Caring Uk October 2011 by Script Media

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October 2011

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Call for more recognition of disorder care By Dominic Musgrave A MANCHESTER care home manager has called for a major overhaul to the way Schizophrenia is recognised. Angela Baker, manager of Overton House, says more should be done to make governing bodies aware of the work care homes do to treat people with the disorder to make extra funds available. She also told Caring UK that a new registration category, similar to that for dementia, should be created as it is a condition thousands of people suffer from. Angela added: “All we seem to hear about is dementia, and specialist homes get paid more money for caring for people with the condition, which is fair enough. It’s not an easy job and l have three service users with dementia. “The rest of my residents, however, are diagnosed with Schizophrenia, which we never hear anything about, let alone receive extra payment for. The extra care a resident who has been diagnosed with the condition, requires is endless. “How local authorities or those who set the standard fees can possibly say that a home where

service users with just older people’s needs should be paid the same basic rate as that of a home full of service users with schizophrenia is beyond me. “ There is also no recognition for the carers and homes that care for these people.” Angela added that inspectors from the CQC and local authority should also take the condition into account when visiting care homes as residents with the condition often refuse to ‘bathe, dress appropriately, have their hair done, have a shave or their finger nails cut’. “Although this has never happened to me, it should not be seen as poor quality care or low standards,” she said. “A lot of service users who have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia do not require mental health nursing homes or private hospitals, but what they do need is extra input from a highly skilled and qualified team and from a manager who is a RMN. “Without this team, their needs would not be met and, by us being able to cater for such needs, we are in turn preventing hospital readmissions to psychiatric units due to mental health relapse and are, therefore, saving the Government money on NHS beds.”

Film set in care home grounds

Celebrity chef James Martin made a special appearance at a ‘Healthy Eating, Happy Living’ event at a recently refurbished Hertfordshire-based care home. Residents and guests at Monread Lodge were treated to a live cookery demonstration by the chef, who is currently hitting the headlines for his project to improve the quality of food served in hospitals. The event also marked the opening of the home’s new 16-bed Knebworth Court dementia unit and demonstrated its focus on healthy eating with a visit from the top celebrity chef.

THE grounds and exterior of a Dunfermline care home were transformed into a movie set that is due to hit the television screens next summer. Guardian Care’s Leys Park site was renamed Cowdengelly Poor House for the day for the film ‘Happy Lands’, which is set in 1926, about the time of the miners’ strike. Activities co-ordinator Lynn Ratcliffe, who liaised with the film crew and cast on the day, said: “Although none of the residents were directly involved they were very excited to see what was going on outside in the grounds of their home. “Six of the cast members – three women and three children came into the home when they were on a break to inform them what was going on and also to pose for photographs. The residents said their costumes were very realistic and are now looking forward to seeing the film later in the year when special screenings are held at the local theatre.”

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Owner makes a splash and raises thousands By Dominic Musgrave THE owner of a Gosport nursing home helped raise thousands of pounds by getting to a music festival on the Isle of Wight in an unconventional way. Unlike the other thousands of people who travelled to Bestival by ferry, Andrew Hudson, who runs Alverstoke House with his mother, was part of a team of 12 who took part in the annual Swim to Bestival challenge. He raised more than £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support after his friend Ben Gelblun, who also took part in last year’s event, asked him to join him this year. Andrew said: “It is quite a difficult event to get a place on because the coastguard only allow 12 people to go at one time with it being a shipping lane. “We trained in the sea nearby for three months but were worried that it wasn’t going to happen in the lead up to the big day because it was really windy. With it being a swim to the music festival it isn’t something that can just be rearranged. “Thankfully when we got to the start line the coastguard said they were ok for us to go if the kayakers that accompanied across were happy because it is difficult for them to paddle against the wind. “There was a force four blowing, which made it tough, and unfortunately I was

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Andrew Hudson with Ben Gelblun slowed down quite a bit by the kayaker guiding me capsizing with a mile to go.” To celebrate reaching the finish line, Andrew and his fellow swimmers were presented with special medals on the stage at Bestival, and also received back stage passes. He added: “We weren’t sure how long it was going to take. Last year when the water was still it took around an hour and a half, so we were pleased that we did it in two hours 15 because we thought with the wind it could take more like three hours.

“I changed my swimming stroke completely in the three months of training leading up to the event, and it definitely helped because when I got out of the water at the end I still felt I could have swam back again. “We got a great reception when we received our medals because the sun was shining so everybody was in a good mood. “I’m already looking at my next challenge because I have definitely got the bug. Swimming The Channel would be a natural goal but we will have to see.”

Group Deputy Editor: Judith Halkerston Tel: 01226 734458 Database enquiries to: 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. You can now follow us on Twitter at caringuk

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CQC inspectors found resident trapped in lift

Regency Manor butler Sarah Graham helps a visitor out of the Rolls Royce.

Residents travel in vintage style ... RESIDENTS at a care facility in Poole have welcomed the newest member of the team in the shape of a gold vintage Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. The car offers the residents at Regency Manor the opportunity for a first class trip out to the local shops or the nearby coast. Manager June Reynolds said: “The Shadow is a great asset and really makes you feel important when you’re inside. The attention received and the feedback from residents and

their families is very positive. “Many of the residents like the idea that they can book the car for a day trip or use it as an optional extra. It is very appealing to them and offers more independence when getting out and about.” The car is always driven by the home’s butler Sarah Graham, and is also available to anyone who may be interested in viewing Regency Manor but may not be able to get their own transport.

THREE formal warnings have been made to the owner of a specialist dementia care home in Warrington where inspectors found a resident trapped in a lift. Adi Oseni, owner and registered provider of services at Hollybush, has been warned by the CQC that she must make urgent improvements to standards of care or face further action after another resident was not given prescribed medicines for up to a period of five days. An unannounced visit in July formed part of a responsive review of compliance to see if improvements had been made since the last inspection in May, where concerns about the home were first discovered. Inspectors found that Adi was failing to meet the essential standards of quality and safety, in particular, proper steps were not being taken to ensure each person was protected against the risks of receiving care or treatment that was inappropriate or unsafe. They also discovered that she was not making suitable arrangements to ensure residents were safeguarded against the risk of abuse, with other concerns surrounding the unsafe use

and management of medicines. Sue McMillan, regional director of CQC in the North West, said: “The care being provided at this care home is nowhere near good enough and hasn’t been for some considerable time. The law says that these are the standards that everyone should be able to expect. Registered providers have a duty to ensure they are compliant. This warning sends a clear and public message that Mrs Oseni needs to address these issues as a matter of urgency or face serious consequences. “Over the last few months, CQC has been working with Warrington borough council’s adult social care team. The CQC and the council have had concerns about the home for several months and have been working in partnership with the home owner and management team to address issues during that time. “Clearly there are systemic problems at the home. When CQC inspectors discovered that service users had not been given prescribed medicines for up to a period of five days, one has to question the organisation and quality of care being administered.

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MP Adrian Sanders serves tea to the residents

MP Adrian shadows care home staff A TORBAY MP took time out of Parliament’s summer recess to shadow care home staff at a Torquay nursing home. Liberal Democrat Adrian Sanders was invited by Robert Gray, owner of three care homes, to experience the care offered at Torre House, the first new nursing home to be registered in the area for nearly 20 years. During his visit to the 28-bed nursing home he accompanied staff on a range of duties, including taking cups of tea to residents and helping deliver a word association game, which is a favourite activity among residents. Manager Alison Homer, who has dual responsibility for the home and Mount Olivet Nursing Home, another facility run by GrayAreas Ltd, said: “Adrian originally came to the home when it was officially opened, and showed an interest in seeing what we were all about and how we have built the home up and the logistics behind it. “The residents were excited that someone of his importance came

along to see them, and during his time here he really got involved. “I think it was a really worthwhile experience for him as there is so much negative media about the industry and, by spending time here, we hope he will be able to spread the word about the good work we do here. “Robert was also able to explain to him some of the difficulties the industry is facing. We think it would be beneficial for other home owners to showcase their work if they get the opportunity.” Commenting on his experience at the home, Adrian said: “It was interesting to see how the home provides care for residents with such varied emotional and physical needs and how in-tune the carers and nurses are with the residents.” Have you got a story for Caring UK? Get in touch by emailing dm@whpl.net or write to healthcare editor Dominic Musgrave at 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S70 2AS.

Conference to include debate on sustainable funding system ANDREW Dilnot will deliver the keynote speech at ECCA’s annual conference in November. This will act as the springboard for an informed debate on a fair and sustainable system for funding quality social care. Other prominent figures who have agreed to speak include Peter Hay, president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services and William Laing,

founder and director of Laing and Buisson. The day’s programme also includes a series of interactive seminar sessions and an exhibition of products and services from suppliers and organisations. The conference, entitled ‘Quality. What’s it worth?’, takes place at the Bloomsbury Holiday Inn, London, on Wednesday, November 16.

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State-of-the-art home opens in Edinburgh By Christina Eccles THE latest state-of-the-art care home commissioned by the City of Edinburgh Council has officially opened its doors. Inch View has been built on the site of the former Kings Inch school and is the fourth new facility to be commissioned by the council since 2007. The residents, who came from the former Balmwell House and Craigour care homes, moved in earlier in the year. Pupils from neighbouring Liberton Primary School recited a poem and sung songs at the opening ceremony. They were also involved in naming the new home after researching the history of the area. Councillor Norman Work, vice convener for health and social care, said: “These state-of-the-art homes were designed in consultation with service users and the design sets the standard for other local authorities to follow. “I have been very impressed with the facilities when at the home, which will give residents the opportunity to stay in

accommodation which is more suitable to their needs, and gives them a better standard of living. “Improvement of our care homes is part of our Live Well in Later Life 10 year plan for older people’s services, which aims to provide a wide range of quality care and support, to meet older people’s needs both in their own homes and in carefully designed homes.” Inch View has many unique features, including infra red sensors in bedrooms to detect if residents get up unexpectedly during the night, rainwater harvested on the roof and then used to heat the home, and its own library and hairdressing room. Residents were also consulted at length over the design of the new building which is sub-divided into smaller group living units of 15 bedrooms, each with their own sitting and dining areas. Bedrooms all have en-suite shower rooms and are of a good size – above the national standards for care homes. Construction work is expected to start at a site in Drumbrae later in the year.

Cath Hughes celebrates her retirement at the age of 80 with Hollybank's owner Jacqueline Jones RGN

Caring Cath retires at 80 A MEMBER of staff at a North Wales care home has retired at the age of 80. Cath Hughes joined Hollybank in Deeside in December 2000 at the age of 69 as a care assistant, and has worked hard over the past 11 years to enrich the lives of the residents and day care clients. Despite being older than many of the home's 24 residents, Cath has worked three afternoons per week, and the home’s owner/ manager Jacqueline Jones said she was a hugely popular member of the team who will be greatly missed by all. She added: “Cath has an outstanding work ethic, she has been a dedicated and highly valued member of our team throughout her years with us. “Her genuine caring nature and desire to help others made her very popular with residents, their families and all her colleagues. “On duty Cath was non-stop, never standing still, always finding jobs to be getting on with. We will miss her greatly as a colleague and a friend.” As a surprise, colleagues, friends and residents gathered for a party

thrown in Cath’s honour, and she was presented with gifts, flowers and cards to mark her service and dedication. Cath, whose brother Tony also works at Hollybank as a gardener, decided to take on the role after her husband died of cancer. She said: “After my husband died I decided I wanted to do something to help others, so I started working in a Nightingale House Hospice charity shop. “Then I moved to Hollybank and it was the best thing I ever did. It was lovely to be able to help the residents and enjoy the satisfaction I got from knowing they were happy. I just wish I had done the job when I was younger. I have made many friends at Hollybank who I will never forget.” Cath, who has two granddaughters and a great-granddaughter, plans to spend her spare time seeing more of her family. Caring UK is on the lookout for the oldest member of staff working at a care home. If someone at your home is older than Cath, email Dominic Musgrave at dm@whpl.net or telephone 01226 734407.

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Home hosts music festival By Dominic Musgrave THE compulsory wet weather failed to dampen the spirits of those who attended a Northern Ireland care home’s inaugural music festival. ‘Breffstock’, at Breffni Lodge in East Belfast, was the brainchild of senior care assistant Odette Mason after she was watching television coverage of Glastonbury with the home’s cook David Waugh and residents. Odette said: “David said it would be great to go, which got me thinking that there was no reason why we couldn’t bring the festival to us. It went from there really. “We chatted with the residents, got their views and ideas. They all had memories of the music and fashion of 1960s so we sent out invites and made posters, and the dress code was Retro, Hippy, Flower Power. “We arranged for our usual entertainers who range from traditional folk/ Irish music to more modern music, with residents dancing and singing into the night. They came along at various times in the day, with intervals for our BBQ. Residents, their families, staff with their families and neighbours

Nell Wallace and Bill Johnston enjoy the music turned out suitably dressed, and past residents also came for the day. Luckily we had a small marquee, but even the rain couldn't take away the pleasure the day provided.” The 22-bed home, which is one of six owned by Mark Uprichard, hosts a variety of events throughout the

year, and the next they are planning is loosely based on the Antiques Roadshow/ Cash in the Attic. Odette added: “A local collector is going to come in and talk about antiques and appraise and talk about residents’ items. “Quality of care to each individual is of utmost importance at the

home, and all our activities have our core values in mind, but just because people come to live in a home we like to show that life doesn’t end. “We are by no means God's waiting room.” Last year the home held a threeday virtual cruise.

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Residents at a North West care home are using the latest in technology after the owners secured a grant. Dominic Musgrave found out more.

Market stall helps promote care home SPREADING the word is of vital importance to Holme Manor’s owners, and they have found a novel way of doing this. Staff man a stall at the local market each Thursday and Saturday, which offers information about the services on offer and about key associations. Paula added: “We often take the iPads to show people what we get up to at the home, and for them to have a go on themselves. “It breaks down the barriers and people are now used to us being there and come over for a chat or a bit of advice. It is also a simple way of getting our services out there. “We also loan four of them to the local hospice each week for the people living there to use.”

iPads bring new lease of life HOLME Manor in Rossendale now boasts seven iPads for daily use after the owner’s application for a £16,000 Get Connected grant was successful. A further seven were also purchased for people to use in their own homes as Ryan and Ann Godwin also run their own homecare service for a separate office. Activities co-ordinator Paula Bond said they have made a difference to the 31 residents living at the care home, with those who are unable to leave their bedrooms even able to use them. “To some people living here the iPads have brought a new lease of life,” she added. “If we asked most of the residents to sit at a computer most of them would simply refuse, but this way they can sit for five minutes and go on to do something else. “Some residents use them more than others, but all of them have their own individual photo albums on that I have but together with the help of their families. “One resident, Marian, has loved it from day one. She lived in Africa and has a fascinating background. She often sits for hours with her own music on, which varies from Beethoven to Rod Stewart and Simple

A resident using an iPad Minds, and either looks at her photos or plays games such as scrabble either against the computer or a member of staff. “They are so flexible and the photos can also be a useful tool to calm a resident who has dementia down if they are unsure of where they are or who they are.” Paula, who has been on several training courses at the Apple store in Manchester to learn other ways the equipment can be used, also visits several local schools with them during term time. She added: “I work with the children in year six and, whatever they are

learning, I then bring back to the home to show the residents via the iPads. “Before they broke up for the summer one of the schools was studying Egypt, which led to discussions in the home about where the residents and staff had visited. “We plotted this on to a map and there wasn’t a place that someone hadn’t visited. “The children also come into the home and get to know the residents, which makes them aware of conditions such as dementia. We talk to them so they aren’t frightened when they come here.”

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Emily Routledge as a human cannonball

‘Cannonball’ Emily opts for caring career By Dominic Musgrave A 26-YEAR-OLD woman has swapped working in a stunt show for working for a Cornwall homecare agency. For seven years Emily Routledge was a human cannonball where she was catapulted 60ft in the air on a daily basis. In January this year, however, she made a dramatic career change when she joined Home Instead in Truro and, after working for just six months as a caregiver for the company, Emily has been promoted to the position of recruitment and retention officer. Her new role that includes creating job adverts, interviewing, recruiting and training new staff as well as managing the wellbeing of the current team. Despite the radical change of pace, Emily told Caring UK she is confident she has found her true calling and is thrilled with the rewarding nature of the job. “I enjoyed my old job but there was a lot of travelling involved and when my husband and I got married, we decided it was time to settle down,” added Emily. “Caring has always been something that appealed to me and I love the way our caregivers build such strong relationships with clients as this makes the service particularly rewarding to deliver. “As an important part of my job is recruitment, I am often telling others that we welcome applicants from a variety of backgrounds – and I am very much proof of this.” Emily still finds time to get a boost of adrenaline as she rows in a local surf boat team and also rides a Honda CBR 600 motorbike.

Emily Routledge She added: “I was shot out of a cannon over 400 times and set on fire nearly every night for seven years. “As much as I love my new career, I still have to make time for a little adrenaline kick every now and again.” Home Instead services include personal care such as assistance with bathing, dressing, eating and medications; home help covering all aspects of day-to-day housework, shopping, meal preparation and household duties plus companionship services that can involve everything from escorting clients to appointments through to simple conversation and good company.

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Bright times for residents RESIDENTS at two newly-acquired Wath-upon-Dearne care homes are enjoying brighter surroundings thanks to attractive new refurbishments. Sandygate and The Beeches have replaced the lighting in their communal areas as well as floor coverings and bedroom furniture after being purchased by MHA in May. Several bedrooms have also been redecorated and each home has a new bath and assisted lifting hoists for residents’ benefit. The Beeches is gaining two bigger dining rooms and Sandygate has a new pharmacy. “The new decorations and furnishings are much brighter and better co-ordinated,” said services manager Zoe McCallum. “The refurbished bedrooms look more like hotel rooms now. The new lighting system simulates natural light, so it’s bright and uplifting. The lights are also sensitive to movement, so they will come on if someone is in the area, and dim if nobody is around. “The Beeches’ new dining rooms are about one-and-a-half times bigger, so there’s much more space for residents and their dining experience is really enhanced. The new baths and hoists will help too – the previous baths were of a standard design which can be difficult for older people to use.”

Activities play a vital role in daily life at a Huddersfield care home that recently celebrated its first birthday. Dominic Musgrave found out more.

How Shaz keeps residents busy with activities ... WHEN Shaz Parveen’s children left home to continue their studies she wondered how she was going to fill her days. Several care jobs later, both voluntary and latterly full time, and she now works at Croftlands Care Home in Kirkburton – a purposebuilt site for 55 beds which is registered for various categories. She added: “I come from a Muslim background and don’t have many qualifications, partly because my parents didn’t believe in them. “After being a full-time mum raising three children I started by doing some voluntary work. After nine months working as a care assistant at another care home I applied for the activities job, but didn’t think I had any chance of getting it. “I did and took over from a lady who had done it for four years. I immediately cleared her stuff out of the office because I wanted to do things my way, and thankfully it

went from success to success. “After three months working there I was given a Golden Merit award by the company for my work. I moved here because it is closer to where I live, and haven’t looked back.” Shaz devises her own quizzes that she researches on the internet, as well as doing traditional activities with the residents such as baking, knitting, flower arranging and making handmade stationery. She added: “Coming from my background I learned how to cook, sew and knit from a young age, and the rest that we do here I just pick up as I go along. “It’s amazing what conversations can come up when you start doing something such as a group baking session. Residents love to talk about their lives and reminisce about when they use to do these things.” Shaz also gears her activities to

annual festival and events throughout the year, with the home decorated with traditional items for Remembrance Day, Christmas, Easter and Halloween. She added: “My job doesn’t finish when I leave here in the afternoon, and I have to constantly think of how I can get the residents involved in something without struggling because generally they say no when they are asked to join in. If they don’t understand I tell them to come and have a coffee and see what is going on. “More often than not they will then give it a go and really enjoy themselves. “It is amazing how these things happen. I always have options for them because some days I will put things down and they will not want to do what I have planned, but will want to do something else instead.” A summer fete at the home recently raised more than £600 for the residents’ fund.

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Residents grow their own ... RESIDENTS at a Berkshire care home celebrated National Allotment Week by eating the fresh vegetables they had planted and grown in the grounds. When the balconies of Care UK’s Clara Court in Maidenhead were redeveloped this year, some greenfingered gardening enthusiasts at the home approached manager Leigh Reid and suggested they use the planters to develop a vegetable patch in the garden. Many of the 76 residents remember the post-war days when allotments were the main source of vegetables for many families, and they have given the staff great tips for growing vegetables the organic way. Leigh said: “We have several former painters and decorators who have stripped and re-varnished the planters, and farmers and gardeners who have given invaluable advice on what to cultivate and how. They are having a wonderful time. The gardening not only keeps them fit and active but also stimulates their minds. “This works particularly well as we are a specialist dementia home. They love taking their relatives out to see what they have been doing and it encourages them to reminisce.” The residents have planted and tended potatoes, runner beans, courgettes and tomatoes. Some produce is being used in the home’s kitchen and the rest has been sold to staff and relatives.

Southern Cross crisis prompts call for ‘radical shake-up’ UNION leaders have called for a "radical shake-up" of the care sector to prevent another Southern Cross crisis, following the latest Government update on the group’s closure. Unison said tough new regulations were needed to restore public confidence following the collapse of the care home operator, which led to concerns about the future of its 31,000 elderly residents. Helga Pile, national officer for social services, said: “It’s time for this damaging privatisation experiment to be abandoned. The care and security of the elderly is just too important to leave to the cut and thrust world of the private sector. The problems that led to the closure of Southern Cross still exist today. “The Government needs to act now to put a restriction on profits, introduce tougher quality standards and ensure investment in better training and pay for staff. The best way to deliver quality and consistent care is by rebuilding publicly-owned, publicly-run and accountable care

Helga Pile homes. “The Government claim that none of Southern Cross's elderly residents will be made homeless or left without care, but if people have to be moved between homes, this has a devastating effect on their health. We cannot afford to allow elderly people to be left at the mercy of market volatility.” Her comments follow a statement

by health minister Paul Burstow which said the transfer of Southern Cross homes to other operators will be done in such a way as to have ‘minimal impact’ on residents and staff. “Until a new operator is registered and takes over the services in any care home, Southern Cross will continue with full responsibility for continuity of care,” it added. The minister said 330 care homes should be transferred by the end of the month, with the remaining 400 transferred at the end of October. He added: “Within the next few weeks we expect the complete picture to emerge for each care home, and it will be clear who is the landlord and who is the new operator. “Notwithstanding the good progress that has been made, it is important that I restate the Government's commitment that whatever the outcome, no one statesupported or self-funded will find themselves homeless or without care."

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Call for homes to offer services to community By Dominic Musgrave

Resident Val Jones with an owl.

Flying visit for residents A PARLIAMENT of owls swooped in to visit a group of retirement housing residents from Hanover Walk in Storrington. Almost 40 residents watched Ben the eagle owl and barn owl Lotty perform an array of acrobatics, which included swooping and flying techniques.

The visit was arranged by estate manager Val Harber, who contacted Observing Wildlife Life in Society after hearing rave reviews. She said: “Whether it is domestic pets or wildlife, residents have always enjoyed the therapeutic benefits animals can bring to their living environment.”

CARE homes should open up their doors and offer their services to the local community, it has been claimed. Speaking at a conference for owners in Derby, NCA chief executive Sheila Scott suggested a number of ways in which care homes can make themselves more attractive. She said: “I know of one home that recently received a grant to pay for computer equipment and the internet for its residents. “They have put together a leaflet that has been delivered to the over 60s in the local area asking them if they too would also like to learn. They don’t charge for the service but ask for a donation for the tea and cakes. “Offering lunches is also a good idea because where will the old man who lives on his own but has his Sunday dinner at a care home want to move when he can no longer look after himself. “And why shouldn’t a care home be the local equipment supplier. When

my father wanted to take my late mother outside a few years ago he phoned the local NHS and asked them for a wheelchair. “They told him it would be several weeks so he got in touch with the local care home and they let him borrow one straight away.” Sheila added that offering a hair service or respite beds is another way of inviting the community in, but it is about finding the right idea that suits an individual care home. She added: “There are lots of opportunities out there, and if anybody challenges you as to what you are doing then I would advise that you get in touch with an association and ask for help. “There is no reason why you cannot and people across the country are doing it. “As long as you can prove that you have the space and the staff, then there shouldn’t be a problem.” Do you offer services to the local community at your care home? Let Dominic Musgrave know by ringing 01226 734407 or email dm@whpl.net

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CARINGNEWS The 15 nursing and care homes in the STEP scheme are: Abbeyfield Care Home, Ilkley. Beanlands Nursing Home, Glusburn Croft House Care Home, Eastburn Currergate Nursing Home, Steeton Elderthorpe Care Home, Shipley Hilbro Nursing Home, Baildon Langdale Care Home, Bierley Norman Lodge Care Home, Odsal Norwood House Nursing Home, Keighley Park View Care Home, Heaton Regency Court Care Home, Keighley Springbank Care Home, Silsden Threshfield Court Care Centre, Skipton Troutbeck Care Home, Ilkley Well Springs Nursing Home, Heaton

Beanlands nursing home manager Sue Cutts and her deputy Janet Frye with Fiona Throp, senior nurse for older people at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust and Anne Young, healthcare support worker at Airedale Hospital.

‘Pack a bag’ pilot being extended A PILOT project to encourage care homes to pack a bag for residents who may be admitted to a West Yorkshire hospital in an emergency has proved so successful it is being expanded. The trial scheme, which has been running for several months between Beanlands Nursing Home in Glusburn and Airedale Hospital, has improved the dignity and care of older patients by making sure they have a change of clothes for discharge. In the next phase Beanlands will be one of 15 nursing and care homes from across Bradford, Airedale and Craven that will be using the new Seamless Transfer of Every Person scheme. Fiona Throp, senior nurse for older people at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: “When someone falls or suffers a heart attack, the main priority is to get them emergency medical help as quickly as possible. If these emergencies are at night, patients are often taken to hospital in their nightwear. “Once they have been treated in hospital, patients may be able to go back to the care home in a few days but still have only their nightwear to travel in. “Even if blankets are provided, people often feel uncomfortable travelling in their pyjamas or nightdresses so this is where some extra clothing can make all the difference.” When the hospital looked at where patients were being admitted from, a number were from local care homes. They often did not have a relative

close by who could call in and visit them in hospital with a change of clothes. Airedale Hospital and Beanlands Nursing Home staff worked together on the project to develop a better emergency admissions process and trialled a number of different circumstances. They found that the best way to provide extra clothes was to have male and female bags ready packed in the care home with appropriate clothing and toiletries. Personal items for individual patients were then added at the last minute and the bag was given to the ambulance crew to take to hospital with the patient. In addition, the project looked at how the written information between the care home and hospital could be improved. An information ‘passport’ was developed, where most information about the patient can be completed in advance and any additional information can be added in an emergency, if needed. A luggage label was created which helps identify the bag and ensures the information passport gets to hospital – it fits inside the luggage label. It also has reminder on the back of what to pack. Beanlands manager Sue Cutts added: “The STEP scheme makes a real difference to our older vulnerable patients as well as our staff. “The information passport has also improved overall communication, not just between ourselves and the hospital but also between the hospital and our residents.”

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Therapy can strike the right note with dementia patients By Christina Eccles A CARE group’s musical therapist has told an international conference how the therapy can benefit people with dementia. Ming Hung Hsu, who works for the MHA, addressed the World Federation of Music Therapy’s triannual conference, held this summer in Seoul, Korea. He told the conference about a resident at one of the charity’s homes with dementia, who featured as the case study of his Masters degree dissertation, for which he earned a distinction. His therapy prompted a dramatic change in the resident, who is in her 80s and would experience extreme anxiety and distress in her day-to-day life. Ming, a pianist, guitarist and singer, said: “I explained the importance of continually evaluating work and the effect it has on the individual during therapy. “MHA takes a very person-centred approach to its care, and when giving

Ming with a resident music therapy, it is important to assess how it is affecting the person throughout, to find the best way of improving their well-being. “You cannot use the same approach

for everybody. “I also spoke about the importance of movement and how music therapy can motivate people who might otherwise be very still and passive to

become more active and engaged.” Ming has seen the effects of his therapy through dementia care mapping, a data collection method often used in occupational therapy, which involves documenting a person’s behaviour over a period of observation. Recipients of music therapy do not need any musical training or experience, but are invited to play percussion instruments such as xylophones, drums and tambourines, to the accompaniment of the therapist. Ming added: “Some people with advanced dementia might be able to play an instrument or sing, even if they can’t speak. “And with those whose dementia is not so advanced, the music can stimulate them. Residents may have problems that mean they cannot use words, but in music therapy they play and you can see what they are thinking.” Ming is based at MHA’s Weston and Queensway nursing and dementia care home in Stafford.

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Rugby player touches down for fun day A WIDNES Vikings rugby league player helped staff at a care home in the town raise hundreds of pounds at a summer fun day. Approximately 100 people turned out for the seasidethemed event at Millbrow Care Home, with guest of honour Tangi Ropati raising £120 by auctioning off a signed rugby ball. Activities included a DJ playing seaside themed songs, a tin can alley, tombola, face painting, coconut shy, hook the clown’s nose and limbo dancing, as well as traditional races for children including the egg and spoon. Stalls selling cards and gifts and lavender helped to boost the total raised on the day to £250, which will go towards the home’s social fund to pay for activities.

Home brings the seaside to Nelson ... Widnes rugby player Tangi Ropati with Millbrow manager Lorraine Disley

Rain fails to dampen spirits ... RESIDENTS and staff at a care village near Colchester did not let an unwelcome rainstorm deter them from celebrating their first fete. The family-run, private Silversprings CSL made sure the show did go on with all the stalls, refreshments and games being hastily set up in doors. Activities manager Tina Dilley said all the proceeds from the day will go to the Alzheimer’s Society. She added: “We all had our fingers crossed for a lovely afternoon so that all our visitors could appreciate our beautiful gardens but, unfortunately the timing couldn’t have been worse, and in

Activities manager Tina Dilley mans the stall of handmade goods made by some of the residents of Silversprings. tombola there were handmade the end we had to have our first fete crafts on display and for sale, as inside – thankfully our interior is well as books, cake and traditional nice and spacious.” sweet stalls and face painting. As well as a chance to win on the

A LANCASHIRE care home provided its residents and local community with a traditional British day out at the seaside without them having to travel anywhere. The 70-bed Nelson Manor Care Centre celebrated its first anniversary with a trip down memory lane to the golden days of British seaside resorts, with games, food and displays for fun and fundraising. Manager Janine Kelly said: “It was a wonderful way to celebrate our anniversary at the same time as giving residents the chance for a “stay-at-home” holiday. “For some of our residents suffering from dementia, nostalgia and fun like this can be great therapy. “We had a team of local people lending us games, photographs, souvenirs or any other items – plus making traditional stalls and games. It was also a good chance for local families to get a day by the seaside without leaving Nelson too.” The event was finished off by an evening of ‘end of the pier’ entertainment, which was free for the over 60s. All money raised on the day was shared between the residents’ fund and the Horse and Pony Protection Association, who provided a four-legged special guest for the event.

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The next phase of the transformation of a Nottingham care home that was close to being shut down before its current manager took over has been completed. Dominic Musgrave reports.

Home blossoms under new manager A PETS corner complete with aviary, guinea pigs, rabbits and chickens, now adorns the grounds of Kingfisher Court in Clifton, with a potting shed and cafe due for completion next spring. Residents also have the opportunity to grow their own vegetables and flowers in the ‘growing boat’. Manager Nora Gazeley, pictured right, told Caring UK a lot of the work was undertaken by the home’s handyman Nigel Walker, while the probation service built and painted memorial benches for those residents who have passed away over the last year. She added: “The residents chose what they wanted and, after starting off quite small, it has now escalated thanks to a lot of hard work. “We have put patio doors in from the lounge they are able to get outside and, in future we plan to use the area for teas dances and for other entertainment. “Some residents who rarely leave their rooms have enjoyed watching the area come to life and enjoyed sitting outside talking about what was going on with Nigel, and helping out where they could.” The home plans to open up the ‘The Cup and Saucer’ coffee shop

to the wider community once it is complete to try and remove the stigma of care homes. Internally, an unused space that has in the past been a staff area and office, has been developed into a kitchen for the residents, while a reminiscence room has also been created. Nora, who estimates the cost of the development at approximately £10,000, added: “Previously our activities co-ordinator used to do baking with the residents in the dining room, which was popular but not ideal. “The new kitchen enables them to not only bake but to do other tasks such as the washing up or using the washing machine. Simple tasks which keep them active. “Residents enjoy baking in the morning and then going down there in the afternoon to eat what they have made at a tea party in the afternoon. “The reminiscence area is full of things the residents told us should be in there, and Nigel spent hours at the weekend trawling through markets for things. It is used quite a lot for group sessions and also by residents when they are entertaining family.”

Residents enrol on college courses KINGFISHER Court residents are proving that you are never too old to learn after the home teamed up with a local college. New College Nottingham host various courses for the residents during term time, and in the past residents have studied gardening, IT, keep fit and nail and beauty. Nora added: “We got in touch with the college after they sent out a leaflet last year advertising their

courses. They told us if the residents registered as students they can open up courses with them and do block bookings out here. “It wouldn’t be easy to get some residents to the college so this has worked out perfectly for us. I have never known people so willing to learn, and we hope some residents will be able to do a cookery course because some have never cooked before.”

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CARINGNEWS Star of The Great British Menu Richard Bainbridge opened the summer fete at a Norwich care home. The head chef at the exclusive Morston Hall, owned by Galton Blackiston, was the special guest at the annual event at Grenville Court in Horsford, which raised more than £820 for the residents’ fund. Richard (left) is pictured with visitors to the fete.

Novel experience for home CHESHIRE cats and mad hatters turned out in force for an Alice in Wonderland-themed summer fete at a Norfolk care home. Staff at Overbury House in Wroxham dressed up as characters from the 1865 Lewis Carroll novel, raising £295 for the residents’ fund. Activities co-ordinator Emma Franklin said: “All our expenses were paid for so we held a tombola and raffle to raise some extra cash for the residents’ fund, which goes

towards activities at the home. “There were various stalls and a barbecue with entertainment provided by staff, who were dressed as different characters. “We transformed the garden with lots of visual aids and the residents helped by making games to play with their families.” Lowestoft-based mobile pet company Zootastic also brought along a selection of spiders, snakes, rabbits, guinea pigs, cockroaches, geckos and owls.

Party time A MAIDSTONE care home held a summer garden party for residents and the local community. The event at Greensted residential home, part of The Abbeyfield Kent Society, was attended by mayor Brian Mortimer, and featured entertainment by local musician James Wyld. In addition to summer garden games and a BBQ, a raffle, tombola and a bric-a-brac stall raised £275 for the home. Residents will decide how they would like the money to be spent at their next meeting.

Residents at a Market Drayton care home will soon be enjoying more trips out and musical activities after the annual summer fete raised more than £1,000. The event at Hinstock Manor included a bouncy castle, various stalls, a tombola and bric-a-brac, while the residents made damson jam and cakes and the kitchen staff cup cakes to sell. Councillor Tony Forrester, deputy mayor of Newport, cuts the ribbon to open the party with staff and residents.

The 1940s and Landgirls was the theme for a summer fete at a West Sussex care home. Staff at Windsor Rest Home in Worthing dressed up as landgirls, while the residents dressed in traditional attire. The occasion also celebrated resident Lilian Winder’s 106th birthday, while funds raised will be shared between The Smiles Foundation and improvements to the residents’ garden.

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Television presenter Pam to chair conference TELEVISION presenter Pam Rhodes will chair a conference to help health and social care professionals better serve the spiritual needs of older people. ‘Caring for the Whole Person: Honouring the Spiritual in the Care of Older People’ will take place at the Paragon Hotel, Birmingham on November 9, and includes addresses from three keynote speakers and two workshop sessions. Speakers include the CQC’s head

of equality Nigel Thompson, community theologian and lecturer Ann Morisy and Rev Dr Keith Albans, group director – chaplaincy and spirituality for MHA. The workshops will cover a variety of topics including dementia, reminiscence and endof-life care. The event is part of MHA’s biennial chaplains’ conference, and is aimed at bringing it to a broader audience.

Green-fingered residents judged at annual show By Christina Eccles MORE than 100 residents from care homes across Wiltshire showed off the fruits of their labour at a group’s annual flower and vegetable show. The event, organised by the Orders of St John Care Trust, took place at Buckland Court in Amesbury and, as part of the celebrations, individual residents and homes were presented with awards for their produce and gardens, judged by ladies from the local Women’s Institute and Damien Newman from the charity Thrive. “This is our second fruit and vegetable show in Wiltshire and the competition is certainly at a higher level than last year," said Karen Johnson, activity and volunteers manager for the Trust. “We have been impressed by the high standard and diversity of creative ideas and planting seen across some of our homes.” Stratford Court in Salisbury took home the coveted best garden and

grounds award after the judges deemed it had improved on the success of last year’s competition, with the creation of an orchard, raised beds and vegetable plots, and with many residents taking an active interest in the development of the grounds. The garden also contains a steam train, which helps to act as a reminiscence tool for residents with dementia. The most unusual theme prize went to the garden at Fives Court in Mere, who have created a nursery rhyme themed display, complete with colourful rainbows and popular characters. Other winners: Certificate of achievement – Sidney Herrington (Stratford Court resident); front garden – Willowcroft, Salisbury; rear garden – St Wilfrid’s Priory, Arundel; hanging basket – Athelstan House, Malmesbury; vegetable patch or mini allotment – Woodmead, Warminster; day care theme – Southfield, Stroud.

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Recruitment agencies ‘letting sector down’ RECRUITMENT agencies are letting the care sector down, it has been claimed. Consultant Victoria Marsden, who has worked in the industry for 10 years, says the intense focus on profit and targets within recruitment agencies, coupled with their high staff turnover, could ultimately lead to a drop in the standard of care in both residential homes and domiciliary services. She told Caring UK that the tough, target driven environment within agencies is leading to compromises being made when trying to source quality candidates within the care sector. Victoria added: “In recent years, the economic downturn has inevitably forced graduates to look for jobs that are perhaps away from where they see their long-term careers. “Agencies have targeted the graduates as they are hungry to earn money, but invest very little in training or support once they’re in place. “The upshot of this are consultants who have not got the sector experience to source and put forward the correct candidates and who, without the right support, move on to other jobs quickly.”

However, she is keen to stress that graduates should not be discouraged from entering the recruitment business, but that agencies should offer long term careers through better graduate programmes. Since launching Health and Social Care Jobs in January this year, Victoria has seen instances where major agencies have put forward eight candidates to her one. She is certain that if these companies weren’t driven based on statistics and targets, far fewer candidates would be put forward, leaving consultants with more time to make sure the right person is sourced. “High standards of care can only be delivered if suitable people are employed,” Victoria added. “I think that in a sector as sensitive as care provision it is important to remember that we have a moral obligation to ensure we are delivering the right service. “As a recruitment business, just because we are a step removed from the actual operations doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t take that obligation any less seriously.”

Home extension

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Major programme

will increase home occupancy Page 27

£8m village

expansion given the go-ahead Page 30

Care group in Southern Cross move Victoria Marsden

“All the bedrooms are high spec with flat screen televisions, internet access and telephones to add to our communal rooms. “Our other homes are smaller units and we have a reputation for providing top quality care. “We thought the way forward was to buy a bigger home and strengthen our position as a local provider since we believe the new Ashcroft will provide the ultimate accommodation and luxurious environment for residents needing care in the town of Sutton-inAshfield.” Bank House Care Homes currently operates two other homes in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Bank House and Bluebell Lodge, and Fernleaf in Mansfield.

In this issue: brings 20 new jobs to Ilkeston

£3.7million home brings 40 new jobs A NEW £3.7m care home which is creating 40 jobs has opened in Sutton-in-Ashfield. Bank House Care Homes has bought the three-storey property containing 53 en-suite bedrooms from the LNT Group. The state-of-the-art ‘Ashcroft’ will provide care and nursing care for elderly people including those with dementia after the group received funding from Yorkshire Bank’s Financial Solutions Centre in Nottingham for its fourth home. Kris Sooriah, director at Bank House Care Homes, said the new facility took a year to build. He added: “This is a luxurious home which continues our ethos of providing accommodation where older people are valued.

Caring UK Commerce section brings you all the latest property, business and training news every month.

Kris and Patricia Sooriah with Sue Carter from Yorkshire Bank outside the Ashcroft care home in Sutton-inAshfield.

MARIA Mallaband Care Group has negotiated the re-assignment of more than 30 Southern Cross leases and secured working capital funding to assist the transition. Negotiations are also ongoing with other Southern Cross landlords who have yet to decide on a new operator for their assets. These acquisitions will largely be managed under a sister brand, Countrywide Care Homes Ltd, which has more of a focus on the public funded market. Philip Burgan, chairman and CEO, said: “Maria Mallaband has become synonymous with excellent care delivered in a first class environment. While these acquisitions operate mainly in the mainstream public funded sector, we intend to stamp the same core values of the brand on them. It will take time to bring the operations and property assets up to our standards, but my management team is already working on our integration programme.”

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Provider expands services A LANCASHIRE based specialist care provider has acquired two new facilities to expand its services in Kent and into the East Midlands. Optima Care, which already manages three facilities in Lancaster, Preston and Kent, has purchased Family Care Homes, a specialist care provider with eight locations in Kent, following a multi-million pound finance deal with Santander. In addition to the acquisition of Family Care Homes, the group, which employs more than 400 staff around the country, has also secured new facilities in the East

Midlands region to further enhance its provision of mental health rehabilitation services. Director Eddie Coombes said the purchases start a five-year growth plan for the firm, which has been established since 2004. Optima Care Limited commenced trading in 2003 with the purchase of The Chilterns in Westgate-on-Sea, Kent. This was followed by the acquisition of Burrowbeck Grange in Lancaster and Brookhaven in Preston in 2005. In 2007, construction of The Hamptons in Preston commenced and the facility opened in 2008.

Tax reclaims for care home owners... CAPITAL allowances are among the most valuable and least exploited methods of reducing property owners’ income tax or corporation tax liabilities. Capital allowances arise from capital expenditure on purchasing or constructing a new property along with extensions and refurbishments. We comprehensively survey the property which allows us to identify any qualifying items that, for numerous reasons, have previously not been claimed. Don’t delay as the government are considering closing this opportunity for retrospective claims. Call now for your free appraisal. Have you made a Vat reclaim? If you were operating between 1993 and 2002 call now to start making your claim. We will quickly identify the validity of a claim without obligation. If it does not proceed there will be no fee. Enquiries: Telephone 01246 293011 or visit www.salmon-business.com

Home extension brings 20 new jobs to Ilkeston By Dominic Musgrave AN EXTENSION to a care home on the outskirts of Ilkeston has created 20 new jobs, its owners have said. The development at Bramble Lodge in West Hallam will increase the number of beds from 41 to 65, with more than 100 potential employees attending an open day at the home. The facility has been owned by husband and wife Nigel and Sue Cumberland since 1997, and Sue said the extension will enable the home to be able to offer much needed respite care. She added: “The open day proved to be a great way of opening up the home to the community, and for us to chat with people who may have considered a role in care. “We had more than 100 turn up on the day and interviewed 65 for the roles. “The new development has also enabled us to put existing staff through appropriate training and give them opportunities to develop their career further. “We have a low staff turnover and even have several members who

started when we took over all those years ago.” As well as the new bedrooms, the new development at the former children’s home will also include a library and gym, while the grounds will also be landscaped for residents’ use. Energy efficient lights and solar panels have also been included. Sue added: “We had a few problems obtaining planning permission as a few locals were concerned that we were going to have to cut down a few trees. “However, when we chopped them down several of them were rotten anyway, and we have got round the problem with a re-planting plan. “We also have planning permission in place to build five independent living units in the next couple of years. Santander have been happy to support us because we are a threestar home with no requirements or recommendations, and we run with 100 per cent occupancy.” A time capsule has been embedded in a wall during the building work that features items from the architects, builders, existing residents and staff.

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Goldendale directors Carl Scarlett, Lee Stringfellow and Rita Scarlett with Steve Shaw from RBS.

Major programme will increase home occupancy WORK has almost been completed on a major refurbishment programme at a Tunstall care home that once complete will increase its occupancy by half. The work at Goldendale is due to be completed in November, with the new rooms available from the following month. The home will increase in size from 19 beds in 17 rooms to 28 single en-suites. The growth is being achieved by utilising previously unused space on the ground floor of the building, and residents will have the use of a new communal areas, complete with a bar, and a quiet lounge with specialist lighting for those with dementia. The room will also double up as a fitness area and will have a Wii Fit. New offices, a commercial kitchen and laundry are also being created. Director Lee Stringfellow, who has run the home with Rita and Carl Scarlett for the past 18 months, told Caring UK the extension is to meet demand in the area. He added: “We have been pretty

much full since taking over, and currently have a waiting list of 10, so demand is definitely there for a new development like this “The home was purpose built in 1995 and this is the first major refurbishment since this time. It had such a poor reputation when we took over that it was suggested we change the name, but hard work has enabled us to build us up to where we are today. “We have used innovative designs that we feel maximise the space and potential available to us and, barring a few minor issues regarding parking, the local planning department were very supportive of us.” RBS has provided a loan of £430,000 to both fund the refurbishment and restructure of some existing debt, with a large proportion of it spent on a new sprinkler system. Are you planning a refurbishment programme or currently undertaking on at your care home? Let Dominic Musgrave know by emailing dm@whpl.net or telephone 01226 734407.

New care facility suites prove ideal for couples A NEW care facility that boasts one and two bedroom care suites has opened its doors in Bristol. Purpose-built Horfield Lodge has 25 places for nursing care, 29 for dementia and 19 of the innovative one and two bedroom suites which include kitchenettes and enable couples to remain together, even if their care needs differ, or if one partner has no care needs at all. Deputy general manager David Armstrong said: “The care suites are so good for residents. There are some individuals who love having the extra space, and they are wonderful for couples. “Older couples often find one person has to go to a care home while the other stays in the family home, and that can be very difficult.

“With a care suite, you can maintain your relationship and privacy. We look after the care, and you can enjoy your quality time with each other.” The residents, who are moving in at a rate of four a week, have been enjoying activities such as learning origami, craft sessions and art appreciation discussions held informally by one resident who is a former teacher. David added: “We are very lucky to have about 40 volunteers. They are spending a lot of one-to-one time with residents, which is very important. “We arrange group activities, which several individuals enjoy, but some people prefer to just come down and chat.”

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DC Care announces new division DC CARE has launched a new division – Vertere. The experienced specialist confidential healthcare business transfer agents says Vertere will ensure clients receive the same high level of service in selling a closed or vacant home and achieve the best possible sale prices. Speaking about the launch, director Anita Allen said: “With vacant care home properties the requirement for confidentiality when marketing is largely irrelevant, and we can increase the exposure within the trade press and nationally on the web when advertising these units. “In Vertere we are liaising with private vendors and professionals seeking to sell empty units, often following a business failure, many of these properties which have the benefit of C2 planning generate a good level of interest from specialist operators, residential developers and site finders.”

£8m village expansion given the go-ahead MORE than 40 new jobs will be created after an £8m expansion at a North East retirement village were given the green light. The development at Middleton Hall between Yarm and Darlington will see the creation of 35 independent living bungalows, a dementia facility for up to 28 residents, a new cafe, bar and shop and the re-building of a lodge /gatehouse at the main entrance. Managing director Jeremy Walford told Caring UK the application follows two years of research, plus a consultation exercise with residents, relatives, staff and the local parish council. He added: “The development is the backbone of our five year business plan to establish Middleton Hall as the best retirement village in the UK.

“The independent living bungalows will provide the highest standard of accommodation and services in the UK for older people. “The dementia community will be built and run in an entirely different way from traditional care homes, where residents live in small households and participate in normal domestic life.” The privately-owned company was founded in 1900. Work to transform it from a nursing home to the North’s first full retirement village began 100 years later. It currently provides for independent living, assisted living, residential care and nursing care through 49 apartments, 32 bedsitting rooms and 20 specialist rooms, backed up by a range of facilities from a swimming pool, spa and gym

to library, bowling green and restaurant. The new bungalows will mark a first for Darlington council as they will be zero carbon homes, making the application the first Code Six (Code for Sustainable Homes) properties in the town. Jeremy added that they are also believed to be the first zero carbon retirement homes in the UK. “The new café, bar and shop will expand the popular central village facilities for residents and guests and also include a farm shop selling produce grown at Middleton Hall and local organic farms,” he commented. “The new lodge at the entrance will also improve site security and management by having a member of staff living on site with overall responsibility for the grounds and buildings.”

Extension plans for historic care home A £550,000 extension to a historic hall-turned-care home will provide facilities for extra residents and create more jobs, its owners have said. Bupa Care Homes is to create a purpose-built extension to its Burley Hall Nursing Home, increasing the number of bedrooms by seven, to 49. The development, which gained planning permission in January, will also create three local jobs. Building work is expected to be completed in December next year. Regional director Richard Jackson said: “We recognised the need to meet the growing demand for quality nursing care in the local area, so this extension will enable us to offer a much-needed service

to the community. “Burley Hall Nursing Home already has an excellent reputation for providing first-rate care, so we had no hesitation in investing in this popular and much-loved home. “The extension will provide six new en-suite bedrooms, with patio doors leading out into a secure and secluded walled garden, creating a courtyard effect.” The modernised Grade II-listed hall was built in 1832, and is the third building to occupy the site, once home to Burley’s medieval lords of the manor. Bupa says the planned extension mirrors the design and style of an existing annexe at the hall, which is set in extensive grounds.

It is currently seeking planning permission from Bradford Council

for non-material amendments to the scheme.

Eddie’s knowledge and expertise second to none EMANUEL A Dribble, better known in the business transfer market as Eddie Dribble, has been in the care home transfer agency business for around 40 years. His extensive knowledge and expertise is second to none in negotiating a satisfactory conclusion for many long standing clients In 1972 he founded and subsequently developed the care home division, of then the national transfer agents Luxton and Lowe Limited. Since that time he has personally travelled the length and breadth of the British Isles inspecting and evaluating every type of care home. No matter what size and what cost he has negotiated sales to a range of buyers, which include large companies and single private individuals. He has established a reputation throughout the industry which provides a truly personal service, always remaining fully confidential. Luxton and Lowe Limited were taken over in 1991 by a large London property agent. At this time to keep the personal service and confidentiality, which was also his strict code of practice, Eddie decided he needed to form his own private transfer agency to continue to provide a high quality individualistic service. Since this time he has continued to serve the industry with his own brand of personal and confidential negotiations and keep his commission rates at a competitive level. To this day care homes of every size and description and in every location are continuously required for a list of carefully vetted applicants. Enquiries: Telephone 020 8942 0852.

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Turnaround as Paul looks for second home By Dominic Musgrave A NORTH West businessman who claimed he would never own a care home is in the market for a second after transforming the fortunes of his first. Paul Swithenbank, who has owned The Co-Operative Buying Company, an organisation which allows small and medium sized care homes access to purchasing discounts normally offered only to large corporate providers, for 15 years, always said he had no interest in owning a care home. But that changed when he visited several care homes for the business and decided he could do better, which led to the purchase of the 12-bed The Willows in Marton Moss. Paul, who named the care company Olivia Josephine Care Limited after his late mother to remind him of the high standards he wants to achieve, said: “When I bought the home there were problems. “Among the main issues, there were no care plans in place or any structure to the home regarding medication, which led to some tough decisions having to be made. “We had a staff meeting and I soon realised that some of them were only here for themselves

and not for the residents. “Three walked out straight away and four more were encouraged to leave over the next few months. Since then we have built it up again brick by brick.” The home is currently undergoing a major refurbishment, and has proved so popular that work on a three-bed extension is set to begin shortly. Paul, who also spent 10 years in the Army, which is where he says he gets his discipline from, added: “This has been the biggest challenge I have ever had, and even being shot at doesn’t come close to what I have had to do here. “I always have my mother in mind whenever I am changing a room and, because she had such high standards, I think if it is good enough for her it is good enough for anybody. “I think what we will end up with here could be used as a model for another home in future, and I would be interested in one within a 50-80 mile radius from here. “Something that has approximately 30 beds with potential to build on would do me. I’m not interested in anything bigger because filling them would be so difficult.”

Party time for Edith on her 105th birthday A RESIDENT at The Willows recently received a telegram from the Queen and a card from Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Iain Duncan Smith to mark her 105th birthday. Edith Springer celebrated her big day with a party complete with entertainment and three cakes. Paul added: “We are one big family here and it was great to be able to mark Edith’s special day.

What we lack in facilities compared to some of the big care homes we make up with by having a heart, and hopefully that comes across when people visit. “When we recruit staff they have to fit in, and like home life there are some days when the residents get on and others they may argue, but it is soon forgotten and they are friends again.”

Building contract awarded BARCHESTER Healthcare has appointed GB Building Solutions to build a new £4.5m care home in Guildford, Surrey. The new three-storey facility will consist of 78 bedrooms, and will include a dementia unit, large communal areas on each floor and a café and hair salon. Planning for the development was

obtained by Campmoss Properties’ in-house team after winning a design competition and many years of negotiation with Guildford borough council. GB Building Solutions has a long running relationship with Barchester, having constructed several facilities together. Work is expected to be completed in June 2012.

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sponsors safe handling of medication

Last of group’s homes installs system THE last of Alpha Care Homes’ 13 facilities has gone live with the revolutionary Pharmacy Plus Proactive Care System (PCS). The group has become the first in the UK to implement it across all its homes after Bromson Hill Care Home in Ashorne was the last to have it installed last month. The Proactive Care System (PCS) was created by Pharmacy Plus as an IT solution for medicines management in care homes and is the first such system of its kind in the world. Caroline Wood operations director/ head of care services at Alpha, said each of the group’s homes, which are primarily in the West Midlands, is individual, with the core focus on making them a ‘home from home’ for service users. She added: “At Alpha we are always looking at ways to improve standards in all areas of care and the rollout of the PCS system has proved very valuable to us. “We trialed the PCS system at one of our 13 homes and have been so impressed with the system it has been rolled out across the whole group, as we identified the PCS system as being a user friendly tool

that could support our care homes to maintain safe administration practices.” Pharmacy Plus developed the PCS system to ensure each drug is administered to the right care home resident, at the right time, with the right dose. It ensures the appropriate administration of each drug by prompting staff on which residents are due their drugs and when, then helps guarantee residents safety by preventing any incorrect administration of drugs, using a unique barcode validation process. The system comprises a handheld device, similar to a mobile phone, that is simple to use for staff and very robust. The system increases both residents’ safety and provides peace of mind for staff. It is now recognised as truly revolutionary technology, has already won a number of prestigious healthcare awards and is unique to Pharmacy Plus. Caroline added: “We are proud to be the first care home group to implement the PCS system across all its homes and believe this tool has significant benefits for our staff and residents.”

Carer Kay Foster trials the new system.

Use the five R’s for safe handling of medicines THERE are many aspects to the safe handling of medicines, although it translates mainly to the five R’s: Right – Patient, Medicine, Form, Route and Time. Right patient: Photographs attached to Medication Administration Records charts or patient profiles are intended to ensure that medicines are administered to the right person. In addition, carers should ensure that patient details on medication labels match those on the MAR chart. Right medicine: Although most prescribed medicines are well tolerated, carers should recognise instances where this may not be the case. For example, where a patient prescribed a new medicine experiences severe symptoms such as shortness of breath or severe rashes, this may indicate an allergic reaction that warrants stopping the medicine and alerting the prescriber immediately.

Right form: There may be instances where a prescribed form may not be the right one. For example, where a patient prescribed tablets develops dysphalgia (swallowing difficulty), tablets may not be the right form and may therefore need to be changed to a more suitable form such as liquids. Right route: Similarly, a patient unable to take medicines orally may wish to be changed to a different route for example the rectal or topical routes. Right time: Some medicines may need to be given at specific times for maximum effectiveness. For example, some antibiotics such as penicillin are intended to be given on an empty stomach before meal times. If given with food then absorption is interrupted, preventing the medicine from working optimally. In the case of antibiotics, the infection may become recurrent and/ or prolonged.

Email your stories to dm@whpl.net

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sponsors safe handling of medication

Training helps refresh staff LEADING pharmacy medication suppliers can provide training on various aspects of medication handling, storage and administration. This can be useful in refreshing care staff with the latest systems and guidelines. Some pharmacies will provide this free and some will charge per session or per head. It’s always important to check what the training will cover and whether it will be done by a pharmacist or other professional. Other important factors worth checking are is the training session accredited by a governing body or institute or will the session be done in the care home or at a training centre? Midlands based pharmacy Yakub Chemist provides training both in the care home and off site. Mohammed Sheikh said: “Training at the pharmacy site gives the carers the chance to see the operations and meet the pharmacy staff face to face. Also using a dedicated training room with a projector in comparison to training in the care home dining room means staff are much more focused. “Our training is followed by an exam paper which has a minimum pass rate that is then marked and sent back to the staff member to review.” Yakub Chemist also provides infec-

tion control training. “Our aim and objective is to raise awareness of infection issues in care and nursing homes,” added Mohammed. “Our main concern in regards with medication and infection is the very real concern associated with dangers of infections such as MRSA, FLUE and C-Diff. “These are an invaluable grounding in the general safeguarding of medication and infection control that can be employed to reduce the risks posed by the infection. “These and other minor infections that can be controlled are emphasised by the trainer to all our candidates during training sessions.” The firm also conducts medication audits twice a year of the homes it serves to ensure its service meets CQC Standards 13 Outcome 9 regarding medication. Mohammed added: “Our personalised compliance audit tool is designed to ensure that our team of staff is readily available to assist care homes so they are fully prepared to meet CQC Outcome and Standards. “Auditing care home medication aims to ensure that staff fully understand what is required of them. We provide a clear system tailored to meet our clients’ serviced needs.”

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CARINGNEWS

Bar opens at Positive outlook to support care home RESIDENTS at a Bromsgrove care home are now able to relax with a bottle of beer and a game of pool after a pub area was officially opened. Staff from Sanctuary Care’s Breme facility travelled to County Durham to collect the bar, which they found on an internet auction site, and have since spent their spare time hunting around local second-hand furniture shops for traditional pub-style stools and tables. There is also a dartboard available for residents to use, as well as a pool table which was donated by one of the residents. Home manager Karen Keen said: “Breme Arms will be a wonderful addition to our facilities here at Breme. Our residents have already had the opportunity to make use of the pub and they absolutely love being able to pop in, sit down and have a natter over a drink. “Many of our residents used to enjoy an evening at the pub and there is no reason that they shouldn’t still be able to do it now, it’s a great conversation starter and brings back a lot of happy memories.” Have you opened a new room at your care home, or in the process of developing one? Let Dominic Musgrave know by emailing dm@whpl.net or telephone 01226 734407.

those who need care most

By Jo Guy WITH so much negativity surrounding the social care industry and a continuous stream of news stories hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons, it can almost be forgiven that people jump on the bandwagon to criticise the sector. We all read the media and understand what it feels like to constantly defend an industry that we are passionate about. There are many dedicated workers within social care who make a huge difference and we see daily the positive impact that these individuals have on others, not just those that receive direct care but also their family and friends too; the problem is that the good work and stories that we have to share are often lost amongst the bad. Don’t get me wrong, I know that we need to uncover failings and address poor practices shown across all areas of social care, but I would like to champion a change in attitude, to make the social care sector a positive industry to work in and engage with. We are responsible for the care of

sector of committed and compassionate carers with a positive outlook. As a non executive director of the United Kingdom Home Care Association and the owner of a care business, I am very passionate about the future of this industry. We need to consider where we will be in years to come and focus on developing a positive infrastructure to support an aging population reliant on an industry to deliver care and support.

Jo Guy those who need it the most and rather than dwelling on the bad news we need to be getting out there and start shouting about the great and good that our industry has to offer. Service users require our help and assistance to live a happier, simpler and more independent life. These people are often living in isolated and difficult circumstances and to add to that they often deal with an industry of ‘workers’ who are surrounded by negativity rather than a

I for one will champion change and hope that others within the sector will stand up to be counted. Without change we can expect to see more of the same and many will feel that they are supporting an ever depleting sector with too little or no support on offer. I personally think we would all do well to think about the poem of an ageless 95 year old from time to time. Jo is the managing director of the AJ Group and has been appointed to the Skills for Care national high level steering group to address the sustainability of the care ambassador initiatives across the UK.

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Warning notice prompts counter-complaint A WILTSHIRE care home operator is to make a counter-complaint to the commission about the lack of balance in an inspector’s findings following a recent visit. In its latest inspection of Ridgeway House in Wootton Bassett, which looks after the elderly and those with dementia, inspectors found that it was failing to plan and deliver effective care for its residents, some of whom have dementia. A spokeswoman for the Orders of St John Care Trust, who own the home and 19 others in the county, said: “We are extremely disappointed that

Ian Biggs (CQC regional director in the South West) has decided to issue a warning notice regarding Ridgeway House, despite strong representations made by us concerning some fundamental errors and a lack of balance in his inspector’s report. “Ridgeway House has a justified reputation in the local community for delivering high quality care and has a dedicated and loyal staff group, who are committed to the well-being of all the home’s residents. “We recognise that the CQC has an important and difficult job as the lead regulator for health and social

Residents Evelyn Bear, David Loss and Susan Schlaen meet the farm animals

Farm moo-ves in for visit A MENAGERIE of farm animals stopped by at a Hampstead care home to the delight of more than 30 residents, their families and friends. The travelling farm, run by Bedfordshire-based organisation Ark Farm, brought a host of creatures to Jewish Care’s Sidney Corob House, including a Shetland pony, two

sheep, piglets and a hutch of guinea pigs. Anthea Jones, manager of the care home, said: “Many of our residents are interested in nature and the environment. I heard about the farm and saw a fantastic opportunity for our residents to see these animals up close.”

Carers meet council chairman CHAIRMAN for Torbay council Derek Mills and his consort Judith Mills met with some of the region’s carers at an event organised by a Torquay care home. Held at Torre House, the event celebrated and acknowledged the role of local carers and their contribution to the community. The afternoon included live music and a pub style quiz with prizes.

Manager Alison Homer said: “Being in the care industry, we appreciate the sterling job carers do in the community and we were happy to offer an afternoons respite in recognition of this. “Carers are often the unsung heroes in the community and we hope the event helped to acknowledge the hard work they do and we hope to hold similar events in the future.”

care. However, our shared objective of continuously improving standards of care will not be furthered unless the CQC abides by its own guidelines on warning notices by acting proportionately, consistently and with a focus on the actual outcomes for people using the service. “We shall, therefore, be making a formal complaint to the CQC regarding its handling of this matter.” The recent inspection followed a review in January, and Ian said providers ‘have a duty to ensure they are compliant’. He added: “Ridgeway House has

not been following all the relevant guidance about meeting people’s care and treatment and this has meant that frail people could be put at risk. “This warning sends a clear and public message that the Orders of St John Care Trust needs to address this issue as a matter of urgency or face serious consequences. “Our inspectors will return to Ridgeway House in the near future and if we find that it is not making the required progress we won’t hesitate to use our legal powers to protect the people who live there.”

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Cafe events give food for thought PEOPLE with dementia in Sandwell were invited to tuck into foods which research suggests can have a positive effect on brain health at a series of special cafes. Accord Housing Association hosted three one-off Food for Thought events throughout September as part of a £50,000 scheme to help people with dementia, their carers and families understand the benefits of a nutritious diet. Visitors enjoyed a buffet of fresh fruit, vegetables and oily fish – which research studies suggest can have a positive effect on brain health and function. Nicole Beeching, health and wellbeing manager at Accord, said: “Eating a healthy and nutritious diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables is as important for people with dementia as it is for everyone else. Some studies even suggest that eating certain foods like oily fish can protect against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also really important for people with the condition to keep active and socialise with others which these cafes provide the opportunity to do.” Accord launched the £50,000 dementia café scheme in January, in partnership with Sandwell council and a host of other organisations.

£6m Surrey facility creates over 100 jobs A NEW £6m state-of-the-art nursing and dementia facility has opened in Surrey, creating more than 100 jobs. James Arbuthnot MP cut the ribbon at Hill House in Farnham, which is owned by Woodlands and Hill Brow care group. The firm now own and run three homes in the Farnham and Fleet area, and was originally started by Alison Lee’s parents in 1976. She told Caring UK the opening is the culmination of six years of planning. “I cannot believe my dream has been turned into a reality,” added

Alison. “I’ve been thrilled by the interest shown in the home, and in just six weeks since opening we are already more than half occupied, which shows there is a very real need for the excellent care and facilities we provide. “The new home has been designed to be different to many traditional nursing homes. Being purpose designed it has many special features to make residents feel comfortable and secure. In the home there are eight different lounges and two coffee bars, a library, hair salon, activities room and cinema facilities.”

All bedrooms are large and bright with en-suite wet rooms, under floor heating, nurse call, satellite TV and entertainment access. Bedrooms are also available with ceiling hoists and are large enough for married couples to share. Throughout the home there are also 400 pieces of art for residents, while the landscaped gardens are equipped with special non-slip pathways with handrails, enabling the residents to enjoy the outside space to the full. A draw on the day raised more than £2,500 for the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice and the local Alzheimer’s café.

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Expert urges caution over online test By Dominic Musgrave A CARE home expert in West Lancashire has spoken out over a new do-it-yourself online test for dementia developed by researchers at Oxford University. Catherine Shawarby, general manager of Birch Green Care Home in Skelmersdale, part of the Springhill Care Group, had advised caution over the free 15-minute test designed to spot first signs of dementia such as mild memory slips. The Cognitive Function Test takes the visitor through three steps featuring tasks and memory tests with an instant score to measure any first signs of dementia. Catherine said: “The test is useful but those taking it should remember – this is not a diagnosis. We advise caution and would recommend that anyone worried about their memory should contact their local Memory Clinic or seek advice from their GP. “Diagnosis is crucial to then start

the necessary preventive measures and professional clinical help. “The test instructions would not be easy to understand for many people and the results did not explain what the scoring meant other than that the user performs at or above what is expected for their age. “This is fine to do for someone who is used to a computer, but for someone who is not comfortable with the system then it would probably give skewed results as much of the test is on a timer.” Birch Green Care Home provides accommodation for 74 people, with services including respite care, nursing care and care for dementia sufferers. A new £5m development at Springhill Care Group’s Accrington site will include specialist care for people suffering from dementia, mental health or learning disability, taking it from its previous 75 beds to a total of 110.

Residents take the reins RESIDENTS at a specialist dementia home near Skegness have been saddling up to take part in a new activity. A party from the 22-bed Meadows Court have taken up horse riding at a nearby riding school and stables after the idea was suggested at a residents’ meeting. Manager Marina Prescott told Caring UK the home is always looking for new ways for the residents to enjoy life. She added: “We were having a chat about what different activities we could do when one of the residents brought up the idea of horse riding. Our activities co-ordinator Emily got in touch with the owner of the centre behind the home and two of the residents went for a go. “We now send four across for an hour regularly and they spend halfan-hour in the school itself and another half-an-hour outside. Once they get their confidence up the plan is to go for a ride around the village. “None of the residents had done it before and one of them is 85. From our perspective it is £16 well spent because they go off with a spring in their step and come back fulfilled.” The home recently held a joint fair with the church next door, and Marina said she and her staff are always trying to come with new activities for the residents. “We want our residents to live their lives to the full, and we do all sorts of activities here including pampering sessions and painting to even pickling our own onions.

Resident Ivy Reeves “We take pictures of everything that we do and it all goes into our activities folder. Music mornings are always popular and we are looking into the possibility of getting a masseur to come in because all the residents love to be pampered.”

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Group and university design training tool A CARE group has joined forces with a university to develop a bespoke dementia training course designed to educate staff to better understand what the condition is and how it impacts upon the person living with it and their family. In partnership with Bournemouth University, the family-run Colten Care, which has sites in Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset, has established strong educational links to ensure that all residents living with dementia are offered the best treatment and care possible. Ian Hudson, managing director at Colten Care, said the business cares for 130 residents that live with dementia. He added: “Dementia is an area of elderly care that continues to evolve, we have witnessed numerous medical advances in recent years as A new 35-bed purpose-built specialist dementia care home has opened in Rhyl with the creation of 35 jobs. Cameron Developments, a family-run firm founded in 2001 by David Arrowsmith, has moved into the care sector for the first time after seeing considerable success in the residential construction industry. Richmond House will be managed by Rebecca Wallis and Emma Burt.

well as a change in the way families deal with the condition. Our commitment to education is paramount to the ongoing success of our dementia care provision. “Education extends further than the training given to the staff that deal directly with residents in our two specialist dementia care homes, Fernhill and The Aldbury and in the specialist unit at Kingfishers. “We are in a position to provide support and training to staff across our 17 homes to ensure that the early signs of dementia are spotted and addressed appropriately.” The company’s key designers and architects have also recently completed a course at Stirling University which has helped during the development of new dementia care specialist homes and units.

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If you would like to advertise in our home care section please contact: 01226 734479 or email rh@whpl.net

Former footballer opens franchise A FORMER professional footballer has opened a homecare business in Northampton. Defender Ray Warburton’s 20year career included spells at his hometown club Rotherham United, York City and Rushden and Diamonds, but it was at Northampton Town where he was most successful, captaining the club to the play-off finals at Wembley in successive years. He hung his boots up in 2005 to take up as a role as a property developer, and it was being made redundant that was the catalyst for him to set up his own Home Instead franchise.

Ray and Jo Warburton.

Young entrepreneur’s new business reaches final of top award By Dominic Musgrave A NORTH East entrepreneur has scooped a top award for her newly formed homecare company. Laura Whitehead, 24, has won £1,000 for her new business Whitehouse Care Services after she impressed a panel of judges in the Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards. She is now also in the running for the £10,000 Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2011 award having reached the top 40. Laura decided to create her own homecare business while on holiday in Kenya. She previously worked in a nursing home and her ultimate aim is to purchase her own in several years. “The care at the home wasn’t bad but could be better, and I thought that I want to make it better,” added Laura. “I’ve always wanted to have my own care home but realised that it was going to be expensive, and it struck me that homecare would be a way to start in the industry. “It will help me to get the finances together and all of the money I

Laura Whitehead. earn will go to bigger and better things. Maybe five or 10 years down the line I will then be in a position to purchase my own home.” Laura currently employs two people, but expects that number to rise

rapidly as the business grows across Newcastle and the surrounding area. She added: “I want carers to work for me who want to care, and if they are assigned to a person for an hour then they must spend the full hour with them, even if they have finished their jobs they were required to do. “All my life has involved care and I really think you can make a difference. I want the people we care for to look forward to their carer coming, and the last thing I want it to be is a chore. “My brother has his own business and has helped me, and my mum has also been a massive support. I have always worked for everything and never expect to have anything handed to me. This will be no different.” Laura has continued to work in her local hospital to raise the necessary funds for her new venture, as well as studying for an adult nursing diploma at Northumbria University.

Ray told Caring UK he is keen to provide high-quality at home care for elderly Northampton residents after having difficulty trying to find it for his wife Jo’s father. He added: “I was lucky enough to have a great career in football and that will always be an important part of my life. “However, being made redundant really made me evaluate what was important to me and what I wanted to achieve. It was then that I decided it was time to start my own business.” Jo will help Ray with the administration side of the business.

Monthly prize for carer Katie A CARE and support worker at Caremark’s Redcar and Cleveland branch is the latest to win the national company’s prestigious monthly award. Charles Folkes, managing director of the office, nominated Katie Hobson for the award for consistently adhering to the Caremark system, having a flexible approach to her work and helping out where emergency cover is needed, even on her day off. As well as the award, she also received a certificate and a gift voucher for Marks and Spencer. Katie, who has worked for the firm since November, has also recently been promoted to field care supervisor.

New branch to create 60 jobs CAREWATCH has opened its 152nd branch in the UK in Oxford, creating 60 jobs in the city. Branch manager Maggie Coleman has worked in the care sector for many years. She said: “I chose to work for Carewatch because the company has strong ethics. It puts the people it supports above all else and genuinely values its employees. “At the new Oxford branch we already have the beginnings of a passionate Carewatch team.”

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CARINGPRODUCT NEWS

System gets residents online BEING online has never been more important. As more of our daily activities are conducted over the web, those without access are at a disadvantage. Race Online 2012 is a Government sponsored initiative which seeks to address digital exclusion by promoting ‘a truly networked UK.’ As partners of Race Online 2012, SimplyUnite are committed to encouraging those living in residential care and supported living to get online. Through their touchscreen service ‘Gem’, residents can send and receive emails, make Skype calls and enjoy the exciting activities available on the internet. Though some may be sceptical about the role of the internet in care, the CQC ‘Excellence Awards’ cite online access as an integral part of individual choice.

Share best practice MORE than 1,500 professionals from across the care sector are set to join forces this October to collaborate and share best practice at the Care Show. Taking place at Olympia on October 11 and 12, Care Show London is a leading event for the industry, combining an important mix of expertise, CPD opportunities, and showcases of the latest products and services from over 100 suppliers. A key topic set to be discussed is the significant rise in internet use by older people and the benefits this can bring to their lives. In a move towards highlighting new and innovative areas in the operational management of care homes in the UK, the event welcomes first time exhibitor Simply Unite – a company which specialises in easy and accessible communications for older people, regardless of capability and living circumstances.

Falls system gives early warning SENSORCARE falls prevention sensors provide an early warning that alerts the carer that mobilisation is being initiated. This enables appropriate attention to be given, with the aim of preventing a fall and the subsequent injury that may occur. The systems are easy to use and provide the carer temporary respite and the confidence and freedom to carry on with their daily routines.

SensorCare falls prevention system can be used as a standalone system; relayed to a pager giving the carer more freedom; or interfaced to an existing nurse call system. Research carried out at Queen’s Medical Centre found a 45 per cent reduction in falls, reduced length of hospital stay and a reduction in the number of incidents when falls prevention sensors were used.

Toby Hart, CEO of Simply Unite, will present a session in the Best Practice & Dementia Care Theatre entitled: ‘Essential or Excellent? How can technology help you go beyond the essential standards’. This theatre also includes a session on coping with sight loss in people with dementia and one on nutrition in dementia. The ever popular MyBusiness Seminar Theatre will play host to a panel of experts and key industry stakeholders debating one of the key challenges facing the sector at the moment, The Future of Funding for Care Post Dilnot Commission. Confirmed participants include ECCA chief executive Martin Green, CQC chairman Dame Jo Williams, who was part of the Dilnot Commission and James Lloyd, director of public sector think tank the Strategic Society Centre.

Site redesigned SPECIALIST manufacturer Gainsborough Baths has redesigned its website as a result of customer feedback. The design was chosen after sophisticated and exhaustive user-testing among existing and potential customers including GPs, care providers and people with limited mobility and sight. As a direct result of the online-behavioural analysis, the site now uses colour coding, has simplified action points and edited text.

Re-accreditation success for product range HAIGH’S range of products has been successfully re-accredited for Water Regulations Advisory Scheme Approval for the next five years. The Panaway, Classic+, Incomaster and Nappymachine, used extensively throughout health and care institutions nationwide, continue to be WRAS approved. The SOLO, specifically designed for single product disposal within single bed wards and specialist units, remains covered by it's own approval. As such the machines are compliant with the water supply (water fittings) regulations 1999. WRAS Approval is highly regarded within the industry as it is granted directly by representatives of the water supply companies and is therefore accepted by the industry UK wide. Martin Price, Haigh's chief design engineer, said: “WRAS approval is mandatory for products such as ours and gives continued peace of mind to all of our customers. “WRAS is just one of a number of industry regulations that we operate within, and we are committed to demonstrating our technical compliance, commitment to quality and innovation through this and other certifications such as ISO 14001 Environmental Accreditation, as well as being Constructionline and Achilles certified.”

Eric Howard fp

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CARINGPRODUCT NEWS

Range available as part of service GIRBAU’S comprehensive range of commercial laundry equipment for care and nursing homes is now available as part of a unique new Complete Laundry Care service. Complete Laundry Care offers the latest Girbau energy efficient washers, dryers and ironers with a fixed monthly rental that includes all service and maintenance. No up front capital payment is required and you keep the capital cost of new equipment off your balance sheet. There are no call out charges or repair bills to pay, so you keep budgets tightly under control. The new Complete Laundry Care package is backed by Girbau UK’s inhouse, nationwide same day/ next day service. The company will pay a whole month’s rental if it is ever unable to attend a service call in the promised time.

Join the party Firm helps homes make catering savings DO something fun at The Care Show London this year as YTM Furniture invites you to join them in celebrating 30 years of success in the design, manufacture and innovation of care home furniture. And of course, in true YTM style, it will be an occasion to remember; their 30 years will be represented in a 1930’s style, featuring an art deco theme throughout their stand design. It is this originality and attention to detail that sets YTM apart from the rest – not only the provision of high quality, distinctive furniture but their unique ability to create an environment that people want to be part of – as seen throughout the care homes they work with. YTM provide a full turnkey solution, including furniture, seating, soft furnishings and all related accessories and decorations; including interior planning and bespoke design services for that something special.

Reliable system is easy to use AID Call wireless nurse call support over 100,000 residents nationwide. They are safe, reliable, simple to use and more affordable than you think. Easily installed - wireless technology offers greater flexibility, installation is quick and easy and only takes a day or two to get the system up and running with minimum disruption to the residents and your home. Simple to use - Aid Call systems make life simpler for the staff and

safer for the residents to use. They have been designed to be attractive, functional and reliable and robust enough to withstand the demands of a care and nursing home environment. Alarmingly affordable - with financial challenges facing the care and nursing home industry, there has never been a greater need to offer more cost effective solutions that ensure the maximum potential is squeezed out of every penny.

Lotus Professional® helps healthcare industry to stay smart in hygiene

THE Lotus Professional® brand has expanded its innovative SmartOne® range to provide a flexible, full-service solution to hygienic and practical toilet tissue dispensing for the UK healthcare sector. The SmartOne® Mini and SmartOne® Mini Double dispensers are now available as part of the SmartOne® family, offering an even wider selection of solutions to hygienic dispensing for the healthcare industry, for flexibility in both high-traffic and smaller washrooms. The SmartOne® collection boasts a single sheet dispensing function, whereby the user only takes one single sheet two-ply tissue at a time, considerably reducing paper consumption and producing superior hygiene benefits. The controlled single-sheet dispensing has proven to reduce tissue consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with standard jumbo rolls. This unique function means hospital washrooms and other healthcare facilities can benefit from reduced waste, avoiding extra costs caused by overuse, and can also help to maintain tidier washrooms. Presented in completely enclosed units, the SmartOne® dispenser range also prevents the risk of unwanted items being placed inside the unit and discourages hidden needles, providing a safer environment for patients and visitors using the facilities. The new SmartOne® Mini dispenser provides hospital managers with the flexibility to opt for a smaller dispenser that can work in more confined spaces, such as in private healthcare bedrooms or care homes. The SmartOne® Mini Double dispenser is ideal for high-traffic washrooms, due to its high capacity and twin roll design, offering up to 1240 sheets per dispenser. The versatile SmartOne® Mini Double dispenser can be fixed to the wall in a variety of positions and is available in blue or white to complement any washroom design. Both dispensers hold the same roll making restock and refill an easier process, so hospitals can benefit from the versatility of the dispensers, without losing the simplicity of a standard roll. Enquiries: Call 0114 2856666 or visit www.lotusprofessional.co.uk

ASK any care home owner if they want to save cost on their catering facilities and, of course, the answer will be a resounding “yes”. But, it’s not just about saving cost. No home can afford to compromise quality of resident care and, therefore, any service change has to represent a genuine long-term solution. There’s no quick fix, if there was – we’d all be doing it. Rising costs are the single biggest challenge facing businesses in the sector, according to the latest survey by choosemycare.com, with over half of respondents expressing real concern as to the challenges they face and citing cost as more critical than recruiting staff or changes to council contracts. That’s why leading food business, apetito is working closely to help homes achieve real savings in their catering costs. Now working with more than 120 businesses, apetito’s extensive knowledge is delivering strong results. For example, the company offers staff training and menu planning services that can help reduce the need for qualified in-house catering staff and on-site chefs. Recruitment and retention is a constant challenge for every care

home and here is a powerful potential solution that offers saving in time, energy and cost. Regular visits ensure key elements are addressed such as waste audits, full menu reviews and labour modelling to ensure the most efficient deployment of staff resources across each home. With waste one of the largest areas of concern, this alone can effectively reduce the amount of food (and money) that literally – goes down the drain. Not least, apetito knows the importance of nutrition and the power of enjoying our food. Ensuring every resident has a meal that they look forward to eating (as well as delivering the all-important nutrients means catering for a diverse range of needs and personal likes apetito has developed a delicious range of meals that offer complete solutions, whether for swallowing difficulties, special dietary needs or cultural differences. So, when it comes to streamlining efficiencies and balancing the bottom line, outsourcing of at least part of the catering operation can be an increasingly attractive and realistic option that is becoming harder for care home operators to ignore.

Conference date for Barbara BARBARA Pointon MBE has been confirmed as a speaker at a conference in Plymouth in October. The ambassador for both The Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK featured in a moving documentary charting her husband Malcolm’s 11 years with Alzheimer’s. Her talk at the conference, being held at the China Fleet Country Club on October 18 organised by Script Events in association with Visioncall, is entitled ‘Caring for Malcolm’ - A personal account of looking after a loved one. She will be sharing her advice and experience to other carers, and is a must attend event. Other speakers for both that and another regional conference being organised by Script Events at the Park Inn Hotel by Radisson at York, include

Des Kelly, CEO of the National Care Forum and UKHCA chief executive Bridget Warr. Both days have the theme ‘Focusing on Outcomes’, and a key feature of the York event on November 2 will be a presentation by Tom Owen of City University, London on the emerging findings of the My Home Life programme - a five-year project between two leading industry groups into the changes needed to ensure older people can have a better quality of life in care settings. Further conferences have now been confirmed for Southend on Sea on November 22 and Nottingham on November 30, with the line-up of speakers to be confirmed. Places can be reserved by ringing the hotline on 01226 734695 or via www.caring-uk.co.uk

Dorgard protects care home residents DORGARD wireless fire door retainers have been chosen by leading care home operator Heritage Care to allow the bedroom doors of care home residents to be legally held open while automatically releasing them should the fire alarm sound. Dorgard enables fire doors to be legally and safely kept open as it allows the door to close when the fire alarm sounds, preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Installed onto the bottom of the fire door in under five minutes, Dorgard listens for a continuous fire alarm of 65dBA or higher. Heritage Care’s Alison Pulley said: “Some of our residents sit in their bedrooms during the day, and naturally they want to keep their doors open so they don’t feel shut in. “Fitting Dorgards to their bedroom doors proved a very straightforward solution and has proved a great success as we can meet all the regulations while also meeting the wishes of our residents.” Enquiries: Telephone 0845 241 7474, email sales@firecoltd.com or visit www.firecoltd.com

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Richmond Villages makes strategic decision to contract with Powercall UK

Beaucare launch Mattress Disinfection Wipes

AWARE its luxury retirement communities could suffer powercuts from troublesome power supplies, Richmond Villages, part of the Barchester Group, has contracted with power-support company, shentongroup’s Powercall UK for provision of its unique generator callout service. Richmond Villages’ four retirement villages in Nantwich, Coventry, Northampton and Painswick, together with its facility in South Oxfordshire, are being covered by Powercall UK’s unique service. This enables the villages to maintain high levels of care to their residents when the electricity supply is cut, regardless of the length of the power outage. Facilities manager John Cashmore said: “There‘s no payback on a standby generator and asset depreciation affects a company’s bottom line. “Powercall UK’s service meets all our requirements by guaranteeing we have a generator in situ and connected up within a target time of one hour and guaranteed maximum of three hours.”

BEAUCARE® Medical Ltd has developed a mattress disinfection wipe to compliment its hygiene and janitorial range. These wipes are specifically formulated to control infection and disinfect in one solution, with healthcare professionals in mind. The wipe contains a complex mix of biocides formulated to target a broad spectrum of microorganisms found in health care environments, such as bactericidal, mycobactericidal, fungicidal, virucidal and sporistatic disinfection. The mattress disinfection wipes are ready to use and disposable, eliminating the risk of cross contamination. They are a cost saving alternative to multiple product solutions, supplied in a tub with resealable fastening for easier and quick dispensing. The wipes are also ideal for cleaning the firm’s waterproof covered pressure relief mattresses or can double up as a multi-purpose surface wipe. Beaucare has an extensive hygiene and janitorial range, providing a solution for all purposes, ensuring high levels of cleanliness and infection control. Enquiries: Call 01423 878899, email sales@beaucare.com or visit www.beaucare.com

Enquiries: Visit www.shentongroup.co.uk/powercall or telephone 0844 888 4445.

ILG name Germstar for infection control upgrade programme

DATIX is the leading supplier of patient safety software for healthcare risk management, incident reporting software and adverse events. Datix gives care home managers the information they need to build a complete picture of risk in their organisation. The firm can help to improve safety for residents and staff, while reducing administrative overheads. From small care homes to large groups, Datix plays a key part in the corporate governance of the organisation. Key features for social care include: Management dashboards which display information on the organisation’s risks in a clear, simple format. Sophisticated alerting mechanisms that give care home managers early warning of potential trouble spots. Flexible views of risk management information, allowing risks to be shown by particular care home, department or even an individual resident. Security of access to information, restricting managers to viewing only data that is relevant to their care home or area of interest. Enquiries: Contact 020 8971 1971 or email info@datix.co.uk

A super hero is born

INDEPENDENT Living Group, a leading provider of residential care for adults with learning disabilities, has begun a major programme to upgrade hand sanitation facilities at its homes. The Camberley-based company, which runs communitybased residential sites throughout south east England, says with infection control a key priority for the group is the most effective hand sanitation facilities in place at all its homes in readiness for the winter months when infections peak. ILG has called in Salisbury-based Germstar UK to install its system of ‘smart’ touchless dispensers which are designed for constant operation in ‘heavy use’ environments like care homes. The hands-free system means the dispensers themselves remain free from contamination. Users simply have to place a hand under the infrared, motion-activated dispenser to receive a measured amount of hospital-grade, non-gel rinse capable of killing 99.9 per cent of bacteria, viruses and fungus in seconds. Enquiries: For further details about the Germstar touchless dispenser telephone 01980 616800, email sales@germstar.com or visit www.germstaruk.com

PKL KitchenPods for care home sector PKL, the world’s largest supplier of temporary kitchens and catering equipment for hire, has launched its KitchenPods range into the residential care sector. Available to buy, or on a contract rental basis, KitchenPods come in a range of sizes and offer an ideal solution for any care home to maximise its revenue by converting an existing kitchen into additional bed space. Alternatively it can help homes that need to improve or refurbish any existing kitchen facilities by providing them with a complete, ready to order permanent kitchen building. Once ordered, the KitchenPod modular kitchen building can be delivered within six weeks and, despite being a permanent building, can be relocated, removed or easily extended as the needs of the care home change over time. KitchenPods are available in a wide range of finishes, including an attractive wood cladding or a customised brick slip. Enquiries: Visit www.pkl.co.uk or call 0845 8404242.

A NEW superhero has just emerged in the battle to beat the bugs – Des, the knight in shining armour and the champion of hand hygiene, has just been unveiled by schülke. Des is the standard bearer for desderman® – schülke’s rapid acting hand disinfection gel, which is ranked number one by NHS Supply Chain. Like desderman, Des is strong, but gentle. Both can be trusted to get to work quickly and effectively in the battle to prevent infection. Underneath his suit of armour there is a real life ‘Des’ and his true identity will be revealed in January 2012. Clues will be given on the schülke website and from your local schülke rep to help you guess who is hiding under his helmet. If you correctly guess who ‘Des’ is from the clues given over the next few months, real life ‘Des’ could be paying you a Valentine’s visit with chocolates and flowers. If you register to guess the true identity of Des by either emailing mail.uk@schuelke.com or registering online at www.schulke.co.uk you will receive a free limited edition Des tote bag as well as more clues. To help you on your way in guessing Des’ real identity, the first clues are: His sporting ambition is Olympic gold. He‘s number two in GB. He went to the University of Sussex. Both his parents were Olympic athletes taking part in the same sport as our mystery man. There is also a new desderman Defender game to play online where you can challenge your colleagues to outwit the bugs and see who is crowned the desderman defender champion. If that’s not enough, there’s also a Des screen saver, which is free to download. Enquiries: Telephone 0114 254 3500.

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 flat-laying WACMAT® can be used as an entrance mat, saving you hundreds of pounds in rental costs alone. Enquiries: Telephone 0800 074 3749

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Get connected... WOULD you like to be able to enhance the lives of your residents by offering them broader and more flexible access to a computer? If so, RDP’s new Simple-Smart Cart may be the perfect solution. The Simple-Smart Cart can be configured to accommodate a wide variety of computer formats, including laptops, tablets and all-in-one PCs. The rugged construction of the cart features a high-performance, impact-resistant table top and an ultra-tough cast aluminium base, so it is fully equipped to withstand the rigours of a busy working environment. All surfaces are smooth and easy to clean to assist infection control. The table top is height-adjustable for convenient use while sitting or standing. The use of premium, low-friction castors means that the Simple-Smart Cart is highly manoeuvrable and easy to transport between residents’ rooms and/or shared living areas. Enquiries: Email sales@rdpinnovations.com or telephone Alistair on 01473 722 922.

Inspector notes system’s good practice A BRISTOL care home recently underwent a local authority quality monitoring visit. The visiting inspector commented positively about the care home records. She reported that ‘the activities undertaken are recorded in daily logs and group activity sheets, both of which are stored and updated as part of the ‘CareDocs’ system, this is good practice’.

Fitness equipment

Business Solutions

If you would like to advertise in Caring UK please contact: 01226 734479 or email rh@whpl.net

Signs

Occupancy specialist

Consultants

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Alarm Systems

‘CareDocs’ is a care home management system, which was conceived and developed by two brothers that owned a care home. Their aim was to develop a system to assist them in the running of their care home. The result was a system which is regarded by many as the best care planning and care home management tool on the market.

Eric Howard inside back fp

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Shackletons fp

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