Caring UK weekly - Issue 4

Issue 4 22.04.20 We are committed to supporting customers in these unprecedented times, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me or a member of my team to talk about how we can help Derek Breingan, Head of Health and Social Care 07818 454674

The weekly online newsletter for the care sector

Providers in call for cash support CARE providers are calling for better financial support from the Government to help them get through the hardships caused by the fight against coronavirus (Covid-19).

The Independent Care Group says a five per cent increase in fees offered by a local authority will not sufficiently help providers who are facing real hardship.

And it is calling on the Government to provide better financial help to local authorities so that they in turn can help providers who look after older and vulnerable people.

ICG chair Mike Padgham said: “We are grateful to North Yorkshire County Council for making the offer of a five per cent increase in the fees they pay us to provide care to help providers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“However, while it is welcome, going forward it is not going to be enough to help providers, many of whom are facing real financial difficulty.

“Care providers are facing huge increases in costs, for instance the costs of bringing in agency staff to cover for staff who are unwell, sick pay costs and the increasing cost of

protective equipment.

“Add to this the fact that, due to stopping admissions, some care homes may see a dramatic reduction in income and you can see why potentially this could be very serious indeed for providers.

“Homecare providers will also be financially challenged due to a reduction in contracts.

“We understand the financial hardships local authorities are under and believe it is up to the Government to provide those authorities with more support so that they in turn can help providers.

“They promised to do whatever was needed to get the country through the pandemic, well this is really necessary if social care is to play its crucial role in caring for people with the virus and protecting those most vulnerable to it.”

Social care currently looks after 400,000 people in care and nursing homes – that is three times the number in NHS hospital beds.

Social care looks after a further 640,000 people in their own homes. n If you have a story for a forthcoming Caring UK Weekly email it to Dominic Musgrave at dm@scriptmedia.co.uk

Celebrities send videos to care staff

A resident has organised a Clap for Carers within the care home where she lives. Julia Bruton has been clapping for her carers at Gracewell of Maids Moreton every week, and will continue to gather everyone on Thursday evenings. She wanted to show her appreciation for the team at the home who continue to do such an amazing job of caring for the residents. Julia said: “The care staff here continue to turn up daily and help me with day to day challenges and enable me to get out of bed every day. I do not think the carers are appreciated or thanked as much as they deserve, and I am so very grateful to every single one of them. I would also like to congratulate the NHS for dealing so well in a crisis.”

A BIG THANK YOU

FROM ALL OF US TO ALL OF YOU FOR ALL YOU ARE DOING TO KEEP OUR MOST VULNERABLE SAFE AND HAPPY …

WE’RE IN AWE OF YOUR SELFLESS HARD WORK AND DEDICATION.

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CAREGivers and care teams working for Home Instead Senior Care have received video messages of support from celebrities, keen to let them know that everyone is thinking of them.

The first video message was sent

by Sky News presenter Sarah-Jane Mee, who recorded her video while in lockdown at her London home and is expecting her first child this summer.

In it she said: “A big hello to my wonderful friends at Home Instead and to all you fantastic CAREGivers. I know you go above and beyond.”

In the film she went on to say: “Thank you and well done. I’m thinking about you and your families.”

The second film was received from actress Sarah Hadland, who said: “I just wanted to say thank you so much for the amazing job you are doing. I hope you know how much you are appreciated and admired.”

Sarah then delighted everyone at Home Instead by reprising her role as Stevie in the Miranda series when she produced her famous Heather Small ‘face on a stick’ and belted out the lyrics ‘what have you done today to make you feel proud’.

CEO of Home Instead UK, Martin Jones, added: “I know that everyone in the Home Instead family will love watching the films and we know that the messages of goodwill apply to all caregivers, whoever they work for.”

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3

CARINGWEEKLY

How a care home helped resident beat coronavirus

A GOOD supply of tea and biscuits, decorated PPE and music are just some of the tactics a specialist care home in Nottingham used to help a 78-year-old dementia patient successfully recover from coronavirus.

Sandra Whitcombe’s family has applauded the care she received while a resident at Church Farm at Rusticus, in Cotgrave, Nottinghamshire.

The grandmother-of-two has been a resident at the care home since last August.

As one of the most bubbly and social residents, the staff were determined to help Sandra recover quickly, whilst maintaining a high quality of life and, of course, protecting others.

Sandra’s son, Steve, said: “We are so pleased to see mum happy and back to her bubbly self. The great care she has had and continues to receive has helped her to get through this tough time – we can’t thank the team at Church Farm enough.

“We just can’t wait to be able to spend time with her as soon as lockdown measures allow us to see her.”

In addition to strictly following all government guidelines, the Church Farm care team, which includes its own full-time carers, nurse, and GPs, has been taking the temperature of all staff on arrival each day.

This meant Sandra was moved into isolation as soon as she developed a temperature.

The business also made a significant investment in PPE to ensure staff have the necessary equipment to keep safe.

Patrick Atkinson, owner of Church Farm Care Ltd, said: “This has been an anxious time for residents, family members, and staff but Sandra’s recovery is proof that, with a thorough and sensible approach,

Residents at Balhousie Pitlochry say ‘thank you’.

Sandra (centre) has recently recovered from the virus thanks to the Church Farm team who even customised their masks. recovery and containment is possible – and in a way that retains a high quality of life for those in care.

“One of the challenges was the use of masks and other PPE as seeing our staff with their faces covered was understandably confusing for residents living with dementia.

“The team decorated their masks to make them bright and colourful which Sandra really responded to – it’s just one example of how a personal approach really helped. We also used books and music to entertain Sandra while in isolation – as well as keeping a good supply of tea and biscuits.

“We’re so thrilled that Sandra is better. This success is really testament to the dedication of our staff – they are on the frontline and truly going above and beyond to keep our residents healthy, safe, and happy.

“We’ve personally packed 400 bags of treats for all our staff and there has been amazing community support such as donations from local businesses for staff and residents, as well as pictures and letters of support from local children.”

Church Farm Care has four homes in Nottingham – three of which offer specialist dementia nursing.

Kindness lifts spirits of operator’s teams ONE of Scotland’s leading providers of residential care has been ‘overwhelmed’ by the kind acts of many members of local communities since the Government’s measures to reduce the spread of coronavirus were introduced.

With 25 care homes across the north east, Tayside and the central belt, many of the staff and residents at Balhousie Care Group have been touched by the generosity of businesses in supporting staff and residents, from free pizzas being delivered to donations of hand sanitiser from distilleries.

Domino’s in Dundee sent pizzas for staff to enjoy and Arbikie supplied hand sanitiser from its own stills.

Hand gel has also been donated by Carrick Management as part of an initiative which has seen Balhousie partner with charity Social Bite.

Jill Kerr, group chief executive officer, said: “At what has been an extraordinarily challenging and unsettling time for many, it has been overwhelming to see so many businesses and local communities

show their support for our key workers and residents.

“Their generosity and thoughtfulness has been wonderful and given our colleagues and residents a boost. We’d like to thank everyone who has reached out for their kindness.”

Jam makers Mackays sent hampers to three Angus-based care homes and Franco’s Café in Carnoustie dropped off home-made scones and Malteser slices for staff to share across two of Balhousie’s sites.

Another received food from Perthshire businesses Snakatak and Crunch Munch, which was enjoyed by staff, while a school donated electronic tablets to residents at one of the group’s homes to help aide communication with their loved ones.

As well as receiving support from many local businesses, the wider communities in which the care homes are based have been reaching out in droves to lift spirits including letters and rainbow drawings from children and singers performing in car parks.

Staff receive sweet treats from baker to say thanks STAFF at The White House residential care home in Beccles have enjoyed some homemade and hand-decorated cupcakes thanks to the team behind a new Facebook group which has been set up to provide a boost to key workers during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Baking a Difference has been created by Michaela Davies.

With support from her baking friends, she aims to bake for those all-important key workers who are risking their own health and safety to keep the country going in the face of the current crisis.

After receiving a nomination, The White House team was delighted to receive several boxes of delicious cakes in different flavours, each emblazoned with a motivational message.

Administrator Tara Penfold said: “We would like to thank ‘Baking

a Difference’ for their kindness in delivering so many scrumptious cakes; they have been thoroughly enjoyed. “‘Baking a Difference’ is heading all around the eastern region to deliver even more cakes to deserving key workers, and we are amazed at their kindness.

“I would encourage people to follow the team on Facebook, to make nominations and also support them wherever possible with ingredients, as these amazing gifts really do give everyone a boost during these difficult times.”

Michaela, who has previously run a bakery business, came up with the idea of baking as a way to thank NHS staff while she is in isolation.

The initiative has however expanded and she is now baking for a huge variety of key workers across Norfolk and north Suffolk.

Residents at South Cary House, a 23 bedroom in Castle Cary, Somerset have done a large display of rainbows at the front of the home to hopefully brighten up the lives of walkers, neighbours and residents during this time of lock down from the coronavirus.

4

CARINGWEEKLY

‘History hunt’ launched to find people with a link to building

Margaret Fisher House Supported Home in Paddock Wood has been lucky enough to experience exceptional kindness and generosity during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. As the pandemic spiralled, housekeeper Carmel Belshaw was contacted by the local Waitrose store, who have continued to offer support and kindness, as well as donating lots of shopping to the notfor-profit home, which supports older people to live independently. As well as donating grocery items, toilet rolls, soaps and more, the store also sent the residents some jam sponge cakes (their favourite) and invited the housekeeper to shop directly from the warehouse, ensuring she can get all the residents need while distancing.

FOXHOLES Care Home near Hitchin has launched a ‘history hunt’ to discover and share the stories and experiences held within the walls of its building, which had previously been a boarding school and maternity hospital.

From birth to education, to care, the imposing building, which was initially built in 1857, started life as a Manor House for Quaker William John Lucas and his family – there is a road named Lucas Lane after the family, just north of the care home.

The building was then converted into a maternity ward from 1939 to 1951, before being used as a Catholic boarding school for boys in the 1960s.

Having also been a home for retired priests, the building became a nursing home in 1987 before being demolished in 2010, after receiving a £6.75m cash injection to transform it into a luxury residential care home that opened its doors in 2012.

Since then, the home, set in 18 acres of sprawling Hertfordshire countryside, has received many letters and emails from people in the area who have a connection to the building and want to share their stories and memories with those who are currently using it.

This gave the Foxholes team the idea of launching ‘The History of Foxholes’, which seeks to find and

Foxholes Care Home as it looks today. discover people’s special relationship with the building and connect them with others who might have a story to tell.

Estate manager Neil Gandecha said: “We regularly get emails sent in from people in the local community who are curious to know how the building has changed since they last were here, whether that was when it was a boarding school or maternity hospital.

“People have actually asked to come and visit the home so they can reimagine their past. It was the sentiment behind this that gave us the idea to start a history hunt.”

The home is asking for anyone who

has a connection to the building to get in touch by sending in their stories via email, or by posting them on Foxholes’ social media platforms; Facebook and Instagram.

Neil added: “It can be an image of you, a relative or a friend in the building, or a story on your connection with it. Regardless, we’d love to hear them all.

“The plan will be to create a book on the history of Foxholes and a special ‘wall of memory’ in the entrance of the home that tells everyone’s story.

“We have heard everything from ghost stories to rumours of a bomb being dropped on the estate during the war that never exploded.”

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7

CARINGWEEKLY

Resident celebrates her 104th birthday at York care home PHYLLIS Ferguson, better known as Peggy, celebrated her milestone 104th birthday at Ebor Court in Nether Poppleton.

Staff at the care home gave Peggy a special birthday despite their original plans being cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Lifestyle manager Susie Carman said: “Working in the care industry is such a rewarding career and being involved in such monumental celebrations is a huge privilege.

“I am thrilled Peggy enjoyed her 104th birthday and felt truly special.

She is such a wonderful lady and completely deserves it.”

Born in Knaresborough in 1916, Peggy was one of nine children of Walter and Maria Hodge, who worked together tailoring women’s clothes.

After leaving school aged just 14, Peggy began working at Ackrill’s Printers, based in Harrogate.

Throughout her working life she also took up post as a ticketing clerk at the Knaresborough ticket office and as a packer on the production line at the Rowntree’s factory in York.

It was while working at the ticket office that Peggy met her husband Alan. The pair married in 1943 and spent an 71 years together.

Despite not being able to host the full party that had been planned, staff at Ebor Court made sure Peggy enjoyed her birthday nonetheless.

Deliveries of flowers, cards, chocolates and presents filled her room and she enjoyed FaceTime calls with her son and grandchildren.

Staff sang ‘happy birthday’ to Peggy and presented her with a red velvet cake and a glass of her favourite

A North Yorkshire care group has teamed up with a local baker to provide each of its staff with a hamper of food as a reward for their hard work during the coronavirus pandemic. Saint Cecilia’s Care Group called in Scarborough baker Cooplands to create 160 hampers for each of its staff, who have been caring for older and vulnerable people throughout Covid-19. The delivery of a hamper to each member of staff follows on from the company’s decision to give each of its staff a Covid-19 pay bonus.

More carers needed to help support local communities Phyllis Ferguson, better known as Peggy, celebrated her 104th birthday at Ebor Court.

Harveys sherry to celebrate.

Peggy, who has lived at Ebor Court since last May, believes the secret to a long life is a daily dose of cod-liver oil.

She said: “I have had a wonderful birthday and really enjoyed myself.

Despite not being able to see all of my friends and family in person, we have enjoyed video calling one another which has been great.

“I am very thankful to the staff at Ebor Court for everything they have done – my cake was beautiful; they have made me feel very special.”

A NATIONAL home care provider is calling for people to take up a career as a community carer at a time of national crisis, and to really help make a difference to their local community.

Guinness Care is looking for people with or without experience in adult social care to join them in care roles across the UK – perhaps someone who has the necessary transferable skills from previous employment and would like a career that really makes a difference to people’s lives.

Managing director Paul Watson said that with the possibility of current carers having to self-isolate, they will be reassured to know that there are others to step into the role to continue keeping their customers safe and well.

He added: “In these very difficult

and challenging times vulnerable people need care and support now more than ever. This is a real opportunity for people to take up a career in community care, to help people live their life as normally as possible and allow them to remain in their own homes.”

Coronavirus has meant Guinness Care has had to look at new ways of carrying out its training for new recruits.

For personal safety it will be possible for interviews to be carried out via telephone. There will be faster DBS checks and flexible contracts on offer.

Induction training will be face to face for the first three days, with social distancing being enforced, then the rest of the training will be virtual.

Implications of the Corona Act on care for homes and domiciliary agencies

By Hilary Cragg THE key purpose behind the legislation in respect of the Corona Act was to ensure that efforts are directed towards getting people out of hospital when it is clinically safe to do so.

What the Act did was change the duty of the local authority into a power.

A duty is something that the local authority has to do, as power is something that they can choose to exercise, so parts of the Care Act regarding duties towards residents in the area are temporarily suspended.

Importantly, the duty to promote wellbeing is not altered and the Human Rights Act is not affected, which in respect of care is mostly likely to be the right to family life, ie to be cared for at home.

The local authority has always been able to take account of its own resources in making decisions for people with care needs.

The well-known case of Elaine

Hilary Cragg McDonald, who wanted an overnight carer to assist with her toileting needs and the local authority said that pads were sufficient, makes this point clearly.

So how will this impact people being discharged from hospital?

Anyone who can be discharged safely is being done so, quickly, either out into a care home or their own home,

which is putting pressure on care homes and domiciliary care agencies.

The care provider will therefore have to be very careful about accepting the new client, as their care plan might not be as well drafted as it might have been at other times.

And because it is generally not permitted to meet the patient whilst in hospital, the care plan is all the information that they have.

All discharge patients should be tested for corona before discharge, so that the virus is not accidentally brought into a care home.

There is government advice on what to do if corona gets into a care home to minimise the risk of it spreading between residents: https://assets.publishing.service. gov.uk/government/uploads/ system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/880274/Admission_and_Care_ of_Residents_during_COVID-19_ Incident_in_a_Care_Home.pdf Care homes will need to be clear about their charges for any resident that they think might not be routine

or will need to show the local authority a detailed care plan for anyone for whom they wish to charge more or be prepared to serve notice.

For people needing the services of the local authority or NHS, it will take longer and is likely to be less efficient and those people will not want to complain in this global crisis, making mistakes or mishaps easier to happen, as they will be tolerated.

And with care homes closed to visitors, the potential risk of abuse will increase.

People coming out of hospital still deserve to get the best outcome from the situation as they can, to be treated with respect and as an individual.

Since the wellbeing mandate has not been lost, to maximise their wellbeing as far as it can be achieved.

The mantra of “stay safe” will need to cover to the running of care homes and care agencies more than ever during this crisis. n Hilary Cragg is a Partner and Practicing Solicitor at Nash & Co Solicitors.

8

CARINGWEEKLY

‘Virtual Postcards’ lift the spirits of group’s residents Residents Margaret and John Webster sing on their balconies.

Residents sing from balconies to bring joy and happiness THE residents of Castle View retirement village in Windsor have taken to their balconies to sing and exercise together to keep their spirits high in the current situation and spreading a little joy and happiness, As well as the Dame Vera Lynn classic ‘We’ll meet again’, other old favourites included ‘Always look on the bright side of life’ and ‘Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag’, while in between, Fionah Matthew instructed the group in some gentle exercises.

“It was fantastic,” said Lisa Fisher, village manager of Castle View, Windsor.

“Led by our sales manager Ruth Wilson on lead vocals everyone was game to give it a go – such spirit and camaraderie. I am really proud of them all.”

All the residents agreed that they should self-lockdown as a group in the village ahead of the Government’s decision to get everyone to isolate at home.

And, to support them, Lisa and her dog Benjy and restaurant manager Caz Hughes moved in with additional support from other members of staff.

CEO Robin Hughes added: “The resolute spirit and unity shown by staff and residents is exceptional.

“Castle View is a fantastic place to live where our residents are able to mix with like-minded people, the importance of which is particularly evident right now.

“There is a great sense of fellowship and camaraderie where everyone can socialise together, keep fit and healthy and be fully supported by our talented and committed staff.”

RESIDENTS at more than 75 care homes across the UK will no longer have to wait for the morning post to receive well-wishes from family and friends during the coronavirus lock down, after a new digital communications initiative was introduced.

Care home operator Shaw healthcare has developed the new ‘Virtual Postcard’ feature on the home page of its website as part of its efforts to keep up the spirits of residents, who have been unable to receive their usual visits for more than a month as a result of COVID-19 restrictions.

“Our care teams, and in particular the activity co-ordinators in each home, are doing everything they can to keep residents busy and entertained during this really difficult time, but there is nothing like receiving a postcard from family and friends to cheer people up,” said Mike Smith, chief operating office at Shaw healthcare.

“The main focus of everyone at the moment it is to keep our residents and staff members safe during the crisis.

“However, we know from messages we’ve received from families that many of them are also finding it hard being separated from their loved ones.

“Hopefully this will make a bit of a difference and residents may even find they start receiving more messages from their younger relatives, who are far more likely to

Activities champion Cheryl Teuber and resident Ivy King. send a virtual postcard than sit down and write a long letter.”

Friends and family members can click on the Virtual Postcard icon on the firm’s website, type in the name of the recipient, select their care home and create a personal message for their loved one.

Staff at each home are then able to call up the postcard on a tablet to show the resident or print off a copy for them to keep.

Shaw hopes its Virtual Postcards will prove to be a big hit with family and friends, as an easy way to keep in touch and send messages of love and support to residents.

Firm steps up to meet demand A HERTFORDSHIRE businessman is on the hunt for new care workers as his at-home care company, Visiting Angels, races to meet the demand for care in the region.

While many businesses have no choice but to close in the wake of COVID-19, Gareth Redmayne says it is more important than ever to push ahead with both recruitment of care workers and the growth of the business.

Alongside registered care manager Carron Martin, Gareth is putting the duo’s combined knowledge and experience to good use in the community.

“Of course, we could have scaled back or even temporarily closed the business in light of what’s happening,” he said.

“But now, more than ever, families need support, people need care and people need jobs.

“I’m determined to make a genuine difference to people’s lives at this most difficult time.”

Amidst the ever-evolving coronavirus outbreak, Visiting Angels also hopes to alleviate pressure on local hospitals by helping to get people back into their homes, freeing up beds for virus patients.

Visiting Angels South Hertfordshire’s managing director Gareth Redmayne.

Classified as critical workers, “Obviously, the priority at this time Gareth’s team are working tirelessly is the health, safety and wellbeing of in the community to provide care our staff and our clients,” he added. and companionship to the elderly “We’re doing all that we can to and vulnerable who are selfensure everyone is protected with isolating, as well as those whose strict hygiene and sanitation as well families can no longer support them as the social distancing policies in due to their own isolation or illness. place.

Based in Hatfield, Visiting Angels “But people’s lives quite literally is on the hunt for more local care depend on the work that we – and workers to satisfy the growing others like us all over the county demand for its service.

– are doing. I’m incredibly proud Gareth has already recruited six of my team for their attitude and carers into the team but plans to commitment. recruit 15 new members of staff in “Many of them have families of the coming months. their own to consider but their

unwavering compassion for others sees them out in the community day in, day out. It’s truly inspiring and I can’t thank them enough.”

Gareth’s own background includes working in older people’s medicine before becoming a commissioner for healthcare services.

In 2012 he worked with the Singapore Government, setting up an innovative lung health service and in 2015 spent several years in Qatar working on the set-up of a mega hospital as part of the World Cup Project.

Last year, feeling the pull of home, Gareth decided to launch Visiting Angels.

“I’d always wanted to have my own business – even from a young age – and I felt that, with all my experience, senior care was the obvious choice,” he added.

“I know in my heart what good care looks like; I’ve seen it all over the world. I was determined to use my knowledge and experience to the advantage of the people of Hertfordshire.

“By standing strong in the face of this crisis, we join the army of frontline workers across the country.

Together we will help the nation get through this.”

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CARINGWEEKLY

New care home commissioned by health and social care partners NEW Care is saving lives during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The operator recently completed build on a state-of-the-art care facility in Bramhall (Cheshire), which was immediately commissioned in its entirety by the Council and NHS in Stockport, to free up beds at Stepping Hill Hospital.

The purpose-built Bramhall Manor has 71 fully furnished bedrooms with en-suite facilities, communal lounges, dining rooms, libraries and extensive gardens.

Stepping Hill Hospital has already started to transfer patients who are well enough to be discharged from hospital but need rehabilitation and further assessment to identify their ongoing care needs before returning home.

Cath Fairhurst, chief operating officer at New Care, said: “COVID-19 has put massive immediate pressure on the NHS. “However, the current situation has also highlighted the ongoing huge shortfall of beds in hospitals, many of which are in use by stable patients who have been medically discharged but require rehabilitation before returning home.

“There is quite simply nowhere for these patients to go, so they remain in hospital blocking beds.

“As a registered nurse and in all my years of experience working in the health sector, we are navigating our way through unprecedented times.

A fresh approach to the provision of care facilities and beds is needed now more than ever before.

“Bramhall Manor will now be used to free up hospital beds at Stepping Hill Hospital by providing a care pathway for medically stabilised patients, who would otherwise stay in hospital for prolonged periods.

“The contract with the NHS will not only assist with the current crisis, but when Coronavirus is under control there will undoubtedly be a need for more care home beds to deal with the longer-term implications of the more vulnerable patients.”

New Care currently has a number of proposed care homes in for planning across the UK and is well underway with construction with several more.

The company is keen to deliver the much needed care beds, not only

to cater for the needs of the most vulnerable in society, but also to provide allocated beds to the NHS to use to ease pressure within local hospitals.

In Wilmslow (Cheshire) the provider has resubmitted a previously ‘refused’ planning application for a 60-bed care facility.

The application was refused planning permission in January despite having a strong recommendation for approval by Cheshire East Planning Authority.

The application is also in the appeal system, however New Care is now asking the Council to reconsider and to grant consent at the earliest possible opportunity rather than waiting months for the appeal process to run its course so that this additional care facility can be delivered.

Local MP Esther McVey previously objected to this care facility.

New Care is urging her to visit Bramhall Manor and to support its planning application for Wilmslow, not only on a local level but also due to national need in light of the pandemic.

They contacted her to see if she intended to support the application, but her office wasn’t available for a comment.

Village secures ‘Good’ Residents and staff rating across the board to cycle for the NHS STATE-of-the-art community care village Belong Warrington has been certified as ‘Good’ by Care Quality Commission inspectors, who praised its ‘passionate and committed team’.

The latest report from the independent regulator of health and social care in England rated the village as ‘Good’ in all categories, declaring it as a safe, caring, and well-led provider of care which promotes a good quality of life and meets the needs of its residents.

General manager Claire Bibby said: “The ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of the team we have here at Belong.

“We enjoy a great team spirit, which we’ll need more than ever in the coming weeks as we rise to the challenge of supporting our customers through the impact of the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak.

“We’ve been really touched by the messages of support from our local community and have robust measures in place to ensure we can continue supporting older people to minimise the risks of Covid-19.

“Our teams are also continuing to provide creative ways of promoting wellbeing, which will prove essential through the period of social distancing or isolation that may lie ahead.”

The CQC report described how the team at the not-for-profit care

General manager Claire Bibby. provider showed pride in their work, and highlighted their dedication to providing a range of activities and events that were personally special to residents.

Inspectors also drew attention to the village’s leadership, describing its management as one that promotes a positive and empowering culture, and ensures all team members are clear about their roles.

The report also noted that Belong Warrington continually considers how it can enhance the service it provides.

RESIDENTS and staff at Oakview Lodge Care Home in Welwyn Garden City kicked off a static cycle ride of more than 1,042 miles as the team bid to raise funds for the NHS Charities Together and Age Concern.

Leading the pack of riders is 91-year-old resident John Nash, who started the fundraising effort by cycling the first stretch of miles.

He was one of the brains behind the idea and his birthday falls on April 24, when he is planning to celebrate by putting in yet more miles.

John will be joined by residents and staff throughout the week, who will be taking it in turns to travel as far as they can.

“We are very excited to be joining the effort to raise funds for the NHS,” said home manager Andrew Stoner.

“As a care and nursing home we work closely with our colleagues in the NHS, and being located across the road from the QEII hospital we know how hard everyone is working at the moment.

“The NHS is amazing. It is there for us at the most profound moments in our lives, no matter who we are or what we need.

“There are 250 NHS charities in the UK providing funds and services above and beyond what the NHS alone can provide. Every day NHS charities give £1million to the NHS so we wanted to do what we can to contribute.”

The team at the care home decided to add up the distance between all of

County Court’s 32 care homes across the UK, which gave them their target of 1,042 miles.

To allow residents the opportunity to participate, the ride will be done on a stationary bike located in the care home.

Oakview Lodge cares for up to 64 residents and as many as possible will be taking part, to make it a real team effort.

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CARINGWEEKLY

Easter celebrations at Stockport care homes

Resident celebrates 101st birthday amid virus crisis THE whole community at a Llanidloes care home paused recently to recognise a remarkable milestone as resident Nancy Marion Griffiths celebrated her 101st birthday.

‘Nance’ lives at Maes-Y-Wennol, which is run by Shaw healthcare, although she was born and raised in Kidwelly, south Wales, where she also met her husband, Roy. They moved several times and eventually settled in Newtown.

Sandra Holt, manager at MaesY-Wennol, said: “Nance is such a wonderful character in our home who says the secret to a long life is feeling young – she often remarks that she is 21 at heart.

“We were delighted to be able to celebrate such a special birthday with her, especially during such a difficult time and it was fantastic to see so many at Maes-Y-Wennol joining in the celebrations.”

Like care homes across the country, staff at Maes-Y-Wennol are working around the clock to keep residents safe, as well as doing what they can to keep up residents’ spirits.

Nance, who is feeling fit and well despite her advancing years, was treated to cake and champagne to mark the momentous occasion.

She had phone calls from her family on the day, as well as lots of cards and gifts from friends and family.

Free digital switchboard service offered to keep businesses talking CARE homes and providers can benefit from a free Digital Switchboard service as leading outsourced communications provider Moneypenny pledges to help the sector manage heightened call volumes during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The offer will be particularly valuable to those within the sector who are struggling to manage the volume of inbound calls, particularly where reception teams can no longer be based on site, they do not have the technology to manage the switchboard remotely or staff are on sick-leave.

Stephanie Vaughan-Jones, commercial manager for healthcare at Moneypenny, said: “Covid19 is presenting huge challenges for the care sector at the moment and understandably they are receiving a large number of calls from patients’ families as well as other healthcare providers and support services.

“Phones ringing out are a distraction for care providers and unanswered calls could result in people arriving at care homes and facilities when they should really stay away.

“With resource in limited supply, the care sector needs to be able to answer and field high volumes of calls efficiently, with minimal physical effort and input.”

Moneypenny’s Digital Switchboard system is fully automated and operates just like a traditional switchboard, without the need for a receptionist.

The system can answer high volumes of calls and field them efficiently, directing callers to the appropriate person or department.

Featuring natural language speech recognition, the system puts callers in control by enabling them to self-serve with impressive accuracy levels.

In the unusual event that the system doesn’t recognise a voice query, or an enquiry is more complex, the caller will be transferred to a failover option or a real PA at Moneypenny.

Digital Switchboard uses carefully designed AI voice technology and is the most advanced and accurate automated switchboard in the cloud.

Terms: Offer cannot be claimed in conjunction with any other offers. Volume of daily calls per client is subject to a fair use policy. Optional call handling overflow support from Moneypenny PAs is chargeable. Moneypenny reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any point.

Enquiries: Visit https://www.moneypenny.com/ uk/digital-switchboard/ or call 0333 202 1005.

RESIDENTS at Borough Care’s 11 homes for older people across Stockport enjoyed a weekend of Easter celebrations.

Despite the current coronavirus situation, staff were determined residents would have a fun time and put on lots of different themed activities.

A three course lunch was enjoyed by residents and there were lots of eggs and other tempting chocolate treats.

Residents tried their hand at Easter crafts, played games and sent cards to their loved ones.

Dr Mark Ward, CEO at Borough Care, and Isla Wilson, board chair, showed their appreciation to staff and residents by delivering Easter eggs around the homes.

Mark said: “Our wonderful staff are working tirelessly in these challenging times and we wanted to say a big thank you to them and also to our resilient residents who are coping with things admirably.

“Our staff pulled out all the stops to make sure we marked Easter with a variety of activities for residents to enjoy.”

Residents at Bruce Lodge in Offerton modelled their bonnets, while those at Wellcroft in Gatley got all creative making baskets.

Residents at Bryn Haven, in Brinnington, were wished a happy Easter by their neighbours who came to wave through the windows to them. And at Silverdale in Bredbury residents had a film evening, watching the seasonally appropriate

Bruce Lodge resident Erica Rigby models her Easter bonnet. movie Easter Parade.

Singing duo Lisa and Adam Maggs, who usually regularly visit Borough Care’s homes to entertain residents, put on a special virtual performance.

Residents loved seeing them perform remotely. Joining in with the singing and dancing really lifted everyone’s spirits.

Medequip turns training into action at COVID-19 units

ACROSS the country it’s a growing challenge for companies to make vital deliveries and install equipment to help reduce the load on hospitals and critical care facilities.

When Gallions View Care home in Greenwich was being set up as a specialist centre for COVID19 patients to ease the burden on the local hospital and other care facilities, the Medequip team based at Woolwich was tasked with installing beds and associated items to equip 30 care rooms.

Medequip Centre of Excellence trainer Paul Cockburn proposed a novel solution.

He said: “With 10 trainees on my cohort at our training centre in Woolwich, it seemed like an excellent idea to put their studies and knowledge to good use in support of our team on the ground.

“Following discussions and planning with our local operational team, it was decided to mobilise our newest technicians to complete the work.”

The equipment was delivered in to the care home, some of it directly from suppliers and some from Medequip’s Woolwich depot.

At 9am on April 7 the team of trainees began work; no special PPE was needed as the facility was empty, awaiting its first patients.

By lunchtime they had successfully installed a

total of 30 Accora floor beds (low level profiling beds) and mattresses, commodes, overbed tables and high back chairs as well as two mobile hoists and two floor standing hoists, and the rooms were ready to admit their first patients.

Following the success of this initiativ, the team of trainees has been in action again, this time at Time Court in Charlton, a care unit with COVID-19 patients already on the wards.

Medequip took extra care with governmentapproved PPE, maintaining strict distancing from patients and staff. Within 90 minutes four beds had been installed, complete with siderails, mattresses and two hoists, all ready for use with minimal disruption to the work on the unit.

Medequip’s MD David Griffiths added: “This is a great example of the Medequip team at its very best, working together for the good of our service users, using ingenuity and expertise to make sure we can match the new challenges we are currently facing on a daily basis.” n The above image was taken at the start of the trainees’ education programme, before the implementation of social distancing.

Enquiries: Email matthew.ward@ medequip-uk.com

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CARINGWEEKLY Advertiser’s announcement

Keeping track of policies and procedures ...

Food parcels and Easter eggs delivered to care home teams

By Philippa Shirtcliffe IN this fast moving pandemic, events move quickly.

So rapidly in fact that legislation and best practice sometimes struggle to keep pace.

Take infection control and prevention best practice, for example. As head of care quality at Quality Compliance Systems, a recurring issue is personal protective equipment.

You only have to switch on the news to know that it’s in short supply and that carers seem to be the last front line service to receive it.

But, it’s not just the lack of supply that’s been worrying care workers.

They’re also confused about compliance and basic protocol regarding the correct use of PPE. Over the past few months, a large number of QCS’ customers told us that Public Health England’s local and national guidelines surrounding PPE lacked consistency.

PHE’s regional guidelines, for instance, stated even if nobody in a home displayed symptoms of COVID19, carers needed to wear gloves, an apron and a mask. PHE’s national advice stated the exact opposite.

The care sector fed back their concerns to PHE and spoke to industry bodies. To its great credit, PHE listened to those on the front line.

It then took swift and decisive action to provide clarity. On Friday it published a specialist guidance on the use of PPE entitled ‘How to work safely in care homes.’

The document is easy to digest and provides clear answers to many of the most sought after questions.

Most importantly, it lays out PPE best practice not on a regional or a national basis but in terms of defined scenarios, of which there are two.

Philippa Shirtcliffe Essentially, when care workers are performing any task where they need to be within two metres of a client – such as meal or medication rounds – they should wear a surgical mask and consider eye protection. However, there is no requirement for them to wear gloves or a plastic apron.

Secondly, the guidance states that when care workers are in communal areas where service users are present and potentially within two metres of residents, they should wear a surgical mask, but gloves, apron and eye protection are not required.

The document, which spans 12 pages, also includes two case studies, which help bring to life the guidance that PHE has set out, while a flowchart enables carers to check understanding quickly and easily.

QCS has added PHE’s guidance on PPE to its Coronavirus Hub. Our hub, which is free to access, contains a number of specially crafted Coronavirus pandemic policies and procedures (https://www.qcs.co.uk/ coronavirus-updates/), all of which have been written by our policy team.

We’re constantly updating our hub to ensure that frontline workers are always ahead of the curve.

Rebecca Zartarian and Simon Robinson, directors of Bluebird Care Cheshire West and Flintshire, have treated their staff who have been so positive and professional in the face of the COVID-19 crisis.

They arranged for each care assistant to receive a pamper package containing hand cream to help soften their hands from all the precautionary handwashing. They also contained a scented candle to help them relax after a busy shift and some chocolate.

Rebecca said: “This was just one small way we could show our team how grateful we are for the amazing job they are doing. Their positive attitude and compassion for others throughout this crisis is so inspiring.”

HARDWORKING staff at an operator’s care homes all received special care parcels for the Easter weekend.

After going the extra mile for elderly residents, Encore were keen to look after the welfare of its own carers and support staff.

To make daily life easier they delivered more than 400 care parcels to all its staff including those that are in self-isolation.

The box contained a variety of essential food items such as fresh fruit and vegetables, milk and tinned goods.

Chief executive Rachel Dryden said: “We are beyond proud of our incredible staff that range from carers, housekeeping to catering.

“They have been doing a fantastic job and we really do appreciate their dedication to our residents in these difficult times.

“We have been supporting them as much as we possibly can through

many new initiatives to make life easier.”

To celebrate the Easter weekend all residents and staff at the group’s care homes in Christchurch, Poole and Southampton also received a chocolate egg.

Steve Whitwam, sales and marketing director of Harvest Fine Foods, added: “Harvest is delighted to be working with Encore to support members of their team with essential food boxes.

It is so nice to support a business who looks after their team in this way and has great core values.”

Encore is currently recruiting additional staff on a full and part time basis in key roles such as health care assistants and in key teams such as catering, wellbeing and reception/ admin.

There are also opportunities to volunteer if you have some spare time and would like to help in the care homes.

iHASCO offers free training to all key workers across the UK

BRACKNELL based eLearning provider iHASCO has announced that all UK key workers can obtain free access to its Mental Health Awareness and Infection Prevention and Control training programmes.

The announcement was made shortly after they were listed on the Crown Commercial Service’s COVID-19 Catalogue of supplier offers.

Mental health and wellbeing has long been high up on the agenda for employers, but now it’s more important than ever before.

The coronavirus pandemic could have a ‘profound’ effect on people’s mental health – now and in the future, say psychiatrists and psychologists who are calling for urgent research.

It’s the same with Infection Prevention and Control training; important in day-to-day life but with the recent Coronavirus pandemic affecting tens of thousands in the UK alone, it’s crucial that key workers are given high-quality training to stop the spread of the virus and save lives.

iHASCO’s Mental Health Awareness Course is IOSH approved and recently won the THS Health and Safety Awards.

The Infection Prevention and Control training has been recently updated and is currently in the IOSH approval process.

They also offer two variations of the courses listed above that have been specifically designed for the care sector.

“We can’t thank our key workers enough for the sacrifices they are making everyday, but if our training can help those who are struggling with mental ill-health or even contributes to stopping the spread of COVID-19, then we’ve made a genuine difference,” said Alex Morris, director at iHASCO. If you’re a key worker or you’re an employer of key workers, get in touch with iHASCO today and they can get your account set up free of charge.

Enquiries: Visit https://www.ihasco.co.uk or call 01344 867088.

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