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Chief Editor
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Editor’s Letter July 2025
The July edition of Care Home Magazine has landed, where we shine a spotlight on the essential services that so often operate behind the scenes, yet play a central role in the quality of life for care home residents.
This month, we take an in-depth look at Facilities Management—an area that is rapidly gaining recognition for its impact on both operational efficiency and resident wellbeing. Our feature article, The Role of Facilities Management in Improving Resident Satisfaction, explores how a proactive, person-centred approach to facilities can elevate everyday experiences in care homes, from safer environments to more responsive maintenance and thoughtful design. It’s a timely reminder that good care doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it’s supported by the spaces we live in.
We also head behind the scenes in our Laundry focus, where we speak with a dedicated Head of Housekeeping about how laundry services are the unsung heroes of hygiene, dignity, and comfort. From infection control protocols to the daily logistics of managing personal clothing with respect and care, this feature celebrates the laundry teams who quite literally keep the wheels turning in care.
Elsewhere in this issue, our Care Home of the Month highlights innovation and excellence in practice, while Industry News brings you up to speed with the latest developments shaping the sector. And don’t miss this month’s Activity of the Month, which explores the benefits of implementing physiotherapy as part of daily routines—an initiative that not only promotes physical health but also boosts morale and independence among residents.
As always, we aim to inform, inspire, and advocate for the professionals and teams who work tirelessly to make care homes places of safety, warmth, and dignity.
Jade Evans, Chief Editor
Table of Contents
6 Industry Update
As ever, we’re keeping you informed with some of what is happening within the care sector.
14 Link Utility
In another insightful piece from the team at Link Utility, we share how to strategise cost effective energy procurement.
16 Facilities Management
We assess the role of facilities management in improving resident satisfaction within care homes.
22 Activity of the Month
Physiotherapy is spotlighted as the Activity of the Month in Care Home Magazine’s July issue, highlighting its vital role in resident wellbeing and mobility.
27 Laundry
Laundry is indeed the back bone within any care home, we look more specifically into this statement with the help of industry experts.’
32 Dishing Up
Are you struggling for inspiration in the kitchen this winter? Fear not, we have you covered as we share yet another nutritious and fulfilling recipe.
12 22 28 14 32
Industry update
Hartford Care’s Harlow Hall in Aldershot rated ‘Good’ by Care Quality Commission
Hartford Care’s Harlow Hall care home, on Ordnance Road, Aldershot has been rated ‘Good’ following the Care Quality Commission’s first inspection of this home in March 2025.
This rating means that the care home has been found to be performing well and meeting the expectations of the inspectors. The official report following the inspection concludes the service is safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.
It reports that people are treated as individuals and staff make sure care, support and treatment meets residents’ needs and preferences, with people always being treated with kindness, empathy and compassion, with privacy and dignity always being respected.
Residents are supported to manage their health and welling to maximise their independence, choice and control and staff support people to live healthier lives.
During the inspection, a resident said: “They just look after us very well. The staff are nice and the food is good.” People and their relatives described a positive culture within the home and said they would or had recommended Hartford Care to others looking for a care home.”
Emma Jones, Operations Director
at Hartford Care, comments: “We are thrilled to achieve a ‘Good’ rating from CQC, it’s an excellent achievement for a first inspection and for a newly built home. We have a wonderful team at Harlow Hall, who deliver exceptional care in a warm and inclusive, ‘home from home’ environment. The CQC report supports the results of our recent relatives’ survey, where 100% of relatives believed their loved ones felt safe, happy and well cared for living at Harlow Hall.”
Boutique Care Homes Wins ‘Residential Elderly Care Provider – Small’ at HealthInvestor Awards 2025
Boutique Care Homes has proudly been named Winner of the ‘Residential Elderly Care Provider –Small’ category at the prestigious HealthInvestor Awards 2025. A recognition that celebrates excellence in the business of healthcare across the UK.
Held in London on 4 June, the HealthInvestor Awards have, for nearly two decades, spotlighted innovation, dedication, and outstanding care across the sector. Boutique Care Homes’ win in this highly competitive category honours its commitment to delivering care that’s deeply personal, professionally led, and thoughtfully designed for every individual who calls Boutique Care Homes, home.
Founded in 2019 by Managing Director Ameet Kotecha, Boutique
Care Homes has developed four exceptional care homes across the South East; The Burlington in Shepperton, Brampton Manor in Newmarket, Chartwell House in Broadstairs and Keymer Hall in Burgess Hill and set to open in 2025. Each offers residential, dementia and short-stay care within warm, elegant surroundings. Together, they reflect the group’s core philosophy: to be “a warm and loving family where everyone feels at home.”
Speaking after the ceremony, Ameet Kotecha shared his pride in the team’s achievement; “I’m just so proud of what we’re building, not just as a care provider, but as a team of people who genuinely care. This award belongs to every single person who brings our values to life, day in and day out. It recognises the everyday commitment to
personalised, values-driven care that makes such a difference to our residents and their families. We set out to offer care so good, it’s unexpected, and moments like this show we’re staying true to that promise.”
To discover more about Boutique Care Homes, please visit www.boutiquecarehomes. co.uk.
A Simple Solution
The rise of Agentic AI: Empowering care home teams with autonomous digital workers. By
Abbey Milne, Social Care Lead at Sona
The care sector has faced significant challenges in recent years, amplified by an ageing population, rising demand for services and increasing labour costs. On top of this, care providers are grappling with workforce burnout, high turnover and the constant need to maintain care quality with limited resources. In the face of these pressures, Agentic AI emerges as a promising solution, providing a strategic advantage by streamlining operations and supporting care teams in their crucial work.
Care providers are under immense financial strain, with rising operational costs and staffing shortages becoming persistent issues. On April 1st, 2025, changes
to National Insurance and the National Living Wage pushed staffing costs up by as much as 10%. For care homes already operating with thin margins, these increases add further financial pressure. Providers must act quickly to adapt to these changes without compromising the quality of care that residents deserve.
Staffing shortages are one of the most pressing concerns. To meet demand, many care homes rely on costly agency staff, which, while filling gaps, comes with a significant financial burden. This reliance on agencies creates a delicate balancing act: maintaining the quality of care while keeping costs under control. More
importantly, it adds to the pressure on management teams who need to ensure not only the well-being of their staff but also the financial viability of their operations.
Administrative demands placed on care managers often take away from the time they need to focus on care. Manual scheduling, payroll tasks and other routine duties consume valuable resources. This is where Agentic AI steps in.
Agentic AI, a workforce management solution from Sona, is designed to automate many of the time-consuming tasks that weigh down care teams, from optimising schedules to tracking employee wellbeing and predicting turnover. Unlike traditional automation systems, which follow pre-set rules, Agentic AI uses autonomous agents that continuously observe and learn from operational data, allowing them to make decisions and execute tasks with minimal human input.
At its core, AI helps care providers manage their operations more efficiently. The system can streamline scheduling, payroll and staffing decisions, ensuring that
resources are allocated effectively. Agentic AI specifically can interpret real-time data, provide insights, and most importantly, take actions, enabling managers to make better, faster decisions. This means that they can devote their time and energy to their team rather than administrative duties, leading to both improved care delivery and enhanced employee satisfaction.
For example, Agentic AI can identify gaps in staffing coverage and suggest real-time adjustments that fit the context (e.g. it would not suggest a junior member of staff if the individual requires senior support), helping managers stay on top of fluctuating demands.
Additionally, the platform helps ensure that staffing levels align with care requirements, reducing the risk of understaffing and maintaining high standards of care. This proactive approach is essential
for ensuring that care homes remain compliant with regulatory standards, meet support needs and provide a consistent quality of care to residents.
Importantly, Agentic AI is designed to work alongside human teams, rather than replace them. It empowers staff by providing digital support for routine tasks, allowing care teams to focus on what matters most: delivering compassionate, high-quality care to residents. At the same time, managers and leadership teams are always ultimately in control and can decide what requires their approval and what doesn’t.
Rising labour costs and the pressure to maintain care standards can lead to long hours and burnout among care teams. In fact, according to Skills for Care, around 90% of social care providers report that staff wellbeing is a key concern
due to high workloads and the emotional demands of the job. To solve this, Agentic AI can predict staffing needs and adjust schedules dynamically to reduce overtime, which can otherwise contribute to employee stress.
By supporting work-life balance and improving operational efficiency, Agentic AI also helps improve retention, ensuring that care teams remain engaged and supported. For example, when managers can accurately predict staffing shortages ahead of time, they can proactively arrange for extra shifts to be covered by permanent staff rather than resorting to expensive and often less consistent agency workers.
Cost efficiency is also critical for care providers facing rising labour expenses. Agentic AI can spot unusual wage overheads and suggest solutions, which leads to
significant financial savings for early adopters.
The adoption of Agentic AI marks a pivotal shift in how care homes operate. As digital technologies continue to transform industries, Agentic AI brings the benefits of automation, data analysis and real-time decision-making to the care sector. This transition not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances service delivery and supports compliance with regulatory standards.
As care providers face increasing scrutiny from regulatory bodies, Agentic AI’s real-time monitoring ensures that staffing levels and operational practices meet regulatory requirements. This support helps care homes not only stay compliant but also exceed the standards expected, improving the
overall quality of care. Digital tools like Agentic AI provide a level of transparency and accountability that manual processes simply cannot offer, helping care homes build trust with residents, families and regulators.
The future of Agentic AI in the care sector is promising. As the technology evolves, it will continue to learn and improve, becoming even more adept at addressing new challenges. This means that care providers will benefit from a system that not only adapts to current needs but grows more valuable over time. The more the system is used, the better it becomes at identifying inefficiencies and providing recommendations.
Agentic AI is more than just a technological innovation; it represents a transformative shift
in care home management. The efficiency gains provided by Agentic AI have the potential to alleviate much of the administrative burden faced by care teams, allowing them to focus on what matters most: providing highquality, compassionate care.
The future of care is digital, and AI is at the forefront of that transformation. By integrating this technology into daily operations, care homes can not only survive the challenges ahead but thrive in an increasingly digital world, ensuring they continue to provide the best possible care for their residents. In an industry under immense pressure, AI offers a clear path forward, creating efficiencies, improving staff satisfaction and ultimately raising the standard of care delivered across the sector.
Rethinking the Cloud
How Gold Care Homes addressed the now and planned for the future using Sage Intacct.
In the dynamic social care sector, adapting to change is crucial.
Gold Care Homes, a family-owned organisation with over 200 employees, recently embarked on a digital transformation journey following a period of immense growth. Renowned for their dedication to enhancing residents’ lives, their expansion and acquisition of new care homes necessitated a shift from Sage 50 to the advanced, cloud-native Sage Intacct.
The Need for Change
For over a decade, Gold Care Homes relied on Sage 50. However, rapid growth brought challenges
that could no longer be managed with their existing system. Issues such as data management, slow performance, and manual processing became increasingly problematic. The acquisition of new care home locations further complicated matters, making consolidation across multiple entities and the generation of reports a pressing need. Recognising these challenges, Director of Finance Vivek Goradia and his team decided to migrate to a cloud-based solution to support their growth.
The transition to Sage Intacct was a collaborative effort between Gold Care Homes and PKF Smith Cooper Systems (PKF SCS).
Consultants Ian Barbour and Haris Naeem from PKF SCS worked closely with Vivek’s team, adopting a holistic approach to understand their needs. A key focus was on reporting—particularly multientity management. Gold Care Homes used Sage Intacct to ensure accurate, location-specific information was accessible and reported to regional managers.
The Results: Enhanced Efficiency andPerformance
The implementation of Sage Intacct brought about significant improvements. The cloud-native solution enhanced performance and allowed system access from
anywhere. Vivek Goradia praised the collaboration with PKF Smith Cooper Systems, noting that adding new entities or locations became easier, eliminating productivity bottlenecks. Manual data consolidation in Excel became a thing of the past.
Reporting was also transformed with Sage Intacct. Driven by Dimensions and Dimension Groups, it now provides real-time reports on homes, companies, and regions. The granularity of reporting was a game changer. As a care group with multiple sites, Gold Care Homes can now analyse each home’s performance individually, rather than relying solely on company-wide figures. In addition, user-friendly tools have empowered the team to create and amend reports independently.
Like many care providers, managing multiple income streams can be challenging. Sage Intacct now gives Gold Care Homes a clear view of their entire financial landscape. Figures are updated instantaneously each time a transaction is entered—without the need for manual intervention.
The benefits of Sage Intacct extended beyond financial management. Gold Care Homes incorporated non-financial data, such as bed occupancy, into KPI reports and dashboards. This has provided a comprehensive view of both financial performance and operational trends, enabling enhanced decision-making.
These advancements now give
Gold Care Homes a complete, real-time overview of operations— supporting more informed and strategic decisions.
Gold Care Homes’ journey with Sage Intacct and PKF Smith Cooper Systems showcases the power of digital transformation in the social care sector. By embracing change and advanced technology, they addressed immediate challenges and positioned themselves for sustainable growth and excellence in care.
This case study highlights how your finance system can be optimised as a strategic tool to drive efficiency, improve performance, and enhance care quality.
What is Sage Intacct?
Sage Intacct is a powerful, cloudnative financial management solution built for growing
businesses. Its real-time, multidimensional reporting enables faster, data-driven decisions. With seamless automation, scalability, and deep integration capabilities, Sage Intacct streamlines complex accounting processes— empowering finance teams to work strategically and boost efficiency.
Who are PKF Smith Cooper Systems?
PKF Smith Cooper Systems is a multi-award-winning Sage Business Partner, delivering expert consultancy, implementation, and support for Sage 200 and Sage Intacct. Renowned for their deep technical knowledge and customerfirst approach, they empower UK businesses to streamline operations, unlock software potential, and scale confidently with tailored, futureready financial solutions.
pkfscs.co.uk
Beyond the Energy Crisis
Matt Oliver is the Founder and Director of Link Utility Consultants, specialising in energy procurement for care homes across the UK. With expertise in securing competitive energy contracts and a commitment to transparency, Matt shares strategic solutions for care homes.
In today’s economic landscape, care homes face unprecedented challenges. Rising energy costs, staffing pressures, and regulatory demands create a perfect storm threatening the sustainability of quality care provision.
The energy crisis has hit care homes particularly hard. According to Care England, many facilities have seen heating bills soar by up to 500% in recent years. For an industry where energy is typically the largest non-staff cost, these increases aren’t merely inconvenient—they’re existential threats.
A sobering statistic from The Guardian revealed that a third of care homes across England have considered closing due to “financially crippling” running costs. This isn’t just a business concern; it’s a potential care crisis affecting our most vulnerable citizens.
The Energy Challenge for Care Homes
Care homes face unique energy challenges that other businesses don’t. They must maintain comfortable temperatures for elderly residents who are often more sensitive to cold. They must ensure well-lit environments for safety and wellbeing. And they must power an increasing array of medical and assistive technologies that support quality care.
Yet I’ve observed countless
instances of energy waste in care settings: lights left on in unoccupied rooms, heating systems running at full capacity in rarely-used areas, and outdated equipment consuming excessive power.
This experience has shaped my understanding that energy efficiency and excellent care aren’t competing priorities—they’re complementary goals that, when properly aligned, strengthen each other.
The Hidden Costs of Traditional Energy Brokerage
One of the most troubling issues I’ve encountered is how care homes are often locked into long-term contracts that primarily benefit brokers rather than the facilities themselves.
Here’s an uncomfortable truth: many energy brokers earn commission based on the length and value of contracts they secure. This creates a perverse incentive to push care homes into extended 3-5 year contracts, regardless of market conditions.
Within these long-term agreements, I can guarantee that at some stages care homes are significantly overpaying for their energy. When market prices fall, these facilities remain locked into higher rates while their broker has already collected their commission.
A ApproachComprehensive to Energy Management
At Link Utility Consultants, we’ve developed a comprehensive service specifically for care homes that goes beyond traditional brokerage.
Our free review service examines your existing contracts to identify hidden costs and opportunities for savings. We assess out-ofcontract risks that could leave you vulnerable to punitive rates, ensure you’re receiving the reduced VAT rate of 5% and zero Climate Change Levy (CCL) that care homes are entitled to, and register your facility for priority services to protect vulnerable residents during supply interruptions.
This holistic approach culminates in a tailored procurement strategy that uses our forecast-led methodology to help you ride out market fluctuations and secure more favourable rates for the majority of the time.
Strategic Energy Solutions for Care Homes
1. Transparent Energy Procurement
Working with a specialist broker who understands care homes and operates with transparent commission structures can secure rates 10-15% lower than standard renewal quotes without locking facilities into unfavourable longterm agreements.
2. Smart TechnologiesBuilding
Intelligent heating controls that adjust based on occupancy patterns and automated lighting systems can reduce energy consumption by 20-30% while improving resident comfort.
Care homes that implement zoned heating controls that maintain higher temperatures in resident rooms while reducing heating in less-used areas, can benefit from a 22% reduction in gas consumption without compromising comfort.
3. Staff Engagement
Your staff are on the frontlines of energy usage. Simple measures like energy awareness training and clear signage can yield significant results. The most successful care homes create a culture where energy efficiency becomes part of delivering quality care.
Balancing Comfort with Efficiency
Modern energy management doesn’t mean lowering temperatures or dimming lights in resident areas. Instead, it means eliminating waste in unoccupied spaces and ensuring energy is used
purposefully rather than wastefully.
The care homes achieving the best results maintain excellent comfort standards while eliminating energy waste in unoccupied areas and through more efficient systems.
A Call to Action
As care home operators, we face a choice. We can view the energy crisis solely as a threat, or we can use it as a catalyst for positive transformation.
At Link Utility Consultants, we’re committed to supporting care homes through this journey. Our specialist broker pricing guarantees to beat any renewal quote direct from energy suppliers, while our transparent approach ensures you maintain control over your energy contracts. We cap our commissions and provide full disclosure, ensuring our success is the savings we generate for you.
The path forward isn’t about quick fixes or long-term contracts that primarily benefit brokers. It’s about building resilient, efficient operations that can sustain quality care for years to come—regardless of what the energy markets throw our way. linkutility.co.uk
Creating Comfort
In today’s care home sector, where quality of life is paramount, facilities management plays an increasingly vital role - not just in maintaining compliance, but in shaping environments where residents truly feel at home. Martin Murphy, Director of Operations at Boutique Care Homes, shares his insights into how thoughtful facilities management directly supports resident wellbeing and satisfaction.
“For us at Boutique Care Homes, strong pre-emptive facilities management ensures the environment feels safe, clean, and well cared for,” Martin explained. “Whilst safety is paramount, we feel that this should not take away from the experience. What we do should always be quietly supporting residents’ daily routines.”
From the temperature of a bedroom to the reliability of lighting and lifts, it’s the everyday details, done right, that underpin a resident’s sense of ease and independence. “Facilities play a background role that helps residents feel settled and respected
and free to go about their days with minimal interruption,” Martin added.
When it comes to factors that most influence resident satisfaction, Martin insists that it’s not always grand gestures, but simple, consistent standards that count. “It’s often the simple things done well: well-kept rooms, clean bathrooms, pleasant lighting, and fresh air. Well-maintained spaces and the confidence to know that whatever goes wrong is dealt with efficiently and effectively.”
However, Boutique Care Homes aims higher than the basics. “To us, it’s about quiet spaces, safe access to nature, and environments that feel warm, personal and fit for changing needs but not clinical,”
Martin said. “Get this right and you have the ingredients for fulfilment!”
Balancing rigorous regulatory standards with a sense of home can be challenging, but Martin sees this as an opportunity, not a conflict. “It’s about planning with both eyes open. One on safety and one on how it feels to live there,” he noted. “The best environments meet regulations without residents noticing them.”
This philosophy is embedded in the Boutique Care Homes ethos. “We are tireless in our pursuit of using tasteful materials, ensuring we are discreet with safety features, and spending the time required to ensure thoughtful, elegant and understated design,” Martin said.
“All this helps keep the home both compliant and an environment you yearn to be around.”
Resident feedback, according to Martin, is the compass that guides facilities strategy. “Without feedback, we would be rudderless - it’s what helps us improve on a daily basis. The teams in the home actively find ways of getting feedback; this helps our facilities teams focus on what really matters.”
Listening closely not only resolves issues quickly but drives meaningful progress. “I’d urge everyone to do
this,” Martin said. “It is important that we embrace change and that we send a message that residents’ voices matter as they help us shape their environment.”
Boutique Care Homes also embrace innovation in ways both subtle and bold. “We are constantly looking at new ways to use innovation and seeking out the subtle, meaningful touches as well as the bold, forward-thinking ideas that bring our homes to life,” Martin explained.
Initiatives include internal
gardens, balconies, and sensory outdoor spaces to boost wellbeing, alongside acoustic-friendly materials that help reduce noise stress. “We carefully curate every element of the environment. Our elegant yet understated interior design gives a touch of luxury whilst most importantly feeling like home,” Martin said.
Digital tools also play a part. “We embrace intelligent electronic systems that reduce admin time. This allows our teams to focus on what really matters - connecting with residents.”
But perhaps the most transformative innovation is personalisation. “We believe that true innovation lies in personalisation: from bespoke décor choices to thoughtful room layouts, our residents help shape the spaces they call home.”
As Martin makes clear, exceptional facilities management is about more than buildings and systems - it’s about dignity, autonomy, and the quiet confidence of knowing you are cared for. Through thoughtful design, open feedback, and a commitment to continual improvement, care homes can create more than a safe spacethey can create a home.
Essential 5
Five ways smart technology can improve care home management by enhancing security, reducing energy consumption, and improving communication.
Enhancing Security with Smart Monitoring Systems
Security is paramount in any care setting. Smart surveillance systems equipped with motion sensors, facial recognition, and automated alerts can drastically reduce the risk of unauthorised access or unnoticed incidents. These systems allow real-time monitoring of both indoor and outdoor areas, ensuring that residents, particularly those with dementia or wandering tendencies, are safe at all times. Integration with mobile apps allows managers and designated staff to receive alerts instantly, improving emergency response and peace of mind for families.
Streamlining Access Control
Smart access control systems - such as key card or biometric entry - offer another layer of security. These systems can be programmed to restrict or grant access to certain areas based on staff roles or resident needs, minimising risks such as medication errors or accidental entry into hazardous zones. Additionally, digital logs track entries and exits, supporting compliance with health and safety regulations and simplifying audits.
Reducing Energy Consumption Through Smart Climate Control
Heating, lighting, and air conditioning account for a significant portion of a care home’s operational costs. Smart thermostats and lighting systems automatically adjust based on occupancy and time of day, optimising energy use without compromising comfort. For example, motion-sensing lights ensure rooms are only lit when in use, and smart HVAC systems can be adjusted remotely or automated based on pre-set schedules, reducing waste and supporting sustainability goals.
Enhancing Internal Communication and Coordination
Efficient communication among staff is essential in care home environments. Smart communication platforms, such as secure mobile apps or integrated digital dashboards, streamline task assignments, shift planning, and incident reporting. These tools ensure that important updates reach the right staff in real time, reducing delays in care delivery and improving overall workflow. Voice-activated assistants and wearable communication devices also offer hands-free options, which are particularly helpful in emergency situations or when staff are with residents.
5 4 3 2 1
Improving Resident-Family Connectivity
Maintaining connections between residents and their families is critical for emotional wellbeing. Smart video calling devices, digital photo frames, and family portals allow loved ones to stay connected, even from a distance. These technologies can also be used by staff to share care updates and health progress, fostering transparency and trust. In doing so, they help reduce family anxiety and promote a sense of inclusion in the care process.
In conclusion, smart technology is not just a luxury in today’s care homes - it’s becoming a necessity. By strengthening security, cutting energy costs, and boosting communication, smart systems enable care home managers to provide a safer, more efficient, and more compassionate environment for residents and staff alike. Embracing these innovations paves the way for more resilient and future-ready care facilities.
Simplifying Compliance
Navigating the world of care is no small feat. Behind every care home is a deep sense of responsibility—not just to provide comfort and support, but to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both residents and staff. In this insightful piece, Jordan Stack, Director at Red Peak Compliance, reflects on his personal journey from helping in his family’s care home to becoming a trusted compliance advisor in the sector.
When I first stepped into the world of care, it was through the family business, Rowallan House Care Home, where I witnessed first-hand the incredible responsibility that comes with looking after others. As anyone in the care sector knows, the role demands not just compassion and dedication, but a strong grasp of regulations, safety standards, and the ever-evolving landscape of compliance.
My journey began informally — helping with day-to-day operations, connecting with residents, and supporting staff where needed.
Over time, I saw how critical compliance was to the wellbeing and protection of staff, residents, and the operation of the business. Rather than being a box-ticking exercise, I wanted to implement good health and safety practices to safeguard the lives of those in our care. This realisation led me to form my business Red Peak Compliance, to simplify the compliance process with an all-in-one service, removing the need for multiple providers and offering a tailored package for care homes, including risk assessments for fire, health and safety, Legionella, and more.
Because I’ve lived both sides of the fence — care provider and assessor — I know how daunting compliance can feel. Regulations change. Inspectors arrive with little notice. Systems break down when you’re short-staffed. But the
key to navigating it all is to treat compliance not as a burden, but as a tool that can help protect and safeguard not only your business, but more importantly, the staff and residents who rely on you.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
From my experience, the most
common pitfalls in care settings aren’t due to neglect — they stem from being overloaded. Risk assessments sit untouched in filing cabinets, training records fall out of date, policies are created but not put into practice. The solution? Keep it simple and embed safety into your culture in a way that is manageable for you and your
people. If a risk assessor gives you an action plan that feels overwhelming, try breaking it down into smaller, more practical steps. This will make it easier to work through and help you create a safer environment without feeling daunted.
A good tip I can recommend from experience is to ‘start with your people’. Encourage a ‘see it, say it, sort it’ culture among all employees, from top to bottom, so small hazards are picked up quickly before they become incidents and cause serious harm. Schedule regular (but realistic) reviews of your compliance documents, and don’t be afraid to ask for external help. Often, by consulting with others, new perspectives and solutions can be uncovered. Tackling action plans step by step empowers your team rather than leaving them feeling overloaded.
Protecting Residents’ Health
One of the most important things I’ve learned, both as a care provider and a compliance assessor, is that keeping residents safe isn’t just about reacting to problems — it’s about staying ahead of them. Being proactive means taking small but consistent actions to stop hazards from developing in the first place. For example, prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria such as Legionella by flushing infrequently used water outlets. Avoid trip hazards in emergencies by keeping corridors free from clutter. Reduce the risk of fires by storing combustibles correctly, and regularly check that your fire extinguishers are functioning properly.
before things go wrong is the real key to success.
These examples might seem like simple checks, but they form the foundation of a safe environment. When done routinely, they become part of your care culture — not just a tick-box compliance process. Prevention also creates peace of mind. Staff can focus on care, and families feel more confident knowing their loved ones are in a well-managed, risk-aware setting. Building habits among you and your staff that protect people
Being part of running a care home is as much a personal endeavour as it is a business one. I know this from experience. You carry the emotional weight of your residents’ wellbeing on your shoulders every day. But compliance doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right mind-set, support, and systems, it becomes your strongest ally.
Wherever you are on your journey as a care provider, safety and care go hand in hand — and compliance is at the heart of both. Staying on top of your checks not only helps you meet your legal duties but also creates a safer, more supportive environment for residents and staff alike. redpeakcompliance.com
Transforming Lives
As care homes increasingly seek holistic ways to support residents’ wellbeing, physiotherapy is emerging as a crucial yet often underutilised intervention. This August, physiotherapy features as our Activity of the Month and Kelly Steed, Physiotherapist at Severn Physiotherapy LLP, shares how her team’s work in care homes is not only enhancing residents’ physical health, but also restoring their independence, dignity, and joy.
Physiotherapy plays a vital role for individuals living with frailty, long-term conditions, or recovering from hospital stays and falls. For these residents, timely rehabilitation is essential—not just for physical recovery, but for regaining a sense of purpose and improving overall wellbeing.
“Rehabilitation aims to identify realistic goals and improve independence and wellbeing,” Kelly explained. “People who’ve had a
period of reduced mobility often benefit immensely from structured, meaningful movement therapy.”
However, many care home residents face long NHS waiting lists or are deemed as having “no rehabilitation potential,” particularly those living with dementia. Recognising this gap, Severn Physiotherapy established a private community service, enabling residents to access the support they need—when they need it most.
Since beginning work with care
homes, Kelly and her team have supported hundreds of residents. Each case is unique, but the outcomes often share a common thread: restored dignity and improved quality of life.
She recalls the case of a female resident who was receiving all personal care in bed, with no opportunities to use the toilet. “After a thorough therapy assessment, we worked with her and the care team to provide a toileting sling, enabling her to use
the bathroom in a more normal and dignified way. This small change had a ripple effect—it improved her bowel health, allowed her more time sitting up and moving during the day, and greatly boosted her mood.”
In another powerful example, Kelly described a gentleman who had not walked in months and was discharged from NHS physiotherapy due to perceived lack of potential. “He had been in the police and was very physically active in his life. We were able to get him standing and eventually walking independently down the corridor with a frame. His joy at regaining that ability was immeasurable.”
The physiological benefits of being upright and mobile are numerous: better muscle strength, improved digestion, enhanced mood, more social interaction, improved cardiovascular function, and even stronger bones. “But the most profound impact,” Kelly noted, “is on self-esteem and mental wellbeing. People feel they are achieving something again.”
What a Typical Physiotherapy Session Looks Like
Every session begins with a comprehensive assessment involving the resident, carers, and family members. Information is gathered on the resident’s medical background, physical capabilities, medications, and any barriers to communication, such as hearing or
cognitive difficulties.
The sessions themselves are deeply personalised. Physiotherapists assess mobility, strength, posture, and balance, using hands-on techniques to identify issues like muscle weakness, joint stiffness, or neurological impairments. Blood pressure and other vital indicators are also monitored.
“By the end of the session, we’ve built strong rapport with everyone involved, and most importantly, helped the resident identify realistic goals that give them purpose and motivation,” said Kelly.
Therapy doesn’t stop at assessment. It continues with movement-based activities that are meaningful to each resident—from walking in the garden to using the kitchen or even visiting a local café. Severn Physiotherapy also brings
fun and engagement into sessions through silent discos, relaxation exercises, and group activities that promote both social bonding and physical health.
One highlight is their group falls prevention classes. “These sessions combine regular exercise, education, and crucially—laughter and social connection. It’s not just about balance and strength. It’s about confidence, friendship, and wellbeing.”
For care homes considering integrating physiotherapy, Kelly offered clear advice: “We believe every care home should have an embedded therapist who is skilled in managing older people with complex needs. It significantly improves residents’ wellbeing and can even reduce the burden on staff by increasing residents’ independence.”
To extend their impact, Severn Physiotherapy is piloting a collaborative training programme for carers in partnership with RMR Rehabilitation and Severn Community Therapy CIC. The aim is to equip carers with the skills and confidence to engage residents in mobility and exercise conversations and support them with tailored activity plans.
“This empowers staff, enriches their roles, and provides residents with more opportunities for recovery between therapy visits. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
Care Home of the Month Halmer Court
Sponsored By
Nestled just a short walk from Spalding town centre, Halmer Court is a modern care home that quietly places community, dignity, and everyday joys at the centre of life for its residents.
Opened in 2021, Halmer Court is part of the Glenholme Healthcare Group, an organisation with over 30 years’ experience supporting adults with care needs. While Glenholme’s portfolio spans a variety of services—including residential, dementia, nursing, and specialist support for people with complex disabilities—Halmer Court has developed a distinct identity shaped by its local community and the people who live and work there.
The home is purpose-built and accommodates up to 61 residents across three floors. Each room includes en suite facilities, and the building has been designed with both comfort and accessibility in mind. The ground-floor café is open
throughout the day for residents and visitors, and communal areas— including lounges, dining spaces and a hairdressing salon—offer spaces for relaxation, activity and connection.
Halmer Court is divided into two key areas: Goldfinch Close, which supports individuals living with dementia and cognitive impairments, and Falcon Way, which provides residential care. A change in registration is currently underway to introduce nursing care, which will extend the range of support available on site.
Alongside its modern facilities, Halmer Court’s atmosphere is shaped less by its layout and more by its daily life—by fish and chip lunches on Good Friday, ukulele bands in the lounge, shared laughter over quizzes, and the weekly arrival of primary school children from nearby St Paul’s. “It’s about making special days,” says Home Manager Jo Coughlan, “just
as you would if you were living in your own home.”
A strong sense of routine and purpose is fostered by a dedicated activities team, whose remit includes physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Their sessions range from gardening and flower arranging to poetry groups and armchair exercise. A recent addition—a mobile interactive sensory projector often referred to as a “Magic Table”—has become a favourite, particularly for residents with memory loss. Its adaptability allows staff to tailor experiences for individuals or small groups, whether projected onto tables or walls.
Community involvement is a running thread through daily life. Halmer Court recently joined Spalding’s iconic Flower Parade, sponsoring a float themed around Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Residents watched from the front garden, wrapped in spring sunshine, drinks
in hand and ice creams at the ready. Some moments are more personal. On VE Day, the home partnered with the local British Legion to mark the occasion, with one resident—Charles, a 102-yearold veteran—taking centre stage. Plans are already in place for his 103rd birthday in July, which will begin with a Bucks Fizz breakfast with friends from the British Legion. These connections are not an afterthought. As Jo puts it, “It’s vitally important to have the outside coming in, and the inside going out.” That philosophy underpins Halmer Court’s approach—where the goal isn’t simply to provide care, but to enable people to continue living lives that are meaningful, social and full of choice.
In a time when many older people face isolation, places like Halmer Court are demonstrating that care homes can be something more: part of the fabric of the community, and part of the solution to ageing well.
Laundry
Raising the Standard
Forbes Professional advises on how to ensure compliance, hygiene, and efficiency in your care home laundry.
An Overlooked Frontline in Infection Control
In the care sector, infection control is a constant, critical responsibility that underpins every aspect of daily operations. While attention is often focused on clinical and personal care routines, laundry is a key frontline defence in the battle against cross-contamination and infection. Its effective management is essential to maintaining compliance with both CQC and WRAS regulations.
Why Domestic Machines Fall Short
All too often, care homes continue to rely on domestic or ‘light commercial’ machines. These may appear cost-effective on the surface, but they fall far short of the stringent hygiene standards required in professional care environments. Domestic and ‘light commercial’ machines lack the specialised functions needed to manage soiled linens effectively; they cannot reach the high temperatures necessary for thermal disinfection, they don’t feature
sluice cycles for pre-washing contaminated items, and crucially, they are not WRAS Category 5 compliant. Using machines that are not built for commercial environments may void the warranty and put residents, staff, and the organisation at risk.
Hygiene and Compliance with Forbes Professional
Forbes Professional has long understood these challenges and has positioned itself as a trusted
partner to care homes nationwide. Their tailored laundry solutions are not only fully compliant with WRAS Category 5 standards, but also aligned with the expectations of the CQC. This combination of hygiene assurance and regulatory compliance is non-negotiable for care providers committed to best practice.
Preventing ContaminationCross-with the Right Systems
One of the most important considerations in managing laundry in a care setting is preventing crosscontamination. This requires strict segregation protocols; separating clean and soiled linens, ensuring staff use appropriate PPE during handling, and operating machines that are capable of processing heavily contaminated loads with appropriate disinfection cycles. Red laundry bags for infected items, clear signage, and distinct ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’ zones are all part of an effective infection control strategy. However, without the right equipment, even the best processes can fall short.
The Importance of WRAS Category 5 Compliance
Care homes are classified as WRAS Category 5 environments due to the high risk of contamination from bodily fluids present in laundry. This means machines must have builtin safeguards, such as backflow prevention devices and dedicated water supplies, to protect the mains from contamination. The absence of these features in domestic machines is not only a technical shortfall but a potential legal liability. Forbes Professional addresses this through its provision of WRAS-approved commercial machines that are specifically engineered to operate safely in high-risk settings.
Built-in Thermal Disinfection and Sluice Cycles
With regards to thermal disinfection, CQC guidance requires that linens be washed at either 65°C for a minimum of 10 minutes, or at 71°C for at least three minutes. For a heavy degree of loading (that is, above 0.056 kg/L), it is necessary to add eight minutes to these times. Achieving and sustaining these temperatures is something domestic appliances simply cannot guarantee. Forbes’ machines, including models from Miele’s specialist hygiene range, are designed with pre-programmed disinfection cycles and temperature monitoring; ensuring that every load meets the required standards,
and that hygiene performance can be validated with certainty.
Tailored Solutions Backed by Expert Support
Beyond the equipment itself, implementation matters just as much. No two care homes are the same, and a one-size-fitsall approach rarely works when it comes to laundry. That’s why Forbes offers free, expert site surveys as a standard part of their service. These assessments look at the specific needs of your facility, from load volume and space constraints to staff workflow, and result in customised recommendations that help improve efficiency and safety. They even include CAD designs to help you visualise a more compliant and streamlined laundry area.
A Reliable Partner for the Long Term
It is essential to ensure reliable, ongoing support will be provided after a laundry installation. Forbes has a nationwide engineer network that ensures prompt maintenance and servicing, giving care homes the reassurance that their critical equipment will remain fully operational. This proactive approach reduces downtime and supports uninterrupted care delivery, which is especially vital in high-dependency environments.
In a sector where the stakes are high and margins for error are slim, cutting corners on laundry infrastructure simply isn’t worth the risk. Investing in WRAS-compliant, CQC-aligned solutions from a specialist provider like Forbes is not just a matter of ticking regulatory boxes, it’s about safeguarding the health and wellbeing of residents, supporting staff, and futureproofing your facility.
forbespro.co.uk
info@forbes-professional.co.uk 0345 070 2335
On-Premise Laundries
Supporting care home excellence, by Clare Humphrey, Country Marketing & Product Manager GB & IRE at Miele Professional.
Excellence in care homes includes many considerations from maintaining stringent hygiene standards to ensuring residents feel safe, comfortable and dignified. There can be no compromise – every operational decision matters. Yet one crucial area often overlooked is laundry management. This aspect must be strongly considered because the choice between outsourcing or establishing an on-premise laundry facility can profoundly impact both resident wellbeing and operational efficiency. The evidence for bringing laundry in-house is compelling across hygiene, resident care and cost considerations.
The hygiene imperative
Care homes support vulnerable populations where infection control is vital. Residents may have
weakened immune systems, making them particularly susceptible to infections that can spread through contaminated linens or clothing. An on-premise laundry facility provides care homes with direct control over these critical hygiene processes.
When laundry stays on-site, the risk of cross-contamination drops significantly. There’s no transport between facilities where items might be exposed to external contaminants or pathogens. It also allows staff to easily monitor wash cycles and ensure disinfection programmes consistently reach the required temperatures to eliminate harmful microorganisms. This level of oversight simply isn’t possible when laundry leaves the premises.
Commercial laundry equipment designed specifically for care settings offers programmes that meet NHS guidelines for thermal and chemo-thermal disinfection.
These machines maintain precise temperatures throughout wash cycles, providing the consistent results needed to protect resident health. With infection rates directly impacting Care Quality Commission ratings and resident outcomes, the ability to guarantee hygiene standards becomes a competitive advantage.
Beyond cleanliness: The human element
While hygiene forms the foundation of care home laundry, the human aspect runs equally deep. For many residents, moving into care represents a significant life transition. Familiar comforts become more precious than ever. Whether it’s the smell of freshly laundered clothes using a particular detergent, the feel of soft towels or the sight of personal items properly cared for – these details can matter
enormously to resident wellbeing.
On-premise facilities allow care homes to personalise laundry services in ways outsourcing cannot match. Staff can use specific detergents that residents recognise from home, adjust wash settings for delicate personal items, or accommodate individual preferences about when laundry gets done. This flexibility helps maintain residents’ sense of identity and control during a time when both might feel threatened.
Some progressive care homes take this further by involving capable residents in their own laundry care. Modern commercial machines like Miele’s Little Giants feature intuitive controls that allow supervised residents to maintain this aspect of independence safely. Such participation can boost confidence and provide meaningful daily structure.
Operational excellence through efficiency
The benefits of on-premise laundry extend well beyond resident care to encompass significant operational advantages. Quick turnaround times mean care homes need fewer sets of linens and clothing in circulation, reducing storage requirements and initial investment costs. When accidents happen, staff can respond immediately
rather than waiting for external collection and delivery schedules.
Energy efficiency has become another factor. Modern heat-pump dryers consume approximately 60% less energy than conventional models while delivering faster cycle times. For care homes processing substantial daily laundry volumes, these savings accumulate rapidly.
The latest generation of commercial equipment also uses less water and detergent without compromising cleaning performance, further reducing operational costs.
The financial predictability of onpremise laundry provides additional value. Rather than facing variable outsourcing costs that fluctuate with volume or fuel prices, care homes can budget accurately for utilities and maintenance.
Making the transition work
Establishing a successful onpremise laundry requires thoughtful planning. Space allocation, equipment selection and staff training all need careful consideration. However, comprehensive support services can smooth this transition considerably. Miele360PRO, for instance, provides consultancy services that analyse specific care home needs, optimise processes, and ensure equipment
specifications match actual requirements. Digital solutions such as Miele MOVE Connect can monitor machine performance, predict maintenance needs, and even provide remote troubleshooting support.
The investment in commercial equipment pays dividends through reliability. Machines designed for intensive care home use withstand constant operation while maintaining consistent performance. Features like automatic detergent dosing ensure optimal cleaning while preventing waste, and programmable controls allow different staff members to achieve identical results.
Looking ahead
As care homes face increasing scrutiny around infection control and resident satisfaction, onpremise laundry facilities offer a pathway to excellence in both areas.
The decision to bring laundry in-house represents more than an operational choice – it’s an investment in resident dignity, staff efficiency and organisational resilience. For care homes committed to providing exceptional care, on-premise laundry is a necessity.
miele.co.uk
Dishing Up
Providing inspiration in abundance once again, Bidfood, share a mouth-watering and importantly nutritious recipe for their Peruvian roasted chicken and cous cous, bound to be a hit with your residents.
As one of the UK’s leading foodservice providers, here at Bidfood we have a passion for great food and are always focused on going the extra mile for our customers. Being the best is a key part of our ethos, and we strive to deliver service excellence, making life easier for customers and helping them grow.
With over 500 care home specific recipes, our dedicated care team provide an array of support from catering for diabetes, to keeping operators up to date with the latest trends in care, making sure meal times are always delicious and memorable times in your care home.
Diabetes currently affects a massive 4.9 million people in the UK. And, with the condition more commonly prevalent amongst the elderly population, it’s incredibly important that they’re catered for in care homes.
Effective diabetes care for older people requires nutritional support to help maintain healthy blood sugar level and reduce the risk of
complications. However, Bidfood has recognised through customer insight that catering for diabetes within the care sector is especially challenging, as care homes continue to operate under tight budgets and are feeling the impact of rising food costs.
Consistently creating nutritious and delicious meals tailored to residents’ individual requirements isn’t always easy, especially when you are juggling time, budgets, stock levels and the skill level of your staff. So to help navigate
Method:
1. Pre heat the oven to 180° and prep the vegetables.
2. Place chicken in a bowl with 20ml of oil, 10g of garlic, the zest and juice of the lemon, 1g of black pepper, cumin, oregano, paprika and rub together and allow to marinate. (overnight if possible)
3. Then place on a baking tray and roast until reaching temperature and allow to rest.
4. Place the aubergine, courgette, peppers and red onion in a bowl and mix with the remaining 20ml of oil and mix well. Place the vegetables on an oven proof tray and roast until tender.
5. Place chickpeas on a tray and roast in the oven for 15 minutes then allow to cool, once cooled place in blender and blitz with lemon juice, parmesan, basil and olive oil.
6. Place the cous cous in a bowl and soak as per instructions. Using a fork fluff the cous cous
these challenges, Bidfood launched Caterers Campus, an online learning platform exclusive to Bidfood customers, taking the hard work out of supporting your team – so you have more time to focus on your residents.
Our Peruvian roasted chicken and cous cous is just one of our many recipes created by our care sector Culinary Development Chefs. Check out our diabetes brochure for more recipes, support and advice and our weekly menu cycle for diabetic care.
up and then mix the cooked Mediterranean vegetables through it.
7. Slice the chicken and place on top of your cous cous, then drizzle over the pesto.
We’d love to hear from you on how your business is progressing in 2025. Specifically, any new ideas you’ve implemented, any ways you are making additional revenue, your sustainability initiatives and your plans for the rest of the year – we know that a lot of you are doing inspiring things every day in your businesses and we want to give you the opportunity to shout about it.
Please reach out to jamesd@cimltd.co.uk for the opportunity to be featured in Care Home Magazine. www.carehomemagazine.co.uk
INSPECTION
CiUK is the only Registered Inspection Body in the UK and will undertake your inspection professionally and comprehensively to all applicable standards. This is much more than just a ‘mock inspection.
REPORT
The CiUK report is confidential and will provide a complete analysis of all compliant and non-compliant aspects of the care home. All evidence is available to the customer and supported by source data to improve the care home.
ACTION PLAN
The action plan contains detailed information to correct all non-compliances that can be used as they are or added to the home’s action plan.
SUPPORT
The CiUK team will provide advice, information, and documents to support the care home in continuous improvement and resolving non-compliance after the inspection.
only Registered and Accredited Inspection Body for Care Homes in the UK.
