October 2018
no.264 • £4.75 incorporating
The Number One magazine for the care sector
Care homes celebrate reaching shortlist
Survey reveals large support for cameras By Dominic Musgrave
ALMOST 93 per cent of people support the use of surveillance cameras in care homes to protect vulnerable people, according to new research. The Panelbase survey of 1,050 people, carried out for Care Protect, found that 92.76 per cent of those questioned were in favour of this form of monitoring to safeguard residents. Ben Wilson, of Care Protect, said: “I think people are saying ‘enough is enough’ and something must be done to ensure that older and vulnerable people are cared for and supported in safe environments. “At a time when many care providers are suffering significant financial constraints and the media are regularly highlighting issues of abuse and poor care standards, this research demonstrates the overwhelming public support for innovative solutions. “This is demonstrably working in practice. Care homes using events only camera surveillance technology have reported a significant increase in occupancy and improvement in care standards. “The care industry can no longer bury its head in the sand about what is happening as even in the best homes, individual cases of poor care delivery can occur.”
Leading MP and former Attorney General Dominic Grieve has joined Jayne Connery, founder of the Care Campaign For The Vulnerable, to call for cameras to push for a new law that would make cameras compulsory in all areas of care homes. “Understandably, the use of cameras in a care setting is an emotive subject and causes concern about intrusion into people’s privacy,” added Ben. “However, such fears should not stifle an informed and ongoing debate about technologies that can materially improve safeguarding for vulnerable people. “By explaining how the technology can work in the interests of both service users and employees, I believe any apprehensions can be overcome. Individual privacies and liberties can be protected and respected by using intelligent cameras, which provide monitoring on an ‘events’ only basis. “In addition, any camera system could and should operate independently of providers, with third party trained health and social experts reviewing any events. “It should be recognised that even in the best homes, individual cases of serious abuse can occur and that surveillance systems not only protect service users, but also staff if they are wrongly accused of abuse.”
Embrace Technology.... Embrace Cura More time with residents Less paperwork Evidence work done Happier staff
Contact the Cura team today 020 3621 9111 ● info@cura.systems ● www.cura.systems
The National Association of Care Catering Training & Development Forum returns to the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham, from October 3-5. It will tackle key issues and challenges in care catering, including: The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative, dispelling the myths surrounding food allergies, addressing confusions within the nutritional groups, and improving the mealtime experience for residents with a dementia. Speakers will include Candice Brown (pictured above), the 2016 Great British Bake Off winner.
EXCITING plans are well underway for the second Caring UK Awards, as homes around the UK celebrate making this year’s shortlist. The awards evening will celebrate excellence throughout the industry, with trophies in over 20 categories up for grabs on the night. More than 100 entries, from homes as far afield as Tunbridge Wells, Aberdeen and Redruth, have made the finals, now progressing to the next stage of the judging process; a visit from a member of the Caring UK team to take a look around their facilities and chat to members and staff. Following the visits, comprehensive reports will be complied to then be passed on to an expert judging panel; Judges include Professor Martin Green OBE, chief executive of Care England, Nadra Ahmed OBE, executive chairman of the National Care Association, Raj Kapoor, head of training and consultancy at the Alzheimer’s Society, Care Forum Wales chair Mario Kreft MBE and Jane Murphy, professor of nutrition at Bournemouth University. Successful homes will then be presented with their awards at a glittering ceremony, taking place at The Athena in Leicester on Thursday December 6. Details on pages 16 and 17.
You know your business ... CoolCare4 is an innovative tool that helps care
CoolCare4 knows how to help you run it well.
home operators maximise revenue, manage costs and reduce time wastage. Our software is simple, intuitive and easy to use, with all the information you need at the click of a button.
Specialist Care Home Management Software
ACCURATE DATA
RESIDENT RECORDS
ENQUIRY MANAGEMENT
STAFF RECORDS
ROSTERING
TIME & ATTENDANCE
INVOICING
Get in touch. 0113 385 3853
LNTSOFTWARE.COM
HOME LEDGER
3
CARINGNEWS
Mary helps BA mark 99 years with VIP trip A 99-year-old care home resident enjoyed the surprise trip of a lifetime to help British Airways mark its 99th year in the air. Mary Parsons from Malvern in Worcestershire turns 100-years-old on January 1, 2019, the same year the airline also celebrates its centenary. British Airways ambassador, Derek Tennant, surprised Mary at her Friends of the Elderly Malvern care home and revealed that he was taking her to Belfast to see her family. Born just 51 days after the First World War ended, Mary grew up in Monaghan, 70 miles south of Belfast, yet left when she was 18-years-old to move to England and become a nurse. Given the VIP treatment by Derek and accompanied every step of the way by her carer, Ellie Bannister, Mary was met at the airport by her nephew Ciaran and his wife Noelle, and niece Margaret and her husband Anthony, before spending the weekend in Belfast. Mary said: “I can’t quite believe I went back to Belfast. I never thought I would fly again so to see Derek walk into our home and then my wonderful family at the airport was a truly lovely surprise.
www.caring-uk.co.uk Advertising
Healthcare Product Manager: Bev Green Tel: 01226 734288 Email: bg@scriptmedia.co.uk Assistant Manager: Tracy Stacey Tel: 01226 734480 Email: ts@scriptmedia.co.uk National Field Sales Executive: Lesley Millns Tel: 01226 734480 Email: lm@caring-uk.co.uk Sales and Marketing Director: Tony Barry Tel: 01226 734605 Email: tb@scriptmedia.co.uk
Publishers Script Media 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS. Email: info@caring-uk.co.uk
Editorial Group Editor: Judith Halkerston Tel: 01226 734639 jh@scriptmedia.co.uk
“It was a fantastic adventure and one I very much enjoyed, I am so grateful to British Airways for making this happen.” Ellie added: “It was absolutely amazing and I’m so glad that I could be a part of the adventure. “It was really emotional watching Mary meet her family again.
“You could just tell by their expressions that they were delighted to see her, and they just couldn’t believe that she had flown over to meet them. “They shared photos and exchanged memories, it was a beautiful day. British Airways were fantastic, and they made Mary feel incredibly special.”
At Script Media, we try to get things right but occasionally, we make mistakes. If you have a complaint about a story featured in our magazine or on our website, please, in the first instance, contact us by email: dm@scriptmedia.co.uk We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice as demanded by the Independent Press Standards Organisation. For details on the code and what to do should you be unsatisfied with the way we handle your complaint, please visit www.ipso.co.uk
Group Production Editor: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 734407 dm@scriptmedia.co.uk Studio Manager: Stewart Holt Tel: 01226 734414 sth@scriptmedia.co.uk Database enquiries to: 01226 734695 E-mail: circulation@ scriptmedia.co.uk Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publishers do not accept liability for error, printed or otherwise, that may occur. Follow us on Twitter @caringuk
4
CARINGNEWS
‘Lend a dog’ success at retirement village
Summer may be almost over but that didn’t stop residents of Barnes Lodge spending a day at the seaside, without even needing to leave their home. Sandcastles, shells, ice creams and fish and chips were just a few of the treats on offer for residents, when activity staff hosted a beach themed day of activities at the residential care home. Residents spent the morning creating canvases with shells, building sandcastles and playing beach ball, before tucking into an authentic seaside lunch of proper fish and chips, delivered directly to the door and eaten straight out of the paper, of course. Resident Sheila Ward is pictured making sandcastles.
Guinea pig gifted to care home residents
BIG-hearted neighbours who run the pet centre at a Somerset garden centre have brought smiles to the faces of residents of a Wellington dementia care home by gifting them a new guinea pig to take the place of a much-loved pet. When Richard Dempslake, activities co-ordinator at Camelot House and Lodge, explained to the animal carers at Monkton Elm Garden and Pet Centre near Taunton, how forlorn his residents were due to the passing of one of their two guinea pigs, they quickly agreed to come to the rescue and supply a replacement ‘piggie’ free of charge. Richard said: “We bought two beautiful boy guinea pigs at the beginning of May, but sadly one of them developed a nonoperable hernia and had to be put to sleep. “This left us with a large vet’s bill – not what we’d expected to spend our fund-raising money on. Also our residents missed the little chap and Ernie, the surviving guinea pig, was clearly lonely so we decided to ask Monkton Elm if they would help us out and they did. “Obviously they take a very responsible approach to animal welfare and asked us to leave Ernie with them for a short while, so they could select a suitable companion for him and be confident of their compatibility.
WHAT started out as a general request posted on Facebook to see if anyone could bring their dog into a retirement village for the residents to spend some time with has become such a success it is now a weekly arrangement. Nicola Jackson, senior village adviser at Richmond Nantwich, sent out the message and was thrilled by the response. She said: “We posted on Facebook asking if any local dog owners would be able to ‘lend’ us their dog. We have a lovely lady resident who was particularly missing the company of her dogs, and while we know this will never replace her own pets, we thought that if she could borrow a dog for an hour or so, she would be so much happier. “We had an amazing response which resulted in a number of owners getting in touch. To date, four local residents have brought their pooches in to spend time with the residents. “Their four dogs – Cookie, Amber, Murphy and Olly – now visit the village weekly when residents can sit and stroke them, walk them around the grounds or have them visit in their rooms. “Sometimes people just like to sit and pet them while chatting to their owners; or if they want a bit of time alone that is fine; it’s all very flexible.” Lynne Griffin, village manager at Richmond Nantwich, added: “It’s well known that pets can have a great impact on people’s wellbeing. Whenever the dogs are here people
Resident Pauline Sherriff enjoys a quiet moment with Amber. stop to chat, visitors come over and make a fuss, everyone smiles and a conversation starts – it’s wonderful. “Dogs really do bring everyone together, and people like to chat about the dogs they’ve owned and recount tales of their adventures.” “The Facebook post attracted some 3,000 views, with numerous comments and shares, and we still have people offering to loan us their dogs,” added Nicola. The scheme continues to be very popular, and you can keep up to date with the visits by checking out the Facebook page @RichmondNantwich.
Senior experts praise home Resident Jacky Totterdell with Ernie. “We now have a lovely new piggie called Bertie, and both the animals and the residents are very happy.” Camelot Care, the group that runs Camelot House and Lodge, is proactive in providing pets for residents because research shows the benefits include an improved sense of well-being on many levels.
THE Royal Star & Garter Homes has been praised by Health Education England chairman Sir Keith Pearson and chief nurse Prof Lisa BaylissPratt. They were “humbled” and “blown away” by the compassion and quality of person-centred care they witnessed when shown around the home recently. Keith and Lisa visited the charity, which cares for veterans and their partners who live with disabilities and dementia, to see quality care in action and discuss the new nursing associate role. They were shown around the
home by Pauline Shaw, director of care; Chrissie Heyes, home manager; Sue Tompkins, care services manager; and Reggie Ballos, interim dementia nurse manager. Pauline said: “Nursing is at its foundation, a profound act of loving compassion. We had the privilege to discuss what courage in health and social care looks, feels, sounds and smells like with inspirational leaders.” The Royal Star & Garter Homes provides learning opportunities for trainee nursing associates from St George’s University Hospital and Kingston Hospital.
SAFETY FIRST
TOUCHSAFE® PRO WIRELESS NURSE CALL SYSTEM FUTURE PROOFING YOUR PERSON CENTERED CARE SOLUTIONS
Request Assistance
Automated Triage
Personal Wellbeing
Mobile Messaging
Contact us now for a FREE quotation and product demonstration...
Call: 0800 052 3616 Web: www.aidcall.co.uk
Audit Trail
6
CARINGNEWS
Home welcomes new manager
Lesley King, Braemar Lodge gardener, with trophy (centre) celebrates the home’s latest success with (left to right) Colten Care’s head gardener Charles Hubberstey; residents Dora Williams and Beth Watson, Rosie Yeomans, a horticultural expert who writes for Gardeners’ World Magazine, and Jackie Cash, clinical lead.
Salisbury home wins garden contest for fourth time A SALISBURY care home is celebrating another blooming success after winning a garden contest for the fourth time in nine years. A decade ago there was barely a bird or insect to be seen at Colten Care’s Braemar Lodge. Now the maturing gardens at the Stratford Road home are teeming with wildlife thanks to some skilful planting and plenty of loving care from gardener Lesley King. To cap a spectacular summer which saw Braemar Lodge take part in the prestigious National Gardens Scheme for the first time, the home has seen off a challenge from 19 other Colten Care homes to win the title of Best Overall Garden. Presenting a trophy to staff and residents, Charles Hubberstey, Colten Care’s head gardener, said: “This is the fourth time Braemar Lodge has been awarded Best Overall Garden since we launched the contest in 2010. “The flourishing gardens are a focus of life and activities for residents and
staff, with the lounge doors opening up onto this peaceful sanctuary. It’s a real credit to Lesley and all her very willing helpers.” Rosie Yeomans, a horticultural expert who writes for Gardeners’ World magazine and helped judge the inter-home contest, cited the wildlifefriendly gardens as a deciding factor in choosing overall best garden. She said: “There is an abundance of wildlife thanks to beneficial planting, with bees, butterflies and insects. All sorts of birds are attracted to this lovely haven, including woodpeckers and tree creepers.” Braemar Lodge has harvested gold and even gilt accolades in the Salisbury City Council Garden Awards. Dozens of visitors also visited the award-winning gardens when it took part in the National Gardens Scheme in July, enjoying cream teas provided by the home’s chefs. Equal runners-up in this year’s Colten Care garden contest were St Catherines View in Winchester and Kingfishers in New Milton.
A NEWTON Mearns care home has strengthened its team with the appointment of a new manager, who brings over 25 years of experience in nursing care. Elaine Rankin will be responsible for the day to day management of Meallmore’s Mearns House and ensuring care is delivered to the very highest standard. She is well established in the industry, having begun her career as a nurse with the NHS in 1990, before moving into management with Care at Home in 2002. Elaine then chose to specialise in caring for the elderly, spending a number of years with another large care home provider before joining Meallmore in January this year as a project manager in Inverness. She now takes up the role of care home manager at Mearns House, where she will focus on developing staff skills and knowledge as well as continue to grow its community outreach programme by building new relationships with local schools. The care home already has links with the local rugby and golf clubs and is working with East Renfrewshire Council and Alzheimer’s Scotland. Elaine said: “I enjoy working for
Elaine Rankin Meallmore as I feel that the company values its employees and invests heavily in their career progression. Everyone has been so supportive during my time here. “I thrive on developing a care team which has the residents’ wellbeing as its priority. “It’s hugely important that life is fun for them at Mearns House and I believe our members of staff play a huge part in this. “I look forward to developing relationships with residents and their families and empowering my team members to be the best they can be.” Oakdale Care Home in Benfleet began Dementia Awareness Week by hosting a sports day for the nearby Runnymede PreSchool in the garden, watched and enjoyed by residents and the children’s families. The two forged links last October and the children visit Oakdale once a week for a few hours to enjoy some activities. Earlier this year the PreSchool lost its outdoor space so they now share the garden.
10 minutes of social interaction a day improves wellbeing in dementia care, new study finds AN e-learning programme that trains care home staff to engage in meaningful social interaction with people who have dementia improves wellbeing and has sustained benefits. People with dementia in care homes experience just two minutes of social interaction each day on average, researchers found. They also showed that out of 170 available training programmes for nursing home staff, only three are evidence-based – none of which improve quality of life. The Wellbeing and Health for people with Dementia programme trained care home staff to increase social interaction from two minutes a day to 10, combined with a programme of personalised care. It involves measures such as
talking to residents about their interests and involving them in decisions around their care. The Improving Staff Attitudes and Care for People with Dementia e-Learning (tEACH) study, conducted by the University of Exeter Medical School and King’s College London in partnership with the Social Care Institute for Excellence, was presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. The study involved 280 residents and care staff in 24 care homes over nine months. Carers took part in an e-learning programme with key modules based on the WHELD training, with or without Skype supervision. They compared outcomes to usual care.
Both treatment arms improved resident wellbeing and staff attitudes to person-centred care. The Skype supported arm continued to deliver improved resident wellbeing four months after the trial was completed. Joanne McDermid, of King’s College London, who presented the research, said: “Care home staff are under a lot of pressure – it’s a really tough job. “It’s a challenging environment for both residents living with dementia and staff. “Our programme moved care staff to see dementia through the eyes of those who are living it. We found a simple approach, delivered as e-learning, improves staff attitudes to care and residents’ wellbeing, ultimately improving lives for people
with dementia. “In a traditionally task -focussed work environment, our programme reminds us of the human side; of the full life experience of those living with dementia in care.” Professor Clive Ballard, of the University of Exeter Medical School, who led the research, added: “Just take a moment to imagine life with just two minutes of social interaction each day. To accept this is discrimination against people with dementia. “We urgently need to do better. Most care home training programmes are not evidence-based. We know our programme works over the long term, and we now know it can be delivered remotely. “We now need to roll this out to care homes.”
8
CARINGNEWS
Residents knit hats for neonatal department
Attendees at the Hampshire Care Association’s experts’ summit.
Experts hold summit to facilitate better use of digital care HAMPSHIRE Care Association, the body representing providers in the county, organised an experts’ summit to discuss how technology can be used to provide better outcomes for service users. Held at The Winchester Hotel, the private round table ‘Using digital care to provide better outcomes for service users’ was chaired by Mark Allen, head of strategic commissioning at Hampshire County Council, and was attended by key care sector figures who over the morning shared best practice advice on using digital care effectively and the challenges of adopting technology in the sector, based on their extensive subject knowledge. Throughout the event a number of important points were raised such as the role of technology given an aging population, the challenges in implementing technology across care homes including cost, healthtech more widely, and the impact that technology could have on making administration more accurate and streamlined. The points raised, under the Chatham House Rule, will form the basis of a follow up note on the use technology in care, which will be circulated to all HCA members. Samir Patel, chairman of HCA, said:
“Thank you to everyone who attended what was a highly illuminating event. It was very interesting to hear everyone’s experiences of using digital care to improve the lives of some of society’s most vulnerable people. “In a difficult funding climate, it is more important than ever that we embrace new methods of delivering the best care. “We will circulate the findings to all members and look forward to seeing technology used more widely across Hampshire in care settings as a result.” Attendees included: Mark Allen, head of strategic commissioning at Hampshire County Council and event chair; Samir Patel, chairman of HCA; Councillor Warwick Payne, cabinet member for housing and adult care, Southampton City Council; Jayne Connery, director of care campaign for the vulnerable – Care Campaign Advocacy Service; Keith Strahan, principal implementation and business change manager at the NHS Digital Social Care Programme; Jonathan Papworth, director of Person Centred Software; Andrew Geach, proprietor of Shedfield Lodge Care Home and Robin Hall, administration manager of Home of Comfort Nursing Home.
A GROUP of care home residents have spent weeks knitting hats for the neonatal department at the Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton. Every week the group meet for the Knitter Knatter session at Woodlands House with their knitting needles, yarn and a determined purpose to work together on the project. Carer Jane Edwards, who runs the knitting sessions, said: “I found patterns that the resident would like, and I sit with them and we all knit together while having a chat and a giggle. “Some of our residents may struggle with their eye sight or movement in their hands so I made the knitting task very simple and achievable. “Our residents love to participate
because it gives them a goal to know they are making a difference to little ones who need a nice warm hat, and that is an encouraging thought. “The success of this project, breeds confidence and we are knitting other items that will be given to Dorset Police, so they can distribute them to distressed children.” Over 150 hats have been creatively made with attention and care to be presented to the hospital ready for the small infants. The multi-coloured hats are lovingly hand knitted to make sure they are the correct size for premature babies. Some of the knitted hats have a section or gap to ensure any tubes or equipment can still be used without it causing an obstruction.
A Hampshire care home rated as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC celebrated diversity in the workplace by holding a national costume day. Twenty different nationalities work as one team at Colten Care’s Kingfishers home in New Milton. Eight staff donned their national costume and took part in a fashion show, with residents invited to judge their favourite. The nations represented were India, Philippines, Thailand, Mexico, China, England and Scotland. Rose Arcellana, Kingfishers’ companion team leader, said: “The judges agreed that all the costumes were stunning and it was impossible to choose one winner. We presented bottles of Prosecco to all eight participants because, as far as we’re concerned, everyone was a winner.”
Taunton care home in charity link up OAKE Meadows in Taunton is continuing its community support by partnering with a local homeless charity. The home has established a relationship with Arc, formerly Taunton Association for the Homeless, and has a series of events planned for the coming months. As part of its fundraising activities, Oake Meadows’ activities co-ordinator Louis du Toi recently joined more than 80 fundraisers for the Arc’s annual Big Sleep Out to raise money and awareness of the work the charity does. Participants of the Big Sleep Out were required to spend the night on a sleeping bag and piece of cardboard, in the car park of Taunton Football Club. The event raised £10,792.54 in total for the charity. The relationship with Arc has also benefitted the care home. Each
year, Marks & Spencer chooses local projects to get involved with and regularly chooses Arc as its Taunton-based charity. This year, the charity asked the retailer to assist Oake Meadows with its dementia-friendly garden project. M&S donated £500 for new plants and paint, and 12 of the retailer’s employees helped to transform the care home’s garden. Katrina Ball, home manager at Oake Meadows said: “Our relationship with Arc has proven to be very successful and we are proud to support a charity that does a fantastic job of helping the most vulnerable individuals in our community. “While it is important for us to have a strong community within Oake Meadows itself, it is just as important to help our local community and worthwhile causes in our area.”
10
CARINGNEWS
Operator takes part in 12-month Exeter University dementia trial By Dominic Musgrave A TECHNIQUE that helps people living with dementia to see satisfying progress in achieving everyday goals is being trialled by Sunrise Senior Living UK. The University of Exeter is leading a programme to train carers in goalorientated cognitive rehabilitation. It entails practitioners working with people living with dementia and their carers to establish goals that are most important to helping people maintain their lifestyle. These differ depending on the individual, ranging from cooking food, to remembering the names of loved ones.
“There are so many proven benefits to offering cognitive rehabilitation and therapy in dementia care and we look forward to testing out these methods and reporting the results.”
The practitioner works with the person and the carer to put in place strategies to help them achieve these goals. The technique has been found to be successful. The Multi-centre Single-blind Randomised Controlled Trial (GREAT) was a large-scale study involving 475 people across eight sites in the UK. Half of them received 10 cognitive rehabilitation sessions over three months, and the other half did not. The group receiving the therapy then took part in four ‘top-up’ sessions over six months. The study, which was funded by the National Institute for Health Research and supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, found that those who took part in the therapy demonstrated significant improvement in the areas they had identified, after both the 10-week and ‘top-up’ sessions. Family carers agreed that their performance had improved. Both participants and carers were happier with the participants’ abilities in the areas identified. Now, as a result, the Alzheimer’s Society has funded the University researchers to implement the technique by offering training to staff in NHS Trusts and social care organisations providing care to people with dementia.
Jackie Pool Sunrise Senior Living UK communities are amongst the organisations that are signed up: Sunrise of Tettenhall, Sunrise of Eastbourne, Sunrise of Chorleywood and Sunrise of Edgbaston. Jackie Pool, director of memory care at Sunrise Senior Living UK and Gracewell Healthcare, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working closely with the University of Exeter and trialling this ground-
breaking technique, which will enable residents at our Sunrise homes, who have a form of dementia, to live better, more enriched lives. “There are so many proven benefits to offering cognitive rehabilitation and therapy in dementia care and we look forward to testing out these methods and reporting the results. “This 12-month trial is just one of the many initiatives that we as an organisation are implementing, as part of our ongoing enriched memory care programme that will allow residents living with dementia to further improve quality of life and live well for longer.” The goals participants choose vary, as dementia affects people in a wide range of ways. Some participants want to find ways of staying independent, for example, by learning or re-learning how to use household appliances or mobile phones. Some want to manage daily tasks better, perhaps by developing reminders to remember their keys and purse when they go shopping. Others want to stay socially connected, and focussed on improving their ability to engage in conversation. Sometimes staying safe is important, so strategies focus on practical challenges like withdrawing money safely from a cashpoint.
Laundry in a muddle? ...You need “...the best and most cost effective
solution on the market...” Andrew Winstanley, Managing Director of Baycroft
From only £9.95 for 25 tags (inc VAT)
As recommended by
www.snappytags.co.uk
Label all your residents’ clothes in a snap! We laser-etch your required name or number onto the tags - guaranteed not to come off! * * * *
Secure & will not fade Quick to apply Discreet Re-usable
call (0344) 5611994
Wheels in motion for residents RESIDENTS and staff at a Falkirk care home are riding high after generous donations enabled them to purchase a much-anticipated cycle trishaw from Cycling Without Age Scotland. A donation from the Asda Foundation Fund allowed local community group ‘Communities Along the Carron Association’ to develop its bike rides for the elderly and those with limited mobility. Following its success, the Scottish Government provided funding for them to set up Cycling Without Age Scotland SCIO. This innovative initiative recruits and trains volunteer ‘pilots’ to ride specially designed trishaw bikes which carry two elderly passengers. Now, thanks to this established fundraising relationship, Asda has awarded the remaining funds needed for Meallmore’s Airthrey care home
to secure a trishaw of its own. Rebecca McLaughlin, manager at Airthrey, said: “The contribution from CATCA’s funding via the ASDA Foundation Fund was such a wonderful surprise – we are completely overwhelmed but really excited to have finally been able to purchase our trishaw. “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Communities Along the Carron Association, Asda, Cycling Without Age Scotland SCIO and everyone who has donated to the cause. All our staff and residents’ friends and families have worked so hard with fundraising and we really do appreciate it. “Being able to get out and about in the fresh air and socialise with the local community is so important for our residents and the trishaw allows us to do just that. Look out for us wheeling around Falkirk soon!”
11
CARINGNEWS
Poole specialist school welcomes help from its new neighbour THE team behind a forthcoming care home in Poole have shown community spirit by helped the specialist school next door prepare for the new academic year. Langside School, run by Dorset charity Diverse Abilities, has welcomed a range of support from new neighbours Colten Care as the first stage of what is set to be a longterm relationship. The family-owned care provider is due to open its Bourne View nursing and residential home in spring 2019. The provider has already contributed funding towards the school’s new sensory room for pupils to enjoy. Known as the Imaginarium, the room is a safe, flexible and multitextured space that offers a calming, relaxing environment as well as stimulating games and interaction. Staff from Colten Developments, a sister company who build all the Colten Care homes, have also been freshening up other parts of the school premises. There are brighter, more welcoming colours of paint for the main building exterior while the grounds are set to have new closeboard fencing, railings, traffic calming and a low wall flood defence. The Colten team are also
tidying up and landscaping nearby grass verges. Sohail Daniel will be the home manager of Bourne View after transferring to take up the role from the operator’s Newstone House home in Sturminster Newton. He said: “Colten Care already has links with Diverse Abilities through visits they have made to some of our other local homes and we aim to grow a long-term relationship between Bourne View and Langside as a key part of our support for the community. It’s lovely to be able to start this relationship even before our home is open. “We’ll be exploring the many areas we could work together with the school and Diverse Abilities when our residents arrive. We’d be delighted to offer Langside the use of our roof garden for example.” Bourne View will be Colten Care’s 21st home, the latest in an expanding family of nursing homes in Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Sussex. It will offer 68 en-suite bedrooms in a grand art deco-style building, many with views over the Bourne Valley Nature Reserve. Facilities include a roof-top garden with canopy café, sheltered seating, games area and bar.
Residents of Connors House made the most of the final warm days of the summer and headed to Whitstable for a day trip. Accompanied by staff and relatives, residents of the Canterbury care home boarded the coach ready for a day of nostalgia at the coastal town. Although it was rather a grey day, that didn’t dampen the residents’ spirits as they enjoyed a stroll along the promenade, taking in the fresh sea air and the sights. There was plenty for them to see – from oyster shacks to brave swimmers diving in the sea. After their stroll the residents had worked up an appetite. They headed to a nearby restaurant to tuck into the traditional seaside treat of fish and chips.
Croquet back on schedule NYNEHEAD Court’s croquet lawn has had a facelift thanks to some keen local players and the home’s gardening team. Andrew and Anne Larpent, who play at Dowlish Wake Golf Croquet Club, and Frank Sylvester and John Pugsley, who play at Wellington Croquet Club, have been advising on the croquet lawn. Head gardener Justin Cole and his team have worked hard to bring it back to peak condition, while Frank has repainted the hoops.
He and John are supporting the home in getting croquet back on the agenda for the residents and, along with Andrew and Anne, gave a croquet lesson on the new lawn. Home manager Angela Watkins said: “Croquet has been played at Nynehead Court in previous years, and thanks to Andrew, Anne, Frank and John, our residents can now enjoy this wonderful hobby once again. “We are very grateful to them for their support and generosity.”
Shine Through the Clouds with CareDocs. This year we introduced the cloud-based version of our industry-leading care management software. Here are just a few benefits of CareDocs Cloud:
Work from Anywhere.
Safe & Secure.
Save Time & Money.
Access care records
Care records are stored
Easy access to your care
wherever you are, all
safely to maintain
records means you have
you need is an internet
confidentiality in
more time to reinvest back
connection.
compliance with GDPR.
into your care setting.
Learn more about how CareDocs Cloud could assist in your care setting: 0330 056 3333 www.caredocs.co.uk enquiries@caredocs.co.uk
12
CARINGNEWS
Home commemorates Team is shortlisted Indian independence for national award RESIDENTS at a care home in Wellington, Somerset, have been waving the flags in celebration of the 71st anniversary of independent rule in India, with traditional Indian dance, costume, food and music to mark the occasion. Independence Day (August 15) – an annual national holiday in India commemorating the nation’s independence from the United Kingdom – is now a regular fixture on the cultural events calendar for Camelot House and Lodge. Activities co-ordinator Richard Dempslake said: “Our residents who are living with dementia always thoroughly enjoy it when we organise a day with an international theme. Some of them have said it’s like going on a day’s foreign holiday. “Since we are lucky enough to have staff of Indian descent at Camelot House and Lodge, we are able to provide an authentic international experience for them. Our ladies love dressing in colourful saris, and some of our gents have also entered into the spirit of the day by wearing kurta pyjama suits.“ A highlight of Camelot House and Lodge’s India day was a display of traditional Indian dancing, led by Avtar Panesar. In advance of the event residents were involved in decorating
Camelot House and Lodge in traditional Indian fashion, and on the day they enjoyed the dancing, and sampling a variety of Indian dishes specially prepared for them in-house.
TIME, investment and dedication have seen Care UK’s Colchesterbased facilities management team reach the finals of a nationwide competition to find the team who have made the greatest impact on their organisation’s performance. The team of 13 has been shortlisted for the British Institute of Facilities Management Award category for ‘Impact on Organisational Performance’ for its work with 120 care homes stretching from Aberdeen to Poole in Dorset. They are shortlisted alongside well-known big companies such as Skanska and CBRE. Kevin Orme, Care UK’s head of facilities management, said: “Care UK provides first class residential care to more than 9,000 residents and our team decided that the best way to provide the same high level of service was to create a flexible and robust facilities management function. “We believe it is paramount that we ensure each of our care homes is exactly that – a home. “The best way we can support that is to help the home managers concentrate on care while we manage the facilities.” The team has achieved this by creating an in-house property services helpdesk and facilities management team. The helpdesk is manned by Care UK colleagues during normal working hours.
The helpdesk manager and seven helpdesk colleagues act as a contact point, managing the process from the initial call from a home through to final contract invoice and payment. Outside operational hours the team is supported by CBRE, who manage the helpdesk function. Recruitment of the best people and having the right structure in place has been critical to the team’s success and on the ground support is provided by a team of four regional facilities managers. Not only has the new system led to significant efficiency savings through effective management of supplier contracts, but home managers have also been delighted with the improvement in service. Regular surveys reveal an 86 per cent overall rate of satisfaction. Kevin added: “We are over the moon at being selected as a finalist. I am incredibly proud of my team, who have achieved this through their hard work and dedication. As a facilities management expert, “I am in an enviable position; not only have I been able to support the company I work for achieve its goals, but my team’s work has tangibly increased the health and wellbeing of thousands of residents, and that it is a great feeling.” The winner will be announced at the BIFM Awards ceremony taking place on October 15 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.
13
CARINGNEWS
Care home provider partners with The Together Project HALLMARK Care Homes has joined forces with The Together Project, a not-for-profit social enterprise that runs creative activities to unite different age groups to tackle loneliness and bring joy. All of the group’s homes in England have begun to host weekly Songs & Smiles sessions for residents, 0-4 year olds and their parents from the local community. Some of the residents will also be involved in facilitating the sessions by acting as welcomers as children and parents arrive. Songs & Smiles has been designed to entertain and engage everyone from the youngest to the oldest members of the group, through singing, movement, instruments, coloured scarves and bubbles. Each Songs & Smiles session lasts approximately an hour, with the musical activity followed by refreshments and a meet and mingle with the residents. The purpose of the activity is to reduce loneliness, improve wellbeing, tackle ageism and unite local communities through joyful intergenerational activities. Head of dementia at Hallmark Care Homes, April Dobson, said: “We are delighted to partner with The Together Project as we know that intergenerational activities can help to improve the residents’ physical and emotional well-being.
Cathe Gaskell
New director appointment
“Through the partnership we will bring different generations and the local community together in our homes – this is fundamental element of our model of relationship-centred care and its great fun.” Founder of The Together Project, Louise Goulden, added: “We’re so pleased to be announcing a partnership with Hallmark Care Homes. It means we can spread
the Songs & Smiles joy to hundreds of children, parents and older people across the country, bringing everyone together for music, fun and friendship. “It’s an exciting step for The Together Project and we’re thrilled to be working with an organisation that shares our commitment to enriching the lives of people living in residential care.”
LUXURY retirement community operator LifeCare Residences has appointed Cathe Gaskell as non-executive director – clinical governance. Her appointment comes at an exciting time for the group and signals an ongoing commitment to delivering five-star quality care across the portfolio. Cathe brings more than 30 years’ experience in the care sector, with almost 20 spent working at board level. She specialises in all aspects of management within healthcare, having overseen and advised on clinical governance provision across a number of care home environments and in a range of health organisations, within both the NHS and independent sector.
LET LOOSE SAFELY WITH WEARABLE NURSE CALL
No matter where the action takes place, you’ll know if there’s a call or a fall
WANT TO TRY? CALL
0800 068 7419 Find out more at www.c-t.co.uk
14
CARINGNEWS
In the second of a two-part series, Laura Hannah, associate solicitor and regulatory law expert at national law firm Stephensons, looks at the wider issues around registration for Care Quality Commission regulated bodies.
Registered Manager – what is the criteria? WHEN determining whether a person is suitable to be registered as a manager, the CQC must consider whether the person applying is fit to be registered in accordance with Regulation 7 of the 2014 Regulations. More specifically, Regulation 7 sets out that a person is not fit to manage any regulated activity unless: (1) they are of good character; (2) they have the necessary qualifications, skills and experience to manage the carrying on of the regulated activity; and (3) they are able by reason of their health, after reasonable adjustments are made, of doing so. The purpose of this is to ensure that service users’ needs are met; this is done by ensuring that the regulated activities are managed by a suitable person. What defines ‘good character’? While it may not be possible to establish all of a person’s character traits, a registered provider is responsible for compiling all relevant and accessible information to assess whether a manager is of ‘good character’. A robust process should be followed to take into account their honesty, trustworthiness, reliability and respectfulness. This includes a consideration of the matters outlined in Schedule 4, Part 2 of the 2014 Regulations, namely whether the manager has been convicted of any offence, or whether they have been erased, removed or struck-off a health and social care regulator’s professional register such as that of the NMC, GMC or HCPC. Any matters which arise from this process should be fully investigated and any appropriate action taken. If this results in the manager retaining their position, the provider should ensure that the reasons for this decision are noted in full and in some circumstances, a provider may consider that a risk assessment may be appropriate. In this recent case, the CQC reportedly advised the whistblower that: “Individuals with a criminal conviction such as theft from an elderly person should be on the
Laura Hannah barring list as held by the Disclosure & Barring Service. We would like an opportunity to investigate this further.” However, it is reported that shortly after, the CQC stated that it was satisfied that it had carried out a detailed and rigorous investigation into the circumstances of her conviction and furthermore, that she had been open and honest with both the CQC and her employer. The CQC also stated that it had sought legal advice before proceeding with this registration decision. Some may argue that this decision was arbitrary and goes against the core aim of the CQC as an independent regulator, namely to protect and promote the well-being of vulnerable members of society. This case, in fact, makes it clear that a conviction is not an absolute bar to a person obtaining registration with the CQC and being deemed fit to manage any regulated activities. However, Andrea Sutcliffe, the current chief inspector of adult social care, has recently advised that around 37 applications are rejected by the CQC every month. In this case, she stated that the CQC had adopted a ‘rigorous approach’ and noted the circumstances surrounding this case – the conviction was spent; the offence occurred during a period of difficult personal
circumstances; and she was deeply ashamed of her actions. It was also noted that she had been open about this conviction with her employer and the CQC and her employer had provided a supportive reference pertaining to her good character. It is clear that the length of time that had passed since her conviction in 2003 had played a huge role in the CQC’s decision making process as it was some seven years prior to her first application for registration was made. During this period, there are no reports to suggest that she had received any further convictions or that there was any further evidence to suggest that any such conduct was repeated. If, however, the conviction had been more recent, or she did not have any supporting evidence from her current employer of her good character, it would be reasonable to assume that the CQC could have potentially reached a different decision. Necessary qualifications, skills and experience… When assessing a person’s skills, qualifications and experience, the CQC look into whether the proposed manager has a full and adequate understanding of the requirements of the associated legislation, particularly the Health and Social Care Act 2008; the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 [‘2014 Regulations’]; and the Care Quality Commission (Registration) Regulations 2009. They must also be able to articulate and demonstrate how they will manage the relevant regulated activities in line with this legislation. Clearly, being a manager of a registered location is not an easy task; it requires someone with a good knowledge of the care sector who is able to translate the law into practice. While the CQC’s Andrea Sutcliffe states that around 37 applications are rejected each month, these are not necessarily attributed solely to a person failing the good character assessment.
When assessing a person’s skills and experience, the CQC will also look at a person’s previous management record and the inspection history of those services they managed, including the current service they are applying for. Any inadequate or requires improvement ratings that have been awarded during their period of management or any failings that have not been suitably remedied by them in their position as manager, will often impact negatively on a registration. Issues such as these are usually addressed in the applicant’s ‘fit person’ interview, with the applicant having to justify any previous failures and provide assurances to the CQC of how they will sustain compliance at the new location moving forwards. In this recent case, the applicant had not been a manager before her first application, but it is reported that she had worked in the care industry as a carer for a few years after serving her custodial sentence. Often, the completion of an Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care or a similar course is an advantage, particularly where a person has no previous management experience, and some employers set this as a requirement for any management position. While we do not have access to the CQC’s internal thought processes and investigations, what is clear is that the CQC’s registrations are now much more stringent than they were in 2010, shortly after the CQC was established. In any event, if anything, this case demonstrates the importance of being open and honest with the CQC during the registration process, as well as any employer, where there are any circumstances which could potentially result in the refusal of a registration. Being upfront with the regulator and working collaboratively with them, providing any information pertinent to an application, is only likely to increase your chances of obtaining registration.
Residents treated to glitzy black tie event RESIDENTS at The Pavilions care home in Peterborough donned their glad rags for a glitzy black tie charity event. Organised by chef manager Colleen Essex, who works for Caterplus – part of Elior – the event raised £371 for Little Miracles children’s charity. Colleen organised it in her own time and she even purchased bunting and accessories with her own money. The crowd of 30 residents had their moment in the spotlight, as they were photographed in their finest outfits. Colleen, drawing on her training from contract caterer Caterplus, crafted textured modified dishes for residents with dysphagia, along with special options for gluten-free and
diabetic residents. She said: “My residents have become grandparent figures, so to see them out of their flats, all dressed up, singing and dancing the night away, made my day. “If I can make one resident smile my job is done. “My goal was to create an event that they could look forward to, and that could be a talking point for weeks after. They now want me to do one every month.” Adding to the sense of occasion, a raffle was held with prizes including aftershave, perfume, jewellery sets and hampers up for grabs. Residents were treated to singers performing a roster of hits from their heyday, including tracks from the 1940s, 50s and 60s.
The charity ball is just one of the ways The Pavilions boosts the social lives of residents. With many lacking regular visitors or having restricted mobility, daily interactions are often limited to lunch services and coffee mornings. Guests were encouraged to flick through photo albums and discuss past activities – an important reminiscence therapy that brings back happy memories and is known to increase mood, wellbeing and behaviour in those residents with dementia. The team already host curry nights, quizzes, summer fetes, barbecues and other social activities every two months, but the glitz of the charity ball has been so well received, it’s likely to be made a regular occasion.
Dorgard For years Dorgard has been helping care and residential homes to legally hold their fire doors open, making movement around the care setting much easier for residents and staff. As a result of ongoing development there are now three types of Dorgard, offering you a tailored solution to your specific setting and need. All Dorgards release your fire door to automatically close when the fire alarm sounds. For most applications the original Dorgard offers a quick and easy method. The new Dorgard SmartSound has in addition refined sound recognition, meaning that it will not trigger the fire door to close when vacuum cleaning. The Dorgard Pro can either be acoustically triggered or hard wired into your fire alarm system. The Dorgard Pro system is ideal therefore for larger settings and can provide cover for up to 500 fire doors. The Pro also offers you the ability to check the status of all your Dorgards at one glance.
Dorgard
SmartSound
Pro
•
1 year battery life
•
Extended 3 year battery life
•
5 year ‘fit and forget’ battery life
•
Suitable for areas with low noise levels
•
Improved sound recognition, suitable for areas with high noise levels
•
Suitable for areas with high noise levels and for large premises
•
Programmable night-time release
•
Programmable night-time release
•
Offers a LED ‘one glance’ total system check
•
Anti-drag technology, protecting carpets
•
Anti-drag technology, protecting carpets
•
Inclusive of a site survey and installation
FREEPHONE 0800 978 7908 www.safelincs.co.uk
Fire Safety Solutions
Ref: CUK4/18
16
Awards in partnership with
Clydesdale/Yorkshire Bank, who are also sponsoring
Care Group of the Year
CLYDESDALE Bank, established in Glasgow in 1838, and Yorkshire Bank, founded in 1859 in Halifax, are built on strong foundations, dedicated to serving people, businesses and communities. The established and trusted brands of Clydesdale Bank and Yorkshire Bank offer a full range of financial products and services to help people and businesses grow. Our dynamic Health & Social Care team have a wealth of banking experience, are highly skilled in structuring flexible finance packages for customers and share a strong passion for the care home, and wider healthcare sector.
Commitment to Training and Development – ICG ALL care providers who operate in York and North Yorkshire are WELCOME to join the ICG. We want you with us helping to influence the future. We are YOUR organisation. ICG is the recognised representative body for independent care providers (private and voluntary) in York and North Yorkshire. We work on behalf of care providers for all client groups including care homes, domiciliary care agencies, supported living and extra care housing providers,
and day care centres in the private and voluntary parts of the independent sector. For more information about ICG, contact: Keren Wilson, chief executive Independent Care Group Mobile: 07766 714 157 E-mail: keren.wilson@ independentcaregroup. co.uk
All loans are subject to status and applicants must be aged 18 or over. Terms and conditions apply. Please note that security may be required. Any asset used as security will be at risk if you break the agreement. Yorkshire Bank is a trading name of Clydesdale Bank PLC. Derek Breingan Head of Health and Social Care 07818 454674 derek.a.breingan@cybg.com
Lifetime Achievement – Shackletons AT Shackletons we have been creating comfort for more than half a century. We design and manufacture all our furniture in our Dewsbury based workshop – maintaining quality and the highest standards from start to finish. We take our community responsibilities seriously, so wherever possible we use
local suppliers and source materials from the UK. We do this because we believe it gives you all the reassurance you need to choose Shackletons with confidence and ensures everyone who lives with and uses our products enjoys the comfort they deserve. Call 01924 868470 or visit shackletonsltd.co.uk
Retirement Village of National Care Home of the the Year – ServiceSport Year – Safehands Holidays
Two fantastic hotels in two great locations. Both hotels have 40 fully accessible bedroom rooms most equipped with electric profile beds, level access shower rooms with grab and transfer rails, shower chair/ commodes, and overhead tracking. We provide half board holidays / respite breaks with waitress service, all special diets are catered for in our fully accessible restaurants. We have live cabaret entertainment on every night in
our licensed cabaret bar. Our hotels are registered with CQC & CSSIW allowing us to provide bespoke care packages to meet our guests needs. A fully accessible pick up and return service is also available along with accessible days during your stay. For more information or a brochure please visit www.safehandsholidays.co.uk or contact our sales team on 0333 999 8888 sales@safehandsholidays.co.uk
OUR mission is to provide expert, technical support, parts supply and estate management solutions, improving and extending fitness equipment’s life and reliability regardless of the location within the UK. We estate manage, service, maintain and remanufacture in-house, almost all brands of commercial, indoor fitness equipment, offering a range of service levels to suit needs
of all types of operators. Based in Chorley, Lancashire, a workforce of more than 80 people provide a national coverage of servicing and repair. From humble beginnings, ServiceSport achieved over £6m of sales in 2015 and has aspirations for continued growth. 0845 388 4662 www.servicesport.co.uk
End-of-Life team – Fraser and Fraser
WHEN having to research next-of-kin for an unclaimed estate, family members can seem untraceable. It is in supporting these types of cases that working with a professional firm of probate researchers can assist you in saving time and unnecessary costs. By utilising expert knowledge and strong international relationships, Fraser and Fraser assist the public sector and care homes to trace next-of- kin. Tracing family lines can be a complex process, involving time consuming research and having to utilise knowledge of many jurisdictions. By engaging an experienced, well-resourced genealogist and international probate
research firm, you will have the best chance of successfully finding those elusive family members quickly. Fraser and Fraser truly understand the sensitivity that needs to be applied to issues such as tracing next-of-kin. From the outset, we provide clarity regarding the process and costs involved, while at the same time providing you with the added security that all your information is handled with strict confidentiality. For more information contact www.fraserand fraser.co.uk
Regional Care Home – North – CareHomeBedFinder AS a care provider, are you looking to take control of your Bed Availability with an easy and effective workflow solution? CareHomeBedFinder has the solution: n Match families with available beds quickly and efficiently, specifically to the end users specific needs. n Receive regular email notifications to arrange family bookings to view your care home. n Download resident style passports sent to your care home prior to the family visit to enable you to better
understand the residents needs and tailor the walk round. n A bespoke website that focuses on connecting care providers and families . Providing an easy solution to book care as well as care related reviews and opinions for transparency and a more fluid communication with families searching for care for a loved one. Call 01202 233463 or visit CareHomeBedFinder.co.uk
Regional Care Home – Midlands – Matrix
MATRIX Fitness is the commercial division of Johnson Health Tech UK Ltd; suppliers of a complete range of premium cardiovascular and strength-training equipment for facilities in all market sectors, including private health clubs, hotels, local authorities, schools, professional sports teams, and corporate wellness. Our cardiovascular equipment combines technology and entertainment to provide an engaging and challenging workout, while our strength range – including our commercial standard Ultra, Aura, and Magnum products – has been created
to address the full spectrum of end-user needs’; from fixed resistance to plate-loaded equipment. As a Total Solutions Partner, we also offer a comprehensive backup support service, incorporating facility design – from practical 2D drawings, to state-of-the-art 3D rendered visuals and walkthroughs – finance solutions, marketing support, product education, and competitive warranty and maintenance contracts. Visit http://uk.matrixfitness. com/ or call 01782 644900
19
CARINGNEWS
Care home triumphs in gardening competition
GREEN-fingered staff and residents at a Greenock care home are celebrating after digging their way to victory in an annual gardening competition. Kincaid House triumphed over 22 other Meallmore care homes across Scotland, securing the top spot in the care provider’s “Meallmore in Bloom” competition with its creative nautical themed garden design. Inspired by its proximity to the Clyde, the care home’s outdoor space now includes three boats filled with flowers and fishing accessories, a beach hut design windbreaker, a hanging display of buckets and spades and even a mini sand pit. For its efforts, the care home received a prize of £1,000 to put towards gardening and activities, as well as the official “Meallmore in Bloom” plaque. George McDonald, who assists in maintaining the gardens of Meallmore homes across the Central West region, also received the Area Gardener trophy and a £300 voucher. Barbara Lawson, care home manager at Kincaid House, said: “We have been absolutely overwhelmed by the support we have received from our staff and the local community for this project. Many staff came in during their own time and brought their families to help during their days off. “We’d especially like to say a big thank you to students from the
TV actress and media personality Sherrie Hewson has been appointed as an ambassador by Avery Healthcare. Now passionately concerned about the senior adult social sector, following on from her own mother’s experience of being in care, she is now a prominent voice in the quest for better care for those needing support in the senior generation. Sherrie will be visiting all 54 Avery care homes around the country in the next year and bringing her energetic and lively personality to delight the residents and staff alike. Sharon Winfield (chief operating officer, Avery Healthcare) is pictured with TV actress and media personality Sherrie Hewson. Community Links team at West College Scotland and Bright Sparks group, who have been visiting and helping out from the very beginning. “The whole project has really brought the home together and there has been a real buzz of excitement over the last few months. Everyone has benefited and our residents have particularly enjoyed being outside in the glorious weather in our now completely transformed garden.” The competition is now in its third year and is judged by Meallmore director and co-founder Aidan Hennessey, who awarded Kincaid House an impressive score of 90 per cent.
Generations join for project ACEArts’ outreach programme took on a summer twist recently, which enabled older people and schoolchildren to get together and enjoy an ice-cream treat. The charity organised for an artist to visit King Ina Academy in Somerton and work with pupils creating postcards, which they sent to residents at Wessex House nursing home. A second artist then visited the nursing home and helped the residents to create their own postcards to send back to the pupils. The project was funded by
Somerset Community Foundation and culminated in an ice-cream party at Wessex House, where the residents and pupils were able to meet and share their work as well as some summer treats. Nina Gronw-Lewis, curator of ACEarts, said: “Our outreach projects help people of every age to enjoy and take part in art. “We have worked with both Wessex House residents and King Ina Academy pupils before, and this project shows that ice-cream is a shared joy, not matter how young or old you are.”
20
CARINGNEWS Advertiser’s announcement
System helps homes focus on residents rather than revenue and admin HELPING care homes keep the focus on residents, rather than complex revenue and admin, is the aim of CoolCare4. The system handles the often complex and time-consuming processes essential to running a care home effectively, freeing up time to focus on what is the first priority – resident care. CoolCare commercial director Fiona Hale said CoolCare4 represents a big leap forward, having been designed fresh from the ground up. It represents the culmination of CoolCare’s more than two decades of experience, combined with the contemporary needs of the tightly budgeted and increasingly complex care industry. Fiona said: “There has been a big technology change in the care industry over the last couple of years, both in the number of people using tech and people realising if they are going to work over multiple sites,
or maintain records efficiently, they need a digital solution. “We looked at what was happening and what really was in demand was the need for specialist solutions, something which helps a home in the best way possible and is fit directly for purpose. “Our skill set is on that administration side. So CoolCare4 is really about how we can help optimise businesses in this tough funding climate. “We know care home management is a difficult business model, operating on tight margins, even in the private sector, and it is all about managing your cashflow by minimising unnecessary costs and capturing revenue. “Getting the administration aspects right gives operators both the money and the time to invest in their caring service.” CoolCare has been designed to be as user friendly as possible.
“CoolCare4 is all about helping homes run more efficiently, facilitate maximum revenue and manage cash flows effectively in a really easy way.”
Fiona Hale And it is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, recognising the 9-5pm work shift is no longer the norm. “Our occupancy management tool has had a complete redesign, to reflect the fact that the people often handling it are on the front line themselves and have plenty of plates to spin,” Fiona said. “Bringing in new enquiries has to be as easy as possible. We want staff to be able to show the same care as they
do in their regular work - it shouldn’t feel like a sales process, it is just making sure they reflect themselves best to people interested.” Fiona said feedback from homes which have already taken up CoolCare4 has been really positive, with many remarking how streamlined it is to use. The new dashboard feature can be tailored to each user, so they see the information most relevant to them. The ability to deal with enquiries and occupancy easier has reduced marketing spend, and it is more simple than ever to keep on top of appraisals and training, aspects essential to any inspections by the Care Quality Commission. Rostering and timekeeping also helps capture any staffing overspend. And CoolCare4 works for single, independent homes just as well as it does for far larger groups. “Whether you are a small, family run business or a huge 200 care home chain, it should and does work for both because the challenges they face are universal,” Fiona added. “CoolCare4 is all about helping homes run more efficiently, facilitate maximum revenue and manage cash flows effectively in a really easy way.” To find out more, visit https://lntsoftware.com
Headline Sponsor
Let’s
transform care together
FREE EVENT Tailored for care professionals
FREE CPD SEMINARS
HANDS ON WORKSHOPS
Get your FREE tickets at careroadshows.co.uk or call 01425 838393
NETWORK WITH PEERS
21
CARINGNEWS
App harnesses power of music to help people with dementia By Dominic Musgrave AN innovative new app is triggering musical memories for people with dementia to help them cope with the challenges of daily life. The programme for mobile devices is being developed with the help of residents at the Pendine Park care organisation in Wrexham who specialise in providing dementia care. The Memory Tracks app is the brainchild of business development expert Gordon Anderson. He is working on it with Manchester Metropolitan University’s Stuart Cunningham, who is also a visiting professor of Affective Computing at Wrexham Glyndwr University, alongside Mark Brill, senior lecturer in Creative Advertising, and Harry Whalley, lecturer in Music Composition and Technology, at the University for the Creative Arts Dementia symptoms include memory loss which causes confusion and agitation, and the app aims to help people overcome these challenges posed by the cruel condition by linking their daily tasks to their personal choice of reminiscence music. According to Gordon, Pendine Park was the ideal partner for the project because it had championed the use of the arts in social care for more than two decades. He said: “We hope to see a real
Pendine Park Memory Track project launch; Pictured are Stuart Cunningham and Gordon Anderson with Pendine care practitioners Alisha Bagnall, Emily Williams and Helen Watts. and measurable improvement in tied to emotions which are proven to the mood of residents who use be more resilient to loss of other types the app, and a much happier care of memories. environment within the home. “Dementia results in steady “Initially care practitioners will play deterioration of the brain function songs on tablets from a list of tracks causing a wide range of daily tailored to the individual resident. issues for sufferers such as anxiety, “Those songs will act as triggers, disorientation, anger, fear, irritability, for example; one song may mean depression, and withdrawal. it’s time to get dressed another may “The use of reminiscence music can mean its medication time or time to significantly decrease many of these eat or exercise. The idea stems from behaviours and improve the lives of the fact that music builds long-term those living with dementia and their associative memories which are often carers.”
Borough Care held a teddy bears’ picnic for residents. It was part of a sensory walk, which the largest not for profit provider of care for older people in Stockport hosts each week until the winter. Borough Care has recently decided to theme its weekly walks, and the teddy bears’ picnic was the first one. Residents and staff met with a teddy bear to walk around Woodbank Memorial Park. After the walk everyone who took part enjoyed a picnic followed by an ice cream. Iris Southern, a resident at Borough Care’s Silverdale home, is pictured participating in the teddy bears’ picnic.
CARINGNEWS
24
CARINGINTERIORS, DESIGN AND FURNISHINGS
Pre-launch of Goodson Lodge achieves highest Oak Hall is ever score for dementia design announced ELIZABETH Finn Homes has announced the pre-launch of Oak Hall in Haslemere, Surrey. This is the 10th and latest addition to the portfolio of homes that the provider operates across England. The building is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment and is scheduled to open its doors in the Autumn. When completed, Oak Hall will offer luxurious surroundings for 51 residents. Restaurant-style dining is a key feature, alongside a dedicated social engagement team who will be running a wide range of activities to keep residents active. There will be an on-site hairdresser and a fully-licensed bar. Karen Williams, general manager at Oak Hall, said: “We are very excited about offering a new standard of care for discerning residents. All the other homes in the Elizabeth Finn portfolio enjoy exceptional ratings from residents and families and we are planning to get Oak Hall to the same high standard. “I and all of my staff are looking forward to welcoming our first residents into their new home where we will provide outstanding care and a vibrant lifestyle, catering to their personal choice.”
THE Orders of St John Care Trust’s Goodson Lodge Care Centre in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, has been awarded the Dementia Design Gold Award by independent experts at the Dementia Services Development Centre University of Stirling. In achieving this award, Goodson Lodge attained an assessment score of 98 per cent for its dementia friendly design, setting a new benchmark as the highest scoring residential aged care setting on record world-wide. The Dementia Design Gold Accreditation Award, which is only offered to environments that achieve the highest standards of design, is administered by the University of Stirling’s Dementia Services Development Centre – an international centre of knowledge and expertise dedicated to improving the lives of people with dementia. The accreditation scheme independently assesses both hospital and residential care settings through a detailed and extensive audit process that rates the design of the building against research-evidenced dementia design principles. Client development manager for The Orders of St John Care Trust, Dr Timothy Plant, said: “I am delighted that Goodson Lodge has achieved this remarkable score from the University of Stirling. It’s a testament to the work of the Trust in prioritising the needs and wellbeing of people with
Goodson Lodge Care Centre in Trowbridge, Wiltshire. dementia that we support. including a lounge, sitting room, “We are proud that the design of open plan kitchen and dining room. the building around our ‘household’ The centre also includes a ‘high model raises the bar for dementia street’ featuring cinema, hairdressing design and has been recognised salon, café and shop where residents not only for providing an excellent can buy supplies, toiletries and environment for people with greetings cards. dementia to live, but also for care Goodson Lodge home manager, colleagues to work.” Annette Ayles, added: “It is a Goodson Lodge Care Centre was privilege to work in such a special completed in spring 2017 and environment. Spaces are cosy and accommodates 64 residents. Split on a domestic scale and keep our over two floors, the state-of-the-art residents independent, stimulated home offers compassionate care in an and active. “They are able to use the space like environment that has been sensitively they would their own homes. Our designed with residents’ well-being residents are proof that this new type in mind. of home has a massive impact on the Every resident has access to a way we live.” homely household living area, Advertiser’s announcement
Starscape
Fibre Optic Lighting. The Galaxy Star Ceiling
Why not treat your residents to something very special every day? Our lovely Galaxy star ceiling not only looks great with hundreds of gently twinkling stars, but installs in a couple of hours, even in existing rooms. Explore our comprehensive website for information on this and many more star ceiling systems. The technical bit: 300 stars points in 4 different fibre diameters. MiniLED550 light source located above
www.starscape.co.uk 01289 332900 info@starscape.co.uk
Relax under the stars THERE’S something remarkably soothing about the gentle twinkle of fibre optic stars, and major airlines take advantage of this, putting stars in the cabin headliners of their longhaul jets. The stars help passengers to relax and settle down for those long nighttime sectors. Care home companies in the UK are also increasingly appreciating the appeal of the stars, whether for bathrooms, sensory rooms, lounges or TV/cinema rooms. Traditionally, the major downside to fibre optic star ceilings lay in the difficulty in installing them, particularly as a retrofit.
However, Northumberlandbased Starscape Star Ceilings has made a specialty of designing and manufacturing panel-based products which hugely reduce the amount of time and effort required to install a star ceiling. The company can supply panels made from a wide range of materials – plasterboard, aluminium composite, mdf – to suit specific needs and environments. Star density – the number of stars per square metre – can be adjusted to suit preferences and budget – while the effects available range from a subtle white twinkle to dynamic colour change routines, as desired.
CARINGINTERIORS, DESIGN AND FURNISHINGS
Blairgowrie home wins prize for presentation A BLAIRGOWRIE care home is celebrating after receiving a national prize for the best presented home. Muirton House received a second place award from Larchwood Care, which operates the home. It was presented with a £2,000 prize, which will be spent on new shower chairs for the residents, and was also given a staff reward of £300. Muirton House was chosen as one of the best presented of the group’s portfolio of care homes in England, Scotland and South Wales. The award was presented to the team by Liz Williamson, regional manager for Larchwood Care in Scotland. Catherine Russell, home manager, said: “We are thrilled to have been acknowledged as one of the company’s best presented care homes. “We are always looking for ways to improve the wellbeing of our residents and while that includes regular trips out, it is very important for their own surroundings to be stimulating but comfortable. “The specialist shower chairs that we will be able to buy with the prize money are designed to be more comfortable for residents to use. The chairs will be a great addition to the home, as they will enable someone who’s not able to sit on a
Liz Williamson presents the award to Catherine Russell, home manager. conventional shower chair, to still service they provide. have the option of taking a shower. “It is a beautiful facility with a While this may seem small, this is an stunning garden area for residents to example of the things that positively enjoy but the home is strengthened impact the day-to-day routines of our by the determination and creativity residents and we are delighted to be that Catherine, the staff and the able to provide that.” nurses have shown when it comes Liz Williamson, regional manager, to keeping the home in a first-class added: “The Muirton House team condition with fantastic facilities and should be very proud about the features.”
Appointment at design and building firm BUILDING and design company Wynbrook, which specialises in care homes and exclusive residential design and build projects, has appointed Karen Watson as business development manager and assistant to the directors. Karen joins Wynbrook, which is based in Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottingham, from the global consultants Gleeds and has more than 20 years’ experience of working in the construction industry gained through working on projects within the healthcare, housing, education, leisure and public sectors. Her role will be to support company directors Mike and Steve Day and Chris Smith, as well as helping Wynbrook to refine its business processes, build external relationships and enhance its business development, marketing and online presence. Karen added: “I am delighted to be joining Wynbrook and to have the ability to help them expand their business relationships to grow their business. “There will be lots of autonomy in my new role and I look forward to bringing my experience of working in a global practice to help Wynbrook further improve its business processes.”
What do you want your home to look like?
FIRSTLY consider the look you want to achieve and the practicalities based on the style of home and your client group. If you can involve residents and their families, giving an element of choice then so much the better. This may be in the early stages of decision making or when narrowing down the option’s or maybe giving a selection from three final possible designs. Too much choice can be a bit daunting and confusing, but it is still nice to have a say! Colour is one of the most important elements but it is important to look at paints, carpets, curtains etc at different times of the day as it is surprising how the colour can change. Always consider the orientation of the building – how much light comes in and at what time of day. Residents with visual difficulties may not see colour in the same way, so colour contrast should also be used to highlight changes of level and other possible risk factors as well as indicating where the
wallpaper murals seating is against the wall and flooring. If you can incorporate variety in texture and styles to be more stimulating and in furnishings to allow sizes for individual comfort then you should achieve a great environment. Enquiries: If however you need any assistance with this then our services can be tailored to your individual needs, so please call us on 020 8339 6133 or email info@access21ltd.co.uk
designed exclusively for care homes View our wallpaper collection online
www.carehomemurals.co.uk
Colourful mural imagery carefully crafted to engage the viewer and encourage interaction
01283 712171
CareHome Murals
25
CHRISTOPHER GUY INTERIORS
FOR THE HIGHEST QUALITY CARE HOME CHAIRS IN THE COUNTRY
Our Price Comparison Challenge
Save Up To and Over 30% On Our Competitors Prices Check their respective costs for details
Shackletons - Barons - RenRay - CareChair - YTM Furniture
Our Massive Clearance Sale Florence High Seat Chair in Taunton Thisle
Queen Anne Chair in Panaz Circuit Vinyl Various Colours Queen Anne Chair in Now Only £124.99 Antique Brown With Hugo Terracotta Now Only £124.99
Fully Impervious
Fully Impervious Queen Anne Chair in Antique Brown and Coastal Path Now £109.99
Loch Florence Now Only £349.99
Coastal Path Deluxe Footstool Now Only £54.99
Florence Chair in Rio Chrome
Piccadilly Chair Christopher Guy Interiors, Units 2&3 GB Business Park, Cutler Heights Lane, Bradford, Ask About Our 3 BD4 9HZ Year Warranty Tel: 01274 660 123 Vinyl Florence Email: enquiries@christopherguyinteriors.com High Seat Chair Web: www.christopherguyinteriors.com
Windsor Cub Chair
You won't believe it's vinyl
Illustration. The Stratford ÂŁ199
Exclusive to Christopher Guy Interiors.
We provide the highest quality vinyls in the country today.
Tel: 01274 660 123 Web: www.christopherguyinteriors.com email: enquiries@christopherguyinteriors.com
SPONSORED BY
28
Sunrise of Purley.
Home awarded Platinum status with Excellence for its end-of-life care SUNRISE of Purley has been awarded Platinum status with Excellence for its end-of-life care following a re-accreditation. In a further achievement, the care home is one of 10 that has also been shortlisted for the Gold Standards Framework Care Home of the Year 2018. The home recently completed the GSF’s re-accreditation assessment and was given the Quality Hallmark Award at Platinum status. The award recognises the sustained practice to maintain GSF throughout the home and determined that Sunrise of Purley’s efforts were worthy of joining a growing community of care homes who continue to demonstrate excellence in care. The award also recognised the significant developments that Sunrise has made to its care since its last assessment. Jacqueline Ritchie, general manager of Sunrise of Purley, said: “We are so honoured to be awarded for our endof-life care. “Sunrise of Purley will be the last residence for those who come here to receive this care and all our team members take this privilege incredibly seriously, creating the best possible memories for residents and their families.
“Receiving a Platinum with excellence status really is an acknowledgement of our dedicated and motivated team.”
“Receiving a Platinum with excellence status really is an acknowledgement of our dedicated and motivated team. “Putting our heart and soul into our care is paramount to what we do at Sunrise and we are thrilled that the GSF has recognised this in both our re-accreditation and shortlisting for Care Home of the Year.” The accreditation process included the inspection of 20 clear standards of best practice of care for residents nearing the end of life. Judges, who included national independent experts from the care home sector, evaluated the care of residents using the After-Death Analysis Audit Tool and Quality Assessment Visit, looking out for standards like communication, person-centred care and a practical dementia-friendly environment. Sunrise of Purley excelled across the board, with its identification and support of residents’ emotional, social and spiritual needs, as well as bereavement support for families, given particular recognition. In its report the judges said all team members at Sunrise “are able to describe their part in end-of-life care as well as ensuring residents have a full and happy life.” The team has also “proven themselves to be caring, compassionate and knowledgeable about ensuring residents live well and end their lives reflecting the true ethos of GSF.” The GSF has invited the care home to be presented with their award at the annual award ceremony, due to take place in London at the end of September.
New Required Systems KLOE Audit Tool AN online cloud-based Audit Tool giving you instant access, that will assist you to evidence compliance to the way the KlOES are being inspected by CQC. Very easy to use and will save you time. Go to our web site to see the comprehensive on-line demo. Enquiries: Call 01236 782477, visit www.requiredsystems.com or email peter@requiredsystems.com
www.requiredsystems.com
New manager appointed
HANRO Steytler has been appointed Oakland House care home in Reydon near Southwold’s new manager. Hanro, who is from Trimley St Mary near Felixstowe, joins the team with years of experience in the care industry and is looking to implement work to take the home towards an outstanding rating. Oaklands House has an enviable reputation in the local area and is currently rated ‘Good’ by the CQC. Hanro will be working on bringing new systems and support to the team at the home to move its service delivery to the next level, building on the work already underway. Prior to joining Oaklands House, Hanro was the deputy manager of Aldringham Court Nursing Home in Leiston, another of the homes
within the Healthcare Homes group. She has worked within the care industry for many years, learning the service while at university as a care assistant, and working in every department of the care home environment before moving her way up towards management positions. Hanro said: “I’m really looking forward to life here at Oaklands House; from the moment I entered the building I felt at home. “There really is a wonderful environment here – the residents are so happy, the team is positive and passionate, and they have done so much work to be proud of. Joining Hanro is new head of care, Alice Chapman from Beccles, who has moved from The White House where she worked as senior care assistant.
Sensory garden is unveiled at ‘Outstanding’ Malden House MALDEN House in Sidmouth has proudly unveiled its new sensory garden for residents and guests to enjoy. The garden has been carefully planned to not only be aesthetically pleasing but to also have multiple health and wellbeing benefits for the residents who live with dementia. Taking eight weeks to plan and create, the sensory space begun with shopping for plants and seeds and consulting with the residents to create a vision for the space. Tsafir Gryman, the maintenance man responsible for the garden, said: “We always wanted to include
scented and edible plants because they have a positive effect on the body, mind and home. “There’s something satisfying about nurturing a plant and our residents have been involved with the whole process from beginning to end. We actively encourage our residents to have a hands-on attitude to dig in and get their hands dirty because that is part of the fun.” The 19-bed home, registered to care for older people and those living with dementia was awarded four ‘Outstanding’ stars for being well-led, responsive, caring and effective in May.
32
CARINGTRAINING AND RECRUITMENT
Operator is awarded Platinum GSF status
Caremark Cardiff and The Vale of Glamorgan care workers, from the left: Lauren White, Dawn Evans and Emma Walters.
Homecare firm puts CIW pass down to teamwork A HOMECARE provider that offers specialist care to residents throughout Cardiff and the Vale is celebrating after having recently passed its latest CIW inspection. Sharan Dhaliwal, managing director of Caremark Cardiff & The Vale of Glamorgan, was delighted with the results following the second annual inspection by the Care Inspectorate Wales. During the unannounced visit on May 31 the inspector noted that Caremark Cardiff and The Vale of Glamorgan was providing acceptable standard care across three key areas – quality of life, quality of staffing and quality of leadership and management. The report, published recently, said: “People can be confident that their needs are understood, recorded, monitored and responded to appropriately. “We spoke with relatives of people using the service who told us that they were happy with the service being received. One person told us that ‘the carers are marvellous’. People can be assured that they
will receive a quality service that enhances their wellbeing.” The inspector also noted that: “People can be confident that they are supported by staff who are kind, caring and respectful. People benefit from a service which is managed effectively, with systems in place to ensure that needs of people are met appropriately. We conclude that people benefit from the leadership and management at Caremark and can be confident that the service is monitored regularly and continually looking to improve.” Sharan, along with her care manager Zinia Johns and the team of office staff and care workers, put significant policies and procedures in place to assure compliance across the board. She added: “This rating is testament to the incredible team and the hard work they put in every day. This truly was a group effort, and something we’re proud to celebrate together. “By putting our clients’ needs at the forefront of our business, we’ve built a compassionate culture which helps to maintain a high standard of care.”
ELIZABETH Finn Homes’ Grove Court in Woodbridge, Suffolk and Halliwell in Tunbridge Wells, Kent have been awarded the prestigious Platinum status by the National Gold Standards Framework Centre in end-of-life care. To qualify for accreditation, care homes must have undertaken the full GSF training programme over nine months, embedded this into their homes for at least six months and then undertaken a rigorous accreditation process: ‘Going for Gold’. The accreditation process includes: n Assessment against 20 clear standards of best practice. n Reviewing the care of residents using the After Death Analysis Audit Tool. n Quality Assessment Visit – reviewing the integration of the processes into everyday practice. To achieve Accreditation a home must achieve at least 84 per cent of the standards, which includes four vital standards. To attain Commend status a home must show innovative and established good practice in at least six of the 20 standards. To be recognised as a Beacon (the highest level), a home must show innovative and established good practice across at least 12 of the standards. GSF wanted to celebrate the sustained excellent practice of care homes that have embedded GSF
Halliwell Care Home in Tunbridge Wells. in their core working practices. In acknowledgment of this, homes that achieve re-accreditation will now be known as GSF Platinum homes. An extract from one of the reports reads: “The Leadership team are passionate about GSF and ensuring that residents and their loved ones get high quality care from the minute they have contact with the home to bereavement. The passion from the team is reflected in the passion of the staff.” Liz Clements, Elizabeth Finn Homes’ palliative care lead, added: “Across the entire portfolio of 10 homes, Elizabeth Finn Homes has always sought to fully embrace excellence in end-of-life care. “Along with dedicated croup resource, each of our general managers and staff are constantly seeking to maintain very high standards, this achievement in two of our homes fully evidences this.”
Tanya is named village’s experience coordinator Home nurtures next generation of care industry personnel Staff say a fond farewell to Broomgrove Nursing Home.
CARE village operator Belong has appointed Tanya Guy as experience coordinator for its state-of-the-art village in Wigan, with responsibility for the development and implementation of a programme of activities suitable for customers of varying ages and abilities within the village and local community. Educated at St Peter’s High School in Orrell, Tanya later gained NVQ Level 3 in Business and Administration at Wigan and Leigh College, following which she joined Belong Wigan as a receptionist in 2012. Within two years she had gained promotion to the role of experience day support worker; a post she held until her recent appointment as experience coordinator. Already experienced in the new role, having covered the post
on an interim basis, prior to her appointment, Tanya has hit the ground running with organisation of a busy village schedule, including the summer fair festivities and participation in the Wigan Pride festival. She said: “I am absolutely thrilled with my position as experience coordinator. “After nearly seven years working for Belong I never thought I could go from being a maternity-cover receptionist to a member of the management team. “As an organisation there is great emphasis on training and progression for staff; which helps to foster a real feeling of inclusivity. It’s like one big family, and I am really pleased to be such an integral part of it.”
RESIDENTS were out in force to say their own goodbye to a record number of staff that have landed places at university this autumn. Ten employees from Sheffield’s renowned Broomgrove Care Home are going on to further education within the healthcare industry – two to medical school, seven to pursue nursing degrees and one to do a physiotherapy degree. The home enjoys a strong working relationship with the nearby King Edward VII School. Many of the staff started at Broomgrove immediately after leaving school or even earlier in some cases. Care home staff organised a presentation ceremony to allow
residents to say a personal ‘farewell’ to the individuals. Donna Pierpoint, the manager at Broomgrove, said: “We’re always keen for members of staff to better themselves, but this year has been record – even for us. “It really is a win-win situation,” Donna added. “The students gain valuable experience and we gain a highly educated and enthusiastic member of staff. Residents love to watch them grow into the amazing people they become by the time they leave us.” Many of the students will not be leaving altogether – some will continue to work at Broomgrove Nursing Home and do ‘bank’ shifts in between their studies.
34 lamontjohnson.com
ARE YOU THINKING OF SELLING? Phone us today for a no obligation appraisal and free market advice
Totally dentia Confidential No Obligation
07920 475 440
Should Britain adopt the Danish care home model?
or mail us
lamontjohnson@btinternet.com
Page 36
Show apartment opened by one of the first purchasers
Page 37
Firm expands with three new appointments
Page 39
CARE HOME SALES NATIONWIDE
New luxury care wing opens in Boston By Dominic Musgrave
LINCOLNSHIRE’S largest private provider has opened a new residential care facility in Boston after a sixmonth refurbishment. Tanglewood Care Homes has established Forget-Me-Not Court – a 16-bed courtyard wing at Hunters Creek care home. The garden wing, which in recent months has undergone a complete renovation, is for the more discerning residents who are looking for an active retirement in homely surroundings with the support of Tanglewood’s carers. Forget-Me-Not Court residents who make the wing their home can expect extra benefits as part of their overall care package. Director and founder of Tanglewood Care Homes, Tracy Ann Shelbourn, said: “Forget-Me-Not Court aims to be the best residential care community in the county in terms
of its facilities, social activities, décor and furnishings. “It is perfect for older people who are still young at heart and seek an active retirement in comfortable and peaceful surroundings.” Residents at Forget-Me-Not Court will enjoy: n Top-of-the-range beds with pressure-relieving mattresses. n TV and en-suite in each room.
Home manager at Hunters Creek care home Dupe Adewuyi and deputy manager Vicki Worth at the new facility. n Membership to the Forget-Me-Not Court social club. n Several social areas including a courtyard lounge and its own themed bistro/dining area. n Care concierge to make residents’ stay more comfortable and personalised. n Skype facility to keep in touch with family and friends. n Activities and hobbies programme
tailored to Forget-Me-Not Court residents only. n Hair and manicure salon. To add a personal touch, each bedroom has a different colour scheme. Tanglewood has worked with an artist to provide new, personalised murals throughout the wing. Forget-Me-Not Court will be led by Dupe Adewuyi, home manager of Hunters Creek. She said: “It’s exciting and pleasing that we’ve reached the point where we can show off what a fantastic facility Forget-Me-Not Court is. “The garden wing has been designed in such a way as to ensure residents feel part of a community. “Forget-Me-Not Court is designed for people with low care needs, and my team is fully trained and prepared to not only to make sure the residents are safe but also to maintain a high standard of living for the duration of their stay.”
SOLD
NO
“UPFRONT” FEES or INFLATED COMMISSION RATES!
successfully by
LAMONT JOHNSON
MATTHIAS HOUSE, TIPTON, WEST MIDLANDS Sold on behalf of Dr. and Mrs Williams, and Mr J Timmins to an existing operator, Mr Cahal Grant of New Cross Properties. Care Home registered for 33, managment operated, 29 bedrooms, with planning for an additional 4 ensuite bedrooms. Thirty plus years in existing ownership. Our success in the sale of Care Homes is second to none in the care sector, and has been achieved through the 37 years experience of principal directors, Grayson and Dawn Taylor, specialising solely in the discreet sale of Care Homes and sites/developments for C2 use nationwide.
Grayson Taylor (Managing Director, Lamont Johnson) •1981 FOUNDING PRINCIPAL of Taylor National •2001 FOUNDING PRINCIPAL of DC Care •2012 FOUNDING PRINCIPAL of Lamont Johnson
OVER 01937 842 758 37 YEARS EXPERIENCE
m.07920 475 440
Totally Confidential No Obligation
IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO SELL PHONE US TODAY
Lamont Johnson PROPERTY ADVISORS TO THE CARE SECTOR
lamontjohnson.com lamontjohnson@btinternet.com
CARE HOMES SALES NATIONWIDE
SOLD
lamontjohnson.com lamont SOLD ON BEHALF OF MARRAN LIMITED
AS A GROUP
3 LEARNING DISABILITY HOMES GUISBOROUGH NORTH YORKSHIRE
Brunswick House. Reg 3
NO
“UPFRONT” FEES or INFLATED COMMISSION RATES!
Miltoun House. Reg 18 Our success in the sale of Care Homes has been achieved through providing a professional and personal service, combined with the expertise, industry knowledge and experience of principal directors, Grayson and Dawn Taylor, gained over 37 years of specialising solely in the discreet sale of Care Homes and sites/developments for C2 use nationwide.
Arran House. Reg 4
Totally Confidential No Obligation
01937 842 758 or mail us:
PHONE US TODAY
Lamont Johnson
lamontjohnson@btinternet.com
Mobile: 07920 475440
Looking for a quick and discreet sale?
SALES NATIONWIDE
PROPERTY ADVISORS TO THE CARE SECTOR
36
On a recent business trip to Denmark, Jeremy Huband, HSBC’s head of healthcare, spent two days observing a care home model quite different to the one we have here in the UK.
Should Britain adopt the Danish care home model? CARE homes across the world largely operate the same model: they provide bedrooms, day space, subsistence and various levels of activity for residents. What’s different about the model in Denmark, however, is the open, trustworthy and flexible nature of its care homes. There were no signing-in books, residents were free to roam as they pleased and some even had gyms that were open to the local community. The staff kept a keen eye on goings on, but locked doors and keypad entry systems were not in use at the homes we visited. Unlike in the UK, I don’t recall seeing any coffee shops, cinemas, spa rooms, reminiscence rooms or sweet shops either, but all the residents seemed happy and content. Danish residents wandering in and out didn’t pose a problem for staff, who kept a watchful eye and accompanied or re-directed them as appropriate.
Jeremy Huband In essence, care was provided, but people were living their own lives, in their own way, in an environment they liked. Moving to the village care home appeared to be a positive choice for many Danes. The ‘Danish model’ also sees care homes utilising the skills and time of district nurses paid for by their
Lamont Johnson complete sale of 3 learning disabilty homes in Guisborough North Yorkshire
SOLD AS A GROUP ON BEHALF OF MARRAN LIMITED
Miltoun House
Brunswick House
Arran House
Miltoun House registered 18, Arran House registered 4 and Brunswick House registered 3. All three properties were sold on behalf of Roger and Jane Dexter-Smith of Marran Ltd. The buyer was Manchester based Fairhome Property Investments Ltd. For a no obligation appraisal and advice on how we can help sell your home, phone us on 07920 475 440 or mail us at lamontjohnson@btinternet.com
Lamont Johnson PROPERTY ADVISORS TO THE CARE SECTOR
NATIONWIDE
equivalent of the NHS, rather than directly employing in-house nurses. The district nurse is assigned a geographic area and visits patients in their homes, and, if they need to move into the local care home, the nurse continues to look after them there. In Denmark, district nurses told us about the benefits of continuity of care and how satisfying their work is, something less commonly heard here in the UK. The homes we visited did not have nurses in situ 24-hours a day. Instead, they had highly skilled staff providing non-clinical medical care, only calling on clinical assistance from a nurse or GP when required. In the UK, there is still a regulatory requirement to have a nurse in a nursing home at all times, so some of our larger care home groups are already up-skilling care staff to help nurses care for a larger number of service users. The nursing shortage in the UK is rarely out of the press these days, driven largely by the removal of
bursaries and a rise in the number of people leaving the profession due to poor remuneration and long working hours. As such, the NHS is forced to look overseas for nursing staff – but even this presents problems. Brexit means European nurses are less inclined to travel to the UK and we have strict English language tests which have only recently been waived for English speaking countries. By releasing nurses from nursing homes and back into the NHS and other areas, it means we can begin to adopt a ‘care home’ rather than a ‘nursing home’ model. It also means nurses can be deployed when and where required. Not only is this good for the care homes and the NHS, it’s more satisfying for the nurses to be able to follow their patients. A one-size-fits all approach doesn’t always work, but flexing our care home regulation to allow nurses to nurse where required would be a refreshing change from the norm.
Encore eyes growth with new home development A CARE home provider is expanding its portfolio into Poole, with support from Clydesdale Bank. Work has started on The Oakdale, Encore’s 84-bed facility, which will be the fourth state-of-the-art care home it has designed, built and opened in the last five years. Developed to offer the highest standard of care to residents, the team specialises in residential, nursing and dementia care, and the property has been designed to be light and welcoming. Each bedroom has an en-suite and there are a number of lounge areas, terraces and landscaped gardens for residents, family and friends to enjoy. Encore has an ambitious growth strategy and is targeting the opening of three care homes a year. The Oakdale is set to open next summer, while its property in Redhill will be ready in 2020. The business is also undergoing planning permission for sites in Pembury and Reading, as well as identifying other locations. Claire Harrison, finance director at Encore, said: “We are an ambitious and well-resourced business in a competitive industry but we have developed a strong proposition and we want to dramatically grow Encore and provide outstanding care to areas across the South. “Poole is an excellent location for our next opening – we are looking forward to adding to the care options in the community and welcoming our
first residents next summer. We have spent a great deal of time working on the design and specification of our care homes and the feedback from our established properties has been extremely encouraging. “As well as offering the highest level of care in beautiful surroundings, we also place great emphasis on the wide programme of activities we offer residents, ensuring it increases their health and wellbeing. This is an area that will be developed in partnership with our residents when we open The Oakdale.” Clydesdale Bank has provided an £8.8m development facility to support the Oakdale care home, with senior director of health and social care Johnny Rowe leading the team. Claire added: “We have enjoyed working with Clydesdale Bank – Johnny and his team have taken the time to understand our business and been able to offer the right support at the right times. Their knowledge and experience of our industry has been incredibly beneficial as we have gone through this process and it’s great that construction is underway and making good progress.”
37
Anne Lunt cuts the ribbon to the new show apartment at Richmond Wood Norton with Paul Brady, village manager.
Show apartment opened by one of the first purchasers THE first show apartment at Richmond Wood Norton has been officially opened by Anne Lunt, 72, one of the first people to purchase a property at the new retirement village. There to help Anne cut the ribbon and show her around was Paul Brady, the village manager, and his team. Designed for today’s modern living, the apartments at Richmond Wood Norton are large, spacious and light, and feature design touches such as fully equipped fitted kitchens and walk-in showers, with comfort and ease of use carefully considered throughout. The show apartment includes two bedrooms, one with an en-suite wet room, a main bathroom, a large
sitting room, kitchen, large utility and store room. Offering 1,078 sq ft of accommodation, there is lift access to all floors including the underground parking, access to the gardens via its own private patio, and is on the market at £480,000. Anne said: “The apartment is just so beautiful. Having watched as the construction progressed, I can’t wait to move in.” Situated just a few minutes’ walk from the Village centre building with its facilities, these exclusive apartments are located in a number of different positions, offering a choice of view over the surrounding countryside and woodland, the landscaped grounds and beyond to the Vale of Evesham.
39
Provider shortlisted for national award
HOUSING & Care 21 has been shortlisted for a national industry award celebrating the UK’s best housing developers. Shortlisted in the Best Partnership category at the Inside Housing Development Awards, the not-forprofit organisation’s work with Doncaster Council on a new extra care facility in Thorne was selected from a vast amount of entries to reach the finals. The new property, Casson Court, is set to open later this year, boasting a Motte and Bailey castle in its court gardens. It will offer 72 one and two bedroom apartments for rent and shared ownership. The Inside Housing Development Awards provides an opportunity for landlords, developers and architects to have their teams and developments recognised in the UK. An expert panel of judges including representatives from Homes England, Housing and Finance Institute and many more will collaborate to select winners from a total of 14 categories. The winners will then be revealed at a black tie awards ceremony on November 29 at The Brewery in London. Siobhan Moore, head of development at Housing & Care 21 said: “Casson Court is not just one of our latest developments; it’s also one
with a difference. “When the rare opportunity arose to have a piece of Norman history within the development gardens, we worked with Doncaster Council’s Strategic Housing team to ensure that it was made possible. “Not only will this provide additional value for future residents of Casson Court, but it will also ensure the preservation of a historic monument. “All of our courts are built with the community in mind and with such an attraction as the Peel Hill Motte; Casson Court looks set to become a real community hub. After all, how many other housing developments for older people offer the opportunity to make history a part of the future.” she added. Casson Court is set to open in December.
Firm expands with three new appointments SOCIAL care property consultancy Carterwood has appointed three new members to its expanding team following a record year of growth. FCCA qualified accountant Jane Grimsted joins as financial controller and takes on responsibility for Carterwood’s finance function, including applying her keen eye for detail to budget management, financial reporting and strategic financial planning and development. 2018 Psychology graduate of the University of the West of England, Sophie Evans, joins as a graduate research analyst and will apply the research and analytical skills she gained during her studies to undertaking initial research and
The New HPC Location Report Assess the feasibility of proposed care home development Used by investors, operators and developers Over 100 reports issued annually In depth market analysis incorporating key competitor imagery Highly visual data provision and analysis Interactive map offering Target Area options Additional Micro and Macro market identification and comment Concluding Director comment to each report
Contact HPC today on 01904 529110 Email enquiries@healthcarepc.co.uk Visit www.healthcarepc.co.uk
analysing and interpreting data. Finally, Matt Darragh joins as a student research analyst. Currently studying Geography in his second year at the University of the West of England, Matt will gain more than a year of experience at Carterwood before returning to university to complete his final year. Commenting on the appointments, Carterwood co-founder and managing director Amanda Nurse, said: “We are so pleased to welcome Jane, Sophie and Matt to our team. Jane’s vast experience in corporate finance will benefit us greatly, and we look forward to nurturing Sophie and Matt as they begin their ambitious careers on our graduate programme.”
40
CARINGNEWS
Cura makes technology work for the caregiver
Flying Sam’s sensory décor brings joy to residents RESIDENTS at Balhousie Forth View care home have been enjoying an array of new sensory experiences after a member of staff braved a fundraising bungee jump earlier to help enhance the lives of residents. Deputy care home manager Samantha Beattie completed the daring 160ft bungee jump last May at Glasgow Riverside Museum, raising £1,300 to provide the care home with sensory items designed to stimulate and help improve residents’ mood and communication. Since then, residents have felt the full benefit of Samantha’s fundraising initiatives, which have transformed areas of the care home. Affectionately known as ‘Flying Sam’ by staff and residents, Samantha’s fundraising efforts have enabled the Methil care home to purchase several vibrant wall murals, including a fish mural which adorns the walls of the dementia lounge. Other murals include a launderette and post office mural in some of the corridors, a window looking out into a blue lagoon, a graffiti art mural and some peaceful wildlife murals including a family of deer. Other additions include enhancements to the home’s garden. Solar lights have been introduced along with new wind chimes, butterflies, and ribbons for the sensory garden as well as an array of
new plants. Sensory cushions, mood pillows and night projectors which help residents’ sleep have been added as well. Samantha said: “The murals are looking fantastic and the night projectors in particular have been very calming for a number of our residents. “They also play natural sounds from the beach and birds chirping which is very relaxing. The next challenge is to raise the funds for a special sensory table. I’m not sure about another bungee jump though.” In October 2017, ‘Flying Sam’ took part in a skydive to raise funds for a state-of-the-art virtual reality system which enables residents to virtually fly around the United States and experience virtual deep- sea diving without having to move from their chair. Balhousie Forth View Care Home manager, Gordon Candlish, added: “Sensory equipment, whether that is a virtual reality system or a cushion, makes a significant difference to a person living with dementia. These items can help a person revisit a memory or just provide some comfort and happiness. “We can’t thank Sam enough for her brave fundraising efforts and it has been wonderful seeing the positive impact the sensory items have had on our residents.”
Welcome to The Bond Hotel, Blackpool THE Bond Hotel in Blackpool is a family run hotel, providing holidays for guests with physical and learning disabilities for over 30 years. Well known as the UK’s largest fully accessible hotel with everything our guests need to take a holiday or respite break.
Located within the hotel you will find every bedroom adapted to meet your mobility needs with a wide range of mobility equipment available to use during your stay. We have some incredible Turkey & Tinsel packages coming up along with our popular Abba Tribute break.
STRIVING to achieve better resident care and improve outcomes is a constant challenge, and the initial task of adopting technology can be daunting. Cura understands this and our technology and processes are designed to make the IT transformation as painless as possible, the transition as easy as possible, and the improved performance to be as durable as possible. Cura Systems is the leading innovator in care home management systems, creating the most comprehensive software in the market with the widest functionality. Cura offers an affordable suite of software applications, each built with a specific purpose that supports CQC compliance and evidence leading to improved care outcomes. You will be amazed how a
graduated, tailored for the needs of caregivers, coupled with intuitive, simple-to-use technology leaves them enthused about handling some of the major challenges they encounter day in, day out. Here are just some of the ways in which Cura makes technology work for the caregiver: n Assessing health needs and medical conditions. n Monitoring prescribed medications. n Accessibility of information at the point of care delivery. n Improvement in communication between different functions. n Planning of daily resident’s activities such as meal, shower and events. n Eliminate redundant data entry and medication error. n Improvement in resource planning and handover between shifts.
Ostley House pioneers new nurse call system OSTLEY House is a 44-room residential home that is owned by Barrow and Districts Society for the Blind. It provides support, activities and residential care for those living with dementia and visual impairment within Barrow-in-Furness and the surrounding area. Barrow and Districts Society for the Blind bought Ostley House in 1967, and all funds generated by the home are reinvested in supporting work carried out by the charity. Its extensive research, including visits to care homes throughout the UK to gain expertise in caring for those with dementia or visual impairment, has led Ostley House to become the first home of its kind to provide care for those living with a dual diagnosis of both. In 2017, the charity raised funds to replace Ostley House’s ageing nurse call with a system that could support the continued provision of exceptional care for the complex needs of its residents. Annmarie Taylor, administrator for Ostley House, said: “I’ve worked at Ostley House for nine years now and in that time, I’ve always worked with Aid Call systems. “However, the reason we decided to go with Aid Call’s new Touchsafe Pro
system was because of the knowledge and commitment of their team. From senior business development manager Stuart Barclay’s first visit, it was very clear how knowledgeable he was. “The system was not forced on us and we were never given the ‘hard sell’, it was always all about answering any questions or concerns we had, and it was that support that ensured we chose Aid Call.” Due to the challenges faced by those living with dementia and visual impairment, Ostley House must consider how every change to the environment will affect its residents. Each element of a room including the flooring, wallpaper and lighting is carefully chosen. Carl Hodge explained: “We need a nurse call system that compliments the design of our home, to ensure it fits in with everything we’re trying to achieve. “The clear and bold colours of Touchsafe Pro make it easier for our residents to identify the buttons and the simple design of the call points means they are user-friendly for everyone. “I’m so grateful for the new Aid Call system. The staff really like it, and if our staff are happy the home is running successfully.”
41
CARINGINDUSTRY NEWS
Cloud-based management system revolutionises care RECORDING at the point of care as well as having access to all the relevant information provides better decision making in any care setting. Trusted by care homes across the nation, CareDocs’ new cloud-based system has already made significant improvements to many care homes nationwide. From our web-based portal you can complete assessments, view care plans and add daily notes using any device anywhere. Each setting is provided with at least one main CareDocs system where every functionality is available.
“CareDocs has been our saviour and has assisted us to manage and maintain compliance and the quality of the person-centred care we provide, impressing our inspectors on many occasions”. Cheryl Williams, registered manager
15 per cent OFF dignified, waterproof scarf bibs from Care Designs CARE Designs’ Pashmina Scarf Style Clothes Protectors combines the look of a stylish ladies’ scarf with the waterproof practicality of a bib and so and can be worn all day with a high level of dignity. The two silk-like fabric layers on the front are highly absorbent whilst the waterproof layer on the back keeps clothes dry and has quick fastening Velcro for ease of fitting. Available in three pebble print colours and two plain colours. Get 15% OFF; use code CAREDESIGNS-CUK5 at the webshop checkout! Enquiries: Visit www.caredesigns.co.uk call 01223 840236 or email purchasing@bibetta.com for a brochure.
GHM Care launch Nexus messaging platform for care homes GHM Care has developed and launched a new messaging unit for care homes. The platform, called Nexus Care, allows staff to receive alarm notifications from any nurse call system directly on their smartphone. Care staff no longer need to run to a wall mounted console to determine the nature or severity of an alarm, alerts are colour coded and displayed according to priority. Alerts can be accepted or escalated directly from the smartphone. Nexus will connect to your existing nurse call system regardless of its age. Patient information is never stored on the staff smartphones which complies with security and patient privacy regulations. Simon Hayler, director of GHM Care, said: “Care home staff are faced with so many challenges including improving response times, communicating with family members and reacting to alarms from multiple devices.
“We are excited to introduce the Nexus Care solution, which will enhance staff accessibility, improve response times and create a quieter environment for both staff and residents. “Nexus also unlocks valuable performance and interaction data previously unavailable from older nurse call systems.” Nexus provides management reports, including response and clear times per resident, household and building statistics. Enquiries: Call 01865 367111, email simon.hayler@ghmcare.co.uk or visit www.ghmcare.co.uk
New recruits at Shackletons THIS summer has seen a number of new recruits join the Shackletons team. The new personnel bolster the company’s sales, customer services and marketing functions following the recent acquisition. First to join the business was Charlotte Hancock as regional sales manager for the North West in June. Charlotte has experience in the construction industry and sales, covering the north of England in her previous role. Next to join was Liam Cowling as the new marketing manager in July. Liam has a wealth of marketing experience, working for global
manufactures, retailers and healthcare companies. He will focus on both the contract and retail operations. Joseph Ullmann joined the business in August as the new regional sales manager for the North East. Working previously in property development, he brings a great deal of experience in property renovations to the company. August also saw the return of Jade Cox to the customer services team. Jade previously worked for Shackletons for five years before leaving. The entire team and customers are excited to have her back.
Simple solutions
SINCE 1982, Colne (Lancs) based, Richards Residential Supplies have concentrated upon supplying simple solutions to common nursing home problems. The new WACMAT® adheres strongly to this tradition. With its ultra absorbent cotton pile and 100 per cent waterproof backing, the remarkable WACMAT® is an ideal accessory where spills may occur. Used as a commode mat, in bedrooms or bathrooms, the WACMAT® ensures full carpet protection. Then, after use, simply machine wash and tumble dry! It’s that simple... The WACMAT® will then be clean and odourfree, ready to perform time and time again. Alternatively the flat-laying WACMAT® can be used as an entrance mat, saving you hundreds of pounds in rental costs alone. Enquiries: Telephone 0800 074 3749.
Girbau adds HS-6028 washer to Six Series family GIRBAU has expanded its HS 6 Series of washer extractors with the launch of a new model offering class leading production efficiency and water extraction. The HS-6028, with 28-31kg capacity, fills the gap that previously existed between the smaller HS-6024 (24kg) and larger HS-6032 (32kg) machines. The HS-6028 washer has a 280-litre drum making it ideal for larger on-premise laundries in hotels, spas and care homes as well as medium sized commercial laundries processing 28-31kg batches of linen. The new model comes with INTELI controls including Girbau’s Smart Load function, which offers additional in-use economies by automatically weighing loads and optimising water, energy and chemical consumption. The HS-6028 machine is also Wet Clean Ready, making it ideal for use as a dual-use laundry and wet cleaning machine for delicate fabrics. Washer heating options include electric, steam
The ultimate in infection control
or hot water.
Enquiries: Visit www.girbau.co.uk/ hs-6028-washer/p/51
VICKI Wilson, national trainer for Beaucare® Medical, was invited to showcase the CareClean™ range at the Lancashire County Council infection control conference, which was attended by NHS Nurses and Carers. The specialised chemical cleaning range, which garnered a lot of attention at the conference, is formulated to BS EN 1276 and BS EN 13704 standard and is designed to simplify any healthcare facility’s chemical usage. Approved by NHS Infection Control, the range features colour coded labelling to minimise the risk of cross-contamination and to help ensure that the
right product is being used correctly. Beaucare’s Versan Disinfectant for Disease Control is an ideal accompaniment. It is a broad spectrum hard surface disinfectant and is effective against C.Difficile spores, Norovirus, MRSA and more. Beaucare provides free support materials and national training, offering instruction on minimising the risk of cross-contamination and guidance on cost effective application and dosing. Enquiries: Call 01423 873666, email sales@beaucare.com or visit www.beaucare.com
42
CARINGINDUSTRY NEWS
Get fresh ideas and advice at Care Roadshow Cardiff THE Care Roadshows team are gearing up for the show’s return to the valleys in October, when Care Roadshow Cardiff will make its return to Cardiff City Stadium. Attracting care home professionals from across Wales and the South West, the event will provide the opportunity to source new products and services, attend CPD seminars and workshops from industry leaders, and network with peers from the care community. Opening on Tuesday October 23, Care Roadshow Cardiff, sponsored by Quality Compliance Systems, will give residential and home care professionals the chance to benefit from one-to-one advice sessions and hear from leading associations such as Care Inspectorate Wales and Care Forum Wales, who will discuss the current challenges facing care providers and how best to address them. Alongside free CPD seminars running throughout the day, visitors will also be able to discover new ideas from interactive workshops hosted by care business experts, Oomph! Wellness, who will run two engaging sessions to get involved
in – providing great tips for driving social interaction and mental stimulation, and exploring ways to incorporate meaningful exercise and physical activities into your setting. The wide range of exhibitors at the event will showcase everything from catering and cleaning equipment, pharmacy services, and care management systems to staff training programmes and the latest innovations in care technology. Companies confirmed to exhibit include Boots Care Services, apetito, Beaucare Medical, Social Care Wales and many more. All visitors to the event will also be automatically entered into a prize draw to win £100 in cash on the day. Tickets for Care Roadshow Cardiff are free and are available via the website. Improve the lives of the people in your care and get inspired on October 23 – save the date in your calendar today. The final stop of the year for Care Roadshows in 2018 will be at Epsom Downs Racecourse in London on November 13.
ACCOUNTANCY SAVVY!
Our goal is to work with you to carefully assess your personal or business requirements with the ultimate aim of reducing your tax liability – evaluating your needs and offering expert advice where and when you need it in a professional albeit informal environment.
With our unique understanding of the Care Home Business, we can assist in the following ways:
• Start-up business advice • Advice & assistance with the purchase or sale if applicable. • Tax • Preparation and analysis of financial statements. • Bookkeeping and payroll services • Sales invoice preparation and monthly analysis for credit payments • Tax planning strategies. • Understanding service user funding • VAT (if applicable) • Business succession planning.
JER ACCOUNTS SERVICE
7 St Pauls Yard, Silver Street, Newport Pagnell, Bucks, MK16 0EG tel: 01908 210666 Email:jane@jeras.org.uk mobile: 07956 917591
Data in the Cloud – instant access anywhere ... MANY building systems collect data based on simple activity, however this does not provide beneficial insights without spending a great deal of time collating the information. One such solution which is a standard fitment in every care or nursing home and every hospital is the nurse call system. Once a simple button and bell alarm, modern systems can be an important management tool, providing insights into the health and security of residents and the effectiveness of staff and processes. Since we can retrieve raw alarm data from most modern nurse call systems, how can we make better use of this information; make it easier to find, more manageable and therefore more likely to provide the management impetus for positive change? At Courtney Thorne we understand the trials and tribulations of managing a residential care home, where time and resources are scarce and keeping a check on residents and staff is a daily challenge. A typical reporting tool in some nurse call solutions allows staff to retrieve data on everything that the system has recorded. However as with any data, further work is required in order to see trends, create meaningful reports and provide evidential information. Most Courtney Thorne customers, however, can benefit from the addition of the CT Cloud to their existing system. Now in the same way that data can be shared across an organisation, nurse call system alarm data can also be made available directly to those authorised to see it. On a regular basis, all the stored alarm information from your Courtney Thorne system is uploaded
to the secure CT Cloud. Then once a day an email is sent to authorised staff with an updated report already formatted to include a whole host of reporting parameters. Using the CT Cloud dashboard, no matter if you are responsible for one home or 50 homes you will instantly be able to see and compare homes, shifts, call types, and response times, including those that exceed your specified tolerances. The next time you have a CQC audit and are asked if response times are acceptable, you can immediately provide graphs, averages, best and worst times going back as long as necessary. Should a resident’s family complain about long waiting times, you can drill down to a day, a room and a person and find out exactly if a problem exists. This data can then be shared via email with the family as evidence of the level of service your home provides. Sometimes other influences will affect response times, this could be staff sickness, overwork, or particularly demanding residents. Rather than relying on unsubstantiated claims, an instant reference to accurate information on all activity can be used to justify decisions or to back up arguments for additional resources. Courtney Thorne’s CT Cloud service costs less than £1.45 per day, can be paid for by a simple monthly direct debit with no set-up charges. Our customers who already use CT Cloud data have found that not only does it result in enhanced services to residents, relieve staff tensions and create a more efficient home with happier residents and staff, but efficiencies have resulted in cost savings too.
A NEW FOCUS ON DESIGN AND SERVICE
NEW COLLECTIONS LAUNCHING AT THE CARE SHOW
JOIN US AT THE CARE SHOW 17TH – 18TH OCTOBER NEC BIRMINGHAM STAND F22 To find out more call: 01924 868 470 For more information visit: shackletonsltd.co.uk