Caring UK May 2015

May 2015

incorporating

no.227 • £4.75

The Number One magazine for the care sector

Association in pledges call to elected MPs

By Dominic Musgrave

CANDIDATES of all the political parties contesting the 2015 general election have been called on by the Registered Nursing Home Association to sign up to five pledges on the care of older people.

The RNHA believes the level of priority politicians give to the country’s older citizens says a lot about the kind of society we live in.

It wants candidates who succeed in the election to pursue the pledges whether they are in government or in opposition.

The RNHA is asking new MPs to: Ensure there are enough nursing homes in the country to meet the needs of older people who need 24hour care by qualified nurses.

Involve care providers and service users in planning services for the post-war baby boomer bulge in the over-80s that will come in the 2030s.

Create a new Department of Health, Care and Support in order to develop truly integrated care and pooled budgets both nationally and at local level.

Put a stop to cuts in public expenditure on services for older people and focusing on what is needed to enable providers to deliver consistently good care; Ensure a level of funding that will enable nursing homes and other

care providers to pay their staff the living wage.

As well as an election briefing listing the five pledges, RNHA members around the country will be sending their local candidates a ‘20 key facts about nursing homes’ card to highlight the crucial role they play in looking after some of the UK’s most vulnerable people.

“The number of people aged over 85 years old is expected to double in the next 20 years and nearly treble in the next 30 years,” added RNHA chief executive officer Frank Ursell .

“Many of them will have health needs that cannot be safely and appropriately met by domiciliary care staff. There will need to be an expansion of the nursing home sector to deal effectively with the rising level of demand.”

“According to a National Audit Office report published in 2014, over the five years from 2009/10 to 2013/14 the rates that local authorities pay for care home places increased by five per cent less than the costs the homes were incurring in looking after the older people placed with them. A survey by the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services found that 45 per cent of local authorities had not increased their payments to older people’s care homes in line with inflation in 2013/14. That cannot go on.”

Edward is reunited with his wallet

Popular soap actor Alan Halsall, who plays mechanic Tyrone Dobbs in Coronation Street, brought a touch of the cobbles to three Ideal Care homes in the North East.

Alan, along with his real life wife actress Lucy-Jo Hudson, best known for her roles as Katy Harris in Coronation Street and Rosie Trevanion in the ITV drama Wild at Heart, were guests of honour at various Coronation Street themed events at Wynyard Woods (Sedgefield), The Maple (Stockton-on-Tees) and Middlesbrough Grange (Ormesby). The actors mingled with residents and their families, signed autographs and had photographs taken. Residents also took part in a raffle to win Coronation Street goodies signed by the pair.

A SERVICE user at Ranc Care Homes’ Romford Care Centre has been reunited with his wallet 65 years after he dropped it at Lambeth Palace.

In 1950, Edward Parker lost his wallet behind a bookshelf while he was working there as an electrician.

The wallet stayed there until this year when a builder undertaking restoration work finally found it.

The wallet contained pictures of family members, invoices, business cards, receipts, union cards, results of a chest X-ray, a national service card and a medical insurance card.

Lambeth Palace and the BBC used the medical card to identify two places of residence in north London.

From this, Islington Council found details of a marriage between Edward Parker and Constance Butler in 1947.

That information revealed that Edward, now aged 89 and suffering with dementia, was at Romford Care Centre.

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CARINGNEWS

Lymington calling as care home radio ‘reconnects’

By Dominic Musgrave

RADIO request shows specially produced for residents of five care homes have begun under a partnership between Colten Care and New Forest Hospital Radio.

The bespoke programmes by volunteer DJs feature musical dedications for residents at Linden House, Belmore Lodge and Court Lodge in Lymington, Woodpeckers in Brockenhurst and Kingfishers in New Milton.

Each home will have its own one-hour show every month, available as a podcast on the station website.

Using flash drives, team members at the homes will download the shows onto portable, rechargeable stereo sets designed for ease of use by older people.

Residents will be able to listen in their bedrooms or the homes’ lounges.

Mandy Stevens, activities organiser at Linden House, a dementia care home, said the shows are an ideal way for relatives and friends to suggest dedications for their loved ones’ birthdays and anniversaries.

She added: “Music is a very big part of our residents’ lives.

“Remembering songs and tunes you

knew well when you were younger touches heart and mind.

“That goes for all kinds of music from traditional classical pieces to wartime songs, jazz, folk and pop.

“We already enjoy many sing-songs and welcome live performers to our entertainments room which is equipped with a baby grand piano. Having individual dedications on a specially produced monthly show just for our home is another great way we can champion personcentred care.”

New Forest Hospital Radio is based at Lymington Hospital where the first broadcast took place in 1978.

Michael Robinson, president of the station and one of the presenters, recalled a landline broadcast the following year to the former local authority home called Linden House.

It was later demolished with the site now occupied by Colten Care’s purposebuilt home of the same name.

He said: “It’s lovely to be reconnecting with Linden House albeit in a different guise and of course entertaining the other homes too. We receive wonderful feedback on our shows and we’re thrilled to be reaching more music lovers around the area.”

www.caring-uk.co.uk Advertising Sales and Marketing Director: Tony Barry Tel: 01226 734605 Email: tb@scriptmedia.co.uk Healthcare Product Manager: Bev Green Tel: 01226 734288 Email: bg@scriptmedia.co.uk National Field Sales Executive: Tracy Stacey Tel: 01226 734480 Email: ts@scriptmedia.co.uk National Sales Executive: Mandy Edwards Tel: 01226 734692 Email: mandye@caring-uk.co.uk

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In the entertainments room at Linden House are, from the left: Michael Robinson, president of New Forest Hospital Radio, Colten Care activities manager Jo London and activities organiser.

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CARINGNEWS

Ralph Cox celebrated his 100th birthday with a party at Sanctuary Care’s The Beeches.

Ralph is a social media sensation A DECORATED war veteran has become a social media sensation after a story about his 100th birthday went viral.

Ralph Cox marked his centenary celebrations recently with a party at Sanctuary Care’s The Beeches Residential Care Home in Birmingham, where he has lived for over two years.

His story hit the headlines in both local and national newspapers, but the fame did not end there with an article about Ralph, who survived being shot three times during combat, proving so popular it has been shared by thousands of people via Facebook.

His story has been liked by over 6,500 people on Age UK and Birmingham Updates’ Facebook pages, shared by over 850 people and attracted over 670 positive comments.

Meanwhile a post about the centenarian by Sanctuary on

LinkedIn received 272,741 impressions, 909 clicks and over 1,900 likes.

Many of the comments applaud his bravery during the Second World War when he was stationed in France, Italy and North Africa as a Sergeant with The Parachute Regiment, known as ‘The Red Berets’.

He was badly wounded after being shot in the back, arm and leg. After he recovered he continued with his service and received six military medals in total, including one which reads 1939-1945 King’s commendation for brave conduct.

Lisa Thomas, Sanctuary Care’s regional manager – Midlands, said: “We are overwhelmed that there has been such a positive response to Ralph’s story.

“The power of social media is truly astounding and we are so pleased that such a remarkable man has received such widespread recognition and so many birthday wishes.”

High tea and delicious goodies were served up at a Cramlington care complex as two care homes celebrated the opening of their new coffee shops. Astor Court, which offers residential care and specialist care for those with dementia, and Astor Lodge View, a nursing care home for the elderly, both recently welcomed the addition of new modern coffee shops and hosted a tea party for residents and families to celebrate. The coffee shops are open for use of residents and guests to the home.

Resident Marion Richardson and daughter Susan are pictured with resident John Reed.

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CARINGNEWS

Joan rides again thanks to Wiltshire day club

Residents at Edward Moore House were introduced to a range of weird and wonderful creatures when Zoolab visited the home. With a range of exciting animals from guinea pigs and snakes to snails and tarantulas, Zoolab provided residents of the Gravesend residential home with an unusual and interesting afternoon. Activity coordinator Yvette Moon said: “The residents were very brave with all of the animals that were introduced to them but I think the guinea pig was probably the favourite, he was so fluffy and soft.”

STAFF at a Wiltshire day club went the extra mile after they discovered that a member had been a keen motorcyclist in her youth.

Joan Keown is a member at the Mill Street day club in Trowbridge, run by independent charity Alzheimer’s Support, where staff regularly use iPad technology to help unlock memories from the past.

When Joan first came to the day club she was chatting with manager Grant Newton “when for some reason we got onto the subject of transport and bikes. She said she used to ride a motorbike when she was 19.”

Grant added: “I know a bit about bikes so I went through all the names of British bikes I could think of and when I said BSA she said Yes! “She remembered it was green so we got the iPad out and searched for images of green BSA bikes from that era and found the exact model she used to ride.

“It had a great effect on her and when she went home, despite quite serious memory problems, she remembered enough to tell her daughter about it.

“Next week she came in with a crumpled photograph of herself on the actual bike which we now have blown up hanging on the club wall. It is something we do a lot in the club,

Joan Keown on the BSA bike at Mill Street day club in Trowbridge. using technology to help locate images that have meaning for members from the past.”

Not content with just finding the picture, the charity put the word out and were delighted when a local bike enthusiast got in touch to say he had a green BSA bike from that era.

Grant added: “We wheeled the bike into Mill Street and recreated the

picture. Nearly 70 years on Joan got a chance to sit on the bike again – we think for the first time since her teens. She absolutely loved it.”

Joan, 86, relies on the Wiltshire charity to help her continue to lead a meaningful independent life.

Her support worker Sally visits every Monday and she goes to the Mill Street day club on Fridays.

CARINGNEWS

Youngsters from Rainham School for Girls with Rogers House residents.

Girls join residents for quiz PUPILS of Rainham School for Girls visited residents at Rogers House residential home in Wigmore for an afternoon of trivia, fun and friendly competition.

They visited the residential home to host a quiz afternoon after choosing The Abbeyfield Kent Society as the local charity they would like to support.

The schoolgirls put together an entertaining quiz, based around the residents’ era and younger days as well as providing bags of sweets as prizes for the winners.

The residents had a great time working as teams and reminiscing about their youth when the nostalgic questions were asked.

Lorraine Laker, care coordinator at Rogers House said: “The residents have loved getting to know the school girls and hearing about what they do at school, they enjoyed it so much they’re hoping for another visit soon.”

This was the schoolgirls’ second visit as they first met the residents at Christmas, when they delivered a number of handmade festive gift hampers to the home.

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CARINGNEWS

Dee is named Sheffcare employee of the year

Twin lambs visited residents at Southlawns care home in Street. The lambs, Jenny and Ronald, belong to the granddaughter of Phyllis, one of the residents, and staff enjoyed having them running around the home and some were even able to hold and feed them.

Manager Catherine Brown said: “Some of the residents were fortunate enough to feed the lambs and I’m sure this experience is something they will treasure.”

Pet therapy for residents ONE of Scotland’s leading providers for housing and care has continued its winning streak for innovation by providing its residents with a unique form of therapy.

Blackwood’s Maclehose Court development in Greenock recently introduced 10 chicks to the home as part of a two week project set up by educational company, Living Eggs.

Living Eggs ‘Ready Hatch’ scheme is a two-week comprehensive programme providing the tools for

hatching chicks in schools, nurseries and care homes.

Mary Chisholm, service manager at Maclehose Court, said: “The project has been a fantastic experience for everyone involved and has gone down a storm with all of the residents.

“We’ve watched the chicks hatch and grow and develop over the course of two weeks and our residents have been mesmerised by the whole process.”

CARE support worker Dee Keyworth has been named the Sheffcare employee of the year.

Sheffcare is the registered charity which began operating as a not for profit company in 1993 and now runs 11 care homes in the city, providing high quality residential care for more than 1,000 older people.

Dee is a care support worker at Sheffcare’s Castelayn residential care home at Gleadless.

“Dee is an essential part of our team and one that we would find impossible to replace,” said Castelayn manager Jacqui Blaver. “No matter what is asked of her, Dee will muck in with anything with a smile on her face.

“When our dementia unit was in the process of being created, Dee stripped the rooms down to the bare shell and once all the work was finished and the rooms decorated, she deep cleaned them all and then helped dress the rooms ensuring that they were all ready for when we opened.

“Dee has a very bubbly personality and our residents all think that she is wonderful – she always has something to say that will put a smile on their face.”

The runner up was Kharon O’Brien, a care support worker at Sheffcare’s Paddock Hill home, also in Gleadless.

“Kharon has dedicated her career to

Dee Keyworth (left) and Kharon O’Brien. caring for people and has built up a wealth of knowledge, a knowledge which she shares with new and inexperienced carers to ensure that they, like her, deliver outstanding care where the needs of the resident are paramount,” said Paddock Hill manager Nick Iwanejko.

“She is a powerful advocate for residents and will always champion best practices.

“Kharon is highly valued by the staff team and we all rest easily when she is working a night shift in the home.

Paddock Hill wouldn’t be the same without her!”

The pair received their accolades at a special lunch and presentation ceremony at the Royal Victoria Holiday Inn Hotel.

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CARINGNEWS

Staff spoil residents with spa afternoon STAFF at Stangrove Lodge in Edenbridge spoiled their residents when they treated them to a luxurious and therapeutic pamper afternoon.

Nail painting and hand and foot massages were just a few of the services on offer when staff transformed the lounge into an indulgent spa and treated residents to a fun-filled pamper day at the home.

Residents put their feet up and relaxed with a cup of tea and biscuits, while staff gave them a range of beauty services, aiming to soothe the residents and relieve any stress or

tension they may have.

John Ogbe, home manager, said: “We all love to be pampered every now and then and our residents are no different. Just because they live in a care home, it doesn’t mean that it’s not important to them to look and feel good. The relaxing activity left them feeling fully refreshed and they are already looking forward to the next pamper day.”

The activity had plenty of health benefits too as the massages reduce muscle tension, increase the mobility of joints, as well as reducing stress and muscular pain.

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CARINGNEWS

Debbie’s challenge is one in a million

A DEMENTIA support worker has kept the memory of her sister and father alive as she continues to speed towards her £1million fundraising target.

Debbie Dean, who works for Bield’s flexi-care service in Glasgow, set herself the challenge of raising £1million for various UK cancer charities after losing her sister, Roseann, and her father, Billy Young to the illness.

Since embarking on her mission, Debbie has already raised an impressive £7,000, which she plans to donate to Breast Cancer Care.

Inspired by her sister’s own charitable nature, Debbie has raised the sum through various fundraising activities such as The Great Scottish Run, a gruelling 380km cycle through the famous Yosemite National Park in California and a ‘Zumbathon’ which raised £3,850.

With a dinner dance already planned for November, Debbie hopes that this and other fundraising events will help her to sail past the £10,000 mark by the time 2016 approaches.

Debbie said: “Once I raise £50,000 for Breast Cancer Care, I'll change to a different cancer charity. But I'm not giving up, I'm going to keep going.

“This year it would be great to raise another £3,000 so that we can get over the £10,000 mark, which would just be wonderful.

Debbie Dean with her sister Janet.

“So far for 2015 we have a dance planned for November and my nephew's wife has suggested we take part in the Kilt Walk, but we are yet to look into that properly.

“This has been an amazing journey and I can't thank people enough for their sponsorship and support. My fundraising Facebook page has seen donations from as far as America which is just incredible.

“I don't know how long it will take me to reach £1m but I'm going to give it a good try for my beloved sister and father.”

Debbie has also been raising funds through her JustGiving page and through the sale of hand crocheted items, which she sells in her local community.

Wansbeck Care Home residents Audrey Bell and Pat Blanchard with Joanne Mitchell.

Residents revive tea dance RESIDENTS from several Four Seasons care homes in Northumberland revived the traditional tea dance when they got together for a social afternoon at New Delaval and Newsham Working Men’s Club.

They were joined by friends, relatives, staff and members of the local community.

As well as taking to the dance floor, guests were invited to take part in a singalong session and play bingo.

A range of refreshments was served and there was a chance to take part in a free raffle.

Tracie White, regional operations manager for Four Seasons in Northumberland, said: “The social afternoon is a great way for residents to get out to enjoy themselves, to meet people from other Four Seasons care homes and to engage with members of the wider local community.

“We are planning to make the event a regular monthly occurrence.”

CARINGNEWS

Kathleen Horner with chef David Hill.

Kathleen takes first master class A TADCASTER woman has taken her first cooking master class thanks to regional catering provider Cater Plus.

Retired carer Kathleen Horner from Popple Well Springs, a Hanover Extra Care scheme, was joined by four Cater Plus chefs who were recently awarded accolades for being the best in their class during a national competition arranged by the catering provider.

Since moving to the estate in 2011 Kathleen regularly takes part in many of the activities and regularly holds small dinner parties for friends and family.

She particularly enjoys baking cakes

and fresh bread and has aspirations to cook just like her favourite celebrity chef Marco Pierre White.

Kathleen said: “When I first heard that I would be attending the master class I felt very excited but a little intimidated. Over the last 20 years I have watched various television master chefs who often displayed very little patience with their students. “They were very patient and have taught me a few tricks of the trade, which I cant wait to put to the test.�

After the masterclass Kathleen and residents from Popple Well Springs were treated to a three-course gala dinner.

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CARINGNEWS

TripAdvisor style website to put care standards under spotlight

By Dominic Musgrave RESIDENTS of care homes and their families are now able review the quality of care they receive in a pioneering new scheme to improve and celebrate standards of care across Gwent – named ‘Think About Me: Good Care Guide’.

Launching the scheme, health and social services minister Mark Drakeford, said: “Choosing a care home is a decision that sometimes has to be made quickly and often in stressful and difficult circumstances.

“I want to make sure that when people move into a care home they do so as the result of a positive choice and that living there should be a positive experience.

“I’m pleased to launch this new initiative, which will encourage people to review the service they receive and enable them to contribute to the provision of information for other vulnerable people requiring care and support.

“This combines the active engagement of existing residents and their families in improving the quality of the service and sharing the benefits of this information with others.”

The idea for the scheme was originally driven by relatives of older people already living in care homes sharing their feelings with a volunteer service called Care Home ‘Ask and Talk’ (C.H.A.aT).

They partnered with Good Care

Guide, the well-established TripAdvisor style website for the care industry, to facilitate the scheme and make it easy for families to review and research specific care homes online.

Now families across the region will be able to leave feedback on a home at the click of a button and those looking for care will be able to make an informed decision based on others’ reviews.

The nine-month pilot scheme is funded by the Health Technology Challenge Wales Awards with the hope that the scheme will be expanded across Wales.

Andy Major, director of Good Care Guide, added: “Finding care for a loved one can be a real minefield, so having a one-stop shop to turn to where families and friends have already given their genuine views on something is invaluable.

“This pilot will give older people and their families more of a say about the care they receive. It will highlight to care homes where they can make improvements, whilst also letting them celebrate that which they already do well.”

The aim of the scheme is to improve the quality and perceptions of eldercare provision in Gwent, as well as increasing much-needed transparency across the sector.

The scheme has already seen 78 local nursing and residential homes sign up.

Maria Mallaband chairman and CEO Phil Burgan recently climbed the three largest mountains in Great Britain – Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in The Lake District and Snowdon in Wales. Having completed the same challenge 44 years ago when he was 19, despite his £50 mini breaking down three times on the M6 with water in the electrics, Phil completed the feat in just short of 24 hours, raising money for The Prince's Trust in the process.

Phil is pictured with renowned adventurer James Ketchell, who did the challenge with him. James has previously climbed Everest, rowed across the Atlantic and cycled across the USA. This summer he is rowing across the Indian Ocean.

Home wins UK-wide competition AN Ayrshire care home has scooped the top prize in a UK-wide poster competition run by a leading charity.

Bupa’s Arran View care home in Saltcoats secured first place for its “Keep the party going all life long” poster as part of a competition for Six Point Foundation.

For its winning effort the care home will pick up a £500 donation towards a charity of its choice which benefits older people – and will also receive a £200 voucher to use in a local shop.

Activity coordinator Dailin Spence worked with residents on the Arran

View design, praised for its innovation and creativity.

Arran View manager Sue Kedley said: “Everyone at the home was over the moon when we found out we won the competition. It’s a fantastic accomplishment for the residents and the home – and we can’t wait to have our winning entry on display.”

The poster competition was set up

by Six Point Foundation to give people the opportunity to think about, and celebrate, what is, and can be, done to make all older people’s (age 70+) lives better.

Advertiser’s announcement

Who are we really discriminating against?

By Jane Pollard WHEN training for overseas staff in care specific English is discussed, managers often say: “It’ll look like I am discriminating against this group of staff”.

To which I reply: “But aren’t we discriminating against the service users when they can't talk properly to or understand their carers? Staff need to be able to use role related English.”

During some training to assist service users to move or be lifted, I asked the three Romanian carers if I could go over the appropriate English.

One of the carers answered enthusiastically, “Yes, please, we don't learn those expressions in class.” I think she just proved the point!

The other common reply from managers is: “Other staff, whose first language is English, may feel we're providing extra training unfairly.”

To which the answer must be: “Isn’t this essential training to fulfil the caring role properly? The English used in the care context is so different from

general English.”

If this training need was identified in the interview process, then those elements would become a mandatory requirement of the probationary assessment.

Up to 50 per cent of healthcare staff in residential or domiciliary care organisations speak English as a second or third language.

For the sake of service users, the overseas staff themselves and their fellow team members, not to mention the standard of care, why can’t we honour the need for language training? The onus to improve speaking and comprehension must fairly be placed on both employer and staff member.

If this problem is not addressed, the matter of achieving the new Care Certificate will be further complicated.

Staff, whose English is not care specific, will find completing the qualification, without the necessary expressions and understanding, very difficult.

If they are initially supported at the language level, the employer will spend less time, and money, assisting them to complete paperwork.

Many employers say they are experienced in medical and care matters but don't know how to approach this language problem simply.

The problem is there but with a small amount of advice they can solve it systematically, often in the name of improving team communication.

Of course, any staff training sessions provided must also be targeted, and bespoke, in order to make maximum use of time and financial resources.

Good care needs good communication and that means using language that’s readily understood by all concerned!

Jane Pollard is the founder of About English, a company providing English and communication training for healthcare staff. To find out more, email jp.aboutenglish@yahoo.com, call 07989 158539 or visit www.about english.co.uk

Jane Pollard

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CARINGNEWS

Home’s hair salon turned into a ‘tranquil paradise’ for residents

By Dominic Musgrave

Caremark (Barnsley) has celebrated care worker Susan Winter receiving her Dementia Champion qualification and certificate. Susan’s training was delivered

by Barnsley Council’s Workforce Development Team and her qualification follows a year of hard work and training.

Of the original 15 candidates on the training programme, only four qualified, one of which was Susan. She said: “It has been a fantastic experience for me. I have found it very challenging and incredibly rewarding; I am passionate about this subject and making a difference to people’s lives in our community.”

Susan is pictured with her certificate.

A ST Helens care home’s hair salon has been transformed into a ‘tranquil paradise’ offering visiting clients the opportunity to experience hair, beauty and holistic treatments.

Originally used by visiting hairdressers for people living at Stocks Hall St Helens, ‘The Salon’ was previously utilised for the cutting and styling of hair.

It has now been transformed and provides a unique, tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. With the lights dimmed, candles flickering and the soothing sounds of relaxing music you are instantly made to feel at ease.

Laraine Prescott, events and activities planner, said “The Salon has really come into its own, it is now a hive of activity, offering great opportunity to socialise, reminisce with others and relax.”

It offers a complete salon package, popular treatments include manicures, nail design, facials and massages. Typically quick but extremely relaxing, these treatments provide a wealth of benefits such as improved finger and wrist range of motion, enhanced circulation and rehabilitation of injuries.

Assisting in the overall well-being of people living at the Home, The Salon also provides Reiki Therapy and

Laraine Prescott in ‘The Salon’ at Stocks Hall St Helens.

Crystal Healing which are known to enhance a person’s health and wellbeing.

These types of holistic treatments are not intended to replace traditional medicines which are vital in the treatment of dementia sufferers, but can complement existing treatments by helping to reduce depression, stress and anxiety.

Laraine added: “Reiki is a gentle, yet powerful form of healing, utilising subtle energies to bring about health and well-being for the receiver; it has

the effect of inducing deep relaxation.

“In Alzheimer’s or dementia, insecurity and agitation are common states affecting sufferer’s so using Reiki to bring about a relaxed state is very beneficial.”

“Crystal Therapy combined with massage promotes feelings of wellbeing which will bring about the desired effect quickly and stablise it for longer than other similar treatments, whether the goal is relaxation, serenity, focused attention or renewed vigour.”

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CARINGUNIFORMS AND WORKWEAR

Uniforms create identity and a professional staff image

By Gilly Storer WEARING uniforms in residential care has often been debated, with opinion ranging from a non-uniform approach to a more formal image.

Those that prefer the non-uniform approach often cite a desire to create a home-from-home environment.

For others, uniforms play an important role in staff protection and identity and can be tied into the endorsement of an organisation’s brand image.

Clearly uniforms are an effective way to create staff identity helping to provide clarity for residents, visitors and other staff members. In turn, this often helps to confirm a staff member’s role and general areas of responsibility, leading to improved confidence and trust.

Like other garments, uniforms have come a long way and the range of styles, fabrics and colours is ever greater.

An important choice is between a clinical appearance, using tunics traditionally worn by nursing staff and a growing range of less formal options which offer a more relaxed look while retaining a smart, distinctive identity and staff protection.

Fabric is another choice. Polycotton remains the best solution for cost effectiveness, ease of maintenance and longevity.

Many styles are now available in a Flexi-Stretch polycotton for additional movement and in either regular weight fabric or a lightweight polycotton which is particularly useful to help keep staff cool and comfortable in a warm environment.

Sourcing garments from a professional uniform provider will ensure that they have been designed for the role. This means that they can be laundered at high temperature for effective cleansing and infection control, and in fabrics that will maintain their appearance despite constant wear.

Your supplier will also ensure continuity of supply and offer a wide range of sizes to clothe your entire team and future new starters.

To help make an informed choice you can request samples to discuss with your team and to see the quality of the garments prior to purchase.

Your provider will also be on hand to advise on the best way to size your team and ensure orders are accurate to avoid disappointment.

Gilly Storer is head of sales and marketing at Meltemi Ltd.

Dencowear joins forces with student for uniform research DENCOWEAR teamed up with Josiane Souma of Leeds University to gain insight on the importance of modern uniforms for care homes.

Throughout the study, it was found that the modern uniform for care home staff is becoming increasingly more important and hugely impacts where people choose to place their family members.

The research report concluded that it is essential for care homes to invest in branding in order to improve the appearance of staff and differentiate themselves from the competitors.

Josiane’s research also found that

job satisfaction and performance in a caring role is influenced by the investment in staff uniforms and suitable equipment to perform their full capacity.

She said: “Our study found that staff with modern uniforms are happier and more satisfied with it; positively influencing their mood and performance.”

The research undertaken by Josiane saw her gather data by use of in depth interviews and focus groups with care managers, staff and residents from a cross section of care homes in the Leeds area.

The complete uniform solution WELL established provider of nurses uniforms and workwear since 1861, British Uniforms Direct (Sales) offer the complete solution in workwear and nurses uniforms.

All garments are quality made and imported garments are finished in

the UK to the highest standard.

After discussing your requirements British Uniforms Direct (Sales) are prepared to send you a garment for a nominal price, postage paid, for you to inspect. Quality can only be seen to be believed.

Award winning door signs – direct FOR award winning, top quality room and Resident’s door signs be sure to look at the Badgemaster range. It’s already the choice of 1,000’s of Residential & Nursing Homes.

There are gold or silver plates with smart, replaceable engraved inserts – clear, durable and easily changed.

Choose from two sizes (25mm x 200mm or 50mm x 200mm), now

with handy end-stops that make for secure, tamper-proof identification of room use or occupier.

Just let Badgemaster know your requirements, e.g. name of room or name of room user. Your handsome doorplates should be with you in five days or less. If room use or details change, the service for replacement inserts is just as quick and efficient.

CARINGUNIFORMS AND WORKWEAR

Partnership approach to cleaning can beat cross-contamination MAINTAINING consistent standards of cleanliness and hygiene across healthcare facilities can be a challenging task. This is even more so for organisations such as the NHS, where individual Trusts are made up of multiple sites, often serviced by the same cleaning provider. Ensuring a suitable level of hygiene is imperative for healthcare providers, not only because of the need to implement an efficient process throughout all sites, but also due to the specific cleaning requirements and dynamics that each clinical or patient area embodies.

It might be assumed that the procurement of products and services is clear-cut when dealing with multiple sites, with products being centrally sourced and delivered as part of a unified approach. However, the process can be more complex than this as the individual requirements of each site means they run almost as their own entity, taking into consideration the various opinions and feedback from staff working at ward level and on the ground. Here there is a risk that single sites deal directly with local suppliers on a one-to-one basis.

However, for larger consolidated suppliers, there is still an opportunity to service multiple sites as part of one contract and also sufficiently meet the needs of separate departments and facilities. Nevertheless, achieving this requires suppliers to pro-actively make efforts to forge direct relationships with decision makers at each site (as well as the wider procurement team) to ensure their needs can be anticipated with timely suggested solutions and recommendations.

Achieving this also requires an indepth understanding of how the overall healthcare sector works and the issues it faces with regards to maintaining hygiene. Just one example of this can be found in a recent study that showed 49 per cent of hospital professionals did not wash their uniforms at the recommended temperature of 60 °C. This has been found to significantly increase the risk of cross-contamination where bacteria are carried in workwear textiles from one area to

another, which can cause the spread of infections. Washing at the temperature required to eliminate this bacteria is therefore vital.

Of course, the issue of cross-contamination applies to far more than just workwear, with regular and thorough hand washing being crucial to prevention. The transfer of harmful bacteria from the kitchen to ward areas and vice versa, as well as through the re-use of medical instruments that have not been sufficiently cleaned, are just two of the numerous ways in which cross-contamination can take place.

Suppliers with contracts covering multiple healthcare sites must therefore recognise the key role they can play in ensuring that cross-contamination doesn’t occur as a result of the way in which their cleaning operatives work, or indeed anyone within a healthcare facility using their products. Primarily, it is vital that regular training on the correct way to use products is implemented by the supplier. The survey above suggests that for those that did not wash their workwear at the right temperature, the correct guidance had been issued but clearly not followed through.

As well as bacterial spread, cleaning operatives should also be well aware of spread of disease and appreciate the importance of using recommended disinfectants. Simple processes such as changing gloves or washing hands thoroughly with anti-bacterial soap before moving onto clean anywhere or anything else must also be followed.

However, as part of a system of open communication between the customer and supplier, healthcare providers must play their part by relaying ‘insider’ advice to their cleaning suppliers on how to use specific products in the best way possible.

For suppliers, instigating this level of dialogue allows them go beyond simply supplying products or a service as part of their offering, and in turn become known as a company that can assist their customers in meeting key objectives.

23

CARINGLAUNDRY, HYGIENE AND CLEANING

Established company provides dedicated laundry service MILLERS (UK) Ltd has been established for over 23 years and is a national organisation providing a dedicated service to the commercial and domestic catering and laundry industry.

A single point of contact for the customer, managing all aspects of electrical or gas catering, laundry equipment, detergent sales, service & repairs throughout the UK. We are committed to continuous improvement and positive innovation within your industry and are confident in providing all new and existing customers with a reliable, courteous and value for money service.

Millers offer a wide range of products and appliances and are now very proud to be able to also offer MIELE appliances having been awarded the

MIELE Professional Dealership.

Enquiries: Telephone 0800 0853 573 or call www.millersuk.co.uk

Home relies on Armstrong to keep its laundry working RAYNER House is a residential care home next to the Spire Parkway hospital in Solihull, which opened in 1984.

The laundry at the home is equipped by Armstrong Commercial Laundry Systems on a fixed rate (ie: inflation proof) hire agreement.

It is generally operated by a laundry assistant during the working week, but carers will also often put a wash on if it’s needed in the evenings or over the weekends, so the equipment is generally working around six hours a day.

It handles all the laundry generated by the home, including bedding, towels, table linen and residents’ personal laundry. The needs of some of the residents mean that some laundry requires a disinfection cycle. In addition, the laundry has recently started offering a paid-for service to the residents of Yew Trees, a supported housing development of 40 studio flatlets on the same site who, some of whom, although having their own facilities prefer to have their laundry done for them.

The laundry comprises an Amazon HSF 8kg washer, a Schulthess 7kg washer and a Huebsch tumble dryer.

Enquiries: Telephone 01635 263410 or visit www.armstrong-laundry.co.uk

New Allergen-Free range CAMBRO released its new AllergenFree product range during the recent Allergen Awareness Week.

It is estimated that one in four people in the UK are affected by allergies.

The elderly are often more susceptible and, as such, allergen avoidance is essential for managing potentially life-threatening reactions and the care industry needs to comply with new regulations to ensure the safety of their customers.

Brian Lavelle, Cambro UK sales manager, said: “At the end of 2014 the EU brought in new food labelling legislations that requires food providers to declare the presence of allergens in their products. With Cambro’s new Allergen-Free range you can separate

food before and after the preparation process, allowing care homes easily to meet legislation and incorporate allergen-free options into their menu.”

Cambro offers food operators a simple way to meet their customer’s special dietary needs. By identifying and isolating allergens from non-allergenic food ingredients and products, the colour-coded system allows chefs to easily implement food allergen control.

The extensive Allergen-Free range is available now and designed to prevent cross-contamination, including personalised containers, measuring cups, allergen-free dissolvable labels and trays.

Experienced firm is a leading laundry equipment provider WITH over 40 years’ experience, PHS Laundryserv is one of the UK’s leading providers of commercial on-site laundry equipment.

Supplying anything from coin operated washers and dryers in various capacities, to auto-dosing detergent systems, finishing equipment and a wide range of laundry supplies, we have an option to suit your needs, no matter the size of your care home’s laundry.

With our flexible purchase, lease and rental options, combined with a 24/7 customer support helpline,

seven day service cover and eighthour response, we provide a complete, reliable service, minimising equipment downtime and cutting business costs in the long run.

This is all made possible with our professional, Gas Safe registered engineers operating throughout the UK, offering a coverage that’s truly nationwide.

We serve thousands of satisfied customers, from care homes and hospitals to hairdressing salons and launderettes, so why not see what we can do for your laundry.

25

27

CARINGNEWS

Belong Macclesfield residents challenge staff to keep fit

By Dominic Musgrave PEOPLE living in Belong Macclesfield have experienced such positive results from their exercise programmes in the community care village that they issued a challenge for staff to join them in the gym and try to keep up.

Over 50 members of staff so far have visited the exercise studio and tried to match the efforts of the customers they are caring for, highlighting the fitness levels that regular users of the service have achieved. Caroline Ray, general manager at Belong Macclesfield, exercised with Joe Smith, who is 90 years old and now lives in the care village.

Barbara Tait, fitness instructor at Belong Macclesfield, said: "Part of the Belong exercise service is to educate residents, their families and the staff that work with them about the benefits of regular exercise, because people that understand the value of our programmes have a better motivation to keep fit. That was where the idea of the challenge came from.

“The best way for staff here to fully appreciate the effort that we're expecting of residents in the exercise studio is to experience it for themselves. Staff that feel the benefits of regular exercise are better empow-

Resident Joe Smith and general manager Caroline Ray. ered to encourage residents to do the same.”

The exercise studio in Belong Macclesfield is equipped with specialist equipment for older people, and sessions are supervised by specially qualified instructors.

Proven benefits of regular exercise include decreasing stiffness and pain,

lower blood pressure, improved memory, sleep patterns and mood.

Regular exercise has also been proven to delay the onset of dementia.

The Belong Macclesfield exercise studio offers a friendly, person-centred approach to exercise, designed for mature customers as an alternative to traditional gyms.

Care provider Barchester Healthcare has appointed Caroline Baker its new director of dementia services. Formerly director of dementia care at Four Seasons Healthcare, Caroline brings with her a wealth of experience and specialist knowledge. Her numerous achievements include winning the lifetime achievement award in 2013 at the National Dementia Awards and publishing a book in November 2014 on developing excellent care for people living with dementia in care homes. She said: “Everyone I have had contact with so far at Barchester has been so welcoming and shares the same person-centred ethos that is central to my approach to dementia care.”

29

CARINGNEWS

Company to roll out more services after appointing manager A LEADING care company is to roll out more services across Merseyside.

SureCare Merseyside is to offer personal care and support, live-in care and respite and holiday care to people living in the area.

The company, which only launched in October last year, already provides home services including companionship, cleaning, gardening and DIY, as well as childcare services such as babysitting and mobile crèche for weddings and similar events.

Managing director Keith Hume has also appointed Elaine Edwards as his registered manager and will be looking to recruit further over the coming weeks. Prior to joining SureCare, Elaine held a similar position with fellow care company Bluebird.

Keith said: “We are delighted to have brought Elaine on board. She is a vastly experienced care manager who was impressed by our strong head office support team, communication and commitment to deliver high quality care.

“We have been extremely pleased with the response we have had to our home services, babysitting and mobile crèche services since launching in October. A number of local hotels have made us their preferred partner for babysitting.

Daniel Evans with his achiever of the year award.

Daniel scoops top award SureCare Merseyside MD Keith Hume.

“As soon as our Care Quality Commission accreditation is in place, we will be rolling out further services including personal care and support, live-in care and respite and holiday care.”

Keith, whose office is in Waterloo, decided to become a SureCare franchisee after carrying out research which revealed there was a gap in Merseyside for a high quality, innovative care provider.

Keith added: “Our team has the experience and flexibility to be able to tailor our services specifically to the needs of the individual client.”

A FORMER Shrewsbury bar man who swapped the pub for a care home has scooped a pair of top awards after working his way from being an apprentice to an assistant manager in just three years.

Daniel Evans, who works at Coverage Care’s Coton Hill House in Shrewsbury, was named achiever of the year in the inaugural SBC Training annual awards.

The 29-year-old has also won a Medal of Excellence from the City and Guilds examination board that he will receive in Manchester shortly.

Daniel joined Coverage Care through an apprenticeship scheme with Shrewsbury based SBC Training in April 2012 after deciding he wanted a more rewarding career.

After working as a care assistant at

Barclay Gardens in Donnington, Telford, and Briarfields in Shrewsbury, Daniel was appointed as assistant manager at Coton Hill House in May last year.

He has completed NVQs in Health and Social Care at Level 2 and 3 and will receive the Medal of Excellence for his achievements in the latter qualification.

Daniel said: “It was really unexpected to win the Achiever of the Year award from SBC. “The organisation has been very supportive and I am very grateful for all their help. Starting the apprenticeship was a great way to develop a new career.

“I love my work and would like to continue in the care sector, with the aim of running a home one day.”

30

CARINGNEWS

In light of the recent Allergy Awareness Week, Ellen Brown, care homes divisional manager at apetito, considers the difficulties faced in catering to residents with special diets …

How does your care home cater for residents with special diets?

CAMPAIGNS such as the recent Allergy Awareness Week – and this month’s Dementia Awareness Week – are timely reminders of the increased need for catering for residents who may require special diets.

Both food allergies (where the body’s immune system reacts to certain foods) and intolerances (where the immune system isn’t involved in a food reaction) are on the increase.

Similarly, barely a week goes by without a national news report on the growing prevalence of dementia, with up to 80 per cent of people living in care homes now having a form of dementia or severe memory problems.

These factors have had a major impact on the dietary needs of care home residents.

In fact, we find that help in catering for special diets is among the top reasons why homes are turning to companies like ours for support.

Accounting for allergies With food allergies and intolerances on the increase, care homes must not

only include options that are free from ingredients that most commonly trigger them, it’s absolutely vital no crosscontamination occurs during the preparation of food. Not surprisingly, this can prove quite difficult in a typical care home kitchen.

Offering residents options from a menu specially prepared for those with specific allergies and intolerances provides reassurance to both residents and their carers.

Making mealtimes easier to swallow Many care home residents with dementia sadly experience chewing and swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). Our award-winning range of texture-modified meals not only appear appetising and as close to ‘normal’ food as possible, they include options for residents at various stages of dysphagia to safely eat – something that is incredibly difficult for in-house chefs to achieve.

Options for smaller appetites As dementia can have an impact on

eating habits and appetite levels, offering calorie dense meals and snacks is a useful way to ensure those with smaller appetites take in enough calories throughout the day. apetito’s range of energy dense meals allow residents with smaller appetites to enjoy mealtimes without being daunted by a large plate of food.

Expert support Recent research by YouGov found that 50 per cent of those who may need to consider a care home for their loved ones in future believe the availability of specialist nutrition will be an important factor in their choice of home.

At the end of the day, by using trusting experts to provide food that meets these particular needs will ease any added stress involved in preparation.

This not only frees up homes to focus on the many other challenges in offering the very best care for residents – but also reassures their friends and family that all their needs are fully catered for.”

Ellen Brown

QUALITY IN CARESPONSORED BY

33 www.requiredsystems.com

Two new faces at Care England

Hadrian House at Wallsend.

North East care home offers top level care A NORTH East care home has been given a near perfect score for the quality of its services, following an inspection.

Hadrian House at Wallsend, part of the Prestwick Care group, recently underwent its annual quality payment inspection, carried out by North Tyneside Council.

And the home – which cares for 50 residents with dementia and other special conditions – received a mark of 98.44 per cent for the care it offers, making it one of the highest scoring in the area.

The quality payment inspections are carried out by local authorities around the country on care homes within their boroughs, involving an intensive two-day examination of all services.

Areas which come under scrutiny include the physical environment, the communication with the families of residents, the accuracy of all documentation and the general quality of what the home offers.

The inspection includes a visit by independent observers who also have some input into the final score.

Sylvia Dixon, manager at Hadrian House, said: “We are a very dedicated team who offer our residents the highest standard of care.

“And this is borne out by getting this incredibly high score.

“We pride ourselves on the services at Hadrian House and how we look after our residents and this has obviously been recognised by the inspection panel.”

The home is also involved in a range of other initiatives, including working closely with occupation therapy students at Newcastle University and with Northumbria Health Care Trust on a piece of research around the therapeutic value of medication.

Hadrian House is one of 10 homes owned by Prestwick Care, part of Malhotra Group PLC, with an additional 67 bed home opening at Melton Park, Gosforth, Newcastle in August.

The new Essential Standards are available NOW IT IS all change from CQC and at Required Systems we have updated our Systems to enable you to simply demonstrate compliance.

All our Policy /Procedures have been brought into line with the new 2014 Legislation and to make it even easier to demonstrate compliance we have developed a module that shows you how to meet each of the five new categories.

This combined with our Provider Compliance Audit Tool will allow you to devote more time to what you are here to do CARE. Please come and visit our stand at the ‘Shaping The Future of Care’ care providers conference organised by Caring UK’s parent company Script

Media at Wetherby Racecourse on May 13.

Enquiries: To find out more call 01236 782477 or visit www.requiredsystems.com

CARE England has appointed two special advisors on nursing, who will strengthen the organisation’s networks and help to develop policy on nursing and care issues.

Both professor Trish MorrisThompson and Deborah Sturdy have worked at senior levels in the Department of Health, the NHS and the independent sector.

Chief executive, professor Martin Green, said: “There is a crisis in nursing recruitment across the independent care sector and Care England is determined to look for solutions and find ways to support nurses who are currently working in the independent

sector. These nurses make an enormous contribution to the health and well-being of people living in care services and are clinical leaders within their sector. Trish and Deborah are both consummate professionals who live the values of health and social care and are passionate about ensuring that there is a good quality of life for people living in care services.

“They are both creative and innovative thinkers, who are prominent nurse leaders and opinion formers, and it will be of enormous benefit to Care England and the independent sector to have their expertise, experience and input into policy.”

34

CARINGNEWS Advertiser’s announcement

Since his success in using a Solardome skylight to improve quality of life for residents at a care home in Wales, architect Tim Worsfold has picked up more work in the healthcare sector. We spoke to him about the project at Brindaavan Care Home to find out exactly what he did and whether he would do it again…

Dome skylight transforms care home What was the care home like before the work?

When the owner bought the care home in 2014 he was presented with a series of dayrooms, and the problem he had was that the staff were dotted around all over the place.

But the main area requiring development was an enclosed courtyard with the building running round it on three sides and a leaking glass conservatory.

What was the owner’s vision?

The owner wanted to bring together the dayrooms by building a roof over the whole of the courtyard, which then produced a room of about 106 square metres.

But being enclosed, he needed to bring in more natural light into the middle of this area. After some research he found Solardome Industries and in particular their skylights.

How has the skylight dome helped you deliver the project?

A six-metre diameter skylight seemed huge, but now the work is done the owner has a large flat roof with a geodesic glass dome right in the middle of it, and when the sun shines it’s like being outside.

Add to that the actuators for venting and underfloor heating, and the residents are in the perfect constant environment.

How important do you think access to natural light is for health and wellbeing?

Incredibly important, it’s paramount.

I’m sure that if anybody wanted to go and see the dome for themselves the care home would be more than happy to show them around.

the kind of unit that is needed in the borough.

www.architectsincardiff.co.uk What other benefits has the dome brought?

The dome does two things. Firstly it lights up at night because of the ambient light and also a coloured light ring, which we put in to run right around the circumference of the dome. That light ring actually changes colour so the residents can enjoy the stimulation of the shifting colours, which is therapeutic and calming.

The second thing it does is work as a brand recognition tool. When it was first installed they had an audience outside. People stopped in the street to admire it.

When anybody locally asks which one the Brindaavan Care Home is, they are told: “It’s the one with the coloured dome.” So it has created quite a good marketing avenue for the owner who can now say, as far as I’m aware, it’s always full with a waiting list.

What are the other economic benefits of the building work?

The local authority is delighted, and is actually putting more money into the home and financing more training for staff because it is exactly

What has been the reaction from staff?

They love it. They think it’s wonderful.

They like the owner. He puts money into it, he listens to what they say, and it’s all working well.

One piece of feedback was: “We think it’s fab.”

As an architect who didn’t dream up the idea of the dome, I’m pleasantly surprised that it has turned out even better than anyone could have hoped for, and of course the client is delighted.

Would you use Solardome Industries again?

Since completing this project I’ve gone on to get more healthcare work, so it’s been very good for me. If a client rang up and wanted a skylight I would be more than happy to recommend Solardome. I did like working with them.

I got on well with everybody and I knew where they were coming from.

They were receptive to changes, so yes, I would do it again.

Enquiries: Telephone 023 8066 7890, email sales@solardome.co.uk or visit www.solardome.co.uk

35

Work on new home completed WATES Construction has handed over the keys to Signature Senior Lifestyle’s newest luxury senior living community in Hertford.

Work on Bentley House began in 2013 and has seen Wates create a five-storey, 5,000 sq m registered care home featuring 85 private studio apartments and one-bedroom suites.

Now open to residents, Bentley House also includes 18 specialist dementia suites, shared lounge areas and spa bathrooms on each floor.

Additional facilities include a cinema room, hair salon and private dining areas.

Set in courtyard-style grounds, the new development also includes potting gardens, raised beds and a greenhouse for residents’ recreational use, all of which create a comfortable, friendly and home-like environment.

Ian Vickers, managing director, Wates Construction Home Counties, said: “The Wates team has spent the past year breathing new life into a former office building to create a nurturing care home that offers comfort and luxury.

“Signature’s ambition is to provide senior living communities that enhance quality of life and we are very proud to have been the contractor entrusted to deliver on this vision at Bentley House.”

Throughout the project, Wates and Signature have fulfilled a joint pledge to ensure that the development work brings with it a benefit to the regional economy, including the appointment of £600,000 worth of supplier and sub-contractor packages to local SMEs. Wayne Pryce, director of development and construction for Signature

Signature Senior Lifestyle’s Bentley House in Hertford.

Senior Lifestyle, added: “Wates has helped Signature provide what we think is the best care home in the area.

“This has not been a straightforward project, but with Wates’ support

the office conversion has exceeded our expectations.

“Our new home is filling quickly and our residents are now enjoying the best care in an amazing environment.”

37

CARINGCOMMERCE

Group to open luxury care home as part of funding partnership

By Dominic Musgrave STOURBRIDGE-based Ephraims Care Group, an established care home operator with four care homes across the West Midlands, is to open a new luxury facility in Worcestershire following a newly funded partnership with Santander Corporate and Commercial.

Ephraims Care Group, a family run business started by owners Roger and Margaret Ephraims, was founded in 1995 with the purchase of Allenbrook Care Home.

The business then purchased The Vicarage in Shrewsbury, which provides specialist care for residents with severe dementia and Alzheimer’s; followed by Oriel Care Home in Stourbridge; and The Shrubbery Care Home in Kidderminster. In total, the business now caters for 156 residents within the four homes.

The extra funding package from Santander Corporate and Commercial has enabled Ephraims Care Group to purchase the Cadmore Estate in Worcestershire and transform it into a luxury care home.

Cadmore Estate will house 29 guests to begin with and will benefit from a

nine-hole golf course, fishing lakes and river frontage, as well as a working mill.

The home is due to open shortly and will create 40 new jobs for the local community.

Marie Claire Stringer, acquisition manager, Ephraims Care Group, said: “Our family business has gone from strength to strength in recent years and we believe the offering of highend accommodation is the natural next step in our portfolio.

“The funding and support from Santander has been excellent throughout the purchase and we are confident that, once up and running, we will soon be adding wings to the estate to cater for extra guests.”

Mike Gascoigne, education, healthcare and communities team, Santander Corporate & Commercial, added: “Ephraims Care Group is an example of an excellent local business which, through dedication and ambition, has become a real success story.

“The new care home will not only offer something different in terms of luxury care in the local area but will also provide employment for a significant number of local people.”

Representatives from DC Care and Magdalen Park at the ceremony.

Agency presents award to East Yorkshire home DC CARE was a major sponsor of the Pinders Healthcare Design Awards for the fourth year running.

Specialist business appraisers Alison Taylor and Andy Sandel were present at the annual ceremony held at the Lancaster Hotel in London recently.

Alison presented the best new care home – elderly award to Magdalen Park Nursing Home in Hedon, East Yorkshire, which was chosen from a shortlist of worthy finalists.

After presenting the award to proprietors Yorkare Homes Ltd, Alison said: “All the finalists showed just how

much attention goes into the provision of care and the standards get higher every year. Congratulations to all at Magdalen Park and at Yorkare Homes Ltd.” Helping present this year’s awards was Armenian comedian Kev Orkian, fresh from his piano performance at last year’s event.

Summing up the day’s events, Andy added: “The Pinders Healthcare Design Awards celebrate good design in care facilities, which is something to be encouraged. We would like to congratulate all the award winners and finalists.”

38

CARINGCOMMERCE

New brand launched by group LNT Group has launched a new brand, LNT Carehome Developments.

Bringing together their offering to the care home market under one brand identity consolidates the success of LNT’s Turn of Key and Turn of Key Plus products.

Lawrence Tomlinson, chairman of the LNT Group, said: “LNT Construction and the LNT Group are renowned in the care market for their excellent built environment and comprehensive Turn of Key offer.

“We’ve built and filled over 100 homes since the millennium, and in 2014 we launched our new ‘Turn of Key Plus’ package which includes everything needed to open a care home like assistance with CQC registration and even trained staff. As we expand our offering, it makes sense to bring everything together under one simple brand name.”

Having secured a £30m committed facility from Omni Capital, the new finance is enabling LNT Carehome Developments to ramp up activity.

They are actively looking for sites across the UK with the intention to be building on up to 20 sites per year.

Demolition work begins on site of new Shrewsbury care home WORK has begun to demolish the former Territorial Army centre in Shrewsbury to make way for a multimillion pound care home with nursing facilities.

Specialists have moved onto the site to pave the way for turning the former MOD base into a 90-bed home for Shropshire’s largest independent care provider, Coverage Care Services.

The proposed £8m project is the latest in a series of new build care home developments by not-for-profit Coverage Care, as the county begins to see the impact of an ageing population and an increased demand for both residential and nursing care.

The Sundorne home, which will be located next to the Severn Fields Health Village, is scheduled for a 2016 opening after receiving detailed planning approval at the end of 2014, and is expected to create 120 full and part-time jobs.

Financial backing for the project is being provided by The Royal Bank of Scotland and was arranged by Mike Harris, relationship director at the bank.

Chief executive of Coverage Care, David Coull, said: “We are very excited to be undertaking the first stage of the new Shrewsbury development.

“We were able to illustrate our

Coverage Care chief executive David Coull, Mark Andrews from RBS and Ken Bean, chairman of Coverage Care, examine the plans for the new site. detailed vision for the new home which will bring a much needed, high quality new facility to the town. The Royal Bank of Scotland has been a great supporter of previous builds and we have developed a great working relationship through delivering such projects together.”

The proposed new home will have 90 large en-suite bedrooms over two floors, with a third storey frontage as

part of the overall design, two wings on each floor, each with its own lounge and dining area, shared communal rooms and a private garden area to the rear of the building.

The new home is being built by Castlemead Group, which is an expert in delivering care homes. This will be the third property the two companies have developed together.

New vision for care success NORTHSTAR, in conjunction with the Castlemeadow Group, has been selected as the preferred care provider and developer of a cutting edge elderly health care vision for the town of Halesworth in Suffolk.

Working in partnership as the lead consultants with Halesworth Health and various voluntary and sporting groups, NorthStar will design and project manage the replacement of existing elderly healthcare provision to develop a rejuvenated care complex which will provide a sheltered housing scheme of 64 extra care apartments.

These will offer dementia care services, intermediate care, carer support initiatives, and an advice

centre for people with life limiting conditions.

Danny Sharpe, director at NorthStar, said: “After an eight-month selection process working with Castle Meadow Care on the designs for this innovative concept, we are incredibly happy to have been selected to deliver this vision for the future of elderly healthcare in Halesworth.”

All bodies will be working together on a service delivery model in conjunction with local people, GPs and the current incumbent provider of health services at the PSH, East Coast Community Healthcare.

Design and planning has begun with construction expected to start in the summer of 2016.

Castleoak has completed a £40m care home reprovisioning programme for Housing Solutions, working in partnership with care operator The Fremantle Trust and Buckinghamshire County Council. The programme, known as Project Care, was launched to improve the quality of accommodation for older people and people with learning disabilities across Buckinghamshire. This included the reprovision of seven old care homes and the addition of a further care home. Castleoak was appointed to design and build 600 new bed spaces in eight care homes, each ranging from 60 to 90 beds.

40

CARINGPRODUCT NEWS

Tyne and Wear home opens dementia café

By Dominic Musgrave

TV presenter and antiques expert John Bly officially opened the doors of Buckingham Lodge, Anchor’s newest care home, and was joined by the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Aylesbury. John met almost 100 influential members of the local community for a special launch event, ahead of the first residents being welcomed to the 64-bed care home. The famed auctioneer and antiques dealer enjoyed a guided tour with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Aylesbury Town Council, before raising a glass to Buckingham Lodge and cutting the ribbon to declare the facility officially open.

Hospice revamp meets needs of patients ST PETER and St James Hospice & Continuing Care Centre has benefited from an interior re-vamp after interior design company HomeSmiths partnered with Shackletons to create a centre of wellbeing.

Based in Lewes, East Sussex, the out-dated hospice provides palliative care and required a scheme of works that would meet the needs of both existing patients and those who might use the Centre in the future.

Through focus groups with Hospice employees, and patients, design proposals and mood boards were developed and turned into reality as Shackletons provided cosy sofas, armchairs, formal dining furniture

and occasional furniture that would reflect the very tranquil and gentle nature of the facility.

Jacqui Smith, director at HomeSmiths, said: “Developing a design scheme everyone would be happy with was a challenge, but due to our previous working relationship with Shackletons, we knew they would understand the complexities and provide us with a considered solution that would meet the brief perfectly.”

Shackletons has been in the business of creating comfort for over 50 years and are the UK’s leading design and manufacturer of specialist contract furniture for the healthcare sector.

HOWDON Care Centre opened its doors to the local community for the launch of its new dementia café, The Tyne Teas Pitstop.

Guests at the launch included Ray Laidlaw, the drummer from the British folk rock band, Lindisfarne, and Tommy Mulvenna, the chair of the North Tyneside Council.

Amanda Cunningham, managing director for Four Seasons in the North East, delivered the opening speech.

Open every day, the café will provide a comfortable and relaxing environment in which residents and visitors can sit with their loved ones and enjoy tea and light refreshments.

It has been decorated to reflect the history of the area to reinforce the home’s connection with the local community and help trigger positive memories.

The café will also be a place where residents and their families can learn more about dementia. Members of the home’s staff who are experienced in dementia care, together with representatives from Alzheimer’s

Society and Age UK will be on-hand to provide information and there will also be books for children to learn more about dementia.

In addition, the café will hold two open days each month to offer advice and support for people from the local community who may be moving into the care home and their relatives.

Ruth Todd, home manager, said “Our dementia café will give residents the opportunity to spend quality time with their families in a calm setting, which will help to enhance their wellbeing. It will also provide a space in which people can learn more about dementia and receive any support or advice that they might need.”

Hunter Hall and Swan Lodge Care Home have joined together as Howdon Care Centre in order to provide a wide range of services, including specialised dementia care, residential care and palliative care.

This means that as people's care needs change, the well-trained and experienced team will be able to continue to care for them without needing to find a new home.

Competitive pricing without compromise WITH falls in hospitals and care homes high in media focus, now would be a good time to look into viable solutions to reduce your exposure and improve patient care.

Each year, a typical nursing home with 100 beds reports 100 to 200 falls.

Many falls go unreported.

Medpage Limited T/A Easylink UK

is one of the leading suppliers in the UK of patient fall prevention products with over 30 years of trading experience, and currently supplying in excess of 10 thousand systems per annum.

Our range of bed and chair rise alarms offer competitive pricing without compromise on quality.

Company celebrates 20 years IS YOUR existing lender still offering the most competitive terms?

The end of your loans commitment period is an opportunity for you to ensure you are getting the most competitive funding that is available.

As more lenders target the Healthcare sector, 2015 is the time to negotiate the right deal for you.

Terms include:

Monthly repayments as low as £4,361.31 (per £1m borrowed) 75 per cent loan to value.

25-year commitment.

CareDocs system sounds too good to be true ...

DO you spend far too much of your time checking that your residents’ care records are up to date?

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you had a system that showed at a glance if any details were missing or records needed updating?

If that sounds too good to be true then you need to know about CareDocs.

All the necessary information – including daily notes and care plans – is constantly monitored to check that it’s being updated and nothing is out of date. If a resident’s records are not updated within 24 hours of the last note then it automatically generates a warning message.

The system will also ensure that essential details such as the doctor’s

contact details are recorded and updates to journals and short-term care plans are constantly monitored.

A common criticism from CQC inspectors is that care plans are not reviewed on a regular basis.

CareDocs can be programmed to automatically produce a reminder so you never have to worry that your care plans are out of date.

You can update care plans with any changes in circumstances as often as you wish and then evidence regular reviews of care plans quickly and easily.

As well as residents’ records, CareDocs can monitor daily checks such as fridge and freezer temperatures and equipment servicing schedules.

Sponsorship recognises Knightsbridge’s commitment to design in mental health KNIGHTSBRIDGE Furniture has accepted an invitation to be the main sponsor of the Design in Mental Health (DiMH) conference and exhibition in May, recognising the company’s commitment to the importance of furniture design within challenging environments.

In response to increasing demand for its expertise in fitting out hospitals, residential homes, prisons and other facilities accommodating people with mental health issues, Knightsbridge Furniture has recently extended its specialist ‘Challenging Environments’ collection.

Comprising a portfolio of seating, tables and cabinets which are intrinsically safe and robust, and yet which are also stylish and practical, the range has grown out of the company’s pioneering work with staff, patients and residents over the last

decade, and examples of the latest additions to the collection can be seen on Stand 103 at the DiMH exhibition.

The Knightsbridge Challenging Environments collection is manufactured at the company’s plant in West Yorkshire: Knightsbridge Furniture is an Approved Supplier to the NHS and carries NHS Mental Health Contract Number 2012/S 38061381.

Enquiries: Copies of the new Challenging Environments catalogue will be available on stand 103 at the DiMH show at the National Motorcycle Museum on May 19-20 .

Alternatively, visit www.knightsbridge-furniture.co.uk to view or order a copy, or email enquiries@knightsbridge-furniture.co.uk

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CARINGPRODUCT NEWS

Laser Learning delivers the Care Certificate course online SKILLS for Care launched the Care Certificate on April 1, which is now the expected evidence of competency for support workers across England.

The Care Certificate introduces new staff to the responsibilities of their role as a social care worker, and aims to benefit all workers as well as care users.

The standards for the certificate cover a wide range of knowledge, skills and behaviours which are essential for staff to ensure a competent and confident workforce.

Care Certificate by Laser Learning delivers the Care Certificate course online using the highly praised Laser® learning programme, blending high quality filmed tutorials, reading, and quizzes for each learning outcome of the course. Learners can access their learning on multiple devices and organise their learning around their own schedule.

Managers and business owners can use their own account on the Laser® learning programme to track their staff’s progress through the course, giving them information about each staff member,

as well as an overview of learners across multiple sites.

Enquiries: To find out more visit www.lasercarecertificate.co.uk or email info@laserlearning.co.uk for a free demo login to see the programme in action.

Have you noticed the population Care group specifies power-assisted Gainsborough baths for new home getting heavier?

THE rising levels of obesity in our nation have been in the news increasingly over the last 10 years, but the statistics that often go unreported are the impact of obesity on the over 75 age group.

Health & Social Care Information Centre is the government statistics provider sponsored by the Department of Health. Its data from 2014 shows that inpatient obesity in the 75+ age group has risen by four times in the last 10 years.

According to HSCIC data, there are now an estimated 431,040 more overweight/obese/ morbidly obese 75+ year olds in the UK today than 10 years ago. These numbers are startling, and whilst they encourage good debate on how to improve the health and wellbeing of the elderly in the future, there are very practical measures we need to take today.

The everyday care of the elderly requires better manual handling training and more extra wide or bariatric equipment than ever before.

Alpine HC, a manufacturer and supplier of medical equipment across the UK, has noticed an increase in the demand for its extra wide and bariatric equipment. Due to the nature of the

increase in weight of the elderly population, most situations don’t require expensive bariatric equipment, but instead beds and mattresses that are available in a 4ft/120cm width with a slightly higher maximum user weight. Alpine HC has responded to these requirements with special extra wide bed and mattress packages.

Enquiries: Call 01482 210021 to find more information about extra wide bed and mattress packages.

THREE Ascot hi-lo baths and three Windsor baths with powered seat have been installed at the new 66- bed care home in Manningtree, Essex.

Completed in December 2014, Mistley Manor represents the new flagship development for the Stour Valley Care Group.

Nearly £7million has been invested into this new build project to ensure the very highest standards of care provision can be delivered. A 150-strong care team will support over60 residents, including some individuals with conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

In addition to the main building complex which accommodates 60 residents over three floors, four separate bungalows have been built to provide independent living accommodation for selected residents.

Construction of Mistley Manor began in 2012 and owners Mike and Jacqui Volf were responsible for not only the project management but also the specification, design and co-ordination of the construction for this new development.

Above all, Mike and Jacqui were keen to create a place of complete luxury and comfort for their

residents, and so they set about designing a ‘care hotel’. Essentially, it is a residential care environment with a stylish more sumptuous, aspirational feel compared to a conventional care home setting.

After intensive research of several specialist bathing manufacturers, Gainsborough was identified as the perfect bathing partner for this innovative new-build project.

Crucially important was the need to minimise moving and handling risks. It was essential Jacqui selected the most suitable products to match the needs of both the residents and the on-site care team.

Gainsborough’s wide range of specialist baths ensured she was able to tailor her choice to create a safe, comfortable and pleasant bathing experience for Mistley Manor’s residents.

Following a thorough consultation process, Gainsborough was selected to assess, survey, design and install six assisted bathing systems within the main building complex and four adjacent bungalows.

Enquiries: Visit www.gainsboroughbaths.com

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.

HipSaver Soft Hip Protectors

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.

HIPSAVER Soft Hip Protectors protect elderly people from fall related hip fractures.

Designed to protect elderly people from fall related hip fractures, HipSavers are a leading brand of soft hip protectors. Tested, validated and proven effective in clinical studies and in practice, HipSavers are user and carer friendly, affordable and cost-effective.

Soft, comfortable and effective, HipSaver Soft Hip Protectors are perfect for use in nursing or residential care and by active older people living independently at home.

HipSavers can be worn day and night for 24-

hour protection or just at times of physical and recreational activities, when accidental falls, slips and trips can lead to hip fractures.

Available as comfortable underwear or long casual pants in seven sizes for ladies and for men, HipSavers feature soft protective airPads permanently sewn into the garments.

Machine washable at high temperature and tumble drier friendly, HipSavers are practical and long term durable.

Enquiries: Call Win Health Ltd on 01835 864866 or visit the website www.win-health.com

Beaucare launch new medical catalogue

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

OUR most comprehensive catalogue to date is packed full of all the everyday medical equipment and consumables a care home requires.

We have broadened our product offerings within a number of ranges, including introducing new nursing profiling beds, which were showcased at the Birmingham Care Show last year, and dementia care products to mention a few.

We guarantee a one stop shop policy, with orders placed by 5pm being delivered next day at no extra cost.

Beaucare® Medical Ltd, established since 1992, is the UK’s premier supplier of hygiene, medical supplies and equipment to individual care homes, care home groups, hospitals and NHS Trusts.

Enquiries: To obtain your copy call 01423 878899, email sales@beaucare.com or visit www.beaucare.com

42

Finalists revealed for cook of the year competition THE talented line-up of finalists for the National Association of Care Catering Care Cook of the Year 2015 competition has been announced.

The finalists pulled out all the stops in the regional heats to impress the judges in order to secure a place in the national final and move one step closer to being crowned NACC Care Cook of the Year 2015.

The challenge was to produce the delicious and nutritionally-balanced two-course menu, main and dessert, created specifically for the competition in just 90 minutes.

The menu had to be suitable for service users in a care setting and have the combined food cost for both courses of no more than £1.50 per head based on four portions.

The competitors also had to demonstrate innovation, costing, suitability for the environment, adherence to nutrition guidelines, taste and overall menu balance.

On June 10 the finalists will compete in a live cook-off for the annual coveted title at Barking & Dagenham College’s Technical Skills Academy.

Signs

The finalists are: Scottish region: Paul Burton, Parklands Care Home, Meallmore Ltd, Alloa, Clackmannanshire.

Margaret Stewart, Methilhaven Care Home, Fife Council.

Northern region: Matt Gomersall, Donisthorpe Hall, Leeds.

Oliver Smith, Wetherby Manor, Wetherby.

Midlands region: Paul Burch, Dukes Court Care Home, Wellingborough.

Samantha Smallwood, Sunrise Senior Living of Edgbaston.

Welsh region: Gareth O’Hara, Sunrise Senior Living of Cardiff.

South West region: Gary Ford, St Monica Trust, Bristol.

William Marsh, Brandon Care Ltd, Exmouth.

South East region: Becky Allcorn, Hanover Housing Rotary Lodge, Worthing.

Matthew Dodge, Coombe Hill Manor, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey.

Andrea Sutcliffe and Halsey House manager Sally Mills.

Legion’s home wins award for dementia care in Norfolk THE Norfolk Care Awards have recognised Halsey House, The Royal British Legion’s care home in Cromer, for its teamwork in dementia care.

The staff at the home’s 16-bed dementia care wing Danbury Lodge beat two other finalists to win the ‘Together Everyone Achieved More’ Award. Supporting ex-Service people and their dependants, the team were commended for their ethos and approach in delivering excellence in dementia care.

An estimated 16,400 people in Norfolk have dementia, or one in every 53 people, and this is expected to almost double over the next 20 years.

Andrea Sutcliffe, chief inspector for social care at the CQC, visited Halsey House following the awards to learn about its person-centred care based

on each resident’s life history and stories. She was taken on a tour of the Lodge and learned about the daily activity programme, which includes gardening, art classes and dancing to keep residents active.

Care home manager Sally Mills said: “We have an innovative approach to care which has been recognised by the Norfolk Care Awards.

“Every team member, resident and relative is respected and encouraged to put forward ideas that help shape our dementia care ethos. We are always looking to improve by sharing experiences and discussing what we can learn from them.

“There’s a shared bond at Halsey House because each resident has a service connection. It means there is a team spirit and a feeling that everyone looks out for each other.”

Signs

Dame Esther Rantzen DBE visited HC-One’s Chorlton Place Care Home in Manchester to meet residents, their relatives and members of the care team. She also formally launched a special consultation of residents and relatives, the outcome of which will determine what refurbishments will take place at the care home over the coming year.

These may include themed rooms (such as games and beauty rooms) and improved garden areas. Scheme boards were displayed in the home and residents and relatives were invited to vote for their favourites.