1990s, and will be the first of two – with the other, Millvina House, also in Liverpool, opening next month. There are 60 beds, 48 of them for long term care including nursing and general residential care, and the remaining dozen for assessment, with care at the centres being delivered by Shaw healthcare. The majority employee-owned company signed up to the Liverpool Social Value Charter and is paying its workforce in the city above the national living wage, and has provided specialist training in safeguarding and dementia awareness to all staff. Partnerships with local colleges and training organisations have enabled the firm to recruit around 80 per cent of the staff from the local area – Speke, Garston and Hunts Cross – while almost a quarter were unemployed prior to joining the team. Geraint Evans, commercial and development director for Shaw healthcare, said: “We are extremely proud to be working with Liverpool County Council and its contractors Willmott Dixon, and look forward

to delivering high-quality, specialist and sustainable care services to the residents of Brushwood. “The facility provides state-of-theart accommodation and our team has been through an industry-leading training programme, all of which will help us to ensure that residents enjoy the best possible quality of life. “The partnerships we have been able to develop have been invaluable in helping us to shape the team that will deliver care services at Brushwood. “We’ve been blown away by the support from local organisations, as well as from Liverpool City Council, and are committed to maintaining positive, ongoing relationships to support the continued development of the team and our services. “As a company, our values are Wellness, Happiness and Kindness and we believe that this should be present in all we do. The team at Brushwood will take a person-centred approach to care to achieve the best outcomes for residents. Our goal is to deliver the type of care that we would want for our own loved ones.” The name Brushwood was chosen following a competition with local people – it was the original name for Speke in the Domesday Book. Each wing is named after a poet, with Roger McGough, Adrian Henri among those featured, and selected poems they have written on the walls. The council has borrowed the money to build the two centres, with the repayments covered by income from the leases on each site.

Care home topped out THE final tiles have been secured on the roof of a new luxury care home in Towcester as part of a traditional topping out ceremony to mark the latest milestone at the development. Caring Homes’ purpose-built facility in Northamptonshire – Brook House – is due to open next summer. The home will offer a choice of spacious bedrooms with en-suite wet rooms, some having private patios with garden access. It will feature bright and versatile communal areas including a cinema, hair salon, sensory room, shop, bistro, a restaurant with private dining facilities and several cosy lounges and quiet rooms. The final roof tiles were fitted by

Caring Homes’ construction manager Kevin Coleman, area sales manager Michelle Mackay and special projects manager Alison Curd, along with representatives from builders Wildgoose Construction. Kevin said: “It is very exciting for everyone involved that we have reached this milestone at Brook House. “We will now all be working hard to get the home fitted out inside and recruit staff ready to welcome our first residents next year.” Brook House is part of Caring Homes, which is celebrating 25 years in the care home industry this year after starting out with one facility in 1994.

Waverley Gardens, an extra care housing site in Bishopsworth, Bristol, has 10 new independent living apartments available for the over 55s, with a choice of 75 per cent or 50 per cent shared ownership. The new apartments are part of an extension that will see the site almost double with the building of an additional 62 purpose-built independent living apartments, due to open in early 2020. The apartments will cater for people who wish to live independently in their own self-contained apartments with their own front door with support available on site 24/7 if needed. They include two bedrooms, a large living room, a kitchen with fitted electric hob and eye level oven, level access wet room, connection for terrestrial TV, underfloor heating, double glazing, communal facilities and an on-site restaurant open seven days.

Three of group’s care homes feature in prestigious guide THREE Country Court Care homes have been successfully nominated for inclusion in the exclusive Knight Frank Luxury Care Home Guide 2020. The guide showcases some of the UK’s finest care facilities and will include Walberton Place in the village of Walberton near Arundel, West Sussex, Lakeview Lodge in Milton Keynes and Tallington Lodge in Tallington near Stamford, Lincolnshire. “We are delighted to have three of our care homes featured in this ‘best-in-class’ guide,” said Alykhan Kachra, managing director of Country Court Care. “Our inclusion underlines our intention to provide a hotel type experience for our residents while retaining the family feel that makes our homes unique.” Lakeview Lodge in Milton Keynes is one of Country Court Care’s purposebuilt homes, caring for up to 66 people. The home has been designed with the needs of the residents in mind, with luxurious and thoughtful touches throughout. Communal areas are light, airy and uplifting, while the home also boasts a cinema room, coffee shop, private dining room, shop, family room and Enigma café. Walberton Place in West Sussex

is also a newly built care home nestled in the picturesque village of Walberton close to Chichester and Arundel. It offers residential and dementia care for up to 80 people with facilities that enhance the provision of daily meaningful opportunities and varied activities. The home features the ‘Horse and Jockey’ pub, Garden Café, hair and beauty salon cinema room and enclosed courtyard garden. The dedicated activities room enables arts and crafts activities to

take place in a quiet space or for use of the Omi interactive projection system, specially designed for mental and physical stimulation. Tallington Lodge has recently been extended and sympathetically refurbished in keeping with the original 19th Century rectory. The home boasts a traditional stone frontage, which blends seamlessly with surrounding cottages in the quiet Lincolnshire village. Close to the towns of Stamford, Bourne and Market Deeping,

residents enjoy close connections with the community and regular trips to town. Tallington Lodge offers beautiful homely accommodation with the highest standards of residential and dementia care. Spread over two floors, to accommodate the separate needs of residents, ground floor rooms feature patio doors leading out to private and personal seating areas. The care home has its own ‘Railway Inn’ pub with rooftop seating area, Gallery café, landscaped gardens with ‘Boat House’ garden room, quiet library and hair and beauty salon. Lounge and dining areas have been furnished to enhance the original features of the home with cosy fireside seating and thoughtful attention to detail. All three homes differ in style and setting but are united in their luxury facilities and dedication to family-led, person centred care. They all share one other characteristic – their very own ‘pets’. Each home features a metallic sculpture unique to that location, from a giraffe at Tallington, to a stag at Walberton and even a hippopotamus at Lakeview, which have become real talking points in their community.

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Specialist Bucks Care Business Confidentially Sold by DC Care On behalf of Mr Paul Brackley, DC Care is delighted to announce the recent sale of Care Services (MK) CIC, a specialist care provider operating out of three separate locations in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire. Mr Brackley first established the group in 2014 to provide 24/7 supported living care for up to nine service users, across three detached bungalows that were converted and adapted specifically for learning disabilities and autism. In a relatively short time the business gained an excellent reputation for the quality of the care and accommodation it provides.

SOLD

Care Services (MK) CIC, Milton Keynes, Bucks.

The business has been acquired by the Precious Homes group, renowned operators nationwide in the specialist care field. The sale was managed by Southern Region Director Andy Sandel and Senior Sales Negotiator Michelle Natkus. Andy summarised: "From my first meeting with Mr Brackley and my initial visit to the properties, I recognised that this was a well-run, forward thinking business that would appeal to a number of established operators in this sector. We are delighted to have concluded the sale to Precious Homes particularly as we are confident that they will continue to provide a high quality service for the residents."

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Provider’s £15m care development set to create 100 jobs Funding spurs growth for healthcare group H & H Care Homes Limited has agreed a £12.75m deal with Clydesdale Bank to refinance debt on three of its largest care facilities, as part of wider plans for new expansion. With support from the Bank’s Health and Social Care team, the group, which owns Handsale Care Homes, has refinanced its Caledonia, Westerfield and Swn-y-Môr developments in Scotland and Wales, which provide a mix of local authority and privately funded places for more than 240 residents. The deal will enable the company to free up extra working capital, helping it to make further acquisitions in the sector, raising the number of beds it operates, particularly in the Scottish healthcare marketplace where it eyes growth, including new build developments. Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Pinner in Middlesex, Handsale Care is a family business offering residential, dementia and respite care to elderly residents at eight homes across England, Scotland and Wales. With more than 30 years’ experience in the sector, the business provides 536 beds and employs more than 600 staff, maintaining a focus on using the latest medical technology to help its employees deliver better outcomes

for service users. Bharat Sodha, owner and founder of H & H Care Homes, said: “In light of our sustained growth, refinancing made strategic sense for our business and was always a cornerstone of our growth plans. “Clydesdale Bank’s sector-specific team was a natural fit for us, especially given their established credentials in the healthcare industry. The competitive terms they have provided to us for the new lending will help us optimise our cash flow, which is so crucial as we look to expand the firm’s footprint in the years ahead.” Catherine McDougall, director, health and social care at Clydesdale Bank, added: “Bharat and his family management team have a proven track record and are well known across the industry for offering high standards of care. We are thrilled to be working closely with them at such an exciting time for the group. “Our team remains committed to supporting Britain’s health and social care businesses, which are so crucial to the health of the industry, to those who need expert care and their families and friends.” H & H Care Homes Limited received legal advice on the transaction from Bowling & Co and Addleshaws.

HADRIAN Healthcare has acquired land overlooking the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in Skipton and plans to build luxury elderly care accommodation with a state-of-theart new build development. The company is a family business established by owner and chairman Ian Watson, who has a reputation for introducing exciting innovations and standards in the provision of all forms of accommodation and care. It recently sold five of its Manor House homes in Yorkshire and County Durham, which are now operated by the Anchor Hanover Group, leaving Hadrian to operate two North East homes, the Manor Houses at Gosforth and Whickham. The company has recently turned its attention to Skipton where it has exciting plans for the creation of a new Manor House project on the banks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The proposed new accommodation will have 85 bedrooms/suites, including the company’s specialist ‘Chesters’ accommodation which has been specially designed by the experts at Hadrian Healthcare to provide a safe and stimulating environment for people with dementia. In addition, there will be eight supported living apartments available. The development would also bring a boost to the local economy by creating up to 100 permanent jobs. Ian said: “We look for sites that

reflect what we offer by their location, so it’s no coincidence that this is a premier position in Skipton which will have beautifully landscaped private gardens, yet still be close to amenities and shops. “There will also be a special roof terrace garden for our ‘Chesters’ residents where they can enjoy the stimulation of being outdoors in beautiful surroundings overlooking the calm waters of the canal. “As well as spacious suites with private bathrooms, residents will be able to enjoy hairdressing and beauty treatments in our beauty salon. “There will be a restaurant and bistros, including a luxury traditional style tearoom/bar where people can catch up with friends and relatives. “There will be a retail area selling everything residents might need or want, from an old fashioned sweet shop to greetings cards. “It almost seems to be underselling what’s on offer to mention ‘bedrooms’ when what we are actually providing is an exclusive quality of life for discerning elderly people who can no longer live by themselves, but want to maintain their lifestyle, individuality and dignity.” The Manor House Skipton will also offer respite care for those who need a short break away from their home for whatever reason, for example convalescence after hospital treatment. Hillingdon Council has officially opened Park View Court, an innovative new extra care housing development for older residents. The council is providing 60 flats – 57 one-bedroom and three twobedroom – at the modern development in Yiewsley. The £15.5million development offers residents and their families peace of mind, with professional care on-site 24 hours a day.

Sanders family launch new premium care home brand DC Care delivers decade Advertiser’s announcement

RUNWOOD Homes owner and CEO Gordon Sanders and his family have ventured into the premium, privatepay market, under a new brand and company name, Sanders Senior Living. The concept aims to provide the highest quality living environment for residents, using premium materials and the latest technology to evidence safe and compliant delivery of medication and personal care, and places the wellbeing of people who choose the service at the very centre of its function. Head of commissioning and premium services, Peta Mandleberg, said: “We aim to help our residents enjoy happy, fulfilled lives; enjoying long established hobbies, discovering

new ones and being part of a vibrant community.” Registered with the Care Quality Commission, Sanders Senior Living has just opened its care home, Graysford Hall, in Stoneygate, Leicester, and is welcoming its first residents. Graysford Hall is designed to appeal to seniors, including those living with dementia, and has a capacity for up to 69 people. A second SSL home, Claridge Place, in Olton, Solihull, is nearing construction completion, with a plan to open at the end of the month. The state-of-the-art care homes offer large suites for solos or couples, a bar, bistro, private dining, library, hairdressing salon, therapy room, cinema and a selection of lounges.

of successfully selling AS we enter the 2020’s and reflect on the past 10 years, we have witnessed an economically and politically turbulent climate. Despite the challenges consequently brought about, DC Care has delivered a decade of successfully selling. From the worst of the financial crash coming into 2010 to the continuing uncertainty of Brexit at the end of 2019, if there is one thing that has remained certain throughout it’s the strong interest and demand for care businesses. A lot of care businesses acquired

during the peak of the market during the early-mid 2000’s suffered the consequences of the financial crash and banks tightening up. Working, however, with a variety of Insolvency Practitioners and Receivers, particularly in the early 2010’s, DC Care helped to save such businesses’ futures, sourcing buyers with turnaround experience. Whatever the future brings and with an aging population, the UK will still need care homes, and if you are considering selling your care business this is definitely good news for you.

35 CGI images of the new care home

Group to bring flagship dementia care to Perth ONE of the UK’s largest healthcare management companies is working in partnership with Glenisla Developments Limited to create a 60-bed care home, which is part of an innovative mixed-use development in Alyth, Perth and Kinross. The Healthcare Management Solutions’ development has been named ‘Pitcrocknie Village’ using local historic features. The care home, which will create around 60 jobs in late 2020, will specialise in dementia care and be purpose-built. It will benefit from the latest dementia care design, with significant input from the experts at HCMS and the Dementia Services Development Centre at Stirling University. Tony Stein, chief executive of HCMS, said: “This is a hugely exciting development and we are proud to have been retained as both

consultants during the initial design and to commission and ultimately provide management services to the care home and domiciliary care businesses. “The care home will be a flagship for excellence in dementia care, providing care within a mixed residential development rather than a care/retirement village, ensuring that the residents receive the highest quality care and support whilst still remaining part of the wider community.” In a letter that was submitted with the planning application, Martin Quirke of the DSDC wrote: ‘Through their engagement of DSDC for dementia design consultation, Glenisla Developments Ltd has set out to achieve the highest standards of dementia design throughout the proposed development. They further evidence their intent, aiming

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to achieve the Gold Standard Award under the University of Stirling’s Dementia Design Accreditation process. So far, the overall proposed scheme includes several characteristics that reflect some of the best recognised international standards in evidence-based dementia accessible design.’ A Professional Healthcare Surveyors Report commissioned by HCMS demonstrated strong demand for a care home and assisted living facilities in the area. It shows that an additional 50 care beds will be required every year for at least the next 10 years, with little or no other purpose-built care homes with dementia specialism planned within a 20-mile radius of Pitcrocknie Village In addition, the Scottish Government has prioritised dementia care and the development will

the evidence

provide some facilities detailed in its Dementia Strategy 2017 – 2020. Pitcrocknie Village will also offer a range of housing, including family homes and affordable housing, with the first phase of 20 properties offering care provisions or assisted living if required. HCMS will provide management services as domiciliary care providers to meet the needs of individuals living in the wider development. Sixty acres of the 140-acre former golf course site will be developed into housing, the care home and some commercial/business units, with the remaining 80 acres continuing to operate as the nine-hole Glenisla Golf Course, owned by the developers. The former club house will provide a function hub, and communal gardens, recreation areas and walking/cycling paths also form part of the plan.

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CARINGCARE HOME ACTIVITIES Squire’s Garden Centre in Long Ditton held a special afternoon tea for some of the residents of Royal Star & Garter to commemorate Remembrance Day. The residents were given sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea in Squire’s Cafe Bar, which is a place for the local community, and friends and family, to meet and enjoy. Royal Star & Garter provides loving and compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia. Squire’s in Long Ditton support the charity by putting on events, and raising awareness and money for them.

Kepplegate House Care Home in Preesall took part in the Electric Trial undertaken by Glasgow Caledonian University. The scheme aims to help people with incontinence by using electric stimulation (using a tens-style device) to stimulate nerves which in turn increases bladder retention and gives people more time to get to the toilet. A small group from Kepplegate signed up to take part in the study, not only to help themselves, but also in the hope that their participation in the trial will help other people around the country. The trial took approximately six months to complete.

Staff and residents at Elmcroft care home in Shoreham marked World Alzheimer’s Month by organising a couple of events to raise awareness of dementia, as well as raising money for national charity. Residents, family members and staff took part in a ‘Memory Walk’, as well as organising a pyjama day at the care home, raising £320 for the Alzheimer’s Society in the process. A 17-strong group from Elmcroft took on the charity walk, including nine residents who were over 80 years of age. They walked two miles before ending at Southwick Square, where they met and received donations from members of the public. Sunrise of Bramhall paid its respects to the fallen on Remembrance Sunday with the opening of a new garden by a D-Day veteran. The idea for the Garden of Remembrance came about to provide a quiet space for residents to be able to sit and reflect. It was designed by Sunrise of Bramhall’s maintenance manager Marc Ward and includes a hand-painted mural by activities assistant Sarah Durham. The garden itself was poignantly opened by D-Day veteran Cyril Tolley who is a resident at the care home. He served in the Royal Navy as a lieutenant and on D-Day he was responsible for steering the landing crafts on to the beaches, during which he can remember bullets flying past his head.

The family of Ted Gowan, a former resident at Barnes Lodge Care Home, got together to plant a Rowan tree to honour his memory. Armed with a spade and an already six-foot tree, Ted’s daughters, son-in-laws, grandchildren and great-grandchildren gathered at the care home to plant the tree in memory of their loved one. Ted, who passed away in June, spent 18 months living at Barnes Lodge and celebrated his 100th birthday there. Care staff from the home joined the family to plant the tree and as the soil was filled in, Ted’s great granddaughter placed a small plaque, declaring ‘Ted’s Tree’ just in front.

Residents from four care homes in Consett run by Four Seasons Health Care came together to create a moving poppy display to commemorate Remembrance Sunday. The ‘Cascading Poppies’ display, which is currently on view to the public in Consett Library, includes more than 250 decorative poppies crafted and painted by residents and their families at special workshops. Residents at Abigail Lodge, Brockwell Court and Redwell Hills in Consett, and Hollie Hill in Stanley took part in creative sessions led by Creative Mojo, an organisation that offers art and craft activities for the elderly and specialises in working with people with dementia. Former goalkeeper Harold Lea, who played for Wigan Athletic during the 1940-50s, proved a lucky charm for the club when he watched them from the front row of the West Stand as they secured a 1-0 victory over championship rivals Nottingham Forest. Harold was on a trip down memory lane arranged by homecare provider Belong at Home Wigan. He got a chance to meet with the team’s manager Paul Cook and current players before kick-off to discuss football past and present. Harold shared stories from his career, which began at Wigan Grammar School Old Boys and came to an end at Stockport County. Barnes Lodge in Tonbridge welcomed its first nursing resident recently. Former milkman George Brock was the home’s first resident on its new nursing floor. George used to work on a farm and always liked helping out his friends and family by doing odd jobs and gardening. He loves dogs and one of his most prized possessions is a painting his neighbours painted for him of his dog, ‘pet’.

CARINGPRODUCT NEWS

Offering a complete laundry solution ... THE laundry facility is a central process within any care home and it is vital to ensure that the correct procurement decisions are made. Within the care sector legislations prohibit the use of domestic washing machines, as they do not meet the stringent hygiene requirements. It is essential to choose a trusted service partner that will provide appropriate commercial laundry equipment in order to ensure adherence to logistical and regulation requirements. Established in 1926, Forbes Professional has a solid understanding of care sector requirements and delivers comprehensive commercial laundry solutions to homes across the UK. Proud partners of Miele, Maytag and Primus, our machines provide both sluice and thermal disinfection to fully comply with CQC and WRAS regulations. To complement our washers, tumble dryers and rotary ironers, we also offer auto-dosing equipment as well as on-going detergent provision. Our Complete Care solution gives access to premium commercial

laundry without upfront capital expenditure and with the security of our first class engineer response service and no call out or repair costs. A multi site care home operator: ‘Forbes’ team of engineers are always helpful and friendly and if they cannot fix the machines on site they will always take it away and return the same day.’ Installation and commissioning are carried out by our experienced engineers, who also provide any necessary user training to ensure that the equipment is fully optimised. On-going account management, service requirements and detergent provision are handled centrally from our head office as part of a streamlined process that keeps things simple for our clients.

Providing overnight protection against falls and wandering ALARM Radio Monitoring (ARM) has added a new product to its range of wireless nurse call and staff alarm systems – the Bed Angel. The unobtrusive ceiling-mounted Bed Angel creates a circle of care over the sleeping resident, using thermal imaging to monitor the bed and the area directly around it. Bed Angel can be set to High, Medium and Low Risk modes and offers many safety benefits: n Out of Bed – triggers an alarm when the resident gets out of bed (medium risk setting). n Light Guidance – turns bedside and bathroom lights on when the resident gets out of bed then off when they get back in safely, sending an alert if they do not return within a pre-set time. n Fall Detection – triggers an alarm if a heat signature in the fall detection zone remains immobile for a pre-set amount of time, indicating an event.

n Wireless Door Contacts – alerts staff if anyone enters or exits the room. n Wireless Ceiling Pull Cords – activates a resident call from the en-suite. The system requires no bed mats or electronic sensors, with their associated cables and potentially dangerous trailing leads. It works on the existing ARM nurse call system and can be installed quickly and easily with minimum disruption. According to Help the Aged, older people living in care homes are three times more likely to fall than those living in the community, with night time bathroom visits being particularly problematic. This can lead to distress, litigation, complaints and bad publicity. Bed Angel can play an important role in addressing this.

Gainsborough baths chosen to complement pioneering care model at new home

CHAWLEY Grove in Oxfordshire, an impressive purpose-built 70-bed care home operated by Hamberley Care Homes, is delivering the latest in person-centred care through an innovative approach and Gentona baths from Gainsborough Specialist Bathrooms. Stylish Chawley Grove is located in Cumnor Hill and opened in May 2019 to support residents requiring residential, nursing and dementia care. Part of a nine-strong network, Chawley Grove is the latest stunning Hamberley development to pioneer a new approach to care. Part of this innovative ‘home maker’ person-centred support involves access to specialist hi-lo Gentona baths from Gainsborough which deliver safe accessibility through advanced ergonomic and power assisted design. Combined with ultra-efficient operation, revolutionary BioCote antimicrobial protection and proven performance, these bathing solutions perfectly complement the ‘Homemaker’ approach to client support. Each of the three Gentona baths is situated in a beautifully finished accessible bathroom. Contemporary decor, with colour and warmth, works in unison with soft furnishings and details such as a seating area for Homemakers – resulting in a more positive time for residents. Safer working heights for

homemakers are facilitated by the variable height baths and their powered bather transfer seats eliminate physical moving and handling so the risk of falls is lowered. Added to this, musculoskeletal injury for Homemakers is drastically reduced whilst dignity is improved for bathers. Hamberley regards high quality, accessible bathing as a crucial element within their service provision. Paul Hill, CEO, Hamberley Care Homes, said: “Living in a beautiful place with a real sense of light and space ensures well-being and happiness are maximised – our bathrooms help deliver on this promise. We regard Gainsborough Specialist Bathrooms as the default choice in power bath suppliers. “Through the technology encompassed in our Gentona baths, our ‘Spa bathrooms’ provide hydrotherapy, chromotherapy and environmental music for ultimate relaxation. “Gainsborough baths perfectly lend themselves to the atmosphere we focus on during bathing. We do not portray solutions as ‘assisted baths’ as this implies dependency; we want bathing to be enjoyable, liberating and fun. “Our wider ethos is care with creativity and innovation – our aesthetic Gentona baths enhance this approach and clearly demonstrate our values.”

Accessible hotel goes from strength to strength THE Bond Hotel was recently informed that another accessible holiday provider Safehands Holidays, who ran The New Mayfair, Blackpool and The Esplanade Hotel, Llandudno had suddenly ceased trading, leaving an uncertain future on existing bookings they had in place. In a country where there is a limited choice of accessible holiday accommodation it is with a very heavy heart that we received the news they had been placed into liquidation, with both hotels closing their doors with immediate effect. Our thoughts are with the staff who face unemployment so close to Christmas, alongside the guests with disabilties who have lost their

holidays at such short notice – many who need the wheelchair accessible accommodation and mobility equipment. Unfortunately, some callers have been under the impression that we were part of the same company. We would like to reassure you that The Bond Hotel has never been affiliated with Safehands Holidays or any part of the Safehands Group. We have been providing fully accessible holidays for more than 30 years and will continue to do so for many years to come. Due to the extra demand we are facing at the moment we would like to ask our existing guests to get in touch to secure any dates they are

looking at for the upcoming season. We will be extending the deposit payment dates until January for our existing guests, to enable them to secure their chosen breaks. The Bond Hotel has always been a family run hotel, and in 2014 it passed to the younger generation who have fully invested in the hotel, continually updating and improving our holidays and services. Our domiciliary care team that can provide holidays with care have grown strongly over the past years, enabling us to provide a unique alternative to traditional respite that cannot be found elsewhere. Our phone lines have been incredibly busy this week following

this news and we are striving to assist people who have been put into an incredibly difficult and stressful situation. If you have been affected speak to our reservations team on 01253 341218 who are keen to help. We will do our best to accommodate you and your group on any holiday that was booked at The New Mayfair or The Esplanade in Llandudno. The Bond Hotel is the original fully accessible hotel in Blackpool and we are very much open for business and raring to go, welcoming in our Christmas season and looking forward to 2020.

CARINGPRODUCT NEWS

How technology is helping 1 Oak Home Care to provide excellent holistic care ANGEL Doyle is passionate about delivering person-centred care for elderly service users. She is the managing director of 1 Oak Home Care, a CQC-accredited domiciliary care agency in Suffolk, and believes this level of care can only be achieved if it is holistic in nature. Angel, whose agency specialises in tailoring care to the needs of the 32 clients, said: “Our priority is to support independent living and our 25 staff work closely with service users to achieve that. “However, delivering outstanding care is not just about preparing meals, washing or providing mobility support, it’s also about helping the person keep their independence and remain a focal part of their community. “So we also run a service where our staff will accompany service users on day trips, arrange for a DBS-checked hairdresser to come to their house, or perhaps an accredited handyman to mow the lawn.” Demand for 1 Oak Home Care’s services is so high that in the next

Angel Doyle two years, Angel, who left a job in employment law to work in domiciliary care, plans to open another two branches in Suffolk. But it hasn’t been an easy journey. She added: “When I set up the business in early 2017, it took 12 weeks to be granted registration by the CQC. “One of the greatest challenges

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since then has been to keep abreast of the many thousands of policies and procedures that every agency and its staff must follow. “Although my background is in policy writing, when we began operating in July 2017 I found myself juggling many different roles. “As well as delivering care, I had also taken on the role of registered manager, safeguarding lead, data protection and GDPR lead. “I quickly realised that I had two choices – either I could hire another member of staff to help me with the policy writing, or find a technological solution.” With budgets tight, Angel opted for technology and says she “hasn’t looked back since”. For the last two years, she’s partnered with Quality Compliance Systems, which supplies her staff with bespoke, jargon-free policies and procedures. “The QCS system has provided us with highly relevant up-to-date policy reading lists which we can distribute to the right staff member at the right time,” she added. “Secondly, by enabling us to

customise policies, add additional sections quickly and effectively and download them, the QCS system ensures our care plans cater for individual needs.” Angel also said QCS policies have provided staff with the necessary building blocks to provide outstanding care. “There are three policy areas that are absolutely crucial for staff in domiciliary care – the ‘No Reply’ policy, the ‘Lone Working Policy’ and the overarching medication piece,” she concluded. “Thanks to QCS, which makes the policies highly accessible to our staff, we’ve incorporated all three into a handbook that staff are given at induction and asked to carry around at all times. “At the bottom of every QCS policy, there’s a section which lists ‘outstanding practice’. “This has been transformative for our service because, essentially, it provides us with a best practice benchmark to measure our service against and a driver to ensure continuous improvement.”

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ACCOUNTANCY SAVVY!

Our goal is to work with you to carefully assess your personal or business requirements with the ultimate aim of reducing your tax liability – evaluating your needs and offering expert advice where and when you need it in a professional albeit informal environment.

It has barely been a couple of months since Andy, Michelle, Lisa plus their families and four-legged friend took on the 6km route in the Leeds Memory Walk and donations have been surging in. Thousands of eager participants completed the walk for a world without dementia. The staff at DC Care raised more than £500 for Alzheimer’s Society and would like to thank everybody who donated. There is not one member of this team who has not been touched by this affliction. Your donations will go towards improving the lives of people with dementia and research into treatments that manage symptoms, halt disease progression and ultimately cure dementia.

With our unique understanding of the Care Home Business, we can assist in the following ways:

• Start-up business advice • Advice & assistance with the purchase or sale if applicable. • Tax • Preparation and analysis of financial statements. • Bookkeeping and payroll services • Sales invoice preparation and monthly analysis for credit payments • Tax planning strategies. • Understanding service user funding • VAT (if applicable) • Business succession planning.

JER ACCOUNTS SERVICE

7 St Pauls Yard, Silver Street, Newport Pagnell, Bucks, MK16 0EG tel: 01908 210666 Email:jane@jeras.org.uk mobile: 07956 917591

Beaucare launch CareClean™

BEAUCARE® Medical announces the launch of their CareClean™ premium concentrated laundry range, the new lines include bactericidal laundry detergent, fabric conditioner, destainer and sanitiser dedicated for use in professional environments including the care industry. The range is a cost effective solution which incorporates a powerful bactericidal action, along with the capability to work at low temperatures and deal with severe soilage problems. The detergent incorporates a spring fragrance

for long lasting freshness. All of the range is designed for use through Beaucare’s automatic dosing machines, ensuring ease of use for the care home laundry staff. They are available in 20, 10 and five-litre durable plastic tubs with secure screw lids for safe storage. Full product information literature is available on the range. Enquiries: For further details on the CareClean™ Laundry, contact the sales team on 01423 878899.

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SPECIALIST BATHROOM SOLUTIONS G360 Services from Gainsborough Specialist Bathrooms, the new name for Gainsborough Specialist Bathing. Specialist assisted baths Trusted enablement, installation and management Lifetime support and servicing

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CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF INNOVATION IN FURNITURE DESIGN To find out more call: 01924 868 470 For more information visit: www.shackletonsltd.co.uk