Caring UK September 2018

September 2018

no.263 • £4.75 incorporating The Number One magazine for the care sector

Candlelight Care staff enjoy local discounts

New campaign aims to tackle malnutrition

By Dominic Musgrave

HOME Instead Senior Care is launching an initiative to tackle malnutrition in Britain’s older generations, as new research shows almost three in 10 (27 per cent) over 75s don’t think they need to eat as much now they are older.

Half of over 75s eat smaller meals and more than a third (34 per cent) regularly skip meals (i.e. once a week or more), with 10 per cent saying they do not have as much money to spend on food and 12 per cent losing weight as a result of getting older, according to the independent research commissioned by the national homecare provider.

The new YouGov survey of 1,013 adults aged 50+ across Britain was commissioned after previous Home Instead research found that more than a quarter (26 per cent) of people looking for homecare support for elderly relatives were worried about what, how much and with who their relatives were eating – making it their biggest worry.

In response Home Instead is launching the national Stay Nourished campaign, designed in consultation with specialists at Bournemouth University’s Ageing and Dementia Research Centre. It will help families and CAREGivers understand the importance of nutrition, how to spot malnutrition in the elderly and help dispel

misconceptions around diet and appetite as we age.

According to other research, around one-in-10 (about 1.3 million) older people in the UK are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition – with malnutrition costing the NHS an estimated £19.6bn a year.

Martin Jones, MD of Home Instead, said: “Food and nutrition play such an important role in our wellbeing and health – particularly as we get older. Malnutrition is a serious issue, which is compounded by, and exacerbates, other serious health issues often experienced by older people.

“Becoming malnourished is a significant threat to health as we age and the research shows this is a concern for families across the country. Food and nutrition isn’t just a personal responsibility. We can all help by recognising when someone is struggling to prepare meals themselves, or when they are losing interest in eating.

“By knowing what to look out for, and what nutrition requirements look like, we can help ensure our elderly relatives stay nourished and hydrated, keeping them healthy and out of hospital. We have 190 offices across the UK and we’re encouraging people in these communities to learn about correct nutrition for elderly care and to have the confidence to discuss food and eating with their relatives.”

Cheryl Baker, singer with eighties pop legends Bucks Fizz, was the guest of honour at the official opening of a new care home in Eastbourne. Beechwood Grove provides residential, nursing, memory and respite care in 58 en-suite rooms. Cheryl cut the ribbon to officially declare it open before enjoying a tour with home manager Jeff Levine, and chatting to the first residents and invited guests which included local GPs, solicitors, neighbours of the home and members of Eastbourne’s Women’s Institute. The purpose-built home, run by Oakland Care, offers residents a bistro, cinema room, hair and beauty salon, landscaped gardens and a terrace with panoramic views of the South Downs.

A GLASTONBURY care company is taking steps to reduce costs for its staff in their everyday lives.

Candlelight Care chairman Peter Lugg has worked with a number of local businesses to secure discounts for them on everything from haircuts to tyres, mobile phones, takeaways and gym membership.

He said: “The care sector has been under significant financial pressure for many years and although our rates of pay are comparable to other providers, we would naturally like to be able to pay our staff more for the wonderful work which they do.

“We hope by arranging discounts for them at various local companies, their pay packets will stretch a little further.”

Candlelight Care celebrates its 30th anniversary in the autumn, and will be inviting representatives from the local businesses involved in its staff discount scheme to the event to thank them for their support.

Candlelight Care is a family-run company offering homecare and live in care services in Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and East Sussex.

With a head office in Glastonbury, Somerset, it has been awarded the Investors in People Bronze standard for its commitment to developing its staff.

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CARINGNEWS

Don’t throw ‘good money after bad’ urges social care leader A PROPOSED new income tax to fund elderly social care would be “throwing good money after bad” unless there’s radical reform of the whole system, it has been claimed.

The idea for the tax of between one per cent and three per cent was recommended in a report by economist Professor Gerard Holtham, which was commissioned by the Welsh Government.

Mario Kreft MBE, the chair of Care Forum Wales, which represents nearly 500 social care providers, welcomed the report as an “important contribution” to the debate about funding.

While the prospect of extra funding would be welcome, Mario fears that just pumping more money into the current set-up would not solve the chronic problems besetting the health and social care sector.

The only long term answer was a fundamental “root and branch review” to find new and better ways of integrating health and social care as was proposed in a recent Parliamentary review.

According to the report, a social care tax could mean people in their 50s would pay four times more than those in their 20s.

The Welsh Government pointed out Professor Holtham’s findings would form part of ongoing work to examine future funding of social care.

Mario Kreft Professor Holtham said an unfair burden must not be placed on younger generations in order to subsidise the elderly.

He said: “The steep rise in house prices and the ending of free higher education has left younger generations no better and sometimes worse off than their elders were at the same time of life,” he added.

“There is an argument therefore for levying tax rates that depend on age cohort as well as income.

“Doing so could improve intergenerational fairness and it would mean that people pay more at a time of life when they are more conscious of the need to make provision for old-age care.”

Mario described the issue of how to fund social care as the “challenge of the age” at a time when Wales was expecting a 120 per cent increase in the number of people aged over 85 by the year 2035.

He said: “We certainly welcome the report because we really do need a serious conversation in Wales about how we’re going to fund future care services.

“It’s not just about older people, it’s about how we as a society sustain our NHS and community-based services but we can’t be too simplistic in our approach.

“Throwing extra money generated by a new tax into the existing pot is not going to solve it.

“We don’t want more of the same – we need a new vision for the future with properly integrated services.

“We’ve actually got to radically reform the way we deliver services and how we integrate services in Wales.

“Without that reform, we would be throwing good money after bad.”

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CARINGNEWS

Providers seek new horizons for the future

Resident Ken Honeybun with entertainer Jayne Darling.

Home marks D-Day with its own Normandy veteran RESIDENTS at a Derby residential and nursing home took a trip down memory lane as they marked D-Day with the help of their very own Normandy veteran.

Sanctuary Care’s The Laurels hosted a commemorative Normandy landing D-Day event, which 74-years ago, one of the home’s residents Ken Honeybun was a key part of.

Ken was born in 1925 in Derby, and joined the King’s own Yorkshire Light Infantry Regiment in the early 1940s – lying about his age in order to enlist early.

The Normandy landing during World War II was the largest seaborne invasion in history and began the liberation of German-occupied northwestern Europe.

Ken, whose regiment landed at Sword Beach, is now one of fewer than 500 surviving Normandy veterans.

Following the war, Ken was awarded the French Legion d’Honneure medal, the highest decoration in France, in recognition for his service during the liberation of France.

Displaying his medals, Ken shared tales of the landing and his time in the army, along with six members of the British Legion and three ladies who were bus conductresses during the war who also shared their stories of British wartime.

Sanctuary Care regional manager Sean Hather said: “The stories told were simply marvellous – it was a lovely way to mark such an important event in our residents’ lives.

“It’s so important to remember and recognise the contribution our residents made to the war effort, whether they were working in a factory, dedicating their time to their children or even on Sword Beach in Normandy.”

CARE providers will learn how harnessing the power of robotics and technology can open up a brave new world for them when they gather for a major conference.

The Independent Care Group will host its annual conference and exhibition in Harrogate on November 21, and organisers are urging care providers to sign up now to attend.

The theme for the conference, to be held at the Pavilions of Harrogate, will be Innovation in Social Care. It will focus on the latest advancements, in particular how new technology, including robotics, will aid the delivery of care, alongside the latest developments in hydration and nutrition, surroundings and wellbeing, health and safety, and person-centred software.

The Group’s chair, Mike Padgham said: “This is a very challenging but exciting period for social care at the moment with new technology opening up huge opportunities and changes in the way we care for older and vulnerable adults.

“By using technology, in particular robotics, we will be able to remove some of the routine, repetitive tasks and free up staff to do what they do best, interact with, stimulate and care for our older residents.

“The opportunities are exciting and we are really looking forward to the conference and to learning how we can all improve the future.”

Organisers have lined up some key speakers for the event, including former Care Services Minister Paul Burstow, now chair of SCIE. He will be joined by Dr Ben Maruthappu, a British physician, academic researcher, health policy specialist and entrepreneur. He is the co-founder and CEO of Cera, a tech-enabled homecare company and also co-founded the NHS Innovation Accelerator, a programme to progress the adoption of new healthcare treatments and technologies.

Another key speaker will be Dr Sanjeev Kanoria, CEO of Advinia Healthcare, a growing care home operator.

The company has 38 homes, putting it into the top 10 private care providers in the UK. The group has won several awards for innovation and quality care. Advinia is at the forefront of using technology in care and recently they launched culturally sensitive robots to help dementia residents.

BBC television personality Harry Gration will chair the conference and The Guardian’s social affairs editor David Brindle and the BBC’s social affairs editor Alison Holt will also be among the speakers.

At the moment the Independent Care Group is signing up exhibitors for the accompanying exhibition, as well as taking bookings from delegates.

Caring duo reach the summit for charity A RADFIELD Home Care Stafford branch member faced an enormous challenge for charity, under the most difficult conditions.

Field coordinator Sonya Cole and her mum Jean climbed Snowdon in support of the Alzheimer’s Society.

The charity is dear to Sonya as her ‘Nanny June’ suffers from vascular dementia, and it was Sonya’s wish to raise as much money as she possibly could.

Sonya created a ‘Just Giving’ page and to date, with other sponsors has managed to raise £650.

The ladies arrived in Wales the night before the challenge, and kept Radfield Home Care up to date with the challenge they faced.

Sonya said: “When we arrived and got unpacked, mum realised that she had forgotten her walking boots, but she explained that it was not going to stop her and she carried on regardless.

“We definitely needed to pack plenty of waterproof clothing as the forecast was for rain, although we were told that there was snow at the

summit, and it looked beautiful.”

Sonya’s mum Jean had a fall as the conditions became more challenging.

She badly hurt her hand, but she didn’t give up and again carried on regardless.

At the summit the ladies met some very inspirational people, all with a compelling reason for wanting to take the challenge of Snowdon on.

Sonya added: “The cold air came in and the snow and hail was coming down, but we still kept going. I was so pleased that I went and bought myself a new coat and hat. We had so many layers on as we had been told it could be as cold as -4 degrees, and it was.”

“We met and walked with some wonderful people, all of whom had an inspiring reason to raise money for their own charity and it was wonderful to be a part of something so special. All of my friends at Radfield were so supportive, and my aim for next year will be for a Radfield team to face the challenge, and hopefully raise further awareness and money for this fantastic charity.”

Group scoops six awards SOUTHERN Healthcare’s four homes attended the first Outstanding Care Awards Devon and Cornwall event held at the Livermead House Hotel in Torquay recently.

The Outstanding Care Awards were created to ‘celebrate the most dedicated individuals, providers and suppliers in the care industry across Devon and Cornwall’.

Hundreds of nominations were considered by six judges with various backgrounds in the care industry, and filtered down to the finalists.

Throughout the evening the four homes celebrated as they collected award after award, receiving six in total.

Sefton Hall took home the Gold award for Dementia Initiative and The Old Rectory received the bronze award in Commitment to Training and Development, the silver award in Dementia Initiative and the Gold award in Activity Organiser of the Year.

Parkwood House achieved a Bronze award for Team of Excellence and The Seaton won the Silver Award for Catering Team of the Year.

Operations manager for the group, Paul Courtney, said: “We are delighted that the hard work, dedication and commitment of our outstanding teams has been recognised with these six fabulous awards.”

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CARINGNEWS

Home’s residents take part in dementia design exhibition A BIRMINGHAM University student has been working with the staff and residents at Spencer Grove in Belper to create a project focussed on design and dementia.

Textiles, print and surface design student Ellie Stanton has been selected to display her work, alongside 16 other students at London’s New Designers Exhibition. Every item created and printed for the project and exhibition was done so with the input of the care home’s residents.

Ellie’s project ‘Forget me Not’ looks at how to create balance through design for care home residents with and without dementia. It is all about designing for care homes and dementia, creating positive and aesthetically pleasing environments for residents with diverse needs.

“The whole experience was really interesting, and

Ellie Stanton I thoroughly enjoyed every element of this project.” said Ellie. “It was really fun to work for a ‘client’ and get feedback from the residents during this whole process.”

Created through a collaborative consultation process with residents at Spencer Grove, the collection offers designs that are uplifting and stimulating for some, as well as some that are traditional and not over-stimulating for others.

Ellie added: “The residents were extremely helpful and insightful, and it was really interesting to find out about their wants and needs as well as their personal design taste.”

Looking at colour, pattern and texture as well as proportions, distance and tones, Ellie created a range of fabrics for care homes based on her findings.

Her final exhibition includes varied textures, softer flowers, digitally printed wallpapers, cushion

covers and a chair re-upholstered in dementiafriendly embossed fabrics. These were all created using the residents’ chosen colours, tones and suggestions.

Ellie first got involved with Spencer Grove after getting in touch with Amanda Falleth, interior co-ordinator for Milford Care. Throughout her project, Ellie created sketchbooks and design books to show the residents, who were integral in selecting every detail.

“This has been a fantastic experience for all involved and we are thrilled with the results,” said Amanda.

“The residents have really enjoyed being a part of this work and seeing their ideas come to life.

“Having the residents as the focal point for Ellie’s work has not only produced fantastic results but it has given the residents the feeling of independence and choice which is always so important for us to keep.

“We are so happy for Ellie that her hard work has got the recognition it deserves, and we wish her all the best for the final exhibition in London.”

Ellie’s research had some interesting results.

There was an overall agreement between residents that they all preferred traditional prints and nothing too modern. Vintage prints and oldfashioned florals were some of the favourite choices.

Through the research conducted for her project, Ellie found that the use of colour can be a delicate balance to strike right. Clever use of colour is important to highlight chair edges.

Through Ellie’s own research at Spencer Grove, she found that residents wanted and enjoyed colour – especially bright vibrant choices, because of the happy and uplifting mood created.

Angela returns to home as manager Nine employees from Hallmark Care Homes’ central support office in Billericay, Essex walked 62 miles in two days, raising £13,700 for Alzheimer’s Research UK. The developments team led by construction director James Rowntree walked the gruelling 100km in 31-degree heat from Putney Bridge to the operator’s new site in Henley on Thames. They tackled the momentous challenge to raise awareness and funds to fuel life-changing dementia research as part of the care provider’s commitment to raise £50,000 for the charity this year. James said: “It was a difficult challenge but despite the blisters and adverse weather conditions we all made it past the finishing line.”

Animals fuel the fun at home

RESIDENTS at Corbrook Park Nursing Home in Audlem, Cheshire, were treated to a Country Show themed afternoon in aid of St Luke’s Hospice.

Animals were at the forefront of the show, with residents enjoying time with farm favourites including piglets, silkie chickens and rabbits.

A dog show kept the crowd entertained.

While tucking into some BBQ food, residents joined in with ‘The Singing Farmer’ who delivered some great

entertainment for all.

Vintage tractors and cars were also available for everyone to view, stimulating residents’ fond memories.

Tracey Williams, social life coordinator at the Morris Care operated home, said: “Our residents love the countryside and so it was a great day enjoyed by all.

“The sense of satisfaction we all feel when we have been able to bring something different to their schedule is brilliant.”

ANGELA Riley has been appointed manager of Balhousie Ruthven Towers care home in Auchterarder.

She is returning to Ruthven Towers, having been deputy manager at the care home until late 2017.

Angela has worked in the care industry for many years, predominately as a support worker and then service manager working closely with adults with learning disabilities.

After a short career break, she is taking her first manager position in a care home environment.

Angela’s appointment follows an exciting period for the Perthshire care home, affectionately referred to as a ‘Care Hotel’ by residents and their families, which recently achieved Grade 6 ratings from the Care Inspectorate, the highest gradings in the industry, for ‘Care and Support’ and ‘Management and Leadership’.

Since re-joining Ruthven Towers, Angela has been re-connecting with residents, their families and staff, and overseeing a programme to develop team leadership roles within the home.

She said: “I am so excited to have returned to Balhousie Ruthven Towers, this time to manage the care home.

“There is an incredible team of

Angela Riley people here who are passionate about providing the very best of care and it is wonderful to have the opportunity to lead such an enthusiastic and talented group.

“The residents and their families have given me a lovely warm welcome too so I already feel like I have settled in.

“Jozi Stables, Ruthven Towers’ previous manager, did an amazing job here and I hope to continue many of the great initiatives she introduced, from developing intergenerational projects in the local community to building on the outstanding Care Inspectorate gradings.”

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CARINGNEWS

In the first of a two-part series, Laura Hannah, associate solicitor and regulatory law expert at national law firm Stephensons, looks at the wider issues around registration for Care Quality Commission regulated bodies.

Registering for CQC regulated bodies IT was recently reported that an 82-year-old woman was permitted to register as a manager of a 25-bed care home for elderly residents by the Care Quality Commission in 2010, despite the inspectorate’s knowledge of her previous conviction for which she received a jail sentence in 2003 after deceiving a client of £9,000 in her previous role as a ‘financial advisor’.

It is reported that it was only a matter of years after leaving prison that she was appointed as a manager of a care home, where she had obtained employment as a carer following the completion of her sentence. This role involved her caring for residents with dementia.

In 2014, she moved to a different home where she again successfully registered as manager with the CQC, who were subsequently contacted by a whistle blower earlier this year to question the appropriateness of her registration in light of her previous conviction.

The CQC is the independent regulator for adult social care services in England and its purpose, as stated on its website, is to “make sure health and social care services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate, high-quality care”.

The CQC is responsible for the registration, monitoring and

Laura Hannah inspection of any persons or services registered to carry on regulated activities.

The application process Before an application can even be submitted to the CQC, the person applying must obtain a CQC countersigned DBS as the disclosure number is required for submission.

This is to check that the person applying is not barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

Where a company is applying to be registered as provider, a CQC DBS check will need to be undertaken for all directors.

While a Nominated Individual

does not require a CQC DBS check, providers must carry out their own DBS check and may be required to provide evidence of this during the registration process. It is also important to note that any DBS certificate received must not be over 12 months old at the time the application is submitted and validated.

In our experience, these applications will be returned immediately to the applicant and will not be reconsidered until a new, up-to-date DBS is obtained. In some cases, this can often delay an application as it can take a number of weeks before a DBS is received.

For new providers, this means that they are prevented from carrying out regulated activities for a longer period and for managers, it could potentially affect any job offer received.

It is not uncommon for applications for registration to be returned by the CQC a number of times during their initial checks, usually due to minor errors with the completion of the relevant forms. A common error is where the provider and manager applications do not match; this can include the regulated activities applied for, the location details or even incomplete provider details.

Within an application, an applicant

must provide full details of their employment history, as well as contact details for their GP and a professional referee, preferably from their most recent employer.

The applicant must also make a declaration that they are medically fit to carry out their role.

It is extremely important that the applicant considers this declaration very carefully as any evidence of dishonesty will be taken seriously by the CQC and will have a significant impact on their registration decision.

The key to any application is full disclosure; if there are any factors which an applicant is concerned about, disclosure of those factors at an early stage would place them in the best possible position.

Any attempt to conceal these factors is only likely to lead to a negative decision on the registration or lead to cancellation of the registration and/ or potential criminal enforcement later down the line.

In this recently reported case, the manager had been open and honest to the CQC and her employer throughout the entire registration process and the CQC were therefore already aware of her previous conviction at the time the whistleblowing complaint was made earlier this year.

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CARINGNEWS

Juliet planning to ‘ring the changes’

A 92-year-old volunteer has retired after 14 years’ service at a Middlesbrough care home. Marie Toombs started volunteering at The Gables after her aunt, a former resident, passed away. Impressed with the end-of-life care her aunt received, Marie wanted to give something back to the home. Not a resident herself, she frequently traveled to the home to organise and help run activities, as well as enjoy a chat and a cuppa. The staff and residents presented her with cards, a cake and jewellery as a thank you for her volunteering.

Team tackle charity challenge A CARING team tackled a 10k obstacle course and raised more than £2,000 for charity.

Sixteen members of the Warrington-based national office of Home Instead Senior Care took on the game-show inspired ‘Rough Runner’ which features challenges including a 40-metre water slide and travellator.

The money raised will go to Home Instead’s dedicated charity ‘The Bring Joy Foundation’ which exists to bring the joy and fun back into ageing.

The charity raises money to fund

the little things that can make a difference to older people’s lives such as day trips to the seaside or vintage tea dances.

Home Instead managing director Martin Jones said: “Our team did a fantastic job completing the challenge and I’m incredibly proud that everybody pitched in together to complete the obstacles – especially the tough ones.

“Caring for older people at home is at the heart of what we do and so it’s only right that we raise money for such a good cause.”

PEOPLE living with dementia at a specialist nursing home in Yeovil are being introduced to the regular delights of a tea-dance at Sherborne’s Café Baglioni, thanks to a determination to ‘ring the changes’ by new activities co-ordinator Juliet Bannister.

Juliet has recently started working with dementia care specialists Camelot Care at Acacia Nursing Home, and already has an exciting programme of activities planned.

She said: “I love dancing, and I’ve seen how it can bring people out of their shells, so when Baglioni agreed to organise tea-dances for the people we support, I knew that idea would be a winner – and it is!”

Bread-making is another new activity for many of the residents, while for others it allows them to resurrect a skill that may not have been exercised for a while.

“Bread-making is an activity which appeals to the senses,” Juliet added.

“The kneading is rhythmic and physical, and the smell and taste of newly-baked bread is irresistible.

Our residents find the whole process deeply satisfying.”

Other outings being organised for residents are excursions to favourite local carvery restaurants for Sunday lunch, and evening visits to the pub.

Juliet also plans to take them on trips to the local garden centre, and

Juliet Bannister with residents at Acacia. to support those with an interest in gardening to work on the borders of the gardens at Acacia.

Born and bred in Yeovil, Juliet has recently returned to the town after 28 years living in Cornwall.

Running a playgroup, raising a severely autistic son and experience of working with people with dementia in Cornwall, have together helped Juliet develop a creative approach to caring and making the most of life, whatever challenges it presents.

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CARINGNEWS

New garden for the elderly is a treat for the senses A NEW sensory garden for local residents and particularly people living with dementia to enjoy has been officially opened in Spalding.

The purpose-built garden at Cedar Falls, which is part of Tanglewood Care Homes, was opened by Rt Hon John Hayes MP, who represents South Holland and The Deepings.

Residents and their families were joined by staff, contractors, the community health team and members of the public at a party to celebrate the new garden.

The Cedar Falls Community Garden Project has been carefully designed to take into consideration the needs of those living with dementia, and it will be open to members of the public as well as residents.

Tracy Ann Shelbourn, founder and director of Tanglewood Care Homes, said: “The Cedar Falls Community Garden Project is one of our most ambitious outdoor projects to date and it will be open for all Cedar Falls residents to enjoy as well as visitors from the surrounding communities.

“All too often people living in residential care settings do not have access to safe environments where they can spend time independently outdoors, particularly people living with dementia.

“I’d like to thank everyone who’s helped bring this project to completion, especially the staff here

Deputy manager Beverley Ellis receives a bouquet of flowers from proprietor Brian Jones and HR manager Natalie Marshall.

Long service celebrated Resident Betty Spencer, Nike Ajiwole (Dementia Specialist at Tanglewood), Tracy Shelbourn (founder of Tanglewood), Karen Wakefield (care assistant at Cedar Falls) and Rt Hon John Hayes (MP for South Holland and The Deepings) at the opening. at Cedar Falls, the residents and their n A flower planting and vegetable families, and all the designers and growing area that has been contractors who have worked with us. carefully curated to provide sensory “The garden looks absolutely stimulations ranging from scent to beautiful in the sunshine and we look touch to taste. forward to welcoming families across n Flexi-pave resin-bound surfacing Lincolnshire who have been touched which is suitable for wheelchairs. by dementia in some way to come n Gazebo space for private relaxation with family members, suitable for all and enjoy this new space.” weathers.

Key features of the new sensory n Bird-friendly area with feeding garden include: tables. n Pergola walkways offering a n Multiple entrances to allow 360-degree sensory experience for residents to come and go people at all heights and mobility independently. preferences.

HOLLYBANK Care Home in North Wales has celebrated the 25th anniversary of its deputy manager, Beverley Ellis joining the team.

She began her career at Hollybank in June 1993 and within a short space of time worked her way up to deputy manager position.

Beverley’s role includes leading and managing the care team on a day to day basis to ensure the best care possible is delivered to every resident.

Manager Jacqui Jones said: “Beverley is a respected and valued deputy manager and has dedicated the majority of her working life to Hollybank and our residents.

“Beverley always goes above and beyond for our residents and we feel honoured to have had 25 years’ hard work, loyalty and commitment.”

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CARINGNEWS

Home blossoms thanks to generous donation

Residents at a Yeovil nursing home have taken part in an initiative to get children exploring, by looking for painted rocks around the local area. Residents at The Knoll decided to get involved in ‘Yeovil Rocks’ by painting their own rocks, which staff then hid at Ninesprings park. When youngsters find the rocks they then re-hide them, and also paint rocks to hide themselves. In Yeovil a Facebook page, ‘Yeovil Rocks’, has been set up so people can share photographs of the rocks they have found. Joanna McLaughlin, manager of The Knoll, said: “The ‘rocks’ initiative is a simple yet wonderful idea, which appeals to all ages. Our residents are really enjoying painting the rocks and waiting to see if they are found, and we have promised a prize to the staff member and resident whose rock is found furthest away!”

FAIRMILE Grange has been chosen by a renowned London-based florist to receive a selection of flower arrangements to display in the Christchurch care home.

All for Love, which has previously worked with Jimmy Choo, Harpers Bazar, and many other prestigious brands, set up its charity ‘Loved Again’ in 2017.

Since then, the charity regularly donates flowers from its events to local charities and mental health initiatives.

Following the marriage of Tamara Keefe, an All for Love employee, to her husband Dean Goodwin in Highcliffe Castle recently, she chose to donate their flowers to the residents of the Encore Care Homes operated facility.

When the flowers arrived at Fairmile Grange the morning after Tamara’s wedding, residents and members of the care team worked together to arrange a variety of bouquets, which the residents placed throughout the home.

Mary Maughan-Otten, home manager, added: “Flowers are not only a fantastic way to brighten someone’s day but flower arranging also provides cognitive and sensory stimulation.

“It’s a lovely, soothing activity and

a great opportunity for socialising.

So many of our residents thoroughly enjoyed sitting down together and creating different arrangements, which were personal to them.

“We always really appreciate kind

gestures from the community, which bring so many smiles to our residents’ faces.

We are very grateful to Tamara and the team at All for Love for donating the beautiful flowers to us.”

Operator appoints a new head of human resources

BOROUGH Care has appointed Jayne Hennessey as its new head of human resources.

The operator is the largest notfor-profit provider of care for older people in Stockport and has 11 homes across the borough.

In her new role heading up the human resources team, Jayne will be responsible for strategic planning.

This will include putting together a plan to link talent mapping and succession planning with continuous improvement.

She will also be in charge of updating programmes in the areas of employee engagement and training, along with rewards and benefits.

Jayne is also keen to increase engagement with the local community, to bolster Borough Care’s pool of volunteers.

She said: “I’m looking forward to

“I’m looking forward to reviewing Borough Care’s current human resources processes and making any necessary improvements, as the company goes through a period of organisational change.”

Jayne Hennessey reviewing Borough Care’s current human resources processes and making any necessary improvements, as the company goes through a period of organisational change.

“I was attracted to the role as I believe the care sector for older people is still widely viewed as one that predominately attracts females and historically offers low paid jobs.

“I am keen to change these perceptions by working with schools, educational institutions and local communities, to highlight the importance of the sector at a time when our ageing population continues to increase, and promote the wide range of employment opportunities available.”

Jayne has joined Borough Care from SharpFutures Manchester CIC, a social enterprise that supports young people into employment in the digital creative and tech sectors.

Alyson Martin presents Joy Upham with a bouquet of flowers.

Volunteer Joy thanked for 25 years’ service NYNEHEAD Court gave a special ‘thank you’ to one of its Friends who has volunteered at the home for 25 years.

Joy Upham began volunteering at the home in 1993 and visits every Thursday, with Anne Howe to open the residents’ shop.

Although she now lives in Taunton she still makes the journey to the home every week, and in addition to buying general items she will also purchase anything specific which the residents have requested.

Alyson Martin, director of Nynehead Court, presented Joy with a bouquet

of flowers to thank her for her service.

There may be more recognition to come, as Joy and her fellow members of the ‘Friends of Nynehead Court’ have been nominated for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Home manager Angela Watkins said: “We are delighted to be able to thank Joy for her incredible 25 years as a volunteer at Nynehead Court.

“I know the residents value her support as much as we do, and are hoping that she and the rest of the Friends of Nynehead Court are successful in our application for the Queen’s Award.”

CARINGNEWS

Group to remove over a million pieces of plastic each year A CARE operator is to remove more than a million single-use plastic items from its operations every year.

Colten Care has counted the total from the response by its homes and support departments to the launch of a campaign aimed at eradicating throwaway plastic.

Altogether, the use of 1,161,124 plastic items will be avoided each year by choosing more environmentally friendly materials.

Since the ‘Caring without plastic’ campaign began in April, residents, families, staff and suppliers have all got on board with ideas for action.

Twenty nursing and residential homes in Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and Sussex, including five dementia-specific settings, are involved.

Project lead Tim Wookey said: “Just weeks ago we became the first major provider in the UK’s private care home sector to begin a groupwide reduction of single-use plastic, not only on the clinical side but throughout all our activities.

“The response since then has been amazing and just goes to show that everyone, whatever their age or role, has a shared interest in protecting the environment.”

Yearly across the group, single-use plastic will be avoided by: n Laundry staff replacing 4,800 latex

gloves with washable re-usable ones. n Homes swapping 260,000 disposable drinking cups situated by water coolers with recyclable paper ones. n Housekeepers using trolley containers to dispose of daily rubbish from residents’ rooms instead of 365,000 bin bags. n Carers and catering staff replacing 499,000 single-use drinking straws with fully biodegradable ones. n Housekeepers adopting antibacterial ‘magic water’ dispensers instead of 19,000 bottles of cleaning liquid sprays.

In addition, Colten’s coffee suppliers now pack their fresh batch-roasted beans in biodegradable, non-plastic packaging, saving 1,300 plastic bags a year.

And the group’s gardening team are adopting re-usable plant pots for their seedlings, saving 7,500 plant pots.

As well as initiatives at its homes, the family-owned provider is taking action on plastic at its Colten House head office in Ringwood, Hampshire.

Fresh milk is now being delivered there in returnable glass bottles by a nearby family dairy business, B&B Dairies, avoiding the disposal of 1,500 plastic bottles a year.

A new recycling system for paper waste at the office will see the replacement of 2,880 disposable clear

plastic sacks with reusable fabric ones.

And office staff have sourced an environmentally-friendly refill option for hand soap dispensers to avoid the need for 144 plastic ones every year.

Tim added: “Our commitment to avoid using more than a million pieces of plastic every year goes right

across the board but it’s just the start.

“We will act on more good ideas and suggestions put forward by each home and roll them out more widely wherever we can.

“We are determined to make a positive difference, both to the planet and the local communities served by our homes.”

Care home adopts ‘Red Bag Scheme’ PARKFIELD House Nursing Home in Uxbridge has adopted the ‘Red Bag Scheme’, which has been developed in partnership with NHS Hillingdon Hospital Trust, Hillingdon CCG and Hillingdon Adult Social Care.

This simple but successful scheme helps residents to receive quick and effective treatment, should they need to be transferred to hospital in an emergency.

The bag contains important information about the resident, their medical history as well as personal belongings (such as clothes, glasses, hearing aids etc.) and it stays with the resident while they are in hospital.

When the residents are ready to go home, a copy of their discharge

summary (which details every aspect of the care they received in hospital) will be placed in the red bag, so staff know all the required information, in order to continue their care most effectively.

A spokesperson for the home said: “The scheme has already seen a reduction in the time our residents spend in hospital, as well as offering a smoother admission and discharge, for both the hospital and care home staff.

“Our communication with hospital staff has also greatly improved, as fewer phone calls are needed to gather information about the resident as well as gaining a better understanding of each other’s roles.”

More than 200 families attended the Anchor Homes celebration garden party in the gardens of West Hall, West Byfleet. The free event was hosted in partnership with Mack Entertainment, a talent agency specialising in entertainment for the elderly in Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire. Tracy Manzi, general manager at West Hall, said: Our key goal has always been community engagement so we wanted to welcome residents from other local care homes and day centres, as well as individuals who live in the community and their families to the party.”

Year 9 students from The Gryphon School in the new summerhouse at The Old Vicarage.

Students create summerhouse oasis for home’s residents STUDENTS from The Gryphon School in Sherborne, Dorset have completed an art and textiles project which has seen them transform the interior of a summerhouse for residents at The Old Vicarage residential care home in the nearby village of Leigh.

Year 9 students were tasked with creating a ‘vintage beach’ themed interior, which would encourage residents to use the large summerhouse that the home won in a competition a few years ago.

Students have created colourful canvas displays, cushions and buntings, which has brought the room to life.

Louise Turner, manager of The Old

Vicarage said: “We are so grateful to The Gryphon School for helping us transform our summerhouse in to a beach-themed oasis for our residents.

“Before, the space wasn’t really used other than for storage, however it’s now transformed into an afternoon tea room, which our residents absolutely love visiting.

“They’ve said it’s like having their very own vintage café in their garden.

We’ve even put a piano out there, and when we opened the room, residents delighted in enjoying the designs, while drinking tea and listening to music being played on the piano.

Thank you to everyone at the school who made this possible for us.”

13

14

CARINGNEWS Advertiser’s announcement

Association puts members at the heart of all it does Home is first to receive end-of-life certification A HALLMARK care home has become the first in Ipswich to receive an accredited certification in end-of-life care.

Bucklesham Grange received the accreditation from St Elizabeth Hospice following a two-year partnership where the home sought advice to improve outcomes for residents requiring end-of-life care.

In order to receive the accredited certification, Bucklesham Grange undertook a supported selfimprovement programme consisting of accredited training, education and development, to improve practice and raise standards.

The accreditation has validated Bucklesham Grange’s end-of-life practice with links to employee knowledge, skills around advance care planning with residents, family and friends, and their ability to recognise when a resident may be

in the last days of life as well as their ability to provide individualised care.

General Manager at Bucklesham Grange, Daniel Rowark, said: “I remember first meeting with the team at St Elizabeth Hospice in 2016 with the goal to promote a professional relationship of mutual support.

“At the time I did not know this meeting would lead to the development of an end-of-life care accreditation for homes in Ipswich and I am incredibly pleased to have been a part of this process.

“For Bucklesham Grange to be the first to achieve this makes me immensely proud as we are able to provide the best possible standard in end-of-life care for all those who need it. The team is excited to continue to support St Elizabeth Hospice by becoming a cluster site to support and develop other homes towards achieving this accreditation.”

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NATIONAL Care Association remains the most respected and established of the trade bodies due to our strong ethos of putting members at the heart of all that we do.

Our reasons for engagement at any level with national associations including CQC is to ensure that our member’s views are heard.

The voluntary Board who govern the Association are primarily care providers and specialists in their fields, giving up their time to ensure that the challenges providers face individually are supported by our team in head office.

One of our greatest strengths is the ability to respond to members queries within 24 hours with an on-call contact which goes directly though to our executive chairman.

Our primary aim is to be the support our members need when they need it!

Amongst the many services provided by the Association are

preferential rates for services and products through our partners, as well as support with toolkits and specialist advice.

Members tell us that savings through our partners cover the costs of their individual membership many times over.

National Care Association is a hub for care providers to access all services which will enable you to recruit safely through our DBS service, access support and advice when needed, personalised toolkits to support your service, keep up to date on developments nationally and locally, attend our national and local conferences and seminars, receive discounts on products and services and much, much more…

Being part of an Association like ours only matters when it matters, and when it matters our members know that we will stand with them with help, advice and support.

Residents create graffiti board ARTISTIC residents at a Benfleet care home proved that ‘it’s always tea time’ when they created an Alice in Wonderland themed graffiti board.

The artwork was produced by staff and residents at HC-One’s Godden Lodge as a way to remember the enjoyable day had by all at a Mad Hatter themed tea party for Care Home Open Day.

Residents were encouraged to share their memories of the tea party and took an active role in choosing the colours and accessories they wanted included in the design.

As part of the project, care home staff invited visitors to contribute to the artwork, which has now been weather proofed and sits on display in the grounds of Godden Lodge.

Who Cares?

We do— we have supported care providers for over 30 years, helping to ensure that the services you run for some of the most vulnerable members of our society are not only robust, but sustainable. We are an essential part of the care provider’s toolkit for everyday practical benefits.

Mental Capacity Act Toolkit ǀ Care Provider Guide ǀ Taking into Account the Views of the Service User Toolkit ǀ Business Planning ǀ National Minimum Wage Care Sector Guidance ǀ Working Safely in a Caring Environment Handbook ǀ Improvement Plan Template “Just to say thank you very much for your advice. Your prompt advice and earlier reassurance that ‘we are not alone’ made all the difference.”

DBS Specialists for the Care Sector dbsonline@nationalcareassociation.org.uk

SAFE online Disclosure and Barring Service that you can rely on.

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Would you recommend us? 10% membership referral scheme Recommend us to another care provider and both receive 10% off your annual membership when they join National Care Association. experienced expert advice ǀ legal, employment, health & safety advice helplines ǀ supplier discounts ǀ DBS service ǀ reduced membership at Quality Compliance Systems ǀ conferences and events ǀ local and national representation

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16

CARINGNEWS

Home collaborates with school for art project

Pupils from Altrincham Girls’ Grammar School performed a music recital for the residents and staff at Ashlands Manor Care Centre in Ashton-upon-Mersey, Sale.

The hour-long performance was undertaken by 15 pupils from Y8 to Y13 at the school, and featured songs including ‘Somewhere’ from West Side Story, ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ and ‘You Raise Me Up’. There was a variety of music from soloists to group singing and some ensemble songs from the choir. In some instances, songs were accompanied by the ukulele.

A GROUP of Year 10 students from Cavendish School visited the Memory Care Neighbourhood at Sunrise of Eastbourne to present them with works of textile art based upon the lives of the residents.

The project was an ongoing collaboration between the Year 10 textiles students from the school – they would come to visit residents and learn more about each other.

The partnership came about from Sunrise of Eastbourne general manager Fiona White visiting the school to give a talk on dementia.

Forming part their GCSE textiles studies, the students first met the residents at Sunrise of Eastbourne last Autumn, and they were assigned one to team up with.

They sat together and reminisced about their lives and the students listened.

Nancy Walford, memory care coordinator at Sunrise of Eastbourne, said: “It was wonderful to see the two generations join together. The residents enjoyed speaking about their lives and loves and the students from Cavendish were so warm and engaged.”

The students then went away to produce personalised “stitch stories” – pieces of textile wall art inspired by the work of artist Cas Holmes.

Nancy added: “The residents were thrilled to see the finished works of art. Beautiful embroidered pieces,

“It was very moving to see the joy of seeing their lives depicted through art by a younger generation.”

adorned with superimposed fabric photographs from the residents’ pasts, old wedding photos, swatches of fabric and buttons, all depicting things that are dear to them.

“It was very moving to see the joy of seeing their lives depicted through art by a younger generation. One beautiful piece adorned with the word “fearless”: a fitting tribute to a wonderful lady who lives a full and enriched life with purpose and joy despite living with dementia. That one word captured her strength and determination so beautifully.

“We cannot thank the students of Cavendish School enough for opening their hearts and minds to our residents, for spending time getting to know them and for producing such beautiful works of art that give the residents a sense of belonging and identity. The art work will be displayed on the walls at Sunrise of Eastbourne for everyone to enjoy every day. We hope this will be an ongoing collaboration with Cavendish School.”

CARINGCARE SHOW PREVIEW

Organiser gives Show fresh energy THE Care Show has now faithfully served its profession and the industry for 20 years and the new event organisers, CloserStill Media believe it is time that the show benefited from a fresh injection of energy! So they have done exactly that.

The Care Show is celebrating this momentous occasion with Home Care Awards, prizes, acknowledgements, Carer of the Year award, live music, entertainment and to thank everyone who’s been to a Care Show over its history, there will be a party to remember for its big birthday bash for all to enjoy, with tantalising treats, delicious drinks and a live band.

Delegates will also receive a new welcome pack that will have a voucher booklet packed with exclusive show discounts and offers.

The Care Show has always been a fixed date in the calendar for thousands of care professions, but this year it is without a doubt a must attend for

everyone in the care sector.

So what will be different about The Care Show 2018?

As well as celebrating 20 years of care history, the

organisers will be adding some fresh interest into the show to ensure the entire community comes together as well as just the usual faces!

There will be more engagement, more opportunities to interact and educate your customers who will also be drawn to the show by a stronger, more practical training and education programme delivered for free across multiple education hubs across the show floor with packed content streams, which include: Business: Brimming with practical advice and ideas aimed at care home owners and multi-property operators to cover key business functions such as finance, customer service, marketing and HR. People: Helping operators and homecare service providers navigate their way around key areas such as, recruitment and retention of staff, training and up-skilling, Brexit-impact, managing agencies.

Continued on page 22

21

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CARINGCARE SHOW PREVIEW

Dementia: Everything from sensory, to technology, this stream is where innovation and inspiration meets to equip care businesses to provide the very best in dementia care.

Assets: A series of seminars which will look at the future growth of the care sector from funding and finance, working with investors, effective procurement strategies, design and construction ideas.

Regulatory/Compliance: A series of practical seminars and workshops for all operators and service providers need to know to navigate their way through successful CQC inspections, safeguarding and health and safety.

Excellence in care: This stream will share expertise and success stories from some of the UK’s most innovative care home operators

and service providers. This series of case studies will cover technology and innovation, personalised care programmes, successful integration with GPs and the rest of the primary care landscape, including medicines management and specialist care programmes.

CloserStill has brought a renewed commitment to investing in the Care Show to ensure the show remains a relevant and important resource for learning and networking for another 20 years to come.

Pick up your free pass to join the sector as they celebrate 20 years of learning, excellence and caring via www.careshow.co.uk or call the delegate booking line they have set up to support care homes on 0207 0134671.

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 fresh environment, rooms become easier to market and the value of the home increased. Our clients benefit from our 18 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.

For more information please see our website www.access21ltd.co.uk or telephone Eda on 020 8339 6133 or email info@access21ltd.co.uk Suite 21, Link House, 140 The Broadway, Tolworth, Surrey KT6 7HT.

CareDocs CareDocs is a well-established digital care planning and management system for any care setting, trusted by residential and nursing care homes to specialist care and domiciliary care agencies.

Available on the cloud, CareDocs is highly innovative yet easy to use, which is why we are chosen by care managers nationwide.

Renowned for supporting our customers we provide enhanced data security, unlimited technical help, on-site training, and frequent updates to the program, making us a truly complete care management solution. Take the first step towards enjoying smart care anywhere by booking a demo of CareDocs today.

Email enquiries@caredocs.co.uk or call 0330 056 3333.

Gainsborough Gainsborough Specialist Bathing, part of the Gainsborough Healthcare Group, will be showcasing its assistive baths with unique BioCote antimicrobial technology. BioCote is integrated during the manufacturing process so it cannot be wiped or worn away – delivering 99.9 per cent 24/7 protection against Superbugs such as Influenza H1N1, E.coli, Salmonella and antibiotic-resistant CRO, CRE, VRE and MRSA. By choosing Gainsborough bathing solutions, healthcare providers can strengthen CQC hygiene compliance, infection control and duty of care through proven silver-ion technology.

Visit www.gainsboroughbaths.com

Skopos This year’s Care Show sees Skopos unveil its latest print collection.

Inspired by the relaxing pace of Hawaiian life, the collection conveys a tranquil paradise through exquisite illustration, hand painting and mixed media. The collection will be shown alongside two new waterproof upholstery qualities, a sumptuous velvet and a textural weave. Skopos prints are available on a choice of 13 FR base-cloths, including waterproof upholsteries, a multi-use velvet and qualities for black out, dimout and bedding end uses. This year’s print will be showcased on a new FR soft panama weave fabric.

Call 01924 436666 or visit www.skoposfabrics.com

M30

Zuri Zuri provides a comprehensive, digital end-to end care management solution for both care homes and home care agencies. Zuri permits care managers, directors and administrators to have full visibility of their entire organisation, in a flexible, auditable and compliant software package. Our solutions are innovative using the latest cutting – edge technology.

J30

www.zuri.care

Countrywide Healthcare Much more as standard The UK’s leading supplier of nursing and janitorial consumables and medical equipment. We’re determined to offer more, doing whatever it takes to get you what you need for your care home, saving you time and money. With obsessive attention to detail and a fantastic customer team, we make buying supplies speedy and straightforward, delivering a service you can rely on for more.

More choice • More expertise • More flexibility • More value.

Contact: 01226 719090

L10

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apetito apetito are dedicated experts in nutritious, sustainably sourced food for older people. We are passionate about sharing our expertise with customers through genuine partnerships, to empower them to create an exceptional dining experience with great food that is shared and enjoyed. We do not operate a one size fits all approach but are adaptable and flexible to rise to any challenge. Come and talk to us at The Care Show, about how we can partner with you to support the health and well-being of your residents.

Visit www.apetito.co.uk

Shackletons Visit our stand to discover our new collection of furniture, meet with the new Shackletons team and learn about the exciting new chapter of the business. Listening to your needs and focusing on new designs, the Shackletons team is excited to showcase a selection of its new furniture, as well as updated classic designs, using the latest fabrics and trends. Join the team on the stand to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Care Show and kick off the next chapter of Shackletons business with a glass of bubbly.

Visit www.Shackletonsltd.co.uk or call 1924 868 480.

Renray Renray Healthcare is one of the UK’s largest and leading suppliers to the healthcare sector. Specialists in care home furniture, beds, seating and pressure area care, you can rest assure you are in good hands. From large new build projects to refurbishment works, we cater for all, manufacturing and assembling our products in our own purpose built factories in Cheshire and Europe to British Standards. We understand you are purchasing furniture that is fit for purpose, stylish and will continue to perform well into the future, which is why we design and build our furniture with you in mind. www.renrayhealthcare.com

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CARINGCARE SHOW PREVIEW Advertiser’s announcement

Finding missing next-of-kin ...

THE carers and nurses role at the end of life extends beyond death to provide care for the deceased person and support to their family.

Following the death of a resident or patient you are still obliged to contact next-of-kin, and this requires sensitive and skilled communication.

However, what happens if you cannot locate the family?

In some instances the deceased person may not have any known nearest relatives, or anyone who is easily contactable, and it is possible that the care home will have to assume full responsibility for all afterdeath arrangements.

Unfortunately when looking for next-of-kin for an unclaimed estate, family members can seem untraceable.

This makes it difficult for care homes to start the care after death process.

To find next-of-kin, probate researchers use a multi-faceted approach which involves: ■ Searching through birth, death and marriage records.

■ Making local enquiries, visiting family members face to face, conducting searches in libraries and archive offices.

■ Using historic family trees.

■ Searching through online archives.

Tracing family lines and finding the

missing can be a complex process, involving research and knowledge of many jurisdictions.

By engaging an experienced, well-resourced genealogist and international probate research firm, clients will have the best chance of successfully finding those elusive family members.

Fraser and Fraser is one of the UK’s largest firms of professional genealogists and international probate researchers and a Corporate Member of industry regulatory body the Association of Probate Researchers.

We truly understand the sensitivity that needs to be applied to issues such as tracing next-of-kin.

From the outset, we provide clarity regarding the process and costs involved, while at the same time providing you the added security that all of your information is handled with strict confidentiality underpinned by ISO9001 & ISO27001 certification.

Our results are built upon comprehensive experience, having worked within the Public Sector since 1971.

Come and see us on stand D32 at the Care Show at NEC Birmingham.

For more information contact publicsector@fraserandfraser.co.uk or call 020 7832 1400.

Create that ‘wow factor’ with a danfloor carpet FIRST impressions are extremely important especially when it comes to selecting a care home.

In 2017 the Financial Times reported that 44 per cent of care home residents were fully selffunded, meaning the expectations of residents and their families for the standards of accommodation has changed.

They now expect a higher standard, seeking a style and finish which is more accustomed with a high-end hotel.

With this in mind interior designers are increasingly being engaged to work on the development and refurbishment of residential care homes to ensure they achieve a look and feel that will create that ‘wow’ factor and therefore attract the fee-paying resident.

As an established flooring manufacturer for the care sector, danfloor uk has seen an increase in demand for something different when it comes to carpet design.

“Although there is still great demand for tonal carpet designs in certain areas of a care establishment, many homes are moving towards patterned carpets and modern twists on traditional designs such as plaids for reception areas and communal living spaces,” said danfloor marketing manager Catherine Helliker.

Danfloor has developed its healthcare collection of carpets so it now includes the stunning Evolution Collection.

Six new ranges make up the new collection and offer a variety of designs from subtle liner affects to bold statement pieces.

Danfloor’s healthcare carpets, which also includes the Equinox Collection, is specifically designed for the care sector and includes many innovative performance features such as hardwearing and soil and stain resistant yarns, an

impervious membrane and an anti-microbial yarn treatment, all of which assist with cleaning and infection control and helps to improve the indoor air quality of an environment.

Danfloor will be exhibiting at this year’s Care and Dementia show so why not pop along and view the stunning collections and find out more about how the range of carpets can enhance your care environment.

Enquiries: All the collections can be viewed at www.danfloor.co.uk and free sample material is also available.

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Rise in hydration and nutrition after Surrey CCG’s intervention Anne Riches, registered manager, with Dr Wendy Thomson, managing director, Norfolk County Council.

Home in good company with quality accolade BADGERS Wood Care Home in Drayton is celebrating after being approved for the In Good Company Quality Mark Plus by Norfolk County Council.

The home, which has been commended previously for its work in the community through its role in the Friends Indeed scheme, alongside many other intergenerational and community-based projects, was awarded the addition of the Quality Plus Mark after impressing the committee with its work to combat loneliness.

Registered manager Anne Riches was presented with a certificate on behalf of Badgers Wood by Councillor Andrew Proctor, leader of Norfolk County Council, and managing

director Wendy Thomson at an awards ceremony held on the Vintage Broadsman at Wroxham.

Anne said: “I am incredibly proud and honoured that Badgers Wood not only reached the required standard for the In Good Company Quality Mark, but also achieved the prestigious ‘Plus’ status.

“The staff and residents love being involved with the Friends Indeed scheme, and our other numerous intergenerational projects.

“Loneliness can be a very serious and debilitating feeling, particularly with the elderly, so we’re delighted Norfolk County Council has recognised our efforts to combat it.”

Badgers Wood is operated by Larchwood Care.

A REPORT by Healthwatch Surrey has highlighted and commended some positive interventions by Surrey Downs CCG in improving hydration and nutrition among older and frail care home residents in the region.

Since launching their Quality in Care Homes programme in January 2017, the clinical commissioning group has worked successfully with one third of the 71 care homes in Surrey Downs, helping to effect a reduction in hospital admissions due to urine infections, falls and complications stemming from existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

In the report the independent health watchdog praises the QiCH team for its sensitive approach to offering tailored support and advice to management and staff.

‘Care homes reported that the QICH team come into the homes and get to know the issues, which is important to the care home teams,’ it says.

‘The QICH team are seen as experts who are trusted to give good advice alongside emotional support and understanding.’

Jennifer Halliday, urgent care and

integration project support manager at Surrey Downs CCG, added: “Keeping cool, hydrated and well fed in hot weather is vital for the health of older people, especially those over 65 years and living in care homes.

“Heatwaves can prove fatal in some cases, but with proper hydration and nutrition many ill effects can be avoided.

“Six to eight glasses of fluids a day is the ideal but this can be hard to achieve.

“In care homes we created ‘hydration stations’ so residents were better able to serve themselves water, squash and other drinks at any point throughout the day, without having to wait for food service or ask a member of staff.

“Warm weather can also reduce people’s appetite so we shared recipes for light and tasty finger food, jelly shots, fortified milkshakes and healthy fruit smoothies and encouraged residents to get involved in making these, as part of fun cookery activities. High fluid foods also count towards intake – think about watermelon, oranges and tomatoes.”

Training academy pledges to train 100 Dementia Friends BB Training Academy has set out to recruit 100 Dementia Friends to help the local community cope with the challenges of an ageing population.

Dementia Friends is an initiative by the Alzheimer’s Society to educate people about living with Dementia and the small actions that can make a big difference.

This includes being more patient with people living with the condition, spreading the word about Dementia Friends, and campaigning for improvements in personalised care.

Fay Gibbin, CEO of BB Training Academy, said: “With 750,000 dementia sufferers in the UK alone, the work of Dementia Friends in local communities is vital.

“As training providers for the care sector, it is our responsibility to share best practice, and we want to help train as many Dementia Friends as possible. The more people who understand the needs of a person who has dementia, the better.”

BB Training Academy, which provides health and social care and clinical care training, has pledged to sign up 100 Friends within 10 months, in a first step towards making it a dementia-friendly organisation.

The recruits will join a nationwide network of Dementia Friends working to support people living with the condition and their loved ones.

Free and easy way for care homes to start electronic care planning Log My Care is the FREE and easiest way for care homes to start electronic care planning.

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Mayor opens home’s new facility RESIDENTS, families and friends at Eccleshare Court Care Home in Lincoln enjoyed a garden party to celebrate the official opening of the new village street.

The dementia friendly themed street features its own pub ‘The Letters Inn’, ‘Cathedral’ café, corner shop, hair dressing salon and nail bar.

The facilities are shared with clients of the onsite social outreach centre, creating a vibrant community space for everyone to enjoy.

Home manager Susannah BarkerMilan said: “We are looking forward to utilising the new facilities to take our person-centred activities to a new level.

“The new facilities will enable us to improve quality of life for our residents and help us to set a benchmark for high quality, relationship-based care and support for our residents with dementia.”

The ribbon was cut by Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Keith Weaver.

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S AT U R D A Y 2 9 TH S E P T E M B E R In support of

Hosted by Hallmark Care Homes in association with Care England Saturday 29th September, 6pm - 1am Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London To purchase a table, donate an auction prize or to hear about our sponsorship opportunities, please contact Chesca on 01277 314210 or email events@hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk

30

CARINGNEWS

Home’s train of thought helps power the Watercress Line

State-of-the-art care village Belong Morris Feinmann celebrated its first anniversary as a key part of Manchester’s Jewish community with a party open to members of the public.

The care village in Didsbury, which caters for members of Manchester’s Jewish population, staged a bash with live entertainment by music group Roundhay, and had two birthday cakes donated by the village’s kosher supplier, Brackmans Bakery. Belong Morris Feinmann is the sixth development from the care village operator, which prides itself on world-leading dementia care. It was developed on behalf of the Feinmann Trust, established in 1947, originally to provide a home to Jewish refugees during the Second World War and evolving over the years, primarily to support older people from the Jewish community.

Pictured are residents Barbara Jacques, Shirley Kingsley and Pat Herz.

Starscape

TRAIN enthusiasts at a Hampshire care home are so thrilled with their nearby heritage railway they’ve raised nearly £1,000 to help preserve it for future generations.

The appreciative senior passengers of the Mid Hants Railway, known affectionately as the Watercress Line, live seven miles away at Abbotts Barton nursing and residential home in Winchester.

As with all 20 homes run by familyowned Colten Care, Abbotts Barton enables its residents to nominate charities and worthy causes to support every year.

When they chose the line as their preferred charity in 2017, it meant collections could be taken at community events in the home including a harvest lunch, barbecue, coffee mornings and Valentine’s raffle. In arts and crafts sessions, residents even made decorations to sell at a Christmas fair.

Janet Orchard of the home’s Companionship Team said: “Our residents are regular visitors to the Watercress Line.

“They wanted to do their bit to help keep it going and know that their grandchildren and greatgrandchildren can enjoy it in future years.”

On their latest trip, a party from Abbotts Barton presented railway volunteers including a platform guard, driver and stoker with a giant

Fibre Optic Lighting.

Abbotts Barton resident Joyce Malphus with Watercress Line staff at Alresford station, Hampshire, where the home’s fundraising cheque was presented. cheque representing the £980.60 raised through the home’s campaign.

After the cheque presentation at Alresford station, the visitors boarded a steam train for their return trip to Alton, 10 miles down the line. Back later at Alresford, the day ended with a picnic at the nearby Avington Park stately home.

The Watercress Line has operated as a preserved heritage railway for more than 40 years.

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Abbotts Barton’s nominated charity for this year is Emmaus Hampshire, part of a social enterprise community that helps homeless people in the UK and France.

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32

CARINGTRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

Group’s approach ‘could save thousands of lives’

Joanne Hicks and Rhea Paller.

Operator welcomes two new managers as it expands offer EXPERIENCED nurses Rhea Paller and Joanne Hicks have stepped into new roles as registered home managers for Shropshire care provider, Morris Care.

Rhea has reached a new height in her career following her promotion at the 50-bed Stretton Hall Nursing Home, Church Stretton.

Rhea, who joined in 2014 as an overseas nurse, qualified in the Philippines and successfully completed a second degree in International Nursing when she moved to the UK. Combined with her vast clinical experience, she enjoys regular interaction with residents and their families and places high value on forming long-lasting, positive relationships.

Rhea said: “I am thrilled to now be in the home manager position. Morris Care has been very supportive during my career progression and I am really looking forward to ensuring Stretton Hall continues to uphold its excellent reputation in the local community.”

Oldbury Grange, Bridgnorth, has also welcomed Joanne, who

has started her new role following the retirement of Sue Barton who managed the home for three years.

Joanne qualified as a registered nurse in 2007 and has worked in nursing homes ever since. It has always been her desire to care for and support those who are moving in to the later stages of life and for those living with dementia.

From working in a hospice providing palliative care, to creating and implementing a training package for overseas nurses, she has vast experience in the care industry.

Joanne said: “Everyone at Morris Care has been so welcoming and encouraging upon my arrival at Oldbury Grange. I am excited to get to know the residents better and ensure the team at Oldbury Grange have everything they need to continue their excellent work.

“I want Oldbury Grange to be known in the area for its outstanding care and open door philosophy, we are here when anyone may need us.”

Morris Care is currently recruiting for a number of roles as it looks to expand its care offer to residents.

The annual Achievers Award ceremony at Manor House in Chatburn was an enjoyable affair for all the residents and guests. The members of staff nominated were seen to have gone the ‘extra mile’ and to have made a great impression on the residents, relatives, visiting professionals and fellow colleagues who voted. This year 62 nomination slips were received regarding 28 different members of staff. This means a third of the staff were nominated as ‘going the extra mile’. A large display board showed the comments found in the voting box. This year’s winner of the Achievers Award went to Joan Delafield from the catering team who lives at West Bradford. She was followed jointly by Susan Barnes from the admin team, Lynn Murray and Liz Tomlinson from housekeeping.

DEMENTIA experts at a care home group have halved the use of antipsychotic drugs in an approach they say could apply nationally to save thousands of lives.

The team at Colten Care has challenged, reviewed and cut down on typically powerful medications that can so readily be chosen as a first-line response for residents with or without dementia.

They wanted to try more alternatives to help those who are experiencing distress, anxiety, aggression, apathy, nausea, low moods or other complex behaviour that carers can find challenging.

Acting on continual clinical audits and reviews, nurses and carers have steadily introduced more ‘psychosocial’ interventions in such situations so that medications become a last, rather than first, resort.

At the start of the three-month trial, 64 residents were being prescribed anti-psychotics among nearly 260 people living in five dementia-specific care settings.

Now, just 32 of these residents – exactly half – are receiving the drugs.

Across Colten Care’s entire family of 20 nursing homes, caring for a full range of age-related conditions, there were 97 residents using the medicines. That figure has dropped to 65.

“The results have been truly spectacular,” said Admiral Nurse Kay

Gibson, who has led the initiative.

“By taking a non-pharmacological approach, we have cut the use of antipsychotics by half in our dementiaspecific settings and by a third across the whole group.

“I initially worked with colleagues to check the evidence base for intervention, clinical supervision and monitoring of nurses, and devised a short observational inspection framework.

“Instead of saying ‘here’s a tablet that will help’, we have put much more store on personal interaction, activities, talking and working oneto-one with the resident to encourage feelings of wellbeing and purpose.”

Despite widely known risk factors, around 180,000 people in England with dementia are treated with antipsychotics every year.

While tens of thousands derive benefit, use at this level is thought to equate to an additional 1,800 deaths a year plus 1,620 other adverse brain conditions, including strokes.

Colten Care’s findings reflect those of a new study by Exeter University, Kings College London and Oxford Health.

It found that additional dementia training for care home staff, increased social interaction for residents and reviewing the use of anti-psychotics could reduce resident mortality by an estimated 36 per cent, saving up to 20,000 lives a year.

Advertiser’s announcement

ISO certification – the benefits to health and social care providers CQS (Certified Quality Systems) Ltd specialises in ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 45001:2018 & ISO 27001:2013 certification along with other management system standards.

Our team of experienced business consultants take a practical down-toearth approach, ensuring certification is achieved simply and efficiently.

Our mission is to provide businesses with a professional, affordable service to a realistic timescale in order for them to meet their objectives without the need for extensive internal resource commitment.

Many health and social care providers opt to invest into ISO 9001:2015 certification to provide a vital foundation for their businesses continual development and compliance.

Certified companies see improved quality procedures and a reduction in cost through streamlining of their processes in line with the ISO 9001 standard.

Due to the nature of services offered in this industry, it is imperative to have a high level quality system in place and by having third party certification, you can show these improvements to everybody from staff to clients to suppliers.

The new ISO 9001:2015 standard requires that all companies holding

the ISO 9001:2008 Certificate must have completed the transition to the new standard by September 14.

The 2015 version requires effective management skills, compliance, risk based thinking putting customer first and this is essential within the health and social care industry.

ISO 45001:2018 was released in March and relates to health and safety management. ISO 45001 Certification (previously OHSAS 18001) can demonstrate your commitment to the safety and wellbeing of your staff and others who represent your business.

By achieving ISO 45001 Certification your company will be actively demonstrating your ability to identify hazards, their associated risks and reduce them to the best of your ability.

34

CARINGCATERING AND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT

Shortlist for the NACC Awards 2018 revealed Head chef Ben Kerslake and manager Margaret Rhodes.

Chef earns home five-star rating FROME Nursing Home has been awarded the maximum five stars for the ninth consecutive year in its latest food hygiene rating from the Food Standards Agency.

Head chef at Frome, Ben Kerslake, is also celebrating 11 years of working in the kitchens at the home, having started as an assistant back in 2007.

Ben and his team impressed food inspectors from Mendip council, who left well assured that the services available were the highest possible.

They focused on the handling and storage of food, the cleanliness and layout of the buildings and the recording of food information.

THE shortlist for the NACC Awards 2018 has been revealed by the National Association of Care Catering.

Recognising teams and individuals across the care catering sector, the prestigious awards celebrate innovation, excellence and the dedication to deliver above and beyond and ensure exceptional service every day.

The winners will be announced at the NACC Awards gala dinner, which takes place on Thursday October 4 at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham, and is a highlight of the NACC Training & Development Forum 2018.

The finalists are: Care Establishment of the Year Award: ■ Primrose Bank, Poulton Le Fylde.

■ The Close, Burcot.

■ The Lawns, Oadby.

Catering Manager of the Year Award: ■ David Blackwood, catering manager, Meallmore Ltd. ■ Carl Cooper, head chef, Gracewell of Edgbaston.

■ Simon Lawrence, group culinary manager, Avery Healthcare.

■ Jane Parke, team manager, County Enterprise Foods.

Catering Team of the Year Award: ■ Avery Lodge, Grantham.

■ Derby Heights, Derby.

■ St Andrews Healthcare.

Neel Radia, national chair of the NACC, with last year’s award winners. both physically and emotionally.

■ Willow Court, Harpenden.

It is right that we take the time to recognise and celebrate this.

Meals on Wheels Award: “I congratulate all of the finalists.

■ Harrogate Food Angels.

The judges had a difficult job ■ Park Care Meals. deciding the shortlist from all the brilliant entries, so to get to this stage Our Care Catering Hero Award: is a fantastic achievement.

■ Suzanne Hallgarth, County “I’m looking forward to the NACC Enterprise Foods.

Awards dinner where the winners ■ Maggie McNamara, care assistant, will be revealed, and we will have the Gracewell of Kentford. opportunity to honour excellence ■ Debbie Wright, cook in charge, with colleagues from across the Munhaven Care Home, Mundesley. country. I wish everyone the very Neel Radia, national chair of the best of luck.”

NACC, said: “The NACC Awards In addition to the five categories provide an excellent opportunity to listed above, the winners of the reflect on the great work that care Region of the Year Award, the Pam catering professionals do every day.

Rhodes Outstanding Achievement “Across the sector there is an Award and the National Chairman’s intrinsic desire to create exceptional Award will also be announced at the food and drink experiences that NACC Awards dinner. enhance life quality and wellbeing

Thermapen IR infrared thermometer with foldaway probe

THE new Thermapen IR is two instruments in one compact unit, combining the advanced technology of two ETI designed and manufactured products, the RayTemp 2 Plus infrared thermometer and Thermapen 4 digital probe thermometer.

Housed in a robust ABS case containing ‘Biomaster’ additive which reduces bacterial growth, the Thermapen IR incorporates a motion sensing sleep mode (penetration probe only) which automatically turns the instrument on/off when set down or picked up, maximising battery life.

To utilise the infrared function, simply aim the infrared thermometer at the target and press the scan button to display the surface temperature.

Please Note: the infrared non-contact function will only measure when the probe is in the closed position.

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target as possible. The default emissivity is 0.95 but can be adjusted between 0.1 and 1.0, if required via the mode button.

Alternatively, it is possible to take liquid or semisolid product temperatures using the reduced tip, stainless steel penetration probe (Ø3.3 x 110 mm).

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Each Thermapen IR is supplied with a traceable certificate of calibration.

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15 per cent OFF dignified, waterproof scarf bibs from Care Designs CARE Designs’ Pashmina Scarf Style Clothes Protectors combines the look of a stylish ladies’ scarf with the waterproof practicality of a bib and so and can be worn all day with a high level of dignity.

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Events show how latest multi-functional technology can benefit specific sectors RATIONAL has launched a series of live events called ‘Tomorrow Kitchen’.

They are designed to show how the latest multifunctional equipment can benefit specific sectors of the industry – so one event will cover healthcare, another hotel banqueting and so on.

At each event, a chef will cook using a combi oven, the SelfCookingCenter, alongside Rational’s VarioCookingCenter. The chef will show how, in tandem, the two appliances provide flexibility and consistently high quality results, from a compact footprint – and deliver all the cooking processes that a modern kitchen requires.

Tomorrow Kitchen will also show how one chef, working alone with the two appliances, can prepare high volumes of food.

Adam Knights, marketing director at Rational, said: “The idea is to highlight how the latest cooking technology brings benefits to every part of the catering industry.

“So each Tomorrow Kitchen will focus on a sector: healthcare, hotel banqueting, staff catering and education. We’ll show how, whatever the type of foodservice operation, the flexibility of multifunctional appliances means caterers can future-proof their kitchen, making it easy to adapt

to changing menus.

“The wide range of model sizes available in our SelfCookingCenter and VarioCookingCenter ranges means there’s a Tomorrow Kitchen solution for every caterer, whatever their business.”

Each Tomorrow Kitchen event will showcase menus that are typical for the sector they are covering. They will also demonstrate how modern multi-functional appliances deliver a truly sustainable, environmentally aware kitchen solution that protects the future, saving energy, reducing food wastage and increasing productivity.

There are five Tomorrow Kitchen events, running from September to November. They are free to attend but places are limited, so it’s wise to book early.

They are: Hotel/banqueting – Gleneagles Hotel – September 26.

Healthcare – Rational, Luton– October 9.

Staff catering – Rational, Luton – October 10.

Hotel / banqueting – Rational, Luton – November 7.

Education – Christ Church College, Oxford – November 22.

Enquiries: To book tickets visit www.rational-online.com

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36

CARINGCATERING AND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT Advertiser’s announcement

PKL is the UK’s leading modular kitchen infrastructure specialist. Here, its chief executive, Lee Vines, outlines how a temporary kitchen hire can make kitchen refurbishments less disruptive.

Replicate your former service with a custom-designed temporary unit CATERING for residents with complicated dietary needs requires a top-quality catering team with a streamlined and efficient kitchen.

But old kitchens can put barriers in the way of achieving this aim.

When tiles are falling off the wall, the floor needs replacing or your extraction is not up to code, kitchens quickly go from being an asset to a liability.

This presents another problem: How to refurbish an existing kitchen without interrupting provision or significantly reducing service?

Do you refurbish the kitchen in phases or in one go?

With a phased project the disruption will often go on for much longer.

Each section needs to be emptied, shut off from the rest of the kitchen and refurbished before equipment

is reinstalled. This process has to be repeated all over again with each successive section.

This often means using another nearby space to house the catering equipment, and perhaps even a cutback in the range of foods the catering offers during refurbishment and it’s difficult to maintain your efficiency in makeshift surroundings.

There is also the difficulty of undertaking large-scale upgrades, such as a new floor or wall coverings or extraction, in stages.

These would require the complete shutting down of the catering operation in that space, requiring a full temporary set up anyway.

Shutting down your entire operation might seem like a drastic measure, but with a temporary modular kitchen, it needn’t be.

Using a temporary facility for the period of a refurbishment gives you the opportunity to replicate your former service for residents away from the work being undertaken in the old kitchen.

A temporary kitchen is cleaner, safer and less disruptive to your catering operation staff and residents.

Making the most of unused outdoor

space to create a temporary facility allows a smooth handover from one facility to another.

With custom-designed temporary units that can be delivered and installed in a matter of days, PKL work with many care homes to create bespoke kitchen facilities.

If you are thinking about refurbishing your kitchen, but aren’t sure how to plan without a shutdown, call PKL on 01242 663000 or email postbox@pkl.co.uk to discuss your options.

Advertiser’s announcement

How dining experience can be placed at the centre of the care solution QUALITY, nutritious meals in care homes should be a given; but perhaps less well documented is the role dining experience plays in ensuring the health and well-being of residents.

Often, when people go into care, mealtimes become more of a task than an enjoyment.

There are strict times during which residents are fed and they are given a narrow, unimaginative selection of meals.

Frequently these are served in solitary, enclosed dining spaces, leaving residents with little to no power over their own mealtime experience.

A pleasant and sociable dining environment can have a significant impact on the life of a resident.

Making mealtimes an enjoyable experience can encourage them to eat well and often, this in turn has a positive effect on their health, wellbeing and weight management.

Recognising this has led many modern care groups to place an increased focus on dining experience. One such group is Springfield Healthcare.

In May 2017, Springfield Healthcare opened its new care village in York, ‘The Chocolate Works.’

Housed in the former Terrys

Chocolate Orange factory, it has been carefully restored to provide exceptional and innovative care facilities.

The village is beautifully designed; but there is more to this than just being aesthetically pleasing.

The centrepiece of ‘The Chocolate Works’ is the marketplace, a large indoor space which aims to ‘bring the outside in.’

The space is full of natural daylight, trees and greenery and is home to

shops, a café, spa, gym and chocolate shop. The idea: to move away from the enclosed communal spaces found in traditional care homes.

Here residents are free to move around the marketplace, feeling like they are outdoors and part of a wider, bustling community.

The shops encourage a sense of normality, so when people move in, they can continue living an active lifestyle, undertaking activities they have participated in throughout their

lives.

For residents with dementia, the recognisable elements of the marketplace will help to recreate a life they know and understand, making the move into a care setting less of an unsettling experience.

These ideologies are very much reflected in the way food and mealtimes are dealt with at ‘The Chocolate Works.’

Just as the facilities’ layout and design encourages normality, community and social interaction, so does its approach to food.

Each floor has its own kitchen, but, importantly, meals are also served in the café, pub, terrace and other outlets.

The selection of dining environments, paired with apetito’s expansive meal offering give residents the flexibility to eat what they want, whenever they want, either on their own, or in groups with friends and visitors.

This flexible approach to dining means eating together, relaxing and socialising are cleverly woven into daily life.

Residents retain their independence and communal dining allows the natural and enjoyable social aspect of eating to be maintained.

37

CARINGNEWS

A new ‘dementia-friendly’ home has been developed jointly by building science research centre BRE and experts from Loughborough University. Caring UK found out more.

Dementia-friendly home opened in joint project THE building is aimed at helping educate housebuilders, carers and relatives on how to better support those living with dementia.

The design is geared to help dementia sufferers remain at home for longer than in a normal home, thus dramatically improving quality of life and reducing the cost of care to the state and relatives.

It was formally opened by Lord Richard Best OBE DL, co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Housing & Care for Older People on the BRE Innovation Park in Watford.

Dementia care costs families around £18billion a year and affects about 850,000 people in the UK. The figure is expected to rise to more than one million in the UK by 2025.

Two-thirds of the cost of dementia is paid by those who suffer from the condition and their families. This is in contrast to other conditions, such as heart disease and cancer, where the NHS provides care that is free at the point of use.

The 100sqm Victorian house has been adapted to cater for different types and stages of dementia, and is aimed at allowing sufferers to live independently by addressing their day-to-day needs.

The upper floor of the home has been adapted for the more advanced stages of dementia. The building design has been developed around the needs of two specific personas (or avatars), Chris and Sally.

The design narrative describes how the features of the building have been adapted to support the couple as they age well at home. The

Lord Richard Best OBE DL performs the official opening at the ‘dementia-friendly’ home. prototype will be supported by short Noise reduction features to reduce films detailing how dementia affects stress. them on a good, average and bad Simple switches and heating day, with different actors re-creating controls, and safety sensors in high the different stages of dementia. risk areas such as the kitchen.

These films have been created by the Homely, simple and familiar interior University of Loughborough. design to help promote rest and The dementia-friendly converted relaxation. terrace house includes: The £300,000 project has been Clear lines of sight and colourdesigned by HLP Architects, and is coded paths through the home that based on the ‘design for dementia help guide people towards each principals’ previously developed by specific room.

Dr Rob McDonald (Liverpool John Increased natural lighting, which Moores University) and Bill Halsall is proven to help people stay alert (HLP Architects). during the day and to sleep better at Moving forward, the home will also night. assist Loughborough University’s Automatically controlled natural ongoing research into how the ventilation to provide good indoor air features are used, with a view to quality. further improving ways to support

homeowners with dementia.

Other research partners involved with the project include Akzonobel, John Lewis, Polypipe and ROCKWOOL. Director of BRE Innovation Parks, Dr. David Kelly, said: “Many of the ideas put forward in the prototype home are just good sense for us all to incorporate into our properties to adapt to the process of ageing.

“Currently, the average cost of care can be between £30,000 and £40,000 per annum.

“Creating environments which allow people to live independently at home for longer could save a significant amount. That money could instead be channelled into research that alleviates the condition and reduces the emotional stress to the individual.”

The project draws expertise from a number of specialisms at Loughborough, from the schools of architecture, building and civil engineering, design, and sport – and is based on a wealth of dementia research carried out at the University.

Eve Hogervorst, Professor of Psychology at Loughborough University is the university’s principal investigator on the project.

She added: “Most people experiencing dementia wish to remain at home, so the design and construction of new dwellings or home conversions are paramount.

“With this project we want to show how design solutions can be to be easily integrated within most current homes and communities to improve people’s lives.”

Armed Forces Day celebrated in style at Bakewell home A CELEBRATION to show appreciation of the work of the Armed Forces at a Bakewell care home featured a celebration of music, residents talking about their own personal experiences and staff dressing up to hold reminiscence sessions.

It was held at Valley Lodge as part of Armed Forces Day, the annual national campaign that gives everyone the opportunity to show their support for the men and women of the Armed Forces past and present, including currently serving troops, service families, reservists, veterans and cadets.

Sarah Dixon, event organiser, said: “It was a pleasure for Ashmere Derbyshire Ltd to get involved with something that means so much to our residents, they enjoyed listening to the music and talking about their memories of serving in the armed forces”

During the celebrations there was Glenn Miller playing in the background and Sam Cave (training manager) and Courtney Johnson (activities co-ordinator) dressed in authentic costumes spent time talking to the residents about their own personal experiences.

Care England chief executive Professor Martin Green OBE visited Springhill Care Home – and came away a Caring Hero. He made a tour of the Accrington home including the state-of-the-art dementia centre, met with staff and residents and was presented with a Caring Heroes badge for his commitment to care. Martin was shown around by chairman Ken Nolan, managing director Donna Briggs, general manager Curtis Bennett, manager Bernadette Bennett and associate director for people and organisational development Virginia Perkins.

38 lamontjohnson.com

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Friends launch care business committed to the community

Page 40

New manager targets dementia initiatives

Page 43

Lauren wins first prize in art competition

Page 44

CARE HOME SALES NATIONWIDE

TV presenter launches dementia care centre

By Dominic Musgrave

TV presenter Angela Rippon enjoyed afternoon tea when she visited a new specialist dementia nursing facility, part of the Morris Care Centre, in Wellington, Shropshire.

The popular broadcaster, an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society, met residents and staff at Morris Care’s new Ercall Court to mark the occasion.

Angela, whose late mother Edna was diagnosed with dementia, said: “With one person developing dementia every three minutes in the UK, the need for ongoing research and professional support is clear.”

The 11-bedroom ‘home from home’ heralds a new approach to delivering specialist care within a small, bespoke residence.

The Midlands care provider balances a range of innovative approaches tailored to an individual’s medical, physical and emotional

Grace House, Farnham, Surrey is registered for 21, offering all single bedrooms, and further expansion potential.

The home was sold on behalf of the owners, Mrs Tracey O’Shea and Mrs Allison Day to existing operators Ashley and Julian Jones.

This is the second home that the Jones brothers have acquired through Lamont Johnson.

Angela Rippon with home manager Lydia Tyanase, chief operating officer Sue Austin, dementia and social life lead Alison Hearle and director Timothy Morris benefits, helping residents lead needs to provide the most personfulfilling lives. centred care possible.

Morris Care’s chief operating officer This unique approach to care Sue Austin said: “We were delighted is called The Cedar Philosophy.

Developed alongside the University of to welcome Angela as our special guest to Ercall Court.

Stirling, it aims to reduce anxiety and “We’re all proud of the home and stress and can lead to real therapeutic

FARNHAM CARE HOME

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“UPFRONT” FEES or INFLATED COMMISSION RATES!

SOLD successfully by

LAMONT JOHNSON

Grayson Taylor (Managing Director, Lamont Johnson) •1981 FOUNDING PRINCIPAL of Taylor National •2001 FOUNDING PRINCIPAL of DC Care •2012 FOUNDING PRINCIPAL of Lamont Johnson Our success in the sale of Care Homes is second to none in the care sector, and has been achieved through the 37 years experience of principal directors, Grayson and Dawn Taylor, specialising solely in the discreet sale of Care Homes and sites/developments for C2 use nationwide.

Our proven track record is confirmed by our clients recommendations, and their continued trust in us over the years, with additional purchases and resales.

OVER 01937 842 758 37 YEARS EXPERIENCE

the team here believe it is a privilege to care for residents, treating them as individuals and considering every aspect of their wellbeing, not simply their medical requirements.”

Ercall Court is affiliated to the nearby Morris Care Centre in Wellington, which has been accredited ‘Good’ by CQC, and achieved a nationally recognised Gold Standard Award for end-of-life care.

Ercall Court has been specially designed to be a welcoming, calming environment with features including individually coloured bedroom doors to help each resident remember their room.

There are also dedicated themed areas to stimulate interest and promote happy memories with the help of photographs and vintage items. The home also has a sensory and relaxing spa room with a specialist massage bathing system for residents to enjoy as well as a safe, private garden

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Hart Lodge. Reg 11. Chadwell Heath, Romford, Essex

Our success in the sale of Care Homes has been achieved through providing a professional and personal service, combined with the expertise, industry knowledge and experience of principal directors, Grayson and Dawn Taylor, gained over 37 years of specialising solely in the discreet sale of Care Homes and sites/developments for C2 use nationwide.

Hart House. Reg 10. Southend on Sea, Essex

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40

Friends launch care business committed to the community LIFELONG friends Susannah Deuk and Anita Bramley have utilised their years of combined experience in the health and social care industry to launch an in-home care business for Brighton and Hove.

With a shared passion for the quality of life of their clients, the compassionate duo – who have known each other for over 30 years – are on a mission to support the elderly and vulnerable to remain at home, for as long as they possibly can.

Before launching Caremark Brighton and Hove and receiving their Care Quality Commission rating in May, both Susannah and Anita supported others in the community in various skilled roles.

Susannah, a mother to six children, after gaining her psychology degree at Sussex University, worked in a variety of roles, supporting autistic children and those with learning disabilities.

She then spent a long time working as a care manager within community mental health services for the local authority.

She said: “I’ve always been a people person, with a caring nature, and I feel blessed to have always worked in a sector where I’m able to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

“Launching Caremark, for the

Anita and Susannah have launched Caremark Brighton and Hove. greater good of our community, was dementia and offer guidance on how incredibly important to myself and loved ones can support sufferers.

Anita. We were both born and bred in “Our priority is maintaining the Hove, so home is important to us. dignity and respect of our clients “Aside from delivering an and building a truly compassionate impeccable standard of care, we’re culture.” keen to support those affected by Business partner and best friend,

Lamont Johnson sell Essex based learning disabilities group on behalf of Hart Care

SOLD Hart House Hart Lodge Hart View

Hart House. Reg 10. Southend on Sea, Essex

Hart Lodge. Reg 11. Romford, Essex

For a no obligation appraisal and advice on how we can help sell your home, phone us on 07920 475 440 or mail us at lamontjohnson@btinternet.com

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Anita, who has two children, previously worked as an occupational therapist, and has experience working with those struggling with their mental health. She has worked in a variety of other sectors including acute physical, forensic and community mental health teams.

Both are keen to draw from their professional experiences and the various qualifications completed while working in the health and social care sector.

“One of the main reasons for launching the business together is we have complimentary skills and we think that is going to benefit our clients and our team,” added Anita.

“We’re passionate people who are willing to do whatever it takes for our clients to be given the best possible care.

“This as an opportunity to do right by our ageing population and those who need us most.”

Even though their business has been operating for just under two months, it’s grown to the point where it will need to employ around 20 support staff and carers before the end of the year.

The pair hope the growth will mean they can contribute to local charities as part of their commitment to improve the community.

Mansfield Care takes over three of operator’s homes A DEAL has been agreed which saw residents and staff at three Bield care homes transfer to a new provider recently.

Since announcing last year that it would be closing 12 of its care homes, staff at Bield have been working tirelessly to find other providers to take them over.

Following progressive discussions, the housing and care provider announced that two of its homes in Edinburgh and one in Jedburgh will be transferred to Mansfield Care.

These transfers follow on from the transfer in May of Finavon Court, in Glenrothes to Kingdom Homes.

The new provider will take over Haugh Street and Craighall Road in Edinburgh and Milfield Gardens in Jedburgh in a move that means all residents and staff can seamlessly transfer over with very few changes.

Charlie Dickson, director of housing and care services, said: “We are fully aware of the serious impact the decision to close the care homes has made on the lives of the people who use our services, their families and our staff.

“Once we made the decision to close the care homes we worked closely with our specialist agents Christie and Co to ensure that every possible attempt to find new care providers was explored across

“Our service users and staff have remained of paramount importance throughout what is clearly a stressful and traumatic time.”

the country.

“Our service users and staff have remained of paramount importance throughout what is clearly a stressful and traumatic time.”

Bield announced 12 of its care homes were to close due to a change in strategic direction and ongoing financial pressures.

The provider will continue to provide innovative solutions to address the needs of the next generation of older people and will operate – as normal – its range of highly successful housing services such as its retirement housing options and Bield Response24 service.

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New manager targets dementia initiatives

Home’s refurb creates new rooms and jobs A BRAINTREE care home has invested £450,000 in creating new facilities and fully refurbishing bedrooms to meet the growing demand for residential care.

The New Deanery in Bocking is housed in a historic Grade II listed building, which has been sensitively refurbished to create bright and spacious facilities suitable for residents and their visitors.

Re-rendering of the exterior has also ensured the historic home is protected for many years to come.

In addition to an extensive refurbishment of 23 new en-suite bedrooms, the home has relocated and refitted its on-site hairdressing

and beauty salon and created a new café and bar. The work included dropping floor levels to create accessible wet rooms and investing in new furnishings.

Julia Clinton, chief executive of Sonnet Care Homes, who operate the home, said: “We have breathed new life into part of the building and it has allowed us to reopen 23 rooms which have been designed to meet future needs.

“Our new Carrington café provides a lovely new meeting place. Our residents are thrilled and absolutely love the changes, and we will now be employing up to 20 more staff to cater for a larger number of residents.”

A WORCESTER care home has appointed a new manager who is set to introduce fresh ideas to help residents who are living with dementia.

Respected care specialist Jackie Houghton has taken over the helm at Northwick Grange – with a pledge to make the home a more dementiafriendly environment.

The senior care expert, who has more than 17 years’ experience in caring for elderly people, is leading on plans to build a new dementia garden at the home. It will feature a variety of colours, plants and herbs which are proven to trigger the senses and memories.

Jackie said: “I am really thrilled to be leading the team here at Northwick Grange and am already working with our fantastic team to introduce new ideas and most of all, ensuring the quality of our care, and our communications with families, is second to none.

“Dementia is an issue very close to my heart. One of my key objectives is to make sure our residents who suffer from the disease can spend more time outside enjoying the sights, sounds and smells. They can stimulate powerful memories and so our planned dementia garden will be really vital – especially if we continue to have such sunny summers as we have this year.

“Northwick Grange is a much-loved

Jackie Houghton care home which is renowned for taking care of elderly people’s needs.

I want us to go further and take that care to a new level.”

Jackie added that the she will also be working with her team to introduce a new programme of events and days out for residents and their families.

Before joining the team at Northwick Grange, Jackie was previously a deputy manager at a sister care home owned by the Clarendon Care Group. She has held a number of positions since joining the operator in 2010.

Northwick Grange, which was refurbished two years ago following a six-figure investment, is registered with the Care Quality Commission for 30 residents.

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43

44

Downing LLP exits homes

INVESTMENT manager Downing LLP has announced the successful exit by its funds from a group of five trading care homes, which comprise over 390 beds, managed

by Care Concern Group.

Downing has worked closely with Care Concern since 2012, investing £65million across nine care home projects, including new-build developments, operational improvement projects, extensions and repositioning of existing homes.

Downing’s exit from the five care homes to an undisclosed real estate investor will see the successful repayment of its funds’ capital and will generate an attractive return to Downing’s investors across both the debt and equity provided. Care Concern will continue to operate the homes.

Mark Gross, investment director at Downing, said: “We are delighted to have completed the exit from a number of our investments alongside the Care Concern Group.

“We believe the estate includes some of the best care homes in the UK, providing high-quality care to hundreds of elderly people. We are proud that our funding has been able to provide the management team with a platform to grow and develop the business.”

Lauren wins first prize in art competition A BUDDING young artist from Cramond Primary School has been crowned the winner of an art competition run by Edinburgh’s newest care home, Cramond Residence.

Six-year-old Lauren White’s design was chosen as the top piece of artwork out of over 400 entries from pupils of all ages. A shortlist of 48 were displayed at an exhibition at Cramond Kirk Halls.

Lauren’s entry impressed the judges, who praised her use of vibrant colour, mixed materials and perspective, as well as commending the way in which her poster depicted Cramond village as a special place to live. Her winning artwork will now take pride of place in Cramond Residence when it opens this summer.

The competition was split into four categories. In addition to primary 1 pupil Lauren’s winning entry, three runners up were also selected: Ria Ramage, primary 3, Joe McEvoy, primary 5 and Erin Do Rego, primary 7.

Eileen Gray, general manager of Cramond Residence, said: “We would like to say a huge congratulations to Lauren on her win as she had clearly worked incredibly hard on her piece of artwork and it is very well deserved.

“We were so impressed by the calibre of the artwork that the pupils entered into the competition and it’s wonderful to see just how many talented young artists we have in our local area.

“Creating and cherishing memories is very important to us at Cramond Residence so will be proud to unveil Lauren’s piece when we open later this summer. We know it will be loved and admired there for years to come.”

The difficult task of judging was taken on by a team of well-known

locals from around Cramond: Jennifer Thomson, a professional artist from The Blue Easel Gallery, Reverend Russell Barr, minister of Cramond Kirk, Dr Patricia Donald, from Cramond Medical Practice and David Fairweather, editor of Cramond Grapevine.

As the winner, Lauren also receives a top-of-the-range art set and easel, as well as Hobbycraft vouchers to allow her to continue her artistic ambitions. The runners up will also receive an art set each.

Jones Brothers make second time acquisition through Lamont Johnson

SOLD GRACE HOUSE CARE HOME FARNHAM SURREY

Grace House, Farnham, Surrey. A care home registered for 21, offering all single bedrooms, and further expansion potential.

The home was sold on behalf of the owners, Mrs Tracey O’Shea and Mrs Allison Day to existing operators Ashley and Julian Jones.

This is the second home that the Jones brothers have acquired through Lamont Johnson.

For a no obligation appraisal and advice on how we can help sell your home, phone us on 07920 475 440 or mail us at lamontjohnson@btinternet.com

Lamont Johnson PROPERTY ADVISORS TO THE CARE SECTOR

NATIONWIDE

Chamberlain Court shortlisted for national design award CHAMBERLAIN Court in Royal Tunbridge Wells has been shortlisted for a prestigious design award.

The Hallmark operated residential, nursing and dementia facility is in the running for the ‘Luxury Care Home’ award at the esteemed Knight Frank healthcare property dinner.

The awards seek to recognise design excellence in care home businesses across the country.

Customer relationship manager at Chamberlain Court, Melissa Jorgensen, said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for the ‘Luxury Care Home’ award at the Knight Frank dinner.

“An enormous amount of hard work, dedication and passion has gone into creating this beautiful

facility so that the residents, their families and the care teams can feel at home.

“Being shortlisted for this category is a wonderful acknowledgement of all that effort.”

The care home, which scooped a national Pinders Healthcare Design award earlier this year, opened in July 2017 and includes; a hair salon, therapy room, cinema and café.

Other unique design innovations at the home include; a walk-in and musical therapy bath, a barbers, an outdoor activity room, external WC and an aviary.

The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony at the London Marriott Hotel on Thursday October 4.

45

Mayor opens newly built care home in Lichfield HER Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire Ian Dudson and the Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor David Leytham, officially opened The Spires by unveiling a plaque at a ceremony at the home.

The Lord Lieutenant and the Mayor greeted residents and guests, and gave speeches before unveiling the plaque, marking the formal opening of the home.

During their visit, invited guests were given tours of the purpose built home, and were treated to a selection of refreshments, as well as entertainment throughout, including performances from a live choir and a harpist.

Named after the three spires on Lichfield’s famous Cathedral, the home, operated by Barchester Healthcare, will provide personalised residential and dementia care for

70 people within the Staffordshire community.

Fran Sharp, general manager,said: “We are all very excited about the opening of The Spires and the residents and our newly appointed team have really enjoyed meeting new residents and their families, as well as the Lord Lieutenant and The Mayor.

“Residents are at the core of everything we do, and at The Spires we will be providing support for older people living independent lives with dignity and respect.

“Barchester brings 25 years’ experience in expert care to Lichfield, which means residents and their relatives can feel safe in the knowledge that they are in trusted hands.”

The new facilities will provide 100 new jobs within the area.

46

CARINGNEWS

Children bring joy to home’s residents

Residents celebrate success in national poetry competition RESIDENTS at care homes in Cheshire, Dorset, and Worcestershire are celebrating after learning their entries to a national poetry writing competition have been selected as the best in the country.

The competition marked World Poetry Day celebrations at Care UK homes nationwide. The operator’s lifestyle teams supported residents in preparing for the competition by organising writing workshops, poetry recitals, and visits from local authors and schools, giving residents the opportunity to share and talk about their favourite rhymes.

The competition received more than 50 entries, with first place going to Abney Court in Cheadle, Cheshire.

For several weeks, residents met with a group of students from Kingsway School and after gathering the residents’ most treasured memories, the students marked World Poetry Day by turning them into poetry.

Residents and the pupils also worked together on a joint poem called “What we call home”.

The competition judges were particularly impressed with Akira Edgson’s poem about resident Pat Nugent’s memories and what life is like at Abney Court. Their entry took the stop spot and a £100 prize.

Home manager Tracy Mitchell said: “It was so exciting to hear that Akira’s

poem won Care UK’s poetry writing competition. It’s a beautifully worded poem and Pat was thrilled to see her memories turned into poetry.

“This is a great example of how activity based care supports residents to continue enjoying their passions and hobbies. Intergenerational relationships have been proven to be beneficial to older people, and residents truly enjoyed sharing their memories with the Kingsway School students.”

Two runners up prizes were presented to residents and the teams at Ferndown Manor in Ferndown, Dorset and Perry Manor in Leamington Spa, Worcestershire.

At Ferndown Manor, residents created a joint poem about what life is like at the home. The carefully crafted piece, “Ferndown Manor – My home”, addresses common misconceptions about care homes and describes some touching moments of life that many people can relate to, from freshly formed friendships to new experiences.

The second runner-up prize went to an entry from residents at Perry Manor. The home’s creative writing group collaborated to write a thought-provoking poem about their memories and describing their lives, from playing as children, to marriage, and life at Perry Manor.

IT apprentice wins award COUNTRY Court Care’s IT apprentice Dawid Tylman was honoured at the annual Peterborough Regional College ‘Excellence in Skills Awards Evening’.

He won the Intermediate Apprentice of the Year award due to his vast improvement with communication skills, producing outstanding work and growth of confidence within his subject area.

Dawid completed his work under strict deadlines and worked late to meet them, demonstrating dedication and commitment.

“This is a fantastic achievement,” said financial director Al-Karim Kachra, who presented Dawid with his award and prize at

the ceremony. “Dawid has demonstrated that he is real asset to the team. He has been outstanding during his apprenticeship, and this has led directly to his full-time employment with us.

Dawid was presented with his award and prize at a prestigious awards ceremony at Peterborough Cathedral.

SCARBOROUGH’S Saint Cecilia’s Nursing Home and Wheatcroft Primary School have cemented a mutual friendship which is bringing benefits to both the residents and children.

Throughout the school year, children from the school have been visiting the nursing home to do arts and crafts and book reading with the residents or sing them songs.

And at the end of the year a competition was held to design a poster to celebrate the school becoming a Friend of Saint Cecilia’s and the nursing home in turn becoming a Friend of Wheatcroft School!

The home’s managing director Mike Padgham said: “The relationship between the school and the nursing home has grown really, really well this year and we are delighted and very grateful to the school for doing so much with our residents.

“The residents love having the children visit. They look forward to it and find it really stimulating and rewarding and I very much hope the children gain a lot more from it too.

“It has been a real pleasure to work with a school within our local community, hopefully helping young people to learn more about caring for older people and dispelling some of the myths about nursing homes.

We look forward to continuing this relationship for many years to come.”

To thank the school for visiting, the nursing home put on afternoon tea and unveiled the winner of the poster competition, which was Ashley Mayes.

She won an art set and tickets to Alpamare. Mike also visited the school to present runners-up prizes to other pupils.

Group captures residents’ memories for Suffolk Day A CARE operator celebrated the official Suffolk Day by sharing the special memories of the county as recalled by the people who live in its 12 homes.

To mark the day, Healthcare Homes Group shared a specially commissioned video, which features short interviews with residents from across its homes in Suffolk, many of whom have lived in the county – and in some cases the same town or village – for their whole lives.

The homes are spread across the county from The White House in Beccles, Oaklands House in Reydon and Aldringham Court near Aldeburgh in the North East, to Fornham House near Bury St Edmunds, Uvedale Hall in Needham Market, Barking Hall in Barking and Hillcroft House in Stowmarket in the West, in addition to Haughgate House in Woodbridge, Handford House in Ipswich and three homes in Felixstowe on the southern coastline.

As part of the special video, residents have recalled growing up in the countryside or on farms, which at that time required a lot of hard manual work, particularly for one resident who remembers no electricity being available.

Others recall war-time Suffolk, trips to the seaside for holidays, and watching the steam trains which were travelling en-route to the coast from Ipswich.

Katherine Foley, regional director (Suffolk) for Healthcare Homes, said: “With 12 homes located in the beautiful county of Suffolk, we very much embrace the special day to celebrate everything that is great about the county. It’s an opportunity for residents to reminisce and share their special memories about their lifetime in Suffolk.

“Many of our homes enjoy beautiful positions in the Suffolk countryside, near to popular market towns, as well as near to the coastline. Choosing a care home is a very important decision, so being able to find a home that is in an area they know and love is so important to many.

“The memories project for Suffolk Day has been a lovely experience; it’s been great to listen to residents recollecting some very special memories of the county and why they love where they live. We are delighted too, to bring the Suffolk Day celebrations to all of our homes here – we hope everyone in the county enjoyed marking this special day.”

48

CARINGINDUSTRY NEWS

LiPS may replace DoLS THE Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill was recently introduced to the House of Lords.

This action followed the Law Commission’s review, consultations and submitted reports regarding the replacement of Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards which have been considered as overly complex and excessively bureaucratic.

It has been recommended that the DoLS be repealed and replaced with Liberty Protection Safeguards.

These would include some changes such as the safeguards being applicable to anyone over 16, involving any health and social care setting and not just care homes or hospitals, and considering whether the deprivation is necessary and proportionate etc.

Fortunately, CareDocs keeps abreast of such changes and will develop the already full and comprehensive assessment process to encompass any new legislative requirements.

New smart laundry equipment launched to reduce downtime ‘OUT of order’ signs are now a thing of the past, following the launch of SLS Connect – award-winning smart laundry equipment by Hampshirebased commercial laundry supplier, SLS. Designed to help care homes save time and money, the intelligent washing machines and tumble dryers provide SLS with a real-time view of what is happening, why it is happening and, most critically, when it is happening – information never before available!

As a result, SLS will know if there is a problem with a machine before the care home does!

This latest development in commercial laundry has lead SLS Connect to receive the Innovation Excellence Award at the 2018 Dementia Care and Nursing Home exhibition, which recognises original,

cost-effective and operational products that will create positive change in the care industry.

SLS director Peter Hosking said: “Historically, we have always operated blindfolded, with engineers arriving to a care home with no understanding of what they were going to face and no preparation to succeed. The onus was always placed on the customer to advise us on which machine was faulty and what the fault was.

“SLS Connect changes all of this! We can now understand what is wrong before arrival so we are best prepared.

“We are afforded volumes of information to support our engineering and can even resolve issues directly through the Cloud.

“This means we can react immediately, helping care homes save time and money.”

Shackletons creates four feature chairs for home’s music room SHACKLETONS recently worked closely with owner and designer Jenny Fisher from Bridge House Care Home in Brighouse, West Yorkshire.

Jenny wanted to create four feature chairs for the music room.

Bridge House, which is part of The Fisher Care Group, is an innovative and stunning new care home.

Working in collaboration with Jenny and Shackletons’ research and development team, they were able to produce four stunning chairs using the Clifton and Lightcliffe band

uniforms.

The band played at the opening of the home and the chairs completed the room perfectly.

“We couldn’t be happier with how the chairs look,” said Shackletons chairman and CEO Anthony Ullmann. “ They really are a testament to the craftsmanship and creativity of our manufacturing team.

“Their experience and expertise allowed them to manufacture an excellent set of chairs for a fantastic customer.”

Dales star Matthew pays hotels a visit SAFEHANDS Holidays is pleased to be able to continue to bring you the very best in live entertainment at both its venues, recently we have had many tribute acts at our Llandudno hotel which proved to be very popular during the months of March and April 2018.

April also played host to a star from the Dales where guests at both our hotels enjoyed a special visit from Matthew Wolfenden AKA David Metcalf.

Matthew visited the Esplanade Hotel in Llandudno where a regular guest from the Isle of Man bombarded him with questions about his screen wife Tracy “how you could cheat on her?” – “we don’t like that Layla shouted the crowd”.

One lady had been an Emmerdale fan for many years sometimes catching Matthew out with some of her questions.

I was there to welcome Matthew and was really impressed at how he engaged with the guests with the Q&A part of the evening, it’s probably one of the most informative sessions we have ever had.

Some guests were rather disappointed to find out that although he has split with on screen wife Tracy Metcalf there is still no hope as one of his favourite moments other than the birth of his children Buster and Bowie, was pulling off his marriage to co-star Charley Webb.

Matthew explained he had all of the guests believe

they were attending Charley’s 30th birthday party, until they arrived and “SURPRISE “announced they were getting married.

There was plenty of time for photos and Matthew made time to speak to all the guests individually whilst having the camera flashing away by in-house photographer Karen to ensure all the guests left with a signed photo souvenir from the evening.

There was a rather special guest in this evening by the name of Elly May, who is five-and-a-half and was on holiday with her parents Charlie and Teresa.

Mathew took time to play and talk to the family while practicing some of his moves from Dancing on Ice. Before inviting Elly May up to help him with a task that stole the show “Forget Bongos Bingo” – Bingo time at the Esplanade Hotel is not to be missed, when a five-year-old calls 28 and reads it out as eight and two 82 things got a little bit fuzzy for Matthew.

He was defiantly set up by one clever little girl, as for the guests it was probably one of the longest games of bingo we had that week but all the same very entertaining.

Finally, before it was time to leave the Esplanade Hotel, Matthew was to do the traditional manager pint pulling competition, Matthew commented “it would be better than screen star Amy Walsh AKA Tracy Metcalf, stating he had worked in bars from being young”.

After a perfect pint Matthew stayed and talked to some of the staff members and entertainer ERYL before heading back to the dales.

“The Hotel staff received many comments from all the guests during breakfast saying Matthew was fantastic and a great entertainer.”

49

CARINGINDUSTRY NEWS

Senior DSN’s ‘deep concern’ over the variation of care A SENIOR diabetes specialist nurse is calling for a national qualification for healthcare professionals working in the field to reduce the variation in levels of care.

Erica Richardson, who has worked at the Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust since 2009, has spoken out about the lack of official industry standards ahead of a major conference when diabetes care among nurses will be discussed.

As well as variation of care, many other topical subjects relating to the condition will be addressed at the UK’s largest national diabetes conference in November, Diabetes Professional Care 2018.

Erica said: “GPs and practice nurses around the country are expected to deal with thousands of people with diabetes, ranging from those who are at risk of diabetes, newly diagnosed patients and those who have complications. Often they don’t know enough about the subject and this causes large variations in the care they receive. This is deeply concerning for all those involved.

“We realise they’re trying their best in the pressurised environment we all work in, however doing a course does not make you a specialist and as there’s no real supervision to ensure they’ve reached the acceptable competence it is little wonder that there are such variations in care.

“The number of patients being diagnosed with diabetes is continuing to grow year on year. It’s vital we equip frontline staff so they can assist these individuals in the care and management of diabetes, as the number of people requiring help far outweighs the capacity of specialist teams.”

This year’s DPC will once again see the return of the Foot and Wound Clinic, which will be run in conjunction with a highly experienced clinical podiatry team led by Graham Bowen, clinical lead for podiatry at Solent NHS Trust.

The DPC2018 Foot and Wound

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.

Making it easy to adapt Erica Richardson Clinic will give attendees the opportunity to interact with experienced practitioners and ask questions about real-life situations to help support people with diabetes in looking after their feet and lower limbs.

Graham said: “The amputation rate is going up because we have more patients with diabetes. However, 95 per cent of amputations start with a single foot ulcer. So if we can get the screening and education right, we can prevent foot ulcers, which can then prevent amputations.”

DPC has also launched its programme online for attendees to see the full-line up of speakers and presentations for the two-day event.

The conference brochure includes details about the live streams, keynote speeches and information about all the different aspects that will be covered.

Once again world-class practitioners and thought leaders will present at the London event, as well as a series of high-profile names such as Professor Jonathan Valabhji, NHS England’s national clinical director for obesity and diabetes and Dr Partha Kar, the associate national clinical director, diabetes, also with NHS England.

All speakers have been asked to present based on their knowledge and experience so they can share their expertise of diabetes care and best practice.

The ultimate in infection control VICKI Wilson, national trainer for Beaucare® Medical, was invited to showcase the CareClean™ range at the Lancashire County Council infection control conference, which was attended by NHS Nurses and Carers.

The specialised chemical cleaning range, which garnered a lot of attention at the conference, is formulated to BS EN 1276 and BS EN 13704 standard and is designed to simplify any healthcare facility’s chemical usage.

Approved by NHS Infection Control, the range features colour coded labelling to minimise the risk of cross-contamination and to help ensure that the

Simple solutions

right product is being used correctly.

Beaucare’s Versan Disinfectant for Disease Control is an ideal accompaniment. It is a broad spectrum hard surface disinfectant and is effective against C.Difficile spores, Norovirus, MRSA and more.

Beaucare provides free support materials and national training, offering instruction on minimising the risk of cross-contamination and guidance on cost effective application and dosing.

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

A NEW briefing paper from the House of Commons is highlighting increased funding that should lead to almost a doubling of home adaptations under Disabled Facilities Grants.

To help local authorities deliver in a timely manner, Closomat – Britain’s leading provider of disabled toilet solutions – has a unique package in its sector.

It means that, from one source, bathroom adaptations can be efficiently project managed, whilst being fully compliant with all appropriate Regulations, and then serviced and maintained.

No other shower (wash and dry) toilet manufacturer has the capability to offer, and deliver, such a full service.

In addition, the service extends beyond simply installation of an appropriate shower (wash & dry) toilet. Closomat can offer design advice, supply and install a raft of supplementary bathroom equipment, including ceiling track hoists, toilet lifters, height adjustable washbasins, shower seats, and even adult-sized changing benches and body driers.

Closomat produces, in the UK, the brand leader and biggest seller in shower toilets, the Palma Vita.

The company was the first to introduce the concept

of shower toilets into the UK, almost 60 years ago.

The Palma Vita is the only unit of its kind developed specifically for disabled people, and which can be accessorised – initially and retrospectively – to accommodate the user’s changing needs.

Enquiries: Call 0161 969 1199, visit www.clos-o-mat.com or email info@clos-o-mat.com

wallpaper murals

designed exclusively for care homes View our wallpaper collection online and discover how to create colourful feature walls and themed areas that engage and inform.

www.carehomemurals.co.uk 01283 712171

CareHome Murals

50

CARINGINDUSTRY NEWS

New eating and drinking for people with dementia guide launched

By Jane Murphy FOOD, good nutrition and hydration are essential in providing care for older people especially those living with dementia.

They are more likely to be at nutritional risk for a number of reasons, such as difficulty chewing and swallowing, confusion and memory loss, poor communication skills, changes in food preferences or eating habits.

Therefore these eating and drinking difficulties are a major factor contributing to poor health, frailty and reduced quality of life.

By the time someone with dementia moves into a care home, they may be already experiencing significant weight loss and other nutrition-related illnesses.

Following our two-year research project on nutritional care for people living with dementia (funded by the Burdett Trust for Nursing), we developed a film and workbook called ‘ Eating and Drinking Well: Supporting People Living with Dementia’.

The workbook aims to develop knowledge and skills around food and hydration for care givers to provide best care for people living with dementia.

The training film and workbook are freely available from the website www.bournemouth. ac.uk/nutrition-dementia.

The workbook is available as a downloadable PDF version that can be printed off or completed online.

The workbook has been highly praised as a valuable resource.

Comments from care staff and managers included: ‘It is a very well thought through workbook and I will highly recommend every care home to work through it with their staff.’

‘This was an excellent workbook that provided a wealth of information and signposting to further resources – thank you.’

‘Thought the workbook was excellent – very easy to use and full of practical and useful information. thank you!’

Our feedback also indicated the need for an easy-to-use practical guide. In direct response we have produced a new guide for care staff called ‘Eating and Drinking Well with Dementia – A guide for Care Staff.’ It is written by myself and my colleagues Gill Hooper and Joanne Holmes.

The guide is based on our published model of ‘Person-Centred Nutritional Care’ at its heart which is underpinned by six key factors: 1. Availability of

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food and drinks – how to accommodate for changes in appetite, food preferences and ability with practical suggestions for modifying food, planning menus and improving presentation of food; 2. Tools, resources and environment – suggestions for creating a helpful mealtime experience and useful tools for nutritional screening; 3. Relationship to others when eating and drinking – including family members, care staff and other residents; 4. Participation in activities – practical activities to encourage independence through meaningful activity, the importance of life histories and activity to stimulate appetite and evoke the senses; 5. Consistency of care – improved communication between all those involved with care and the provision and prioritisation of nutrition and hydration; 6. Provision of information – access to trusted information, training, resources and current guidelines.

There are three sections and colour coded throughout to help find information easily.

Section 1: considers each of the six factors and provides practical advice and suggestions using ‘top tips’ and resources to signpost to further ‘trusted’ information and current guidelines where appropriate. There are also solutions for eating and drinking to overcome the challenges that care staff faces every day Section 2: provides some examples to deliver ‘availability of food and drinks’ for best practice and useful resources such as menu planning, food and fluid diaries and advice on healthy eating.

Section 3: provides handy checklists to evaluate your own practice at a glance!

We hope that the guide will provide a toolbox of ideas and approaches to help care staff feel more confident in providing good nutrition care for people with dementia.

■ Jane Murphy is a professor of nutrition, and co-leads the Ageing and Dementia Research Centre at Bournemouth University.

Range of protection provides a shield against allergens MAINTAINING the best possible hygiene standards within care homes is crucial in order to avoid the spread of infection, ensuring the safety of residents, staff and visitors.

Senior residents are more likely to suffer from the effects of allergies and respiratory problems, so providing protection from these irritations can improve sleep quality, limit restlessness and contribute to a better quality of life for residents.

While a standard PVC mattress cover tends to give an austere and clinical feel, a microfibre encasement mattress protector is a great option for care homes as it can be smooth, lightweight, stretchy and undetectable, fully encasing a mattress with a waterproof, protective barrier to ensure no stains on the sleep surface.

The waterproof membrane helps

create a healthy sleep environment by preventing the growth of bacteria in the mattress, keeping dust mites, bedbugs, dead skin cells and fluids out.

Based in based in Merthyr Tydfil in the Welsh Valleys, Mitre Linen’s wide range of protection for mattresses, pillows and duvets will provide a shield against allergens, whilst also protecting the significant investment which operators have made in their bedding.

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