Caring UK June 2016 by Script Media

June 2016

incorporating The Number One magazine for the care sector

iPod amnesty campaign to stir memories

By Dominic Musgrave

MUCH loved music from the past will help stir memories and the imagination for more than 360 care home residents thanks to an iPod amnesty event being staged by Morris Care as part of its unique approach to caring for those living with dementia. The leading care provider launched an appeal with all its staff, their families and friends, for old and unused iPods to be donated to coincide with Dementia Awareness Week. The devices will be restored and filled with music from different eras and genres so that residents in their care homes who are living with dementia can tune in to the music which provided a soundtrack to their lives. The hope is that it will help stimulate the brain and unlock memories connected with the songs. Research has shown that music can soothe, stimulate and even bring back forgotten memories. This research links with Morris Care’s Cedar Philosophy by offering an alternative form of therapy for residents living with dementia. The Cedar Philosophy was developed by Morris Care alongside the University of Stirling as a way of

focusing on an individual’s holistic wellbeing and personal needs, not just their nursing requirements. Alison Hearle, dementia and social life lead at Morris Care, said: “Part of my role is to develop and embed our Cedar Philosophy across all homes and the iPod amnesty gives residents the opportunity to ‘remember the music’ and maybe even ignite a spark that could lead to the unlocking of a forgotten memory. “This is a great example of how our Cedar Philosophy looks at every element of our residents’ wellbeing.” “We are supporting Alzheimer’s Society in its fight against dementia which is something close to our hearts. We really hope that we can further improve the quality of life for those living with dementia.” The amnesty was rolled out across all of Morris Care’s six homes and their head office on the Welsh Bridge in Shrewsbury. All Morris staff, families and friends are being encouraged to dig out and donate their dusty old iPods and give them a new lease of life. Q If you have got a story for the next issue of Caring UK magazine, email reporter Olivia Taylor at ot@ scriptmedia.co.uk or call her on 01226 734407. You can follow us on Twitter @caringuk

Care group given gold for health and safety

TV and radio presenter Gloria Hunniford officially opened Caring Homes’ new, purpose-built care home Southlands Place in Bexhill. She toured the 72-bed home, meeting and speaking to residents, their relatives and the care team as well as visiting members of the public. Guests then enjoyed lunch, prepared by the home’s chefs while listening to music by The Sussex String Quartet in the sunshine. Some guests also received a complimentary hair appointment or nail treatment at the Southlands Place salon.

BARCHESTER Healthcare has achieved a Gold award for the second year running in the RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Awards, run by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. Staff from Barchester’s health and safety team will be presented with the award during a ceremony at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole hotel, on July 13. RoSPA Gold Award winners have achieved a high level of performance, demonstrating well-developed occupational health and safety management systems and culture, outstanding control of risk and very low levels of error, harm and loss. Cath Dyson, director of health and safety at Barchester, said: “I am delighted Barchester has been awarded the RoSPA Gold Award again in recognition of achieving the highest of health and safety standards. “The support across the organisation, from senior management to operational teams, in promoting the importance of health and safety has led to a positive safety culture, where our residents and patients are at the centre of our risk management approach.”

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Operator helps its staff to experience dementia By Olivia Taylor IDEAL Carehomes is taking its training to the limits by offering staff the opportunity to have a virtual experience of dementia. The company, which operates 15 residential and dementia care homes across the North and Midlands, has enlisted the help of the Virtual Dementia Tour bus to give staff this unique insight into their residents’ condition. The Virtual Dementia Tour bus is run by Experience Training and gives participants the opportunity to take a walk into the world of dementia – by donning gloves, dark glasses and earphones, senses are greatly reduced which is instantly disorientating. Many find the sensation distressing, allowing them to empathise with residents’ reactions to different scenarios. Along with being in a strange darkened room, not being able to recognise the object in front of you, and with normal everyday noises feeling much louder, the whole experience can feel frightening and isolating.

A member of staff experiences dementia using the Virtual Dementia Tour bus. Glenn Knight, managing director of Experience Training, said: “Ideal Carehomes and its staff have shown a willingness to improve already high standards for their residents and families alike. “Understanding what a resident with

dementia experiences improves practice whilst building empathy. “Experience Training is proud to be working with an organisation which shares our core values and foresight to improve the lives of those who live with dementia.” Ideal Carehomes is sending the Virtual Dementia Tour bus to each of its 15 homes, with every member of staff being given the opportunity to take part in the experience. The homes are also opening their doors to the local community, inviting relatives and friends to take part wherever possible. Regional director of Ideal Carehomes, Amanda Richardson, added: “I just can’t stress enough how effective this training is and how much it will benefit our staff and residents. “For our staff to be able to experience dementia, even just for a few minutes, is incredible and will really help them to reassess their actions when caring. “This Virtual Dementia Tour is much more powerful than classroom training and is an experience which they will never forget.”

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Group’s initiative aiming to bridge generation gap By Olivia Taylor

The teams from The New Deanery and St Mary’s Court celebrating their award win Coronation Street’s Jennie McAlpine at the Skills for Care Accolades.

Homes win prestigious accolade THE New Deanery and St Mary’s Court care homes in Bocking beat off fierce competition from across England to triumph in the category of Most Effective Approach to Leadership and Management at the Government-backed Skills for Care Accolades. The awards, which reward companies who are committed to providing high quality care and developing their workforce, were held at a glamorous ceremony in Birmingham hosted by Coronation Street star Jennie McAlpine, who

plays Fiz Brown. Julia Clinton, CEO of parent company Sonnet Care Homes, said: “Skills for Care is the strategic body for workforce development in adult social care and we are honoured to receive this national award from them. “The onsite leadership team at The New Deanery and St Mary’s Court work tirelessly to ensure exemplary day-to-day support for residents, families and frontline workers, and we believe that they thoroughly deserve to be recognised in this way.”

TENANTS at a Dunbar retirement housing development have teamed up with local school pupils to form a weekly social activity group in an attempt to bridge the generation gap. The creative initiative sees students from Dunbar Grammar School, ranging from ages 14 to 16 years old, visit Bield’s Southfield Court every Wednesday with their teacher. The programme aims to encourage young and old generations to come together, get to know more about each other and teach each other new things. So far, this has involved everything from playing snooker and darts to having in depth discussions and debates on a range of topics. Retirement manager at Southfield, Kate Donohoe, said: “I think what has been most beneficial for both groups is realising how much they have in common. It’s always great to watch the children and tenants getting along so well. “Spending time with the pupils gives the residents such a boost as they love interacting with them and hearing about what life is like for kids

Youngsters from Dunbar Grammar School with Bield’s Southfield Court tenants. growing up these days. “And I think the project has also been a huge eye opener for the pupils too. They’ve all grown up technology literate and it’s part of their daily lives, so I think they find it quite surprising to hear from a generation that isn’t constantly online or using some sort of digital device. “We are hoping that this project will continue to run permanently and that more tenants and school pupils will get involved.”

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Project launched to establish fair cost of care ... Chichester Mayor, Councillor Peter Budge, unveils a plaque to mark the opening of Colten Care’s Wellington Grange home with Mark Aitchison, chief executive.

£11m ‘jewel’ opens in Chichester A NEW £11million care home has been hailed as “the latest jewel in Chichester’s crown.” The city’s Mayor, Councillor Peter Budge, was speaking at the official opening of Colten Care’s Wellington Grange. Unveiling a plaque at the residential and nursing care home, he said: “Chichester is a city of great charm and interest with a varied population. “But the one thing that draws us all together is our belief that Chichester is the best place to live. Anything new to our city must enhance that view. “I am sure that Colten Care’s Wellington Grange will do exactly that and I declare the latest jewel in Chichester’s crown officially open.”

Wellington Grange is the familyowned company’s 20th home and its first in Sussex. The 72-bedroom home provides residential, nursing and respite care services. It will create up to 120 jobs when it reaches full occupancy. Facilities at Wellington Grange include an in-house cinema, hairdressing salon, spa room, Brandy Hole library, Royal Sussex Dining Room and Sandpiper Bistro. The home’s manager, Clare Gibson, said: “The team at Wellington Grange are committed to delivering high quality consistent care to our residents and offering a warm welcome to their families and friends.”

THE organisation that represents Shropshire’s care providers has joined forces with the county’s two local authorities in a bid to establish the realistic cost of providing care. Shropshire Council and Telford & Wrekin Council are jointly funding a research project with Shropshire Partners in Care to research vital information on the different elements of delivering care including staffing, training, and other overheads. The project is a venture towards bridging the gap in understanding between the increasing costs of providing adult social home care and the council funding. It involves a six-month research survey conducted by an experienced financial expert. More than 200 adult social care providers are being asked to complete a confidential questionnaire about their costs. The results will be used to inform both councils when they decide future funding agreements. Nicky Jacques, chief officer of Shropshire Partners in Care, said: “The disparity between the cost of providing care and council funding is an issue. We accept that the councils face a difficult situation due to their

settlements from the Government but this project aims to recognise the realities and complexities of delivering provision, with real evidence from providers. “It is a positive move by both councils to fund this project and we are very grateful. We would urge all care providers to respond with as much information as possible so we can build up an accurate and robust picture.” Councillor Lee Chapman, cabinet member for adult services at Shropshire Council, added: “While there is a significant amount of work conducted nationally to establish ‘standard’ or ‘fair’ fee rates, we know that Shropshire as a county presents its own issues and points of difference, influenced by factors such as geography, demographics, historic provision, labour market and the nature/structure of the ownership profile. Over the coming months the council will, unavoidably, need to revisit the fee structure – but wants to do so in a realistic and flexible way that, so far as possible within an overall funding envelope, it reflects the views, concerns and ideas of providers.”

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Provider recognised with Fair Employer in Oldham award

Natalie and resident Cath Tamsett admire the plants.

Staff rejuvenate home’s garden NATALIE Muers, a cook at Rogers House Residential Home in Wigmore, has decided to revitalise the garden, with the help of the home’s residents. She decided to make the most of the outside space by planting some new seeds and plants, including some tasty vegetables. Natalie has created a designated vegetable garden, which will produce beetroot and tomatoes to name but a few, planted a new Cordyline and filled the usually empty greenhouse with an array of herbs. The keen gardeners among the residents enjoyed getting involved

with the project, and are looking forward to spending time outside during the warmer months, helping to maintain the plants and watching them grow. Natalie said: “Our renovated garden is excellent for the residents as it not only encourages them to remain active and enjoy the great outdoors, it’s also very sociable and provides us with some lovely fresh herbs, fruit and vegetables to use in our meals.” Once they have their harvest, Natalie is looking forward to making use of the fresh herbs and vegetables within the cooking at the home.

NORTH West home care provider Caremark (Oldham) has been awarded the Fair Employer in Oldham Certificate by the local authority. The certificate recognizes the commitment which the award winning home care provider has shown to the Get Oldham Working project. Since pledging support, Caremark has actively recruited staff from the local community. The Get Oldham Working scheme encourages local businesses to make a pledge to create sustainable employment for local residents. Part of the pledge the company make is offering voluntary work placements. This aims to give young people an understanding of the workplace and provide them with the knowledge and skills to work in an office environment. When the scheme was launched in 2011, joint owners and directors of Caremark (Oldham), Helan Graham and Stephanie Doherty, were inspired to be part of this campaign following a speech by council leader, Councillor Jim McMahon, and Norman Stoller, who pledged to work with the project and help to get unemployed people in Oldham into work. Stephanie said: “We both have ties

to the borough that go back many years and not only that but our commitment is shown by the fact that our business is based in Lees and most of our employees live locally.” The Lees based business has grown since its launch in 2011. This latest recognition by the local authority is testament to the fact that it is run by two like-minded business women who are passionate about serving their local community. “We have been working in partnership with Get Oldham Working,” added Stephanie. “We recently held a recruitment open day which was advertised on the Get Oldham Working website. We successfully recruited more staff that day – all Oldham residents.”

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Society’s staff to tackle 24 Peaks Challenge in aid of maritime charity STAFF from Banstead-based care home, The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, are raising £8,000 to support maritime charity Seafarers UK by taking part in the charity’s 24 Peaks Challenge. The team, made up of nursing, caring and estates staff based at the home in Surrey, started training early this year for one of the most challenging events in the UK in support of the national maritime charity, which makes grants to nautical charities that look after the welfare needs of seafarers, ex-seafarers and their dependants. Participants will climb 24 peaks in just 24 hours on July 2 and 3, covering 31 miles across the Lake District. The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society is aiming to raise £4,000 for Seafarers UK and an additional £4,000 for equipment for the team to complete the challenge. Last year the Society raised more than £4,000 and it is hoping to double this amount this year.

Commander Brian Boxall-Hunt, chief executive of Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, said: “We rely heavily on organisations such as Seafarers UK, who help us to offer the very best care to all our residents. “As a maritime charity care home, we understand the importance of providing special help to meet the needs of all our residents. “Our team is working extremely hard to complete their challenge and the support we receive from people would mean a lot to not only those involved, but the maritime sector as a whole.” Staff taking part include deputy home manager Dorota Serafin, estates manager Richard Condie, carer Kim Tema, staff nurse Donna Valcheva and maintenance technician Nick Potroanchenu. The home has already hosted a number of fundraising events including a bring and buy sale and a World Tea Party to raise money for the challenge.

Betty Orrell, Dennis Dulley and Alena Dodd show off the pots they have decorated as part of the project. Photo credit: Orchard Care Homes

Home joins forces with community garden project By Olivia Taylor

Arran View residents enjoy the social tea room.

RESIDENTS from Clipstone Hall and Lodge care homes in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, have joined forces with Feel Good Foods, a local community regeneration project run by Ollerton and District Economic Forum. The project has been running since 2009 and brings people of all ages and abilities together to promote independence through a range of outdoor and indoor activities. Held at the charity’s community garden and hub near Sherwood Pines, a short drive from the home, residents have been getting their hands dirty for several weeks. Meeting on a fortnightly basis at the hub, the sessions are very hands on, involving potting flowers, planting vegetable seeds and personalising plant pots using paint and pictures. Residents from the home have been working alongside and socialising with their peers from the local community, with the added benefit of sharing a hot drink and a slice of

homemade cake and home-grown and cooked soup, offered by ODEF team member Jade, who cooks using ingredients grown at the hub. Kerry Edwards, marketing and activity coordinator at Clipstone Hall and Lodge, said: “These sessions are wonderful and have been so beneficial for our residents so far. “They allow us to build friendships and links with our community, at the same time as allowing the residents to choose what they want to grow and following that process through. “One of the residents who attends on a regular basis has a fantastic sense of humour and she is always making the group laugh, it is really uplifting”. Grow, Cook and Eat, part of Feel Good Foods, provides groups with a small, manageable and productive raised bed to sow, cultivate, grow and ultimately, cook and eat their own produce. Orchard Care Homes has donated a raised bed to this part of the project, which is accessible for those in wheelchairs who wish to be involved.

A SCOTTISH housing support service has been praised by the Care Inspectorate after it received a fivestar review for its services. Blackwood’s Belses Gardens Care Home recently underwent an unannounced inspection for which it was awarded five stars for its dedication to care and support for residents, outstanding staffing and management skills and strong leadership standards as well as maintaining high grades from the previous inspection. The Inspection Report revealed the five-star grades in the staffing, care and support, environment, staffing, management and leadership and maintaining the same grades from the previous inspection categories. Specific criteria within these cat-

egories can be awarded six stars, but this is extremely rare. However, Belses Gardens Care Home can now boast one of these ratings for its environment, which allows Blackwood’s service users to receive the most positive and high quality of life as possible. Liz Peebles, manager at Belses Gardens Care Home, said: “Both staff and customers were delighted with the score and feel it’s a great way to reflect the positive atmosphere in place at Belses Gardens. “We pride ourselves on supplying our staff with the very best training, ensuring that our management team is kept up-to-date with the best practices and wider developments that impact on the local service.”

Home’s new social club is residents’ cup of tea Service gets five-star rating A NORTH Ayrshire care home has launched a new social club to give its residents a taste of cafe culture. Every week, Bupa’s Arran View care home, in Saltcoats, hosts a social tea room to encourage residents to meet and mingle together over a cup of tea or coffee. The tea room has proved so successful that the facility is welcoming other care home residents in the local area to visit and join in on the last Tuesday of the month. Those who attend are encouraged to socialise with each other while taking part in a variety of activities, including karaoke, bingo and dominoes. Corinne Reid, home manager at Arran View, helped set up the weekly tea room.

She said: “We are delighted with the response that the tearoom has had so far as it has been very popular, not just with our residents, but with residents from other care homes throughout the local neighbourhood. “It is a great initiative and an excellent example of the way that our care services work to keep older people included in social activities for as long as possible, reducing isolation and encouraging them to live their lives to the full. “We strive to create innovative and inspiring activities to provide the best quality of life for our residents and we believe that this is a perfect way for them to get to know others in the local community, share memories and make new friends.”

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Care group rewards its outstanding staff

Husband and wife, Bob and Beryl, with a lizard snake.

Animals are the best therapy at The Grand RESIDENTS at The Grand Care Centre in West Bridgford were surprised by some four, six and eightlegged visitors when they undertook a stimulating therapy session with leading animal handling experts, Zoolab. From domestic rabbits, gerbils and guinea pigs to corn snakes, tarantulas and toads, the animals form part of an animal-assisted occupational therapy session that is recognised by psychologists to have a measurable positive effect on individuals, especially those in difficult circumstances. Under the close supervision of the animal handlers, residents at the Nottingham care home were able to get up close to their unusual visitors, touching, holding and learning

more about a wide range of different insects, mammals and reptiles. The session is specifically designed to harness the psychological power of animals in occupational therapy. Group reservations manager at The Grand, Dawn Collett, added: “The session has definitely been one of our most popular events, with residents extremely interested and excited to meet a range of different animals and handle some insects and reptiles that they had never had the opportunity to meet up close before. “In addition to being a powerful therapy session, the Zoolab activity underlines our commitment to enablement and lifelong learning, keeping our residents stimulated and giving them the opportunity to experience new things.”

Lord Mayor of Leeds Judith Chapman, Meridian and HC-One managing director Paula Keys, care centre manager Mary Usher and Angela Rippon.

Angela opens new £5.7m home TV PRESENTER and journalist Angela Rippon joined staff and residents to celebrate the official opening of Meridian Healthcare’s newest residential care home, Augustus Court in Garforth, Yorkshire. The new facility played host to over 200 people across two bustling opening events, with the local community invited in for an afternoon of live entertainment courtesy of Garforth Community Choir and Dorinda School of Theatre Dance. At the official ribbon cutting, guests had the chance to meet Angela and the Lord Mayor of Leeds Judith

Chapman, before being treated to afternoon tea in the home’s Lyceum and Vaudeville restaurants. Acquired by HC-One in 2015, Meridian Healthcare welcomed its first residents to Augustus Court in February. Once full, the £5.7million care centre will provide a home to 58 residents, of which 15 have already moved in, and create up to 40 jobs for the local area. Meridian and HC-One managing director, Paula Keys, said: “We’ve been delighted by the feedback about Augustus Court from residents, relatives, visitors and our neighbours in the local community.”

A FAMILY run care company which believes it can only provide exceptional service by employing outstanding people has held its annual awards evening in Great Harwood. Townfield Care is run by brothers Michael and John Timmins, who took over the long-established business from their mother Maria. It operates Townfield and Coach House, a specialist dementia care home in Great Harwood, Sherwood House, a small residential home for the elderly in Rishton, and an expanding home care service throughout Hyndburn, Ribble Valley and Rossendale. To meet the growing need for home care, Townfield Care is looking to recruit up to 100 new staff this year and recently opened its new in-house Townfield Academy, ensuring all recruits are trained to its own exacting standards. John saidd:“We recognise that our staff are our greatest asset, which is why we hold an annual awards night. “While all our members of staff are a credit to the business, these awards recognise those who continually give

it their all.” Held at Great Harwood Golf Club, the evening was hosted by BBC Radio Lancashire’s Stephen Lowe, and the awards were presented by the Mayor of Hyndburn Councillor Marlene Haworth, local councillor Gareth Molineux and Maria Timmins. The winners were: Employee of the Year – Michelle Palmer; Quality of service awards (home care) – Sharon Nicholl and Claire Houghton, (Townfield & Coach House) Anne Marie Kelly and Sandra Docherty, (Sherwood) Sharon Birtwistle; Best newcomer awards (home care) Farran Taylor, (Townfield & Coach House) Chloe Harvey, (Sherwood) Courtney Magee; Carer of the year awards – (Townfield & Coach House) Louise Wheatcroft, (home care) Sara Gee, (Sherwood) Pearl Bazley; Extra mile award – (Townfield & Coach House) Mikala Edwards, (home care) Sharon Wilcock, (Sherwood) Pearl Bazley. Long service awards were also presented to (five years) Gail Fletcher, Dawn Spencer, Tracy See, Shane Jarrett and Sandra Docherty, (10 years) Patricia Beare, (15 years) Maria Payne.

Trust relaunches itself to reflect ‘friendly’ ethos GREENSLEEVES Homes Trust, a charity which runs 20 care homes across England, has re-launched itself as Greensleeves Care. The not-for-profit organisation wanted to update its ‘look and feel’ to reflect the friendly nature of life in its homes and its approach to resident care. Greensleeves brought in marketing firm The Help Agency, who talked to home managers, trustees, staff, residents and relatives to understand the charity’s values and what people felt about the homes. Greensleeves Care set up a series of focus groups including representatives from all of these groups to decide on a new direction for the brand. “What was clear was that the primary emphasis should be on the care we provide,” said chief executive, Paul Newman. “From our old name it was evident that some people thought our priority was bricks and mortar – so there was clearly a need for change.” The re-design process took 12 months, and Paul said it was important to go through an in-depth process. He added: “With the sector becoming increasingly competitive and commercially aware, we know that a strong and positive brand that communicates what we are about is important in differentiating

us from our competitors. This is particularly important given the rise of comparison websites. “Plus, we wanted to involve our residents and our whole team. It was vital to us to have their input and their support for the new brand.” The company’s new brand was unveiled at the annual Greensleeves Care Awards ceremony at The Oval, London,. Accolades were awarded across 11 categories including Innovation, Eating Experience, Carer of the Year and Home of the Year. The awards were presented by Des Kelly OBE, executive director of the National Care Forum. Speirs House in New Malden, Surrey, was the winner of two awards: Carer of the Year for Comfort Boatemaa, and overall Home of the Year. Home manager Heather Said added: “Seeing the reaction and excitement of our staff when they heard that our care home had won the Home of the Year Award made the past year’s work more than worthwhile.”

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MPs back campaign to highlight work of unsung heroes By Dominic Musgrave AN initiative to highlight the sterling work done by the care industry’s unsung heroes has been backed by two North West MPs. National care operator Springhill Care Group launched the high profile campaign earlier this year, encouraging the industry to think more about the people who work behind the scenes. Professor Martin Green, chief executive of Care England, recently lent his support to the campaign, which is encouraging the care industry to join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #caringheroes. Now Graham Jones, MP for Hyndburn, the borough where Springhill Care Group’s Accrington headquarters and its state-of-the-art care home and specialist care centre is based, has backed the campaign. He said: “We know how hard our care community works and we know that very often staff go the extra mile, working long hours in often difficult circumstances to support people simply because they are passionate about what they do. “I am happy to support the Caring

Heroes campaign and look forward to hearing more stories about great care.” He is joined by Skelmersdale MP Rosie Cooper, whose constituency contains Birch Green Care Home, also part of the Springhill Care Group. She added: “This campaign to highlight the work that goes on, often unseen by many of us, is a great way to shine a spotlight on our unsung heroes. The care sector has faced a range of challenges as budgets have been cut and the ageing population has placed additional pressures on providers, and it’s important to demonstrate how passionate and committed our care staff are.” Springhill Care Group, which operates three homes in Lancashire and Bristol, and a supported living service, is highlighting the work of those care staff who often go the extra mile for those people in their care, above and beyond their day-to-day responsibilities. Donna Briggs, managing director of Springhill Care, added: “Our campaign is steadily picking up support and interest from the care sector across the UK and we would urge anyone with a story to tell to join the conversation online.”

Residents, family and the staff of Silk Healthcare’s Mapplewell Manor in Barnsley celebrated the home’s third anniversary with champagne, wine, beer, chocolates and cakes, as well as entertainment from Jon Dean, covering songs from all eras. Activity co-ordinator at the 87-bed home, Helen Smith, said: “The anniversary is a very exciting milestone for us. We’re lucky to have had so many lovely residents who chose to make Mapplewell Manor their home. The party was a big thank you to the residents, their relatives and also to the rest of the team who provide the best possible care all year round.”

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Worried care providers write to commissioners about closure concerns By Dominic Musgrave Northwick Grange residents Peggy Munro and Margaret Peck with Marcela Flores, Cherrelle James and Andy Hill.

Care home’s residents explore world of food RESIDENTS of a Worcestershire care home have been sent on a voyage of discovery thanks to their taste buds. Northwick Grange invited the 30 residents and their families to try a range of different dishes and award them marks out of five before deciding what to add to their summer menu. Staff at the facility wanted to get the residents involved in order to promote a healthy, well-balanced and nutritional diet as part of a holistic approach to treatment. Foods including Jamaican spiced ginger cake, lasagne, barbecue pulled pork wraps, tomato and basil lasagne, spiced summer puddings and many more dishes formed the tasting session. Residents and relatives then voted on them, grading them on look, smell,

texture and the all-important taste. The dishes were supplied for free by Unilever Food Solutions and Brakes, which specialises in care home food. Kelly Gatfield, manager of Northwick Grange Care Home, said: “Food is a huge factor in our residents’ lives and we want to ensure the meals we provide not only satisfy their tastes but benefit their health. “Healthy eating is vital to keeping well in later life. The right spices are proven to improve longevity and well-being, while meals that are high in nutritional value help protect cognitive functions as we age. “It was great to see our residents taking such an interest and discussing their different meal options with such enthusiasm. They are now looking forward to actually seeing them on the menu.”

A SOCIAL care group is writing an urgent letter to commissioners amidst fears that providers could close due to the introduction of the National Living Wage. A recent survey by the Independent Care Group (York and North Yorkshire) found that dozens of social care providers feared for their future survival. Now the group is writing to local councils and health trusts who commission social care warning that the introduction of the NLW, coming on top of severe financial cutbacks, poses a real threat to the delivery of social care across the region. The Group’s chair, Mike Padgham, said: “Commissioners need to know the truth about the state of social care providers at this time and the very real threat to service delivery we are facing because of potential provider closures. “Providers have told us in no uncertain terms that the NLW is one added expense too far and that for some it could be the end.” The Group is in negotiation with North Yorkshire and City of York councils and with local NHS clinical commissioning groups to try to increase the fees they pay for care to alleviate the impact of the new National Living Wage, which came in at the start of last month. The Independent Care Group asked its members what they felt the impact of the National Living Wage would be. 82 per cent who responded said they feared the extra cost would have some or significant negative impact on their businesses. And when asked about the future, two per cent feared they would close within a year, five per cent within two years and 10 per cent within three years. The National Living Wage saw the minimum pay for staff aged over 25 rise to £7.20 an hour – the current national minimum wage is £6.70. Social care providers say this will have a devastating effect on their already struggling businesses. “Unless we can get greater

Mike Padgham recognition from those who commission care of the dire situation the sector is in, there is no doubt that we will see the provider closures our members predict with the consequent disruption to service,” Mike added. “Commissioners and ultimately the Government have to realise that the introduction of the NLW, coming as it has on top of the toughest period the social care sector has ever faced, is going to be extremely damaging unless it is properly funded.” The Independent Care Group surveyed more than 400 members and had a response rate of around 32 per cent. Respondents were in favour of the introduction of the NLW, with 69 per cent agreeing or strongly agreeing that it was a good idea. Most, (62 per cent), felt it was at the right level. However, 51 per cent disagreed or strongly disagreed that it was being introduced at the right time, and 80 per cent did not think it would attract more people to the care sector. In the forecast for the next one, two and three years, respondents predominantly felt they would either see no change, a decline or even closure. Over the period, a fairly static proportion (from 40 to 44 per cent) thought they would see a decline and two per cent felt they would close within a year, five per cent within two years and 10 per cent within three.

A Gwent care home has marked its 25th anniversary with the opening of a new sweet shop for residents and family members. Cwm Celyn, which is owned by Shaw healthcare, has opened the ‘White House’ sweet shop as part of its anniversary celebrations, which will provide residents with sweets, cakes and drinks located in the garden of the home. All money spent in the shop will help fund events and days out for the residents. Local councillors visited the home to join in the celebrations, while regular singer at Cwm Celyn, Luke Stevens, performed a variety of songs for the residents. Shaw healthcare chairman Alun Thomas also presented a plaque to the home’s manager, Simon Morgan, to commemorate the achievement.

CARINGNEWS

Operator invests in its staff with a £1.35m pledge Sheila (right) with Annette Cosgrove, the home’s activities co-ordinator, who was also a finalist at the Care Focus Awards.

Sheila is winning volunteer at annual Care Focus Awards NYNEHEAD Court volunteer Sheila Rabson has been recognised for her many years of service to the home, winning the ‘Outstanding Volunteer/ Unpaid Carer’ award at the Care Focus Awards. Sheila has been a member of The Friends of Nynehead for over 20 years, giving her time and experience freely, and has been an active supporter helping at many functions within the home. Sheila attended the ceremony with her husband and the manager and directors of Nynehead Court, as well as a resident, and was surprised and delighted to win the Award.

The home was well represented at the event as activities co-ordinator Annette Cosgrove was also a finalist in the ‘Outstanding Ancillary Worker’ category. Angela Watkins, manager of Nynehead Court, said “We were delighted that Annette and Sheila reached the finals of the Care Focus Awards and are really pleased that Sheila’s efforts for the home and residents have been recognised. “Nynehead Court’s volunteers play such an important role in the home and we were glad to be able to say ‘thank you’ by making this nomination.”

AKARI Care is demonstrating its commitment to its employees with a £1.35million investment. The care provider has announced that it is implementing the new National Living Wage for all employees who currently earn less than £7.20 regardless of their age, and that all current differentials are being maintained for all grades of staff. Qualified nurses have already benefited from a bespoke incentive scheme that was introduced last year. This means a 50p per hour pay rise for the company’s front line staff. First-year apprentices, who are exempt from the NLW, will be paid £7 an hour, ahead of the current minimum wage. Lynn Fearn, deputy CEO of Akari Care, said: “In order to ensure a balanced and developing workforce that will continue to drive our quality agenda it is important that we can attract and retain talented, committed and experienced staff, along with younger people into the company. “They will be our senior care assistants, team leaders, clinical leads

and home managers of the future. “Akari Care values all of its employees, and the Board reached the conclusion that age should not be a barrier to earning the National Living Wage. “In addition, we took the view that maintaining the pay differentials for all grades of staff played an important part in securing the cohesive, consistent and motivated teams that are the key to providing high quality care and this has led us to implementing the rise for all grades of staff. “There will be a considerable impact on the company’s payroll but investment in our employees is a vital part of our business strategy. “Recruitment and retention is a challenge faced right across the care sector, but is an integral part of delivering high quality care and these decisions are an indication of the value that the company places on those who are at the front line of delivering vital services and the respect with which they are regarded.” Akari Care runs 36 care homes.

Somerset Care has announced the appointment of Sarah Patten as business manager at Lavender Court. Sarah has worked for Somerset Care for a decade, starting her career as a care assistant at Calway House in Taunton. Within six months of starting her post, Sarah’s potential was recognised as she was promoted to shift leader and enrolled on the company’s ‘Rising Stars Programme’. Sarah then moved to Southlawns in Street as the deputy manager, but soon moved back to Taunton to follow her passion for nursing care, taking up the position of deputy manager at Lavender Court. Since working at Lavender Court, Sarah has had the opportunity to step up and manage the home as acting manager, and was presented with the ‘Inspirational Line Manager’ award at Somerset Care’s annual award ceremony.

Gerflor talking ‘clean’ at European Healthcare Design 2016 INTERNATIONAL flooring and interiors specialists Gerflor are set to create a ground-breaking approach at this year’s European Healthcare Design Congress and Exhibition by not actually showcasing any product. On offer will be their specific understanding of the sector, together with the benefits and solutions they can provide. It’s all about engagement with the visiting healthcare professionals and discussing the bigger picture. Gerflor are a single supplier to a raft of healthcare facilities, providing a host of contemporary flooring and wall and door protection solutions. Gerflor, however, have much more to offer the industry than just product. Their experience enables them to provide insight and advice and create worthwhile partnerships. Meet the Gerflor healthcare team on stand two, The European Healthcare Design Congress and Exhibition, Royal College of Physicians, London June 27-28.

Enquiries: Telephone 01926 622600, email contractuk@gerflor.com or visit www.gerflor.co.uk

If you have got a story for the next issue of Caring UK, email it to Olivia Taylor at ot@scriptmedia.co.uk or call 01226 734407

CARINGNEWS

Hill Care supports charity cycle ride Residents Helen Renton, Isabella Crawford, Doreen Allen, Cathrine Reid, Muriel Poingdestre and John Young enjoy the memories scheme.

Provider scores with tenants BIELD has scored with residents after offering them season tickets to their favourite football games. Football memories, an innovative project introduced at Haugh Street Care Home in Stockbridge, gives residents the opportunity to attend Hibernian FC and Heart of Midlothian FC matches on a rota basis, allowing them to relive their football loving youth. The scheme was put in place by the home’s deputy manager Lynn Gibson after the development received £10,000 funding from the Queensberry Trust and Small Change Trust. She said: “I think the football memories project is fantastic, it is a great opportunity for our residents to enjoy a day out and go see the teams that they have supported since they

were younger. “Many haven’t been to games for nearly 40 years so they always thoroughly enjoy themselves. “We knew how much our residents loved football so when we received £10,000 funding, buying season tickets seemed like the perfect way to use the grants. “It’s great seeing everyone get excited in the run up to the matches and when they get to the ground and the match kicks off you can see in their faces how much they are enjoying themselves. I think this project has really helped enhance and enrich their lives. “It is something that the tenants always look forward to, and we are grateful for the funding which allows us to give them opportunities like this.”

CARE home group Hill Care participated in a grueling Sheffield to Middlesbrough cycling event to raise funds for charity RideforEric. The event – named Hills2Boro – involved 120 miles of cycling from Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough stadium to Middlesbrough Football Club’s Riverside stadium. Hill Care’s managing director Wendy Waddicor and estates manager Anthony Disney joined students from Hillsborough College for the last 30 miles of the journey. The group’s customer relations manager Marcia Crossland and customer relations officer Liz Jones cheered the cyclists over the finish line dressed as Ozzie Owl and Rory the Lion – mascots for Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough FC respectively. RideforEric organises a yearly bike ride fundraiser to mark the life of Eric Codling, who was killed by a reckless driver when cycling in November 2013. The event raised awareness of cycling safety, as well as funds for the charity and the Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme. Wendy said: “Hill Care operates care homes in Sheffield and Middlesbrough so when we heard about the cycle ride to raise awareness and funds for charity RideforEric I was keen to get involved. “As well as sponsoring the event, I

wanted to show my personal support by attempting to cycle the last 30 miles of the route in Middlesbrough. I was glad to have our estates manager Anthony alongside me as well as Marcia and Liz at the finish line – albeit dressed as an owl and lion.” James Allen from Sheffield College organised Hills2Boro as part of the Uniformed Public Services course in partnership with Sheffield Wednesday’s Community Programme, which also runs its National Citizen Award. The NCS is a national government programme also run by Middlesbrough FC. Hill Care homes in Sheffield, Stockton-on-Tees and Middlesbrough have been working closely with both clubs’ services to provide teenage participants with opportunities to work with elderly people. Wendy added: “The Laurels and The Limes Care Home in Sheffield and Mandale House Care Home in Stockton, in particular, have benefitted greatly from working with the club’s NCS volunteers. “The teenagers have hosted coffee mornings, served tea and scones, participated in activities, put on shows, delivered hand and neck massages and more. Our residents thoroughly enjoy their company and we hope to continue working with them in future.”

A war themed fundraising day at a Rothwell care home raised £3,000 for the residents’ amenity fund. The event at Holme Lea House was originally planned as a reminiscence activity, but after a meeting with the Rothwell dementia champion Peter Smith, it decided to make it a community event to raise funds for summer trips for the residents. A 1940’s Austin K2 fire engine and water pump and two 1936 vehicles attended free of charge, and collectors also brought lots of war time memorabilia for the residents to look at, as well as an unexploded bomb in the car park. Staff dressed as land girls and two residents wore their regiment blazers and war medals.

CARINGNEWS

With 60 per cent of care homes concerned about getting their food presentation right, Ellen Brown, divisional manager care homes at apetito, looks at how to create the right impression this Care Home Open Day (June 17) …

Have you perfected your food presentation? A senior team leader at Holmes Care Group’s Sycamore Court Care Home in Warley is running the 5k Nuclear Blast race in Brentwood on September 17 to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society. The Nuclear Blast is a 5k obstacle course over mixed and muddy terrain, and Sam Merchant (pictured above) is currently training hard in preparation by running and working out in the gym. She said: “I am really passionate and keen to raise as much money as possible to help fight this disease and support all the wonderful residents and their families, who I work with every day here at Sycamore Court.”

FROM the Queen’s 90th birthday to the Olympic Games in Rio, there’s so much to celebrate in 2016, making the ‘celebration’ theme of this year’s Care Home Open Day particularly appropriate. As anybody who has ever organised a party will appreciate, food is often at the heart of a good celebration and certainly plays an important role in creating the right impression in a care home environment, both for residents and their families. Yet, our own research among care home owners and operators revealed that, while over 92 per cent of homes believe food presentation is “very important” to residents, 60 per cent are worried about getting it right1. From big celebrations to day-to-day dining, here are five quick and simple tips that will help create a first rate dining experience for residents: 1. Start with your menu Include brief, yet appetising descriptions for each dish, plus pictures to make it easy for residents

Ellen Brown to visualise what’s on offer. 2. Get colourful Colour plays a big role in engaging the senses, so aim to use at least two colours in every meal – preferably three. 3. Get into shape Playing with shape can instantly make a meal more appetising. For example, if you serve rice or mashed potatoes, use a timbale and surround it with vegetables. 4. Match plates to portions

Opt for too small a plate and you’ll create an overcrowded, messy meal that can prove overwhelming for residents with smaller appetites, while too large a plate may make portions look skimpy. 5. Keep things simple White plates are best, as they provide a plain backdrop for variations in food colour and, for residents prone to confusion such as those with dementia, makes it easier for them to see and understand what’s in front of them. On the same note, tables should be kept uncluttered. Q Advice on food presentation – without ever compromising on flavour – is part of the full range of support offered by apetito’s care homes team. To find out more and to book a FREE tasting session, visit www.apetito.co.uk/care-homes or call 0800 542 2631. 1. Survey conducted with 80 care home representatives at The Care Show Bournemouth, March 25-26 2015.

Ready, set, grow for care home residents By Dominic Musgrave

RESIDENTS at a Blackhall Colliery residential care home have been flexing their green-fingers to celebrate the benefits of gardening on our health and happiness. To mark the recent National Gardening Week, Field View residents got their hands dirty in the home’s grounds and courtyard gardens. As part of the activities programme at the home, residents have enjoyed some landscaping, growing seeds, potting plants and vegetables and picking out garden ornaments. The Royal Horticultural Society’s annual celebration of gardening was the perfect time for residents to try out the newly built raised flower beds at the home, which were designed to help make gardening easier for residents with wheelchairs or restricted mobility. The new additions are good news for the plants too, allowing the introduction of different soil types which best match the desired conditions for growing various plants, fruits and vegetables. As well as residents, the home wants to welcome families to join in with gardening activities with their loved ones and encourage residents’ grandchildren and children from local schools to join residents for some intergenerational gardening projects. Activities coordinator Janice Hardy said: “For many of our residents, gardening has been a life-long hobby

Residents celebrate the courtyard opening.

Revamped courtyard opened

Field View residents enjoy National Gardening Week. and we like to encourage and assist people in continuing to pursue their interests and hobbies when they come to live with us.” “Gardening work provides an excellent activity for residents, staff and families to share in and bond over and is something that people of all ages can get involved in and enjoy. “Not only is gardening fun but it’s also very rewarding for our residents to see their efforts pay off and have our gardens looking so bright, welcoming and beautiful.”

RESIDENTS, their relatives and staff at Connors House Residential Home were joined by guests, for the official opening of their revamped courtyard. Residents spent the afternoon celebrating the opening of their new courtyard with a number of guests including the Sheriff of Canterbury, local councillors, Trustees of Abbeyfield Kent, and their patron, Lady Anne-Marie Nelson. Abbeyfield Kent vice chairman and link Trustee for Connors House, John Townend opened the event with a speech discussing the work that had taken place and what it would mean for the residents. Following the speech, resident, Barbara Martin and home manager, Christine Devlin, cut the ribbon to the courtyard alongside Patron, Lady Anne-Marie Nelson, the Sheriff of Canterbury, Robert Jones and his escort, Joy Knock, declaring the courtyard officially open and ready

for use. As the sun was shining on perhaps the warmest day of the year, residents and their guests explored the courtyard and enjoyed some tea and cake, whilst listening to singer, Eliza Handley, who provided the entertainment. Representatives from Arc Creative, who designed and formed the courtyard, were on hand to talk about what had been installed and why. All plants within the courtyard are edible, smell interesting or make a soothing sound, while the compressible slip resistant rubber floor makes it safe. The built-in barbecue adds an element of community dining for the warmer months and the planted herbs have already been used in the meals the chef prepares for the residents. Arc also installed a large pergola, which will provide shade in the summer and will eventually have four types of grape covering its beams.

SPONSORED BY

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EU nurses and healthcare Group introduces young assistants for providers... people to care sector RECRUITING good quality healthcare staff can seem like an impossible task and you may sometimes feel that it would be easier looking for hens’ teeth whilst blindfolded. MediEnlist can help. They supply UK care providers with high quality nurses and healthcare Aassistants sourced from within the European Union. Pay only an affordable one-off fee and avoid those crippling monthly agency fees. MediEnlist stress they are not an agency, they continually develop a network of high quality skills talent from across the European Union. This, in combination with active training and development of potential candidates, ensures that their placements have the necessary skills, qualifications and professional registrations required to integrate seamlessly within your team. MediEnlist currently supply nurses and healthcare assistants to some of the biggest names in the UK private healthcare sector and have recently expanded their operations to include further key locations throughout the EU, ensuring they have the capacity to supply even the highest demand. MediEnlist understand that swift time-scales are extremely important and they have a remarkable average of only 30 days from interview date for nurses to commence employment

through programme

in the UK (this figure includes nurses without a PIN commencing initially as a senior nursing care assistant). When it comes to recruiting, MediEnlist had an impressive track record, with a 64 per cent fill success rate for the care home sector and 96.4 per cent retention rate of nurses still in employment after 12 months. MediEnlist will be exhibiting at this years Health+Care Event at Excel London on June 29 and 30. If you get a chance to visit the event, have a chat with MediEnlist (stand N40) and find out how they can help you.

BALHOUSIE Care Group has joined forces with The Prince’s Trust Scotland to offer young people the opportunity to train for a career in the care sector. Running for five weeks, Balhousie has, with the support of the youth charity, introduced seven people to the industry through a combination of classroom-based learning and on-the-job practical training. The participating students, aged between 18 and 24, recently completed their training and were presented with a certificate at the Queens Hotel, Perth, to mark their achievements over the course of the five weeks. Students have been working at several Balhousie Care Homes across Tayside and Perthshire including Ruthven Towers in Auchterarder, Luncarty and North Inch in Perthshire, Dalnaglar in Crieff and Clement Park and Moyness in Dundee. Participating in initiatives with The Prince’s Trust Scotland since 2012, the group has welcomed dozens of students into their care homes over the past five years with an aim to help those willing to get some formal training as well as some valuable work experience on their CV. With a focus on training the

students in how to be a carer, Balhousie has introduced the students to a person-centred approach, as part of their personalisation initiative to find out what’s important to people, from the care home residents to the care home staff. Jozi Stables, support team manager at Balhousie Care Group, has led The Prince’s Trust project, spending time offering classroom based training to the students every week as well as supporting them throughout the five weeks. She said: “This project has highlighted to me how rewarding it can be to help develop people and introduce them to the opportunities that can be enjoyed working in the care sector. “The course gives the students formal training along with an in-depth understanding of what a care assistant role entails, from the theory of moving and handling residents and learning about National Care Standards, to practical training in the work environment.” After learning about the care sector and experiencing some beneficial on-the-job training, some of the students are now considering a career in working in care.

CARINGNEWS

Parkinson’s sufferer works on battle against condition By Olivia Taylor

Former deputy manager Carl Fisher has taken over the reins at Burton Closes Hall care home in Bakewell, Derbyshire. He brings more than 17 years of health care sector experience to the role, with an extensive background in nursing in acute surgery, oncology and emergency care. Carl began his career as a health care assistant before achieving his nursing qualification in 2005. He has also studied at the Institute of Mental Health in Nottingham. Burton Closes Hall provides residential, dementia, nursing, convalescence, re-enablement and end-of-life care for long-term and short stay residents.

A-71-YEAR-OLD Parkinson’s sufferer is fighting back against the condition by refusing to retire, supporting a range of initiatives for Parkinson’s UK as well as heading up the charity’s support and research Skipton and District Branch. David Riley started working at Bradford based Czajka Care Group’s Beanlands Nursing Home in Cross Hills 40 years ago as the property’s maintenance manager. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 10 years ago and now assists with health and safety compliance across the operator’s five Yorkshire care homes. David recently raised £1,400 for Parkinson’s, with support from Czajka Care Group, after completing a sponsored walk on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. He has also just been appointed as chairman of Parkinson’s UK’s Skipton and District Branch for a second term. The support group currently has 58 members in Skipton and its surrounding area and is looking to build on this further over the coming months. David also drummed up support from local businesses for Wakefield woman Leanne Owen, who was

David with Czajka Care Group colleague Minda Marks who helped him raise the money. diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2011, immensely, I’ve offered to retire and cycled to 24 of the charity’s several times, but I’m always told that branches throughout Yorkshire and I can continue working for as long the Humber, including Skipton, for as I like, which is great to know and Parkinson’s Awareness Week. incredibly supportive. He said: “My way of dealing with “Becoming the chairman of the Parkinson’s is to keep myself busy Skipton and District Branch of and ensure my mind is always Parkinson’s UK is also a huge honour. occupied. This means still working at “It has given me a great opportunity Czajka Care Group, which has always to give something back to a wonderful been a huge part of my life. organisation that has supported me “Although I enjoy my job and my family over that last decade.”

CARINGNEWS

Inspectorate to join in Care Home Open Day

Myford House activities co-ordinator Kerry Young and residents Thelma Couzins and Roy Sutton with Kieran Devereux and Claire Henshaw from Severn Hospice.

Charity begins at home as residents help out hospice RESIDENTS of a nursing home in Telford have supported a local hospice with a special fundraising shopping day. Myford House Nursing Home in Horsehay opened its doors to Severn Hospice, which brought a variety of items from its shop in Lawley for the residents to browse through and purchase. As part of the charity event, residents browsed clothes, books, puzzles, bric-a-brac and CDs, raising £157 for the Shropshire charity. They also raffled off a large teddy bear, which residents named Frank after legendary American singer Frank Sinatra.

Kerry Young, activities co-ordinator at the Redwood Healthcare care home, said: “Shopping offers residents a chance to be independent and do what they want with their money. “And by Severn Hospice bringing the charity shop to them, it meant our residents were able to browse freely whilst also raising money for a very worthy cause. “The day created a wonderful buzz and everyone got involved, including staff and residents’ families. “We are already planning the next event and I’d like to once again thank Severn Hospice making it such a special day for residents.”

HRH Princess Alexandra opens new care facility WILTSHIRE’S newest care facility, Avonbourne Care Centre, officially opened its doors with a visit from HRH Princess Alexandra. Her Royal Highness met residents and staff as she toured the care centre in Old Sarum, which is run by The Orders of St John Care Trust. As part of her visit, the Princess met residents baking biscuits and engaged in craft activities, and watched a competitive game of dominoes. Home manager Esther Thomas said: “We couldn’t be more excited about having Princess Alexandra coming to visit us to officially open Avonbourne Care Centre. Our residents and employees were thrilled to welcome her, and were very keen to show her around our new home.” During her visit, the Princess met representatives of the organisations involved in bringing the project to fruition, including architects (Quorum), developers (Brackley Investments) and the construction company (Stepnell Ltd). County dignitaries and representatives from local and regional community organisations were also present to celebrate the occasion. After unveiling a plaque to mark the official opening of the care centre, and wishing everyone living and working at Avonbourne Care Centre

HRH Princess Alexandra the best of luck in their new home, Princess Alexandra concluded her visit by signing the visitors’ book. The new 120-bed care centre provides a total of 72 specialistnursing beds and 48 dementia beds over three floors. Each bedroom has en-suite shower and toilet facilities, along with access to digital television, telephone and Wi-Fi, as well as a state-of-the-art 24-hour nurse call facility. Each wing is arranged into small household units, each with its own communal dining and lounge areas, along with specialist bathing facilities, to give a domestic feel. The home also includes several ‘destination zones’, including a “high street” themed first floor, complete with a shop, cafe, hair salon and cinema.

THE CQC is once again getting ready to join in with the enthusiasm and support for the annual Care Home Open Day event taking place this year on June 17. Over 150 CQC inspectors and other staff members visited participating locations on Care Home Open Day last year, and as the regulator of adult social care, CQC is looking forward to doing it all over again in 2016 where the theme is ‘celebration.’ As well as giving people the chance to visit their local care home, Care Home Open Day is also an opportunity to meet with inspectors and other staff members who will be on hand to answer questions about CQC’s work, the quality of care residents have a right to expect, and the information that CQC provides. CQC’s chief inspector of adult social care, Andrea Sutcliffe, said: “Along with many others, I really enjoyed

visiting different care homes during Care Home Open Day last year. “But the best care homes know that connecting with their local communities and enriching the lives of their residents it is not just a one day in the year effort – it is an everyday of the year commitment. “That’s what we want for everyone living in care homes and already exists in the best services we see. “Visiting your local care home will help you meet dedicated and committed staff, treating people living there with dignity and respect and supporting them to experience as positive, independent and meaningful life as possible. “The majority of care homes are like this and I hope Care Home Open Day will give everyone the opportunity to celebrate great care and act as a further incentive for other services to improve.”

Sami Haider with Mayor of Southend, Councillor Andrew Moring.

Sami opens new franchise A FORMER social worker has opened a new franchise in Southend for fast growing care company SureCare. Sami Haider and his team of 26 highly trained and experienced staff provide care for elderly people and those with physical and learning difficulties. SureCare Southend was officially opened by the Mayor and Mayoress of Southend, Councillor Andrew Moring and Louise Moring. Sami, 44, who was previously the service manager for an adult social care team, is looking to grow the variety of SureCare’s care and home services to private paying clients. He will also be creating new jobs in the area during the next year to 18

months. Sami said: “I’m delighted to have opened a SureCare franchise in Southend. I pride myself on running a business that gives people the best quality of life for longer and helps them stay in their homes with the right support they need. “As well as managing the business, I still take clients on visits to banks or supermarkets and visit them to ensure they are happy with our care. Seeing the smiles on their faces is the greatest reward in this business.” SureCare franchisees can offer clients personal care and support, holiday and respite care, Alzheimer’s care, childcare, mobile crèche and babysitting.

Promoting quality in fire safety BAFE is the independent third party certification registration body for the UK fire protection industry. For more than 30 years BAFE have been developing schemes for UKAS accredited Certification Bodies to assess and certify fire protection companies to recognised quality standards. BAFE continually develops its schemes and has evolved into the body acknowledging competent

companies in various fire protection services. BAFE provides the appointed ‘responsible person’ with an easy method of finding quality, third party certified competent companies to help them meet their fire safety responsibilities following UK fire legislation. To search FREE to find a fire protection company near you or for more information please visit www. bafe.org.uk

CARINGFIRE SAFETY AND SECURITY

How to reduce false fire alarms at your home ... By The Fire Industry Association (FIA) FALSE alarms can be distressing for residents of care homes and challenging for members of staff on duty who must reassure the sick residents whilst they investigate the cause and turn off the alarm. Additionally, false fire alarms put an unnecessary strain on the Fire and Rescue Services, who could be attending to the event of a real fire, rather than a false alarm caused by automatic transmission of alarm signals to an alarm receiving centre (it is recommended that all residential care premises are provided with this). The FIA is driving awareness with our ‘Cut False Alarm Costs!’ campaign, which explains how to reduce false alarms. Step one: Realise here is a problem. False alarms are often caused by poor building management, fire alarm system design, or maintenance: Q Poor building management – i.e. when contractors are allowed to undertake work without precautions to reduce the risk of false alarms. Q Poor fire system design – a kitchen with a smoke detector installed. Q Poor maintenance – an inadequately maintained smoke detector can become over-sensitive. Step two: Record all incidents of false alarms in a logbook This helps organise the information.

We recommend the following four categories: Q Unwanted alarms – burning toast or steam that a fire detector mistakes for a real fire. Q Equipment false alarms – an alarm generated by a piece of faulty equipment. Q Malicious false alarms – deliberately breaking of a manual call point. Q False alarms with good intent – someone smelling smoke or sensing a possible fire. Step Three: Manage your detectors and be aware of your behaviour around them False alarms triggered by smoke detectors could be caused by cooking or burning toast; insects; welding or soldering; steam, dust and aerosols; candles and open fires, or lack of maintenance. Step Four: Manage your building If you have a problem with persistent false alarms, set a target number to try not to exceed and aim to drive that down to zero. All incidents of false alarms should be investigated and recorded to establish the cause. The causes should then be shared with staff so that they are aware of the problem and know how to avoid them. For further advice and downloads visit http://www.fia.uk.com/cut-falsealarm-costs.html

Ventilate your home with Dorgard ARE you finding it difficult to adequately ventilate your care premises now that the warm weather is here? This common problem is faced by many care home managers who may wedge fire doors open to ensure that residents are cool and comfortable. Doing this is illegal and allows fire to spread quickly through a care home, endangering the lives of residents, staff and visitors. Fitting Dorgard to your heavy fire doors will allow you to legally hold your fire doors open, not only allowing fresh air to circulate but also increasing independent mobility of residents. Dorgard ‘listens’ for the fire alarm and, on hearing it, releases the door and allows it to close. This wireless device is quick and easy to fit too. Wedging fire doors open breacwhes the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and could lead to a heavy fine or even imprisonment. Enquiries Call 0800 612 6287 or visit www.safelincs.co.uk

CARINGNEWS

Findings on benefits of TV for care home residents welcomed

The Duchess of Northumberland with The Royal Hampton’s first residents, John and Margaret Lightly.

Duchess opens luxury assisted living scheme THE Duchess of Northumberland has opened a luxury assisted living scheme in Ponteland, praising the developer and staff. The Royal Hampton, built on the former cattle auction site by Crown Care, has already welcomed its first residents and will eventually provide a luxurious home for 73 people with furnishings and facilities more akin to a five-star hotel than a residential care home. It has been designed to enhance the independent lifestyle of residents, while offering a more extensive choice of communal living. There are treatment rooms where professional beauticians and therapists can offer spa treatments, manicures, pedicures, massages and facials, plus a hair salon. Residents can have their meals in the Shakespearean restaurant and also book tables to dine with family and friends. The Dickens bistro has a licensed bar and an a la carte menu for residents and anyone visitors. There is a library, with internet café, a quiet lounge, a social TV room and free wifi access throughout. Michael Ladhar, a director of Crown Care, said: “The Royal Hampton really is a care home with the wow

factor – it is the jewel in our crown. “It has an air of opulence but with a warm, homely feel. We are confident we have met our aspiration to deliver the best quality environment the region has to offer while providing the highest possible standards of care to ensure those who come to live here or stay with us for a short time get the care, attention and lifestyle they deserve. “Each of the single bedrooms have en-suite shower rooms, while there are a number of suites with private lounges and kitchens to help our residents maintain independence. “It is close to the town centre and we have strong links with a number of local groups to ensure our residents will be very much part of the community.” Royal Hampton will cater for all categories of care either long-term, respite or day care with a holistic approach toward individuals and their families. The site also includes two threebedroom bungalows and four three-bedroom town houses with associated car parking, service amenities and garden area. Royal Hampton will eventually employ 100 staff, all paid above the living wage.

Manager retires after 21 years’ service A MUCH-LOVED Black Country care home manager has retired after nearly a quarter-of-a-century of loyal service. Pearl Bartlett, manager at Chandos Lodge Nursing Home in Hagley, bowed out after a special party was organised by staff and residents to show their appreciation for her 21 years of service and a ‘lifetime’ of friendships made. Activities co-ordinator Vicky

Bennett, who arranged the party and entertainment, said: “We will really miss Pearl as she is one of a kind. “She is someone who has done so much for the care home, her colleagues, our residents, and their families. She is a popular, amazing lady who puts everyone before herself. Nothing was ever too much trouble for her and she constantly went over and above her duties since the day she walked in.”

CARE England and Sky have welcomed the recommendations of a new academic paper published by the Dementia Services Development Centre which states that television can bring multiple benefits to care home residents with dementia. These benefits include: Q Contributing to structuring residents’ daily life. Q Providing a source of comfort and continuity, helping people adapt to new circumstances. Q Giving older people a connection to the outside world. Q Supporting reminiscence or meaningful activities. Q Acting as a key socialising activity that older people can take part in. Q Providing a form of entertainment, a core part of feeling happy and orientated. In a review of research on the use of television in care homes, dementia specialist Professor June Andrews and Mark Butler, Visiting Fellow at Stirling University and director of Dementia Festival of Ideas, concluded that television can have a positive role in supporting people with dementia if used appropriately. The report offers care home providers practical, evidence-based steps to make greatest use of the benefits of television. For people without dementia too, June and Mark state that television plays an important role in the quality of life of residents in care settings. The report also found that the value of television to residents can

be maximised by allowing them to explore a specific subject of interest in the privacy of their own room. Professor Martin Green, chief executive of Care England, said: “This research confirms our view that when used appropriately, television can be used as force for good in the care of older people. “Not only does television act as a form of entertainment for people of all ages, which is a core part of feeling happy and oriented, it can also have real benefits if used imaginatively to complement exercise and social interaction activities. “Care England welcomes further work to raise awareness of these benefits and improve the lives of people in care settings as a result.” James Tweddle, sales director at Sky Business, added: “We welcome this research that highlights the positive effects that quality television can have on residents in care homes. “We know TV can bring residents together, stimulate their senses and enhance their wellbeing, and this research is an important step to raising awareness of these benefits. Having been a feature in peoples’ homes for over 25 years, we also know the importance of creating a home-from-home environment. “Since launching the Sky TV care home package, we have worked with a number of providers and have seen first-hand the benefits that high quality entertainment has had on the lives of care home residents across the UK.”

Belong Crewe’s Experience Day co-ordinator Lee Edwards and Experience Day customer Doreen Barnett.

Residents jive away at club DOZENS of customers from Belong Crewe’s care village descended on a popular town club to shake and jive their afternoon away. Village residents were joined by Belong “Experience Day” customers, as well as regulars of the popular Crosville Club – a long standing working men’s club – where they were treated to some sounds from the swinging 60s and 70s, as well as a few modern hits. The group spent hours dancing the day away, and reminisced about times gone by before taking part in a

few traditional games of bingo. Lee Edwards, experience co-ordinator at Belong Crewe, said: “The Experience Days have been a great way to help people feel part of the local community, or for Belong customers to get to see old friends, some of who they haven’t seen for years, as well as getting to make new friends. “Many of our residents and customers have strong connections in Crewe and have probably attended an event at the Crosville Club at some point in their past.”

Find everything your care business needs SOCIAL care funding cuts, the National Living Wage, tougher CQC inspections, the constant challenge to win new business while retaining high quality staff. Care businesses are undoubtedly experiencing the biggest uphill struggle in decades. Times are tough and therefore it’s more important than ever to come together and look at how we can work collectively to share best practice and success stories. Taking two days, one day or even just an afternoon at Health+Care will give you more insight and knowledge to help safeguard the wellbeing of the people you look after, than you would from desk research. Health+Care is the most important two days in the care calendar that allows the entire sector to experience second-to-none networking opportunities and attend industry led talks about how you can run your business better. Unparalleled networking and learning Q Hear industry led advice on how to make savings and access new pots of funding. Q Give your marketing plan a facelift, attract new clients and increase profitability. Q Come together as a sector to celebrate and recognise success and best practice. Q Discover new innovations and technologies to enhance the services you provide. Q How you can implement the National Living Wage with minimal

damage to profits. Q Network with other senior care providers, local authorities, CCGs and trusts. Q Hear keynote speakers Lord of Carter of Coles, Heidi Alexander MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Health, plus many more. How do you achieve ‘Outstanding’ in the eyes of the CQC? During the latest CQC inspections, only nine services of 656 were rated outstanding. The Health+Care programme is packed full of advice from the CQC themselves, as well as case studies from care organisations that have achieved outstanding. Highlights include: The quest for ‘Outstanding’: developing the solutions Avnish Goyal, managing director of Hallmark Care Homes and chair of Care England. How do we regulate a rapidly changing health and care system? Peter Wyman CBE DL, chairman, CQC. Adam Sewell-Jones, executive director of improvement, NHS Improvement.

David Behan, chief executive, CQC. The Care Quality Commission – tips and pointers Jonny Landau, partner, RadcliffesLeBrasseur. Turning Blue: achieving an ‘Outstanding’ CQC rating Mark Lloyd, managing director, Avante Care and Support. Jane Kingsmill, regional care director, Avante Care and Support. Anne Child MBE, director of pharmacy and dementia care, Avante Care and Support. Outstanding care: Because to Gail and Robert Godson, it is very personal Robert Godson, director, Home Instead

Senior Care West Lancashire. Gail Godson, registered manager, Home Instead Senior Care West Lancashire. Limited complimentary passes for Caring UK readers Working in partnership with Health+Care, Caring UK qualifying readers are entitled to a complimentary pass to attend Health+Care on June 29 and 30 at ExCeL, London. Join thousands of senior care professionals for the flagship care event of the year. Book your pass online at www. healthpluscare.co.uk/caringuk

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David Bellamy OBE opens luxurious new £6m home By Dominic Musgrave LUXURY elderly care provider Hadrian Healthcare Group’s newest home, Oulton Manor, is now open. The £6million home in Leeds provides residential, dementia and respite care. It is the company’s latest addition to its ‘Manor House’ branded care homes, which offer a very particular standard of luxury accommodation and care for elderly clients. Oulton Manor offers purposebuilt luxurious accommodation for elderly clients who have a variety of needs. This includes ‘Chesters’ which is Hadrian’s specially designed accommodation for those clients who have specific needs arising from living with dementia. Respite care is also available for those who simply wish to re-charge their batteries and enjoy the comfort and services of Manor House living before returning to their own homes. Guests of honour at the celebration opening event were Dr David Bellamy OBE and his wife Rosemary, who have opened all Hadrian Healthcare Manor House homes. Ian Watson, owner and chairman of Hadrian Healthcare Group, said: “We always aim to create something that’s a real benefit to the local environment and to the community. At Oulton Manor this includes 80 new

Dr David Bellamy OBE and Ian Watson at Oulton Manor. jobs. “We are strong believers in working in partnership. Our design and construction teams have once again pulled out all the stops to give us something very stylish and very comfortable, which has the feeling of warmth that makes the Manor House

homes stand out. “It’s very important to us that our residents feel completely at home. “Most importantly of course, I know we have already developed a very special and highly trained care team who are really excited and enthusiastic about delivering the highest standard of care to our clients.” Oulton Manor is designed to reflect a community within a community, with a residents’ bar and restaurants, a hair and beauty salon, library and shop. All accommodation is arranged in small living groups creating a homely environment. There are landscaped gardens and on-site car parking. In-house cooks prepare all the catering using locally sourced fresh produce, and a lifestyle co-ordinator organises relevant social activities for each resident. Home manager Stephanie Dyson said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming our first residents and we are very excited about being able to make a real difference to the lives of people who are choosing Oulton Manor to be their new home. “Each person’s care is based on their individual needs, and we make sure each client is involved in the decisions about their care and accommodation.”

Care facility enjoys taste of success

AN Edinburgh care home has been presented with a prestigious Eat Safe Award for food safety. Bupa’s Braid Hills facility was awarded the merit through the Eat Safe scheme, which is run by national agency Food Standards Scotland in conjunction with local councils and recognises excellence in food hygiene and food safety management across the country. Awards are only allocated when a business has achieved consistently high food hygiene and training standards beyond those required by law. Consumers can therefore be assured that the food served in premises with the coveted Eat Safe seal of approval is prepared with the utmost care. Stephen Hagan, home manager, said: “Our staff are extremely committed to meeting residents’ nutritional needs and maintaining a high standard of food hygiene and we are thrilled that all our efforts have now been recognised with an Eat Safe Award.” Eligible establishments are assessed for the Eat Safe Award as part of scheduled food hygiene inspections carried out by councils. The Eat Safe scheme was launched in Scotland in 2005.

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Residents raise a toast to new Coffee Corner HIGH tea and homemade cakes were the order of the day as Rose Lodge care home in Newton Aycliffe celebrated the opening of a new on-site dementia friendly coffee bar. Mayor of Aycliffe, Councillor Mrs Mary Dalton, officially opened the new café, dubbed ‘The Coffee Corner’, with a ribbon cutting before joining residents and staff at the home for a chat over tea and cakes. Diane Tweddle, activities coordinator at the Countrywide Care Group owned home, who organised the tea party, said: “Residents and staff had a wonderful morning with the Mayor, enjoying tea and cakes while having a lovely chat. “We’re very proud of our new Coffee Corner.” After a successful opening of a tea room at the home last year proved popular with residents and families, the home decided to create a new dementia-friendly café for those living in the specialised dementia care unit and their visitors.

Residents from a care centre in Denby Dale got up close and personal to a collection of birds, as the Wise Owl Birds of Prey Rescue team made a flying visit. A variety of birds were part of the encounter at The Denby, where residents were able to hold and ruffle the feathers of the creatures. Holly Smedley, care centre manager, added: “Animals always have a way of brightening up someone’s day, so it was lovely that our residents were able to experience this encounter with these beautiful birds of prey. We are looking forward to a host of activities planned for the rest of the year including an Ascot Ladies Day, Yorkshire Day and summer fayre.”

The aim of the Coffee Corner is to provide a place where family and friends can enjoy a ‘cuppa’ and a chat with their loved one in a relaxed setting with the charm and atmosphere of a contemporary coffee shop where they can help themselves to the self-serve tea and coffee making facilities. Rose Lodge manager Nicola Wheatley added: “It’s important for families to feel at home here and our self-serve coffee shops are a lovely place for them to socialise with their loved ones where they can help themselves to a cup of tea, just as they would do if they were visiting a relative at home.” “Our new coffee bar is a fantastic new addition to our home for our residents with dementia and is somewhere that they can enjoy visiting while being in a familiar environment where they feel comfortable and safe. We’ve had great feedback from residents and visitors.”

Assistive technology sees 83 per cent fall reduction in home By Dominic Musgrave

Penhellis House manager Rebekah Walmsley, centre right, with staff.

Cornish care home pledges pay boost for support staff A CORNISH care home is among the first in the region to boost the salaries of its support staff by more than a fifth as it introduces the voluntary Living Wage. From April, Penhellis House in Helston will be paying its care staff, in-house cleaners, laundry and kitchen staff at least £8.25 an hour, an increase of £1.55 – or 23 per cent – on the previous rate of £6.70 an hour. The voluntary Living Wage is set by the Living Wage Foundation. The decision is expected to cause ripples in a sector that has traditionally paid low hourly rates for such staff. Penhellis House manager Rebekah Walmsley said: “We have voluntarily boosted the hourly rate well above the national minimum because we recognise the importance of the work done by our staff and acknowledge

their huge contribution to the care and wellbeing of our residents. “We believe we are a leader in care for older people; delivering the highest quality of care and nursing care in a comfortable, friendly and high-quality environment. “This salary increase will be met from within the existing financial structure of the home and offset, hopefully, by reductions in the costs of staff turnover and recruitment.” Penhellis House employs more than 40 staff and offers general nursing care for up to 26 adults. Twenty-four-hour care is provided with a Nursing and Midwifery Council-registered nurse on every shift, and Penhellis House also has a visiting optician, dentist, chiropodist and hairdresser, as well as an arrangement with a local GP surgery for regular doctors’ rounds.

A LEICESTERSHIRE care home has “significantly” reduced the number of falls among its older residents after introducing a pioneering new approach. Holmes House in Wigston, which is part of the national group PrimeLife, was asked to take part in a pilot focusing on fall prevention using assistive technology by Leicestershire County Council. The project, which also involved two other care homes in the area, saw the introduction of several devices and systems which were used to help a person maintain their safety and wellbeing. Some of the technologies used included a fall pendant, a bed sensor, a pressure mat and a movement detector which all helped alert staff if high-risk residents were on the move. Vicki Shaw, PrimeLife’s director of quality matters, said: “Taking part in this pilot was hugely beneficial as the findings showed the number of falls reduced by 83 per cent across all the participating care homes. “Over the 12-week period of the pilot, there was also a reduction of 27 calls made to the East Midlands Ambulance Service. “We believe the project has demonstrated significant benefits in using assistive technology to improve outcomes and quality of life for residents.” Councillor Dave Houseman, the County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, added: “We’re pleased with the results from Holmes House. “We’ll be discussing a further roll-out of the scheme to produce

Councillor Dave Houseman better services and significant health savings.” Early indications from the pilot also showed the technologies were beneficial to those who have dementia and similar illnesses because they were less anxious. Previous research has suggested that older people who live in care homes are three times more likely to fall than older people living in their own homes. A total of 25 per cent of those people suffer serious injuries and approximately 40 per cent of care home hospital admissions have occurred from falling over. The project combined the assistive technology with specific training for falls which was also provided by Leicestershire County Council.

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Home achieves ‘gold’ award By Dominic Musgrave A SHREWSBURY care home has won a key award in recognition for its commitment to providing outstanding end-of-life care for residents. Briarfields, a 42-bed home in Belle Vue run by Shropshire’s largest independent care provider, Coverage Care, has been awarded the National Gold Standards Framework. The accolade is only given to homes that can illustrate an high standard of care for people who are in the last years of their life. Briarfields underwent a rigorous inspection procedure to ensure it met the high standard of care required to meet the framework, with inspectors saying: “This home has embraced the Gold Standards Framework and integrated it into its ethos and practical life.” The home was officially commended by the inspection team that also commented on the attention to individual needs and the team approach towards end of life care. The report said: “There is a strong sense of team in this home and a very positive and caring rapport between staff and residents. Residents are respected and given high level of independence and involvement in the life of the home according to their capabilities. “Those with less capacity remain integrated as long as possible. The care of bereaved and support to relatives is sensitive and positive.” Operations director Debbie Price said the award was a great achievement for the 55-strong team at Briarfields. She added: “Everyone at the home has worked very hard to meet the Gold

Sharron Courtney, Denise Morris and Claire Rowley from Briarfields with their Gold Standard Framework award. Standards Framework, building on the very Briarfields and is testament to the great positive work that was already being done team that work there.” to meet residents’ needs towards the end of Briarfields joins Coverage Care’s Oswestry their life. facility Fairholme as the second of the “This is independent verification of the group’s homes with the National Gold high standard of care we are delivering at Standards Framework accreditation.

Home rewarded for its healthy food A BRISTOL care home run by Milestones Trust has achieved a top award for its work in providing healthy food for its residents. The Lord Mayor of Bristol presented the Gold Food for Life Catering Mark award to chefs Christopher West and Heather Page from Graeme Close Care Home in Fishponds, Bristol, to recognise the home’s pioneering work in offering ethical, sustainable and fresh food. It is one of only four care homes in the country to receive the accolade. Only one other care home in the

South West has received the gold standard – Mortimer House in Kingswood, Bristol, which is also run by Milestones Trust. Graeme Close Care Home was awarded the bronze standard in 2015. John Hoskinson, CEO of Milestones Trust, said: “Good food is absolutely vital to the quality of people’s lives. The benefits of good nutrition go far beyond physical wellbeing; it helps emotional and mental strength, and mealtimes are an important opportunity for people to enjoy social interactions too.”

NVISA-BEAM® bed and chair monitors ‘CATCH them before they fall’ is the aim of INVISA-BEAM Bed Monitor. With its unique technology of invisible beams, it has been specifically developed as an Aid to Falls Prevention. In 2002 its Australian inventor, Basil Bautovich, developed the monitor for his own mother when she was having nightly falls trying to get out of bed unaided. Basil and the nursing home staff were at their wits end. “If only we could catch her in time,” they often said. Basil worked on developing an invisible beam that would catch the initial movement of attempting to leave the bed. The greatest reward for Basil when

he developed Invisa-Beam was that his mother never had another a fall in the last four years of her life. INVISA-BEAM® is now being used successfully throughout care homes and hospitals. Users are passing on its many benefits to others eg no restraints; no visible beam; no hygiene problems; alerts carer immediately and saves nursing time. Invisa-Beam: Q Constantly monitors the bed patient/ resident. Q Alerts nurse/ carer immediately patient/resident tries to leave their bed. Q Reduced falls – reduced costs. Q Connects to nurse call or standalone pager.

New manager ready to make a difference THE owners of a Telford nursing home which was criticised by the industry regulator has appointed a new manager to help restore its reputation. Redwood Healthcare Limited, owners of Myford House Nursing Home in Horsehay, have brought in experienced and widely respected care specialist Lyn Mataranyika. It follows a report by the CQC which, after an inspection in February, concluded that many aspects of the home’s services were just ‘adequate’ as opposed to its normal rating of ‘excellent’. Working with the home’s owners, the dementia specialist is already making a difference, with changes including a new management team and expert nurses. She also plans to introduce a more ‘relaxed and homely’ atmosphere to the home. Lyn, who moved into the care industry after caring for her father who suffered from dementia, said: “The home has always been

Lyn Mataranyika compliant with regulations so it has been a difficult period. But we are focussed on the future and restoring our good name as a home which provides a world-class level of care. We are well on the way to taking things back to that high level. “Care is all about quality and I am looking forward to delivering the highest standards of care at Myford, working closely with our new team to make a difference to the lives of our residents and their families. “We are already making an impact and showing families how serious we are about delivering a stepchange in quality.”

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Home installs Armstrong Laundry HOLLYACRE Bungalow Care Home in Sacriston, Co Durham, provides long term and occasional respite care for 10 younger adults with physical and learning disabilities. The home is privately owned and was opened in 1997 offering 24-hour non-nursing care and support for its residents. Most of the accommodation is on the ground floor and the home has an attractive garden and pleasant views across the local countryside. In 2015 the laundry at Hollyacre needed replacing and the decision was made to install equipment from Armstrong Commercial Laundry Systems on their increasingly popular fixed price hire scheme. The equipment selected was a Schulthess 7kg washer extractor with a sluice programme for soiled items, and a Speed Queen tumble dryer. Sharon Gilchrist, manager of the home, said: “The fixed price hire scheme is excellent for us. It means that we know exactly what our outlay on laundry is each month, and we know there aren’t going to be any nasty surprises if we do have a

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Country Court Care choose Duplex FOLLOWING a recent trial of the Duplex cylindrical brush floor care machine with steam, Country Court Care decided it would be the perfect partner to improve and maintain the standards of cleanliness they strive for in their homes. With an ever-increasing diversity of floor finishes, the Duplex was able to make a noticeable difference to all surfaces without the use of chemicals. The group has already installed machines into four of their homes and plan a steady rollout to the remaining sites in the coming months. Group estates director David Hicks said: “We needed a cleaning machine partner that will look after our carpets, tiles and our increasing amount of slip resistant vinyls. “The Duplex performs incredibly well in all these areas and the users find it particularly easy and simple to operate.” Duplex continue to go from strength to strength in the care environment with a versatile machine that is easy to use and environmentally friendly. Enquiries: Call 01227 771276, email info@duplex-cleaning.com or visit www.duplex-cleaning.com

Deep cleaning and infection control in care facilities ... GOOD hygiene is an essential attribute of any good care home. In order to provide a safe environment from which to deliver care, it is imperative that cleaning and infection control are carried out on a regular basis. Failure to respond quickly to early indications of a problem can allow an isolated illness to rapidly escalate into an infectious outbreak, whereas proactive cleaning and infection control measures can minimise or even avoid this situation altogether. It really is a case of a stitch-in-time saves nine. Effective hygiene protocols consist of starting from a clean and disinfected platform, where the entire home has its hygiene levels reset. This is achieved by having a thorough deep-clean throughout the home top to bottom using a high level disinfectant. The deep clean should include living and socialising areas and then the kitchens, washrooms and all waste areas. Once this base-level of cleanliness is achieved, it is then up to the care givers and cleaners to maintain these standards, following any incidents that can allow hygiene integrity to come into question. Consistently delivered, this can provide acceptable standards that promote good health.

Enhancements to this regime are significantly more effective when mobilised. For example, a resident suffering with a vomiting and stomach bug should not only have their room cleaned immediately Luke Rutterford afterwards but also have it treated with an ultra-low volume fog, using an appropriate disinfectant. Viral particles and pathogens are often deposited in fine droplets during sickness episodes, and are aerosolised allowing them to come into contact with soft furnishings and other surfaces that they land on. They can then be picked up on hands for example when closing the curtains beside the residents bed and are then transmitted around the care home on communal touch points like door handles and light switches. This can then lead to outbreak. To avoid this, using specialist ULV fogging and undertaking deep cleaning on an annual basis, can lead to a significant reduction in illness levels within the most vulnerable. Q Luke Rutterford is technical manager at Rentokil Specialist Hygiene.

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Mayor opens new residents’ bar at Stockport home By Dominic Musgrave

Carer Zoe Freeman and resident Reg Featherstone from Whitefriars in Stamford.

Homes hold Mad Hatter’s tea party RESIDENTS at Lincolnshire care homes had some fun at a Mad Hatter’s tea party. Carers, volunteers and residents from the 15 Lincolnshire care homes run by The Orders of St John Care Trust enjoyed entertainment and refreshments at The Venue in Navenby. The party was full of surprises and treats, including a magic performance, where balloon hats were made and mesmerising tricks were showcased, as well as a singalong to classic British songs. Residents also had the opportunity to dress in Alice in Wonderland

themed outfits, with the Queen of Hearts, the White Rabbit and Tweedledee and Tweedledum making an appearance. Refreshments included traditional British afternoon tea, a selection of miniature sandwiches, cakes and scones. Caroline Dunagan, Lincolnshire assistant operations director for OSJCT, said: “Our themed events are a great way to help stimulate imagination, and enables our residents to socialise and have fun with their families, friends and our employees from across all of our Lincolnshire homes.”

RESIDENTS at Brinnington Hall in Stockport now have the opportunity to visit their very own pub after the home opened an authentic bar area. The idea came from residents living at the home who made the suggestion during a residents’ meeting. The Mayor and Mayoress of Stockport, Councillor Andrew Verdeille and Mrs Cleo Cundall, visited Brinnington Hall to officially open their new pub, aptly named The Residents’ Bar. There was an official ribbon cutting with a whoop of applause from residents and guests as they raised a glass to the opening of the pub. Andrew said: “It brought back lots of lovely memories for me as well as the residents.” Residents reminisced of playing darts, pub quizzes and dancing in their youth. Home manager Diane Cooper wants these activities to become an integral part of the Residents’ Bar experience and residents will regularly be able to relive those fond memories of the past. She said: “I am sure the bar will become the hub of the home and

that residents will thoroughly enjoy spending time socialising with their friends and family in authentic pub surroundings.” The bar area will be available, with soft drinks, for residents to use at any time and will be regularly staffed, with various events on the menu to enhance the active social life of residents. The bar will also be available for functions and for families to use when they visit. Brinnington Hall, which is operated by Ideal Carehomes and has 67 en-suite bedrooms, is currently undergoing various improvements after a series of ideas from residents and their families. As well as the new bar area, residents also have the option of utilising the new tea room or cinema room. For the summer months, Diane and her staff team are looking at a series of developments for the garden including a potting shed club for the men who live at the home. The home also boasts an authentic bus stop area complete with bench for residents to really get the feel of going out but in the safety of their own home.

Home Instead Senior Care has received the Queen’s Award for innovation on the special occasion of Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday. The senior homecare specialist has received royal recognition for the unique combination of care and companionship delivered through its bespoke model. The prestigious award, the UK’s highest accolade for business success, honours the blueprint Home Instead has created which delivers dignified, quality care in the home for older people. The homecare company was founded by Sam and Trevor Brocklebank in 2005 and followed a frustrating search for decent care when Trevor’s grandfather Frank needed support.

Forbes Professional introduces Miele’s Tank Dishwasher range TANK dishwashers are renowned for being durable workhorses that are ideal for heavy commercial use, and this new range of Miele Professional under counter dishwashers is highly engineered to handle the required high throughput with ease. They combine impecable cleaning results with impressively quick 45-55 second cycles, which makes them an ideal choice for a busy care envronment. With adjustable spray pressures and flexible cycle times and temperatures, all items, from glassware to pots and pans, are cleaned gently but efficiently. A four-fold filtration system

constantly filters the water in circulation whilst the cove-cornered design renders it impossible for dirt to accumulate in the corners. The new range offers solutions for all environments, whether to be installed as free-standing units or below a counter. Fully customisable with a wide selection of high capacity trays and baskets, these warewashers boast staggering high hourly turnovers, without ever compromising the wash quality. Forbes Professional provides Miele’s full warewashing and laundry range, with the assurance of our comprehensive Complete Care same day back up service.

CARINGNEWS

Why the Care Act is not the failure people think it is ... By Kate Sheehan APRIL 1 2016 marked a special date for patients and their carers. It is exactly one year since the Care Act was implemented throughout England. The Care Act was the biggest overhaul of social care legislation for 60 years, its introduction replaced a number of existing healthcare acts, including the National Assistance Act 1948, the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 (but only for adults) and the NHS and community Care Act 1990. It set out to re-establish the rights of both those needing care and their carers, but while many are quick to challenge its success, with a number of local authorities recently being reported in the media as failing to comply with the new guidance, few acknowledge the good work achieved by the act in such a relatively short space of time. The biggest change from the Care Act is the shift in the way we work with those needing care and support. The principal of wellbeing has been added as a core element of this legislation and for the first time individuals needing care and their carers have been put at the centre of the process. It seems so obvious when you say that a client and their carer should be at the centre of each and every decision made regarding their care, but unfortunately prior to the introduction of the Care Act this wasn’t always the case as carers had limited rights and prior legislation was fragmented. For occupational therapists, this means we can now incorporate an

Kate Sheehan individuals’ needs and desires, and how they might be impacting on their wellbeing, all of which must detailed within their individual care plan. This is a significant move away from previous, more restrictive care models; instead we can now champion one, which not only promotes the rights of the individual, but also offers longer term benefits to them and their carers. This can only be a positive. Another huge, and positive step forward, came with the introduction of the nine principles, which are at the very heart of the Care Act, and for the first time, in 2015, we saw personal dignity of the client rightly prioritised. Having worked with a number of elderly clients throughout my career, this along with the clients right to health and wellbeing is for me is the biggest success of the act, as it allows us to work in a client-centred approach with the goals of the

individual being paramount. But what does this look like in reality? We have to remember that dignity and wellbeing, is about so much more than providing basic care; such as washing and feeding a person. In order to change the way we deliver care, we must firstly change our own mind-set. The elderly people I work with, don’t just stop being engaged in meaningful occupation when they reach 65, 70, or 75-years-old and so the care plan we deliver must acknowledge that an individual’s health and wellbeing is impacted by the potential loss of an ‘occupation’. For any older person, activities, whether they be work, education, training, volunteering, or recreational, defines them as the person they are. Again, this is where we can really celebrate the Care Act, now those activities that define us are rightly being acknowledged. In my role as an occupational therapist this means that my clients should now have access to the equipment they need to support the occupation they wish to pursue. Whether that be a installing an additional bannister rail to support an individual to get upstairs to sleep with their partner of 30 years, or providing specialist seating to enable an individual to sit comfortably whilst completing a crossword, the equipment enables the activity which is essential to the health and wellbeing of that individual client. As an occupational therapist, understanding the impact of specialist equipment, and its wider role in enabling my clients to continue supporting the function they choose is something I have long

advocated, so to see it also recognised within the Care Act makes it easier for me, and other occupational therapists, to clinically reason the needs of our clients. However, more than this, the Care Act, for the first time ever, outlines the rights of the carer, affording them their own individual rights to an assessment, accessing respite in the ways they choose. Those of you who are carers for a loved one will know that caring has, and never will be, a nine to five role, and so to finally have access to respite in the way that they choose, is a huge step forwards. Yet, while there is no denying this is a big step forwards, there are still boundaries we need to overcome. In my role, I still regularly meet with carers of patients who are unaware of their new rights. Again, in order to ensure both clients and carers receive the care, support and respite they are entitled to, it is vital that each and every one of us working with an individual who requires care empower the new guidance of the Care Act. Ageing need not be a negative process, with the right planning, getting older can be a hugely positive experience. We need to move to promote a society, which addresses ageing in a positive way. By working with key players across a wide range of sectors from government, healthcare professionals and charities, right down to specialist manufacturers, we need to work together to continue to champion the Care Act long after its first anniversary. Q Kate Sheehan is one of the UK’s leading occupational therapists.

Firm signs up for NHS research programme Mark and Vanessa McGlade.

Group receives fourth top rating NATIONAL homecare provider Home Instead Senior Care has received a fourth outstanding rating from the CQC. Its Exeter and East Devon office opened by Mark and Vanessa McGlade five years ago is the company’s latest office to receive the highest rating possible in the inspectorate’s Ofsted-style system. The rating makes the McGlades the first homecare provider in the South West specialising in senior care to receive an Ooutstanding. Mark said: “We set out five years ago with a vision to be the ‘best of

breed’ in homecare for the elderly in Exeter and East Devon. Becoming the first homecare provider in the South West specialising in senior care to receive a CQC outstanding rating is our dream come true and marks our commitment to continuous improvement throughout the journey.” Home Instead Senior Care’s West Lancashire and Chorley office received an outstanding rating in January 2015, while its Wimbledon and Kingston office and its Durham Office received outstanding ratings earlier this year.

COMMUNITY Integrated Care has signed as a corporate partner to the NHS National Institute for Health Research programme, Enabling Research in Care Homes. By signing up to the ENRICH programme, the charity’s 25 care homes across England and Scotland will participate in research that will enhance both its own provision and the wider care home sector. The Research Ready Care Home Network brings staff, residents and researchers together, to facilitate the delivery of research. It aims to improve the quality of life, treatments and care of people who live with dementia and age-related conditions. It supports the Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia and the vision for Dementia 2020. Martin McGuigan, director of quality and innovation at Community Integrated Care, said: “Community Integrated Care has set itself an ambitious strategy, with the vision of becoming the UK’s leading

health and social care. “This aims to not only deliver the highest standards of support in our services, but to also help shape a better care sector. By signing up to the ENRICH programme, and partnering with researchers from across the UK, we will be taking a significant step in making our bold ambitions a reality.” Professor Martin Rossor, NIHR national director for dementia research, added: “This partnership will provide improve access to research, and help ensure that the government’s recent investment into care home research can be delivered effectively, for the benefit of this charitable organisation and its residents. “Around 280,000 people with dementia live in care homes, and we want to ensure that all those residents have an equal opportunity to participate, and to ensure that research addresses everyone’s needs.”

Luxury Westbourne home opens its doors

Through the eyes of the mystery shopper Page 46

Charity celebrates topping out of its latest care home Page 49

Page 51

Retro unit brings comfort to residents By Dominic Musgrave A NEW purpose-built dementia care unit in Middlesbrough has opened and is supporting its first patients, after receiving funding from Yorkshire Bank. The £3million dementia unit at Belle Vue Care Home – owned and managed by the Belle Vue Healthcare group – has been specially designed, incorporating retro furniture and fittings from the 1950s and 1960s. It employs five staff and sits alongside the main 103 bed care home. The facility, which opened in late December, is now at full capacity. As well as 16 residential bedrooms, the unit offers a variety of themed areas which mimic interior design from the 1950s and 1960s. This helps dementia patients suffering from short term memory loss but who have strong memories from the past, by serving as a

calming environment to live in. Features include old black and white framed photographs of Middlesbrough, mural wall paintings, wallpapers showing a double decker London bus and the old red telephone box. In the lounge there is a period fireplace, furniture and a retro radio. The development, named the Amara Centre, was funded by Yorkshire Bank and the package was delivered by David Jeffery, relationship manager at the Bank’s Business and Private banking centre in the Tees Valley. An increase in overdraft facilities has also enhanced cash flow options for the company, and will allow Belle Vue Healthcare to invest in the Amara Centre’s future. Dr Dilip Acquilla, managing director at Belle Vue Healthcare, said: “Since we opened the new extension, it has proven to be very popular

David Jeffery and Brian Lake from Yorkshire Bank with Dr Dilip Acquilla at the Amara Centre in Middlesbrough. with the patients and families. The retro fittings provide residents with a relaxed environment to live in, and minimise the discomfort caused by dementia. It’s been a great addition to our offering at Belle Vue Care Home and serves an important purpose in the community.

Brian Lake, head of Yorkshire Bank’s Business and Private banking centre in the North East, added: “Belle Vue Healthcare has been providing high-quality care for the elderly for 20 years and looks set to continue with the success of the new dementia unit.”

Specialist advisor agrees contract with care home

Specialist healthcare business agent DC Care has sold Edwina House Nursing Home in the highly sought after area of Palmers Green, North London. The home was sold for an undisclosed figure to an existing, experienced care home operator. The sale completed towards the end of March and rounded off a record month for DC Care. Andy Sandel, southern based regional business appraiser, oversaw the sale. He said: “I’m pleased for the vendors as they have been looking to retire for some time, and I’m also extremely proud of the team here at DC Care in achieving more completions in one month than has been done before. With April, May and beyond also looking very positive, and with enquiries for opportunities at an all-time high, we are more than ready to take new care home instructions to the market.”

BAM Healthcare, specialist advisor to care home owners and lenders, has announced a long-term contract to provide support to the trustees of Donisthorpe Hall, one of the largest facilities in the country. Donisthorpe Hall is a 190-bed residential care home in Leeds which offers respite, residential, nursing and specialist dementia care. BAM healthcare has been retained to provide advisory services to Donisthorpe Hall’s board of trustees to drive a significant improvement in the standards of care delivered and ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents. BAM Healthcare’s robust plan of action recognises and seeks to preserve the centrality of Donisthorpe’s current ethos, and enhance the already strong links with the local community. The plan, which has the support

of local commissioners and has been communicated to the CQC, will lay the foundation for the long-term future of the home. Staff, residents and their relatives, as well as other key stakeholders, have been informed of the plan and will receive regular progress updates. BAM Healthcare will also be working with The PR Office to ensure there is improved communication with residents, relatives and stakeholders. Timothy Bolot, executive chairman of BAM Healthcare, said: “We are delighted to have been selected to support the trustees of Donisthorpe Hall at this important time. Quality of care and the wellbeing of residents are our first priorities and we will be doing everything we can to support the home manager and dedicated staff to improve the quality of care delivered at the home over the coming months.”

Through the eyes of the mystery shopper By Andrew Long IT’S NO secret that those aiming to deliver the highest quality services want to know what their competitors are doing and do it better. At LNT Care Developments, before we progress with any site, we use our proprietary ‘Big-Map’ software to ascertain the commercial viability of the site – we look at local demographics, costs and level of provision locally to calculate the anticipated future profit of the home once built. Key to this is finding out whether there is any true competition for our purpose built, top-spec site. With all the data-sets in the world, nothing compares to the traditional human approach of sending in a mystery shopper to get a real sense of whether any homes locally are likely to be competitive with your quality offer. We asked our mystery shopper “Bob” what he looks for and given his experience of visiting homes across the country, what recommendations he would give to providers on those important first impressions. “When I walk into a care home, the first things I would note is the level of welcome from a member of

staff, the tidiness of the reception area and whether there is an odour or not. More often than not I have to be let into the building by a member of staff, and there have been occasions where I have been left outside for some time after ringing the bell. Immediately this leaves me questioning what the level of services is going to be like when I walk in.” Clearly, as a developer, Bob focuses on the quality of the built environment but he remarks on the interesting interplay between this and the engagement of staff. “As a rule you tend to find that in newer or well-presented homes the staff take a lot more pride in the show-round. Their passion for the environment is very evident. You can quickly tell that a building is well-laid out from the calmer atmosphere as you walk through the home.” Bob often remarks to our team about the attitudes of the staff as although a transient feature of the home, it leaves the biggest impression. Good facilities on their own do not make a good home, but the correlation between the two is striking from our market research. So what is the best way of assessing the quality of the environment itself?

Andrew Long “Once on the tour I like to see into as many rooms as possible, obviously if a room is taken we don’t go in, but a wander down the corridors to peek into the rooms in enough. If there are any vacant rooms I like to see all of them as they can often vary in size and differ in decoration and furniture. “Care staff may only show me the

best one they have available and not the small ones overlooking a brick wall. “It’s a real tell-tale sign of how much thought and planning has gone into the building as a care environment. If these basic features aren’t built in, there are sure to be operational inefficiencies elsewhere.” Bob’s recommendations are straightforward, first impressions count so regardless of how flashy your building, if you don’t answer the door promptly, you’ll not rate highly in your enquirers mind. Secondly, how well-kept your home is will affect your staff’s engagement with the built environment – the better it is, the greater their pride. Finally, while a caring environment is always the first priority, your home’s built environment will always be a hurdle to overcome if not designed in a thoughtful, careorientated way. Lack of facilities and smart features will show the limitations of your care offering compared to competitors. Staff can be trained but inconvenient walls, multiple floor level changes, and several staircases are harder to move. Q Andrew Long is development director at LNT.

More than just an independent healthcare broker AT Chandler & Co, we pride ourselves on being more than just an independent healthcare broker. Over the past 20 years we have successfully secured loans in excess of £2bn for all types of healthcare transactions. Transactions can vary from acquisition, refinancing, development or financial re-structuring. Now, more than ever, it is important to assess the pros and cons of each offer available and ensure the funding package is tailored to meet the client’s requirements to help them achieve their short and long term objectives. Being independent enables

Chandler & Co to act entirely in the best interests of the client, which has helped establish a sizeable and loyal client base. For care home owners we are seeing an increase in the number with loans coming up for renewal. There are a number of factors that need to be considered before accepting renewal terms, for example: Q Are these terms competitive?

Q Is my current lender continuing to be active in the healthcare sector? Q Am I happy with the service I receive? Q Is my lender likely to support me in my next projects? Q How will I move forward if my situation changes? Lenders have gone through many changes over the past 10 years. We have seen lenders withdraw from the market, lending policies become more restrictive and of course new lenders coming to the market. However, one fact remains, Chandler & Co continue to provide reliable support and dedication to our valued clients within the

healthcare sector. During the turbulent times, Chandler & Co has remained independent and professional, determinedly working for the most suitable deal for our clients. This has enabled our individual, group and corporate operators to continue to grow whether it be acquiring new homes, releasing equity for new projects or embarking on new purpose built developments. Chandler & Co’s extensive network of contacts assist our clients saving them time and money, ensuring a smooth and hassle free transaction. We are able to advise on current market conditions, industry news and the latest rates available.

Gigi Udell cuts the ribbon to open The Lindsay with manager Angela Stuart and John Yeoman, managing director of Primetower Care.

Luxury home opens its doors THE Lindsay, a new purpose built luxury care home and roof top apartments in Westbourne, opened its doors to the local community. The home, located on the grounds of the former Bridge Club, is the second to be operated by Primetower, following the opening of The Links in Broadstone in 2012. The Bridge Club apartments located on the fifth floor are the first of its kind offering older people the opportunity to rent individual apartments. The Georgian style landmark building has 62 bedrooms, all with en-suite wet rooms and flat-screen televisions. Residents can enjoy many facilities including a cinema,

hairdressing salon, library, restaurant, garden, quiet and communal lounges and Le Café coffee shop. The Lindsay was officially opened by Gigi Udell, former owner of the Wessex Bridge Club, and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra entertained visitors with live music. Manager Angie Stewart said: “We are so proud of our new home, a great deal of thought has gone into creating a comfortable, safe and happy environment for our residents, it is a home from home, with plenty to do and join in with, or just enjoy the many facilities.” The Lindsay employs more than 30 staff who provide residential, nursing, palliative and respite care.

Guests marked the topping out with a tour of the building.

Charity celebrates topping out of its latest care home

ABBEYFIELD Kent marked its new care home nearing completion with a topping out ceremony attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Tonbridge, the leader of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, local councilors and trustees Guests gathered at the site of the new facility to celebrate the milestone of reaching the highest point in the construction. Former Abbeyfield Kent Chairman and current Trustee, Bobby Barnes, spoke of the honour of having the care home named after him, before the group headed to the site for a tour of the new build, which is scheduled for completion in the summer. Once complete, Barnes Lodge, which is being constructed by specialist care contractor, Lawrence Baker, will comprise 101 en-suite bedrooms, with a range of communal facilities including themed shop and library areas, a hair and beauty salon, landscaped gardens and multiple

living areas. Bobby said: “I have had the great privilege of being chairman of the Society for over 14 years, stepping down a year or so ago, and handing on the proverbial baton to Zach Miles. “Zach will carry the Society forward in its next stage of growth and development and I can tell you we have some very exciting projects on the stocks. “I am incredibly proud to have been given the very singular honour of having this building named for me. I say this because it is a reflection of our flexibility, driven by the constant desire to provide care, compassion and companionship to older people in Kent and beyond.” Upon completion, residents of existing rseidential home Woodgate will move across to Barnes Lodge. The existing care home will then be demolished to make way for an extra care scheme.

CARINGINDUSTRY NEWS

Commercial Kitchen opens at the NEC next month

The Orders of St John Care Trust presented Dursley care home resident Daniel Granger with an iPad Air 2 and an engraved trophy during a ceremony celebrating his victory in the group’s first ‘Trust’s Got Talent’ competition. Daniel, 90, of Henlow Court, won the year’s contest following his entry featuring an organ rendition of ‘You Are My Sunshine’ with vocals from Henlow Court carer, Claire Smith, 24, being voted the best among 15 entries. Daniel’s entry received the most likes on Facebook, 447, within a 48-hour period. OSJCT’s ‘Trust’s Got Talent’ competition, which reached over 56,000 people via social media, was designed to encourage care home residents to get back into old hobbies and showcase their talents – from singing, dancing and playing an instrument to poetry reading.

Supply and maintenance specialists HEALTHCARE Midlands Ltd specialise in the supply, service and maintenance of all types of Healthcare products. We believe that our new products portfolio and over 35 years’ experience in the healthcare industry enables us to consistently deliver high standard products and quality service to all our customers. The company operations centre is currently based in the Midlands where our dedicated sales team

and customer service advisors are contactable on the any of the numbers listed below with friendly help and advise if required. Due to our continued expansion, we have recently opened service facilities in the south east to cover the London,Kent, Essex and areas surrounding the M25. As well as our service capability, we now are delighted to announce the arrival of our new range of pressure relieving equipment.

EQUIPMENT purchasers and specifiers from many of the UK’s leading care homes have confirmed their attendance at Commercial Kitchen. Commercial Kitchen is the UK’s first trade show dedicated to the running of effective, profitable kitchen operations across every sector, including the important care home sector. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham on June 7 and 8, the event will feature 80 hand-picked exhibitors showcasing the complete range of innovative equipment, devices and utensils required to run an efficient, sustainable commercial kitchen; including cooking equipment, refrigeration, storage,

warewashing, fit out and design. Visitors to the show can see and compare the latest innovations to ensure they make the best decisions for their catering operations, get inspiration from great features including the CEDA Design Gallery and the Innovation Challenge and experience a free unmissable seminar programme. For further information and to register for a free trade ticket visit www.commercialkitchenshow.co.uk quoting priority code CK123.

Catalogue features innovative products N&C PHLEXICARE has revealed the industry’s largest independent living solutions catalogue, featuring their comprehensive portfolio of over 6,000 products and solutions for bathroom adaptations, wet rooms, multi-user solutions, kitchens, accessibility, ironmongery, wall and floor coverings and more. The new catalogue is filled with new, innovative and attractive products for a growing market. As the UK’s largest manufacturer and distributor of independent living and access solutions for the elderly and disabled market, N&C Phlexicare has further broadened its portfolio of products made available to customers in order to cater for varying budgets, design choices and functionality that are designed for the user, carer and installer in mind. N&C Phlexicare is dedicated to providing independent living solutions within the home, the workplace and the commercial environment, so whether you’re

a specifier, care home manager, occupational therapist, contractor or a member of the public, N&C Phlexicare has something for you. As a total solution provider, N&C Phlexicare is unique in being able to supply clients with all their adaptation requirements with experience of taking on entire projects.

QCS appoints new registration and inspections specialist QUALITY Compliance Systems has appointed Abi Spence to serve on its panel of experts as its specialist on registrations and inspections. She joins the QCS team from the Care Quality Commission where she was actively involved in the improvement of inspection methodology and policy. Over the past 12-plus years she’s worked with the Department of Health, Social Services Inspectorate and the Commission for Social Care Inspection. QCS head of care quality, Ed Watkinson, said: “We are very proud to have Abi working with us. “She brings a wealth of experience and skills to QCS and as you get to know her. “I’m sure you will value her insights into inspection and registration as much as I do.”

Abi Spence

CARINGINDUSTRY NEWS

Snappy Tags – your one click solution for labelling clothes BUSY care home staff across the UK spend over 6,000 hours a week rummaging through lost property and residents’ rooms to find mislaid clothing. That’s time that could be devoted to what your team does best – caring for your residents. Step forward Snappy Tags. Increasingly, care homes have seen the benefit of using Snappy Tags to label their residents’ clothing. Snappy Tags are discreet and resemble small buttons, making them comfortable and unobtrusive to the wearer. Names are permanently laser etched into the tag, ensuring they will never fade, even in multiple harsh industrial laundry conditions. Snappy Tags are simply snapped onto the garment seam or laundry label using the Snappy Tag

applicator – and although they will not fall off in the laundry process, they can be easily removed using the applicator and reapplied to a new item of clothing. Snappy Tags is currently offering a Mini Starter Kit (with applicator and x10 etched tags) for only £9.95 +postage – an ideal opportunity to give it a try.

Claim VAT back on your home even if you are not VAT registered IT is true, care providers can reclaim VAT worth about £3,000 per bed for any residents who stayed in your home between 1993 and 2002 paid for by the local authority. You don’t have to be VAT registered to make a claim. We can usually find the information required with minimal disruption to your business. How is this possible? Well in 2002 a care provider called Kingscrest challenged the view held by HMRC and won. There is no cost to you unless we are successful. Typical claims: 50 beds – £240,000; 40 beds – £170,000; 287 beds – £1.25m. And the best part is that you get the money in your bank account before you pay us. Don’t forget the tax repayment is free of tax – it is extra profit.

Enquiries: Call 01233 640985 and ask for Howard to find out more.

Simple solutions SINCE 1982, Colne (Lancs) based, Richards Residential Supplies have concentrated upon supplying simple solutions to common nursing home problems. The new WACMAT® adheres strongly to this tradition. With its ultra absorbent cotton pile and 100 per cent waterproof backing, the remarkable WACMAT® is an ideal accessory where spills may occur. Used as a commode mat, in bedrooms or bathrooms, the WACMAT® ensures full carpet protection. Then, after use, simply machine wash and tumble dry! It’s that simple... The WACMAT® will then be clean and odourfree, ready to perform time and time again. Alternatively the flat-laying WACMAT® can be used as an entrance mat, saving you hundreds of pounds in rental costs alone. Enquiries: Telephone 0800 074 3749.

New housing development benefits from Polypipe Ventilation POLYPIPE Ventilation’s highly efficient Silavent CMX Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) units with Domus Radial duct systems have been specified for a new retirement housing development in Fleet, Hampshire. Keble Court in Church Crookham is owned by Anchor, England’s largest non-profit provider of housing and care for older people. When completed, it will consist of 72 luxury apartments and one guest suite over three storeys, including communal facilities. All apartments will come with high quality fixtures and fittings as well as carefully considered design features, making life easier for older people. These include continuous MEV to improve indoor air quality and environmental comfort by reducing humidity within the dwelling. The installation of Polypipe Ventilation ’s Silavent CMX and Domus Radial ducting is being carried out by building service engineers Heatcare Limited. Heatcare is a long standing Polypipe Ventilation customer and regularly uses its awardwinning ventilation and ducting systems on projects nationwide.

Enquiries: For further information go to www.polypipe.com/ventilation or call 03443 715523.

Market your rooms easier while increasing your home’s value IF YOU wish to make your rooms easier to market while increasing the value of your home we can help you. Clients can benefit by using our 16 years’ experience of providing interior design for the care sector where we have an added specialism in dementia design. Maybe you are undertaking a new build, extension or refurbishment or maybe just wish to add an extra sparkle to a few rooms with upgraded furniture, curtains etc. Artwork, tableware, decorative lighting, towels and bedding can also be supplied for a truly co-ordinated finish. No minimum order.

Enquiries: For more information call 020 8399 3091, email Karen@access21ltd. co.uk or visit www.access21interiors.co.uk,

New DishTemp commercial dishwasher thermometer THE new DishTemp thermometer from ETI Ltd is designed to sit inside a commercial dishwasher, simulating a plate and accurately recording the maximum surface temperature during the wash cycle. Designed for everyday commercial use the unit incorporates a durable water-tight seal rated to IP66. Featuring just one on/off push button the DishTemp is easy to use, and the clear LCD display indicates the current and maximum temperatures over the range of 0 to 90 °C with a resolution of 0.1 °C/°F and an accuracy of ±0.5 °C. Supplied with a traceable certificate of calibration at one temperature point (71°C), the DishTemp allows users to comply with current UK guidelines and US FDA food code requirements for monitoring the wash cycle in commercial dishwashers. Using the DishTemp eliminates the need for costly and inaccurate test strips or stem thermometers that don’t stay in place during the wash cycle and often don’t record the temperature at the plate surface. The DishTemp thermometer (order code 810-

280) is competitively priced at £25 each (exclusive of VAT and carriage), available direct from www.etiltd.com Enquiries: Call 01903 202151 or email email sales@etiltd.co.uk

Knightsbridge selected to supply bespoke furniture for ProCure21+ Framework

Beaucare’s Beauwash™ range BEAUWASH is an efficient, cost effective and eco-friendly laundry cleaning products range, specifically formulated with healthcare establishments in mind. It is cleverly designed to provide superb cleaning performance at lower temperatures, shorter wash cycles and kill bacteria at just 30°C, providing a more sustainable laundry cleaning process in terms of overall running costs and for the environment. Available in powder or liquid form: 10kg tubs, 5lt, 10lt or 20lt liquid containers. When combining

the laundry liquid with automated dosing systems, it creates one of the most efficient laundry solutions available on the market today. Beaucare also offers advice on the most efficient way to run all healthcare laundry needs and provides expert fitting and maintenance of automatic dosing systems by its own service engineers. Enquiries: Call 01423 878899, email sales@beaucare.com or visit www.beaucare.com

SPECIALIST furniture manufacturer Knightsbridge has been selected as a supplier for the ProCure21+ National Framework repeatable bedroom project, which is used by the NHS to reduce the cost of construction through standardisation whilst maintaining a consistent quality. ProCure21+ National Framework is an agreement between six Principal Supply Chain Partners, along with their supply chains. ProCure21+ has been compiled by the Official Journal of the European Union and is available for any NHS client or jointventure to use for a capital construction scheme without having to go through the OJEU process themselves. Knightsbridge has an extensive range of specialist furniture to fit any environment from health and care to mental health and dementia. The Yorkshire-based manufacturer, which designs and manufactures all products, will provide all alternative extreme fitted bedroom furniture for the ProCure21+ National Framework. Knightsbridge has been designing and manufacturing quality British furniture from its site in Yorkshire for more 75 years.

Alan Towns (left) and Peter Denham. Enquiries: More information about ProCure21+ is available at www.procure21plus.nhs.uk Further details on Knightsbridge is available at www.knightsbridge-furniture.co.uk

Ann Kreisler and Belong Warrington’s exercise instructor Aaron Williams.

Instructor helps mother regain mobility to walk daughter down aisle By Dominic Musgrave A 69-YEAR-OLD mother who could not walk and needed a full body hoist just to move around 12 months ago has thanked staff at Belong’s Warrington care village as she aims to give her daughter her dream wedding gift, by walking her down the aisle this summer. Staff at Belong Warrington, where Ann Kreisler has been a resident for the past year, have worked intensively with the former nursery assistant to help her regain strength and balance in her legs and restore a measure of independence to her life, after nearly two years of being unable to move around without help. Ann, who was diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease and lymphedema in late 2012 that left her with declined mobility, was confined to a single room in her home before moving to the village, and the idea of walking more than a few yards without help was something she could not imagine. But now, after 12 months of hard work and consistent maintenance exercise, with the help of Belong Warrington’s exercise studio and resident exercise instructor Aaron Williams, Ann says that for the first time she believes she might actually

be able to give her daughter the ideal present for her big day. She said: “When Lauren told me she was getting married, my first reaction was to say ‘don’t think about me when you’re making plans’ because I didn’t think I’d be able to go. “When she told me a few weeks later she wanted me to walk her down the aisle, I just said ‘why don’t you all go down to London and enjoy it and hopefully I will see it on video afterwards’. I just didn’t think I’d be able to do it. “But when she asked again and I realised how much it meant to her if I could do it, that really gave me an incentive, so I spoke to Aaron and he put a plan together and since then he has really kept me focussed and motivated to work hard, and now it looks like I’ll be able to give my daughter this present. I just don’t think I could have done it without him.” “There are no words that can describe how much it would mean to me to actually be able to walk Lauren down the aisle.” Lauren, who will marry fiancé Graham in London on August 14, asked her mother to be the one to walk her down the aisle after losing her father, Conrad, to a brain tumour when she was 16.

If you have got a story for the next issue of Caring UK, email it to Olivia Taylor at ot@scriptmedia.co.uk or call 01226 734407

New care planning software to revolutionise home care UNRELIABLE, inefficient paperbased records and human error in care planning will soon be a thing of the past, thanks to a brand new tabletbased care planning software product named ZuriÂŽ. Care Software Solutions Ltd, a startup company specialising in personal care planning software for nursing and domiciliary care agencies, has launched a new tablet-based home care management system which brings the management, communication and record keeping systems that are currently in place across home care into the digital age using the latest innovative technology. ZuriÂŽ is a sleek, user-friendly platform which allows carers to log in with a unique password,

access live client information, assessments and care plans, and update communications or alerts in realtime, allowing care managers to action interventions immediately and manage changing care requirements far more efficiently. ZuriÂŽ was showcased for the first time at the Care and Dementia Exhibition in Birmingham late last year, gaining interest and support from care providers due to its clear and responsive user interface, secure encryption of client and organisation data, cutting-edge live assessment and reporting capabilities, and its patient-centric focus.