BSA Today Issue 18

BSA

Today Blue Stream Academy’s Healthcare & Lifestyle Magazine Winter 2023 | Issue 18

Look Who’s Talking:

Addiction in the Workplace – Dealing with Employment Addictions Leigh Williams, CEO CADAS

Smiling Through Challenges: Revolutionising Dental Staff Retention with Blue Stream Academy Eye on Healthcare:

How an African Church Choir Made a Difference to Care Home Life in Greater Manchester Mental Health:

Resolving to Resolve: Navigating the Pros and Cons of New Year’s Resolutions

DECEMBER 2023 | 18 30

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In This Issue FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

Smiling Through Challenges: Revolutionising Dental Staff Retention with Blue Stream Academy

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Simplify Your Dental CPD and CQC Reporting with Blue Stream Academy

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Navigating CQC Compliance: A Guide for Beginners

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Saraiya Lindsday

A Guide to Establishing a Successful Social Media 22 Channel for Health and Care Organisations Unwrapping Savings: Tips for Budget-friendly Festivities

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Resolving to Resolve: Navigating the Pros and Cons of New Year’s Resolutions

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Abi Bowler-Ropinski

Abi Bowler-Ropinski

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Eye on Healthcare: How an African Church Choir Made a Difference to Care Home Life in Greater Manchester

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A Spotlight On... Shared Decision Making

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Glorious Food!

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Blue Stream News

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Kayonda Hubert Ngamaba and Cheyann Heap Alex Burnell

Ellie Stanton

Look Who’s Talking Addiction in the Workplace – Dealing with Employment Addictions Leigh Williams

In this issues Leigh Williams, CEO at Cumbria Addictions Advice and Solutions, explores the impact of addiction in the workplace employees and employers. Leigh looks at the importance of employers’ corporate responsibility, highlighting the need for comprehensive policies and training and explaining the benefits of investing 17 in employee wellbeing.

Refer a W Friend!

elcome to the eighteenth issue of Blue Stream Academy’s healthcare and lifestyle magazine, BSA Today! As we usher in the festive season and prepare for a brand-new year, we are thrilled to present a diverse array of articles that encapsulate the spirit of innovation, well-being, and professional growth.

Relax this summer knowing that Blue Stream Academy's refer a friend your teamisisback, up toand date their scheme thison time it's bigger than ever! (CQC) Care Quality Commission

requirements by joining TeamBSA! Here at Blue Stream Academy, we believe that all good things We‘re offering all new should be shared, so why not share organisational subscribers your Blue Stream experience

3 months’ usage! with a free friend?

Simply registerwe'll before 30 you If they subscribe, send September 2023 takegift advantage £50 in cash, or ato£50 card of * subscription on us! of the extra your choice! It’s as simple as that.

In 'Smiling Through Challenges', Saraiya, previously a Dental Practice Manager looks at revolutionising dental staff retention, offering insights into creating a workplace that fosters both professional development and job satisfaction. In our spotlight feature, 'A Spotlight on… Shared Decision-Making', Alex, a member of our Content Development team, explores the significance of collaborative decision-making in healthcare, emphasising the patient’s role in their own care. And finally, as we embrace the festive spirit, our lifestyle section brings you 'Unwrapping Savings: A Guide to Cost-Effective Festive Period'. Indulge your culinary senses with 'Sweet Mince Meat Buns' and 'Festive Toad in the Hole', ensuring a delightful holiday season.

Wishing you a happy and healthy December!

Refer a Friend!

more information, You For read that right – 15please months’ contact today: usage forour theteam price of 12!

Abi x

Blue Stream Academy’s refer a friend 01773 822549 scheme is back, andour thisaccount time it’s Get in touch with bigger thantoday: ever! info@bluestreamacademy.com managers

Abi Bowler-Ropinski, BSA Today Editor

Our Team

info@bluestreamacademy.com Here at Blue Stream, we believe that all good things should be shared, so why not share your Blue Stream experience with a friend?

EDITORIAL

Abi Bowler-Ropinski | Editor

Alex Burnell | Content Development Stuart Walsh | Information Security

If they subscribe, we’ll send you £50 in cash, or a £50 gift card of your choice!* It’s as simple as that.

For more information, please contact us today on 01773 822549 or at info@bluestreamacademy.com

ART & DESIGN

Courteney Barlow-Ferguson | Graphic Designer COMMUNICATIONS

Abi Bowler-Ropinski | Marketing Manager THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS

Leigh Williams | Cheyann Heap | Kayonda Hubert Ngamaba

Abi Bowler-Ropinski | Alex Burnell | Ellie Stanton | Saraiya Lindsay Disclaimer:

*T&Cs apply.Please Pleasesee see website website for *T&Cs apply. fordetails. details. bluestreamacademy.com

The views and opinions expressed within this publication are those of the original content authors and do not necessarily reflect the official views and opinions of Blue Stream Academy Ltd. © 2023 Blue Stream Academy

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Eye on Healthcare:

How an African Church Choir Made a Difference to Care Home Life in Greater Manchester with

Kayonda Hubert Ngamaba | Research Fellow, Social Policy and Social Work Department, University of York Cheyann Heap | Research Associate, Community-Enhanced Social Prescribing, University of York

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Care homes are rarely a source of good news. The system is underfunded, understaffed and overextended, and homes are routinely found to be inadequate. Of the 2,934 homes the Care Quality Commission inspected in the year to December 2022, 1,224 were deemed inadequate or requiring improvement.

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ow expectations and negative stereotypes, particularly in the media, exacerbate the problem. But when positive relationships are placed at the centre of adult social care, care homes have the potential to be joyful, lively places.

Our research has looked at what happens when care homes facilitate community connections between their older residents and refugees.

We have found that singing, in particular, is a good tool for breaking down social barriers, reducing isolation and improving wellbeing. Group singing can benefit everyone.

How Singing Improves Wellbeing

From 2016 to 2019, we worked with four care homes in Bolton, Greater Manchester, and a local choir which visited the homes once a month.

The residents were older adults, predominantly white British. Some had diagnoses of dementia or mental health problems.

The choir was comprised of six to ten young people and adults from the Ephrata Church Community, a local black African church. They brought keyboards and guitars and set up shop in communal areas. The residents were free to come and go as they pleased.

The choir leader would introduce the songs and distribute lyrics, encouraging both residents and staff to join in. Afterwards they were asked about their experience of the session and whether they had any song requests for subsequent visits.

From the start, residents found the experience to be beneficial. One explained how little there was, usually, for them to do in the care home: “The staff are in rush, and we can’t have a proper conversation.”

Research has long shown that this is not uncommon.

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Joining in the singing project, by contrast, as one member of staff put it, “greatly improved [the residents’] moods and got them up dancing”. Another said how much it “brightens up the lives of people waiting for treatment”.

They especially like the fact that the choristers also learned a thing or two from Googling song requests they weren’t familiar with. One resident said that the song What a Friend We Have in Jesus is their “best song, the song they will sing during my funeral”.

How Singing Fosters Connectedness

Singing has been shown to boost confidence, broaden communication skills and foster connections with others. The physiological benefits it brings are clear too: as a workout, it can strengthen the immune system, improve posture and aid sleep.

It is also a natural antidepressant, lowering stress levels and improving mental alertness. Research shows that group singing, specifically, increases levels of oxytocin, which fosters a greater sense of connectedness and contentment.

Context, however, mediates the impact of oxytocin. Hence, before the singing, each chorister introduced themselves, the school they go to (for children), the work they do, their hobbies and preferred food. This started a conversation with the residents, about having gone to the same school or liking the same food.

what psychologists call behavioural synchronicity; and when they experience a collective sense of achievement. Rather than inviting residents to watch a performance, the fact that these sessions involved the choristers using songs chosen by the residents and actively encouraging them to clap and sing along encouraged connection.

Group bonding can happen quickly across large groups when people have a shared motivation or focus; when their activities are aligned in

The benefits of a greater sense of connection are clear. Loneliness is an enduring problem for older adults, especially in care homes.

Despite living in shared accommodation, over 60% of older adults in care homes are moderately or severely lonely.

Some studies show only 10% of care home residents’ time involves social interaction.

On a societal level, fostering connections can contribute to reducing social stigma, prejudice and isolation – issues faced by older adults and refugees alike.

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Spending time together (what psychologists term the 'mere exposure effect') can be enough to generate familiarity.

In addition, introductions at the start of singing emphasised the idea that everyone is unique – it reduced the perceived homogeneity of 'older people' or 'refugees'. Research suggests that environmental cues of social connectedness (sharing an activity, say, like singing together) also reduce bias.

On a more basic level, the signing group challenges stereotypes of refugees as hostile and taking resources, to being ordinary and active members of their communities who make a positive contribution.

Further, better relationships between caregivers and care home residents can reduce staff burnout because they make the work more meaningful and rewarding.

It acts as a buffer against stress, and some of the more difficult aspects of caregiving, such as working with aggression in people with dementia. This is known as 'enrichment', where caregiving gives meaning and pleasure to both parties, by giving something back to a previous generation, enjoying each other’s company, or learning something new.

The original article can be found at: https://theconversation.com/how-an-african-church-choir-made-adifference-to-care-home-life-in-greater-manchester-190556

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Social care experts speak about 'older-adult-centred care' wherein people are as autonomous as possible.

This involves treating them with dignity, providing personalised support for their unique needs, and creating a social environment in which people feel meaningfully included.

Our research suggests there is an important fifth component – reciprocity – which is all about finding ways for older people to actively contribute to wider community life. When, conversely, they receive care passively, it can create an objectified, distanced relationship that reduces the sense of reward for everyone involved.

Our group singing project delivered on all fronts.

Participants were treated with respect and involved in decision making. They forged connections with the choristers and each other, shared personal experiences and knowledge.

Greater community cohesion was achieved too, with connections forged between two groups so often isolated. As one younger member of the African choir said: “I really enjoy singing today, it helps me to be connected”

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A Spotlight On...

Shared Decision Making Alex Burnell | Content Developer at Blue Stream Academy

Shared decision making is a concept and practice designed to offer a greater balance of control between a health and care professional and an individual receiving treatment. It is a collaborative process in which a health and care professional supports an individual to reach a decision about their care or treatment.

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n the past, the health and social care industry was perceived as paternalistic, with members of the public glad to receive support and attention from an industry expert with considerable experience and qualifications. However, in modern day practice, individuals want – and expect – to play an integral role in their care and, more specifically, the decisionmaking process.

A person who is receiving treatment is an expert about themselves, providing their values and expectations, attitude to risk and declaring their personal circumstances. The health and care professional reinforces this information with clinical validation based on a wealth of knowledge and experience, while providing diagnosis and outcome probabilities.

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Why do we Need Shared Decision Making?

Shared decision making is a key component of person-centred and personalised health and social care – partly because it goes beyond informed consent.

Given the extent of the uncertainty about most medical treatments and the presence of side effects, multiple courses of action are often possible and there is no one ‘correct’ option.

Shared decision making gives a person the same control over their health and wellbeing that they would expect to have in all other aspects of life.

From a clinical perspective, studies have shown that sharing decisions has positive effects on care quality outcomes, with specific improvements in individuals’

knowledge and understanding, their level of comfort with decisions, and their adherence to treatment programmes and lifestyle changes.

When can it be Used?

Shared decision making should be used whenever possible during an individual’s care and treatment.

However, it is most relevant when there’s a close trade-off between the harms and benefits of a medical decision, especially when the decision could be influenced by a person’s values, preferences and circumstances. The process relies on clear, unhurried communication so it may be more difficult in emergency situations. When this is the case, the individual should be treated according to their best interests.

How can it Benefit Health and Care Organisations?

The politics behind healthcare finance can be incredibly stressful, exhausting and, occasionally, a source of conflict. Shared decision making provides health and care professionals and the organisations that they may be working for with beneficial data about services, treatments and support networks.

When working collaboratively with people who are receiving treatment, it’s easier for commissioners to identify which services are needed, which aren’t, and if there are any gaps in the health and care service that is provided. Similarly, developing individuals’ skills and knowledge of how to deal with their symptoms and side effects can help reduce the uninformed (and sometimes unnecessary) use of urgent care services.

How can it Benefit People with Mental Health Problems?

Shared decision making is a valuable option in the context of mental health problems. Because of the long-term nature of some mental health problems

and the associated rehabilitation, shared decision making can be of significant benefit when building an ongoing, co-operative relationship between a health and care professional and an individual.

Likewise, empowering the individual receiving care to become knowledgeable and active in managing in their own mental illnesses is crucial.

Shared decision making can be especially helpful when working with individuals with ‘varying mental capacity’. For instance, if a person’s capacity to make decisions is deteriorating and is expected to continue to deteriorate, using shared decision making sooner rather than later gives everyone involved a better opportunity to plan the person’s treatment for the future.

What Else Should I Consider when Implementing Shared Decision Making?

The human brain is an incredibly powerful machine, but it does have limitations. This is especially true when considering the impact of cognitive biases in shared decision making.

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Continued from page 09

Cognitive biases are mental shortcuts that reduce the psychological load on an individual and accelerate the decision-making process. Therefore, the way in which information is presented, explained and discussed has a significant influence on the choices the individual makes about their treatment.

Using shared decision making may reduce the risk of many biases because the individual plays an integral role in the decision-making process rather than relying on the health and care professional to make a decision on their behalf.

Another way of overcoming cognitive biases is simply to slow down. We all know that health and care professionals are constantly short of time, but you should make every effort to slow down the diagnostic and shared decision making process so that biases are alleviated as part of ordinary practice.

Overall, shared decision making is a concept that is relatively easy for you and the individual receiving treatment to understand. However, integrating it into your practices may be a more challenging prospect.

To get the most out of it, it’s crucial to practise excellent conversation and risk-communication skills, be competent in aiding decisions and ensure that the individual has understood everything you’ve discussed.

All stakeholders have an important role to play in supporting this process, but ultimately your role as a health and care professional is the key to shared decision making, because it’s only you who can choose whether or not to share decisions with the person receiving treatment

Want to Find Out More?

If you would like to enhance your awareness of shared decision making and learn about the qualities that can help to boost knowledge –either for yourself or members of your team – please phone us on 01773 822549 or visit our websites LiveChat feature at bluestreamacademy.com. You can also email info@bluestreamacademy.com.

Meet the Author

Hi, I’m Alex, a Content Developer at Blue Stream Academy. I’m part of the team that produces and updates our eLearning modules. My day-to-day tasks include working closely with our Creative Services department, Programming and BSA Today teams as well as conversing with external subject-matter experts to create content that educates and informs health and care professionals.

Alex Burnell 10

I enjoy spending my spare time following my favourite sports teams across the country: Yeovil Town Football Club and Somerset County Cricket Club.

Smiling Through Challenges: Revolutionising Dental Staff Retention with Blue Stream Academy Saraiya Lindsay | Dental Accounts Manager at Blue Stream Academy

Picture this: a bustling dental clinic filled with the sound of patients chatting and drills humming.

Behind this façade of normalcy, however, the UK’s dental industry is facing a critical challenge in holding on to its skilled workforce.

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n the wake of Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic and the inevitable strains on mental health, the dental sector is now grappling with a staggering staff turnover rate of 27.3%, which is significantly higher than the national average (16%).

At the heart of this issue are a lack of staff progression, financial constraints, and a general feeling of being undervalued among support staff.

In this article, we aim to unravel the complexities of this problem and explore the transformative power of education and empowerment, spotlighting Blue Stream Academy as the beacon of hope for the industry.

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The Challenge: Unravelling the Staffing Issue

Brexit uncertainties, pandemic disruptions, ongoing pressures in NHS dentistry specifically, and mental health challenges have led to an exodus from the dental industry. The departure of skilled professionals due to lack of progression and financial concerns is alarming. A dental business consultant, Lucy Simic, underscores the significance of progression in particular, noting that in her experience of building a team “it was really important that we communicated with the team how they could progress within the business.”

Organisations are currently struggling to retain staff, with nearly 80% expressing concerns about recruitment and retention prospects over the next 12 months When we consider that these problems are compounded by dentistry’s high turnover rate, it is vital to address two of the root causes: the lack of professional development and the financial burdens on support staff.

One of the core challenges faced by support staff is the financial burden of paying for continuing professional development (CPD) and General Dental Council (GDC) registrations. Shockingly, according to the British Association for Dental Nurses (BADN), more than 71% of support staff have to pay for their own CPD and GDC registrations. This situation highlights an urgent need for businesses to step in and provide opportunities for professional development and further education.

Medicruit, a leading dental recruitment agency, stresses that providing opportunities for professional development and further education should be key components of a strategy for retaining staff.

Although financial remuneration is also a key factor in the choice to leave the industry, pay rises are not the only option for employers who want to improve staff retention – and they are only sustainable in the short term. There is a clear need for a solution that fosters personal and professional fulfilment, motivation, and commitment.

The Rise of eLearning

Enterprises seeking innovative solutions have turned to eLearning platforms such as the one provided by Blue Stream Academy. By making more eLearning opportunities available, businesses can reduce the financial burden on their staff, boost morale and improve their staff retention rates.

As the market leader for mandatory healthcare training delivered through eLearning, we offer a range of courses designed to support the demands of a rapidly evolving digital-first world. Offering eLearning not only meets the needs of the modern workforce but also ensures compliance with all GDC requirements.

Benefits of eLearning with Blue Stream Academy Accessible and Flexible Staff can access our eLearning modules at any time, anywhere. This flexibility means they can learn at their own pace, fitting training seamlessly into their busy schedules.

Tailored Customised courses cater to specific roles, addressing skill and knowledge gaps and enhancing proficiency. Personalised learning experiences empower staff, as well as boosting their confidence and performance.

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Cost-efficient By providing eLearning opportunities, you can relieve your staff of the financial burden associated with CPD and GDC registration. By offering highquality education at an affordable price, eLearning ensures compliance without putting a strain on your resources.

Better Morale Our engaging, interactive courses boost morale among staff. Investing in eLearning for your employees makes them feel valued and supported, meaning they are more likely to stay. In turn, this creates a harmonious work environment, which also improves retention rates.

GDC and CQC Compliance Our courses are meticulously crafted to meet GDC requirements so your staff continue to be compliant with industry standards. You can rest assured that your workforce is well-equipped and up to date with the latest regulations.

What Next?

The path to overcoming the dental industry’s retention crisis lies in education, empowerment, and innovation.

The eLearning we offer is truly comprehensive – it goes beyond the basic mandatory training and fosters trainees’ personal and professional growth.

By investing in your employees’ education and wellbeing, you can create a resilient dental workforce that not only withstands challenges but even thrives in the face of adversity.

So, let’s embark on this exciting journey together – embracing education, empowering staff, and revolutionising the future of dentistry. After all, a welltrained, motivated workforce is the cornerstone of a vibrant, successful dental practice

Meet the Author

My name is Saraiya, and I’m the Dental Accounts Manager here at Blue Stream Academy. Prior to starting at Blue Stream, I have worked as a Practice Manager within both the Dental and GP sectors over the last 10 years.

I’m proud to have made the transition from working in a practice to now supporting practices who want to invest in their team by making sure they receive top training.

Saraiya Lindsay bluestreamacademy.com

In my spare time, you’ll often find me trying out new places to eat.

It’s safe to say that I’m a foodie!

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SIMPLIFY YOUR DENTAL CPD AND CQC REPORTING with blue stream academy Available from as little as £100 per organisation, per year!**

Navigating through the many dental eLearning courses available for your team members’ continuing professional development (CPD) can be a complicated and timeconsuming task. At Blue Stream Academy, we believe this process should be straightforward.

With this in mind, we’ve designed our new Dental eLearning and Management platform to simplify your ongoing CPD requirements. Our new platform offers you a concise package of topics recommended by the General Dental Council (GDC) that are suitable for every dental professional.

Why Choose Blue Stream Academy?

We’re different! Unlike other providers, every annual subscription includes unlimited access to our complete dental eLearning library. This comprehensive library covers all your CPD requirements – from oral cancer to legal and ethical issues.

With Blue Stream Academy, it’s ’one team, one platform’ – suitable for everyone from dental therapists to technicians.

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Connect with the Blue Voice Forum Join our Blue Voice user forum – a vibrant hub where professionals from diverse backgrounds can collaborate, share insights, seek advice and offer guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a newcomer, this forum gives you a platform to connect, learn and grow.

Exceptional Customer Support At Blue Stream Academy, we pride ourselves on delivering not only exceptional training solutions but also unparalleled customer support. Our in-house customer support team is dedicated to providing real-time assistance, answering your queries promptly and effectively.

Enhanced CPD Made Simple We know that Care Quality Commission (CQC) compliance can be confusing. That’s why we’ve developed a straightforward CPD schedule of more than 20 concise CPD eLearning modules.

With this simple approach, you’ll no longer need to use complicated systems to keep track of your compliance.

GDC-recommended eLearning Topics Our Dental platform covers all the essential topics: Safeguarding Adults and Children, Fire Safety, Consent, Information Governance, the Mental Capacity Act, Equality and Diversity, Complaints, Radiography, Oral Cancer, Legal and Ethical Issues, Medical Emergencies, Disinfection and Decontamination, Infection Control, Basic Life Support, and AEDs. Simplified CQC Reporting and Compliance Management Our Management of Information System (MIS) simplifies CQC reporting by providing 18+ automated training and compliance reports for you to choose from.

You can use the MIS to track external training, with settings that you can customise. It also offers integrated policy management and optional site and department setups with multiple system access levels.

The Complete Solution Imagine being able to access all your organisation’s training, compliance, and HR information on a single platform. With Blue Stream Academy’s Dental eLearning and Management platform, this becomes a reality.

Integrated HR Data Management Our integrated HR system streamlines staff data on a centralised ISO 27001 certified platform, saving you money and making day-to-day admin easier. For just £100* per organisation, per year, you can benefit from secure storage of personnel data, an interactive rota and shift builder, real-time leave and absence management, and performance management.

By including our HR system in your Dental platform subscription, you’ll benefit by: streamlining your contracts saving time and removing data duplication better data security linking training and performance for straightforward appraisals.

get in touch!

For more information or to book a demo, please contact Saraiya, our Dental Accounts Manager, by emailing dental@bluestreamacademy.com or calling 01773 822549. *Price does not include VAT.

**Based on an organisation with 50 members of staff. bluestreamacademy.com

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Blue Recruit

Taking the stress out of recruitment.

Struggling to find the time to manage the admin of your recruitment process? Tired of sifting through countless job applications?

Manage and share new job vacancies directly from your Blue Stream Academy dashboard with Blue Recruit.

Connect with top healthcare professionals who are looking for their next career opportunity on a secure ISO 27001 certified platform and streamline your recruitment processes in no time.

Our built-in recruitment platform allows managers to: Post and customise job vacancies Instantly manage, edit, delete and view vacancies Filter role specifications

For more information on Blue Recruit or the Blue StreamNet platform, contact a member of the team at info@bluestreamacademy.com or on 01773 822549.

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Look Who’s Talking:

Addiction in the Workplace – Dealing with Employment Addictions with CADAS at Work Leigh Williams | CEO at CADAS

Most people have some form of dependency – what’s yours? Do you need a strong coffee to kickstart the day, or is a glass of wine or beer essential after a stressful day? Perhaps it’s chocolate biscuits, vaping or smoking, or checking social media on your phone multiple times a day?

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ven though most of us have some form of habitual dependency, if the doctor told us to stop drinking coffee to lower our blood pressure or if we misplaced our mobile phone for a week, we might feel a bit grumpy but we’d be okay.

When dependency becomes an addiction, there are serious health implications – often both mental and physical. The direct impact for employers includes absenteeism, workplace accidents, exposure to legal risk and poor productivity.

According to The Addiction Helper, 70% of substance users are in fulltime employment.

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Government statistics state that alcohol misuse among employees costs up to £7.3 billion in lost productivity through increased absenteeism, unemployment and premature death.

We are all aware that employers have a corporate responsibility to look after the health and wellbeing of their workforce, but how many take this seriously? The majority of employers and managers turn a blind eye, leading to thousands of people going to work every day under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Many of these people are driving, working at height or

in safety-critical roles, putting themselves, their colleagues and the wider public in danger.

What’s more, addictions in the UK are currently rising. Two reasons for this are an increase in poor mental health since the COVID-19 pandemic, and longer NHS waiting lists.

Longer waiting lists are leading to people living with pain for extended periods and therefore finding ways to soothe themselves; for example, by drinking, overusing prescription medication and using drugs.

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CADAS At Work can help employers with their corporate responsibilities, making a significant difference to the impact that addiction can have in the workplace. Our highly trained staff have the knowledge and expertise to deliver a variety of support programmes, each of which is tailored and adapted to meet the unique needs of the individual businesses we work with. Here are some of the ways we can help.

Policy Review

Most businesses (77%) have a policy on drugs and alcohol, yet the policy may rarely be reviewed. We work with managers and HR personnel to check if the drugs and alcohol policy is fit for purpose. As part of this, we ask: • Is the policy equitable? For example, if managers are treated differently from other employees in the context of random drug testing, this could lead to challenges unless the justifications are specified in the policy.

• What records are kept of which members of staff are taking prescribed medication, so this can be checked prior to drug testing?

• Does the policy reflect up-to-date testing procedures, in light of developments in both synthetic drugs and testing techniques?

The aim of our policy review is for managers and HR teams to feel confident about implementing all aspects of their drug and alcohol policy.

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Training for Managers

Of the 77% of businesses that have a drug and alcohol policy, only 12% provide managers and HR personnel with any training on drugs and alcohol, and only 3% provide regular refresher training. The comprehensive drug and alcohol awareness training we provide gives managers the capacity and confidence to spot the signs of addictive behaviours and then manage and support their employees.

When a person develops an addiction, it’s usually the people closest to them who first notice the problem. Many of us spend more of our week with our colleagues than with our family, meaning that it is managers and colleagues who often experience the impact of a colleague’s addiction. But do they have the knowledge to deal with it?

Through our Making Every Conversation Count (MECC) training, we teach managers and supervisors how to approach difficult conversations. From our experience, if managers and supervisors have the right skills and knowledge, employees will have confidence in the company’s policies and procedures – for themselves and others.

Training for Employees

Our employee drug and alcohol awareness training is also popular. This training, which we tailor to the organisation’s policies, raises personal understanding about our own behaviours and those of others.

However, research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) found that 69% of employees who disclosed an addiction and were supported with a referral to a specialist continued working in the same organisation. This statistic shows that in the long term, investing in employees can be more cost-effective than dismissing them.

For businesses whose assistance programme does not include drug and alcohol support, we offer one-to-one recovery coaching for up to twelve 1-hour sessions, either face to face or online. All employees who are offered addiction support through CADAS At Work are fast-tracked to minimise the impact on you as their employer. The cost can be paid for by the employee or their employer.

Review of Disclosure Procedures

Only 27% of employers provide information about how to disclose a drug or alcohol problem.

We help businesses consider these questions: • Do employees know who they can go to if they need to disclose their addiction?

To sum up, when organisations are proactive about supporting employee wellbeing, their workforce is much more likely to thrive and be more productive.

In the words of the CIPD, “Investing in employee wellbeing can lead to increased resilience, reduced sickness absence and higher performance and productivity. Put simply – it makes good business sense… morally, legally and financially!”

• Do employees know the consequences of disclosure and how it will affect them financially? Although 20% of employers offer staff paid time off to attend appointments and get support, nearly 50% of businesses don’t even provide unpaid time off.

• Do managers and staff know what records to keep and what information they should keep confidential?

Coaching

Very few employment assistance programmes offered by businesses include specialist support for drugs and alcohol.

Meet the Author

Leigh Williams is CEO of a mental health charity that specialises in addictive behaviours – CADAS, Cumbria Addictions: Advice and Solutions.

Leigh Williams

bluestreamacademy.com

Leigh has been a charity sector manager for over 20 years specialising in youth, community and health. CADAS supports people in Cumbria affected by their own or someone else’s problematic addictions via a range of services, and the charity is active nationally with its CADAS At Work service (aimed at employers), its training support and its virtual support service for anyone struggling with an addictive behaviour who wants to make a long-term change (Change launches in Jan 2024).

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Navigating CQC Compliance: A Guide for Beginners New to the world of Care Quality Commission (CQC) compliance? Get to know the essentials by reading this concise beginners’ guide!

Why is CQC Compliance so Important?

CQC compliance is critically important for health and care services in the UK for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, compliance with CQC standards ensures that patients and residents receive safe, effective and highquality care. As part of this, the CQC assesses various aspects of healthcare delivery, from clinical practices to administrative procedures, to check that an organisation is treating its patients or residents with dignity and respect.

CQC compliance is also essential for building, maintaining and enhancing a health or care organisation’s reputation. A positive CQC rating serves as a mark of excellence, instilling confidence in patients, residents and the community. In contrast, non-compliance can lead to reputational damage and erode trust.

Adhering to CQC standards is also so important because it's a legal requirement to do so. In other words, the law says that health and care services must meet the regulatory standards set by the CQC. If they don’t, it can result in penalties, sanctions, or even having to close the organisation.

Beyond the legal obligations, CQC compliance fosters continuous improvement. The inspection process prompts the organisation to reflect on its ways of working, identify areas for enhancement and make changes that lead to better outcomes for patients.

It’s a commitment to providing the best possible care, maintaining trust, and continuously striving for excellence in the delivery of healthcare services in the UK. Remember, CQC inspections are an opportunity to showcase the quality of the care your service provides. By preparing well for an inspection, you can make sure you comply with the standards while contributing to the ongoing improvement of your healthcare services.

How to Prepare for a CQC Inspection

It’s crucial that your health or care service prepares for a CQC inspection in order to demonstrate compliance and show that your organisation is delivering high-quality healthcare. Here are some key steps to follow to prepare effectively:

1

Understand CQC Standards Familiarise yourself with the CQC’s five key domains and the related standards. The key domains focus on safety, effectiveness, care, responsiveness, and leadership. Understanding these will guide your preparation.

2

Do a Self-Assessment Evaluate your organisation against CQC standards by doing a self-assessment. Identify areas of strength and weakness and prioritise improvements. This proactive approach will help you address any issues before the inspection.

3

Look at Staff Training and Awareness Make sure that all staff members are aware of CQC standards and their role in compliance.

Provide relevant training resources to refresh their understanding of regulations, protocols, and best practices.

4

Check Document Compliance Maintain clear and detailed records of your organisation’s policies, procedures and protocols.

Make sure all the relevant documents and records are up to date, easy to access and reflect current best practices. Examples include patient or resident records, staff training logs, and policies related to infection control and safeguarding.

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Get Patient Feedback Gather and analyse feedback from patients/ residents to understand their experiences of your service. Use this information to identify areas for improvement and demonstrate your commitment to patient-centred care.

Be Prepared for an Emergency Have robust emergency plans in place to cover everything from medical emergencies to unforeseen events. Make sure that all staff are aware of these plans and are regularly trained in emergency procedures. bluestreamacademy.com

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Use Infection Control Measures Make sure you can show you have effective measures in place for preventing and controlling infection. This should include procedures for maintaining cleanliness, implementing hand hygiene protocols, and managing waste disposal in accordance with guidelines.

Audit Your Medication Management Make sure your medication management processes are safe and effective. Managing medicines correctly involves proper storage, administration and record-keeping. Regularly audit your processes to identify any issues and put these right.

Look at Leadership and Governance You should have strong leadership and governance structures in place. This includes establishing clear lines of responsibility, holding regular team meetings, and demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.

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Carry out Mock Inspections Hold some mock inspections to simulate the CQC process. This will help to identify any gaps in your preparation and allow staff to become familiar with the inspection format.

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Engage with Staff Involve your staff in the preparation process.

Encourage open communication, address any concerns, and foster a collaborative approach to meeting CQC standards.

Did you know that Blue Stream Academy have released a new CQC Healthcheck System?* Contact us today to see how we can help with your CQC preparation! *

availble for an additional fee on the GP platform.

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Navigating the Digital Landscape:

A Guide to Establishing a Successful Social Media Channel for Health and Care Organisations Abi Bowler-Ropinski | Marketing Manager at Blue Stream Academy

In an era dominated by digital communication, harnessing the power of social media has become essential for health and care organisations in the UK.

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hether you're a GP practice, a health and social care provider, a private clinic or a charity, a well-established social media presence can significantly increase your reach, engagement, and overall effectiveness in serving the community. In this article we provide a comprehensive guide to setting up a successful social media channel for your organisation.

1. Define Your Goals and Target Audience

Before diving into the world of social media, it’s crucial to define your goals clearly and identify your target audience.

Do you want to raise awareness about a specific health issue, share updates on medical advances, or get fedback from patients and residents? Understanding your objectives will shape your content and determine which platforms are most suitable for your organisation.

Identifying your target audience is equally important.

This will help you identify the best platforms for reaching your audience and tailor your content to resonate with them, enhancing the effectiveness of your social media efforts.

2. Choose the Right Platforms

The UK has a diverse social media landscape, with platforms catering for different demographics and content types. Understanding the unique features and user demographics of each platform will help you make informed decisions about where to establish your organisation’s presence.

For health and care organisations, X (formerly known as Twitter) and LinkedIn are highly effective. X allows for real-time updates and speedy dissemination of information, while LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking and sharing industry-specific content.

Instagram and Facebook, with their visual appeal, are excellent choices for engaging a broader audience through compelling graphics and stories.

3. Develop a Content Strategy

Consistency is key when it comes to social media success. Develop a content strategy that aligns with your organisation’s goals and resonates with your target audience.

Then create a content calendar to outline the frequency of posts, the type of content (for example, articles, infographics or videos), and the relevant hashtags.

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Educational content, success stories and behindthe-scenes glimpses into your organisation can help build trust and credibility.

Regular updates on medical advances, health tips, and community events also contribute to a well-rounded content strategy.

4. Engage with Your Audience

Social media is a two-way street, so you’ll need to engage with your audience by responding to comments, messages and mentions. This not only fosters a sense of community but also demonstrates that your organisation values and acknowledges its audience.

Platforms offer metrics on engagement rates, reach and follower growth, which you can use to assess what works and refine your approach accordingly.

Regularly analyse these metrics to understand which types of content resonate the most with your audience, and adjust your strategy based on the data. Social media is dynamic, and adapting to changing trends is crucial for long-term success.

Consider hosting live Q&A sessions, polls or discussions on relevant health topics. Encourage user-generated content, such as patient testimonials or health-related challenges, to further amplify your engagement and reach.

5. Keep to Ethical Guidelines and Respect Patient Privacy

In the realm of healthcare, patient privacy and ethical considerations are paramount. Make sure that your social media practices adhere to data protection laws and ethical guidelines.

Never share sensitive patient information, and maintain a balance between educational content and promotional material.

When providing healthcare information, include disclaimers and direct users to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.

By being transparent and responsible in your social media practices, you will build trust with your audience and safeguard your organisation’s reputation.

6. Use Analytics to Measure Success

Social media analytics can give you valuable insights into how your content and strategy are performing.

Establishing a successful social media channel for your health or care organisation requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. By defining your goals, choosing the right platforms, developing a content strategy, engaging with your audience, adhering to ethical guidelines, and utilising analytics, you can navigate the digital landscape with confidence. In doing so, you’ll not only expand your organisation’s reach but also build a healthier and more informed community

Meet the Author

Abi has managed Blue Stream Academy’s (BSA) Marketing department for six years, ensuring that health and care professionals (HCPs) throughout the UK are aware of BSA’s training, resources, and workforce planning solutions.

From event attendance to digital communications, Abi is passionate about promoting accessible educational resources and compliance support for busy HCPs, anywhere, anytime.

Abi Bowler-Ropinski bluestreamacademy.com

In Abi's spare time, she enjoys exploring the outdoors with her dachshund and husband, doing target archery at her local club, and eating out with family and friends.

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Revolutionise Your CQC Compliance Introducing our Health Check System for GP Practices

The news is out – our new CQC Health Check System is landing soon on the GP eLearning and Management platform!

Fully integrated with the GP eLearning and Management platform, this new system makes preparing for a CQC inspection simpler by providing digestible daily tasks on your existing Blue Stream Academy dashboard, supporting your CQC compliance.

What Does the CQC Health Check System Cover?

The CQC Health Check System is a centralised portal where you can record and monitor information about your: • clinical governance • health and safety • medicines safety • people • practice administration procedures • practice governance.

How Does the CQC Health Check System Work?

Set up your premises, rooms and assets, and then let the CQC Health Check System manage your schedule! By providing an automated list of regular tasks tailored to your practice, the system frees you up to invest your valuable time in working towards CQC compliance rather than grappling with administration. The system is integrated seamlessly into your existing Blue Stream Academy dashboard, so you can upload evidence effortlessly and confirm a task is complete at the touch of a button.

Is it Suitable for my Organisation?

Developed with the help of practice managers, the CQC Health Check System is tailored specifically for GP practices. Keep an eye out for updates across our other platforms, though – the system will soon be available to other organisations too!

What Makes the CQC Health Check System Different?

Unlike other compliance systems, our CQC Health Check System requires minimal setup for maximum results. There are no lengthy initial processes – just straightforward steps to support your CQC compliance.

Because the system is fully integrated within the GP eLearning and Management platform, it streamlines the preparation process by providing your CQC Health Check tools as part of your existing Blue Stream Academy dashboard.

How Much Does it Cost?

Blue Stream Academy’s CQC Health Check System is available for just £299+ VAT per organisation, per year.

Simply add the package to your existing subscription and log in as normal to access your CQC preparation tools.

Want to Find out More?

Contact Natalie, our Business Accounts Manager, on gp@bluestreamacademy.com for more information and to get access to the CQC Health Check System as soon as it arrives.

To subscribe to our mailing list and be the first to get updates on when the system will be available on other platforms, click here.

Unwrapping Savings: Tips for Budget-Friendly Festivities Abi Bowler-Ropinski | Marketing Manager at Blue Stream Academy

The joys of gift-giving and spending time with family during the festive period often come with the stress of financial strain. But, with some thoughtful planning and a bit of creativity, it’s possible to enjoy the festive season without breaking the bank. We’ve put together some ideas for celebrating in a meaningful way that makes the most of your budget.

Set a Realistic Budget

First, decide on a realistic budget. Take a close look at your finances and work out how much you can comfortably spend on the celebrations without compromising your financial stability. Include spending on gifts, decorations, food and travel. Having a clear budget will help you avoid overspending and creating unnecessary financial strain.

Take Advantage of Early Sales and Discounts One of the best ways to make your money go further is to make the most of early sales and discounts. Keep an eye out for seasonal deals and promotions.

Start shopping early so you can spread out the costs and avoid last-minute impulse buys.

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bluestreamacademy.com

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Continued from page 25

Create a Gift-giving Strategy

Gift-giving is important for many at this time of year, but it doesn’t have to be a financial burden. Here are some tips for keeping your gift-giving budget in check:

• Homemade Gifts: Embrace your creative side and consider making gifts. Whether it’s delicious baked goods, personalised crafts or handmade ornaments, these gifts often carry more sentimental value than store-bought items and are often cheaper too.

• Secret Santa: Instead of buying gifts for everyone in your extended family or friend group, suggest a Secret Santa gift exchange. This way, each person only needs to buy one thoughtful gift in each group, so everyone spends less overall.

• Set Gift Limits: Set a spending limit with each person on your gift list. This makes sure that everyone receives a present and nobody feels obliged to overspend.

Shop Mindfully

Embrace Handmade Decorations

When it comes to shopping, mindfulness is key. To avoid impulse buying, make a detailed shopping list and stick to it. Compare prices in different shops and consider buying generic or store-brand items when possible. To make your budget go further, take advantage of cashback and rewards schemes.

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Decking the halls doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Get creative and make your own decorations.

Get the family together for a DIY decorating session to make your own unique ornaments, wreaths and centrepieces.

This a fun and festive activity that can add a personal touch to your holiday decor without draining your wallet.

Go for Budget-friendly Traditions

If your festive traditions tend to be expensive, think about trying new ones that are just as fun but cost less. Instead of more expensive outings or events, you could try: • Movie Nights: A cosy movie night at home with your favourite holiday films and homemade snacks.

• Potluck Dinners: If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, make it a potluck. This way, everyone contributes a dish, reducing the overall cost and workload.

• Volunteer Together: Embrace the spirit of giving by volunteering as a family or group of friends. Many organisations need extra help during the holiday season, and it can be a fulfilling and cost-free way to spend time together.

Plan and Cook Budget-friendly Meals

Feasting is a central part of the festive period, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Plan your holiday meals in advance, taking advantage of sales and discounts on key ingredients. Consider incorporating some budgetfriendly recipes into your festive menu, and involve family members in the cooking to make it a shared experience. If you’re hosting family, consider asking them to bring a dish to make it a shared experience.

Got any leftovers? Get creative and make them into another dish, or top them up with a little fresh food the the next day for a cost-effective twist on a festive feast.

For many, December is a time for joy, love and togetherness, and these meaningful things don’t have to have a high price attached. To help keep your costs under control, try setting a realistic budget, getting creative with gift-giving and decorations, taking advantage of discounts, embracing inexpensive traditions, and planning meals carefully. Remember, the true festive spirit lies in the connections and memories you create, not the amount you spend

Need Support?

If you’re finding it difficult to cope during the festive period, there are several UK organisations that you can contact for support.

Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and these resources are there to support you through difficult times.

Organisations like Mind, Samaritans, and Citizens Advice can provide support for mental healths, emotional wellbeing and general guidance on a range of subjects. The NHS also provides valuable information and access to local mental health services.

Don’t hesitate to seek assistance if you are in difficulty.

If you’re facing financial difficulties, the Money Advice Service and Turn2us can give advice on managing your money and accessing financial support. bluestreamacademy.com

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Resolving to Resolve: Navigating the Pros and Cons of New Year’s Resolutions Abi Bowler-Ropinski | Marketing Manager at Blue Stream Academy

As the calendar turns its final page and the countdown to 2024 begins, people around the world are contemplating the age-old tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions.

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hether it’s following a healthier lifestyle, learning a new skill, or striving for personal growth, the ritual of setting resolutions is deeply ingrained in our culture. As with many traditions, there are staunch advocates and firm sceptics, each with their own set of arguments. Let’s explore the pros and cons of setting New Year’s resolutions and discover how to craft goals that aren't just aspirational but are realistic too.

• Goal-setting and Personal Growth

The Pros

• A Sense of Accomplishment

• Fresh Start Mentality

The start of a new year represents a clean slate, an opportunity to write off the challenges and setbacks of the previous year. The psychological power of a fresh start can be the motivation we need to push ourselves to achieve new things.

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Resolutions encourage us to identify areas in our lives that we want to improve.

Setting these goals encourages self-refelction and personal growth, which can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Whether our goals are related to career advancement, better relationships or enhanced wellbeing, well-crafted resolutions can serve as a roadmap for positive change.

Keeping to a New Year’s resolution can give us a powerful sense of accomplishment. The journey of setting, pursuing, and ultimately reaching a goal builds character and resilience, while enhancing self-esteem and confidence.

The Cons

• Unrealistic Expectations

One of the biggest criticisms of New Year’s resolutions is that we tend to set lofty and often unattainable goals. The pressure to make drastic changes overnight can lead to frustration and disappointment when we don’t meet our own expectations, and we may then abandon our reolutions altogether.

• Short-lived Enthusiasm

The initial burst of enthusiasm that accompanies the start of a new year can quickly wane as the routine of daily life sets in. Many resolutions falter because we lack sustained motivation and we struggle to maintain the same level of commitment as the year unfolds.

• All-or-nothing Mentality

The binary nature of resolutions – either success or failure – can create an unhealthy all-or-nothing mentality. Life is full of ups and downs, and setbacks are inevitable. The black-and-white perspective of resolutions can make us feel discouraged when we encounter obstacles, hindering our progress instead of promoting our resilience.

Crafting Resolutions for Success 1. Be Specific and Realistic

Rather than setting vague, sweeping goals, break them down into specific, achievable steps. Instead of saying, “I want to get in shape,” specify how you’ll do it, such as, “I will exercise for 30 minutes, three times a week.” This makes your resolution more tangible and manageable.

4. Build a Support System

Share your resolutions with friends or family who will give you encouragement and support. Having a network of people cheering you on can make the journey more enjoyable and provide the accountability you need to stay on track.

5. Learn from Setbacks

Recognise that setbacks are a natural part of any journey. Rather than viewing setbacks as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Adjust your approach, reevaluate your resolution if necessary, and move forwards with your newfound knowledge and resilience.

The tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions has benefits and drawbacks: while the psychological boost of a fresh start can be a powerful motivator, unrealistic expectations and short-lived enthusiasm can lead to disappointment.

If you adopt a mindful and strategic approach to goal-setting, you can improve your chances of success and transform your resolutions into lasting, positive changes in your life. Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s also about the journey and the growth that comes with it

2. Set Measurable Milestones

Establish some measurable benchmarks so you can track your progress. If your goal is to save money, specify a target amount to save each month. Measurable milestones give you a sense of achievement, and you can adjust them if needed.

3. Focus on the Process, not just the Outcome

Shift your mindset from focusing on the end result to embracing the journey. Celebrate small victories along the way, acknowledging the effort and commitment you’ve put into your resolution. This approach to goal-setting is more sustainable, making it easier to keep to your resolutions. bluestreamacademy.com

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Sweet MinceMeat Buns Makes 10

Time 2 Hours

METHOD 1. Combine the flour, salt and sugar in a large mixing mixing bowl.

2. In a pan, gently warm the milk and butter until the butter has melted. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Make a well in the flour mix, and add in the yeast.

Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the flour. After mixing in the milk, add the egg and continue mixing until it forms a rough dough.

4. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for 5 minutes or until smooth.

5. Grease a large bowl and add in the dough. Cover with cling film and leave to rise for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.

These rolls are a wonderful mash up of mince pies and cinnamon rolls – a delicious festive sweet treat.

Ingredients

Dough • 500g plain flour • Pinch of salt • 50g caster sugar • 300ml milk • 40g unsalted butter (cut into cubes) • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 7g sachet of yeast • Vegetable oil, for greasing (or a plain flavourless oil) • 1 egg

Nutritional Values per Serving

Filling • ½ jar of mincemeat Glaze and Icing • 200g caster sugar • 200ml water, plus 1 tsp for the icing • 100g icing sugar

6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the mincemeat over the dough and roll the dough up (roll from the short end of the rectangle).

7. Slice the roll of dough into 10 and place the sliced roll in a tin lined with greaseproof paper. Leave to rise for 30 minutes.

8. While you’re waiting for the dough to rise, preheat the oven to 190C/170C Fan/Gas 5.

9. Cover the buns in the tray with tin foil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove the foil for the last 5–10 minutes.

10. While the buns are cooling, make the glaze. To do so, mix the caster sugar and water in a pan and heat for 10–15 minutes or until the mixture starts to look a little thicker and stickier (it should still be clear and fairly runny).

11. Brush the buns with the glaze and leave them in their tin to cool completely.

12. To make the icing, mix a teaspoon of water into the icing sugar and stir until it has a pouring consistency.

13. Using an icing bag or a spoon, drizzle the icing over the cooled buns. Share and enjoy!

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Festive Toad-in-the-Hole Serves 8

Time 1 hour 30 mins

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7.

2. Peel the carrots and chop them into large slices or chunks. Add them to a pan of water and boil until they are just starting to go soft.

3. Wrap the sausages in the bacon. Add the oil to an oven tray, place the wrapped sausages on the tray and bake in the oven for 15 minutes or until the meat starts to brown.

4. While the sausages are in the oven, mix the flour, salt and pepper in a bowl. Add the eggs and milk, and whisk the mixture into a batter.

Ingredients

• 2 carrots • 6–8 sausages (or vegetarian alternatives) • 6–8 rashers of streaky bacon, smoked or unsmoked (or vegetarian alternatives) • 140g plain flour • ½ tsp salt • 2 eggs Nutritional Values per Serving

• 175ml milk • Pinch of pepper • 4–5 brussels sprouts (cut in half) • Ready-made stuffing • 2 tbsp cranberry sauce • 100g brie (cut into small pieces) • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

5. Remove the sausages from the oven. Add the carrots and brussels sprouts to the tray, and pour the batter over the top. (You might need to reassemble the sausages, carrots and sprouts after pouring in the batter to ensure they are evenly distributed.)

6. Return the tray to the oven and bake for a further 25–30 minutes, or until the batter has risen and looks golden.

7. Remove the toad-in-the-hole from the oven. Crumble the stuffing over the top before adding the pieces of brie and a few dollops of cranberry sauce.

8. Cut up and serve with mashed or roasted potatoes.

Meet the Author

1 1

Ellie Stanton bluestreamacademy.com

Ellie is a System Trainer and has been part of the Customer Support team since 2019. As a System Trainer, Ellie performs daily training sessions covering all our Blue Stream Academy systems and features for System Administrators. She is also a keen cook and baker, preparing many treats for friends, family and, most importantly, the office. Ellie specialises in baking cakes and biscuits for her friends and family, including birthday cakes, wedding cakes and baby shower biscuits. It’s not just Ellie’s friends, family and colleagues who benefit from her baking skills. She will also regularly bake homemade dog treats for her lovely puppy.

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Blue Stream News

Catch up with all things going on with #TeamBSA at Blue Stream HQ! Does everyone agree that 2023 has flown by?

As we near the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to update you on what’s been going on here at BSA HQ! Over the last few months, #TeamBSA has attended an array of events across the UK, exhibiting at the Care Show, Birmingham, the Ambulance Leadership Forum in Wales, Management in Practice, London, and the Hospice UK National Conference – just to name a few.

We’ve also been busy here at the head office, where our Software Development Team have been working hard on the new CQC Health Check System, which will soon be available on our GP eLearning and Management platform.

Our Content Development Team have also released a new Online Access to Prospective (Future) Records module, closely followed by a range of new GDC-recommended eLearning topics now available on our updated Dental eLearning and Management platform. The new modules include Radiography, Oral Cancer, and Medical Emergencies.

With all this activity, we needed some new team members! We’re delighted to welcome Saraiya, our new Dental Account Manager, and Jack, our new Health and Social Care Accounts Manager.

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Saraiya Lin

Jack Burton

We’re looking forward to seeing what 2024 brings – but keep your eyes on our updates, as before the year ends we’ll be releasing some brand-new eLearning modules.

Like what you see? Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) at @BlueStreamNews for the latest updates from #TeamBSA! 32

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LiveChat Lounge We check in with our friendly customer support team to see what questions they’ve been answering through our LiveChat feature on our website. Here’s one they’ve shared with us for this edition of BSA Today:

Q

Hi Blue Stream!

I have seen that you have added an Online Access to Prospective (Future) Records eLearning module to the GP eLearning and Management platform. Please can you advise how I can add this to my GPs’ and receptionists’ Blue Stream profiles to complete?

Practice Manager, Birmingham Hi there,

A Thank you for getting in touch with us!

As your organisation has subscribed to Blue Stream Academy, you’ll receive unlimited access to all new and updated eLearning modules assigned to your eLearning platform.

To assign modules to staff members, simply head over to your training dashboard, select ‘Management’ > ‘Staff’ > ‘Manage Profiles’ and click 'Edit’ on the job role.

From here, click on the blank space in the modules box, and a drop-down menu will appear. Select ‘Online Access to Prospective (Future) Records’ and click ‘Save’. Your selected employees will then be able to complete the allocated training from their dashboard.

#TeamBSA

We Want to Hear From You!

Our customer support team are available Monday to Friday, 09:00–17:30 to answer any questions you have!

Are you a health, care or wellbeing writer wanting to spread the word about your area of expertise?

We hope this helps. If you need any further assistance, you can contact us by LiveChat, email or over the phone.

This Issue’s Contributors!

A huge thank you to Leigh Williams, CEO at CADAS, for her article published in this issue. If you'd like to find out more about Leigh, please click on her photo below.

Leigh Williams

CEO at CADAS bluestreamacademy.com

Get in touch with the BSA Today team to find out how you could be included in a future issue, and increase your message awareness through a network of over ¼ of a million health and care professionals! bsatoday@bluestreamacademy.com 01773 822549 33

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