The Carer's Care Show Birmingham Showcase

The Carer's

Care Show Birmingham Showcase

PAGE 2 | THE CARER | CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW

Supporting Care Through Change: What to Expect at Care Show Birmingham 2026 The social care sector continues to navigate funding pressures, workforce shortages, evolving regulation and rapid advances in technology. That's why bringing the sector together has never been more important. On 7–8 October 2026, Care Show Birmingham returns to the NEC Birmingham, bringing together the people, insights and innovations helping to support care through change.

As the UK's leading event for the care community, Care Show Birmingham brings together practical learning, the latest innovations and thousands of care professionals. Whether you're an owner, director, registered manager or care professional, you'll leave with ideas, inspiration and valuable new connections.

When the exhibition closes on day one, the excitement continues with the return of Care Sector's Got Talent, hosted at the Care Show for the very first time. This much-loved evening event promises entertainment, networking and the chance to celebrate the incredible personalities that make the care sector so special.

DISCOVER THE LATEST INNOVATIONS Beyond the conference programme, visitors can explore more than 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services and technologies supporting care providers.

From digital care planning and AI-powered solutions to recruitment, compliance, facilities management and resident wellbeing, the exhibition provides a unique opportunity to compare suppliers, experience live demonstrations and speak directly with the organisations driving innovation across the sector.

PRACTICAL LEARNING FOR TODAY'S CARE LEADERS With more than 200 expert speakers delivering an extensive CPDaccredited conference programme, Care Show Birmingham focuses on providing practical advice. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions and solution-focused sessions, delegates will hear directly from sector leaders, regulators and providers tackling the biggest issues affecting care today.

This year's programme centres around five key themes: • Future of care • Workforce sustainability • Funding pressures • Compliance and regulation • Technology and digital transformation

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

The conference also welcomes an impressive line-up of speakers, including Chris Badger, Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care at CQC; Sarah McClinton, Chief Social Worker from the Department of Health and Social Care; Jeremy Richardson, CEO of Avery Healthcare; Raina Summerson, Group CEO of Agincare; Nitesh Somani, CEO of Kara Healthcare; Nye Brown, CEO of Hallmark Luxury Care Homes; Amrit Dhaliwal, CEO of Walfinch; and Baroness Glenys Thornton, Chair of the Social Care Institute of Excellence.

Care Show Birmingham brings together people from every corner of the sector because some of the best ideas don't come from presentations - they come from conversations. Whether that's with a speaker, another provider or an exhibitor, every discussion has the potential to spark something you can take back to your organisation.

Join us at the NEC Birmingham on 7–8 October 2026 and be part of the conversations shaping the future of care. Register for your free pass today: https://forms.reg.buzz/care-show-birmingham-2026/carer

NEW FOR 2026 This year's event introduces several exciting new features designed specifically for senior leaders and business owners.

The brand-new Owners' & Directors' Forum has been created exclusively for strategic decision-makers. Dedicated to the realities of running a care business, the theatre explores everything from occupancy and commissioning to investment, business growth, funding challenges and long-term sustainability. It offers high-level content tailored specifically to those responsible for leading care organisations through change.

Alongside the forum, visitors can take advantage of the new Care Business Clinics. These informal drop-in sessions give care leaders the opportunity to speak directly with some of the sector's most experienced business experts, ask pressing questions and gain practical advice from professionals who have successfully built and grown care businesses themselves.

Don’t Let Cyber Criminals Catch Your Care Team Off Guard

AI is making scams harder to spot A member of staff receives an email that appears to come from a regular supplier. At first glance, everything looks familiar: the logo, the wording and the request to update payment details, reset a password or open a document before the end of the day.

A few years ago, staff may have spotted warning signs such as poor spelling, odd formatting or a message that did not sound quite right. Now, AI tools can help criminals create convincing emails, fake documents and messages in seconds, making scams look more professional, personal and relevant to a care setting.

A single click could affect care records, staff rotas, payroll, medication information, family communications or confidential resident data. With care homes now using more digital systems — from care records

SEE US ON STAND F45

and eMAR to staff platforms, shared devices and video calls — there are more places where information needs to be protected.

TRAINING TURNS AWARENESS INTO ACTION This is not a reason to panic. Care homes do not need to become cyber security experts overnight; often, the most effective protections are simple habits built into everyday routines. Training and regular updates help staff understand how to spot something suspicious, who to tell and what to do next.

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, making it a good moment to refresh knowledge and upskill your team. Short reminders in handovers, team meetings and supervision can help reinforce everyday habits: pausing before clicking, checking unexpected requests through a trusted contact route, using strong passwords and individual logins, and reporting concerns early.

FREE SUPPORT FOR CARE PROVIDERS Digital Care Hub offers free elearning and an interactive Cyber Game for adult social care staff on data protection and cyber security, with practical examples drawn from care settings. Providers can also share NHS England’s Keep I.T. Confidential campaign materials to keep cyber safety visible throughout October and beyond.

Providers looking for practical, judgement-free support can also contact Digital Care Hub about a free Digital Health Check. It can help identify what is working well, spot gaps early and provide clear recommendations to strengthen your approach.

And keep an eye out: new training resources are coming soon to help staff learn on the job.

Find out more: www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/cyber-security

The Carer is published by RBC Publishing Ltd, 3 Carlton Mount, 2 Cranborne Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5BR. Contributions are welcome for consideration, however, no responsibility will be accepted for loss or damage.

Views expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or the editorial team.Whilst every care is taken when compiling this publication to ensure accuracy, the publisher will assume no responsibility for any effects, errors or omissions therefrom. All rights reserved, reproduction is forbidden unless written permission is obtained.

All material is assumed copyright free unless otherwise advised.

CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW | THE CARER | PAGE 3

Courtney Thorne Leads the Way in Wireless Nurse Call Technology for UK Care Homes In today’s complex care environment, we understand that choosing the right technology is about far more than functionality alone. For care providers, reliability, sustainability, and supply chain resilience are critical factors—especially when it comes to nurse call systems that play such a vital role in resident safety and day-to-day operations.

At Courtney Thorne, we are proud to champion the “Made in Britain” mark. For us, this is not simply about where our systems are manufactured; it reflects our commitment to quality, accountability, and supporting the UK care sector. By designing and building our nurse call systems here in Britain, we can ensure they are developed with a deep understanding of the real challenges faced by care homes, resulting in solutions that are practical, reliable, and easy to use.

Manufacturing in the UK also allows us to maintain close control over our supply chain—something that has become increasingly important in recent years. Global disruptions have highlighted the risks of relying on complex, overseas supply networks. By keeping our production local, we are able to offer greater consistency, shorter lead times, and improved access to parts and upgrades. This means our customers can rely on continuity, even in uncertain times, with minimal risk of disruption to their services.

Sustainability is another area where we believe local manufacturing makes a meaningful difference. By reducing the need for long-distance transportation and focusing on robust, long-lasting system design, we help care providers lower their environmental impact. We are committed to creating solutions that not only meet today’s needs but are built to last—reducing waste and supporting more sustainable care environments over the long term.

Of course, delivering high-quality technology is only part of the picture.

We know that ongoing support is essential. That’s why our UK-based technical team is on hand to provide expert assistance, from installation and training through to maintenance and rapid response when it matters most. Our proximity allows us to respond quickly and effectively, giving our customers the confidence that support is always within reach.

At Courtney Thorne, we believe that care homes deserve technology they can depend on—both now and in the future. By combining British manufacturing, sustainable practices, a resilient supply chain, and dedicated local support, we are proud to deliver nurse call systems that underpin safe, effective, and reliable care every day.

For more information or to book a free demo, visit www.c-t.co.uk or contact info@c-t.co.uk.

Quality Solutions for Care You Can Trust Running a successful care home means managing countless responsibilities every day – from delivering high standards of resident care to controlling costs, maintaining equipment and ensuring compliance. Having a trusted partner who understands those challenges can make all the difference.

Fairfield Care is more than supplier, we're a trusted UK partner to care homes, providing high-quality consumables, specialist equipment, servicing, training, and support. With more than 30 years of experience in the care sector, we help care providers improve efficiency, maintain compliance, and enhance resident wellbeing. Serving hundreds of care homes nationwide, we combine expert advice, reliable service, and innovative solutions to simplify care home management and enable teams to focus on delivering exceptional care.

Fairfield Care offers an extensive range of more than 3,700 product lines, covering care home consumables, medical and care equipment, furniture and furnishings, catering, housekeeping, laundry, washroom

SEE US ON STAND C01

and nursing essentials. With so much available from one trusted supplier, care homes can simplify purchasing while ensuring essential products are readily available when they are needed.

But Fairfield Care is about much more than supplying products. Its partnership approach provides dedicated account management, purchasing audits, product training, cost-saving strategies and ongoing support, helping care providers improve efficiency, manage expenditure and maintain high standards of compliance.

Equipment servicing and repairs are another important part of the offering. Fairfield Care's qualified engineers provide preventative maintenance, regular servicing and emergency repairs, with the company reporting a 99% first-time fix rate and a commitment to a 24-hour response.

Technology also helps make managing supplies and servicing easier. Through its online customer portal, care providers can place

orders, access training materials and monitor inventory, while the servicing portal provides access to call-outs, certificates, records, job histories and reports.

Sustainability is increasingly important to the care sector too.

Fairfield Care's Pure.V range provides a science-led approach to cleaning, offering eco-friendly, non-toxic products developed specifically with care environments in mind.

Ultimately, Fairfield Care's aim is simple: to take away some of the everyday hassles and headaches of running a care home, giving care teams more time to focus on what matters most – providing excellent care for their residents.

With its combination of quality products, expert support, servicing and genuine partnership working, Fairfield Care is helping care providers care better together.

To discover how Fairfield Care could support your care organisation, call 01234 324 530, email sales@fairfieldcare.co.uk or visit www.fairfieldcare.co.uk.

Visit Stand L20 at The Care Show.

PAGE 4 | THE CARER | CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW

Bring Activities to Every Resident with the Award-Winning Jolly Trolley Meaningful engagement is at the heart of outstanding dementia care, but ensuring every resident can participate in activities isn't always straightforward. For those who prefer to remain in their rooms, have limited mobility or require one-to-one support, traditional group activities can leave them feeling excluded. Little Islands has addressed this challenge with its award-winning Jolly Trolley – a fully mobile interactive entertainment system that brings music, reminiscence and meaningful experiences directly to residents, wherever they are in the home.

Developed by Tony Grundy, who has more than 30 years' experience in dementia care, the Jolly Trolley has been designed around the principle that familiar music, images and shared experiences can unlock memories, stimulate communication and encourage social interaction. Combining touchscreen technology with sensory lighting, high-quality audio and a wealth of interactive content, the trolley transforms ordinary moments into engaging activity sessions that can be tailored to individual interests and abilities.

Far more than a music player, the self-contained trolley includes WiFi, YouTube, Bluetooth streaming, themed reminiscence sessions from the 1940s through to the 1970s, bingo, quizzes, karaoke, sing-alongs, relaxation programmes, church services, exercise content and seasonal activities. A built-in microphone, amplifier, speakers and colourful LED lighting help create an immersive atmosphere, while the battery-powered design allows staff to take the experience anywhere in the home without the need for cables or permanent installations.

The portability of the Jolly Trolley has proved particularly valuable for delivering personalised care. Whether it's an afternoon tea session in a communal lounge, a birthday celebration, a reminiscence activity in a resident's bedroom or calming music for someone approaching the end of life, the trolley enables staff to adapt activities to individual needs. Families can even upload personalised music and images, creating bespoke experiences that strengthen emotional connections and support truly person-centred care.

Care providers across the UK have praised the impact the Jolly Trolley has had on resident wellbeing and engagement. Users report increased participation, improved inclusion, more opportunities for meaningful one-to-one interaction and countless moments of singing, dancing and shared laughter. The product has also received industry recognition, winning the Design in Mental Health Award for Innovation and earning widespread praise from care homes for enriching residents' quality of life.

As activity provision continues to evolve, solutions that are flexible, engaging and easy to use are becoming increasingly important. Designed, handcrafted and installed by the experienced team at Little Islands, the Jolly Trolley offers care homes an innovative way to make meaningful activities accessible to every resident, every day.

To find out more about the award-winning Jolly Trolley or to arrange a free demonstration, visit www.littleislands.org

Eden Alternative - It’s Time to Change the Way We Care 23 years, operating 4 Devon Nursing homes, has been pretty tough, as anyone in social care, knows, only too well. And if it was hard already, after 2024 budget, it's just got harder.

Anyway, at heart, I am just customer of Eden Alternative, and it was a stroke of luck to come across this whilst on holiday in New Zealand in 2009. It started in USA in 1994 and now runs in 22 countries.

The fact that I am now involved with this not-for-profit organisation (in the UK area) came about when one of the 2 main UK directors died suddenly just before Covid. But it's something I have run with for 11 years to help make 'vision' a reality, not a struggle. So, being both a customer and helping the admin seems quite natural.

It is a modern philosophy of care, but moreover, it's a programme that is straight

SEE US ON STAND E60

forward, tried and tested for 30 years and really works.

Its member care organisations generally become trainers for their own teams, and run it themselves.

The programme is run in person over 2-3 days or online 1 hr a wk for 7 weeks. You choose.

It addresses loneliness, helplessness and boredom and operates through 10 principles to underpin 7 critical domains of wellbeing.

Moreover, it's effective, transformational and really works. As residents, and team members wellbeing, matter so much , it's a must, in my opinion.

Geoffrey Cox Southernhealthcare.co.uk eden-alternative.co.uk

SEE US ON STAND B13

CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW | THE CARER | PAGE 5

From Analogue to Action: Rethinking Digital Nurse Call for Better Care

By Stuart Barclay, healthcare technology specialist at Syndora Alto (https://syndoraalto.com) The analogue-to-digital transition in health and social care is not simply a technology refresh. It is a chance to rethink how help is requested, how staff respond, and how care is coordinated across a home.

Too often, procurement still begins with a like-for-like mindset: replace the old panel, keep the old workflow, and hope for a better result. But digital nurse call should not be bought as a newer version of an old problem. It should be purchased as part of a wider care model that improves visibility, response, accountability, and resident experience.

cation tools, the result is less duplication and faster decision-making. When systems do not connect, staff are

START WITH THE OUTCOME

plier relationship should include responsive support, practical training, and a willingness to adapt as the home’s

Before comparing systems, providers should define the problem they are trying to solve. Is the issue slow response times, poor escalation, noisy environments, duplicated paperwork, or a lack of oversight? The right solution should be judged against those out-

needs change. In digital care, support is not an extra service; it is part of the product.

comes, not against a checklist of features.

This matters because modern nurse call is no longer just about a resident pressing a button and a sounder going off. In better-designed systems, alerts can be routed directly to staff mobile devices, calls can be prioritised, and managers can see patterns in demand and response. That creates a more responsive and less fragmented way of working.

TEST IT IN REAL LIFE A presentation is not a demonstration. A brochure cannot show how a system behaves during a busy morning shift, when several alerts happen at once and staff are moving across different parts of the home.

That is why live testing in a real care environment is essential. Staff should be able to use the system, question it, and pressure-test it before any decision is made. If the workflow is clunky in practice, the promise of digital efficiency disappears very quickly.

left repeating tasks, chasing information, and working around the technology rather than with it.

For care providers, that means the question should not be, “What does this system do on its own?” The better question is, “How well does it fit into everything else we already use?”

BUY SUPPORT, NOT JUST HARDWARE Digital systems do not end at installation. They begin there. Any provider selecting a nurse call platform should think carefully about what happens after go-live: training, maintenance, updates, fault resolution, and ongoing optimisation.

Care homes need suppliers who understand the realities of the sector, not just the technology. A strong sup-

CHOOSE FLEXIBILITY OVER LOCK-IN The biggest risk in this transition is buying something that cannot evolve. Care homes are operating in a fastchanging environment, and technology that cannot scale or adapt soon becomes a constraint rather than an asset.

Future-ready systems should be designed to expand, integrate, and respond to changing needs without requiring a complete replacement every few years. That flexibility is especially important in a sector facing pressure to modernise ahead of the 2027 digital switchover.

A BETTER QUESTION TO ASK The analogue era encouraged a narrow question: does the system work?

The digital era demands a better one: does the system help us deliver safer, smarter, more person-centred care?

That shift in mindset changes everything. It moves procurement away from hardware replacement and

INTEGRATION IS THE REAL VALUE

towards care improvement. It encourages providers to look for visibility, integration, responsiveness, and long-

One of the biggest mistakes in purchasing technology is treating integration as a nice-to-have. In reality, it is central to whether the system adds value.

When nurse call works alongside care records, mobility devices, alarm management, and internal communi-

term support rather than simply ticking a technical box.

The homes that get this right will not just be compliant with the digital transition. They will be better equipped to use technology as part of everyday care, supporting staff and improving the experience of residents.

Serve in Style with Euroservice Trolleys Watch your residents' eyes light up when the trolley arrives! Whether it's a fresh-

ucts, or as snack and pastry trolleys for residents and visitors. Their elegant

ly brewed cup of tea, an afternoon treat or a favourite drink, an attractive service

appearance helps create a more welcoming, homely environment while supporting

trolley can transform everyday refreshments into a memorable part of the day.

person-centred care through flexible, accessible service.

Euroservice's British-made trolleys combine style with practicality, offering a

With more than 40 years' experience manufacturing high-quality trolleys in the

durable alternative to traditional metal trolleys while being suitable for cleaning

UK, Euroservice offers an extensive range for the care sector, including tea, drinks,

with antibacterial sprays.

dessert, chilled and clearing trolleys, alongside bespoke options tailored to individ-

Beyond food and drink service, Euroservice trolleys provide care homes with a

ual care home requirements. Combining robust construction with attractive design,

versatile solution that can enhance both resident wellbeing and operational effi-

they are built to enhance daily service while complementing the surroundings of

ciency. When not being used for meal or beverage service, they can be quickly

modern residential and nursing homes.

repurposed as mobile vending stations offering toiletries and personal care prod-

Visit the website at www.euroservice-uk.com to see the full range.

Manufactured in the UK

Freephone: 0800 917 7943 www.euroservice-uk.com sales@euroservice-uk.com

PROVIDING PRACTICAL AND STYLISH TROLLEYS TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS Watch your resident's eyes light up when the beautiful tea trolley arrives! Euroservice trolleys can also be used as a vending trolley or to sell personal care products to residents. How about a delicious snack/pastry trolley or even a drinks trolley for that afternoon tipple?

Your lovely trolley could do so much for you and your residents!

Euroservice trolleys are an attractive and practical alternative to clinical aluminium trolleys given that antibacterial spray can be used freely to sanitise them.

Get in touch with our friendly, experienced sales team

Visit the website at

www.euroservice-uk.com to see the full range.

SEE US ON STAND F62

T SI N 8 VI O B6 S U ND A ST

Reaching the Heart of the Care Sector

Are you passionate about the latest developments in residential and nursing care?

THE CARER is the trusted, independent publication that keeps care home professionals informed, inspired, and empowered.

Bi-Monthly in Print complemented by the sector’s ONLY weekly digital title!

• Industry News & Insights – Stay ahead with expert analysis and sector updates • Best Practice & Compliance – Essential guidance for care providers • Innovations & Trends – Discover new technologies and solutions • In-Depth Features – Practical guidance from leading industry experts

Sign up for FREE today!

Visit www.thecareruk.com

Join the 20,000 Adult Social Care Professionals who receive The Carer Digital directly into their inboxes each and every Wednesday!

ADVERTISE WITH US – Showcase your brand to the care sector’s key decision-makers! Call 01202 552333 today “Putting Suppliers in Front of Buyers since 2000”

CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW | THE CARER | PAGE 7

Your Sector. Your Stories.

Your Publication.

Why a dedicated trade publication still matters — in print and in your pocket that matters. A feature in a trusted trade magazine holds weight — with operators and staff who feel their work has been recognised in a tangible, lasting way.

You can't pin a tweet to the noticeboard.

NEWS ON THE GO — THE DIGITAL ADVANTAGE Of course, print's virtues don't diminish what digital does uniquely well. A digital edition travels with you. It lands in your inbox the moment it's published. It can be shared with a colleague in seconds, forwarded to a board member, or pulled up during a meeting to settle a question about sector benchmarks.

Digital publishing also means the news cycle doesn't wait for the next print run. Sector developments — a consultation closing, a new inspection framework, an urgent staffing bulletin — can be covered in real time. Multimedia content, embedded links to guidance documents, and searchable archives turn a publication into a living resource rather than a one-time read.

Together, print and digital aren't in competition. They're complementary — one for depth, one for speed; one for the staffroom, one for the smartphone.

SHINING A LIGHT ON WHAT'S GOOD In an industry as demanding and deeply human as adult social care, the rhythm rarely slows.

Rotas to fill, residents to care for, regulations to navigate, inspections to prepare for — the working day in a care home is relentless. So when something competes for your attention, it had better be worth it.

That's exactly why a dedicated sector publication matters. Not the general press, with its tendency to parachute into care only when something goes wrong. Not the social media feed, where breaking news and misinformation jostle for space. But a publication that exists solely for you — one that understands the pressures, speaks your language, and is genuinely on your side.

A TRUSTED SPACE, FREE FROM NOISE The adult social care sector is no stranger to scrutiny. Hardly a week passes without some national commentary on staffing, funding, or regulatory compliance. Much of it is well-intentioned; some of it misses the mark entirely. A specialist publication cuts through that noise. It curates what actually matters to care professionals — policy changes that will affect your residents, innovations in dementia care, funding announcements that could transform your service, innovative products and services from leading sector suppliers, and the honest views of people living and working inside the sector.

There's no spin here, no agenda beyond keeping care professionals informed and valued. That independence is rare, and it's worth protecting.

THE ENDURING CASE FOR PRINT Yes, digital is fast. Yes, digital is everywhere. But ask yourself: when did you last sit down, coffee in hand, and properly read something? Not skim a headline, not swipe past a notification — but actually read, absorb, and reflect?

Print remains rather “different” inasmuch as it slows you down, in the very best way. A physical magazine commands attention in a way a screen notification never can. It sits on the staffroom table and gets passed around. It sparks conversations between a deputy manager and a senior carer who wouldn't otherwise have had them. It ends up dog-eared on a desk, with a circled article someone meant to follow up on.

For the adult social care sector in particular, print carries a kind of legitimacy

Here's something that often goes unsaid: the adult social care sector is full of extraordinary people doing extraordinary things. The care worker who sits with a resident through a difficult night. The manager who builds a culture so strong that the team barely turns over. The activity coordinator who transforms a morning for twenty people who might otherwise have spent it alone.

These stories deserve to be told. Not just to counter the negative headlines, but because the people doing this work deserve to see themselves reflected — celebrated, even — in the pages of their own trade press.

That's what The Carer has always set out to do.

Alongside the essential coverage of policy, products, and professional development, we want to be the publication that cheers the sector on. Because if anyone deserves a little cheering, it's you.

YOUR VOICE, YOUR PLATFORM If you've launched a new initiative, achieved something worth shouting about, or simply have something you want the wider sector to hear — we're here. The Carer reaches care professionals across the UK in both print and digital, and we believe your good news is our readers' good news too.

Don't be shy. Get in touch.

This is your publication.

01202 552333

Follow us on X:

@TheCarerUK

sales@thecareruk.com

Follow us on Facebook:

www.thecareruk.com

Follow us on Instagram:

@TheCarerUK @TheCarer_UK

PAGE 8 | THE CARER | CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW

QCS Expands Care Sector Support Through Strategic Partnership with Weightmans Quality Compliance Systems (QCS) has announced a strategic partnership with leading law firm Weightmans, strengthening the support available to care providers as they navigate workforce challenges, new employment legislation and broader legal and regulatory change.

QCS, an RLDatix company, is the UK’s leading provider of compliance, care management and learning for the care sector, supporting over 335,000 care providers and staff across more than 7,200 care locations.

Weightmans has one of the largest specialist, full-service health and care sector legal practices in the country, with 200 sector-specialist lawyers acting for independent sector providers nationwide, as well as NHS providers and commissioners, local authorities, regulators and indemnifiers.

Through the partnership, QCS and Weightmans will provide access to adult social care-specific guidance, practical resources, specialist legal knowledge and care sector insight, helping care leaders, HR professionals, and service providers navigate the full range of legal and regulatory challenges with confidence, consistency and evidencebased support.

Nikki Walker, QCS CEO, commented: "As the adult social care sector continues to face legal, regulatory and practical challenges - including workforce pressures, changing employment legislation, evolving health and safety requirements and increasing regulatory scrutiny - managing people, compliance and operational risk has become more complex

than ever. At QCS, we're continually evolving our solutions to help providers meet these challenges and changes with confidence.

“Our mission has always been to help organisations deliver safe, high-quality care through confidence, consistency and evidence-based best practice. By partnering with Weightmans, we're strengthening that commitment, combining trusted compliance support with specialist legal expertise to give care leaders the practical guidance they need to make informed decisions, reduce risk and support their teams effectively.

“Together, we're creating an even stronger support network for care

providers as they adapt to an increasingly complex operating environment."

Ben Troke, Partner in Weightmans’ healthcare team, commented: “There has never been a more challenging environment for health and care providers, dealing with workplace pressures, changing legislation and an evolving regulatory regime, in a very tight financial climate, and under greater scrutiny than ever. Our collaboration with QCS is a step change in equipping care providers to better respond to these challenges head-on.

“Weightmans has a deep understanding of the health and social care sector, with a long-standing track record supporting regulated providers on the legal, regulatory, employment and commercial issues that affect care services every day, as well as dealing with acquisitions and disposals. Working alongside QCS, providers will now receive a full and enhanced provision of specialist legal and compliance support, when they need it the most.”

The partnership strengthens QCS's role as a trusted compliance and operational partner to the care sector, providing organisations with the guidance, expertise, and support needed to manage challenges and focus on delivering outstanding care. The company’s own AI technology, Lyra, is the latest innovation in the QCS platform, providing users with instant answers to policy-related questions, pulling together trusted data from 100 QCS care experts.

For more information, visit: https://www.qcs.co.uk/

Supporting Safer, More Hygienic Care Environments Maintaining high standards of hygiene and infection control is a fundamental part of delivering safe, effective care. For care homes, nursing facilities and domiciliary care providers, having reliable access to quality PPE, cleaning and hygiene products can make a significant difference to everyday operations and the protection of residents, service users and staff.

With more than 20 years’ experience, Gloveman Supplies has been supplying healthcare, sanitising and hygiene products to businesses across the UK since 2003. The company manufactures and supplies its own range of GLOVEMAN® disposable gloves, alongside a comprehensive selection of essential products designed to support care environments.

For busy care organisations, ordering essential supplies needs to be straightforward and efficient.

Gloveman's online VIP account provides businesses with access to negotiated pricing, invoice and statement management, order history, quick ordering and the ability to create bespoke product lists for multi-

ple branches. A tiered approval system can also help organisations maintain greater control over purchasing.

Alongside product quality and customer service, sustainability is another consideration for Gloveman. The company highlights its approach to sustainably sourced latex and says it is continually looking for ways to introduce more sustainable practices and reduce the environmental impact of its operations.

Gloveman Supplies also holds ISO 14001:2015 certification for its environmental management system.

For care providers looking for a dependable supplier of gloves, PPE and everyday hygiene essentials, Gloveman Supplies offers a comprehensive range backed by more than two decades of industry experience.

Visit www.gloveman.co.uk or see Stand C32.

SEE US ON STAND K21

SEE US ON STAND F20

PAGE 10 | THE CARER | CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW

Smarter Workforce Management: Supporting Better Care Every Day Care providers across the UK and Ireland are facing increasing pressure.

Rising costs, recruitment challenges, changing workforce expectations and growing compliance requirements all make it harder to deliver high quality care while maintaining efficient day to day operations.

As these challenges continue, more organisations are investing in workforce management technology to reduce manual administration, improve workforce visibility and give managers the tools they need to make informed decisions.

Today’s workforce management solutions do far more than record hours worked. They help care providers simplify scheduling, manage absence, support compliance and improve communication across the organisation, freeing up valuable time for managers to focus on their people and residents.

SMARTER SCHEDULING Creating and maintaining rotas is one of the most time consuming responsibilities for care managers. Balancing staffing levels, employee availability, skills and compliance while responding to last minute changes can quickly become a daily challenge.

Modern workforce management systems simplify the process through intelligent scheduling, automated rostering and real time visibility of staffing levels. Employee self service also allows staff to view their schedules, request leave and swap shifts, reducing the administrative burden on managers while giving employees greater flexibility.

BETTER VISIBILITY OF YOUR WORKFORCE Managing absence is about more than filling shifts. Without clear insight into workforce trends, organisations often find themselves reacting to issues rather than preventing them.

With accurate workforce data and reporting, managers can monitor absence patterns, identify recurring

issues and make better workforce planning decisions. This proactive approach helps reduce disruption, control costs and support continuity of care.

LESS ADMINISTRATION, MORE TIME FOR CARE Administrative tasks are an essential part of running a care organisation, but they shouldn’t take time away from supporting staff and residents.

By bringing time and attendance, scheduling, leave management and workforce reporting together in one system, providers can reduce manual processes, improve payroll accuracy and maintain the records needed for compliance with confidence.

The result is a more efficient operation where managers spend less time on paperwork and more time supporting their teams.

TECHNOLOGY THAT SUPPORTS PEOPLE Technology will never replace the people who deliver care. Its role is to remove unnecessary administration, provide better visibility and make everyday workforce management simpler.

As the care sector continues to evolve, organisations need solutions that are flexible enough to adapt to changing demands while helping them maintain the highest standards of care.

For more than 35 years, Softworks has worked with organisations across the UK and Ireland to simplify workforce management, improve operational efficiency and support better outcomes for employees, managers and the people they care for.

To find out how Softworks can support your organisation, visit www.softworks.com, email hello@softworks.com or speak to our team on +44 (0)1527 888 060.

Could Your Care Home's Infection Control Strategy Do More Than A Pulp Macerator?

PROTECTING RESIDENTS EVERY DAY Maintaining high standards of hygiene is a daily priority for care homes. With residents often more vulnerable to infection, the way care utensils are cleaned and disinfected plays an important role in protecting residents, staff and visitors, while supporting safe, dignified care.

IS IT TIME TO REVIEW YOUR CURRENT APPROACH? For many care homes, pulp macerators have been a familiar part of the sluice room for years. However, increasing pressure to improve infection prevention, reduce waste and control costs is encouraging providers to take a fresh look at alternative approaches.

Modern bedpan washer disinfectors help care homes maintain high standards of hygiene, while reducing waste and supporting more efficient sluice room routines.

RELIABLE HYGIENE AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON MEIKO's TOPLINE bedpan washer disinfectors have been developed for demanding care environments, where reliable hygiene and ease of use are essential. Trusted in healthcare and care settings across the UK and Europe, TOPLINE machines provide consistent cleaning and disinfection at the touch of a button.

Highly effective against bacteria, viruses and even C. difficile spores, TOPLINE helps provide reassurance that care utensils are being processed to consistently high standards. Built for long-term reliability, the machines are designed to support care teams day after day.

BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND YOUR BUDGET Reusable systems can help reduce the waste associated with disposable products, supporting sustainability goals while maintaining excellent hygiene standards.

To make investment easier, MEIKO SMARTPAY offers all-inclusive packages including service and support, helping care homes access proven infection control technology without significant upfront capital expenditure.

As care homes continue to balance resident safety, staff pressures and rising costs, many are taking a fresh look at how care utensils are cleaned and disinfected. For those considering an alternative to pulp macerators, washer disinfector technology offers a proven route to improved hygiene, sustainability and operational efficiency.

See the advert on this page for further details or visit www.meiko.com

SEE US ON STAND F60

SEE US ON STAND J55

PAGE 12 | THE CARER | CARE SHOW BIRMINGHAM PREVIEW

IVC Commercial Shows its Caring Side at the Care Show Birmingham Discover the affordable floors that show you care from IVC Commercial at the Care Show.

IVC Commercial is exhibiting at the Care Show Birmingham, the UK’s leading event for the care community. It will use the show to demonstrate how its European-made sheet vinyl floors can support the wellbeing and independence of care residents while delivering excellent long-term value, durability and ease of maintenance.

Jake Parks, national sales manager commercial, says, “As the UK’s leading event for the sector, the Care Show is a fantastic opportunity for us to spend time with specifiers and explain how our sheet vinyl floors can deliver the durability, safety and hygiene they need while also ensuring residents benefit from welcoming designs that help them to feel settled in their environment. We’re looking forward to meeting delegates and hearing from the sector on what they need from their choice of flooring.”

Through ranges with a highly durable and long-lasting 0.70mm wear layer that delivers class 34 perfor-

mance, IVC Commercial’s floors can withstand intense use, including from wheeled traffic such as wheelchairs, mobility aids and care equipment. They are also finished with Hyperguard+, a permanent PUR coating that resists stains and scuffs and makes cleaning easier. Selected floors include Sanitec anti-bacterial protection to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mould and improve hygiene. Specialist slip-resistant safety and acoustic specifications are also available.

Across all its collections, IVC Commercial delivers a wide range of natural wood designs that offer a homely, welcoming feel for care settings. With LRV available for all its designs and different planks sizes, grain effects and colours; they can be used to aid navigation and help residents to understand their space, while also creating a ‘sense of home’. Helping residents to feel calmer, IVC Commercial floors support their wellbeing and independence.

IVC Commercial, Stand M25, Care Show Birmingham, NEC, Birmingham, 7-8 October 2026 For further information, please visit www.ivc-commercial.com

Hetikal Brings Over 20 Years Of Clothing Identification Expertise To Care Show Birmingham For more than 20 years, Hetikal has been developing identification solutions specifically for the healthcare and care sectors. Born from the need for a reliable way to identify clothing in demanding healthcare environments, Hetikal developed its own patented clothing labelling system, designed to provide permanent, professional identification across a wide range of garments and fabrics.

Unlike conventional product-only solutions, Hetikal works directly with its customers, without distributors or third-party sales channels. This allows the company to provide not simply a product, but a complete service. Equipment is provided on loan, together with installation, training, ongoing technical support and maintenance, helping care homes and healthcare organisations use the system correctly and achieve consistent results throughout its lifetime.

When correctly applied, Hetikal labels are designed to withstand repeated industrial laundering without

fading, smudging or peeling. Their low application temperature also allows the system to be used across a wide variety of garments, including delicate fabrics, as well as shoes and slippers.

Today, Hetikal is trusted by over 2,000 care homes across the UK and thousands more across Europe.

At Care Show Birmingham 2026, Hetikal will showcase its patented clothing identification system, with particular emphasis on its colour labelling and full-colour printing capabilities. These solutions can help larger care homes and groups introduce greater levels of garment organisation and traceability, including visual identification by unit, department or service.

Visitors will be able to see the system in operation and discover how a structured approach to clothing identification can make day-to-day laundry management simpler, more efficient and easier for care teams.

See the advert below for further information.

SEE US ON STAND F01

SEE US ON STAND F03