Caring uk Weekly February 28

Group launches ‘Chef Academy’ apprenticeship

A CARE group has launched a new apprenticeship academy for budding chefs.

Aria has partnered with training provider Lifetime to offer its Chef Academy in response to industry-wide challenges in recruitment.

The academy aims to support people with their development and career prospects and nurture Aria’s own homegrown culinary talent.

As a rolling programme, the apprenticeship is open to people of all ages, offers nationally recognised qualifications and the opportunity to learn more about the hospitality industry, which people can join throughout the year.

Five apprentices have already attended two masterclasses –the first in Billingsgate Market, London in October, which also marked the official launch of the academy; and the second which took place recently.

James Clear, director of hospitality at Aria Care, said: “Every day is a learning day as a chef. As a group we invest in our training and apprenticeships provide an exciting opportunity for people to gain nationally recognised qualifications, learn more about the hospitality industry, and achieve the next steps in their role.

“The masterclasses are hands-on courses which not only have all the candidates

learning together and encouraging each other, but also gives them the opportunity to witness the skills of our experienced chef trainers first hand.”

In addition to the launch of the chef academy, Aria Care has also rolled out new crockery into each of its communities.

The duck-egg blue Churchill stonewash crockery is designed to offer a day-to-day premium dining experience, while its independence toolkit of crockery, cutlery and drinkware supports residents with dexterity challenges and visual impairment, while still providing a high-level experience.

James added: “From the chef academy to the introduction of new crockery, our aim is to always provide the very best experience for the people living in our communities. Food and drink is really important for social interaction and comfort, but we know there’s still a big stigma around care home food.

“We provide ‘hospitality from the heart’ with a nutrition and hydration framework which is shared with all of our homes.

“The crockery is important to offer a premium style dining experience, while the independent tool kit further supports residents to ensure everyone is able to enjoy their food and get the most from this time.”

Stormzy must triumph at the Brit Awards on Saturday, insist music-loving care home residents. Hamberley Care Homes across the nation have got residents voting for their favourite nominee in the ‘Song Of The Year’ category during fun-filled listening sessions. While he faced stiff competition from fellow nominees Lewis Capaldi and Ed Sheeran, nothing could stop Stormzy’s track ‘Firebabe’ from snatching victory. Each care home got a group of residents together to watch the ten nominated songs on YouTube. Some of the more edgy videos and lyrics raised eyebrows, but everyone thoroughly enjoyed channelling their inner Simon Cowell. Homemaker Alex Orsos said: “It was so surprising that some of the residents liked the rap songs competing for the ‘Song of The Year’ award. It’s nice to know all ages can appreciate music of any genre.”

Home launches community hub

RESIDENTS of Ghyll Royd Care Home in Guiseley were joined by members of the local community for the launch of the new Four Leaves Community Hub.

The hub, which will be held on the third Wednesday of every month, aims to bring together residents and the wider community to enjoy social activities, refreshments and build connections.

A fun-filled Yeadon and Guiseley quiz tested local knowledge, while a friendly game of dominoes provided an opportunity for gentle competition and conversation.

A highlight of the event was the vote for Ghyll Royd’s charity of the year. After much deliberation, the winning charity was

announced as AVSED, a local organisation dedicated to supporting Aireborough seniors in preventing social isolation.

“We were thrilled with the turnout and positive feedback for the launch of the Four Leaves Community Hub,” said Nichola Harrison, home manager at Ghyll Royd.

“It was wonderful to see residents and members of the community coming together, enjoying themselves, and voting for a worthy cause. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for another fun-filled afternoon.”

The Four Leaves Community Hub is open to all members of the Guiseley community, regardless of age or background.

Homecare provider announces transformation programme

BLUEBIRD Care has announced a wholesale transformation and growth programme to the value of £600,000 to be invested over the next year.

The investment comes eight months into chief executive officer Jonathan Gardner’s tenure and marks the start of Bluebird Care’s 20th anniversary.

He said: “I am delighted to unveil our comprehensive investment plan, which reflects our commitment to providing high-quality care services while driving innovation and growth in the sector.

“It all starts with our care experts, and so much of the work we have planned over the coming months focuses on how we can equip them, through our committed franchise partners, to thrive and deliver the very best for those we support.

“We’ve got a really strong leadership team in place, all of whom have extensive experience in care or franchise businesses – or both.

“I have every confidence that together we can take the excellent

work of our franchise partners and teams to the next level, throughout the full continuum of care.”

The strategy is aimed at supporting the development of care experts and franchise partners to deliver high quality premium home care services that span the full continuum of care.

With 235 business in the franchise network, the substantial investment

from the home care provider will benefit local communities and healthcare systems right across the UK and Ireland.

The network has already seen the impact of early investments, including the doubling of the field support team, the roll-out of a new quality and compliance app, a new quality and compliance network-wide committee to ensure best practice is consistently achieved.

Bluebird Care is also investing in its workforce and the support it provides to franchise partners – a new in-house training scheme and Registered Managers Academy will provide Bluebird Care teams with the resources and training to deliver exceptional care, and this will be joined by a refreshed employee value proposition.

Signalling its commitment to providing care for people at all stages of their life, and for a broad range of customers, Bluebird Care is also investing in the expansion of its live-

in care offer.

Already the largest provider of live-in care services in the UK, the investment will equip businesses to grow this offer further and raise awareness of the different care options available to people.

Several new executive roles have been created under the investment programme, joining long-standing members of the Bluebird Care team to steer the franchise in its growth mission.

Claire Ronan has joined from Prestige as the new director of people, supported by two new regional people partner roles; Nicola Jones has joined as finance director; Lesley Cobb has been appointed as director of transformation; Dean Martin as director of marketing; Ted Richardson has been appointed to a new head of live-in care position; and Neil Murray continues in his role as director of care, quality and compliance, where he will be supported by the creation of three new quality manager roles.

Tattoo raises more than £10,000 for charity

MORE than £10,000 has been raised for veterans’ charity Royal Star & Garter at the Birmingham International Tattoo.

Residents and staff from the charity’s Home in Solihull were among the guests at the military spectacular, which took place at the Resorts World Arena.

A total of £10,300 was raised for Royal Star & Garter through bucket collections, programme sales and contactless payments on the day.

Royal Star & Garter chief executive Andy Cole said: “It was great to be back at the Birmingham International Tattoo, and I’d like to thank the organisers for once again supporting Royal Star & Garter.

“Thanks must also go to our volunteers, and the generous Tattoo audience.

“This money raised will help us continue providing exceptional care to veterans and their partners.”

Royal Star & Garter has been one of the Birmingham International Tattoo’s chosen charities since 2007.

During that time more than £136,000 has been raised for the charity.

Volunteers, including Department for Healthcare Education military student nurses and members from Co-op Funeralcare branches in Wednesbury and Wednesfield, also helped fundraise for Royal Star & Garter.

Dreams come true for home’s residents

DREAMS are coming true for residents at a specialist dementia care home who are being supported by staff to revisit favourite activities they thought they were no longer able to do.

Ideas for entries for a wish-list entitled ‘If only I could’ have been put forward by staff members after individual chats with the people they support.

Sarah McCaffrey, deputy manager at Butterfly Lodge, said: “It takes a bit of determination when you’re talking to someone with dementia but it’s not too hard to establish which activities they used to favour, and which ones they fantasise about doing again.

“They’re not always complicated wishes, but obviously we have to do the appropriate planning to help make their dreams come true once we’ve found out what they are.”

Resident Molly Coyne had shared with Butterfly Lodge staff that she and her husband had ridden motorcycles throughout their marriage and used to go biking together for many miles on days out in their youth.

absolutely delighted.”

For life-long Plymouth Argyle fans David Harris and John Walsh, a return to the team’s ground at Home Park was top of their wish list.

Sarah said: “Both gentlemen were

season ticket holders all their lives and went to every match before their health deteriorated and family were unable to continue to take them.

“Health and mobility issues make it impossible for them to attend a full 90-minute match, but when the homecoming parade was announced last year, Kelly Tennant on our activities team contacted Argyle and arranged for them both to be able to go to Home Park and witness the parade.

“David’s daughter Tania and Kelly went with them, and the gents were so happy to be back at their old stamping ground. The experience clearly meant the world to them.”

Meanwhile for resident Audrey Cox, her dearest wish was to visit Marks and Spencer for a girly shopping trip.

Sarah added: “Two colleagues took Audrey to M&S and they all had a lovely time browsing the store.

“Audrey bought make-up, some new undies and other clothes, then they enjoyed a pub lunch together before returning home. She said it made her feel young again.”

Sarah added: “Molly told us she used to own a BMW bike which was very similar to the bike ridden by Paul Hutt, our activities coordinator, so he brought his bike in and her wish was simply to sit astride it: she was

Molly Coyne on the motorbike.

Jonathan Gardner

Home embarks on a virtual escape

RESIDENTS from Care South’s Wickmeads care home in Bournemouth enjoyed a spirited celebration of Australia Day.

In commemoration of the 1788 landing of the First Fleet and the raising of the Union Flag at Sydney Cove, Wickmeads transformed the day into a week-long festivity of activities, bringing the warmth and vibrancy of Australia to its residents.

They were taken on a virtual escape to the sun, immersing them in the rich and diverse culture of Australia.

Activities lead Hudson Hougham added: “Our Australian week celebrations have been a great journey for residents in our care, fostering a deeper connection with the vibrant culture of Australia through food, fun and friendship.

“Through engaging activities and virtual escapades, we’ve not only celebrated Australia Day but also created meaningful opportunities for residents to learn, share and embrace the rich history and diversity of this

captivating country.”

The celebration began with an exploration of Aboriginal history, art, and language, allowing residents to gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous heritage of this remarkable land.

Residents eagerly embraced their creative sides during art sessions, trying their hand at Australianinspired artworks. The engaging activities continued with an Australia quiz.

One of the highlights of the celebration was an armchair travel adventure, guided by a virtual travel companion. Residents embarked on a journey through the country’s landscapes and culture, all experienced through YouTube videos.

The home’s chef also brought the taste of Australia to the celebrations. Residents enjoyed an array of authentic ‘tucker’, with everyone savouring the delights of an Aussie meat pie, an omelette dish and individual pavlovas.

Casino night in aid of charity

PORTSDOWN View in Bedhampton held its first casino night to raise money for Dementia Support.

Residents, families and people from the local community were invited to play games of roulette, black jack and croupiers at the on-site Langstone Bistro & Bar; with welcome cocktails and canapés served on arrival.

Dorota Ozturk, deputy manager at Portsdown View, said: “The crucial thing when developing a care plan is to take a person’s unique needs and personal circumstances into account. By giving them a voice in the

Mayoral candidate backs total reform of adult social care

A CANDIDATE in the forthcoming mayoral election in York and North Yorkshire has thrown his weight behind reform of adult social care.

Independent candidate Keith Tordoff says the sector needs root and branch reform to make it fit for purpose to serve the needs of older and vulnerable adults in the region.

“Nothing less than total reform of the sector will be good enough,” he said.

“The demographic of York and North Yorkshire, with a strong representation of older people, demands that we treat their care far more seriously than we currently do.

“Chronic under-funding, a lack of proper pay and recognition for the workforce and providers leaving the sector will all need to be tackled if we are to provide the care that people deserve.

“We should be judged as a society by the way we look after our older people and at the moment we are letting them down.

“It may need some heads banging together but we have to improve the funding for social care, pay the workforce properly and end the exodus from the sector that is currently going on.

“Social care provides a vital service to the fabric of our society and to our local economy. If elected, I will be making reform a high priority to bring about real improvement to the quality of life of people living here in our region.”

Keith had a successful career in the police force before becoming a businessman, growing million-pound businesses in several sectors. He is a patron of Dementia Forward and was awarded the MBE in 2018 for services to business and the community.

He recently met with Mike Padgham, chair of The Independent Care Group.

Mike added: “It was refreshing to meet with Keith and to hear that he

shares our passion and desire for social care reform. Hopefully, he will include that in his campaign message for the mayoral election.

“York and North Yorkshire, like the rest of the country, is suffering due to the crisis in social care and people in this region are going without the care they need.

“At the same time, care providers are closing or handing back delivery contracts and a chronic shortage of staff is hampering care delivery.

“Whilst we continue to campaign at a national level for government change to social care, it is also vital that we enlist the support of local politicians to do all they can to bring about change at a local and regional level.

“Measures to get more funding in to the local delivery of care and to provide better pay for the workforce so that we can recruit are all immediate and urgent priorities for this region.”

Mike has also held talks with the Conservative candidate for the mayoral post, Keane Duncan and hopes to meet with other candidates shortly.

The Mayoral election for York and North Yorkshire will be held on May 2.

process early on, we try to ensure our residents keep as much agency in their lives as possible.

“Put simply, we need to ditch the ‘one size fits all’ approach to care –particularly for people living with dementia, which varies massively from person to person.”

Guests took part in the gambling using ‘fun money’, with their combined entrance fee to the event raising £1,040 for the charity.

The proceeds will be used to fund services offering help, guidance and care for those living with dementia.

Mike Padgham

London’s latest luxury home care service has continued its expansion following the appointment of a new director of care operations, – with a cohort of new team members joining to further enhance its offering. Vivant, which officially launched in January, is centred on providing discreet and tailored care support focused on enabling its clients to continue living their life to the full. With word of its services spreading, the provider has seen increased care enquiries – and its plans for team expansion has been accelerated as a result. This has led to an additional eight experienced personal assistants recently joining the team, who, between them, have wide-ranging experiences and backgrounds to cater to Vivant’s diverse and unique client base. The latest arrivals include a former English teacher, science PHD, yoga teacher, musician and paramedic, as well as nurses.

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Thursday 9th May 2024

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Wednesday 10th July 2024

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Wednesday 30th October 2024

Home where staff are described as ‘angels’ is rated ‘outstanding’

BELVOIR Vale Care Home in Widmerpool, Nottinghamshire, has received an overall rating of ‘Outstanding’ following a recent Care Quality Commission inspection –placing it among just five per cent of adult social care services to receive the top possible inspection grade.

The 62-bed care home specialises in the provision of nursing, residential dementia and is part of the Maria Mallaband Care Group.

It was found to offer safe, “exceptionally responsive”, “exceptionally caring” and “exceptionally well-led” care, with the home receiving an ‘outstanding’ rating in two of the four inspected areas, leading to an overall rating of ‘Outstanding’.

The inspectors’ report notes people and their relatives said they were “exceptionally happy with the care provided” and “described staff as ‘Angels’.”

They highlighted the homes’ philosophy of “Family” finding it “truly embedded in the culture of the home,” adding: “People and staff told us they felt like family. Staff in every role displayed highly motivated and compassionate attitudes. Patience and kindness were shown at every opportunity.”

They also pointed out the “strong

embedded person-centred culture at the home” and that and that “activities were truly person centred.”

By way of example, the report relays that: “One person had a lifelong wish to visit their childhood home, staff approached the new owners of the house and made this happen for the person, this had a significant impact on their overall well-being.

“Another person had lost touch with life-long friends and had lost pets since becoming unwell. Staff

researched and were successful in finding the friends and pets they had lost. They were all reunited at Belvoir Vale.”

Jo Widdowson, outgoing care home manager at Belvoir Vale and MMCG regional director said: “I would like to send a huge congratulations and thank you to all the team at Belvoir Vale, and services supporting the home who have worked hard in our journey to achieving an Outstanding rating from CQC – I can’t put it into

words, what a way to begin 2024.”

Belvoir Vale is designed like a care village, with three care homes in grounds of over two acres.

Each building is purpose built and all bedrooms are attractively furnished with en-suite facilities including a choice of bright and attractive lounges, dining rooms, and hairdressers and an enclosed garden and patio area.

The unannounced inspection, which took place in October, saw inspectors speak to staff, those living in the home and their relatives, as assessing records and observing interactions, with inspectors noting: “We viewed many examples of the exceptional care people received.”

The report notes that the “home was exceptionally clean” and that “people were well supported as individuals, in line with their needs and preferences.”

It added that “staff encouraged, empowered and supported people to share their views” and “people were always treated with the highest level of respect and with their dignity preserved.”

The inspectors found “feedback from both people and staff was excellent” and concluded that: “People were undoubtedly at the heart of everything at Belvoir Vale.”

Team receives national recognition for end-of-life care

BLUEBIRD Care Merton has been awarded the Gold Standard Framework accreditation for palliative care.

They are one of the only providers in the country to hold this coveted award – with only three home care organisations receiving it last year.

Care manager Martine Gillfillian said: “Being able to be there for people and their families at the end of their life is a huge honour – and to

be recognised with this accreditation means a lot to all of us who provide end-of-life care to our customers.

“I’m grateful to our whole team for their support in helping us to achieve this milestone.”

To achieve the Gold Standard Framework, the team have demonstrated that they meet independent quality standards when it comes to supporting people in their last year of life.

The accreditation process involves a rigorous assessment of various aspects of care provision, including communication, coordination, and the overall quality of care delivered.

Bluebird Care Merton demonstrated exemplary practices in each of these areas, showcasing its commitment to ensuring that individuals receive the best possible care and support during their final stages of life.

Learn about navigating dysphagia

apetito has launched the fourth episode of its ‘Lunch With’ webinar series.

Join the team for a session on how to navigate swallowing difficulties (a condition more commonly known as dysphagia) in a care setting.

Now is the chance to learn from experts and expand your knowledge on the importance of following best practice when it comes to catering for residents who may be living with this condition.

It’s estimated that up to 75 per cent of care home residents live with dysphagia, so the theme is very relevant to the majority of care homes.

Clare Hunt from the apetito care homes team is joined by Professor Martin Green OBE, CEO of Care England and Dementia Champion for the Department of Health and Social Care, Amanda Scott, CEO of Forest Healthcare and apetito dietitian, Emily Stuart.

Together, they have an informative and helpful conversation about the prevalence of dysphagia in

care settings, the impact of the introduction of the IDDSI framework and how care homes can ensure they are providing residents with effective person-centred care.

Viewers can gain real insight into how the condition can impact residents’ nutritional intake and quality of life and get the opportunity

to learn more about what can be done to empower staff when caring for residents with dysphagia. Richard Woodward, general manager for care homes at apetito, said: “According to the Royal School of Speech and Language Therapists, 50 to 75 per cent of residents in nursing homes have dysphagia , so it’s an

extremely prevalent issue within the care sector.

“As one of the UK’s leading care home meals providers, we know how important it is to ensure residents with dysphagia are effectively and safely catered for.

“We’re delighted to have Martin and Amanda join Emily and Clare for a really vital discussion about the importance of effectively catering for dysphagia.

“Every resident should be able to dine with dignity and it is crucial that care homes are able ensure residents living with swallowing difficulties can enjoy mealtimes, whilst getting the nutrition they need.”

The episode also covers the importance of offering a variety of texture-modified meals for residents and viewers will be able to learn more about apetito’s world-leading texture modified range, which offers over 300 delicious, safe dishes with no compromise on flavour, visual appeal and most importantly safety.

Register for free to get access to the webinar at https://apetito.link/lunch-with