November 2008
incorporating The Number One magazine for the care sector
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Broken promises are denied By Dominic Musgrave A COUNCIL has hit back at claims it broke promises by moving a 101year-old out of a care home. Stockton Borough Council moved dementia sufferer Sarah Rutter to Rosedale care home from Parkview care home in Thornaby, where she had been the only patient since July. Lawyers for the Council told the High Court that it was costing the authority £7,400 to keep her in the home, and that she was being looked after by 19 care staff. They also said the cost of housing her at an alternative home was estimated to be £620 a week, and the council insisted a move would be in her best interests. “In ensuring a safe and sensitive transfer, and in line with the previous transfers, we arranged suitable transport with disabled access and two staff members to escort Mrs Rutter, with one of her daughters being involved in preparing her leaving Parkview and to be at Rosedale to welcome her on arrival,” said a council spokeswoman. The spokeswoman added that care staff from Parkview remained with Sarah for a period of time whilst she
settled into her new home. Some of her personal belongings were also taken in advance to Rosedale in order to ensure she had familiar things around her to help her to settle. Her family failed to overturn the decision to move her at the Court of Appeal, claiming the council had gone against what its lawyers had said in court about promising to discuss the move. Stockton council wanted to close the home and convert it into accommodation for the elderly. Earlier in the year Caring UK reported on the association set up by local residents which opposed the home’s closure. The Village Park Residents Association submitted a 3,000signature petition to save it, accusing the council of putting a deliberate bed block on the home to push through the closure. Some of the staff have been relocated to other care homes it the area, while others have taken early retirement and redundancy. Do you think Stockton council was right to shut Parkview care home? Let Dominic Musgrave know your thoughts by emailing dm@whpl.net or by ringing 01226 734407.
People have a say ...
A charity for older people with learning disabilities which has actor Hugh Grant as its patron has received almost £1.4m of investment from a Government thirdsector funding agency. Futurebuilders England has invested in the Fynvola Foundation to support it in the purchase and refurbishment of a property in Kent that will provide a range of specialised nursing and palliative care facilities in a secure environment. Hugh has also provided funding for the project, which is to be named in memory of his mother. The investment has also enabled the Foundation to purchase several pieces of specialist equipment including hoists, baths and automated beds. The Fynvola Foundation was formed out of the experiences and needs of the Family Investment, a group of homes and day centres in Kent founded by Jenny Gurney MBE.
PEOPLE in Kent have been given a rare opportunity to tell the Government what they think about care. Throughout October the County Council aimed to get as many people as possible involved in talking to the Government by gathering people’s thoughts and sending them on. Some of the big questions being asked were: What do you think about care, about the people who provide care, how care is provided, who pays for care and who should be responsible for care? “This was a very important chance for people to say what they thought about care,” said cabinet member for Kent Adult Social Services, Graham Gibbens. “It was a real opportunity to talk to the Government about how we see care being organised and paid for in the future.”
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Helen Rex sets off for Australia
Helen samples care Down Under A MEMBER of staff from a Yeovil care company has jetted off Down Under to see how care is provided on the other side of the world. Helen Rex, acting area manager at Somerset Care at Home, won a travel bursary competition arranged by the group. The competition is part of Somerset Care’s internal management development programme which gives staff throughout the company opportunities to develop their professional skills. The award takes the form of a work placement at Helping Hand Aged Care, a notfor-profit company providing residential and community care services in southern Australia. A member of staff from Helping Hand will visit Somerset Care in March 2009 for a return placement. Speaking about the travel bursary, Helen said, “I am really excited to have been given this opportunity, and am looking forward to working in another country. I hope to return to Somerset Care with lots of new ideas about care from Australia.”
Margaret joins her mum in care scheme By Dominic Musgrave A WOMAN was so impressed with the extra care scheme her 99-year-old mum had moved into that she and her husband decided to move in themselves. Margaret Davenport originally decided to stay with Kathleen Hardman at Anchor’s Pendleton Croft in Heywood, Lancashire until she had settled in. Kathleen’s health deteriorated following the death of her other daughter Ann and Margaret wanted to stay close to her mother during this difficult time, and found herself and her husband Eric travelling to and from Pendleton Croft on a daily basis. Discussions followed among the family and with Anchor and the council, and the couple decided to sell their home and move in. Margaret, 73, said: “The people here are lovely. “Gareth the scheme manager is very approachable and the carers are very kind and helpful.
“We have coffee mornings, bingo and a luncheon club; it’s very sociable. “My mother is happy here and we’re not underneath each others’ feet. We have our meals together, like a family and I help my mum get ready in the mornings. “I don’t have to and we know the carers are here if we want them, but it’s something I want to do. “Since moving here my mum’s got her confidence back and she feels she’s independent.” Scheme manager Gareth Jones added: “Margaret and Eric have their own health issues and they both do incredibly well. They are a credit to themselves and to Pendleton Croft. “They are usually involved in organising entertainment here and when the karaoke starts, they’re always the first up.” Do you have two generations of the same family living at your care home? If so why not let Dominic Musgrave know by ringing him on 01226 734407 or email him at dm@whpl.net
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Editorial Group Editor: Andrew Harrod Tel: 01226 734639 Fax: 01226 734478 Healthcare Editor: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 734407 Reporters: Nicola Hyde Christina Eccles Mary Ferguson Louise Cordell Lyndsey Smith Group Deputy Editor: Judith Halkerston Tel: 01226 734458 Database enquiries to Tel: 01226 734695 E-mail: circulation@ wharncliffepublishing.co.uk Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publishers do not accept liability for error, printed or otherwise, that may occur.
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Hydro pool finds home in garden By Dominic Musgrave
Dickie Bird officially opened Rievaulx House in Armley, Leeds on behalf of Meridian Healthcare. The former cricket umpire, who lives in Barnsley, was so impressed he was heard to comment that if only it was closer to home he would move in. “It is unbelievable – what a tremendous complex,” he added. “It really is the way forward for our older people.”
After opening the home, Dickie was taken on a tour of the building by manager Carl Stevenson and also met 102-year-old Florence in her room. He then joined residents, staff and guests for a buffet and sing-a-long. The home boasts WiFi internet access, a fully equipped hairdressing salon, nail bar and cinema room for its 48 residents.
A MIDLANDS care home has built a hydrotherapy pool for its residents on an unused and overgrown garden. Warwickshire Care Services’ Newlands Care Home in Kenilworth raised the £38,000 needed for the facility with the help of a donation of £31,000 from the town’s Round Table. The new facility was the brainchild of the home’s social activity coordinator Val Sabin last year after she visited a similar facility in Coventry with a resident. “When myself and two members of staff took a lady to a pool in Coventry I sat and watched her and saw the benefits,” she said. “A pretty poorly lady who could barely move her limbs could suddenly straighten her arms and looked so relaxed. It cost £35 an hour to hire and I thought it was just what we needed at the home. From then on I was determined that we would have one here so wrote to everyone I could think of
locally – clubs, associations, pubs, churches and business – asking them if they would be willing to donate.” Val originally planned to turn her office into a room to house the pool, but after a meeting with members of the Round Table it was decided to put a roof on an outdoor space. “It’s a wonderful facility that has made such a difference to the residents here. We are very grateful to the Round Table and all those who donated to the fundraising appeal that helped to get the project up and running.” The home’s manager Anna Reed added: “The hydrotherapy pool has massive benefits for our service users. It helps them relax and is a fantastic thing to have at the home.” Val says she is now going to tun her attention to raising money for a new minibus for the home. If you have a story for Caring UK why not let healthcare editor Dominic Musgrave: dm@whpl.net or by ring 01226 734407.
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Flood-hit care home set to close A HULL care home which was damaged by the summer floods last year is to close after the city council approved the decision. Councillors had previously decided not to fund repairs estimated at approximately £250,000 to Rokeby House and stop using it as a care home. The decision follows the failure of a judicial review in the High Court earlier this year that was brought by campaigners to prevent the closure. Councillors voted unanimously that they were satisfied with the medical reports of the 11 residents of Rokeby House, which effectively means the home will shut. Coun Stephen Baker, cabinet portfolio-holder for health and wellbeing said: “I am fully aware of the concerns of the relatives and residents about the closure and everything will be done to ensure that their welfare is safeguarded in the future.” The council says that all residents will be offered alternative provision suitable to their individual needs, and their health will be closely monitored by individual care managers, who will keep in close contact with residents, their families and their carers.
Care home syndicate nets £7m Euro win By Dominic Musgrave A SYNDICATE of nine carers from an Essex care home is celebrating after banking a £7million share of the £100million EuroMillions mega-jackpot. The ladies, who ironically all work at Little Gaynes residential care home in Upminster, have committed to keep up their work at the home – despite each winning over £778,000. They won their share of the EuroMillions jackpot after matching five main numbers and one Lucky Star number. The group, who have dubbed themselves the A1 Carers, usually play the lottery together, but entered EuroMillions for the first time because of the special £100million jackpot which had to be won that night. They also have the son of syndicate leader Barbara Fogg to thank for nagging her into buying a ticket. The syndicate members did not find out they had won until they were all mysteriously called into work. “All the girls have continued to do their shifts since we won,” said Barbara. “ We can’t let our residents down, it’s not something you can
The A1 Carers receive their cheque at West Ham United’s Upton Park ground. do in this trade and we have reassured them all that despite the win we are here to stay. “My son kept on at me about the £100 million jackpot, telling me it had to be won that night, until I thought I would call round the girls and see if they fancied having a go. They all agreed so I got the tickets on the Friday morning.” She added: “I was a blubbering mess after checking the tickets and could barely call the National Lottery line and Pat, the manager at the care home. She decided to call all of the girls into work and
revealed the amazing news to them one by one. I then made an announcement to the residents and reassured them we wouldn’t be all leaving. They were overjoyed for us.” After picking up their cheque the lucky ladies returned to a surprise party at the home, which has 15 residents, laid on by the owner. The syndicate is made up of care home manager Pat Cogley, Susan Miles, Stephanie Davies, Anne Badenoch, Karen Vaughan, Mollie Sheridan, Susan Turner and Lee Hill.
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14,000 ‘new beds a year are needed’ By Christina Eccles
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THE industry must provide 14,000 new beds per year between now and 2030 in order to meet a growing demand for care, according to the CEO of the Priory Group Philip Scott. Factors such as a ‘baby boom’ after the First World War – which increased the amount of people aged 85 and above who may need care – and a migration of European workers creating a sufficient pool of staff are driving the demand for care. Speaking to delegates at the Yorkshire Care Providers Conference, Philip said the care homes market is in a good position to benefit from this. He said: “The care homes market is a great division to be in as healthcare will attract investment in the future. Between now and 2030 there will be a need for 14,000 new beds every year to meet demand. “Life expectancy is increasing and more people are living longer – but in an unhealthy state. This driving demand allows us to drive up price and occupancy levels. The future care home model will be high dependancy.”
According to Philip, the Priory Group’s plans for the future include expanding its presence in the care sector. He revealed some of the things the Priory Group looks for when making an acquisition. These include: Minimum registration of 50 beds, preferably larger. Good inspection reports Available management accounts for previous six months Good demographic analysis findings Consistently high levels of occupancy. He added: “Priory has got 15 new care homes in the pipeline between 2009 and 2010. I see the Priory Group as a healthcare conglomerate offering a total healthcare pathway. “The top 10 companies still only have 19 per cent of the market so there is room for further consolidation in the sector. “In the care sector, demographics will drive the price. We want to deliver a quality service which is equally important in driving both price and occupancy levels. Our long term focus is on care homes, not acquiring real estate.”
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Annadale private nursing home in South Belfast has won a prestigious award for the best kept health and social care facility with the Eastern Health Trust area. The Best Kept awards were founded in the 1950s and are community-based competitions which celebrate towns, villages, schools and healthcare facilities and places of work which are litter free, clean and colourful. The home entered the competition for the first time this year. Pictured: Annadale’s Winn Mashumba and Michele Campbell receive their award from Supervalue brand manager Jackie McCloskey and Joe Mahon and Doreen Muskett MBE from the Northern Ireland Amenity Council.
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Group moves forward with massage plan By Dominic Musgrave A CARE homes group has successfully completed the first stage in its plan to offer reflexology to all its residents free of charge. The first members of MHA’s staff to complete their training in the form of ancient Chinese medicine that involves the massage of reflex areas found in the feet and hands were presented with diplomas by the group’s chair Keith Salsbury at an awards ceremony held at the Midland Hotel in Derby. Also present at the ceremony was Nicola Hall, director of the Bayly School of Reflexology, the UK’s first training school and the official teaching body of the British Reflexology Association, from which the 27 newly qualified practitioners have received their diplomas. The group believes the initiative is the first time such a project has been undertaken on this scale within any care organisation. It is hoped that the complementary therapy will become an integral part of the care that resi-
dents receive week by week. Services manager Susan Rocks says reflexology does not claim to be a cure-all but that certain disorders have been successfully treated by this method, including common problems such as breathing disorders, digestive, circulatory and back problems and stress. “At present, the expected level of improvement in health and wellbeing can only be guessed at,” she added. “However, we hope to establish a way to assess the impact of this project throughout the coming months.” Every qualified MHA practitioner is allocated seven hours a week to offer the therapy, but always with the agreement of an individual’s own GP. Basic hand reflexology will be available at all times from staff familiar with this process. Do you offer something similar at your care home? If so why not drop healthcare editor Dominic Musgrave a line by emailing dm@whpl.net or ringing him on 01226 734407.
Residents to get help with switch to digital TV CARE home residents will get help with the switch to digital TV following changes to the Switchover Help Scheme announced by culture secretary Andy Burnham. The scheme has been set up by the Government and the BBC to deliver practical help to those older and disabled people who are likely to have the most difficulty in making the switch to digital. The next place to switch to digital is the Scottish Borders on November 6, and arrangements are already in
place to contact all care homes in this area. “This change will allow even more people to benefit from the support and advice on offer through the help scheme,” said Andy. “It's always been our aim to make sure those people who may find the process of digital switchover most difficult receive the best help possible. “People in the Scottish Borders can be reassured they'll get all the help they need to switch.”
Des Lynam OBE and Kew care founder Josie Dalli are entertained by magician Dean Nicholas at the opening.
Des relaunches care home after £1m refurbishment TELEVISION presenter Des Lynam OBE relaunched a West Sussex care home which has undergone a £1million refurbishment on National Grandparents’ Day. Kew Care’s Green Willow Residential Home in East Preston marked the occasion with a pig roast, chocolate fountain, magician, face painting and aromatherapy, while the local Junior Boundstone Band provided the music to bring young and old together. Guests included residents and their families, the staff team and members of the local community. The group’s founder Josie Dalli said: “We have been delighted by the outcome of the build project, the feedback we have had from residents and
their families, and of course the fantastic turnout at our relaunch. “Green Willow has become a flagship home for our group, as demonstrated by our recent ‘excellent’ three star CSCI rating.” Established in 1985, Green Willow’s year-long refurbishment has converted the home into a facility comprising 30 bespoke interior designed rooms, most with a door to the garden and internet access points. There is also a hairdressing suite, specialist spa bathroom and wetrooms, technology area, and a garden room which allows residents to enjoy the home’s grounds all year round. There are also plans to add a sensory garden to the existing orchard, vegetable plot and ornamental pond.
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Delves Court’s Sue Nicholls was named Hallmark Healthcare’s home manager of the year at the annual awards ceremony. Dominic Musgrave went along to meet her.
Sue shocked by success SUE has managed the Walsall care home for the past four years and was shortlisted for the award after an intense judging day in Essex. It is the first time she has been nominated for the award, and she admitted to being surprised when her name was called out. “I went on holiday just after the nominations came out so did mine for a couple of the team and then found out I had been nominated myself,” she said. “When they called out my name as the winner, I was completely shocked. I never thought it would be me. I love my job, my residents and my colleagues and to be acknowledged in such a way is a huge honour.” Following a long career in nursing working in hospitals and for a GP, she joined the home as deputy in 2003, and took the step up the following year in an acting role at first before it became permanent in 2005. “I have never asked anyone to do something that I have not already done or would be prepared to do myself,” she added. “I am only one person who is part of a fantastic team here and the award speaks volumes for all of our hard work. “If a member of staff comes with a query I always try to get them to
Sue Nicholls understand where they are coming from, and ask them what they think would be needed to solve the problem rather than me just telling them. I try to get a positive from a negative.” The home has changed its focus to concentrate more on end-of-life care for its residents, and Sue predicts more will do the same in the future.
“The home is currently going through the Gold Standards Framework,” she said. “It helps the residents and relatives and is not nice for the staff to deal with but is something which we need to focus on. “I think it is the way forward for care homes in the future. More equipment is being developed and
coming into care homes to improve residents’ lives and help the staff.” Sue added: “This enables the relatives to have more choice and we keep them aware of what is going on. If they don’t want their relation to go to hospital they can stay here and the staff can look after them. “It makes the process a lot easier really.”
Other award winners OTHER award winners at the ceremony were: Care Practitioner of the Year – Carly Chorlton, Church View care home, Swindon; Trained Nurse – Dipawatie Chawbnaraine, Bryn Celyn care home, Maesteg; Trainer – Elizabeth Stewart, Regency House care home, Cardiff; Activities Coordinator – Pat Arnold, Ty Enfys care home, Cardiff; Outstanding Performance – Elaine Shortt, Kirkby Manor care home, Nottingham; Support Services – Laura Bunting, Amberley Hall care home, Kings Lynn; Care Chef – Susan Byrnes, Springfield Park care home, Rochdale; Most improved home – Regency House care home, Cardiff; Home of the year – Cartref Annwyl Fan care home, Ammanford. The evening raised £1190.82 for Hallmark’s chosen charity NAPA (National Association for Providers of Activities for Older People).
Six things you may not know about ... Sue Nicholls She has three Border Collie dogs. She enjoys holidays in the Dominican Republic. A few years ago she achieved a second Dan black belt in Aikido. Her favourite food is Asian (curries etc.) She has known her best friend for 35 years after they studied as nurses together. She loves reading horror and crime novels.
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Wiltshire care homes to benefit By Dominic Musgrave CARE homes across Wiltshire are to benefit from ground-breaking expertise provided by the My Home Life programme. In a new partnership between My Home Life and Wiltshire County Council, support and guidance will be offered to care homes in the county to ensure that older residents get the levels of care and support. The scheme aims to celebrate existing best practice and promote care homes as a positive option for older people. Led by charity Help the Aged in partnership with City University, National Care Forum and the wider care home sector, the project aims to develop a range of resources, events, practice development initiatives and other activities. “It is a cause of genuine celebration that there are so many wonderful staff working hard each and every day within our care homes, said Sandie Lewis, commissioning manager for older people at Wiltshire County Council. “All too often, care homes and the staff working within them get a bad press – it is absolutely fantastic to be able to tell a positive story about the excellent care which are older residents receive across our county.” The relationship between Wiltshire County Council and My Home Life is the first of its kind since the project was established. The scheme will be rolled out from November.
Group celebrates its 50th anniversary with the opening of new wing THE opening of a new wing at one of its existing care homes will be the start of 50th anniversary celebrations at a family-run care group. The extension to the South Coast Nursing Homes Limited’s most recent acquisition, Eastridge Manor in Haywards Heath, will increase the capacity of the home from 30 to 53, and will provide both nursing and residential care for older people suffering from dementia. The group was formed in 1959 and now has seven premises with a total of 251 beds across the south - three nursing homes, three residential homes and an EMI residential and nursing home. It is now run by the third generation of the family, led by chairman Patrick Colville, his two sons Jeremy as finance director, and Chris as operations manager and daughter Sarah Hazell as marketing director. “Like most families we have our moments of stress, but we also have our moments of
Chairman Patrick Colville shared success,” said Sarah. “All of the family members have had careers in our own right before bringing our expertise to South Coast Nursing Homes. “My background is marketing and I previously worked in London for a large advertising
company which looked after some big name brands before I decided to join the family business to help my father with his marketing and bring my experience to the company.” Planning permission has also recently been submitted to rebuild the group’s flagship nursing home Berkeley Lodge in Worthing. “The home has a very central position in the town but it no longer supports the requirements of our residents so we hope to redevelop the site, bring the existing building to the ground and rebuild a new modern nursing home. Since joining the company two years ago Sarah says she has seen numerous changes in the company, the biggest of which being the installation of a centralised computer system. “The regulatory body require us to provide them with lots of information and the new system enables us to have a lot more details recorded and to hand.”
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Website launched to help businesses A NEW website has been launched to help small and medium-sized healthcare businesses recognise their environmental obligations. The people behind www.NetRegs.gov.uk say businesses in the care sector risk throwing away thousands of pounds each year on unnecessary charges and environmental fines by failing to stay on top of important green legislation. “Good environmental awareness is crucial for businesses operating in the healthcare industry, with laws governing waste disposal a key area of focus,” said Richard Martin, programme manager for NetRegs. “Those responsible for environmental compliance must be aware of the law and must understand how to comply. “Many businesses may find that they only need to make small changes to their practices to comply with environmental law. With consumers being increasingly concerned about the green credentials of service providers, these changes will also bring big benefits in terms of customer perception.” The website has been set up by UK environmental regulators the Environment Agency for England and Wales, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and SEPA in Scotland.
William with wife Mabel and home manager Maggie Candy
High-flying Bill celebrates in style ... A CARE home resident’s 92nd birthday dream came true when he took to the skies in a Spitfire similar to the ones he flew during the Second World War. William (Bill) Sanders, a resident at Caring Homes Group’s Sundridge Court in Bromley, flew from Denham Aerodrome to the RAF Museum in London, where he toured the Spitfire collection with 96-year-old wife Mabel. The couple were treated to lunch before returning to Denham by helicopter. The day was organised by staff at the Caring Homes Group and the RAF Museum. “This is such a dream come true, I really can’t believe it,” he said. “It was
good to be up in the skies again and to see the beautiful Spitfires on display at the RAF Museum London. I can’t thank the Caring Homes enough, and the RAF Museum for making this possible; it really will be a trip of a lifetime.” Bill was a Spitfire pilot and flight lieutenant in the 609 Squadron stationed at Biggin Hill, Kent and No 19 Squadron at RAF Duxford in the 1940s. He has many stories to tell including being shot away on a sweep and having to make a forced landing. In September 1941 he was escorting bombers to Lille and ran out of fuel on the return flight. His Spitfire
crashed into a concrete gun turret at the edge of the airfield and he sustained horrific injuries. After the accident he resumed duties in October 1942 and spent time training pilots. During the last years of the war he was responsible for flying the top personnel in the RAF and the Army over Europe to survey progress. Sundridge Court manager and Bill’s nurse, Maggie Candy, said: “Bill’s stories are fascinating and give a wonderful insight into the days gone by and an opportunity to celebrate his fantastic achievements.” At the end of his flight he presented a cheque on behalf of the company to the RAF Benevolent Fund.
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CARINGCARE SHOW PREVIEW
Dominic Musgrave spoke to Lynnda Coleman, chairman of the National Association for Safety and Health in Care Services about its work.
Risk assessment reassurance CARE providers have nothing to be scared of when doing risk assessments. Lynnda Coleman, who took over as chairman of the National Association for Safety and Health in Care Services (NASHiCS) in the summer, says it is easy as when you are taught to cross the road at the age of four, and even uses pictures of Tufty the Squirrel when she talks at events about the subject. “We are trying to stop people from worrying about doing risk assessments,” she said. “Small care providers seem to be scared of the ‘Big Brother’ approach from the inspectorate. This is about people’s livelihoods and these people have the power to close them down, but risk assessments are not difficult to do.” The association was formed in 2004 having been originally known as the National Social Care Safety Forum. Following its first meeting in May 1996 in Birmingham to share experiences of trying to ensure compliance with the ‘six pack’ regulations, it became clear that care providers could benefit from the opportunity to meet and discuss any issues they may have. It now has more than 100 members nationwide, but is always on the lookout for more.
She added: “What we strive to do is promote health and safety in care settings by providing sharing and networking opportunities and providing our members with a number of forums to get together either formally or informally. “We may be a relatively new organisation, but what we lack in years we make up for in enthusiasm, knowledge and skill.” The association hosts an annual conference, which this year was held in Coventry, and an annual seminar, which took place in Leicestershire. “Health and safety has had a bad press over the years thanks to the Jeremy Clarksons and Terry Wogans of this world. Stories such as the banning of conkers in schools haven’t helped, but instead of saying to children they are not allowed to play conkers they should have been taught how to play the game safely. “A lot of the problem is down to financial and insurance people looking for the potential for liability. We want our members to be risk aware and carry out risk assessments, but not make their environments risk free. “I always say that if an activity has a hint of risk but is massively beneficial to the service user then fine, but if the risk outweighs the benefits then
NASHiCS chairman Lynnda Coleman with deputy Chris Jackson it is not worth taking.” Lynnda and her deputy Chris Jackson will be speaking at the Care
Show at the NEC in Birmingham on November 5 and 6 about the association and risk assessment.
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Ariel to showcase 40°C auto-dosed laundry system ARIEL Laundry Solutions by P&G Professional will be showcasing the Ariel 40°C auto-dosed laundry system and Ariel Hygiene Expert powder, (which both kill 99.999 per cent of bacteria and harmful micro-organisms at just 40°C) at the Care Show. The stand will showcase an operational auto-dosed laundry system incorporating a working washing machine, allowing visitors to see the Ariel 40°C auto-dosed laundry system in use first hand. P&G Professional's Ariel 40°C auto-dosed laundry system experts will also be on hand to give advice on individual laundry needs within the care home. The first 20 people to sign up for an Ariel 40°C auto-dosed laundry system installation appointment each day will have an added bonus of receiving £20 worth of shopping vouchers on completion of the installation. Ariel will also be giving every visitor the chance to win £1,000 worth of shopping vouchers. Ariel will be on stand B10.
Seated exercise to be promoted in Training Zone SEATED exercise training specialist Tony Duke from Vitalyz is attending the Training Zone at the Care Show to help attendees ‘realise the benefits of seated exercise’. Tony recently met all the BUPA activity coordinators and managers to show them how to use the Vitalyz stress ball effectively and now all BUPA care homes can include the DVD in their activity programmes. Vitalyz are on the NAPA stand (H47) where you can buy their unique stress ball and massage ball DVDs
which demonstrate a range of simple exercises to be performed in a chair. These are ideal for individuals or small groups as they are easy to follow and empower people to do something positive for themselves. Vitalyz DVDs are only £5 each, and for every one sold at the show the company will donate 50p to NAPA. Vitalyz are also delivering a number of motivational and innovative courses for NAPA members during 2009.
Professional range makes a splash GAINSBOROUGH Baths incorporated the latest technology and built to strict quality standards their Professional range. The range offers complete reliability and includes height adjustable baths available with integrated seating systems, detachable transfer chairs and bathing platforms. These baths also offer many useful features designed to assist with the safety, comfort and hygiene of the user while minimising the risk of strain and injury to the carer. Where space is at a premium, a range of fixed height baths with seating options is also available. This includes their unique leg raising
unit designed to provide the user with total independence. This feature has been recognised by the Independent Living Commission for its innovation. The company has more than 20 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of baths for the care sector. Operating from a 40,000 sq. foot factory in the North Midlands, they are continually developing and providing innovative bathing solutions for use in hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare organisations as well as for individuals. Visit Gainsborough on stand F7 at the Care Show.
Impey presents stylish new bathroom solutions EASY access shower specialists Impey are bringing something very different to this year’s Care Show. The Courtier range aims to provide elderly and disabled people with a more stylish option to make their bathrooms easy access. The new range includes polished alloy half height shower doors with tinted glass screens, a contemporary fold down shower seat, chrome shower riser/grab rails, chrome support rails, chrome towel rails, polished alloy curtain rails and modern shower curtain, chrome fold down toilet support bar and more. The range was the idea of Impey Projects, a technical department of wetroom experts who research and develop new products at the company’s headquarters in Somerset. Its range of shower doors is available in six size options and features new tinted safety glass panels, plus an additional drop latch function that can be used as required. Come and see the new range at stand B60. Enquiries: Visit www.impey-uk.com Tel: 01460 256080
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CARINGCARE SHOW PREVIEW
Homes to be offered nutritional guidance
Care Show unveiling for new concept in telephoning
OCS Healthcare will be exhibiting at the Care Show following their success at the recent NACC conference and exhibition. Care homes are to be offered guidance on good nutritional care by the Government later this year and OCS Healthcare can help tailor specific packages to businesses along these guidelines. It offers the opportunity not only to revolutionise the quality and appeal of care home cooking, but also the chance to take out manage-
SIMPLA is unveiling a new concept in telephoning that uses touch talk at the Care Show. The SimplaPhone, the first of its kind, is a DECT phone that uses a large 7” touch screen which allows the user to dial and see who is calling you by photo, and all operated by the touch of a screen. Founder of Simpla, David Wilson, has been a leading figure with nursing homes for over 20 years. Having owned and operated the well respected Crown Nursing Homes in Oxfordshire, he saw that some res-
ment time, energy and costs associated with traditional in-house catering operations. The company strongly believes in sourcing locally, offering great taste and visual appeal, freshly prepared on the premises. The packages it offers are ideally suited to medium to large care home groups where OCS buying power and its investment in staff training will give operators the optimum return.
idents were unable to operate telephones without staff assistance and left residents feeling frustrated and less independent. Experience has provided David with an excellent insight into the needs of the aging population, and he came up with the idea for the SimplaPhone, a solution designed to enable residents to stay in touch with their families and loved ones and to retain their independence and peace of mind. Simpla will be on stand H7.
Tarkett covers every angle at Hexham Hospital
Knightsbridge seating and tables feature in hospice refit
AS part of the redevelopment of Hexham Hospital in Northumbria, a new extension was recently opened featuring c. 5000m2 of Tarkett flooring. This included Safetred safety floors, Acczent wood effect vinyl and high performance Optima iQ vinyl. Tarkett was a natural choice, having already supplied 5,500m2 of floorcovering to the main hospital when it opened in 2003. Ian White of FPL Ltd, flooring contractors to the PFI team, said: “Following the success of the earlier installations, Tarkett products were again selected for phase three. There were a lot of complicated skirting details within the new facilities, but Tarkett’s products offer excellent flexibility, making them perfect for this type of installation.” The new extension features a 30-bed inpatient ward and a 10-place assessment and treatment unit to the existing emergency care centre. A chronic disease management centre, education centre, laparoscopic surgical training institute and primary care centre complete the new facilities. Enquiries: Telephone 01622 854040.
SEATING and tables designed by Knightsbridge Furniture have been selected as part of an extensive refit of Springhill Hospice in Rochdale. This is the latest development in a relationship between the hospice management and the Knightsbridge team which stretches back nearly 20 years. An independent charitable organisation, Springhill Hospice opened in 1989 and provides palliative care for people of all ages with life-limiting illnesses, offering a holistic approach to improving their quality of life and supporting patients and carers coming to terms with extreme physical and psychological challenges. After a successful application to the Department of Health for refurbishment funding, and with additional help from The Wolfson Foundation, the dining rooms, reception area and kitchen have all been refitted, moving away from the previous institutional feel to a more stylish and contemporary ambience. Dining now takes places amidst fresh colours and soft lighting, while informal seating bays are dotted around the hospice. Enquiries: Telephone 01274 731900.
Girbau UK launches OWT Ozone laundry system GIRBAU UK and its service and installation division JHC Laundry Equipment are to launch a new ozone laundry system at the Care Show. Girbau UK markets an extensive range of washers with capacities from five to 120kg and dryers with capacities up to 76kg, as well as a range of ironers, folders and stackers. The new Girbau six series of washers, all of which are now covered by an extended guarantee scheme, are already among the most energy efficient machines in their class. The HS-6008 is top-rated for energy efficiency of all the machines tested by US body Energy Star. Peter Marsh, managing director of Girbau/JHC, said: “After three years of continuous development with Ozone Water Technologies of the US, our patented new ozone system is the perfect solution for the two biggest challenges facing on premise laundries (OPL) in care homes today — ensuring verified disinfection and dramatically reducing energy consumption and cost.” Girbau will be on stand F33. Enquiries: Telephone 0844 391 0395.
Fire training is just a click away FIRECO has launched a new cost-effective, e-learning fire safety awareness course designed to meet the legal requirement to deliver fire safety training to all levels of care staff Unlike typical online training, the e-learning fire safety awareness course engages and involves the user by using a blend of workplace simulations such as interactive activities, audio, images and text. The course is designed to maintain the user's involvement throughout, ensuring that they regularly interact with and apply the material being learnt. e-learning courses are also very cost effective, as they allow staff to be trained at times that fit in with their workload - eliminating the costs of lost productive time and replacement staff. Providing health and safety training online and monitoring staff progress increases safety in the workplace and contributes to fulfilling 'duty of care' obligations to staff. Systematic online training enables the workforce to maintain the level of compliance required with the minimum of effort and cost. Enquiries: Telephone 0845 241 7474.
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Death-probe home closed down By Louise Cordell A SOUTHAMPTON care home at the centre of an investigation into six deaths has been closed down. CSCI has obtained a court order to cancel the registration of The Briars Retirement Home in Bitterne Park after the safety and welfare of the elderly residents were judged to be at serious risk. This means the home cannot legally continue to operate. The application to the court followed concerns that led to the launch of a police investigation. CSCI subsequently carried out an inspection of the privately-owned home and found some of the
residents needed urgent nursing care. “The commission seeks an urgent cancellation order only when it considers people to be at serious risk, said CSCI’s regional director for the south east Amanda Sherlock. “The decision is never taken lightly. We know all too well the impact that the closure of a home can have on the people who live there, their families and their carers, as well as members of the staff. We have worked closely with the council and the PCT to try to secure the safety and welfare of the residents, but it had become clear that The Briars could not give them the level of care
and support that they need.” She added: "We could not allow this to continue, and that is why we sought the urgent order to cancel the registration of the home immediately, under Section 20 of the Care Standards Act 2000." Staff from Southampton City Council and Southampton City Primary Care Trust have assessed each of the residents at the 34-bed home, to ensure that their health and care needs are addressed, both in the immediate and long term, while seeking alternative accommodation for them. No one from the home was available to comment.
Amanda Sherlock
Golden couple renew their vows
Jean and Douglas Gisby
A COUPLE renewed their marriage vows at a care home 50 years after the big day. Jean and Douglas Gisby were joined by friends, family and even two of their wedding-day bridesmaids to celebrate the golden occasion. The ceremony was arranged at Oakdale Residential Home in Benfleet, Essex, where for the past year Douglas, 82, who has dementia, has been a resident. The couple have a house in nearby Thundersley, where Jean, 75, still lives, and were married at St Mary’s Church in Hawkwell. The ceremony and party was put on
by the home’s manager Melanie Rickett and while Jean knew she would be reciting her wedding vows, the fullblown party remained a surprise. “Douglas joined in with some of the singing and was a bit shocked by it all,” she said. “But it was a fabulous day and we were delighted to be able to help the family celebrate the occasion.” The couple were joined by their two daughters and three grandchildren, with one bridesmaid travelling in from Wales and the other from Canvey. All 26 other residents at the First Choice Care Homes Group home were also invited to the party.
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Care home celebrates after winning award A DORSET care home scooped the excellence in recruitment management award at the RBS Allcora Excellence in Care Awards 2008. The Old Vicarage in Leigh was presented with a cheque for £2,000 for the home at the Manchester ceremony which recognised organisations providing outstanding contributions to the care sector. The home’s manager, Natalie Adams, said: “It was a spectacular event and we’re extremely proud to be recognised for our hard work and dedication for recruiting staff through the Care Ambassadors scheme.” Four members of staff at The Vicarage have been involved with the scheme from the beginning, with three progressing into the home’s management team. The home has also recruited seven members of staff through the scheme. “I cannot emphasis enough how successful this scheme has been and the different ways it is being delivered across the regions,” said proprietor Annie Sinnott. “I am exceptionally proud to have been involved from the beginning and of how much my original staff have developed. Our staff team have been extremely supportive towards the project. “We continue to release staff from
The Old Vicarage’s Natalie Adams and deputy Sue Turner receive their award. their working day to go into schools and colleges to promote the care industry. We needed to change people’s perceptions of care.” The initiative was the brainchild of Denise Harrison from Skills for Care, and in 2003 Topss South West started developing it with pilots across Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole in conjunction with the local care sector partnership. A small team of ambassadors took the pilot into schools on a small scale in November 2003. It proved that the message and the way it is delivered has a significant impact on students when delivered by young social care professionals.
Care ambassadors are qualified and experienced care workers who act as role models to inspire and encourage young people to consider careers in social care. They are involved in a programme of working with schools, offering guidance and advice on the various career opportunities, and helping to facilitate a creative programme of work experience which covers the wide range of care careers and settings. The initiative was launched nationwide in February 2004 by the then minister for Community Care, Dr Stephen Ladyman, at the Topss England annual conference.
New BUPA role for Lorna BUPA Care Services has appointed Lorna Rose as director for London. Lorna, who joined Bupa in 1997, will be responsible for the company’s 25 care homes in the capital, which has an increasingly ageing population and rising demand for care services. She has more than a decade’s experience of the UK care market, moving from a home manager to the roles of regional manager and more recently deputy regional director with the company’s south east regional management team. Lorna said: “My aim is to make Bupa the care services provider of choice in the London area, and I will be working closely with local authorities and primary care trusts to ensure our care homes respond to the evolving needs of older people in London today and in the years ahead.” She will report to Oliver Thomas, Bupa’s south east regional director.
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Staff lather up for breast cancer charity STAFF at a Wales care home got themselves in a right old lather in the name of charity. The team at Gwern Alyn in Wrexham organised a series of events to raise money for Breast Cancer Care Wales. It was one of three local firms who launched a campaign to Paint the Town Pink for the climax of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Among the six events held at the home, under the leadership of manager Cindy Clutton, was a charity car wash, with all those taking part wearing special pink jackets and T-shirts and using buckets and sponges. Other fund-raising events included a fund-raising night, an auction and a raffle, a residents’ pink party, a coffee morning and a hairdressing session. “It is vitally important that we raise money and also raise awareness about breast cancer,” said Cindy. “There is no better cause because you don’t know which age group it’s going to affect. A couple of our residents have been affected by breast cancer and are on medication. “The response from members of staff has been nothing short of magnificent. They’re a brilliant bunch of people and they’re always up for a challenge.” It is hoped the Paint the Town Pink campaign will help the organisation to top last year’s overall total of £800,000.
Cheshire care home stars in Tory film By Mary Ferguson A CHESHIRE care home starred in a film shown at the Conservative party conference in Birmingham. Beeston View Memory Lane Community at Iddenshall Hall in Clotton was chosen by shadow health minister and local MP Stephen O’Brien after he opened the new 48-bed unit in the summer. He spent a day at the home to experience first-hand the specialist care that residents living with a dementia receive, and as a result created a short film about what he experienced which was shown at the conference. “I have been able to see at first hand the wide range of care needs from a generation that has already undergone so much in their lifetimes,” he said. “Person-centred, uniquely tailored care is critical to giving people the support and dignity they need and deserve. “This emphasises how much needs to be done to support the residents and their families. “There is no substitute for hands on care and working at Beeston View made me realise the enormous range of conditions and the challenges we all face as we plan for the future.” The home is owned by Barchester Healthcare, and managing director
Shadow health minister Stephen O’Brien talks to residents at Iddenshall Hall Tim Hammond appeared on an expert panel at the conference to discuss the subject of social care. Also making a guest appearance was Terry Pratchett OBE, who was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease last year. At the discussion Tim set out his thoughts on the need for the government to recognise the valuable role the care home industry has to play in the care strategy for the country’s ageing population.
He said: “With an ageing population and an increasing number of people being diagnosed with a dementia in the UK, the topic of care and the challenge that it presents for families is something that desperately needs to be addressed.” Tim added that high quality dementia care services have got to be part of the strategy in order to support the growing number of families caring for older relatives.
Social care is moving up political agenda By Martin Green SOCIAL care is rising up the agenda and election fever, despite the fact that the election is a long time off, has already started. It was noticeable this year that there was far more engagement with the Conservative Party conference than there had been for some considerable time and at the Labour Party conference a feel that the centre of gravity may well be shifting. All this uncertainty and pressure on our politicians really highlights the importance of our sector keeping good links with all politicians because for whatever reason – election, reshuffle, leadership change – we may all find ourselves dealing with different people and the pace of change is often very sudden. I have for a long time felt that party conferences have lost their way a bit and there was a time when it was really important for organisations to be there and to lobby on their issues. Increasingly, particularly as elections draw near, the focus tends to be on the internal jockeying for position that goes on rather than the external policy agenda.
Any organisation that is doing strategic policy work, as I hope we are, has had many opportunities to inform and to influence and it’s my view that these activities are better than necessarily appearing at party conferences. On the positive side, the conferences are sometimes great fun and you do see old friends and foes! The social care system is now coming to terms with the arrival of a new Minister, Phil Hope and we are all starting to think about how we work with him to ensure that the sector can play its part in delivering high quality care for our users. Phil Hope, like his predecessor, has a good track record of engagement and we are committed to working with him to ensure that he is briefed on the issues that affect the sector and that we are able to support him to deliver his objective for high quality flexible care. A major impediment to that objective will be funding. The last few weeks have been unprecedented in recent history and the implications of this crisis will run long and deep. There are bound to be implications for care providers who
need to raise funds for acquisitions and development and there will certainly be huge implications for local authorities and the Government who have lost money in failing banks and put in unimagined sums to prop up others. In a situation of such difficult and uncertain times we must ensure that the money available for care services is not diminished and that the commitment to developing services for an ageing society is honoured. I was pleased that the Prime Minister made a clear commitment to maintaining the level of social care funding and to assuring us all that the credit crunch will not become the social care squeeze. The implications of these turbulent times will become apparent in the next few weeks and on 12 November, at the ECCA conference ‘Mind the Gap!’ you will have your opportunity to speak directly to the people who have responsibility for guiding us through these choppy seas. The challenge for the Prime Minister and the Government is to ensure that the commitment to continued social care funding is delivered by the local authorities
Martin Green who distribute the money. It is a sad fact that increasingly pronouncements from the centre do not deliver outcomes in the localities. If Mr Brown does anything, it should be to connect up central Government policy with local government delivery and if he cannot or will not do that then all his pronouncements will be as nothing and his policy will have failed. Martin Green is the chief executive of the English Community Care Association (ECCA).
Liverpool invests in technology By Dominic Musgrave LIVERPOOL is to massively increase the use of technology which assists older people to live at home safely. Over the next three years, stateof-the-art telecare monitoring equipment is to be installed in more than 900 homes using £1.9million of funding from the city council and Liverpool PCT. “One of the biggest fears elderly people have about getting old is being uprooted and moved into a care home,” said councillor Ron Gould, executive member for health and social care. “The aim is to give people help and support to live in their own homes for as long as possible. “But what we don’t want to do is make them feel as if they’re under attack from technology, and the sensors and equipment are hardly detectable.” He added: “This scheme allows them to stay safe in their home for as long as possible, in an environment in which they feel comfortable. It also provides extra support and peace of mind for relatives and carers.”
It is hoped the scheme will reduce the number of people admitted to residential and nursing care, support the early discharge of patients from hospital and also provide an early warning of people who are experiencing difficulties living at home. Liverpool PCT chair Gideon Ben-Tovim said the initiative will make a difference to the lives of hundreds of older people and their families across Liverpool. “We know from experience that older people want to stay in their homes for as long as possible and the telecare system enables them to do this safely and removes a lot of the worry for family members,” he added. “Hundreds of older people in Liverpool are admitted to hospital or die each year because they become too cold or have a trip or fall. “Many of these incidents are avoidable or their severity could be reduced if the person was reached more swiftly and this system will ensure that any person, who has the system installed in their home, will be responded to quickly.”
The Duchess of Rothesay delivers a community meal to Ballater resident Sandy Irvine with NACC chair Sue Ullmann in attendance.
Duchess backs community meals on wheels service HRH The Duchess of Rothesay (also known as the Duchess of Cornwall) lent support to the Community Meals on Wheels service at the start of a national week of activity aimed at raising awareness of the service. At Ballater near Balmoral she saw the service in operation and helped deliver a two-course lunch to 93-yearold village resident Alexander (Sandy) Irvine. During her visit the Duchess also met representatives of the National Association of Care Catering (NACC), Meals on Wheels operatives and Aberdeenshire Council, to discuss how the provision of the mobile meal
service is a valuable part of the elderly homecare package. NACC national chair Sue Ullmann said: “As winter approaches it brings into stark focus how important a community meal is, particularly when you consider that the early signs of malnutrition often go unnoticed. It is only when a person needs to be admitted to hospital that the full extent, and indeed subsequent treatment cost, becomes known. “To stem any further decline we need a robust review of the service costs and greater sharing of best practice to ensure we keep the wheels on our meals.”
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How Trevor’s grandfather led him to Home Instead TREVOR and his wife found a niche in the market and their search led them to America, where they learned of Home Instead Senior Care. They decided to sell their IT business, remortgage their house and bring the franchise to the UK. The company now has 24 offices and revenue of £1.5m in July 2008. There are also similar franchises in 15 countries around the world. Home Instead provides companionship, meal preparation, assistance with bathing, incontinent care, local transportation, laundry and other personal care services. “It was a case of being in the right place at the right time,” he said. “We were looking for somebody to go into my grandfather’s house for a couple of hours a day to help out generally, collect his pension and perhaps take him to do a bit of shopping, but found nothing. “We found that most visits to people only lasted about 15 minutes, and you don’t really have time to take your coat off and have a cup of tea in that time, let alone
start providing care.” He added: “There was clearly a huge need and we really wanted to make a real difference so looked into buying a domiciliary care business, but there was nothing suitable. “We decided to see how they did it in other countries so jumped on a plane and went to America, which led us to Home Instead, and we brought the franchise over here in 2005.” With the Government setting out its plans to keep elderly people in their own home for longer, the necessity for companies like Home Instead would appear to be on the increase, but Trevor says there are no plans for rapid growth. “We know the demand is there but it is about controlled growth for us over the next few years,” he added. “There is the potential for us to grow massively and we probably only cover 10 per cent of the country at the moment, but we are only as good as the quality of care that we give.” Home Instead also help in care
Trevor Brocklebank
Paul Hogan
home settings where residents may need extra attention, personal assistance or companionship. One of their clients is the only male at a care home so once a week he is taken out for lunch and provided male company. The concept was the brainchild of Lori and Paul Hogan in 1994 when,
like Trevor, they struggled to find a carer for his grandmother. “She was given a year to live and was adamant she didn’t want to go into a care home so stayed in her own. She lived for 11 years and we proved that you don’t need a doctor or nurse to turn a life around. We restored her will to live.”
Equity release warning for pensioners By Mary Ferguson Nicki Allen receiving the National Training Award two years ago from Colin Jackson
Company looks to branch out A FAMILY-RUN domiciliary care company based in Sussex has announced plans to open new branches and acquire similar existing companies throughout the south east Prime Care employs care and support workers to help older and disabled people to remain independent in their own homes along the south coast between Brighton and Hastings. Formed in 2001, the company was the first social care organisation in the UK to achieve the advanced Investor in People Profile accreditation and was short-listed as an IiP Champion organisation in 2006. In March Prime Care won the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) Business Awards for Excellence in Skills and Development, building upon the prestigious National Training Award
two years earlier. “We focus on people, their care and their personal development,’ said the company’s development director Nicki Allen. “We have sought to achieve success through a unique employment proposition that attracts and retains the best people to deliver the best care. “We have chosen learning and staff development as our business platform and this allows us to adapt to new challenges and pursue new directions in community services.” Prime Care, who have been awarded an excellent rating by CSCI inspectors for the last two years, has teamed up with Close Ventures, one of the UK’s leading venture capital investors, which plans to invest up to £5million over the next five years to fund the development and expansion of operations throughout the region.
PENSIONERS struggling to make ends meet should only turn to equity release if there is no other option, warns Care Options in Retirement, a Which? essential guide. With rising living costs and the increased cost of long term care, the equity release may seem like the answer to financial problems faced by people after retirement. But equity release schemes can be very expensive, inflexible and leave people with little or no equity in their home, severely limiting their choices later in life warns the book. Any money released from these schemes may also affect the amount of means tested benefits people are entitled to. Major problems can also arise when borrowers’ circumstances change. For example, someone wanting to move to sheltered housing or a retirement home may have to repay some of the loan earlier than expected, potentially leaving too little equity to buy the new property. There can also be high charges for early redemption. “Equity release might seem like the
solution for any pensioners struggling to make ends meet this winter,” said Philip Spiers, co-author of Care Options in Retirement. “These schemes provide income while enabling you to stay in your own home. “However, if your circumstances change you might not have enough money remaining to fund alternative accommodation, and money received through equity release may seriously alter the amount of benefits you are able to collect. “Anyone considering equity release should do so cautiously – and only after exhausting other options. “In all cases, independent, professional advice should always be sought.” Care Options in Retirement recommends that before turning to equity release people first consider downsizing to a cheaper property, use existing savings, or even borrow from family who can be paid back when the property is eventually sold. People struggling with finances should also check their eligibility for state benefits or grants to assist with the cost of living.
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Association launched for operators By Dominic Musgrave
Anthony Ramsey Williams with Howard Crackle
£21m village development enters second phase By Nicola Hyde THE second phase in the development of the £21million Willow Court retirement village in Mumbles, Swansea has begun thanks to a funding package from The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS). Managing director for the care village, Anthony Ramsey Williams, purchased the site as a 43-bed care home in 1998. He has since increased the capacity to 90 beds, and in 2004 RBS provided the first round of funding to back the development of 57 apartments for the care village. Following the success of phase one, the development of phase two has begun as contractors work on a new 30-unit complex comprising 27 twobed-apartments and three one-bedapartments.
Phase two is due to be finished next summer, while phase three which is expected to involve the construction of 10 more apartments, a swimming pool, gym and a hydrotherapy area is expected to be started shortly after. The fully secure site is surrounded by maintained themed gardens and has a restaurant, coffee lounge, cocktail bar, library, cinema, hotel style room service, taxi service, home dining service, visitor suites, relaxation rooms and an on site surgery and beauty salon. he apartments are sold with a 120year lease with various funding packages available which can include meeting living and support costs. Willow Court was the first private sector investment in assisted living established in Wales and is the largest combined care facility in south Wales.
A TRADE association has been launched for operators of retirement villages. The Association of Retirement Village Operators UK (ARVOUK) has been established to enhance the professionalism of an industry attracting growing interest at a time when housing, health and care are becoming increasingly independent in a rapidly ageing society. “The once fledgling UK retirement village industry has grown up but has reached a tipping point,” said association chairman Nick Sanderson, chief executive of Raven Audley Court Plc. “It too must grow with the times and operate responsibly and to consistently high standards in the mutual interests of customers, operators, staff, the public and government. “Traditional stereotypes of what it means to be old are outdated. Today’s older generation are healthier and wealthier and seek choice, equality, opportunity, social connection and well-being. Retirement villages have the capacity to relieve mounting pressures on housing and care, whilst meeting the evolving needs, expectations and aspirations of a new generation of older people, rightly more demanding of quality of life.” The association will establish and promote a professional code of practice, but Nick says the first challenge is to remove confusion and ambiguity from an industry that suffers from blurred boundaries and a lack of definition, the legacy of having grown up in the absence of a UK template.
Nick Sanderson “The retirement village model of ‘supported independence’ integrates three core components: housing, social support networks, and access to care, all provided by long-term owners and operators and managers,” he added. “It recognises that the key determinant of quality of life at any age is social connection. It is fundamentally different from developer models of so called ‘retirement housing’ which have no ongoing commitment for service provision.” The association has been founded by Gavin Aleksich, managing director of Renaissance LifeCare Plc; Keith Cockell, deputy chairman of Richmond Villages; Hudson Cooper, chairman of Care Village UK Ltd and Jon Gooding, managing director of Retirement Villages Services.
Roger’s expertise drawn on for housing project FAITHFUL and Gould has drawn on the expertise of its extra care specialist Roger Standish for its latest social housing project with Milecastle Housing. Roger has more than 20 years of specialist extra care experience gained from previous work with a number of national housing associations, and is providing advice to Milecastle Housing during construction of The Manors. He said: “Endeavouring to meet the rapidly emerging demand for affordable, flexible, independent apartments offering choice of mixed tenure accommodation with tailored care for older people in the North East Region, The Manors is Milecastle Housing’s first extra care housing scheme in response to the region’s housing strategy. “Responding to the predicted 75
per cent increase in the number of people in the UK aged over 65 during the next 30 years, affordable extra care housing schemes are becoming an important part of the local community and it is therefore essential that they receive the best guidance and advice available. The extra care project will see Faithful and Gould providing project management, quantity surveying and construction design management coordination expertise as well as acting as an ecohomes assessor on the £6.5million scheme, The Manors. The new facility will provide an independent living environment for the over 55s consisting of 46 extra care apartments in West Wylam. It will also incorporate amenities for the residents and local community including a restaurant, internet lounge, function rooms, hair salon,
Sean McKeon, associate director of Faithful and Gould with extra care specialist Roger Standish treatment room and a day care centre. The Manors, funded by the Department of Health in partnership
with the Northumberland Care Trust, Tynedale Council and Northumberland County Council, is due to be completed in May 2009.
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Dominic Musgrave visited three Lincolnshire care homes and found that residents’ meetings are central to daily life.
Why Mags ensures residents have a major say in running of the home CHESTNUT House between Lincoln and Gainsborough in the village of Marton is home to 19 residents and owned by Prime Life. Mags Turner has been at the home for eight years, with the last two-and-a-half as manager. “We offer support to the residents and encourage them to sign on for college courses in Lincoln or work experience,” she said. “It teaches them different life skills and improves their confidence.” Residents also have a major say in the running of the home, and choose the activities which go on on. “We are making Christmas decorations at the moment,” she added. “But we also do competitions, have DVD nights, play bingo – anything the residents want to do really. “One of our clients also teaches the other some basic sign
language, which again gives her confidence. And a couple of staff here are from India so they are teaching the staff some basic Hindi words so they feel part of the team.” Margaret also encourages interaction with the group’s other homes in the area, with residents invited to events such as bonfire night or the Valentine’s disco. Work is currently underway to build seven flats in the home’s grounds for residents who may not want to move into a care home but need support to live independently. They should be complete by spring next year. “They are the next step from a care home,” added Mags. “The people who move in will have their own kitchen, living room and bedrooms, but will have the support of the home as and when they need it. “They will also have help with looking after money and paying the bills as well.”
Mags Turner
Homes compete at bowls
Julie Quincey with local Orders of St John Care Trust home managers Sue Green (Fosse House) and Tracy Turfrey (Ermine House)
BOULTHAM Park residents regularly meet up with other people from the five other Orders of St John Care Trust homes in the region at events. Each of the group’s homes held a themed picnic during the summer months, and they regularly compete with each other at indoor bowls. Manager Julie Quincey said: “The group encourages a lot of community activities and we are always interacting with the other homes in the area when we have events or entertainment.” Boultham has recently opened its new vegetable garden, and plans are in place for the residents to take more of an active role in the planting and growing.
Food changes on the menu HOMER Lodge manager Angela Ryan has recently changed the menu following a residents’ meeting. Curry, home made soup and lasagne are now among the choices as part of a month’s trial at the home. “Food is very important to the residents and is one of the things they look forward to,” said Angela. “We have put two boards up in the lounge area with a list of activities for the day and the menus for lunch and tea. It is a way of keeping people informed of what is going on here.”
The Halcyon Group care home has 47 residents, with an extension opening at the end of last year with an additional 14 rooms, lounge and kitchenette for residents and their relatives to spend time together. “The extension has gone down really well with everyone and has provided more places for the residents to sit rather than all being in the same lounge ,” she added. “Work should start shortly to bring the old part of the home up to a similar standard.” The home also has a contract
with Lincolnshire PCT and as part of the Intermediate Care scheme has been working to avoid inappropriate admissions to hospital and using the home as a gate keeper. “We are also working to prevent early discharge from hospital to the home, reducing bed blocking,” she added. “As a result of our successes we have also begun receiving referrals from local GPs to admit residents for assessment and rehabilitation, pending their referral to the scheme.
Angela Ryan
Residents are also involved with the major decisions at the home, everything from the colour scheme for the refurbishment to the choosing of new staff. “This is their home and so it is only right that they should have a say in how it is run,” added Julie. “They have chosen the furniture and the colour schemes for the refurbishment, and when we are doing interviews with potential new members of staff we come up with a list of questions or conversation topics for the residents and ask them for feedback.” Residents have also been involved in the recent launch of a new cook book by the Trust.
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People can follow the progress of Jewish Care's new Golders Green care campus online thanks to the installation of a ‘Lobster Pot’ camera on the site. The digital camera provided by Bristolbased Lobster Pictures takes images at regular intervals and these can be viewed on the company’s website www.lobsterlapse.tv by entering the password and user name jewishcare. Benjamin Morrison, assistant director of fundraising, who came up with the idea, said: “This is such a momentous project for Jewish Care we thought it was important to have a permanent record of the huge amount work going on. Clients, donors, staff, volunteers and the community can check on its progress from anywhere in the world and see history in the making.”
Builder could boost home value if resold By Christina Eccles EMPLOYING a builder to take care of the building and property management of a care home could increase its value if the property is re-sold, an expert has revealed. Speaking at the Yorkshire Care Providers Conference, regional leader of ROK plc Mitchell Smith told delegates that involving a reputable building firm when building a new care home and when maintaining or making improvements is useful because a smart, well maintained
home could be easier to sell. A home with an attractive appearance may also encourage people to choose to go there rather than another home. He said: “Your asset value increases through acquisition when you can prove you have a consistent maintenance regime and a well managed home. “People who buy property will look at its history of maintenance so it adds value if the property is maintained correctly.”
He also revealed the other benefits to care homes of outsourcing building work. These include: Builders are up to date with legislation on your behalf. Maintaining the building properly and ensuring it looks smart helps with occupancy rates. Materials procurement. Your risk is managed which allows you to focus on operations. Mitchell also said when building a care home, it is important to involve
a builder in the process as early as possible so they can assist with the planning process and make sure you get the cheapest costs for labour and raw materials. He added: “When building a care home, involve the builder as early as you can. “They will give advice on what you should build and where – for example a two storey building is better for a care home than a three or four storey because of factors such as a fire escape facility and disabled access.”
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CARINGPROPERTY AND FINANCE
Wellington House in Stowmarket, Suffolk
Care group announces plan to extend one of its homes EAST ANGLIA based care group Healthcare Homes has unveiled plans to extend one of its homes. Wellington House in Stowmarket, Suffolk, which the company acquired in June 2008, is to cater for more residents with a new extension in the grounds of the existing care home. Building work has begun on the property and on completion will extend the capacity of the home, creating another 22 beds. Chief executive Richard Clough said: “Wellington House is a Grade II listed building so for the extension to be approved by the local authority we had to ensure it was totally in keeping with the original property. It has been quite difficult, but with local support and the help of the planning department, a realistic design has been approved.”
Scheduled for completion in June next year, the extension, which will cater primarily for residents with dementia, will be complemented by landscaped gardens, extra car parking facilities for visitors and more day space for residents. Meanwhile, work on the extension to Claremont House in Caister-On-Sea, Norfolk is nearing completion. The residential home will also care for residents with dementia and create another 24 beds, increasing the total number of beds provided by the home to 50. “It’s quite exciting, watching work progress and seeing the building take shape,” said Claremont House manager Lynda Parsons. “We hope to welcome our first residents early next year.”
Major move forward for £165m plan A £165 million project to improve the lives of older people has taken a major step forward with construction work getting underway at a new apartment scheme. The 59 extra care apartments at Mattersley Court, which was named by residents, will give tenants their own home in a communal scheme, along with 24 hour care and support services. The project will also include a day centre, restaurant, hairdressing salon, shop and wellbeing suite, all of which will be available to the local community. “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Walsall Council on this very exciting development, which will transform housing and care provision for local people,” said Housing 21 operational manager Deborah Rostant. “Mattersley Court is the first of the extra care schemes to get underway. We will also be providing a specialist unit for dementia care as well as refurbishing a residential care home to provide a facility for intermediate care.” Under the terms of the contract, Housing 21 will provide 285 one and two bedroom apartments and day care facilities for frail older people across Walsall. Many of the new residents will transfer from local residential care homes which are scheduled to close over the next three years. Each apartment is designed for wheelchair access and will have its own living room, fully fitted kitchen, walk-in shower, fitted carpets and non-slip flooring to the kitchen and bathroom. Facilities for residents also include a laundry and assisted bathroom. Mattersley Court will consist of a mix of one bedroom and two bedroom apartments, 14 of which will be available to purchase on a shared ownership basis. The development, which is being
Visiting the site for Mattersley Court are Active Living support officer Lydia Cresswell, Brian Taylor, who will be the manager when the scheme opens and resident Ronald Bishop, who will be one of the first residents.
constructed by Inspace, is scheduled to complete in September of next year. The second extra care scheme in the project, Alrewych Court in Aldridge, is due to complete later the same month
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CARINGNEWS
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CARINGPROPERTY AND FINANCE
M and D Care Limited has acquired a property which has been converted into a residential care home providing mental health care to adults thanks to a funding package of £420,000 from The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS). The property, which was built in 2003, is located in a Foelgastell, near Carmarthen. It has been converted to four en suite rooms, in addition to an office, staff room,
dining room, conservatory and two lounge areas. Owners Debra Seldon and Michelle Martin have worked in mental health services for more than 24 years and are using their new company to branch out on their own. Pictured: Howard Crackle and Kathryn David from RBS with Michelle Martin and Debra Seldon
GLP Taylors has completed the sale of Plas Eleri Nursing Home in Denbighshire on behalf of a family operator. The home, which was purpose built in the 1990s, offers accommodation for 35 people over two floors. It has been purchased by a rapidly expanding group operator and adds to their portfolio in the region.
An impression of the redevelopment.
Go-ahead given for Enfield scheme PLANNING permission has been granted for the redevelopment of Cyril Smith and Stratheden Housing development in Enfield. Archadia’s design and concept of the scheme is unusual as it provides accommodation for both older people and people of all ages with disabilities. The new building will incorporate two solar energy producing towers and geothermal piles which will provide energy for under floor heating in both the communal rooms and the individual flats. The development will feature 20 one bedroom sheltered flats for
£1.4million contract awarded
A private investor looking to expand his business portfolio has acquired Dovecote Care Home in Herefordshire. The home is currently registered for 13 residents operating from a detached property, which was converted from a residential dwelling in the 1990s and extended soon after to meet increasing demand in the area. Planning permission for a further six bedrooms is in place. The home was sold by Redwoods Dowling Kerr on behalf of owners Mr and Mrs Millman for an undisclosed sum from an asking price of £800,000.
Home sale completed DC Care has completed the sale of The Old Vicarage care home in Herefordshire. The Old Vicarage was built in 1852 and the Wellingtonia American Red Cedar tree standing in the front garden was planted to commemorate the completion of the building. Due to family commitments the vendors Mr and Mrs Davies decided to sell the home after almost 16 years. The Old Vicarage, which is registered to accommodate 16 residents and includes a three bedroom cottage set to the rear, was sold to existing operators Mr and Mrs Ubhee.
older people, six two bedroom flats for wheelchair users and a two bedroom flat for the scheme manager, who will live on site and be available to assist all residents. Archadia director Patrick Manwell said: “This is an interesting example of multi generational housing more akin to some of the accommodation provided in other parts of Europe.” The project has been funded by the Housing Corporation and owned by Christian Action Housing Association, who will provide the flats on a rental basis to residents.
Company is planning to more than double in size AVERY Healthcare plans to more than double in size over the coming year with the development of at least another eight care homes. The company, under its financial umbrella Optimum Care, is now bucking the trend in investment in the care sector with another £65 million investment from RBS and Graphite Capital. Avery sold off several homes in the north east to Southern Cross two years ago and following a refinancing has developed a series of new homes in several locations. The other eight homes now planned for development include facilities in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, Grantham, Lincolnshire
and Peterborough. A new 73-bed facility is planned for Chippenham, Wiltshire to open in late 2009, with another new care home in the West Midlands, one in Nottingham, an additional facility in Kettering and a further new care home in Somerset. Avery managing director John Strowbridge said: “We have been very fortunate to have the assistance and foresight of RBS and Graphite Capital who have both seen the advantages of both the business model we operate and the kind of people centred care we create in our homes. “In all we have 780 beds in the pipeline on top of the 240 we have in existing homes.”
HOUSING 21 Dementia Voice has been awarded a £1.4million care contract with the London borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. Under the terms of the three-year contract, which will begin towards the end of this year, Housing 21 will deliver nearly 600 hours of care across 25 high dependency units each week at the Imperial Wharf Extra Care Service. “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract with the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham,” said Les Clarke, director of older people’s services for Housing 21. “This is a prestigious scheme that will offer older people with high care needs a high standard of care in their own home. Housing 21 will provide on site care staff 24 hours a day. “The contract will also provide catering facilities, which will be provided by Medirest, a well respected catering partner that has an established relationship with Housing 21 in other extra care housing provision.”
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CARINGTRAINING
Academy launch welcomed Keep on top with staff training HEADS of the leading care associations have welcomed the launch of a national skills academy for the social care sector. John Denham, secretary of state for innovation, universities and skills, announced that the first welfare-related skills academy, which will target training and development support, will become an independent organisation on March 30 2009. It will particularly focus on small and medium sized organisations with limited training and development budgets. The UKHCA’s chief executive Lesley Rimmer, who has been involved in the steering group for the bid, applauded the Givernment’s decision. She said: “A Skills Academy for social care is vital given the increased significance of social care in policy and the contribution it makes to people’s everyday lives. “UKHCA has repeatedly called on the government to put more emphasis and commitment into the needs of the social care workforce and in creating a Skills Academy for our sector the government has clearly recognised the case for support.” ECCA chief executive Martin Green echoed the views, adding: “The development of a
Association leaders join John Denham, secretary of state for innovation, universities and skills, at the launch of the national skills academy for the social care sector. sector-led skills academy will ensure that skills and competencies are developed within the workforce and the training agenda will deliver staff able to make real the commitment to personalised care services.” The announcement followed a competitive bidding process which culminated in four skills academies being approved. Skills for Care CEO Andrea Rowe went on to praise the steering group’s work in securing the academy. “Social care is a huge driving force in the British economy and we need all the resources we can get to upskill the workforce,” she added. “I’m confident the Skills Academy is a wise investment that will help make sure people who use services get high quality care wherever they live."
The Skills Academy will receive £1.5m over three years from the Learning and Skills Council. Department of Health is contributing £2million over three years, and social care employers will also make a contribution. “Now, more than ever, we need to develop innovative training that inspires and empowers a new generation to realise their ambitions, and to deliver the very best patient care,” said John at the launch. “A new National Skills Academy for Social Care will help build a world-beating workforce that will improve standards and help shape rewarding careers – not just among new recruits but within the existing workforce.”
STAFF training is essential to keep on top of an increase in legislation according to Quantum Group managing director Karen Bardoe. She says the greater amount is the result of a rapid growth and development of services for care of the elderly owing to an ageing population. And they are in an attempt to ensure that standards in the care sector meet the required needs of the service user. Karen says the greatest challenge is coordinating and focusing training resources to respond to the collective needs of
the service user, employee and the employer. And that there is in the present climate an eclectic mix of training providers and training personal including onsite trainers. “A care home may ask one company to deliver training and then follow this up with another company, resulting in its employees receiving conflicting information,” she said. “There does not appear to be any standardisation within the training industry apart from meeting CSCI’s agenda.”
Free factsheets BVS Training are offering free training factsheets for managers via their website www.bvs.co.uk Factsheets are sent out approximately 10 times a year, but new subscribers can access the full back catalogue of information including first aid, effective hand hygiene, dementia care,
active listening or train the trainer. BVS Training’s DVDs for social care cover a range of 60 topics to help managers and trainers. They also run train the trainer courses for social care professionals who want to deliver in-house training for their organisation.
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CARINGTRAINING
Mark Hewitt
Provider in apprentice advice CARE homes should consider offering apprenticeships to create a well-trained and motivated workforce, according to a training provider. Managing director of Access Training Mark Hewitt told the audience at a care sector conference in Leeds hosted by law firm Lee and Priestley LLP there are many benefits for a business which offers apprenticeships – and care homes could cash in on them as a cost effective way to train both their existing staff and new starters. He said as demand for apprenticeships grows and as more money is being invested in to them, it is an ideal time for the care sector to get involved. Mark said: “An apprenticeship is a form of vocational training based on a mixture of work-based and theoretical learning and is a proven way of training people to develop the skills you need as employers. “Apprenticeships unlock talent, build relevant skills and expand opportunities. My view is that this is the best way to expand your business.” Mark also revealed the benefits to care homes who allow their staff to gain the relevant qualifications which include Health and Social Care NVQ Level Two and Health and Social Care NVQ Level Three.
Benefits include: A cost effective and flexible way of training staff, both new and existing. Creates a well trained, motivated workforce – additional training requirements can be included in an apprenticeship programme for example customer care or service skills. Increased productivity leading to improved company performance. Increased competitive edge. Anyone is eligible to enrol on an apprenticeship providing they: Are not a post graduate. Not currently in full time education. Not on another full time training course. Receive a minimum of £80 per week. An EU resident for three years or more. He added: “Government aspirations are for 400,000 apprentices in England by 2010 and there is an untapped and growing demand for apprenticeships. There is an exciting opportunity for the sector to get involved.” Do you offer apprenticeships at your care home? If so why not contact Dominic Musgrave by emailing dm@whpl.net or ringing 01226 734407.
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CARINGNEWS
Helping you understand your recruitment needs CARE Training East Midlands and Jobcentre Plus have been working together with care and nursing homes to understand their recruitment and training needs and help their business to grow. The care organisations offer people opportunities to get back into the workplace through interviews, mentoring, job training or work trials. Care Training then helps recruit the individuals for the homes. By working with Jobcentre Plus and employers, the company is delivering training that not only meets the real needs of employers in the care indus-
try but is also contributing towards the worklessness agenda of the region. The training is delivered in a way that refers to the actual workplace the individual would like to gain employment. Once in work the employee has the opportunity to complete an NVQ suited to the level that they are working. Employers that are part of Local Employment Partnerships have added access to further funding, lowering their costs and improving the level of care given to customers.
New packaging solution is environmentally friendly A resident takes part in the plastic dart (javelin) competition
Residents get competitive A LINCOLNSHIRE care home held its second Olympics-style competition for residents. Willow Court in Cherry Willingham hosted the event over two weeks, with all residents taking part as participants, spectators or even cheerleaders. Evelyn Andrew carried the torch to get the activities under way. Athletes participated in a variety of events ranging from target practice
and skittles to weightlifting and blow football as well as games on the Nintendo Wii games console. The competition ended with all of the athletes, their families and friends and care centre staff gathering for the closing ceremony. All the participants received a certificate and the winners were presented with a medal engraved with their name and event.
Knightsbridge wins top award KNIGHTSBRIDGE Furniture Productions, designer and manufacturer of furniture for the international care and healthcare sectors, has been awarded ISO 14001:2004 by the British Standards Institute for its environmental management system. The award was presented to the Knightsbridge team by David McLean of the BSI Group and was formally accepted by the Bradford-based company’s president and founder Dr Arnold Moore and chairman Margaret Miller. ISO 14001 is designed to reward companies who operate to the highest ethical standards while addressing the delicate balance between maintaining profitability and reducing environmental impact. Managing director Alan Towns said: “Having identified all aspects of our business which have an impact on the environment and demonstrated an understanding of the relevant environmental laws, we have subsequently produced objectives for improvement, putting into place both a comprehensive management strategy and an ongoing monitoring programme.” Also present were financial director Chris Smith, non-executive director Steve Bullas and health and safety manager Kevin Weeks. Enquiries: Telephone 01274 731900.
FLOWFOOD Ltd has taken a significant step towards greener packaging by adopting an innovative, environmentally-friendly meal tray system which is already the preferred packaging for more than 70 per cent of the US senior meals market. Flowfood, which operates across the UK and produces more than 50,000 quality meals every week, is replacing its plastic ‘c-pet’ and metal food trays with Olipak from Oliver Products. The move will bring the benefits of Oliver’s selection of multi-compartment, environmentally friendly paper pulp trays to more than two million users every year. Olipak trays stay cool to the touch but bring freshly sealed, hot food straight to the table. The trays can be frozen to minus 40°C and heated to 205°C in conventional or microwave ovens. The trays also bring big safety advantages because they provide greater rigidity when heated and the film seal adheres firmly to all inner compartment edges. Enquiries: Telephone 0800 011 2311 or visit www.oliverproducts.co.uk
Simple solutions SINCE 1982, Colne (Lancs) based, Richards Residential Supplies have concentrated upon supplying simple solutions to common nursing home problems. The new WACMAT® adheres strongly to this tradition. With its ultra absorbent cotton pile and 100 per cent waterproof backing, the remarkable WACMAT® is an ideal accessory where spills may occur. Used as a commode mat, in bedrooms or bathrooms, the WACMAT® ensures full carpet protection. Then, after use, simply machine wash and tumble dry! It’s that simple... The WACMAT® will then be clean and odour-free, ready to perform time and time again. Alternatively the flatlaying WACMAT® can be used as an entrance mat, saving you hundreds of pounds in rental costs alone. Contact: 0800 074 3749.
Fireco - leaders in fire safety for the care sector COME and meet Fireco, the official fire safety consultants to the UK’s leading care sector associations, on stand F13 at the Care Show, hall seven, Birmingham NEC on November 5 and 6 and discover why we are the UK’s leading specialists in simple, effective services and solutions for fire safety management. Talk to Fireco’s fully qualified fire safety consultants about how they assist care home owners and managers to meet their responsibilities for fire risk assessment through the company's training and consultancy services; and see Fireco’s wide range of fire safety solutions including Dorgard, Deafgard and System X. Be among the first to see a live demonstration of Fireco’s new innovative e-learning fire safety awareness course - the cost-effective solution that’s designed to meet the legal requirement to deliver fire safety training to care staff. Enquiries: Telephone 0845 241 7474
To advertise in Caring UK please call 01226 734479
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CARINGNEWS
Owner fined for chopping down trees A CARE home owner has been fined more than £3,500 for chopping down trees protected by tree preservation orders. Following guilty pleas, landowner Fraser Presence, trading as Caremore LLP, a company providing sheltered accommodation for the elderly, was fined £3,510, £1,170 for each tree, and contractor St Albans Tree and Garden Services Ltd was fined £600 for cutting down a birch tree and two horse chestnut trees at a property in London Road, St Albans. Fraser was also ordered to pay the prosecution costs of £327.95.
Three-star celebration A SOMERSET care home is celebrating after it was awarded a three-star ‘excellent’ rating by CSCI inspectors. Somerset Care’s Croft House in Williton will have a certificate to display within the home to mark their achievement, and will receive the county council’s ‘Quality Premium Payment’. Manager Diane Allen said: “I am delighted that Croft House has been awarded three stars. This achievement is a reflection of the hard work of everyone at the home, and I hope everyone agrees that it is well deserved.”
Sensory garden gets seal of approval By Dominic Musgrave CELEBRITY gardener Charlie Dimmock has given a new sensory garden at a London care home her seal of approval. Homemead in Teddington, which provides specialist care for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s, had the work completed over the summer to create a safe area with strong smells, colours and textures. Charlie, who starred in the BBC’s Ground Force garden makeover programme, said: “Everyone deserves to enjoy a garden. This is just as true for people who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer’s as anyone else, and I think that it’s wonderful that the residents of Homemead can now get more pleasure out of their home. “Designing a garden to stimulate your sight, sound, smell and touch is an excellent way to motivate and please people regardless of health and abilities.” The new facility was created thanks to a grant of £8,600 from the London Borough of Richmond and fundraising over more than £20,000. The total was more than required for
the garden so the home has refurbished a bathroom as well. Home manager Carmel Regan, who came up with the idea, said: “Previously we were listed as a residential home but when we changed to become a specialist centre for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia, I thought a sensory garden would be good for residents. “It means we can provide a secure area outdoors where residents can go to walk or sit in a calming environment. It gives them a sense of space, with a non-slip path they can walk around and specific plants chosen because they are calming, like lavender.” She added: “The reaction from the residents has been fantastic. “We have already held birthday and wedding anniversary parties out there. “They can get out to it more easily than before and can sit indoors and look out onto it. We are delighted with how it has turned out.” The sensory garden was designed by local gardener Rupert Peters with help from aromatherapist Maria Harvey.
Charlie Dimmock
Hope to address ECCA’s annual conference NEW social care minister Phil Hope will give the ministerial address at ECCA’s annual conference. The conference, which takes place at the Bloomsbury Holiday Inn on November 12, has the theme ‘Mind the Gap! The future of care’ and delegates will be able to hear the
minister’s personal vision for tackling the key concerns facing the sector, particularly in the areas of funding, regulation and personalised services. Following the minister will be another leading sector figure with new responsibilities, Baroness Young, chair of the Care Quality
Barbara gives heart-felt talk BARBARA Pointon MBE was the keynote speaker at Coverage Care’s annual conference held at Shrewsbury FC’s ProStar Stadium. She gave a heart-felt presentation to more than 100 carers, managers and staff of how she cared for her husband for 16 years when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Barbara and her husband Malcolm were documented in the award winning television documentary Malcolm and Barbara … Love’s Farewell last year which showed the effects the disease has on the person with dementia and the family carer. Speaking about the draft National Dementia Strategy 2008 for England, which has recently been released, Barbara said: “We need to create more awareness of dementia and how people suffer. People can go undiagnosed, sometimes for several years before seeking help; the strategy aims to make it clear what dementia is, gain access to earlier diagnosis and to know that help is available” Coverage Care has been working with Bradford University and separately Watford and North Shropshire College to develop the practice of care staff and train staff in advanced observational techniques including Dementia Care Mapping (DCM).
Commission, to give the conference her perspective on the future regulation of the social care sector. The line-up is completed by John Dixon, president of ADASS, with a presentation on partnerships, personalisation and funding.
15 jobs saved at troubled company
Coverage Care chief executive David Coull with Barbara Pointon
FIFTEEN jobs have been saved at a company that provides carers and inhome care services which went into administration. Ingram Care Services Limited in Gateshead, provided care services to both Newcastle and Gateshead councils. Joint administrators Simon Lundy and Andrew Haslam, of Begbies Traynor, in Newcastle, have negotiated a deal to sell the assets and business to Positive Life Choices, of South Shields, South Tyneside, for an undisclosed sum. Ingram Care Services were the subject of a winding up petition issued by HM Revenue and Customs, who were owed unpaid VAT and PAYE.
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CARINGPRODUCT NEWS
YTM moves into soft furnishings YTM thought it was about time to add another string to their bow having manufactured contract furniture for the care industry for almost 30 years. After a successful launch of their new brochure in early 2007, which has been well received by customers and created lots of interest within the market as a whole, YTM were looking for their next challenge and soft furnishings seemed the next obvious step. After conducting two customer surveys 12 months apart, the results highlighted the overwhelming need that YTM’s customers wanted to work with a company that could offer the turnkey package. YTM made the
move into soft furnishings by employing their very own interiors expert, Yvonne Roberts, who has had over 20 years’ experience working specifically in the furnishing market. “I was delighted to be approached by YTM Furniture to head up their soft furnishing division,” she said. “After working in the soft furnishings industry for many years it is exciting to work for a growing company who are enthusiastic about constantly developing new designs for their clients with genuinely fresh ideas.” Over the past 12 months they have developed these existing relationships and are now working with all major contract fabric manufacturers.
New era in medication management witnessed
LifeSys business development and training manager Damien Joyce and managing director Chris Taylor at the installation of Care Monitor in Amesbury Abbey Nursing Home in Amesbury, Wiltshire.
Monitor launched NOTTINGHAMSHIRE based technology company LifeSys Limited will launch their new Care Monitor product at the Care Show. The new product will help homes improve their quality of care and reduce their costs. Care Monitor incorporates the benefits of several sophisticated sensors into one complete resident monitoring system. The system includes a bed sensor for out of bed/ fall alarms, an ‘Inco Sensor’ to detect in-bed incontinence, an automatic night light for extra safety and a door sensor for early detection of night time wandering. An audit trail facility allows managers to view a complete record of all care events. Managing director Chris Taylor said: “Care Monitor will ease the work load of care staff and managers alike while providing residents with greater independence and dignity and a more peaceful night’s sleep.” LifeSys will be the only company in the industry to use Power Line Communication Technology to send alarms to staff. The technology uses the extra capacity that is already available in a home’s electric wiring system, thus offering a secure and reliable alternative to radio or hard wired systems.
HUNDREDS of delegates witnessed a new era in medication management unveiled at the British Pharmaceutical Show. Protomed, a pioneering hi-tech British design company, officially unveiled its ground-breaking new product Biodose for the first time in the UK. Chief executive Norman Niven was interviewed on camera for the looped TV programme shown at the show, with one ITN producer describing it candidly as “the most interesting stand at the show”. He explained how Biodose is a revolutionary monitored dosage system that allows same-tray dispensing of liquids and tablets. It is the world’s first total medication management system – or ToMM, as Protomed has trademarked it, which
is the next evolutionary step. The added safety and security impressed delegates at the event, especially the unique anti-microbial technology that effectively combats the transfer of MRSA and other infections. And the Manchester-based firm has seen a new wave of enquiries as a direct result of the three-day conference. “The BPC was a great event, we were delighted with the positive reaction from delegates and we have received a lot of enquiries as a result,” said Norman.“The simplicity of the Biodose system will provide pharmacists with serious volume business in care homes by providing a better offer.” The product will be on display on stand C37 at the Care Show.
SCIFIT installs fitness kit SCIFIT has installed, in support of HIORNS International Ltd, a range of fitness equipment for Hazel Court Residential Village, Sketty Park, Swansea, South Wales. The new development will have 120 one and two bedroom flats, all designed for wheelchair accessibility, and hardwired for assistive technology. There will also be many communal facilities, including a health suite. The range of fully inclusive equipment supplied by SCIFIT will
allow for a wide range of users according to the company’s UK managing director, Steve Wright. He said: “Our range of fully inclusive equipment supports our ethos that fitness should be for all, no matter the age, size, shape, ability or disability.” The equipment supplied will include treadmills, REX™ (recumbent ellipticals), recumbent bikes, total and upper body ergometers.
Evacuation chairs could save lives EACH year there are around 800 fires in care homes resulting in tragic deaths and serious injuries. The mobility-impaired are at greatest risk. Any evacuation aid that can save precious time could save precious lives. Evacuation chairs provide a safe and speedy means of maneuvering mobility-impaired residents to safety, on the flat and on the stairs. Choosing a chair that can be handled by a single person will help get more people to safety, fast. Safelincs Ltd have now introduced the ParaChair to their suite of evacuation aids. The ParaChair is a single operator wheelchair which uses continuous friction belts within the chair’s frame to control the descent of the chair on stairs. Under the Fire Safety Order, care home managers and owners have responsibility to make an assessment of the fire risk in their premises and prepare a plan to manage that risk. Safelincs Ltd offer comprehensive onsite fire risk assessment services.
Software helps end paper trail OVER the last 11 years Tagtronics has developed software for all aspects of the care sector and helped companies to replace the endless trail of paper. Information can be in one central place for ease of access when requested by your inspectors. The product also takes away the time consuming effort of preparing rotas, covering visits, calculating mileage and expenses, invoicing and payroll. It also has a full audit trail facility Tagtronics can also take care of all carers’ training, supervision reviews, appraisals, CRB expiries, holidays and sickness, ensuring the ‘best match’ carer attends the visit. It can also assist with service user reviews, respite and care plans and ultimately provide a fully comprehensive list of reports required by social services, care standards and the relevant care commission. This then allows staff to be more efficient and focus on what they do best, which is providing care for their clients.
Why Badgemaster is the choice of thousands FOR award winning, top quality room and residents’ door signs be sure to look at the Badgemaster range. It is already the choice of 1000s of residential and nursing homes. There are gold or silver door plates with smart, replaceable engraved inserts – extremely easy
to read and also available with Braille, and Braille and tactile, if required. Badgemaster provides a fast, efficient service for replacement, low-cost engraved inserts with no minimum order, as and when changes occur. Choose from two sizes (1” x 8” –
25mm x 200mm or 2” x 8” – 50mm x 200mm) now with handy endstops that make for secure, tamperproof identification of room use or occupier. Just let Badgemaster know your requirements. If room use or details change, the service for replacement inserts is just as quick and efficient.
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CARINGNEWS