Caring UK September 2017

September 2017

no.251 • £4.75 incorporating

The Number One magazine for the care sector

Judging team revealed for first awards

Care homes and NHS could work better together

By Dominic Musgrave RESEARCH has identified how the NHS and care homes can work better together to deliver high quality, cost-effective healthcare to the half million people in residential care.

Healthcare provision to residents in care homes across England is often ‘erratic and inequitable’, the three-year study led by the University of Hertfordshire, funded by the National Institute of Health Research, has found.

The Optimal study found a narrow focus by NHS decision makers on care homes as a drain on resources, rather than as a solution, can result in short-term interventions that compromise relationships between NHS and care home staff, and affect care home staff confidence in being able to meet residents’ health needs.

The study, involving seven UK universities, analysed the impact of different approaches by the NHS in providing healthcare to people living in care homes across England and identified several examples of successful partnership working between NHS and care homes.

However it concluded that high quality healthcare provision to care homes can only be achieved nationwide if close collaboration between the NHS and care homes becomes part of the ‘landscape of

care’. This means ensuring, through targeted investment, that visiting healthcare professionals and care home staff are given the opportunity to work closely together to identify, plan and implement care protocols.

Lead author Professor Claire Goodman from the University of Hertfordshire’s Centre for Research in Primary and Community Care, said: “It is essential that residents in care homes – some of the oldest and frailest in society – have access to healthcare that is equitable and equivalent to those received by older people living at home.

“The Optimal study shows what needs to be in place for this to happen and found many examples of effective integrated working.

“Across England, however, access to healthcare for care home residents continues to be highly unpredictable.”

“There is an unrelentingly negative narrative in the public consciousness around bad care in care homes.

“Yet with 460,000 people living in UK care homes, occupying three times the number of NHS hospital beds, care homes should be seen as an integral and important part of the health and social care system.” n Do you agree with the report?

Email dm@scriptmedia.co.uk or call us on 01226 734407 with your opinions.

National maritime charity the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society welcomed actress and animal rights activist Virginia McKenna to Belvedere House, as part of its Carers Week celebrations.

Virginia, who is best known for her role in ‘Born Free’ and her work as a big cat conservationist, met with residents at its Banstead nursing care home to swap stories of the stage and screen for tales from the sea. She was given a tour of the care home’s facilities and spoke to many of the residents, tenants and staff members to learn more about the care the Society provides to former seafarers, their widows and dependants.

WE can reveal the expert panel of judges with the tough task of picking the inaugural winners of the Caring UK Awards in partnership with Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank.

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 and renowned adult social care consultant John Kennedy will choose the winners in 15 categories, which will be presented at a glittering ceremony at the National Railway Museum in York on December 8.

Awards include Care Home of the Year, Volunteer Team of the Year and Activities Team of the Year.

Other categories include Best Innovation in Care, Best Outdoor Environment and Care Employer of the Year. Nominations have now closed, however, but full details of the event can be found at www.caringukawards.co.uk Caring UK editor Dominic Musgrave said: “We’re really pleased with the response we’ve seen to this year’s first Caring UK Awards, and are now busy putting the shortlist together.

The standard of entries we have received has been fantastic.

“We’re also delighted that four of the leading lights in the care sector have agreed to take on the unenviable task of picking the winners.”

Details of the evening’s presenters will be revealed in due course.

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CARINGNEWS

Warrington care home residents discover a shared love of poetry

By Dominic Musgrave A POETRY group at Golborne House near Warrington is proving popular with residents.

The group is bringing people together through a new-found love of verse, stimulating discussion and rekindling old memories.

One resident has even been contributing her own compositions.

The poetry group at the Minster-run care home, which is dubbed ‘Poetry Corner’, meets every Monday in a lounge. Members of the group take it in turns to read poetry before discussing the poems and their themes.

The group, led by activities coordinator Elizabeth Bates, is organised in association with The Reader; a charitable organisation which aims to improve people’s lives by connecting them with literature.

The charity organises reading groups nationwide, in a variety of establishments,

Barbara Harvey (Golborne House resident), Elizabeth Bates (activities coordinator) and Mary Brookes (Golborne House resident and the author of poems which the group have been reading). including care homes, schools, workplaces and even prisons. Elizabeth underwent training to become a registered facilitator before founding the group at Golborne House.

She was initially unsure about whether the poetry

group would be popular with residents. In fact, the first session began slowly, with participants hesitant to contribute their thoughts.

However, it only took a few prompts from Elizabeth, regarding themes and features of the poems, to

ignite a conversation and for the group to become animated and engaged.

Elizabeth said: “I have been amazed by the way residents have engaged with the group and the energising effect it has had on our members.

It gives me a real buzz to organise. The group has also been a great reminiscence tool, as residents remember poems from their past and frequently bring them in for the group to read. It evokes lots of memories and emotions. It’s been a joy to be able to read the wonderful poetry written by Mary too.”

Favourite poems have included works by Wordsworth, Samuel Daniels and John Masefield.

The discussions have a stimulating effect on residents, and people talk about the sessions for many days afterwards.

Elizabeth said the poems often evoke memories for participants and in this way the meetings are like a form of reminiscence therapy.

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CARINGNEWS

New managers at Perthshire homes

Staff from Simonsfield care home at the top of Snowdon.

Care home staff’s Snowdon climb raises over £1,000 STAFF from a Runcorn care home scaled Snowdon and raised over £1,000 for those living with dementia.

The sponsored walk to the peak of Wales’ highest mountain, at 1,085m, was tackled by staff from Simonsfield.

They include Alex Groundwater, Alison Clifton and her daughter Lucy, Beverley Stubbs, Liam Nelson, Liam Mulholland, Carla Burnet, Olivia Mercer, Katie Evans, Gemma Johnson, Cary Nicholls, Debbie Jones and her daughter Megan.

The sponsorship funds will be used to buy sensory equipment for residents living with dementia at the specialist care home.

The equipment helps stimulate memory through familiar sound, smell and touch – providing a therapeutic effect for those with the condition.

Home manager Debbie Smith said: “The group did great and we’re all so proud of them. They’ve raised an amazing amount of money, which will go a long way to providing additional equipment for our residents with dementia.

“Alongside the staff, I’d like to thank little ones Lucy and Megan for taking part as well. Their amazing efforts will benefit so many residents at Simonsfield.”

TWO of Balhousie Care Group’s Perthshire homes have welcomed new managers.

Pamela McAllister has taken up the post of home manager at Crieff-based Balhousie Dalnaglar Care Home and Angela Parnell has been introduced as the new home manager at Balhousie’s Pitlochry Care Home.

Angela joined Pitlochry after re-locating from Somerset, where she managed a private elderly care home.

She also brings with her experience from her nine years with Capability Scotland in an area operations manager role.

Angela is particularly looking forward to working alongside Perth and Kinross Council and the Care Inspectorate to implement the Care About Physical Activity initiative within the home. The programme is designed to build on the skills, knowledge and confidence of staff to enable those they care for to increase their levels of physical activity and move more often.

“I’m already working with some of my contacts at Capability Scotland to find opportunities for our residents to utilise their resources, such as the hydrapool that is completely accessible for our residents,” she said. “There are many little things that we can do that will all have a huge impact on the wellbeing of our

Angela Parnell residents. There’s a great team here at Pitlochry and ‘m looking forward to working with the local community to build on our local partnerships.”

Pamela stepped into the role of home manager at 39-bed Dalnaglar after joining Balhousie Care Group two months ago, bringing with her a wealth of experience from previous roles in the care industry.

She said: “I’m very excited to have joined Dalnaglar as the home manager and look forward to working together with the existing team to help grow the team and welcome new residents into a personalised environment within the home.

“I’m especially looking forward to looking for new and unique activities for our residents to enjoy, which will enhance the standard of care and create a happy home for our residents to live.”

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CARINGNEWS

Providers tell the CQC: ‘we want to improve’

Residents of Belong Crewe Ray Knott, George Barber, Irene Egersdorff and Rose Page with students of Oaks Academy High School Cameron and Brendon.

Back to school for Village’s residents and customers RESIDENTS and customers at Belong Crewe care village rolled back the decades to find themselves in a classroom setting, taking part in a special science lesson.

The session was organised with the local Oaks Academy High School, which sent along pupils from years seven and eight, accompanied by their science teacher, Ash Scott, and their English teacher, Claire Hall.

Belong residents and visitors were invited to take part in a number of science experiments, including building and launching rockets, measuring lung capacity and understanding buoyancy.

Residents and Oaks Academy pupils gathered in groups to carry out the

experiments under the watchful eye of Ash, and recorded their observations and results. The grand finale involved the groups making a paper rocket and seeing whose travelled furthest when launched.

Sharon Bull, experience coordinator at Belong Crewe, said: “Everyone really enjoyed the event and it generated much discussion about science – one man, who used to be a senior scientific officer at the Met Office, got very involved.

“The classroom scenario also prompted much laughter and jokes about ‘going back to school’. Given its success, we’re planning to hold more events like this to take place in the future.”

SOCIAL care providers have told a leading sector regulator they are committed to driving up standards but are being hampered by funding shortages and the ability to recruit nursing and care staff.

Members of the Independent Care Group, meeting at their AGM in York, told Andrea Sutcliffe, CQC chief inspector of adult social care, that the biggest challenge they now faced was recruitment.

The AGM followed CQC’s latest report on the state of social care, which revealed that 79 per cent of adult social care services in England were ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ but 21 per cent were ‘requiring improvement’ or ‘inadequate’.

Mike Padgham, the Group’s chair, said too much attention went on to the 21 per cent needing improvement or inadequate and not enough on the rest that were good or outstanding.

He said: “We are not saying that there are not some very unsuitable people in social care. We want them caught and stopped from providing care. But they are a tiny minority.”

He said all providers “got a kicking they didn’t deserve” because of the failings of a few. This was harming the recruitment of carers and nursing staff as it hit morale in the sector.

“So here’s the thing – everyone wants there to be social care services for people when they need it – but the

Mike Padgham relentless demonising of social care prevents us from recruiting enough of the good people we need,” he added.

“The 79 per cent who are working hard to create a caring culture get tarred with the same brush as people who should not be working in social care. I want to say how proud I am of the care services I know. How proud I am of the people here who go the extra mile. And I know how proud you are of your services and your staff.”

Andrea said she shared providers’ frustration that good care did not get the publicity it deserved, and agreed that recruitment was a challenge.

After the AGM, Mike said there had been consensus that challenges lay ahead and that everyone had to work together to drive up standards.

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CARINGNEWS

Research shows confusion around cost of social care

By Dominic Musgrave

Disney and Nickelodeon cartoon characters made a special appearance at a Widnes care home summer fayre. The event was also attended by Halton’s Mayor, Councillor Alan Lowe, alongside residents, staff, friends and family of Halton View. A soft play area, glitter tattoos, seaside games such as splat the staff, a BBQ and stalls all attracted a top turnout for the beach-themed fayre. Marshall the dog from Nickelodeon’s Paw Patrol and Disney’s Minnie Mouse kept the children entertained, while parents, residents and staff enjoyed the sunny weather. The annual event raises funds for day trips throughout the year for the home’s residents.

NEW research from Anchor – England’s largest not-for-profit care and housing provider for older people – has revealed widespread confusion around the cost of social care with the majority of people wanting stronger State support.

Following the recent public spotlight on social care and the debate around a so-called ‘dementia tax’, Anchor has anticipated the government’s planned consultation to gauge public opinion on social care.

The research shows the need for the government to transform its rhetoric into clear policies that address the social care crisis and allow the UK’s ageing population and younger generations to plan for their futures. n 14 per cent are currently saving for their care needs in later life. This is 22 per cent less than how many were saving for care when Anchor asked in 2015. n 72 per cent worry they will not be able to pay for the cost of their own care, with 76 per cent of 16-34 year olds thinking the same. n Two-thirds (68 per cent) worry they will not be able to afford decent care for their relatives; this jumps to 82 per cent when asking 16-34 year olds.

Jane Ashcroft n 22 per cent wrongly believe that the state pays entirely for your care needs in later life, with this figure increasing to 33 per cent for those age 16-34.

The public want state funding for

care and would like the government to introduce a social care cap, as recommended by the Dilnot Commission on future funding of care and support in England: n 70 per cent believe there should be a cap on social care costs. n Almost half (47 per cent) believe social care, including dementia care, should always be paid for by the state. n More than half (52 per cent) believe average social care costs are under £30,000 a year (in reality it’s £31,200 to £36,008). n 29 per cent believe average costs are just £20,000 a year.

Jane Ashcroft, chief executive of Anchor, said: “These statistics demonstrate successive governments have glossed over the social care crisis for too long.

“The failures of government to commit to a plan that meets the needs of our ageing population and future generations are now felt by all – by those let down by the health and social care sectors and those left illprepared and worried about funding their future and that of loved ones.

“Since the election, the government has been quiet on social care but it’s paramount that its reform does not get lost among the long list of priorities.”

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CARINGNEWS

Veronica ‘overwhelmed’ at award win

By Dominic Musgrave

A SHINING star from Sanctuary Care who embodies true kindness has been awarded for the care and compassion she shows her residents and team.

Veronica McCleary, manager at The Manse Residential Care Home in South Norwood, London, was crowned overall winner of Sanctuary Group’s Employee of the Year awards after beating hundreds of nominees.

Veronica, who was “overwhelmed” and in “total shock”, said: “When I arrived back to the home my team and residents were over the moon, they were overwhelmed with joy.

“It was such a shock to receive the award – I just sat there and thought ‘did that really just happen’.”

The accolade follows her win of Sanctuary Care’s annual Kindness Awards, which celebrate the kindness of its staff and residents and support the ethos of ‘Keeping kindness at the heart of our care’.

The award was given to Veronica after she and her team safely evacuated 33 residents from The Manse, where she has worked for 25 years, following a power failure in May 2016.

With the support of fellow colleagues, her residents were safely and temporarily rehomed at Sanctuary Care’s Meadow View Residential Care Home in Kent and Time Court Residential and Nursing Home in London.

Veronica with Mark McCarthy, group director – care for Sanctuary Care.

Veronica was a tower of strength to myself but my team too. What they her residents, making the move as did was just a natural reaction and smooth as possible, offering continual they wouldn’t have done it any other kindness and reassurance. way.

And for her staff she did everything “The award is not just for myself, it’s she could to support them, personally for the team because without their driving them to and from their support I would never have achieved accommodation and buying them what I have done. It’s amazing and I clothes and toiletries. feel very appreciated.”

Following the latest win she said: Mark McCarthy, group director – “You do these things without thinking care, added: “When we created the and this is recognition for not only Kindness Awards I was really pleased

because I knew fantastic stories would be identified about passionate staff and residents who make a difference.

“I am incredibly proud that Veronica has gone on to also win the very first of Sanctuary Group’s annual Employee of the Year Awards too. It’s a reflection of the work Sanctuary Care does and I am really pleased for her. I hope this inspires other people to nominate colleagues in the future.”

CARINGNEWS

Bag pack raises more than £800 for charity A ST Helens supermarket charity bag pack has raised hundreds of pounds for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Staff from four care homes across the North West spent the day on the checkouts at Morrisons helping customers with their packing.

The generous shoppers donated a total of £835.59 – with all proceeds going towards research and support for those living with dementia.

Staff from four Hill Care Group homes took part, including: n Halton View Care Home, Sadler Street, Widnes. n Alderwood Care Home, Simpson Road, Worsley. n Simonsfield Care Home, Boston Avenue, Runcorn. n Lever Edge Care Home, Lever Edge Lane, Bolton.

The funds will add to Hill Care’s year-long campaign for the charity, which has helped raise over £5,000 so far, with homes across the north of England all contributing.

The campaign will culminate in a 330-mile cycle ride from London to Paris by Hill Care managing director Wendy Waddicor, who also took part in the bag pack.

She said: “The Morrisons bag pack in St Helens was a huge success, helping us to exceed our original target of raising £5,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society.

“I’d like to thank the staff at all four of our homes in the North West for taking part. It was a long day at the checkouts but worth it when you think we raised so much for a charity so close to all our hearts.”

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CARINGNEWS

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Brunelcare’s Robinson House in Stockwood, South Bristol, held a ‘food festival’ afternoon to celebrate the cultural diversity of the care home’s residents and staff.

Friends and carers were invited to join in the cultural celebration by bringing food and music CDs along to the party that represented their family’s country of origin. Everyone enjoyed a variety of musical entertainment and foodie treats at what turned out to be a multi-national party. Joy White, manager at Robinson House, said: “People forget how culturally diverse somewhere like a care home can be. We find that our mixed backgrounds and cultures lead to us having an exciting and stimulating environment to live and work in. It’s definitely something to be proud of and celebrate.”

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DEMENTIA is personal and individual. Each person living with dementia experiences it differently.

Alzheimer’s Society’s most popular course ‘Step inside dementia’ will help you see the world as a person with dementia does.

You will receive practical tools that help build positive relationships and develop deeper empathy for people living with dementia.

The one-day training programme looks at how dementia damages the brain and affects the person.

You will learn approaches that will help you to care for a person with dementia as an individual rather than their condition.

We also explore how the ageing process affects the senses with an emphasis on how to communicate well with a person with dementia.

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CARINGNEWS

Deputy Mayor reopens home following refurb

Rose Hill Nursing Home in Dorking braved the summer downpours as it held its annual summer party for residents, their families and friends. The theme this year was ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and lots of work had been put in beforehand, making costumes, artwork, a rainbow and even a yellow brick road. Weekend cook Rowena prepared a buffet lunch for around 100 people. She has worked at Rose Hill for 25 years and was presented with a silver bracelet and a bouquet of flowers to mark the occasion.

Rose Hill owners Mr and Mrs Chahal are pictured presenting cook Rowena with a bouquet of flowers.

Hundreds flock to online hub CARE home supplier Cairn Care has seen hundreds of staff visit its free online training hub over recent months.

Designed to help support staff training in the areas of infection control, first aid and dignity in care, it is packed with useful fact sheets, guides and posters which can be downloaded for use in the care home.

To support the training hub, the Cairn Care website also hosts an online blog to give greater

information on effective infection control, as well as news about wider issues affecting the UK care sector.

Peter Binns, managing director at Cairn Care, said: “Although we designed www.cairncare.co.uk as an easy portal for care homes to buy products and keep a record of their order history, we also wanted it to be a useful training resource to help educate their staff, so it is good to see that happening.”

THE Oaks Care Home was officially reopened by the Deputy Mayor of Colchester, Councillor Peter Chillingworth, with residents, relatives and members of the local community celebrating with an afternoon of canapes, cream teas, champagne and live music.

The Oaks, which is home to 61 local residents, underwent a six-month £1.2m refurbishment programme earlier this year, with designers drawing inspiration from the residents and their loved ones in an effort to make sure the new interior design represented the tastes of the people who live there. Residents were encouraged to choose the decoration for their bedrooms, the lounge, and the dining areas.

The home, which is now one of the area’s most luxurious and advanced care centres, offers a modern and homely setting, complemented by spacious, well maintained grounds, originally designed by renowned gardener and author, Beth Chatto.

Her granddaughter, Julia Boulton, also attended the official relaunch event.

As well as a new care environment, residents can also enjoy pampering sessions at the new on-site beauty salon, eat food in their sophisticated new dining room, and can kick back and relax in their cinema room.

The range of care services on offer

Deputy Mayor of Colchester, Councillor Peter Chillingworth, prepares to cut the ribbon at The Oaks. has also been expanded, with The Oaks able to provide independent living, palliative, respite and convalescent care and support.

Louise Baxter, home manager at the New Century Care owned home, said: “This is the beginning of an exciting new stage in The Oaks’ history. Since opening in 1995 we have strived to provide the very best care at the heart of the local community.

“This revamp will allow us to continue to do this in a modern but welcoming and homely environment for our residents and their families.

The new services in particular have been a huge hit, with residents enjoying seeing all their favourite films in our new cinema, or being pampered in the beauty salon.”

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CARINGNEWS

Improve safety with electronic medicines management ...

PREVENTING medication errors is a high priority for care homes given that 70 per cent of residents are exposed to a medication error1 and the subsequent potential harm and cost.

There is growing evidence that the use of technology is a key component to preventing medication errors.

Care Control, with their complete electronic care management system, have recently launched a solution for better medicines management to help care homes meet regulations and reduce the risk of a resident being harmed.

The new Care Control eMAR, with

its comprehensive inbuilt tools, helps reduce administration and recording errors such as incomplete information, dosage errors and medication omissions.

The system gives managers visibility to instantly view and oversee medicines management to quickly identify and resolve administration errors.

There are safeguards in place with alerts to medication errors, for example overdose checks for all medication types and late medication is alerted to management.

(1) Alldred, D.P et al. (2009) Care Home Use of Medicines Study

‘Beauty and the Beast’ float is a great success RESIDENTS of Lyncroft Care Home in Wisbech took part in the annual Rose Fair Parade with a ‘Beauty and the Beast’ themed float.

Many residents at Lyncroft are local to the town and have enjoyed attending Rose Fair for many years.

Staff at the care home worked tirelessly to create the float for the residents, with family members drafted in to create costumes, build props and decorate the float.

Residents dressed up as characters from the book, with Madaline Medler (89) as Belle and Cecil Hole (89) as Beast. Others were Gaston, Lumiere, Cogsworth and Mrs Potts and Chip, with local children helping out too.

Wellbeing and activities coordinators Jennifer Judge and Rebecca Cooper created the float and organised the costumes and props.

Care staff were also on board the float to take care of residents and wave to the crowds.

Home manager Jan Davison said: “The team gave up lots of their spare time to create the float and make this a really special experience for our residents. We were thrilled to be involved and it was a fantastic opportunity for our residents to feel right at the heart of the community here in Wisbech.

“Residents were supported and cheered on by families, friends and neighbours who came to watch.

They loved waving to the crowds and people in the crowd were clapping as our residents went past, which was quite emotional.”

Rose Fair began in 1963 when local growers sold rose buds in the church gardens to raise funds for the restoration of St Peter and St Paul’s Church, which dates back to Norman times. Rose growing is still a specialty of the area and the flower festival continues to raise money to maintain the fabric of the Church.

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CARINGNEWS

Your care management needs covered with ZURI ZURI, the mobile, web-based care management solution developed

by Care Software Solutions, has added a rostering platform as well an eMAR system to its suite of solutions, making ZURI the most comprehensive care management solution in the care industry today.

ZURI Rostering creates a consolidated, end-to-end staff management solution allowing managers to more efficiently manage staffing schedules, taking into account and matching client and staff requirements and preferences with staff skills sets.

Newly implemented ZURI eMAR, streamlines the medication administration process by providing nurses and carers with real-time access to medication schedules, prescribed doses, improved legibility and instantaneous alerts that notify them of potential medication safety

concerns, such as missed doses and signatures. Although ZURI has grown into a comprehensive care management solution, at the heart of the organisation remains personalised care planning.

ZURI Care Planning brings together all the vital features that carers need into one centralised, digital location allowing them to do their job much more efficiently, spending less time documenting and more time on what is important – caring for their clients.

Managers are better able to securely manage and personalise client care planning and monitor care delivery remotely.

ZURI’s unique suite of services creates a truly end-to-end care management solution, from HR and recruitment, rostering, time and attendance, and care planning, through to facilitating billing and payroll.

New MP visits for farm day THE Oaken Holt estate welcomed four-legged friends as well as relatives and other visitors for the much-loved farm day.

Farms2ewe visited the estate, bringing with them a Shetland pony, ducks, rabbits, goats and lambs.

There were also craft stalls, games and refreshments as well as face

painting for the children.

New MP for Oxford West and Abingdon Layla Moran took the opportunity to visit the estate, touring both Oaken Holt and Wytham care homes, as well as getting up close and personal with some of the visiting animals and chatting to residents and staff.

Sarah Compton with resident captain Waltraud Field, home manager Gabor Benke and Alison Hearle.

Care residents set sail on culinary cruise ...

WORLDWIDE holiday destinations are being created in style through taste, sound and crafts when residents embark on a virtual cruise across Shropshire and Cheshire care homes this summer.

The Grand Explorer cruise day theme brings the flavours of China, Norway and the USA to Morris Care’s six homes for a memorable day for staff, residents and their families.

Each resident was asked to pick three countries they would like to visit, with the results providing the chosen destinations for the cruise.

The holiday celebrations feature Chinese arts and crafts, a gala lunch and cocktails and photographs with the captain – played by a member of staff or a resident at each home.

Entertainers perform show favourites for an afternoon on Broadway to end the event on a high note.

Morris Care’s chefs have devised a three-course menu inspired by the countries visited. The ‘passengers’ can choose from a range of dishes.

The main course options featured Norwegian meatballs, American-style steak and steamed tilapia with ginger, soy sauce and rice wine.

It was the third summer cruise series for the homes following the success of Mediterranean and Caribbean days in previous years Organiser Sarah Compton said: “Family and friends join our residents for the events and enter into the spirit of the occasion. It is a popular theme because it captures the imagination and triggers memories of past holidays.

“Many of our residents are well travelled and it is lovely to hear them share their stories and reminisce about the places they have seen.”

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CARINGNEWS

Christine to retire after 30 years

The indoor dementia garden at Balhousie Clement Park Care Home.

Home shortlisted for Dementia Award

By Dominic Musgrave

BALHOUSIE Clement Park Care Home has been shortlisted in the ‘Best Innovation in Continuing Care’ category at this year’s prestigious Scottish Dementia Awards.

The Dundee facility has been recognised for its innovation in creating an ‘Indoor Dementia Garden’ for residents.

The multi-sensory experience has been designed for those who are unable to access the garden within the home and for use during colder months to improve communication, inclusion and sensory experiences.

The concept for the garden was first initiated late last year when Clement Park’s two dementia ambassadors looked at utilising empty areas within the home in a way that was unique

from the other spaces and improved the overall environment for the residents. They began raising money to help fund the project by holding bake sales and raffles.

The ‘Indoor Dementia Garden’ was completed in January. There is a selection of essential oils to give the smell of outdoors and gardens and the music player plays out bird music to add to the illusion of being outside.

Small items placed on the walls, such as birds and butterflies, help give residents something to focus on and, with the introduction of more seating, more residents can enjoy the area while also socialising with each other.

Margaret Stephen, home manager at Balhousie Clement Park Care Home, added: “The indoor dementia garden has provided such a positive

contribution to the home, ensuring that residents who may be limited by their mobility can still retain some independence when it comes to enjoying an outdoor setting.

“This was a real team effort, with staff, residents and families all working together to help create a vision for the garden.

“I’m delighted by the shortlisting, it shows just how much the team here work together to go above and beyond within the home.”

Other personalisation initiatives at Clement Park include a library area, a bird watching area and a focus on personalisation within the residents’ bedrooms.

The awards ceremony will take place on World Alzheimer’s Day, September 21, at The Marriot, Glasgow.

A 30-YEAR veteran of the care sector has retired after leading a successful care home in Stockton-onTees.

Christine Reason recently brought her career to a close when staff, residents, families and friends of the home marked the occasion with a party.

She has been home manager at Hill Care Group’s Mandale House Care Home for over six years.

Christine started her career as a nursing home carer but handed in her notice after just two weeks.

While working her six-week notice period she changed her mind.

“I didn’t give it enough time initially and I began to love my job,” Christine said. “I found providing care was very rewarding and gave me a great sense of accomplishment.

“I am proud of my time as home manager of Mandale House. But mostly I’m proud of our residents and their families knowing their loved ones are safe and happy.”

She retires at the age of 67 to spend time with her husband and their family.

19

CARINGNEWS

Two residents and the activities organiser from Priory Court Care Home attended Ewell Village Residents Association’s 90th tea party. All local residents who were in their 90s were invited to join the special tea party in the High Street together with partners and carers. Ewell Village Residents Association represents the interests of residents and businesses in Ewell Village and the immediate surrounding area. Staffed by a combination of local councillors, a county councillor and local residents, Priory Court’s residents were delighted to be invited along to celebrate this special occasion with the association and had a wonderful time joining everyone in the local community.

Charity celebrates year NATIONAL maritime charity, the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, celebrated more than 50 years of service from two of its longest serving trustees at its AGM in London.

David Gundry, vice chairman of the Society, and trustee, Captain Malcolm Lowle, who have now retired from the Society, served Royal Alfred for 27 years and 24 years respectively.

The Right Honourable the Viscount Cobham, president of the Society, presided over the charity’s AGM at Trinity House in London as residents, tenants, volunteers and staff joined the charity’s board of management to mark the occasion.

The Society acknowledged the significant contribution of David and

Malcolm as two of its longest serving trustees, as well as the achievements of other members of staff and volunteers.

The AGM also allowed the charity to reflect on another successful year, with home occupancy levels at around 97 per cent.

Royal Alfred chief executive, Commander Brian Boxall-Hunt, said: “The 2017 AGM was a great event enjoyed by residents, tenants, staff, members, and trustees of the Society.

“We were able to announce significant changes to the charity including the retirement of two of our longest serving trustees and reflect on the achievements of the previous year.”

Amanda Woodvine, chief executive of Vegetarian for Life, Terisa Kelly, chef at Morgana Court and Stuart Davies, home manager of Morgana Court.

Group honoured for its cuisine THE SilverCrest Group has been honoured for its commitment to vegetarian cuisine amongst the food it serves to residents.

The provider’s Morgana Court in South Wales received a special award for being the 1,000th care home in the UK to be accepted onto the Vegetarian for Life scheme.

Established to improve the lives of older vegetarians and vegans, the charity’s work includes the compilation of a UK directory of care facilities and food suppliers that follow its best practice guidelines.

The award was presented to the care home by chief executive of Vegetarian for Life, Amanda Woodvine.

Accepting the award, Stuart

Davies, Morgana Court Care Home manager, said: “Providing tasty, nutritious meals that meet our residents’ dietary preferences is at the heart of everything we do at our homes.

“This naturally includes people who are vegetarian or vegan, and people who simply like these dishes.

“We congratulate Vegetarian for Life on the success of their campaign and we are honoured that Morgana Court is the 1000th care home to be registered in this important initiative.”

In total, the SilverCrest Group provides residential care to over 300 residents with homes across South and West Wales in Ystradgynlais, Bridgend, Pontypridd, Williamstown and Ystrad Pentre.

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CARINGCATERING, FOOD AND NUTRITION

It’s good with Gompels GOMPELS HealthCare Ltd provides their customers with the service they deserve.

From next day delivery to free online tools, they offer much more than your standard supplier.

How you may ask?

COSHH library allows their customers to download COSHH datasheets all from one place, for products they’ve ordered.

COSHH library saves their customers time, and makes sure they are compliant.

Another great feature that Gompels has is its Risk Assessment wizard.

This wizard allows customers to create risk assessments in as little as three minutes.

The clever software pulls the important information from the COSHH datasheet so they don’t have to go hunting through datasheets.

What’s more, Gompels Analytics allows customers to monitor spend, without the need for paperwork and invoices.

Analytics has many features and also allows customers with more than one site to compare spend.

In addition, Gompels customers are also able to keep track of their spend by setting alerts.

These alerts will notify them if a site orders over a certain value, comes within a certain percentage of their budget, or even order too many of a product.

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22

CARINGCATERING, FOOD AND NUTRITION Advertiser’s announcement

Don’t get caught out without a kitchen contingency plan PKL, the UK’s leading temporary and modular kitchen infrastructure specialist, has warned care homes not to neglect a continuity plan for their kitchen – or they risk being unable to feed their residents.

The summer months are always busy for PKL – but this year the number of emergency hires has increased significantly.

Healthcare providers and particularly care homes have come to the company looking for kitchen facilities when the worst has happened.

Happily PKL has had the capacity to find a solution quickly for all its clients this year, but it has prompted a call from chief executive Lee Vines for care homes to put some time into planning for the worst ahead of time.

He said it was also important for care homes to have plans in place for refurbishments, reducing the chances of problems with temporary replacement facilities.

Lee added that there are a number of key benefits to having a kitchen continuity plan in place: n It ensures you and your kitchen staff have a clear strategy and know exactly who to contact in the case of a kitchen closure.

n Planning in advance offers a significant time saving by establishing a potential site for temporary facilities to be located, identify any access challenges, and ascertain a suitable size and layout (including suitable equipment) to ensure that an appropriate kitchen can be in place as quickly as possible if ever needed.

n It significantly shortens kitchen downtime.

“I’d urge all care providers, and especially care homes with vulnerable residents with complicated needs, to create a continuity plan for their kitchen facilities,” he said.

“Think about what would happen if your kitchen was affected by a

fire, flood or major equipment failure. How would your business or organisation be impacted? What if your kitchen needed to close for refurbishment or if planned works overran?

“Ensuring business continuity during both planned and emergency kitchen closure is hugely important and, happily, creating a plan is easier than you might imagine.

“We and a number of other companies offer a kitchen continuity planning service, where we’ll take details of your current catering operation and produce a custom backup plan for you. Whoever you use and however you do it, start thinking now about what you would do in the event of a breakdown – it will save you heartache later on.

“We offer this service for free because we believe it is such an important part of kitchen management.

“As well as giving you a copy for your records, we also keep a copy of your contingency plan on file, so if the worst happens, all you need to do is give us a call and we’ll be able to prepare your temporary kitchen and deliver it to you as soon as possible, reducing design time and stress.”

23

CARINGCATERING, FOOD AND NUTRITION

Another taste of success for chef THE culinary talents of a Sanctuary Care chef in Yarnton have once again secured her victory in the group’s prestigious annual cookery contest.

Competing against finalists from the provider’s homes across the country, Marcella Field, chef manager at Yarnton Residential and Nursing Home, has been crowned the organisation’s Chef of the Year 2017.

Her winning menu, prepared for judges during a 90-minute cookoff, comprised a roasted poussin with fondant potatoes and seasonal vegetables for the main course.

This was followed by a rhubarb syllabub, made with white wine, ginger syrup and fresh champagne rhubarb, served with a vanilla tuile biscuit for dessert.

Her prizes following the final, which took place at sponsor Unilever Food Solutions’ head office in Surrey, were £250 for coming and a chef’s knife set, donated by supplier Bidfood, for delivering the best presented menu.

Following her fourth win in the eight years the competition has been running, Marcella said: “It was wonderful to achieve first place again.

“It was fantastic to do something I am so passionate about and all my residents were so happy that I won.

“As my menu was based on a modern roast dinner, I’m looking forward to recreating it for them soon as I’m sure they’ll really enjoy it.”

Entrants were challenged with

Marcella Field creating a main course and dessert which would be suitable for people in a care setting. Their dishes were judged on innovation, nutrition, balance and of course taste.

Coming in second place was Bhanuben Patel, chef manager at Aashna House Residential Care Home in London, with her masala dosa with paneer tikka, followed by coconut and mango barfi. Bhanuben received a special mention for her exquisite dessert, which scored top marks from every judge – the first time this has happened in the competition.

In third place came Dean Blaber, chef manager from The Beeches Residential Care Home in Birmingham, with pan fried sea bass and seafood risotto, and vanilla pana cotta with a strawberry soup with sweet basil.

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The UC is a front-loading machine that’s available in four different sizes, small, medium, large and extra-large.

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CARINGNEWS Advertiser’s announcement

Gainsborough delivers pioneering hygiene levels through BioCote anti-microbial protection CARE homes and hospitals that provide Gainsborough bathing solutions now have greater abilities to combat CROs and other antibiotic resistant microbes thanks to integrated BioCote technology.

Gainsborough is regarded as the innovator in the care bath sector with operationally efficient solutions and holistic service support. Its advanced baths with hi-lo functionality and bather transfer systems are proven to deliver utmost care and performance in today’s challenging care environment.

This unsurpassed reputation has just been enhanced with the introduction of anti-microbial BioCote in all Gainsborough manufactured baths – a first for the UK specialist bathing market.

This protection increases bather and carer wellbeing by reducing the risk of cross infection and illness. BioCote provides 99.99 per cent protection against Influenza H1N1, E.coli, Salmonella and antibiotic resistant CRO, CRE, VRE and MRSA. Through 20 years of development BioCote is a proven worldwide choice hence Gainsborough partners with this specialist to deliver a dependent solution. With BioCote technology integrated

during the manufacturing process microbes cannot survive or breed on bathing surfaces so vulnerable service users are protected 24/7.

It is effective for the lifetime of the product and cannot be washed off or worn away – delivering continual reassurance for bathers and care providers without the need for time-intensive deep cleaning. BioCote also provides further advantages.

It reduces stains, odours and surface degradation resulting in increased product durability for greater product value.

As with all BioCote protected products, Gainsborough baths are subjected to regular quality control testing during manufacture. Only products that demonstrate superior anti-microbial performance carry the BioCote brand – therefore Gainsborough baths will deliver dependable protection.

Malcolm Farmiloe, managing director, Gainsborough Specialist Bathing, said: “Gainsborough continues to take the lead in care innovation with the introduction of BioCote.

“We are excited to be partnering with this specialist, they are a proven worldwide leader in microbial protection. BioCote is not a new product, however, its integration into bathing surface is – eliminating the need for chemical liquids which are fallible. This in turn provides an eco-friendlier solution and enhances sustainability. The latest Gainsborough baths have been independently tested to ensure our manufacturing processes meet international quality control standards and will be continually validated as we move forward. This means current challenges such as combating CROs can be assisted through the selection of our baths for advanced infection control.”

He added: “Gainsborough baths are highly

efficient and provide time and cost savings on many levels. The integration of BioCote enhances their uniqueness and is another feature that safeguards quality care provision at a costeffective price. Our strategy has always been to provide assistive bathing solutions that provide performance related results in a clinical and commercial sense. We believe BioCote reiterates this ethos and represents an indispensable solution for all care home providers.”

Gainsborough Specialist Bathing will be showcasing its BioCote technology alongside leading products examples from its range at the Care Show – Stand D10, 10-11 October 2017, NEC, Birmingham. Stand D10 will include the operationally efficient Gentona with detachable bather transfer system and the Sentes reclining bath ideal for more complex needs. Gainsborough will be demonstrating why these baths provide impressive cost and time savings along with therapeutic benefits especially for dementia patients. www.gainsboroughbaths.com

27

CARINGFIRE SAFETY & SECURITY

Association set to provide fire safety advice to homes THE Fire Industry Association is providing fire safety advice and guidance to employers, responsible persons, and business owners at care homes, hospices, and hospitals following the terrible incident at Grenfell Towers.

Legally, if you own or are responsible for a care home, a hospice, or hospital, then you are known by law as the ‘responsible person’ and will be liable if there is a fire. You could also face a fine of up to £500,000 or a prison sentence for breaching fire safety regulations following an inspection, even if there is no fire.

To help care home, hospice, and hospital responsible persons check that their properties are fire safe, the Fire Industry Association has a range of useful resources available, including a video to explain the necessity of using companies that are Third Party Certificated.

The video, called ‘Responsible for Fire Safety? Fire Safety Explained’, helps explain the legislation behind fire safety, as well as what steps to take to ensure that you have taken every reasonable and practicable

action to prevent a fire in the premises.

The video explains the importance of choosing reputable companies that provide fire safety services – such as those that carry out fire risk assessments, as well as those that install or maintain fire alarm systems or portable fire extinguishers.

Choosing a reputable company can be difficult when employers are unaware of how to recognise one – but the video aims to clear that up.

Companies that have Third Party Certification have been through an independent audit and have been awarded a certificate to show that they can demonstrate a high level of competency.

Making sure that you choose a company that has the right level of skills, knowledge, and understanding of fire safety legislation and the technical knowledge and experience to do the job that they were hired for cannot be stressed enough.

Be wary of companies that offer cheap prices without any form of Third Party Certification – they may not have the necessary training needed to make the building fire safe.

Resident Mildred Price receives her blanket with Pendine Park’s Chris Jones and Sarah Edwards, along with pupils Hannah Singleton and Morgan Matthias.

‘Purl’ of an idea from young knitting stars A TEAM of young knitting stars have come up with a ‘purl’ of an idea to help people with dementia.

The five pupils from Llay CP School have made twiddle blankets and mitts for the residents of Pendine Park in Wrexham.

They were given a warm welcome when they presented their natty gifts at the Bryn Bella care home.

Pendine Park’s consultant artistin-residence, Sarah Edwards, said it was the children themselves who came up with the idea of creating twiddle blankets after visiting their intergenerational workshops at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

She added: “Anna Gordon, a teacher at Llay CP School, asked whether children could make twiddle blankets for residents of our care homes who have dementia.

“Twiddle blankets and muffs are small knitted sections of blanket that have buttons, ribbons and other small harmless items attached to them.

“They can be very comforting for people with dementia who can become agitated. Being able to sit and basically fiddle with or examine the attached objects helps keen them calm.

“It has a calming effect and it’s clearly something some dementia sufferers find therapeutic.”

28

CARINGFIRE SAFETY & SECURITY

Is your care home safe from fire?

UNLIKE security systems which are regularly switched off when the premises are opened and switched on again when leaving, fire systems such as emergency lighting, detection and alarms are on all the time – and sometimes overlooked.

By making sure that everything is in order there will be a much reduced risk of false activations and that they will work at the most critical times to protect life and property. This is a vital requirement for care premises as the earlier you can detect the source of a fire the more time you will have to safely evacuate residents in a calm and controlled manner.

This also applies to other fire safety provisions such as fire extinguishers.

Failure to source and regularly maintain quality extinguishers potentially runs the risk of a small controllable fire escalating into something far more dangerous.

Let’s not also forget, it is a legal

requirement across the UK to ensure you protect your building from the risk of fire. The safety of your staff, residents and additional visitors rely on this to be upheld for their protection.

How can you ensure quality providers are being used for your fire safety works?

There are many companies up and down the country that offer fire safety services, so who can you trust to be a competent provider who will deliver the right works for your building? One very strong option is to use a company that has gained third party certification to fulfil your requirements. Third party certification is a completely independent method of a company gaining evidence of their competency to provide a specific service.

Don’t neglect to maintain your fire systems and provisions It is a good feeling when you have

created a quality fire risk assessment, provided correct fire extinguishers and installed a new fire system such as a detection/alarm or emergency lighting knowing your building is safe.

However, ongoing maintenance of these is just as important to ensure they continue to provide a safe environment to be in. This is part of your fire safety legal obligations and should be performed by a competent provider.

Why is third party certification important?

Without third party certification, there is little in the industry that can offer independent, unbiased approval that a company can competently deliver what they claim. This is of vital importance with fire safety, as this is always discussing life safety.

Government fire safety guidance documents state “Third-party certification schemes for fire protection products and related

services are an effective means of providing the fullest possible assurances, offering a level of quality, reliability and safety that noncertificated products may lack.”

Where can I find a third party certified company to help fulfil my obligations?

BAFE, the independent registration body for third party certified fire protection companies across the UK is available to use for free to find competent companies near you.

It is important to use competent providers, certified in the specific service that you require. You wouldn’t use a dentist to perform heart surgery, so why would you use a company certified to provide sprinklers to fulfil your fire risk assessment? On the BAFE website you can search for companies certified in specific areas to ensure you are using a competent provider for these required works.

Home makes a significant investment in its facilities SHERFORD Manor in Taunton is undergoing an extensive programme of upgrading its facilities to improve the day-to-day experience of its residents.

The home, which offers care to both residential and nursing clients, has had a refurbishment of its dementia and nursing units, and improvements were made to the residents’ rooms and the communal areas. In total, the home will spend £319,000 on both the continuing upgrade of décor and less visible improvements like a new boiler, ventilation works, lift works, and new fire alarm panel.

The ongoing refurbishment also includes redecoration, new furniture, a seaside mural, a fully refurbished dining/lounge area, and upgraded bathroom facilities.

Special care was taken when redecorating to ensure the décor was ‘dementia friendly’. This involved attention paid to the choice of colours, ensuring any handrails can be clearly seen using

Get up and go

Manager Katrina Ball, senior healthcare assistant Emma Warren, unit manager RMN Paul Skaif and nurse Raluca Mortaga by the newly painted mural at Sherford Manor. making these improvements are a contrasting colour on the wall essential to achieving this. behind and changes in flooring to “A lot of work has gone in to make differentiate between the dining sure the facilities are of an excellent room and lounge area. A room was quality, and we are certain that both also allocated to an in-house ‘shop’ the residents and their families will for the residents, and a quiet lounge love spending time in our lounge was created. area and garden.”

Katrina Ball, manager of Sherford Sherford Manor is part of Manor, said: “Our residents are Larchwood Care and provides absolutely delighted with the improvements we’ve made. Comfort dementia, residential and day care and care are our highest priority and for up to 105 elderly residents.

ARE you on board the NHS initiative to encourage the elderly to increase their daily number of steps?

This will improve their physical health and has a positive impact on their mental health and general wellbeing.

Installing a fire door retainer such as a Dorgard or Freedor will enable you to legally hold open your fire doors. It removes the barrier to movement for your residents allowing them to increase their level of mobility.

Your door retainer will activate on the sound of your fire alarm, allowing your fire door to close and prevent the spread of fire.

Are you responsible? Are your fire doors safe?

LORIENT, leading designer and manufacturer of highperformance door sealing systems offers a range of testing and technical services that include fire door inspections and consultancy.

With almost 40 years’ experience, Lorient is respected throughout the industry for its technical expertise; and plays an active role in helping to shape standards and best practice.

Lorient offer a professional and expert fire door inspection service.

Their certificated fire door inspectors are fully qualified under the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS); and have been assessed by Exova Warringtonfire, an independent third

party. Certificated to carry out the inspection of building’s fire doors and prepare a detailed survey; and report on the condition and function of the fire doors on premises; providing peace Enquiries: For further information about Lorient’s fire door Inspection services please contact 01626 834252.

30

CARINGNEWS

Biometric access control offers real benefits to care homes

Staff recognised and thanked for long service ...

FIFTEEN members of staff at Park House in Peterborough have been thanked and recognised for their long service to the home.

The group have accrued 222 years’ service at the home between them, carrying out a range of roles to care for the residents.

The home is part of the Healthcare Homes Group, and chief executive officer Gordon Cochrane, along with chief operating officer Helen Gidlow and regional manager George Catanescu, visited the home to present the staff with certificates and gifts.

The staff recognised have served between 10 and 25 years at Park House, in roles such as registered nurse, healthcare assistant and domestic assistant.

Chief executive officer Gordon Cochrane said: “It was a pleasure to visit Park House to meet the team and to give our thanks and recognition to these staff members who have shown such dedication to the home.

“As a group, it is so important for us to have staff who are happy in their roles, and we are very proud of the high number of people who have been with us for 10 years or more.

“I am delighted that these members of the Park House team have remained with us for so long and

would like to personally thank them for their continued hard work and professionalism.”

The staff members recognised were: n Susie Faux – registered nurse – 25 years’ service. n Angela George – healthcare assistant – 19 years’ service. n Margaret Marratt – domestic assistant – 17 years’ service. n Jane Musson – activities organiser – 17 years’ service. n Madaline Thorne – head carer – 17 years’ service. n Myrna Evangelista – registered nurse – 16 years’ service. n Jan Combe – registered nurse – 16 years’ service. n Wimonluck Phanadorn – healthcare assistant – 14 years’ service. n Maria Di Spena – activities organiser – 13 years’ service. n Nicola Fothergill – healthcare assistant – 13 years’ service. n Amy Liu – registered nurse – 13 years’ service. n Christine Layton – healthcare assistant – 11 years’ service. n Eileen McKie – healthcare assistant – 11 years’ service. n Sue Barker – healthcare assistant – 10 years’ service. n Gillian O’Leary – healthcare assistant – 10 years’ service.

MODERN biometric scanners from ievo Ltd, the Newcastlebased manufacturer of biometric recognition systems, are giving care homes both enhanced security and reliable data.

Swipe cards, numeric key pads and other traditional methods of access security are rapidly being replaced by more convenient biometric technology within the care home sector, providing enhanced security for residents and vital time and cost saving benefits to allow staff more time to provide the personal care their residents deserve.

Staff, or residents, are not required to remember PIN numbers or carry physical passes, providing convenience and confidence that only registered users are on the premises or have access to secure areas.

Using unique multispectral imaging technology to scan and capture data, ievo fingerprint readers can read data regardless of skin conditions (dry, aging skin etc) and levels of surface debris such as moisture and dirt. The system provides fast and accurate information for enhanced identity verification.

Readers can be installed to govern

a variety of access points such as entry doors for staff, residents and visitor, and integrate into access control systems which can facilitate multi-tiered security infrastructures allowing different areas to be managed separately, eg, pharmaceutical stores accessed by staff only.

Many homes are already enjoying the cost benefits of the technology – no replacement cards, no fraudulent entry, no staff required to monitor entry/exit points, security for residents with dementia, for example, and accurate real time data for health and safety, personnel management and security purposes.

Provider plants trees to mark anniversary ONE of the UK’s largest not-for-profit care providers has celebrated its silver jubilee.

The Orders of St John Care Trust first started providing nursing and residential care when it took over responsibility for 16 homes from Lincolnshire County Council in May 1992.

Today, the Trust operates 70 care homes and 14 extra care housing schemes across Lincolnshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire.

To mark the anniversary, all of the Trust’s homes held tea parties for residents, relatives, employees and guests. Two facilities in each region also planted a silver birch tree.

“25 years ago we assumed responsibility for 16 care homes in Lincolnshire with a focus on

supporting the sick, aged and infirm through the provision of serviced, residential facilities or in community care,” said chief executive Dan Hayes.

“Even though a lot has changed in the last 25 years, our commitment to delivering the best possible care and support for our residents and their families has not and I am extremely proud of the 4,500 people who work so hard to care for our residents.

“The Trust has grown significantly since 1992 and we have developed many new ways of providing care and support for residents, especially for those with dementia.

“I am sure the next quarter of a century will see us continue to develop and innovate and we will remain just as focused on caring for the older people in our communities as we were 25 years ago.”

CARINGTRAINING & RECRUITMENT

‘Ambassador’ role for care provider

By Dominic Musgrave

The benefits of online training courses for the care industry THE benefits of online training courses for the care industry Cheaper costs and work-friendly learning management systems mean that those involved in workplace training favour online learning packages to meet the mandatory training requirements for care organisations in the UK. Mandatory training is the training you are expected to provide for your staff following statutory requirements from sources such as the Health and Safety at Work Act, your local authority and the requirements specified by the CQC. All care organisations have a legal responsibility to provide staff with the following mandatory training: n Health and safety n Fire safety n Equality and diversity n Infection control n Manual handling n Safeguarding adults n Safeguarding children For many employers however, the cost of staff training has often been a struggle. In fact, around 61 per cent believe that learning

through face-to-face courses is too expensive and eats into staffing time and resources too much, which may include the need to provide additional cover for staff who are training.

Instead, they are more likely to consider an online training course which are significantly cheaper options for employers, particularly when purchased in bulk.

In addition to affordability in eLearning options, there is also the benefit of 24/7 accessibility. eLearning materials are accessible to staff members throughout the day and night which makes it possible for employees to learn the subject at their own pace, in comfortable settings and in bite sized chunks.

This further ensures that the learners can time-manage their training to suit their own timetables with no negative consequences on productivity and without a restraint on resources.

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EAST Lancashire-based Springhill Care Group has joined a group of ‘ambitious and prestigious’ local businesses with the opportunity to shape policy in the area.

The care group, based in Accrington, has joined the Diamond Ambassador programme operated by the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce.

Membership of the scheme is limited to just 60 companies, with a cap on three businesses per sector. Each ambassador becomes a spokesperson for their sector, offering a high profile opportunity for businesses to offer opinion and shape policy.

It is also an opportunity to network at a high level and take part in exclusive events featuring high profile speakers.

Donna Briggs, managing director of Springhill Care Group, which operates homes in Accrington, Skelmersdale and Bristol, said: “The chamber of commerce does great work representing its members on a regional and even national level.

“We regularly make our views known across the care sector on issues as wide-ranging as skills gaps, training and dementia, and we’re looking forward to helping to shape the East Lancashire

Donna Briggs business community as Diamond Ambassadors.”

A spokesperson for East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce added: “Having Springhill Care on board as a Diamond Ambassador is very important to the Chamber.

“As the national demographic develops into an aging population, businesses in the region will benefit from advice and guidance from experts in the care sector to inform them on the latest developments in social care and also best practice in dementia care for staff and family.”

35

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CARINGTRAINING & RECRUITMENT

Staff survey results reveal operator is top care employer Initiative aims to bring homes and local community together AN initiative has been set up to link care homes in Lancashire to help residents take part in activities and have a change of scenery.

Brainchild of the Athena Healthcare Group the ‘community monthly activity hub’ involves bringing care homes and the community together in order to help the elderly age ‘well’ in care homes. The activities also work to combat loneliness and isolation in the community.

Launched in March, the hub began its journey at the Civic Hall in Ormskirk and recently some residents from care homes of west Lancashire and Sefton boroughs – Abbey Wood Lodge in Ormskirk, Aaronmore Park in Burscough, Parklands

Lodge in Southport, Aaron Crest in Skelmersdale and The Promenade Rest Home in Southport met in New Brighton’s Queens Royal Hotel for a fish and chips lunch.

Group events co-ordinator Lesley Malone said: “The event is helping people not only in care homes make new friends and feel less lonely but the elderly in the wider community.

“You hear a lot of negatives about care homes and hardly any positives but this great initiative for North West Care homes is trying to change that.”

Athena Healthcare Group is now looking for more care homes to join with the activity hub to work together to provide an active and healthy lifestyle for the elderly.

A RECENT employee survey carried out at The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution Care Company shows that the provider scores high in employee satisfaction.

More than 800 staff members took part in the survey, facilitated by Agenda Consulting, and shared their views across 11 different work areas.

The high Employee Engagement Index score of 83 per cent received a special award by Agenda Consulting, as the engagement level was considered to be very positive.

90 per cent of respondents said the work they do gives them a feeling of personal achievement, while 91 per cent found that they are being given the necessary training to do their job effectively.

The survey also found that 81 per cent of RMBI Care Co. employees would recommend their employer as a good place to work. 85 per cent said they would willingly put in extra effort to help the organisation.

The findings have been benchmarked against data collected from 15 similar social care organisations in the UK. This showed that RMBI Care Co. staff members were more satisfied with their pay, working tools and equipment, training and leadership than the median average at similar organisations.

83 per cent of employees also said they felt they could openly express their ideas and opinions.

Louise Bateman, human resources director at RMBI Care Co, said: “Over the past three years, we have invested in our learning and development

HR manager Jenny Goodchild and Roger Parry, director of Agenda Consulting. initiatives, including our leadership and management development at all levels. We have also enhanced our induction programme for all new joiners and feedback from this years’ survey shows that this has been well received by our employees.

“We have also offered all our care home staff a comprehensive Employee Assistance Benefit Programme which they receive from their first day of employment.

“We are committed to being an employer of choice and creating a working environment where staff are listened to, supported and feel valued.”

Home welcomes new manager Samantha THE Cedars, the Minster Care-run residential home in Holmes Chapel, has strengthened its management team with the appointment of highly experienced care professional Samantha Robinson as home manager.

Samantha has a wealth of social care experience, having worked in the sector for over 10 years.

Before she joined the team at The Cedars, Samantha led staff as acting manager and deputy manager of an EMI home.

Prior to this, Samantha worked in a nursing home as a nursing assistant and has experience in the extra care sector.

Samantha has a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, and is currently working towards a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management.

She also undertook training on a nursing assistant programme that enables her to support residents who require additional care.

Samantha said: “I’m excited to

Samantha Robinson join the team as home manager and uphold its reputation in the local community.

“My new colleagues have been so welcoming, and I look forward to working with them to provide our residents with the highest quality person-centred care.”

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CARINGTRAINING & RECRUITMENT Advertiser’s announcement

How easy is it to recruit staff for free?

AT the Care Hub, we believe that staffing and recruitment agencies can largely become a thing of the past but only if care providers change their ways.

So, what do I mean by ‘change their ways’? At least 90 per cent of the care providers I speak to have the same problems.

They place their job adverts in sporadic places or the same places they’ve always done. They have no applicant tracking or candidate management system to allow them to manage, maintain and develop their recruitment strategy.

They have no idea where to start when it comes to increasing their digital reach by using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn etc.

Even if they did have these systems, they would say they are too busy and that they don’t have the time or anyone to help them or show them how to become truly effective at recruiting in a modern digital age.

Everyone knows that using a recruitment and staffing agency is expensive but sometimes necessary if you can’t find the staff you need.

However, with the exception of recruiting nurses, there should be very little need, if any at all, for you to use a recruitment agency to find support workers, healthcare assistants, cleaners, housekeeping etc, provided you have the tools, know-how and support needed to become effective at recruitment.

So how do staffing agencies find people?

Recruitment agencies consistently market and advertise their open vacancies in as many places as possible. They utilise social media and online systems to ensure they are first to capture the talent that is looking online. They are quick to call and discuss opportunities with applicants and once they have them signed up, they market them out to multiple care providers, just like you, at a much higher rate than you would normally pay. In my experience, care providers are paying between £12 to £16 per hour for care staff against their usual rates of £7.50 to £8.25 per hour.

I continually find that care providers, regardless of size, are trying to recruit staff without any systems or robust processes and they are trying to recruit without paying a single penny.

Our best client has zero staffing agency spend, sub 10 per cent staff turnover and 80 per cent of their employees have no prior care experience prior to joining but have the right talent and motivation for a career in care.

How is this possible? They have taken control of their recruitment and they have changed the way that they approach it.

How much would you save in time, money and effort if you cut your recruitment agency spend by 20-40-60+ per cent? How much money would you save if you reduced staff turnover by 25 per cent50 per cent?

Visit us at www.thecarehub.com and discover how you can source the talent you need to deliver the outstanding care that your clients deserve.

Click the ‘Request a Demo’ button or call us direct on 0330 335 8999 and say goodbye to using expensive recruitment and staffing firms and say hello to the Care Hub.

Scott Sherriden

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Aidcall Aid Call, a brand of Legrand, is the leading provider of wireless Nurse Call systems for care groups, care homes and hospitals of any size or scale in both the public and private sector. Aid Call has been at the forefront of wireless nurse call technology for over 40 years, with first class knowledge and innovative solutions. Wireless offers the benefit of flexibility, cost-effective installation with minimal disruption and lower lifetime costs over a traditional hardwired system. All of Aid Call’s products have been developed following feedback from customers. www.aidcall.co.uk

Electrolux Professional Electrolux Professional is the only supplier offering a complete range of high performance, professional laundry and kitchen products under the same brand. We are continually developing laundry and kitchen equipment to tackle the problem of infection efficiently, as well as producing the lowest cost in use machines in the market. The lowest cost in use machines in the market.

Call 0844 463 1260, email els.info@electrolux. co.uk or visit www.professional.electrolux. co.uk

Gainsborough Gainsborough Specialist Bathing will be showcasing the operationally efficient Gentona and Sentes baths. The Gentona is a variable height bathing solution with powered bather transfer seat for semi-ambulant users and the reclining Sentes is ideal for more complex bather needs. Gainsborough will also be demonstrating its BioCote anti-microbial technology which is integrated into its manufactured baths. BioCote provides 99.99% protection against Influenza H1N1, E.coli, Salmonella and antibiotic resistant CRO, CRE, VRE and MRSA. www.gainsboroughbaths.com

The Care Hub The Care Hub is a new recruitment platform for the care industry, designed to streamline your online recruitment, saving you up to 95 per cent on fees and reducing admin time and costs by at least half. Our mission is to help care providers move away from using expensive recruitment and staffing firms by helping them source, attract, engage and retain the talent needed to deliver outstanding quality care. There has never been a better time or place for care providers and workers to come together in a single place... The Care Hub. www.thecarehub.com

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Life co EXCLUSIVE: Join in the Life co Care Show competition, where you could be in with a chance to WIN £500 worth of training vouchers. At Life co, we’ve developed an online platform to help people buy care: a customer visits us at lifeco. com, enters their care requirements – where, when and what they need – and we ask our providers to reply with personalised quotes. This means providers get business dropped right into their inbox and access to a market of thousands of self-funded care clients – and it’s FREE to join. www.lifeco.com

Access 21 Interiors If you are planning a project, large or small, and would like help with interior design, furniture and soft furnishings we can help. As well as making your residents comfortable with a homely environment, rooms become easier to market and the value of the home increased. Our clients benefit from our 17 years of working in the care sector, dementia expertise (if required), without any minimum order or long term contracts – just good, honest customer service tailored to your needs. www.access21interiors.co.uk

Intercall Intercall supplies industry leading nursecall technology into care homes and hospices. Our systems are designed to assist both users and management with a host of features to improve the day to day running of your care home. The Safeguard Sensor is our latest development balancing care without being too intrusive, it detects the presence of a person and generates the appropriate alarm. Visit us on stand M40 to see both our Care Card and our Safeguard Sensor in action. www.intercall.co.uk

Active Minds Active Minds are a multi-award-winning organisation which design beautiful games and activities for people living with cognitive, visual, and dexterity challenges. The products are designed in partnership with care homes, families and people living with dementia where the goal is to help people discover new, or enjoy their old pastimes and hobbies, regardless of the disease. Active Minds now has over 4,000 care home customers both in the UK and abroad and the products have now reached an estimated 100,000 people living with dementia.

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CARINGNEWS

Annual fete raises more than £900

The Prince’s Trust team with Ceremonial Mayor of the City of Salford.

Prince’s Trust create dementia village

By Dominic Musgrave

YOUNG people from across Salford have helped create a unique dementia village at Pemberton Fold Care Home in Little Hulton as part of a Prince’s Trust project run by the Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service and City West Housing Trust.

The team, aged 17 to 26, put their skills to the test by transforming the home’s courtyard area into a traditional English village, complete with an allotment, sweet shop and tranquil gardens.

To fund their challenge at Pemberton Fold, which is part of national social care charity Community Integrated Care, the

team raised over £400 by packing customers’ bags at Asda in Trafford Park. In just under two weeks the hard-working youngsters cleared the courtyard, planted flowers, built a garden fence, created an allotment and converted the old shed into a traditional sweet shop. The village now provides a haven for residents to relax and enjoy.

The home recently hosted a celebration event where the Right Worshipful Ceremonial Mayor of the City of Salford marked the momentous occasion by officially opening the dementia village. Guests included residents, relatives, and representatives from The Prince’s Trust, Salford City Council, Greater

Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and City West Housing Trust.

Julie Lindsay, assistant service manager for Pemberton Fold and mastermind behind the project, added: “I’d like to thank the young people for doing an amazing job at turning our dream into a reality. It’s taken a long time to get here and we’re thrilled to have our dementia village open for business.

It’s been wonderful to see the young group interacting with our residents, staff and relatives – everyone’s helped out.

“The people we support love it and not only is it great for their health and wellbeing, we also hope it will ignite special memories for them too.”

ROSEBANK Care Home opened its doors to the community and brought the seaside to Oxfordshire at its annual summer fete.

Relatives, friends and members of the local community joined residents and staff from the familyowned care home in Bampton for an afternoon of fun, with entertainment and beach games for all ages and a raffle raising over £900 for the home’s residents’ fund.

The seaside theme was complemented by a Punch and Judy show, traditional ice-cream and home made lemonade, donkeys and live entertainment from the Wantage Male Voice Choir. Local butcher Patrick Stainge fed hungry guests with a tasty BBQ, and Bernard Jones filled the garden with an array of seaside tunes with his traditional organ playing.

Owner Jane Roberts said: “It was so lovely to see so many people come and support our annual fete this year, creating a memorable afternoon for our residents.

“The theme was suggested at a residents’ meeting in December that we should bring the seaside to the home, so everyone had the opportunity to relive happy memories.”

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CARINGNEWS

Home helps prevent harmful falls for the community’s elderly STAFF at Home Close residential care home in Fulbourn near Cambridge are helping residents and local community members to stay physically strong in an effort to stop them coming to harm through falls.

The home hosts ‘Falls Prevention’ classes every Thursday morning, which are open to members of the community as well as the people that live within the home.

Every year, more than one in three people over 65 suffer a fall that can cause serious injury, and even death so the Home Close team were keen to find a way to help local elderly people and their residents avoid these types of accidents.

The classes, led by a local physiotherapist and exercise leader, guide attendees through a series of exercises that help provide strength and conditioning to reduce the chance of them being likely to fall.

The classes, which have been running for nearly two years, are held for around an hour, followed by tea and coffee.

The session involves seated and standing exercises to strengthen muscles that are known to weaken with old age.

Manager Razvan Stanbeca said: “Our falls classes are proving to be a real success. We wanted to find a way to provide a physical exercise class that was accessible and enjoyable to our residents and our elderly community, to help stop the injuries that are so common with falling.

“The group members tell us that the benefits are significant and I hope that more people will join us to take advantage of this fun and enjoyable session, which could really help avoid falls and other accidents, and the related consequences, that are typically associated with ageing.”

Royal visit for Lincoln care home

THE Duke of Gloucester visited Boultham Park House Care Home in Lincoln.

His Royal Highness met residents and employees as he toured the home.

During the visit, The Duke was shown the home’s gardens, vegetable patch and summer house where he viewed a reminiscence activity and learned about a recent

cognitive therapy project.

He also had the opportunity to meet husband and wife residents Ted and Maggie Ford who showed off their private lounge before joining gathered residents and guests for light refreshments.

Andrea Brooks, home manager at Boultham Park House, said: We were really thrilled to welcome the Duke for a visit.”

The new Equinox Evolve DANFLOOR UK, specialist manufactures and suppliers of commercial carpets, are receiving a warm welcome to their new Equinox Evolve range which had joined the awarding winning Equinox Collection.

The new Equinox Evolve has an elegant and contemporary pattern; available in 13 colours it has been design to sit comfortably alongside the Equinox Tones range, enabling the creation of exquisite interior design schemes.

Manufactured using innovative tufting technology Evolve offers a delicate pattern and a high tuft density giving the range presence and durability.

In addition, it’s made with our Prism fibre and incorporates all our usual performance features, such as an impervious membrane and antimicrobial yarn treatment, making

it suitable for a number of locations within a healthcare environment.

Also, about to be launched are six ranges which make up the stunning new Evolution Collection.

The new designs are aptly titled, Scape, Geo Form, Origin, Glaze, Manhattan and Forest and will offer a variety of designs from subtle to bold statement pieces.

The Evolution Collection will be available to view alongside the rest of danfloor’s Healthcare Collection at the Care and Dementia Show Birmingham in October.

Caring UK’s guide Concept to Completion From Concept to Completion is a special feature that will chart everything that goes into the development of a care home from the planning process right through to the opening.

Have you considered investing?

Recent reports state that there will be a significant shortage of care home beds in coming years to meet the demands of an increasingly ageing population. Newcastle University’s Institute for Ageing identifies an extra 71,000 beds are needed across England in the next 8 years. Concurrently we are seeing more activity in the sector in respect of interest in future development to meet some of that demand.

At Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank we have actively encouraged providers to consider investing in both new build projects and upgrades such as extensions and reconfigurations to existing property.

With current low interest rates, competitive construction market and a generally favourable planning appetite for care related development we have agreed funding for over 35 projects in the last 2 years.

It is evident that there is a move to building hotel like services to cater for a selffunded resident and that these projects are geographically targeted for areas of appropriate affluence. Whilst we have supported a number of these new builds there is also encouraging activity in the local authority funded areas.

sector expertise that is crucial in ensuring maximum outcomes at realistic costs. We have an experienced Health and Social care team with a wealth of knowledge in the sector and this helps us to make a real and tangible contribution to that wider professional team and planning process.

Each profession has a vital role to fulfil and experience of previous successes in the care sector should be evidenced. The architect must deliver a safe, compliant and staff/resident friendly efficient design which will also appeal to planners. The role of a qualified and sector familiar quantity surveyor is a significant appointment to control costs for the providers benefit and also in liaising with the funder.

The chosen contractor should be able to evidence completed previous recent care projects that are of good standard, delivered on time and on budget. A contractor should be happy to show a provider such completed schemes and also allow references to be taken from customers. It is also recommended that a number of identified contractors are tendered rather than selecting one only. Also the quantity surveyor can determine that cheapest is not always the best option.

Despite well documented pressures on fee levels, staff costs and reduced margins, we have funded developments which provide much needed facilities and which can be constructed and operated profitably in areas such as Bradford, Dewsbury and Sheffield for example.

Lawyers with care sector experience and construction expertise are also invaluable when negotiating key documents in order to protect the provider. Finally a competent accountant can deliver financial plans and budgets to confirm that the project is viable, supportable, justified and fundable.

Key to a successful development project is the capability and experience of the professional team engaged by the provider. Often proposals presented fall short of the specific

The foregoing should then be confirmed by a lender approved valuer who can provide a feasibility confirmation and indicate likely

Derek Breingan Head of Health and Social Care Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank

values from site to completion and also future value once trading.

Subject to the appropriate guidance and engagement with the right professional team there are opportunities for the sector that should be explored regardless of which source of resident funding is available.

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CARINGCONCEPT TO COMPLETION

The fundraiser was held at Fairfields Sport and Social Club.

Race night raises funds Group reveals plans for for sensory equipment An artist’s impression of the new £8m facility.

new Erdington facility A BIRMINGHAM care provider has revealed its plans for an £8million dementia-friendly nursing home for the elderly in Erdington, which will provide up to 80 new jobs in the area.

MACC Care has submitted a planning application to Birmingham City Council to develop an 80-bed care home on the site of the Hare and Hounds public house in Marsh Hill.

The provider, which already runs five care facilities for the elderly across the city, said the muchneeded home would be the only purpose-built residential home for the elderly and vulnerable within a two-mile radius.

Howard McCormack, commercial director of MACC Care, said as well as residential care, it will offer rehabilitation care, which will help to relieve pressure on hospitals by reducing bed-blocking.

This, in turn, will enable recuperating elderly patients to get better quicker so they can return home.

“We are a small, local company that specialises in providing superior, evidence-based and dementia-friendly accommodation that caters for the elderly and vulnerable and our research has identified the need for a purposebuilt facility in Erdington,” he added.

“We want to work closely with the council, councillors and the local community to assure them

about our proposals and to listen to them about their needs. We pride ourselves on our values, which are consistent with maximising the quality of care for elderly, vulnerable people from all sections of society – not just the privileged.”

As part of its plans for the new Erdington care home, MACC Care will incorporate a hub that will include a gym specifically designed for the elderly; a library/quiet area with a cafe; a hair salon; cinema; and chapel-prayer area – all of which will be open to local residents over the age of 65.

“We are acutely aware that local residents want to have replacement facilities open to them, following the closure of the public house, and we have proposed a number of options that we would be happy to discuss with community leaders,” added Howard.

“These will enrich the lives of the local elderly people and enable them to socialise, meet or make friends in safe, modern surroundings, and somewhere that will have a significant positive impact on their wellbeing.”

MACC Care, which acquired the former public house site in April – eight months after the premises was put on the open market – runs two other care facilities in Erdington: Abbey Rose in Orchard Road, and Priestley Rose in Bromford Lane – both of which were rated good by the CQC when inspections were carried out earlier this year.

A TEESSIDE race night has raised hundreds of pounds for care home residents across the region.

Fairfields Sport and Social Club, in Stockton on Tees, held the fundraiser for five care homes in Middlesbrough, Stockton and Hartlepool.

More than £600 was raised through bets and donations from race goers, staff, family and friends.

There was also a pie and peas supper, cake sale, disco and raffle, with prizes including a Middlesbrough FC shirt signed by the team.

The funds will be used to purchase sensory equipment for those living with dementia, as well as a video library and luxury beauty and pamper items.

The care homes, all owned by the Hill Care Group, include: n The Gables, Middlesbrough. n Mandale House, Thornaby. n Ingleby, Ingleby Barwick. n The Beeches, Newtown. n Queens Meadow, Hartlepool.

Beth Stevenson, North East regional manager for the Hill Care Group, said: “The race night was a novel way for staff, relatives and friends to come together and have lots of fun while

raising funds to help our residents.

“We’re always looking at ways to improve engaging with our residents, especially for those with hearing or sight impairment. Sensory equipment is so important as it enhances the experience of their immediate surroundings and overall quality of life.

“A dedicated beauty and pamper room will enable residents to feel like they are taking a trip to a beauty salon and a video library means that we can hold movie afternoons to entertain residents and relatives alike.

“Our thanks go to everyone who came to the race night, had a bet or two and donated to help our residents.”

To round off race night, everyone at the event took part in a ‘Dementia Dab’, a dance challenge spreading across social media following Dementia Awareness Week.

Beth added: “The Dementia Dab is a bit of fun for residents and staff alike. You can see how it’s done if you search for it online.

“We’re challenging others to take part across Teesside and other Hill Care homes around the UK, so get your dance shoes on and give it a go.”

Volunteers improve care home’s outdoor space RESIDENTS and staff at Greenhill House are delighted to have a re-vamped garden space thanks to volunteers from Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Volunteers recently arrived armed with tools and plants and worked tirelessly to revitalise the garden at the Cheddar care home.

One of the aims was to make Greenhill House’s garden more attractive to visiting wildlife, and this was supported by a new bug hotel and various colourful and scented flowers.

The project was part of a wider piece of work with Mendip Hills AONB’s Nature and Wellbeing project, which sees the health and wellbeing benefits in supporting people to connect with

nature and wildlife.

The volunteers will be making regular visits to Greenhill House to share stories and photographs from their volunteering tasks throughout the season.

Speaking about the new garden, manager Alyson Day said: “On behalf of the residents and staff at Greenhill House, “I would like to thank the Mendip Hills AONB volunteers for their hard work, and also Cheddar Garden Centre (a Wyevale Garden Centre) for their kind donation of plants.

“It was an absolutely wonderful day seeing our garden transform; we’re hoping the weather allows us to spend more time outside to enjoy it over the summer.”

We can help create a homely environment at your home

IF you are planning a new-build, extension or refurbishment project, and would like help with interior design, furniture and soft furnishings we can help.

As well as making your residents comfortable with a homely environment, rooms become easier to market and the value of the home increased.

Our services are flexible and any element can be taken independently depending on your specific needs.

Artwork, tableware, towels and bedding can also be provided for a co-ordinated look, all with no

minimum order or long-term contract.

Our clients benefit from our 17 years of working in the care sector, dementia expertise (if required), and good, honest customer service tailored to your needs.

We offer a free one-and-a-half hour consultation visit without obligation to enable us to understand your precise needs.

For more information visit www.access21interiors.co.uk or telephone 020 8399 3091 or email info@access21ltd.co.uk

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CARINGCONCEPT TO COMPLETION

Gala opening for new garden A GLENROTHES care home has celebrated the opening of its dementia friendly garden with a traditional summer fete.

Bield’s Finavon Court has worked on its outdoor space to provide a welcoming, relaxing and safe environment for service users and their families to enjoy free of stress.

The fully accessible garden features raised beds and was funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and the Bank of Scotland Foundation.

This included £1,000 of Dobbies vouchers to help service users fill the beds with flora of their choice.

Angela Hayes, manager at Finavon Court, said: “It is a fantastic idea to encourage everyone who lives here to spend more time outdoors and enjoy

the outbreaks of good weather!

“The flowers are really starting to brighten things up and residents are really enjoying the excuse to get outdoors a wee bit more often.

“The fete was a great success and a lovely way to make the most of the revamped space.”

A strawberry theme made the most of the outdoors with cake and candy stalls providing a bite to eat for revellers to go with teas and coffees.

Finavon also received a visit from Therapy Ponies Scotland who brought Bonny their four-legged friend along to meet the residents and visitors.

The garden was opened by Kevin Rowe, fundraiser at Bield, who was instrumental in raising the funds for the space.

Meadow House Nursing Home in Swaffham’s annual summer fete raised a record amount of over £1,700 for the residents’ comfort fund. The home, which is rated ‘outstanding’ by the CQC, was delighted to welcome friends, family and members of the local community to enjoy a traditional fete. The afternoon included a tombola, cake stalls, a raffle, BBQ, traditional games, bric-a-brac stalls, a plant sale and live musical entertainment.

Vernon and Michelle Savage with David Jeffery and Paul Beck, the Mayor of Hartlepool.

Home secures funding from Yorkshire Bank

By Dominic Musgrave

ROSSMERE Park Care Centre Ltd has received a six-figure funding package from Yorkshire Bank to assist with the purchase and refurbishment of an existing empty care home in Hartlepool.

Over 40 new jobs have been created following completion of the refurbishment and opening of the care home, benefiting both the town and the surrounding areas.

The new 50-bed facility will also provide much needed capacity in the local area, which is currently experiencing a shortage of beds.

Rossmere Park Care Centre Ltd is owned by Michelle and Vernon Savage, who have previously been involved with several care homes and currently operate a homecare service based in Stockton.

Michelle said: “Securing this

funding from Yorkshire Bank was critical in helping us set up and establish our new business.

“Yorkshire Bank’s team were really helpful in working with us to put together the right financing package and we are confident they are the right banking partner for our business going forward.”

David Jeffery, relationship manger, commercial banking, Yorkshire Bank, said: “We are delighted to be playing a part in helping to create new jobs and deliver new services to the local community.

“We’re focused on supporting the success and prosperity of regional economies, and with our £6billion lending commitment for SMEs across the UK. “We’ll continue to work with ambitious businesses like Rossmere to help them realise their growth ambitions.”

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CARINGCONCEPT TO COMPLETION Advertiser’s announcement

Heckmondwike offers complete flooring solutions HECKMONDWIKE, one of the UK’s leading fibre bonded carpet and carpet tile manufacturers, is now offering a complete solution for the care sector through its Pure Care and Total Care ranges.

Pure Care and Total Care are ideally suited to healthcare environments or sheltered housing, whether that be communal areas, corridors or bedrooms.

Both types of carpet feature an impervious backing and are highly resistant to staining and bleach and

are extremely durable. They are also manufactured to meet all relevant flammability tests.

Available in four metre widths, these carpets are very easy to fit and offer low installation costs. They also offer antistatic properties.

Both Pure Care and Total Care are available in eight different attractive colour options.

Jeremy Broadhead, commercial manager for Heckmondwike, said: “Demand is strong for our high performance, stain resistant carpets

for care homes and sheltered housing. With a wide choice of colours within each range, there is something to suit all tastes and applications.”

Heckmondwike also offers a range of entrance products, which are suitable for care homes and sheltered housing.

This includes Vanquisher, with its alternative rib and velour surface pattern. Vanquisher is ideal for protecting carpets from outside soiling and moisture.

It also offers thermal and acoustic properties and low maintenance.

Also for entrance areas, Heckmondwike offers mats featuring bespoke logos and designs for care homes and healthcare environments that are DDA approved.

These can be either incorporated into a loose lay mat or inlaid into the floor in entrance areas.

Heckmondwike offers 20 different colour options and mats are available in bespoke sizes to suit specific applications.

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CARINGCONCEPT TO COMPLETION

Provider to expand with development Gloria helps celebrate launch of luxurious Kent care home GLORIA Hunniford OBE was guest of honour at an event to mark the opening of a new care home in Kent.

She cut the ribbon to officially launch Weald Heights in Sevenoaks, the 29th care home Care UK has opened since 2013.

This is the first Care UK home to take the service and facilities to a whole new level with more luxurious fittings in the rooms, a customised fine dining service allowing residents to select from a menu of daily dishes which are cooked to order and a lifestyle team on hand to create even more personalised activities.

At the opening, Gloria entertained guests with amusing anecdotes, jokes and she spoke about how impressed she was with the home and the team working there.

As a local resident she also joked

that she was planning to pop round regularly to make use of the cinema and popcorn machine found on the first floor of the home.

The event was enjoyed by the residents who have just moved in, their family and friends, local people, media representatives and key players in the Sevenoaks community.

Weald Heights home manager, Maria Covington, said: “We were delighted to welcome Gloria Hunniford to officially open the home and mark this important milestone.

“Residents and their families are at the heart of everything we do, including the launch celebrations, and it was an enjoyable day for all.

“It was fantastic to welcome so many local people and special guests to Weald Heights. Our grand launch really was a day to remember.”

IDEAL Carehomes will expand its portfolio of care homes following the acquisition of a site in Mountsorrel, Leicestershire.

The new state-of-the-art care home, named Mountview, has been secured from specialist care home developer, LNT Care Developments.

Ideal Carehomes currently operates 15 homes totalling 876 beds.

Mountview will take the total bed count to 942 with further organic growth anticipated in the future.

The move comes shortly after the appointment of managing director, Paul Farmer, who has an established reputation for sustainable expansion and high occupancy, with over 15 years’ experience in health care property.

Mountview will be the first home that Ideal Carehomes has commissioned since selling 25 to Anchor in 2015.

Paul said: “It is a particularly exciting time for Ideal Carehomes and I am thrilled to be leading the company through this chapter of growth.

“My main focus is to make every single Ideal care home a great place to live and work and we already have a good basis on which to develop.

“Mountview is in a great location and I am sure it will become an integral hub of the local community, in terms of the homes and jobs it will

Paul Farmer provide, and also the active social calendar for residents and local people.”

The new home, which will open its doors towards the end of 2017, will benefit from advanced design features and environmentally friendly and sustainable aspects such as ground source heat pumps, underfloor heating and LED lighting.

As well as having 66 en-suite bedrooms over three floors, Mountview will encompass several spacious communal areas including a cinema, library and tea room.

There will be other shared spaces which will be themed by the residents who live at the home, all surrounded by attractive landscaped gardens.

Advertiser’s announcement

From cheeky leopards to tasty donuts, Mood Interiors’ new collection is bursting with fun RESPONDING to requests from clients to create non-institutional designs for care homes; combined with their skill for both design and functionality within healthcare environments, Mood Interiors has launched a brand-new range of contract fabrics which are sure to catch your eye.

Mood Interiors aims to have consistency in level of design and style, be it residential or healthcare.

Using suitable fabrics and finishes, they strongly believe healthcare environments such as care homes, can look and feel just like our own houses would; trendy, luxurious with a hint of personality thrown in for good measure.

Following numerous requests from clients, to add some ‘wow factor’ and appeal into their spaces, Mood Interiors felt there was a need for some spark and youth within this sector.

This year, Mood Interiors launch their new collection of Crib 5, fire retardant fabrics. These fabric designs are inspired by the end user, people with specific needs.

Whether we are able bodied or

have varying needs, around us is a world of inspiration which we all feed upon.

Like us all, people with disabilities or sensory requirements are inspired by what they see in the

high street.

They are shopping in the same shops as their peer group, they are following pop culture and listening to the latest number one hits.

They are eating out in the most

popular fast-food chains and they are ambitious and driven to be a part of society and be treated as equals to everyone else.

So, when is it comes to fabrics and interiors, Mood strives to make the latest styles accessible within the care sector.

Whether it is a cheeky leopard print, or a subtle elegant feather design, using the trends sought after by the youth of today, clients of all ages can be enthused by this latest collection.

Enhancing moods for all generations and abilities, taking the energy from the young and moving this up the age bracket, to bring some life and spark into our care homes.

This collection of fabrics is available as curtain, upholstery and even wallpaper to ensure there is always an area in your home where you can add some quirk.

After all, it doesn’t matter how young or old we are, everyone deserves to have an element of personality, a dash of colour and pinch of boldness within their environments.

For further information about Mood Interiors, please check out www.moodinteriors.net

52

CARINGCONCEPT TO COMPLETION

Authority opens its investigation into care homes

By Sarah Brooke and Iain Campbell

THE Competition and Markets Authority is currently part-way through a market study into the residential care homes sector, to assess whether it is working well for elderly people and their families.

It published an update paper on June 14 which identified, amongst other things, that while many care homes offer a good service, some might not be treating residents fairly; indeed certain business practices and contract terms might be breaking consumer law.

On the basis of the results of the market study so far, the CMA also launched a consumer protection case to investigate two specific areas of concern involving self-funding residents: The requirement to pay large upfront fees; and The fees charged after a resident’s death.

Other areas of emerging concern include poor initial information from care homes about their price structures and insufficient warning of price changes, while Citizens’ Advice has called on the CMA to consider imposing deposit protection schemes.

The effectiveness for residents of care homes’ own complaints processes is also being considered.

The CMA is looking at ways to ensure stronger protections for residents and their families, using the range of tools they have available.

These include powers of investigation and (potentially) enforcement where the law is being flouted.

Protection for consumers in relation to care home contracts is enshrined in the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Key provisions of the CRA include requirements that: All written terms of a consumer contract must be transparent (section 68(1), CRA); Transparent means plain and intelligible language and (if written) legible (section 64(3), CRA); and Price/subject matter contract terms must be transparent and prominent (section 64, CRA).

A “grey list” of terms (in schedule 2) which are considered “unfair”, include those which: Tie consumers into a contract beyond what they would normally expect; Unfairly prevent consumers recovering prepayments on termination; and Subject consumers to disproportionate financial sanctions.

The CMA is concerned that in contravention of the above CRA requirements, residents are not made aware of all the applicable contract terms before they sign contracts.

Terms relating to price, including any deposits or other upfront payments, were found to be confusing, or completely absent from pre-contract discussions with residents, with many complaining of

“hidden charges”.

Residents are also being required to pay an upfront deposit at the same time as paying fees monthly in advance, potentially compensating the care home twice for the same loss.

The CMA’s initial findings in relation to fees charged after a resident’s death show care home providers retaining the right to recover full gross fees from a resident’s estate following death, including a requirement to compensate the care home provider for any shortfall in fees that would have been paid by the state.

The clear signal for care home providers from the CMA’s initial findings and investigation is therefore to ensure: All pricing details are clearly set out in as much detail as possible on websites and in pre-contract documentation seen by residents; Residents must be given time to read all contract documentation before signature; Requirements to pay upfront deposits and/or other management fees do not overlap with payment of monthly fees in advance to potentially allow the care home provider to recover twice for the same loss; and Fees payable after the death of a resident should be made clear from the start and should be proportionate.

Homes should not seek to recover costs for which the resident was not responsible in the first place.

The CMA is currently sending some care homes demands for information.

Intended to unearth facts, these have statutory force under the Competition Act 1998. Powers to visit premises are also available.

Failure to cooperate, where investigative powers are being validly exercised, could be an offence by care home businesses and even by individual managers.

Later this year the CMA may decide to recommend Government to impose legal changes on the commercial practices of care homes.

Meanwhile, trading standards authorities can bring prosecutions to challenge illegal current practices, while residents or their representatives may decide to challenge unfair contract terms in civil court cases.

Homes finding themselves under CMA investigation (or facing enforcement action) will need to take legal advice swiftly.

Due cooperation with any investigation needs to be combined with giving a fair account of their actions, so that their businesses are properly protected. n Sarah Brooke (sarah.brooke@ hilldickinson.com) is head of commercial healthcare and Iain Campbell (Iain.Campbell@ hilldickinson.com) is a litigation partner specialising in competition law at Hill Dickinson.

Ironer helps home maintain standards ST FRANCIS Care Home in Govan, Glasgow is a 40-bed nursing home run by the Franciscan Sisters Minoress, a religious congregation who have been working in Govan since 1946.

The majority of the home’s flatwork laundry used to be outsourced, but last year a decision was taken to bring it all in-house in order to save money and also allow better stock control. Unusually for a care home it was decided that all bedding would be ironed. They bought a GMP electrically heated drying ironer from Armstrong Commercial Laundry Systems, having had previous experience with the company – they already had washers and dryers supplied by Armstrong. The home has a dedicated laundry staff who use the ironer daily, at least five to six hours a day. The staff have been trained to use the equipment by Armstrong engineers.

Enquiries: Call 01635 263410, email enquiries@armstronglaundry.com or visit www.armstronglaundry.com

Simple solutions

SINCE 1982, Colne (Lancs) based, Richards Residential Supplies have concentrated upon supplying simple solutions to common nursing home problems.

The new WACMAT® adheres strongly to this tradition.

With its ultra absorbent cotton pile and 100 per cent waterproof backing, the remarkable WACMAT® is an ideal accessory where spills may occur.

Used as a commode mat, in bedrooms or bathrooms, the WACMAT® ensures full carpet protection. Then, after use, simply machine wash and tumble dry! It’s that simple...

The WACMAT® will then be clean and odourfree, ready to perform time and time again.

Alternatively the flat-laying WACMAT® can be used as an entrance mat, saving you hundreds of pounds in rental costs alone.

Enquiries: Telephone 0800 074 3749.

Turn to technology to ease staff shortages CARE homes could ease the pressure of staff shortages, and potentially enable their residents to be less reliant on support for some basic activities, by making more use of technology.

Closomat’s Aerolet toilet lifter replicates the natural motion of sitting down and standing up, supporting and balancing the user whilst gently, automatically lowering and raising them over the WC. The company’s Vita range of wash & dry (automatic bidet) toilets feature integrated douching and drying: when the user remains seated, the warm water washing is triggered with the flush, followed by warm air drying.

It eliminates the need to wipe clean, and all its associated considerations of dexterity, balance, hand: body contact, and potential urinal or faecal cross-contamination of hands, body or clothing.

The entire range offers the best wash & dry performance available on the market.

Enquiries: Visit www.clos-o-mat.com

More affordable, more absorbent.

New incontinence range DEVELOPED over 12 months, Anov – the name of the new range, provides more absorption than leading incontinence brands and incorporates a variety of premium quality products.

Beaucare® Medical is the exclusive stockist and distributor of the new Anov incontinence range in the UK. It is estimated that incontinence affects between three and six million people in the UK. It affects both men and women of any age, but is more common in women.

The new Anov range includes products to suit all degrees of incontinence including Light Pads, Shaped Pads, Slips, Pull ups and Pants.

Operations director Heather Mawrey said: “We were aware that care home budgets were being squeezed and that residents’ comfort was key. We developed the new Anov range over 12 months with those factors in mind.”

To accompany the launch, Beaucare is providing care homes with full product training and support materials to help assess each patient for their individual requirements.

Contact Beaucare for more information plus a full comparison between the Anov product range and the leading brand.

Enquiries: Call 01423 873666, email sales@ beaucare.com or visit www.beaucare.com

54 SPONSORED BY

www.requiredsystems.com

Operator acknowledges staff at annual ceremony

By Dominic Musgrave NATIONAL care home operator Maria Mallaband Care Group and Countrywide Care Homes held its third annual awards recently.

The awards were created to acknowledge the efforts of staff and the impact they have on the lives of residents and their families.

Residents, colleagues, relatives and visitors placed votes across 14 categories.

Finalists were invited to a masquerade themed gala evening at the Aspire in Leeds, enjoying a drinks reception and dinner, followed by the awards presentation and ‘Regions Got Talent’ – a contest for staff to represent their region and share their hidden talents before a panel of judges.

Phil Burgan, chairman and CEO, said: “It’s always good to recognise the outstanding people

in the company who really make a difference.

“Unfortunately not everyone went home with an award, but everyone there was a winner.

“We are only as good as our staff.

They are the ones who create our success.”

Winners were: Head office hero – Andy Whitesmith (quality assurance manager); Dignity in care – Awatef Eloubaidi (Parkview House); Dementia champion – Ruth Sunter (Rosedale Nursing Home & Lodge); Activities – Lynsey Ralph (Earsdon Grange); Housekeeping high flyer – Margaret Magneron (Rose Lodge); Behind the scenes – Charlotte Capewell (Clarendon Court); Beyond the call of duty – Kelly Cowell (Kingsbury Court); End of life – Kirsty Green (Heeley Bank); Manager of the year – Merissa Meason (Thorntree Mews); Best newcomer – Ann-Marie Owen (Heeley Bank); Masterchef

Teens tackle isolation with new social action project

A GROUP of Chesterfield youths has been working with elderly care home residents to help reduce feelings of isolation.

The Future Foundations National Citizenship Service has been visiting Springbank House Care Home as part of their social action project.

Almost a dozen 15 to 17 year olds hosted pamper sessions and coffee mornings at the home and plan to maintain contact with residents by becoming pen pals.

Adam Walker a team leader at INGEUS, which operates the Future Foundations NCS Programme, said: “It was brilliant for our volunteers to find a care home that welcomed them in to spend time with the residents.

“The residents’ faces lit up when they were reading them poetry, as

they were going back through some of the things they remember from their earlier lives.

“The aim of their social action project was to reduce feelings of isolation among Chesterfield’s elderly, with both the volunteers and residents thoroughly enjoying it.”

Karen Busby, home manager at Springbank House, said: “When the group came to the home we invited them in to hear more about their project and it sounded fantastic.

“The group spent two days with the residents, running a number of activities as well as keeping them company and reading to them.

“We’re glad they want to maintain the friendships they built by becoming pen pals, which we’re happy to facilitate with the residents and their relatives.”

New Required Systems document download manager AN online, cloud-based system giving you instant access to the most up-to-date procedures and forms required to evidence compliance with the new CQC Fundamental Standards for England.

We provide all the policies, procedures, forms and audit tools you need to comply with legislation where you are based.

Enquiries: Call 01236 782477, visit www.requiredsystems.com or email peter@requiredsystems.com

– Lucy Goble (Bridge House); Hospitality hero – Lisa Etherington (White Rose Lodge); Nurse of the year – Jane Luck (Bowerfield Court) Home of the Year – Rose Lodge; Judges’

special award – Paolo Trinidad (registered nurse); Phil Burgan Award – Eleanor Armstrong (recruitment manager ) and John Housecroft (IT manager).

Improving older people’s lives is child’s play for new show RESIDENTS at a St Monica Trust retirement community took part in a ground breaking social experiment filmed by Channel 4.

Old People’s Home For 4 Year Olds aims to prove that bringing together retirement community residents and pre-school children can help transform the lives of the older volunteers for the better.

Eleven St Monica Trust residents and 10 children from local Bristol preschools were selected for the two-part programme with filming taking place over six-weeks at the Trust’s Cote Lane retirement community.

Based on the latest research from America, the old and young volunteers shared daily activities designed by three experts – a gerontologist, a geriatrician and a physiotherapist – who measured and analysed the older groups’ physical and mental progress throughout.

The St Monica Trust residents spoke openly about the issues facing older people, including their struggles with depression, lack of mobility and loneliness.

Yet in a series of extraordinary and moving scenes, the experiment shows

the transformative power that simply being around the children has for the older people.

Chief executive of the St Monica Trust, David Williams said: “Everyone at the St Monica Trust is extremely proud of our residents for the bravery they have shown in discussing so honestly the issues that affect older people.

“Seeing the benefits of this ground-breaking project has only strengthened the Trust’s desire to create open communities that actively encourage contact across different generations.

“As well building play areas at all of our sites, the Trust will establish a children’s nursery at the heart of one of our retirement communities.

“The St Monica Trust will also continue to nurture the wonderful relationships established by this project between our residents and the children of the local preschools.”

The St Monica Trust operates retirement communities across Bristol and North Somerset and its fifth retirement community, The Chocolate Quarter will open in Keynsham in October.

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Former carer opens her own business in Bolton

Page 56

Royal seal of approval for retirement wing

Page 58

Residential and dementia home officially opened

Page 59

Fifth care home underway for operator PETERBOROUGH Care is enjoying a period of expansion as it develops its fifth care home due to complete in July 2018.

Royal Bank of Scotland has supported the purpose-built development with a seven-figure funding package.

Thorpe Wood has been designed with dementia residents in mind.

The two-storey building will comprise of two households of 10 residents and two households of 15 residents, each with a lounge and open plan dining room at the centre, with en-suite bedrooms built around this facility.

Long corridors have been avoided in the architectural design to prevent further confusion for future residents suffering with this illness.

A hairdressing salon and cinema room will also be part of this prestigious development as well as a café on site that can be enjoyed by

both residents and their families.

The family run business will create 60 new jobs in the area, which will be a mixture of part time and full time roles.

This will add to the 170 employees across the group’s four existing facilities in the city.

A full time manager will be appointed to oversee the 24-hour care provided at Thorpe Wood.

Thorpe Wood will be the second purpose built home to be developed by the care operator, with The Maltings opening in 2014.

Ajay Marjara, director at Peterborough Care, said: “We have built up a successful business providing dedicated nursing and dementia care for our elderly residents.

“Thorpe Wood care home is slightly different as it has been designed to help us support our residents suffering with dementia when we

Graham Tallyn (Royal Bank of Scotland) with Peterborough Care directors Amar, Shammy and Ajay Marjara. fully open next year.

Thorpe Wood and we are delighted “We are fortunate enough to work to work in close partnership with John Cheliotis, who is the contracts in partnership with an excellent architect who specialises in the manager, and Eddie Jones ,who is the project manager. design of care homes and can easily accommodate all of our “Together, they are doing a great job requirements. for us and we have no doubt they will finish this development on time and “Wildgoose Construction is responsible for the construction of within budget.”

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Independent review to assess impact of EU migrants on the UK economy post-Brexit

By Kashif Majeed AN independent Home Office review has been initiated by the Government to allow employers to voice their concerns on the impact of EU migrants in their businesses postBrexit.

With the UK about to exit the European Union, the Migration Advisory Committee will investigate several factors ahead of the leave date of March 31, 2019.

The inquiry will assess the role of EU migrant workers and which sectors are most reliant on them.

The Government has promised a ‘transitional period’ post March 2019 so no employer will face “falling off a cliff edge.”

The factors to be assessed include whether British workers are at a disadvantage compared to cheaper labour from the EU. Do EU workers actually cost the UK billions in health care costs and benefits? Or are EU workers an important part of the UK workforce and fill gaps in vital services in health and social care?

Many care providers across the country have voiced concerns about the impact of Brexit in their area

identifying that the sectors of adult social care and health could be particular vulnerabilities if the EU workforce is reduced or lost.

It is clear that EU workers account for one in 15 workers.

They also contribute a sizeable amount to the economy, having paid £2.5bn more in income tax and national insurance than they received in tax credits or child benefits in 2013-14.

The Office for Budget Responsibility estimates that their labour contribution helps grow the economy by an additional 0.6 per cent a year.

The social care sector relies even more on non-UK nationals to keep services working.

Nearly one in five care workers were born outside of the UK (approximately 266,000 people), of whom 28 per cent were born in the EU. There was a particularly sharp increase in the number of migrant workers in the social care sector between 2011 and 2015: 40 per cent of EU workers arrived during this period.

However, according to Amber Rudd, the Home Secretary, the Government is committed to continuing to allow

Kashif Majeed those who add value to the country to come to Britain.

She stressed that: “We will ensure we continue to attract those who benefit us economically, socially and culturally.

“But, at the same time, our new immigration system will give us

control of the volume of people coming here – giving the public confidence we are applying our own rules on who we want to come to the UK and helping us to bring down net migration to sustainable levels.”

Official statistics show net longterm immigration by EU citizens at 133,000, a fall of more than a quarter on 2015.

Rudd says the migration study will be a chance for businesses and employers to express their honest opinions, independently of the government.

However, there will be little time to act on its findings – after it reports in 2018 there are just seven months until Britain leaves the EU. From that point on, EU citizens from other member states will have to apply for immigration status.

Some think-tanks have called for sector-by-sector rules to allow foreign workers to enter some industries but be barred from others where there is sufficient supply within the UK. In conclusion, it is vital that all care providers express their opinions and concerns to this independent review to ensure that their voice is heard. n Kashif Majeed is a director at Aston Brooke Solicitors.

Group expands its care operations SANCTUARY Group has expanded its portfolio of care homes with the purchase of 35 residential care homes and a supported living scheme from Embrace Group.

The homes, which are largely in Scotland and the North East, will dovetail with Sanctuary’s 68 existing care homes, which are mostly in the Midlands and South.

The 35 care homes currently operated by Embrace Group will bring the total number of bed spaces provided by Sanctuary Group to over 5,300.

The 1,800 staff members in these homes will become part of Sanctuary Group and will continue to deliver high standards of care to residents.

Sanctuary employs around 11,000 people at present.

David Bennett, Sanctuary’s Group chief executive, said: “Embrace Group shares with Sanctuary a commitment to good quality care for older people and has built a strong network of care

homes with a workforce of highly motivated employees.

“We were attracted to this exciting opportunity because it will enable us to make an even greater difference to the lives of older people around the country and will further our charitable objective.

“We have assembled our existing care portfolio through a mixture of acquisition, development and selfbuild and as such, we have extensive experience of integrations of this nature. We believe that experience combined with a complete dedication to caring for older residents will ensure that these homes are seamlessly brought into Sanctuary.”

Martin Gould, head of brokerage for Care at Christie & Co who handled the sale, added: “This off market transaction crystallises the market and demonstrates the strength and appetite for well performing portfolios that meet a strong compliance level.”

Solcare acquires 40-bed facility A 40 BED nursing home in Street, Arthur’s Court, has been purchased

by Solcare Ltd from Embrace Care Group.

Solcare Ltd was established in 2011 and is a family run business which already own a 13 bed residential care home, Sunnyside, in Chard, Somerset.

Purchasing a nursing home seemed the next logical step as

this would allow the two homes to complement each other.

It gives the residents the opportunity to move between the homes if their needs changed whilst receiving continuing care from an organisation they were already acquainted with.

It will provide nursing, palliative, respite and residential care for older people in a homely atmosphere.

SureCare’s Ali Zameer and Hasina Anwar with Mayoress Jaleh Hayes and Mayor, Councillor Roger Hayes.

Former carer opens her own business in Bolton A FORMER carer has opened her own business in Bolton and is looking to recruit more staff.

Hasina Anwar has bought the Bolton branch of SureCare, one of the UK’s fastest growing care companies.

The branch supplies people in the area with a range of dedicated care services including person centred care for the elderly and vulnerable, child care, home services and staffing solutions for care homes.

SureCare Bolton was officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Roger Hayes.

Hasina said: “I’m delighted to own and run the SureCare branch in Bolton. I want to offer care services with a difference and my plans for the branch include further

developing into the private market and children’s services.

“We currently have 65 dedicated staff but, because we are growing so quickly and we’re in such a busy area, I’m continually looking for more people to join our team.”

Hasina started her career 11 years ago as a carer before working her way up to being a supervisor and then a care manager.

She added: “Care is what I know best and I thrive over making a difference to people’s lives.

Recruiting the best staff who share my same work ethics, will enable SureCare Bolton to deliver the highest quality care.”

The branch already has an excellent reputation for going the extra mile for its customers.

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Village opens its doors

An artist’s impression of the new 60-bed care home.

State-of-the-art nursing home set for Eastbourne BUILDING Construction Partnership is constructing a state-of-the-art nursing home in Eastbourne.

BCP is converting a disused commercial site into a 60-bed care home surrounded by landscaped grounds.

The modern, three-storey building will provide en-suite accommodation and nursing care and support for 60 elderly residents, including people living with dementia.

Residents will be able to watch films in the cinema, catch up with friends and relatives in the café, borrow

BELONG Morris Feinmann, a new care village for the Jewish community, has opened its doors in Didsbury, South Manchester, welcoming residents and members to the new development.

Care provider Belong has partnered with the Morris Feinmann Homes Trust to create the new £12m facility, which will provide world leading dementia care and a range of related services.

The village comprises six households, each catering for 12 people in their own en-suite facilities, opening onto a private lounge, dining room and kosher kitchen. It also includes 13 new one and two-bedroomed independent living apartments

for rent or purchase, and a hub of facilities including a kosher bistro, synagogue, exercise studio and library. Care services, including home care, Experience Days (day care centred in the village amenities) and an Admiral Nurse service for people with dementia and their carers, will all be operated from Belong Morris Feinmann.

Deborah Baker, general manager of Belong Morris Feinmann, said: “It really is a state-of-the-art facility and we are sure that the new development will be popular in the Jewish community, not only in terms of care facilities and accommodation but also as the venue for a wide range of activities in the village centre.”

books from the library, and stroll through the communal gardens.

Brian Bullock, managing director of BCP, said: “We will be working with Eastbourne Borough Council to recruit and train local people during the construction of the care home, preparing the way for around 130 permanent and part-time jobs to be created in the local community.”

Construction is due to be completed in February and the care home is expected to welcome its first residents in the Spring.

HRH The Earl of Wessex at the opening of the new retirement home.

Royal seal of approval for retirement wing

By Dominic Musgrave A NEW multi-million pound, state-ofthe-art retirement home at Nautilus International’s Wallasey-based, Mariners’ Park Estate, welcomed its first residents following its royal unveiling.

The £2.7m Seafarers UK Centenary Wing – which includes £1.17m of funding from Seafarers UK – was formally opened by HRH The Earl of Wessex, who is also the President of Seafarers UK, and is an extension to the existing Trinity House Hub. The Wing has seen a further 22 apartments added, which will now offer accommodation to a maximum of 26 eligible residents.

The new apartments have been designed to meet the needs and requirements of retired mariners and includes a wet room and call alarm system. Additionally, two apartments have been set up specially for wheelchair users. In total, there are now 40 apartments in the Hub and new Wing combined.

Designed by Manchester-based architects Pozzoni, the Seafarers UK Centenary Wing enhances the range of accommodation offered by the Nautilus Welfare Fund: the registered charity administered by the Union.

Communal facilities have also been extended in the Hub – which was opened in 2014 by the Princess Royal

– including the creation of a new activities room that has been made available for the use of all Mariners’ Park residents.

Nautilus general secretary Mark Dickinson said: ‘We are delighted that the new Seafarers UK Centenary Wing is now open and ready for use.

“Nautilus has been protecting the interests of seafarers for 160 years, and supporting the increasing numbers of retired mariners and their dependents – in particular those over 75 and over 85 years – by providing additional purpose built accommodation, is a key priority for us.

‘These apartments allow 21st century care for our residents and it’s a testament to the likes of Seafarers UK and our architects – Pozzoni – that such a fresh and vibrant building will become home to so many people.’

Construction of the Seafarers UK Centenary Wing began in February 2016 and ended on June 8.

The new development is around 2,000 sq m in size with each apartment measuring approximately 70 sq m.

The Seafarers UK Centenary Wing and the Trinity House Hub are located at Mariners Park – a 16-acre parkland site situated on the banks of the River Mersey that boasts views across to the Liverpool waterfront.

59

Residential and dementia home officially opened

By Olivia Taylor GREAT Oaks, a new residential, nursing and dementia specialist care home located in Bournemouth, has officially opened its doors.

The luxurious 80-bed care home has opened following a successful CQC inspection and is ready to welcome residents to the home for residential, nursing, dementia and palliative care.

Short-term respite stays are also offered at the home, which is discreetly located within a private woodland setting.

The idyllic location of Great Oaks offers residents a restful atmosphere, which is enhanced by the landscaped garden; featuring raised flower beds and a vegetable patch, which greenfingered residents are welcomed to help maintain.

Great Oaks is a purpose-built care home with state-of-the-art facilities; designed to enable staff to provide the highest standard of 24-hour personalised care and ensure residents are comfortable and happy in their surroundings.

The architecture of Great Oaks has been designed with large windows and verandas to ensure a light and airy space is created throughout the home to promote healthy wellbeing.

All bedrooms are generously sized and create a spacious and bright place for residents to call home.

Each has a private en suite wet-room with movement-triggered lights,

BAKEWELL, DERBYSHIRE

Existing 18 bedroom care home & site for a new 60 bed care home

Great Oaks in Bournemouth. touch-sensitive lamps and underfloor heating.

Ian MacDonald, home manager of Great Oaks, said: ‘‘I am thrilled to welcome our first guests to Great Oaks. I lead an incredible team of care professionals and we’re proud to be able to offer such brilliant care facilities within a beautiful and secluded woodland area.

“Our doors are always open and visitors are welcome to pop in any time to meet the team, have a look around and enjoy the peacefulness of the landscaped gardens.’’

Great Oaks is managed by Encore Care Homes, which in partnership with the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, opened Fairmile Grange care home in Christchurch last year.

Features

• Prime Location Close To Bakewell Centre • Use Class C2 Residential Institutions • Stunning Panoramic Views • Detached Care Home For Development • Planning granted - New 60 Bed Care Home • Rare Development Opportunity • Peak Park Planning Reference NP/DDD/1110/1185 • Set Within Approx 18 Acres Stunning Grade II listed residential care home situated within approximately 18 acres of land, close to Bakwell town centre. Having planning in place for a redevelopment of the existing home into two large, luxury apartments AND for a new modern care home with sixty bedrooms, four communal living rooms and lift access to all floors. The site benefits from glorious panoramic views over Bakewell’s famous show grounds, this site is just a few minutes walk from the many amenities, shops, pubs and public transport links of Bakewell town centre.

P.O.A - PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION

YOUR MOVE ATTENBOROUGH & CO BELPER 2 Bridge Street, Belper, DE56 1AX

01773 825 456 • belper@your-move.co.uk

60

Home with planning guaranteed for sale STUNNING Grade II listed residential care home situated within approximately 18 acres of land, close to Bakewell town centre.

Having planning in place for a redevelopment of the existing home into two large, luxury apartments AND for a new modern care home with sixty bedrooms, four communal living rooms and lift access to all floors.

With glorious panoramic over Bakewell’s famous show grounds, this site is just a few minutes walk from the many amenities, shops, pubs and public transport links of Bakewell town centre.

The current owners require that the staff and residents of the current care home are transferred to the new facility, in so doing creating a good initial income when the site is complete and ready to open. n Use Class C2 residential institutions. n Detached care home for Development. n Planning passed – new 60 bed care home. n Set within approx 18 acres. n Prime location close To Bakewell centre. n Stunning panoramic views. n Rare development opportunity. n Planning Reference NP/ DDD/1110/1185. n £1,750,000 Coombs Road, Bakewell, DE45.

n 18 bedroom detached house for sale, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45.

Bakewell offers a wide range of shopping options, from traditional well known brands to boutique independent store and regular specialist markets.

The famous show grounds offer a range of events throughout the year, but if that all sounds a little too busy, there a few more picturesque towns to take relaxing stroll around.

Situated on the banks of the river Wye, Bakewell is the largest town in the Peak District National Park and it’s attractive architecture, medieval arched stone bridge and nurmerous courtyards attract artists and photographers as well as numerous sightseers.

62

CARINGNEWS

Inspiring better practice in care

Billy the assistance dog makes his online debut BILLY, a talented dog with a special job, is now sharing his adventures online as he trains to help people with dementia, mental illness or learning difficulties enjoy a full and active life.

His training has been funded by a monumental effort from the friends and colleagues of the late Billy Graham, a business development manager for Legrand Assisted Living & Healthcare’s Tynetec brand, and his wife Lisa, who were killed in the 2015 terror attack in Tunisia.

The couple had personal experience of the great work that Alzheimer’s Scotland does for dementia sufferers, including supporting his mother who also suffered from the disease.

All those who worked with Billy wanted to honour his memory and while talking with Alzheimer’s Scotland, heard about an initiative called the Dementia Dog Project, which trains talented dogs that can make a real difference to the lives of people in the community.

Billy’s Tynetec colleagues made the decision to raise £15,000 to fully sponsor a dog in his name.

They took part in a number of events including the Edinburgh Marathon, a 200-mile bike ride from the Grahams’ home town of Perth to Legrand Assisted Living & Healthcare’s Tynetec HQ in Blyth, Northumberland, and a quiz night at the company’s annual sales meeting.

In December 2016, the Dementia Dog Project was presented with a cheque for £15,975 to enable them to train Golden Labrador puppy Billy as a community assistance dog.

As Billy undergoes his training, his adventures and progress can be followed online at www. independentforlonger.com Independent for Longer is a website designed to give practical advice and support to individuals and families coping with disabilities and long-term health conditions who wish to remain living independently in their own homes.

The special website guides visitors to information and personal case studies on various Technology Enabled Care Services designed to help users maintain their independence. Tynetec, a brand of Legrand Assisted Living & Healthcare, is the company behind the platform.

National sales manager for Tynetec, Stuart Carroll, said: “Billy and Lisa were a wonderful couple; they had experience of the challenges families living with dementia face. They also loved dogs and were aware of how much joy they can bring even in the darkest times.

“We all agreed sponsoring Billy was an opportunity to remember some special people in a way that we hope would make them smile and also make a real difference to the lives of others in their time of need.”

CARE Roadshow Cardiff, taking place on October 17 at Cardiff City Stadium, will attract care home professionals looking to source new products and services, share best practice and extend their network.

For care practitioners in Wales and the surrounding areas, the event offers the opportunity to hear from national level speakers on topics that directly affect you.

The line-up includes Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales, Care Forum Wales and headline sponsors, Quality Compliance Systems.

The informative seminar programme is free to attend across the day, providing visitors the chance to gain insightful access to knowledge that will in turn help you achieve improved care.

The programme has been carefully tailored to meet the needs of local providers.

Ed Watkinson, director of care quality at Quality Compliance Systems, will explore the

interchangeable use of the words ‘leadership’ and ‘management’ and what it means to be a ‘well- led’ service.

Examples will be given to help you widen your understanding and what is expected of you by the regulator.

Following on from Ed, Melanie Minty will highlight the major challenges facing providers, from the continuing impact of the National Living Wage to the impact of the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care Act, and how we need to address the issues together.

There will also be the opportunity to attend practical workshops throughout the day hosted by Carrie Twist, focusing on the power of music, creative reminiscence and responsive materials that can be implemented into your care settings.

The event will have a dedicated exhibition of care sector specific products and services including Educ8, Social Care Wales and Med e-care and apetito.

Scott wins annual ‘Achiever’s Award’ THE annual ‘Achiever’s Award’ presentation has taken place at The Manor House Nursing Home, Chatburn.

The award was presented to the chosen team members in recognition for ‘going the extra mile’.

Residents, relatives, and visitors were able to nominate their chosen member of staff over a period of a

couple of months. 35 different team members in total were nominated.

Scott Neilson from the maintenance team won the prestigious shield, with care workers Lisa Wightman and Dee Zvirbliene as runners up.

The award originated five years ago in memory of Karen Walker, the home’s training manager for 16 years, who died from cancer.

Paper records are a thing of the past CareDocs is an innovative computerbased care planning and home management system for care homes that makes planning simple.

It enables a wide range of crucial information to be edited and found quickly and easily, minimising paperwork and maximising the time your staff can devote to caring for residents.

Already being used by more than 500 care homes, CareDocs is easy to

use, and ensures the smooth running of your care home.

The system simplifies day-to-day responsibilities and allows users to view, add or amend documents in a matter of moments.

Having CareDocs in your care home saves you time, makes sure all aspects of your care home are being managed thoroughly and also assures you that all of your information and records are stored safely and securely.

Soap star visits hotel THE New Mayfair Hotel hosted it’s Soap Star Special midweek break, which proved really popular, with a lot of our regular guests returning for more fun and photos to add to their Safehands holidays photo album.

Starting the night we had our fantastic resident entertainer Nicole Jordan singing some happy holiday songs to get our guests singing and dancing ready for our special night.

Alison King has been one of Coronation Streets favourite character’s for over 10 years, having many different relationships and ups and downs as her on-screen character Carla Connor. Operations manager Karen Dixon was confident the guests would not mind that she was no longer in the show.

The moment Alison arrived the guests bombarded her with various questions about her character.

After the questions Alison walked round and had her photograph taken with all the guests, which were available the following day in a signed holiday presentation card.

Alison continued the night by engaging with the guests and hotel, staff answering their questions and dancing, while Nicole interacted with all our guests, singing and dancing.

The next soap star special is at the Esplanade Hotel in Llandudno from October 23 to 27.

To book and receive a special Caring UK discount of £50 off per person, contact our reservations team today on 0333 999 8888.