The Carer Digital - Issue #242

Councils Facing

‘Make or Break’ Moment Ahead of Spending Review

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

Editor

Peter Adams

SPENDING REVIEW MUST DELIVER MORE THAN PROMISES

News that six in ten local authorities are not confident they can set a balanced budget next year should send a shiver down the spine of the care sector.

As highlighted in the County Councils Network’s latest analysis, councils — many, if not all of which are key commissioners of adult social care services — are staring down the barrel of unsustainable deficits.

For providers in residential and nursing care, this fiscal fragility translates into delayed decisions, underfunded care packages, squeezed fees, and ultimately, uncertainty in long-term planning.

Local authorities are not just sounding the alarm; they’re effectively saying the system is at breaking point. If councils can’t balance their books, then the stability of care provision across entire regions becomes ten.uous.

This isn’t just a numbers game — it directly affects care quality, workforce pay, and capacity to meet the needs of older and vulnerable people.

Against this backdrop, the Health Foundation has set out clear, evidencebased priorities for the Chancellor’s Spending Review 2025, which must be seen as a turning point — not just for local government finance, but for the care system as a whole.

Their message is unequivocal: stabilise adult social care, fund long-overdue workforce reforms, and make a meaningful start on long-term investment.

The Health Foundation warns that social care spending has failed to keep pace with rising demand — in fact, age-adjusted spending per person was 2.6% lower in 2023/24 than it was in 2009/10. That’s despite an ageing population and higher levels of illness and disability.

The Foundation estimates that meeting rising demand and cost pressures will require an additional £3.4bn by 2028/29, and even more — £6.4bn — if

access to care is modestly expanded by just 10%.

It’s also clear that changes introduced in the 2024 Autumn Budget — especially to the National Living Wage and employer National Insurance contributions — disproportionately impact social care providers, most of whom operate on tight margins and employ large numbers of part-time, low-paid staff.

The Chancellor must now do what successive governments have failed to: treat social care as core national infrastructure, not a local discretionary service to be managed on a shoestring.

Providers are already absorbing year-on-year real-terms cuts. Without substantial and sustained public investment, many won’t be able to carry on.

I do feel that the next few months will determine whether 2025 marks a reset — or another year of precarious firefighting.

I would also draw your attention to dementia charity Alzheimer’s Society’s Forget Me Not Appeal.

Unforgettable Frames sees the celebrities – who all have personal experience of dementia – opening up family photo albums to share intimate photos of their lives before dementia devastated their families, and their personal reasons for wearing their Forget Me Not badge.

Something I have often said resonates with me deeply since my mother suffered and died of Alzheimer’s back in the early 90’s. I too took the opportunity to open the family album and reminisce of happy times as a young man with my dear mother and we here at THE CARER are delighted to support this appeal in any way we can, so if you are planning an event, a “Forget Me not Tea Party” then please do share them with us, and we will share them with our many readers!

I would also encourage our readers to sign up for our bi-weekly digital newsletter at www.thecareruk.com and follow us on social media for all the latest news.

I can always be contacted at editor@thecareruk.com

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Councils Facing ‘Make or Break’ Moment Ahead of Spending Review

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

This dire warning follows the government’s proposed distribution of that money and increases in the National Living Wage and National Insurance contributions.

STARK CHALLENGES

A survey of 38 county and rural unitary councils by the County Councils Network (CCN) and the Society of County Treasurers (SCT) sets out the stark financial challenges facing England’s largest councils.

This year, councils are making an unprecedented £1.2bn of savings and cuts to services to balance their books. This is due to record demand for services and has been compounded by central government funding decisions.

The survey reveals that government compensation for the rise in employer’s National Insurance has covered just 40% of the costs of introducing the policy, while just three of these 38 councils received any of the government’s £600m ‘recovery grant’ (£20m) – which was heavily targeted at metropolitan councils.

However, the survey reveals cost pressures won’t ease up in county and rural areas – with surging demand and higher costs creating a further £2.2bn funding gap next year, which will have to be filled by additional government funding, council tax rises or service cuts. This revenue budget gap comes on top of an estimated £2.7bn in special educational needs (SEND) deficits, which are due to hit council budgets next March when a statutory accounting ‘override’ comes to an end.

“DOUBLE WHAMMY”

With those councils warning that further options for service cuts have been exhausted, six in ten councils are not confident of setting a balanced budget in 12 months’ time.

But the CCN says that the situation could be made worse if the Chancellor does not make more funds available, with councils in rural areas potentially facing a ‘double whammy’. That’s because the government plans to permanently change the funding allocations of councils, with the ‘review of relative needs and resources’ – due to conclude later this year – potentially redistributing hundreds of millions of pounds towards urban councils.

With rural councils losing over £100m in dedicated funding last year, county and unitary councils say a multi-billion injection of resources is needed to ensure that that these councils do not lose even more fund-

ing as part of reforms to be introduced next year, which would exacerbate their financial pressures.

£2.2BN SHORTFALL

CCN says that with councils already facing a £2.2bn shortfall next year, alongside billions in SEND deficits, any reductions to county and unitary authorities’ funding could lead to further cuts to local services and potentially trigger a wave of councils applying for exceptional financial support to avoid them declaring bankruptcy.

Therefore, the Spending Review is critical for the future of local services. The CCN says that councils need a significant injection of longterm funding for social care services to allow them to invest in and protect frontline services, alongside a sustainable solution to SEND deficits. CCN also says that the government must deliver an ‘evidencebased’ approach to funding reforms when it consults later this year, ensuring a fair outcome that recognises the needs of social care authorities in rural areas and a well-funded transition so that reforms do not lead to further reductions in income for these councils.

MAKE OR BREAK

Cllr Tim Oliver, Chair of the County Councils Network, said: “England’s largest councils head into the Spending and Fair Funding Reviews under considerable pressure and under a great cloud of uncertainty. The Chancellor’s decisions will make or break the budgets of county and rural unitary councils: in a year where we’re already making unprecedented savings and face a further £2.2bn shortfall in 2026/27.”

“It is almost unthinkable to imagine the situation getting worse, but a real-terms cut in the Spending Review for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Budget would be just that. For county and rural councils, it could be a double whammy, with any unfair changes to funding distribution leading to further reductions in their income.”

“With so much uncertainty as to what the Chancellor will do, it is no wonder six in ten county and unitary councils are not confident of setting a balanced budget next year. Funding reductions would undoubtedly make it worse for these authorities and lead to more service cuts and councils applying for exceptional financial support. It is therefore essential county and unitary councils receive a significant increase in funding and long-term financial certainty in the Spending Review and Review of Relative Needs and Resources.”

STABILISING ADULT SOCIAL CARE

Local authorities are facing unprecedented financial challenges, with increasing pressure on adult social care.

According to The Health Foundation almost 860,000 people rely on publicly funded long-term care, supported by a workforce of over 1.5 million. However, access to social care remains, they say, heavily means- and needs-tested, leading many to pay out of pocket, rely on unpaid family carers, or go without essential support.

With the Spending Review just one week away The Health Foundation says the Chancellor must prioritise the stabilisation of the current adult social care system.

It should also provide funding for planned workforce reforms and act as a first step toward the longer-term investment required for a sustainable future — especially as the newly established Casey Commission begins its work. The commission’s creation is a welcome indication of intent, but reform must be underpinned by a fairer and more resilient funding model.

Their recent analysis revealed that social care spending has failed to keep pace with rising demand and cost pressures. In 2023/24, ageadjusted spending per person was 2.6% lower in real terms than in 2009/10. Fewer people received publicly funded long-term care last year than in 2015/16, despite an ageing population and growing levels of need.

Meanwhile, unpaid carers continue to carry much of the burden. The UK already has one of the highest rates of informal care in developed countries, with carers more likely to face financial hardship and reduced employment opportunities.

FUNDING GAP

Further compounding the situation are new cost pressures stemming from changes in the 2024 Autumn Budget, including increases to the National Living Wage and employer National Insurance contributions. These disproportionately affect the care sector, which is dominated by part-time, low-wage workers.

Their projections indicate that without intervention, demand and rising employer costs will create a £3.4bn funding gap in adult social care by 2028/29. Expanding access by just 10% would increase this pressure to £6.4bn — an annual rise of 5.3% compared to 2023/24.

If councils are to continue delivering core services and meet the needs of their communities, adult social care must be front and centre in both the Spending Review and broader reform agenda they say.

How Community Gardening Initiatives Are Cultivating Connection, Wellbeing And Workforce Solutions In Social Care

By Paul O’Rourke, Managing Director, Next Stage Group

(www.nextstageyd.co.uk) outlines how gardening initiatives are an innovative way to cultivate connections with the wider community and respond to concerns across the sector.

As care providers, we face a uniquely challenging moment. Rising demand, concerns around social isolation and escalating workforce shortages are reshaping adult social care. To meet these pressures, we need to reimagine how services are delivered, placing empowerment and meaningful community engagement at the centre of our care models.

One area we have discovered to gain momentum is the use of gardening and outdoor initiatives as part of broader care strategies. We’ve established a community allotment project in Bury to foster social connection and build practical skills among adults in supported living. I’ve seen first-hand how these initiatives provide more than recreation, creating inclusive spaces that promote wellbeing, build community and open up pathways into the social care careers.

GARDENING AS PATHWAY TO WELLBEING, SKILLS AND INCLUSION

At its core, gardening is a simple and accessible activity. But within the context of care, it becomes a powerful tool to develop connections and a routine. For individuals in supported living, regular access to outdoor spaces and the opportunity to grow food or maintain green areas can foster a sense of autonomy and accomplishment that can be difficult to achieve in traditional settings.

Through gardening and sustainability workshops, adults in supported living and care can undertake vital life skills like organisation and teamwork. These activities provide a structure, encouraging mental and physical health benefits. Through hands-on learning, we’ve seen individuals build meaningful relationships with their peers and the wider community, gaining a sense of belonging.

ADDRESSING SOCIAL ISOLATION AND PROMOTING COMMUNITY INCLUSION

For individuals in supported living or care environments, inclusion means more than simply being present, it’s about feeling empowered to participate. Gardening in a community allotment offers a unique way to do this, creating opportunities to engage with others and widen their social network.

Tasks such as tending to a plant bed and choosing what to grow provides residents with chances to take ownership and see the results of their efforts, something can be difficult to facilitate in traditional care set-

tings.

Research from Mind UK supports these benefits, showing how engaging in outdoor activities can significantly improve mental wellbeing, reducing stress and anxiety. There have also been findings from The Royal Horticultural Society showing how community gardening promotes inclusion and reduces isolation, helping people develop relationships through shared experiences.

By embedding activities like gardening into everyday care, providers can create an empowering environment where individuals are supported to thrive as active members of their community.

A RESPONSE TO WORKFORCE CHALLENGES FROM THE GROUND UP

The impact of this initiative goes beyond individual wellbeing and forms part of a wider strategy to tackle the workforce crisis and create innovative routes into careers in social care. With an estimated 480,000 additional roles needed by 2035, we need new and inclusive ways to attract, develop and retain people.

Members of the local community volunteering at the allotment provides a valuable first step. This experience can spark an interest in care work and lead directly to training, volunteering placements, or supported employment within the sector. By opening doors for people who might not otherwise consider a career in care, initiatives like this help expand and diversify the workforce.

This approach also strengthens our existing teams. Shared activities like gardening can improve job satisfaction, while easing pressures on one-to-one support models. At a time when recruitment and retention challenges are intensifying, these approaches help staff morale and make care roles more fulfilling and sustainable.

If we are serious about building a resilient workforce, we must invest in creative models like this that bring people together, foster new pathways into care roles and make the profession more connected and rewarding for everyone involved.

SHAPING A MORE INCLUSIVE, COMMUNITY CENTRED FUTURE CARE

With the pressures on social care growing, traditional models alone aren’t enough. The future lies in services that are not only person-centred but also rooted in the community.

As providers, we have a responsibility to lead this shift – designing services that work on connecting people to their communities. Initiatives like the Next Stage community allotment show what’s possible when we invest in wellbeing and connection. By supporting projects that strengthen social bonds, we pave the way for a more resilient and responsive social care system. Now is the time to invest in models that support those we care for, our staff and the future of the sector.

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NIHR Research Programme for Social Care Awards £7.5m Across 14 Projects

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Research Programme for Social Care (RPSC) has awarded £7.5 million in funding to 14 projects from its first call.

The NIHR Research Programme for Social Care (RPSC) launched in July 2023. RPSC replaced NIHR’s Research for Social Care funding call to become a funding programme.

The 14 newly-funded projects include research on mental health support for young people, the use of data in social care, and social care support for LGBTQ+ communities. Institutions across England and Wales have received funding for the new social care research projects.

RPSC funds research that generates evidence to increase the effectiveness of social care. RPSC funded projects aim to provide value for money and bring benefits to people who need or use social care and carers.

The programme focuses on improving social care for both adults and children and encourages applications from researchers at all stages of their careers. Funding is available for a wide range of social care research topics and research designs.

Applicants in the devolved administrations – Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – are all eligible.

RPSC has two researcher-led calls, a series of highlight notices periodically and one themed call per year, the first call launched in September 2023.

Professor Martin Knapp, Director of NIHR Research Programme for Social Care said, “It’s exciting to see such a diverse range of new social care research projects funded from this first call for RPSC. Together these projects have the potential to support services and staff to improve the lives of people who draw on social care support and their carers.”

NIHR Research Programme for Social Care is accepting applications for the latest researcher-led funding opportunity. This call closes 25 June 2025.

14 FUNDED PROJECTS

• Understanding Care-Experienced Young People’s Mental Health Help-seeking Behaviour in England –University of Birmingham

• Unseen, unreported, unprotected: disabled Black African/Caribbean and South Asian women’s experiences of domestic violence and abuse in England – University of Central Lancashire

• ReCOgNising and SupportIng Distance dEmentia caRe (CONSIDER) – University of Greenwich

• Caring in death: Pilot evaluation of co-produced palliative dementia care resources for care workers who are hesitant to engage with death and dying – University of Kent

• Scoping the experiences and needs of carers (friends and family) of people living with suicidal thoughts and feelings in LGBTQ+ communities in England – London School of Economics and Political Science

• What is the extent, nature and impact of parental alcohol use on children’s welfare and need for social care services in Wales? A population longitudinal study using linked administrative data – Cardiff University

• Improving the support of people with substance dependence in care homes – University of Bedfordshire

• Understanding the Wellbeing and Support Needs of Carers of Parents with Bipolar – University of Lancaster

• Unmasking Social Care Inequalities: Using Routine Data to Enable Reablement Equity – The University of Manchester

• Social Care Linked Data Lab (CARE Lab) – Cardiff University

• LGBTQ+ Inclusive Home Care Provision – University of Kent

• Co-producing social and community support resources for family carers of people with psychosis (OSMOSIS) – City St George’s University of London and University of Surrey

• The implementation of hybrid child protection conferences in England: a scoping and practice development project – University of East Anglia

• Matching support to needs: A children’s social care RCT testing a standardised comprehensive assessment of the mental health needs of young people in care – University College London

The Growing Concern Of Sickness Absence: Addressing The Root Cause And Treating It

By Emma McGrath, Professional Support Solicitor at

Long-term sickness absence has always been a concern for businesses, but recent figures show that the number of people leaving the workforce due to a health condition is growing by 300,000 a year.

The new data revealed that 4 million people of working age are unemployed due to ill health, with an additional 3.9 million people suffering with health conditions that limit the type of work they can do, more than double the 2013 levels of 1.5 million people.

This has big implications for businesses, with potential impacts on everything from productivity and profitability to recruitment, training, and retention, as well as potential discrimination claims.

But with the right policies and procedures in place, you can support your employees back into the workplace and help reduce the costs to your business.

COMMON REASONS FOR LONG-TERM SICKNESS ABSENCE

According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the most common problems reported by people with long-term health conditions are mental health conditions like anxiety or depression - with 63% of employees citing poor mental health as the top cause for their absence and 76% of employees reporting that they had taken time off due to stress within the past year.

ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSE

With stress being a considerable factor for long-term absences, implementing policies and procedures to help prevent employee stress and burnout is key.

Engaging with your workforce and creating an environment in which they feel comfortable discussing their concerns, such as in regular one to one catchups, is crucial. Once you understand the pressures they are facing, such as workload or staff shortages, then you can begin to address them. This might be through recruiting more staff, offering flexible working or adjusting targets.

If you have the resources, you could offer a choice of benefits. For example, you could provide a variety of training opportunities, which would be more attractive to employees whose focus is on developing their career or offer perks such as gym memberships and additional annual leave, which could be preferred by those more focused on individual benefits.

In recent years, there’s been an increase in businesses implementing mental health first aiders who are on

hand to support employees with mental health issues.

MANAGING LONG-TERM SICKNESS ABSENCE

When handling each case of long-term sickness absence, there are some key considerations you should make to check you’re meeting your legal obligations and following best-practice advice.

1. Put a policy in place

There’s no legal requirement to have a specific long-term sickness absence policy in place, but it’s often a good idea. In it, you should set out things like how sickness absence should be reported, details around any payments, reasonable adjustments, the potential to gather medical advice and the process for handling long-term sickness absences.

2. Keep in touch with employees

You must keep in touch with absent employees but make sure this is done sensitively – it’s good practice to train line managers on how to do this in the best way. As well as more informal phone or email contact, you should arrange welfare review meetings to be held at regular intervals and/or following significant landmarks such as an operation or a consultant appointment. These can help you understand when they might return to work and how best you can help them do that.

3. Return-to-work process

You should have a formal return-to-work strategy in place for when people return to work after a long absence. Return-to-work interviews after every absence should be supportive and discuss ongoing adjustments where needed. It can be helpful for a long-term sick employee to come back on a “phased return”, if this is medically advised, building back up to their usual hours and duties over a defined period.

4. Consider any potential disability discrimination issues

You will need to make any ‘reasonable adjustments’ to support employees with their disability under the Equality Act 2010 – disability includes long-term physical and mental health conditions. This is why it’s a good idea to have provisions in your handbook, which make it clear that absence linked to someone’s disability will be addressed separately from other sickness absence. Discrimination cases have no limit on damages, so it can be very expensive to get this wrong.

5. Do a risk assessment

When someone returns to work, doing a risk assessment can help you decide on any reasonable adjustments needed to their work or work environment. Effective risk assessments of roles and/or individual employees’ needs can help avoid sickness absences occurring or becoming long-term. Make sure you collaborate with the employee on the assessment itself and any adjustments.

WHERE TO START

Long-term sickness absence is a complex area of employment law, but it has the very real possibility of expensive tribunal claims if you get it wrong. Employers need to ensure they remain compliant with the law to have the best possible outcome for both the employee and the business.

For more information and guidance, visit: www.citation.co.uk/resources/hr-and-employment-law/managing-long-term-sickness-absence/

Staff Member at Mobberley Home to Take Part in The Great British Care Cycle Relay to Raise Awareness For Social Care

Lynne Morrilly will be cycling 100km to raise awareness for social care. A staff member at a Mobberley home is set to take part in The Great British Care Cycle Relay to help raise awareness for social care.

Lynne Morrilly works as an activity coordinator at MHA The Willows and will be taking part in The Great British Care Cycle Relay.

Lynne is a keen cyclist and commutes to work and back every day on her bike.

She will be cycling from The Chocolate Works Care Home in York through Harrogate and Wetherby back to The Chocolate Works Care Home on the 13th of June 2025.

The Great British Care Cycle Relay is a monumental cycling event, in line with Care Home Open Week, that aims to raise awareness of social care in the United Kingdom.

Social Care TV

Social Care TV continue to fly the flag for highest quality online training for Health and Social Care, after unwavering commitment to excellence within the sector for over 25 years.

Their widely-used health and social care specific courses - produced and edited in-house - are expertly designed to make learning engaging, informative and, therefore, highly effective for learners.

Accredited by CPD, training with Social Care TV is quality assured, comprehensive and relevant.

As one of the leading online training providers in the health and social care sector in the UK, they supply training for local authorities, recruitment agencies, care home groups and other health and social care organisations.

Their feature-rich Manager platform has further been enhanced this year with the introduction of several new Manager tools designed to aid with compliance, reporting and trainee management. Features now available include:

• Compliance Dashboard with Traffic Light System

• Downloadable Trainee Matrix

• Custom Bundles

MHA The Willows provides general nursing and nursing dementia care for 61 residents.

Speaking on her training regime she said: “I cycle to work and back every day, but as I will be cycling around 100km at The Great British Care Cycle Relay, I have started to up my cycling.

“I am planning a trip to the peak district as it will give me some good practice on a hilly route.

“Cycling is very important to me, not only does it help my physical health, but more importantly my mental health.

“I am very passionate about social care and as I work in this field I am even more determined to help raise awareness.

“I do feel I signed up for the relay a little last minute, but I am looking forward to it.

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SCTV regularly release new and updated high-quality courses. Previews for all courses can be viewed at: Courses - Social Care TV (www.social-care.tv/courses/course-details)

To enhance their learners' experience further they have created free, comprehensive subject-specific workbooks which were rolled out across all courses this year. This unique addition provides excellent value and a fully robust training package.

SCTV are delighted to have won several awards over the last 12 months including:

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• ‘CPD Provider of the Year’ – The CPD Awards

• Social Care Training Provider of the Year’ - Corporate Livewire Innovation & Excellence Awards

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Their much-loved ‘Care Worker of the Month’ award recognises and rewards the selfless dedication shown by care workers across the UK and they proudly support the Care Workers Charity who aim to advance the financial, professional and mental wellbeing of social care workers.

SCTV believe that high quality training should be accessible to all and offer regular, free courses which include a digital certificate accessible via their website.

The company stands behind a clear mission and set of values which define their ethos and their dedication to both the Care Sector and those within it. These can be viewed at: Mission Statement and Core Values - Social Care TV

(www.social-care.tv/about/mission-statement-and-core-values) Social Care TV are a responsible business, committed to ensuring that their actions have a positive impact on their employees, customers, the wider health and social care community and the environment.

Above all, SCTV consistently strive to make a meaningful contribution to the wellbeing of those being cared for.

For more information please see: Homepage - Social Care TV (www.social-care.tv) and see advert on the facing page.

Government Launches Review of Care Home Visiting Rights Regulation

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has launched a comprehensive review of Regulation 9A—landmark legislation introduced in April 2024 to protect and promote the rights of care home residents and patients in hospitals and hospices to receive visits and be accompanied to appointments.

As part of the review, DHSC has issued a national call for evidence, inviting care home residents, their families, friends, advocates, care providers, and sector professionals to share their experiences of visiting and accompaniment since the regulation came into force.

A YEAR ON—HAVE VISITING RIGHTS IMPROVED?

Regulation 9A was introduced under the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 following extensive consultation. It enshrines in law the right for people in care homes, hospitals, and hospices to maintain meaningful contact with loved ones. This includes being visited at their place of care and being accompanied to outpatient appointments—unless there is a significant risk to the health or safety of others.

THE GOVERNMENT’S CALL FOR EVIDENCE AIMS TO ASSESS HOW EFFECTIVE THE REGULATION HAS BEEN IN ENSURING THAT:

• People in care homes, hospitals, and hospices can receive visitors of their choosing

• Care home residents are not discouraged from visiting others or going out

• Patients attending hospital or hospice appointments without overnight stays can be accompanied by a loved one or advocate

The review process will draw on survey responses, focus groups, and data from oversight bodies including the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, and the

Parliamentary and Health Services Ombudsman.

SEEKING VOICES FROM THE SECTOR

Care home operators and staff are encouraged to participate in the review on behalf of those they support. The survey explores experiences of visiting and accompanying both before and after Regulation 9A came into effect, how effectively the regulation has been implemented, and any challenges or concerns that have arisen.

While the survey is not intended as a formal complaints mechanism, responses may be shared with regulators for monitoring and oversight. Individual complaints should continue to be raised through providers, local authorities, or ombudsman services, as appropriate.

USING TECHNOLOGY FOR BETTER INSIGHT

To support the analysis of responses, DHSC will be using artificial intelligence (AI) tools under strict human oversight to summarise findings. However, the final review report will be drafted entirely by human analysts.

MAINTAINING CONNECTION AND WELLBEING

Regulation 9A was established in recognition of the vital role that contact with loved ones plays in the health and wellbeing of people receiving care. Its introduction followed heightened concerns about isolation and restricted access during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DHSC states that ensuring individuals can maintain relationships and support networks must remain a priority across all health and social care settings.

HOW TO TAKE PART

The call for evidence is now open, and all responses are anonymised. To share your views or find out more, email: visiting@dhsc.gov.uk.

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The UK government has made significant changes to the Skilled Worker visa route which will highly affect care companies and care workers.

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How To Spot The Lesser-Known Signs of Dementia In Your Loved Ones

Dementia is far more than just becoming forgetful and can impact the way you speak, feel, think and behave. With the NHS reporting that 1 in 11 people in the UK over 65 are suffering from dementia, how can you spot the signs in your loved ones?

To help friends and family help spot signs of dementia in a loved one, care expert, Michael Berkley-Blezard at the Elmfield care group home Old Sarum Manor, shares some of the lesser-known signs to keep an eye out for.

FIVE LESSER-KNOWN SIGNS OF DEMENTIA: NOT ENJOYING CERTAIN FOODS ANYMORE

“Sensory issues are not always recognised as dementia symptoms and as a result, are not often reported as such.

These sensory issues could be increased sensitivity to noise, changes to smells and also the way that food tastes which may cause a loved one to not to enjoy food they might have used to.”

SHUFFLING WHEN WALKING

“You may start to notice subtle differences in how your loved one is moving, such as shuffling instead of lifting their legs when walking. Trips and falls may also become more common. Additionally, they may start to struggle with spatial awareness and depth perception which can impact how they move around their surroundings.”

USING THE WRONG WORD IN A SENTENCE

“Struggling to find words is another lesser-known symptom of dementia. This can look like stuttering when trying to get a sentence out, stopping a sentence mid-way through or jumbling up similar words such as saying ‘jumper’ when they mean ‘jacket’. This is known as ‘aphasia’ and can also affect names not just generic words.

BEING LATE

“Losing track of time can be an early sign of dementia that can sometimes go under the radar. A clear sign that your loved one is suffering from this symptom is that they start being late to appointments and social meetings. It can be due to memory loss or an inability to read an analogue clock anymore.”

A CHANGE OF HANDWRITING IN CARDS

“Starting to have an issue with reading and writing, where the person hasn’t previously had a problem, is often an indicator of dementia. This could be seen through a change in handwriting in birthday cards for example.”

THREE COMMON SIGNS OF DEMENTIA: FORGETTING NAMES AND FACES

“Whilst dementia isn’t just forgetfulness, it is the most common sign that someone could potentially be suffering from dementia. It can also likely be one of the first signs of dementia when your loved one potentially starts forgetting the names and faces of other family members and their friends that they previously had no issues recalling.”

GETTING LOST IN FAMILIAR PLACES

“Your loved ones getting lost in familiar places is a very common sign of dementia, and it’s important to pay close attention to this as it can potentially be dangerous. Examples of this can include going to the shops and not being able to get home, or not knowing the way to other people’s houses, despite walking the same routes for many years.”

MISPLACING ITEMS

“Losing items around the house or forgetting where they store certain things, such as where they keep their crockery in the kitchen is a very common sign of dementia. One way you can help your loved one through this is by labelling drawers and cupboards to help them know where they keep certain items.”

Michael shares: “If you start to notice any of these signs in your loved ones, try and have a conversation with them about what you have noticed and suggest booking a doctor's appointment to discuss the symptoms. This will help guide you and your loved one with how to move forward.

“At this point, it is also a good idea to start having conversations on care options that are available and exploring alternative living arrangements. As your loved one's symptoms worsen and they struggle to do more and more, a residential care home may be able to give them the support and care that they require.”

First VFF Accreditation for AgeCare Care Homes

AgeCare Care Homes has announced that the first of its nine care homes to have achieved the standards required for the Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) is Millway House in Andover, where veterans will now benefit from enhanced person-centred care and support.

The aim of the VFF is to better support the practical, emotional and social needs of the Armed Forces community in residential care homes across England by providing training and resources to assess and improve the care they offer. It will help tackle loneliness and has the scope to deliver improved health and wellbeing outcomes for the 25,000 veterans living in care homes in England.

To achieve its Veteran Friendly status, Millway House was required to meet eight standards. These included noting Armed Forces status within care plans, addressing social isolation and signposting to support services, such as their local Royal British Legion branch and other charities that provide support for veterans or their partners.

Each of AgeCare Care Homes’ nine properties is undergoing VFF accreditation and Millway House is the first to achieve VFF status. Manager Claire Lousteau said: “We are delighted to be a VFF-approved care home. It’s a real honour to be recognised for our commitment to supporting the veteran community within our care home.

“We really enjoyed the accreditation process and it has already had a hugely positive impact on our veterans. We looked closely at how we could make our environment more inclusive and meaningful for them, and one of the first steps we took was placing poppy emblems on our veterans’ doors as a mark of respect and recognition. It’s a simple gesture but it has sparked many conversations among residents and staff.

“We’ve also developed closer ties with our local Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club and the Test Valley Armed Forces Champion. Both now visit regularly, and we’ve arranged an outing to the Breakfast Club. These visits have been a real highlight for many of our residents. For some, it has rekindled a strong sense of camaraderie and pride.

“One of the most heart-warming outcomes has been seeing new friendships form among our veteran residents. Several have discovered shared experiences and stories from their time in service, which has created a real sense of connection and community.

One gentleman told us he hadn’t spoken so openly about his time in the forces in decades, but now he looks forward to his chats with fellow veterans every day.

“Being part of the VFF community has made a genuinely positive impact, and we’re proud to continue supporting our veterans with the recognition and respect they so deeply deserve.”

‘Family is Everything’ – Veteran Gives Advice to a Happy Life on 103rd Birthday

William “Len” Evans, a resident at Holly Grange House Care Home in Nuneaton, recently marked an extraordinary milestone— his 103rd birthday.

Born in Aberystwyth, Len is the eldest of four siblings. A proud Welshman, Len has always embraced his roots—supporting Wales’ national rugby and football teams and singing with the Aberystwyth Male Voice Choir. Telling the tales of his life, Len said,

‘During the Second World War, I served in the Transport Corps, where I met the love of my life, Ann, in Halifax. We had two children, five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. After the war, I worked over five decades at BT, retiring after 51 years.’

To mark the special day, Holly Grange House held an afternoon celebration featuring a live singer, where Len joined in a rendition of Calon Lân. Later that evening, Len enjoyed a private family party in the home’s Tea Room.

Len was deeply touched to receive a signed card from the Wales Rugby Team, a pennant, badge, and book from the Football Association of Wales, and a personal letter from HRH The Prince of Wales, extending birthday wishes.

Known around the care home for his warm smile, love for the Welsh language, and cheerful nature, Len says the secret to a long and happy life is simple:

“Family is everything—and as long as you have them and your health, you will be fine.”

Helen Blundell, the General Manager at Holly Grange House, added, ‘It was an honour to celebrate Len’s 103rd birthday with him. He’s a much-loved member of our Holly Grange House family— always ready with a smile and a story.

‘We’re delighted we could mark this incredible milestone with a celebration that reflected the spirit of such a remarkable gentleman.’

Celebrities Launch Alzheimer’s Society’s Forget Me Not Appeal With Striking New Portrait Series

On Monday 2 June dementia charity Alzheimer’s Society, released a new photography series to launch its 2025 Forget Me Not Appeal which aims to end the devastation caused by dementia – the UK’s biggest killer, with nearly one million people in the UK living with the disease.

Alzheimer’s Society Ambassadors Anna Richardson, Gareth LockeLocke and Meera Syal CBE feature in a powerful and intimate series of images – Unforgettable Frames – shot by celebrity photographer Sam Riley.

Unforgettable Frames sees the celebrities – who all have personal experience of dementia – opening up family photo albums to share intimate photos of their lives before dementia devastated their families, and their personal reasons for wearing their Forget Me Not badge.

Anna Richardson, Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador and presenter of the Channel 4 documentary Anna Richardson: Love, Loss & Dementia, explained: “I wear my Forget Me Not badge for my dad, Jim. My memories of my dad are him being so vibrant, purposeful and really key to the community. Seeing my dad’s dementia get worse is just heartbreaking. Dementia is a struggle for the person with it and also for their family. I’m proud to wear my Forget Me Not and help shine a light on struggles that dementia can bring.”

Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador and TV personality, Gareth LockeLocke, shared a childhood photo of his mum Margaret, with him and his brother. Margaret was diagnosed with early-onset dementia at the age of 54. Gareth said: “My mum was an amazing mother and would do anything for us. Dementia is devastating and can be very isolating, both for the individual and their loved ones. I wear my Forget Me Not to show people that they’re not alone and that we’ll face this together.”

Actress and writer Meera Syal CBE, whose father Surinder lived with dementia, received support from Alzheimer’s Society before becoming an Ambassador of the charity.

Meera shared a photo of her with her father who died in 2018, and said: “Alzheimer’s Society was really invaluable in its support when we were going through my father’s diagnosis and after. I wear my Forget Me Not badge to honour his memory and let others know that there is support available.”

Corinne Mills, interim CEO at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “One in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia in their lifetime so it’s something that affects us all. The Forget Me Not flower symbolises solidarity and hope within the dementia community and this June we’re asking people to help beat dementia by donating to get your Forget Me Not and show what beating dementia means to you.

“Everyone will have their own reason for wearing a badge, it could be in honour of a loved one receiving life-changing support, or in recognition of the groundbreaking research shaping the future for those living with dementia.”

Marston Moretaine Care Home Celebrates Late Resident With Heartfelt Tree Planting

HC-One’s Blakelands Lodge Care Home, in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, is honoured to announce the planting of a magnificent magnolia tree in its back garden, a poignant gift from Sarah Cook in loving memory of her mother, a cherished former resident.

The tree, symbolising enduring connections, was planted in a location chosen by the residents themselves, ensuring its beauty can be enjoyed by all who call Blakelands Lodge their home.

Accompanying the magnolia tree, Sarah gifted a stunning stone birdbath, a tribute to her mother’s passion for feeding birds and her countless hours spent in the care home’s tranquil gardens. These heartfelt gifts serve as a lasting reminder of the deep bonds formed at Blakelands Lodge, where residents, families,

and colleagues create a true sense of community.

Sarah Cook, relative of Blakelands Lodge resident, said: “We’re really grateful for the care everyone gave Mum while she was at Blakelands Lodge, and it’s lovely still being able to come and say hello.”

Her words reflect the warm, welcoming spirit that defines Blakelands Lodge, where memories are treasured, and connections endure. The magnolia tree and birdbath stand as symbols of love, remembrance, and the vibrant life of Blakelands’ gardens.

Residents and visitors alike are invited to enjoy these new additions, which enhance the home’s serene outdoor space and honour the legacy of a beloved member of the Blakelands family.

Every donation to the Forget Me Not Appeal helps fund crucial Alzheimer’s Society services. In 2023/24 alone, the charity’s Dementia Support Line answered nearly 60,000 calls from those in need. A £20 donation could provide two weeks of essential Companion Calls for someone affected by dementia, while £50 could ensure families receive guidance from a Dementia Adviser offering vital support.

The Forget Me Not Appeal runs throughout June. Badges can be obtained by donating at alzheimers.org.uk/forgetmenotappeal or buying in-store at Morrisons from Monday 2 June to Sunday 8 June.

You can also support by hosting a fundraising Forget Me Not Tea Party to raise money for people living with dementia.

Throughout June the charity will partner with ITV to raise awareness of its support services, linked to the emerging Coronation Street storyline which has seen long-standing character Debbie Webster being diagnosed with dementia.

Whatever your reason, donate at alzheimers.org.uk/forgetmenotappeal to get your Forget Me Not and show what beating dementia means to you.

Overseas Workers Have Been A Lifeline – Tech

Isn’t A Substitute But Can Be Part Of The Solution

By Anisa Byrne, General Manager, Access Care

Earlier this month, the government announced plans to stop the care worker visa as part of new restrictions on low-skilled workers. It is estimated that the decision will cut these foreign workers by 50,000 in 2025. Instead, they plan to focus on enabling higher skilled worker migration and training people in the UK.

These restrictions will be devastating for the care sector. Overseas workers have played a pivotal role in maintaining and supporting the care sector and the decision will put even more pressure on an already stretched service.

And whilst the intention to focus on domestic recruitment and invest in upskilling people in this country is positive, especially if it leads to more recruitment in the care sector, sadly it doesn’t answer the fundamental issue of often low pay and poor social recognition. Concerning statistics

Looking specifically at the numbers, between 2022 and 2024, 185,000 care staff were recruited from overseas. At a time when vacancies were continuing to grow to over 155,000, and the only other option

was to recruit from within the UK. While hiring domestic staff always remains an important part of the solution, it can often take longer than recruitment outside of the UK and many care providers can’t afford to wait.

Imagine what the care sector would be like without 185,000 additional staff right now.

And unfortunately, the forecast shows it’s set to get worse rather than better. Recent research from Skills for Care highlighted how the demand for staff – to meet the needs of elderly and vulnerable people - is expected to increase to over 430,000 by 2035. This equates to 43,000 new care workers every year, excluding the current c135,000 vacancies.

The current pressures on staff and subsequent burnout have been well documented – the latest wellbeing survey from The Care Workers’ Charity showed how tough it is at the moment – and many people await care because providers are already short-staffed. With an expected 50,000 fewer care workers this year, providers will be under pressure to do more with less. This poses a serious question about what level of care is realistic and achievable.

A SOLUTION?

There is no silver bullet to this problem.

The recruitment and retention of care workers in the UK is a multifaceted and complex issue, and there isn’t a simple solution in response to government’s plans. However, there are practical ways to empower the workforce to help increase efficiency and productivity levels.

Solutions such as technology-enabled care systems can offer vital support to carers, for example, by monitoring individuals remotely and helping manage their care without the need for as many in-person contact points/visits. The support ranges from giving clients prompts and reminders to preventing falls and helping staff make predictive

decisions about future needs using analysis of an individual’s behaviour.

Additionally, intelligent rostering and workforce management tools can maximise the potential of the existing workforce by reducing or removing burdensome admin tasks. In turn, giving time back to staff so they can prioritise care-related and frontline work.

We all know that technology can’t replace the contribution of overseas care staff, but it can be part of the solution - there are great examples across the country that show how digital technologies are helping alleviate the burden on the sector.

It is also shown to help position social care as a respected and more desirable career choice, as people see roles being ‘modernised’ with the use of tech (such as devices and apps) that they’re so familiar with in other aspects of their lives.

GOVERNMENT ACTION

So, what next? We need government to consider the significant ripple effect of its announcement and act accordingly. Specifically, to introduce effective plans to respond to the additional domestic staff entries to the market and offset the reliance on international staff. For example, domestic recruitment strategies that help get ahead of the curve in understanding what this next generation of staff is looking for from employers and their career choices. And support for care providers to respond to this, including the levels of funding available for the sustainable delivery of care.

Likewise, government needs to consider ways to help providers scale the use of digital tools to help with efficiencies and attract more talent to the sector.

Without these steps, the new plans risk putting further strain on an already underfunded and understaffed sector.

Residents at Strathaven Care Home Step Into Contemporary Dance and Take On National Exam

Twelve residents at Collisdene Care Home in Strathaven have been taking part in an inspiring contemporary dance programme, led by local instructor Samantha Baird, and their journey is about to reach an exciting milestone.

Over the past few months, the group has been exploring movement and self-expression through contemporary dance classes held at the Glasgow Road care centre.

Using props, music, and storytelling, the sessions have encouraged creativity and promoted physical activity, confidence, and social interaction.

All the dance practice has led to the residents going through assessments by having their performances filmed at Samantha Baird’s Dance Studio in Stonehouse. The residents’ performances

will be graded in the Contemporary Dance category, with results expected in July.

Working with Samantha has brought fresh energy and creativity into the home. The dance sessions have shown just how much joy and confidence dancing can bring and how beneficial it is for everyone to keep learning and developing skills.

Rosie Brennan, activities coordinator Collisdene Care Centre said: “This has been a truly wonderful experience for everyone involved. The residents have thrown themselves into the sessions with such enthusiasm. These activities have been hugely beneficial and we’re all extremely proud of their dedication. We’re all holding our breath as we get through the final exams then await the results in July.”

Bournemouth Care Home Celebrates First Anniversary Of Its Dementia-Friendly Cafe

RMBI Care Co. Home Zetland Court, in Bournemouth, is celebrating the first anniversary of its dementia-friendly initiative, ZetCafe24. Launched a year ago, the café was created to offer a supportive and welcoming space for people living with dementia, their families and local care professionals.

Over the past 12 months, ZetCafe24 has become a vital community hub where guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, access advice from the Home’s Dementia Advisor and Frailty Team, and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Yvonne, daughter of a resident living at Zetland Court’s Dementia House, says: “ZetCafe24 is a welcoming place for residents, their families and friends; a place to meet and connect with others over a cuppa and cake, listen or sing along to the music.” Susan, whose husband used to live at the Home’s Dementia House, adds: “This café is a place where families meet up and friendships are made.”

Reflecting on the café’s success, Sue Wiffen, Deputy Home

Manager for Dementia, says: “Personally, I feel the café has helped people come forward for support in a relaxed and friendly environment. Carers have met each other and realised they are not alone; it’s okay to talk and say you need some help.

“Dementia can be a very isolating condition for the person living with the disease and those caring for them, so it is great to feel we may have opened doors for people who may have felt very alone without ZetCafe24.”

Held monthly on the last Thursday of each month from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, the café offers complimentary tea, coffee and cakes near Bournemouth’s famous beaches.

Zetland Court’s dementia-friendly approach extends beyond the café. Residents and visitors benefit from a wide range of activities designed to support wellbeing, including music therapy, reminiscence sessions using assistive technology, pet therapy visits and film afternoons. The Home’s extensive gardens also offer peaceful spaces for relaxation and social gatherings.

CASPA Calls for National Care Information Service to Drive Community Care Integration

The Care Software Providers Association (CASPA) has today published a new briefing paper titled “Digitally Integrated Community Care: Enhancing Outcomes, Coordination, and System Efficiency”, urging national bodies to prioritise the creation of a National Care Information Service as the first step toward delivering truly integrated, person-centred community care.

Building on the foundations laid by the Digital Social Care Records (DSCR) programme, the proposed Social Care Interoperability Platform (SCIP) could evolve into a nationally led solution that enables information sharing across a diverse range of care settings.

The paper highlights that many care software systems already meet high clinical, governance, and interoperability standards, and that the sector is ready to deliver integrated digital coordination—if the right infrastructure and policy environment are created.

TO THAT END, CASPA MAKES FIVE SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Establish a social care-led entity to host the National Care Information Service.

• Agree the first use case for shared information—such as improving transfers of care—and define the asso-

ciated benefits for people drawing on care.

• Roll out the National Care Information Service across the country and use this as a means to benchmark nationally and create a unified view of the national provision of care services.

• Secure care provider buy-in and community care pathways redesign via funding.

• Ongoing DSCR funding, IT support and DHSC mandating for Assured Suppliers.

The briefing positions these steps as a strategic opportunity to modernise care delivery, strengthen NHS resilience, and support more timely, coordinated and person-centred care.

A spokesperson for CASPA said: “Community-based care is the backbone of a sustainable, preventative health and care system—but it remains digitally fragmented. The National Care Information Service offers a practical, scalable, and inclusive route to change that, without sacrificing the choice and innovation that a plural market brings.”

The full briefing paper is available here: https://caspa.care/resource/digitally-integrated-communitycare-enhancing-outcomes-coordination-and-system-efficiency/

Dorset Care Home Residents Praised For Helping To Fight Food Poverty

Organisers of two Dorset food banks have praised care home residents and staff for doing their bit to help families in need.

It comes after Colten Care’s Castle View in Poundbury chose the Dorchester Foodbank and Food Share, based at Dorchester Community Church, as its main charities to support this year.

Among the latest initiatives, residents sold handmade greeting cards and second-hand books and held raffles.

These activities raised more than £150 which was used to buy dozens of items such as tinned fruit and veg, jars of cooking sauce, packets of pasta and rice, and cartons of juice, all requested by the food banks.

The items, laid out on a large table, were donated to Tracy Hughes of Dorchester Foodbank and Liz Meech of Food Share when the pair came to give a talk to residents about their work.

“We were blown away by the size of the donation and are so grateful for the support,” said Tracy. “It was heartening to know the Castle View residents are on board with what we are doing.”

Tracy’s comments were echoed by Liz, who added: “It was absolutely humbling to see the spread on the table. It is a privilege to develop our relationship with Castle View. Community support is absolutely

key to what we do. It means the world to us.”

Castle View resident Joan Edwards, who helped to present the food items, said after the talk by Tracy and Liz: “I didn’t realise how much food poverty there is in our area and that there is no let-up in demand for the help available from the food banks. They deserve our support.”

Fellow residents Doreen Webb, Sylvia King, Gwen Kenward and Jean Howarth also went on a minibus trip to the community church to meet Food Share volunteers and see first-hand how food parcels are made up ready for distribution to families. Parcels can contain a range of items such as fresh fruit, vegetables, bread, eggs, rice and milk.

Castle View’s Companionship Team Leader Hayley Legg said that one volunteer, Liz, shared a ‘touching story that truly moved us’.

Hayley said: “She spoke of a little girl who, on receiving milk, said ‘This will make me big and strong’. Another child was given a birthday cake donated by a supermarket, and she couldn’t stop jumping for joy. Her parents were in tears, overwhelmed by gratitude, as they had been unable to afford a cake for her birthday.”

Fulfilling Lives Of Cranford Grange Residents Living With Dementia

Since joining Care UK’s Cranford Grange in 2016 as a care assistant, Lisa West has progressed into her role as reminiscence coordinator, leading the dementia care unit with dedication, warmth, and innovation. Her journey from a carer to reminiscence coordinator reflects both her personal passion and Care UK’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting high standards in both residential and dementia care.

Lisa’s deep connection to dementia care began long before her current role. Even while working in the assisted living wing, she often volunteered for overtime shifts in the dementia unit, drawn to the unique challenges and rewards of supporting those living with the condition.

Now leading the home’s dementia floor, Lisa has helped transform the unit into a vibrant, responsive, and highly personalised environment. Working alongside the activity coordinator, Lisa has introduced structured activity planners that cater to individual preferences, whether residents enjoy lively musical sessions or quiet reflection in designated calm areas. “We have created different spaces to suit diverse needs. Some residents love music and dancing; others prefer sensory activities or simply a quiet place to enjoy a cup of tea,” she explains.

One of the most beloved additions to the home’s programme is the monthly visit from the Buttermilk Dance group. Residents can be seated or standing during the dance sessions, and it sparks joy and movement in even the most withdrawn residents. “It’s wonderful to see someone who barely moves lifting their arms, smiling, and joining in,” Lisa adds.

In addition to music therapy, residents benefit from sensory sessions and personalised items such as "rummage boxes" filled with tactile objects, switches, and memorabilia that encourage engagement and comfort. These boxes are regularly updated by team members based on what each resident responds to most.

End-of-life care is treated with the same compassion and attention at Cranford Grange. Through Namaste care – an approach combining sensory stimulation, touch, and emotional connection, Lisa and her team provide comfort and dignity to residents nearing the end-of-life. Lisa says: “It’s very hard work, but it’s also very rewarding, being with someone in those final moments, when you've built that trust and familiarity, is something incredibly special.”

The recent refurbishment of the home has not only enhanced the living experience but has given the opportunity to create new spaces such as a cinema, a quiet lounge, the Tatton Tea Room, a shop and a library. Lisa shares: “The care home now features life skill stations that evoke past routines – typewriters, telephones, and paperwork for residents who worked in offices in the past. These thoughtful additions have provided not only stimulation, but a reassuring sense of purpose for residents.”

Lisa’s leadership is marked by a deep empathy and an intuitive understanding of what brings meaning to those living with dementia. As she continues to shape the unit, her focus remains clear – creating a space where residents are not just cared for but truly understood, celebrated, and loved.

The Navy Veteran Who’s Giving Something Back To The Armed Forces Community After Leg Amputation

A Navy veteran who had his leg amputated during the Covid pandemic says the support he received from charities has inspired him to help others. Paul O’Byrne is now a volunteer phone buddy with the Telephone Friendship Service, which tackles loneliness and isolation, and is run by veterans’ charity Royal Star & Garter.

The 64-year-old was speaking during Volunteers’ Week, which is running from 2-8 June.

The free-to-use Telephone Friendship Service provides regular phone calls to veterans and their partners, and was set up to help tackle loneliness and isolation in the Armed Forces community. Paul is among a number of trained volunteers who offer friendly conversation and wellbeing support, acting as a lifeline for those who may have limited social interaction.

He has been a phone buddy since September 2024, and currently speaks regularly to six people – four Army veterans, one Navy veteran and a widow whose husband was a resident at Royal Star & Garter.

Paul was born in Dublin and came to the UK in 1976, joining the Navy and serving for 24 years until 2000, when he left having attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer.

He said: “Life was great. And then all of a sudden I was told in 2021 that I was going to have my left leg amputated. It was a very difficult time for me.” Thankfully, Paul received support from charities such as Royal British

The pobroll® is the invention of Pat O’Brien, a physiotherapist, Moving and Handling trainer, and Conflict Management tutor with over two decades of experience in care homes and nursing homes

Care home managers often face challenges in delivering intimate care while balancing efficiency and managing costs, particularly when these essential tasks provoke behaviours that can be challenging to safely manage. Traditional methods—especially for bed-bound residents—often lead to lengthy processes and frequent linen changes, driving up costs and consuming valuable staff time. The pobroll® provides a transformative solution that supports dignified care, achieves significant cost savings, and reduces the need for additional staffing.

Legion and Blesma, which help veterans that are amputees. When he saw an advert for Telephone Friendship Service volunteers, he was immediately interested. “I’m doing it because it was done for me,” explained Paul. “The amount of help I got from various charities when I lost my leg was unbelievable, and I just wanted to give something back.”

Paul, who now lives in Southsea, near Portsmouth, underwent training before he was all-set to have his first Telephone Friendship call. He remembers: “I’ve never done anything like this before and I was so afraid before making that first call. I had a script ready to help me, but I didn’t need it because the conversation flowed so naturally.”

With his confidence buoyed, Paul now regularly talks to Telephone Friendship Service users for up to two hours a time. He said: “I love our discussions, I love their stories and what I hear. They just want someone to tell their stories to. They're lovely but they're lonely, and they're all people that have problems, like you and I have. I class them as my friends, and I love to care for them. I get a lot of satisfaction from this.”

Paul added: “It was a very difficult time for me when I lost my leg, but the amount of help that I got from various charities was unbelievable. I recovered and I came out the other side, and I enjoy my life. Now I want to give something back.”

Sustainable Solution for Care Homes

The pobroll® is an innovative bed-bathing wrap specifically designed to enhance comfort and dignity during personal washing for individuals who require in-bed care. Centred on the resident’s experience, it minimizes distress by providing sensory comfort. Crafted with two layers of high-quality cotton-terry toweling and a waterproof layer in between, it delivers a soothing, calming experience while keeping the bed completely dry. Sized for a standard single bed, the pobroll®’s dual-layer design offers warmth and a sense of security and privacy, allowing residents to maintain comfort and dignity during bed-based bathing routines.

BOOSTING COST

SAVINGS AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

The pobroll®'s waterproof design enables caregivers to provide a complete wet wash without the risk of soaking the bed, minimising the need for frequent linen changes. This leads to fewer laundry loads, reducing labour and utility costs, as well as wear on linens. By reducing logistical tasks, caregivers have more time to focus on direct resident care, enhancing productivity overall. Additionally, reduced reliance on disposable wipes results in further cost savings and supports environmentally sustainable practices. With its durable, reusable design, the pobroll® maintains hygiene standards and allows for extended use across multiple residents. As care homes face increased pressure to adopt sustainable practices, the

pobroll® provides an effective solution that supports both economic and environmental goals.

REDUCING STAFFING COSTS AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Managing resident agitation—particularly for those with dementia—often requires specialised training in restraint techniques. The pobroll® significantly reduces the need for physical intervention by providing a warm, secure covering that alleviates resident distress. This gentle approach minimizes aggressive or defensive reactions, reducing the number of staff needed for these interactions. As a result, facilities can potentially lower staffing levels without compromising care quality, yielding substantial cost savings. Additionally, reduced dependence on physical intervention decreases training costs associated with restraint techniques. By simplifying the process of intimate care, the pobroll® reduces the need for specialised training, making onboarding smoother and lowering turnover-related training expenses.

ENHANCING SAFETY, COMPLIANCE, AND RESIDENT SATISFACTION

The pobroll® supports compliance with restraint reduction guidelines, helping facilities minimise documentation burdens and regulatory liabilities linked to physical interventions. This non-invasive solution improves safety for both residents and caregivers, fostering a culture of dignity and respect that boosts satisfaction among residents and their families.

CONCLUSION: A VALUABLE ASSET FOR QUALITY CARE AND COST MANAGEMENT

For care homes, the pobroll® represents a strategic investment, offering measurable savings by reducing reliance on disposable products, lowering laundry and training costs, and enabling efficient staffing. Most importantly, it prioritises resident dignity and comfort, setting a high standard for compassionate, personcentred care. For facilities seeking to enhance financial performance and care quality, the pobroll® is an invaluable addition to their resources. For further information, see the advert on page 5 or visit www.pobroll.co.uk

Digital Platform Helps Lancashire and South Cumbria Residents

Make End-of-Life Plans

consider them.”

Nationally, the Care Quality Commission has highlighted the need for a consistent approach to advance care planning, and MyWishes was identified by the local health and social care professionals as a practical solution.

Via the platform, residents can share care plans for their health and social care preferences, and document what they’d like to happen with both their physical property and their digital content when they die.

They can also document their funeral wishes, write or record a self-authored obituary, make necessary plans and leave goodbye messages to family and friends in the event of their death.

A localised version of MyWishes has been launched across the region thanks to NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) in a drive to improve advance care planning.

The website empowers residents to make plans for their future health and social care, and supports them to communicate these with those important to them. It facilitates writing and documentation of their wishes for their possessions and digital accounts when they die.

It can also be used to document and share advance care decisions and end-of-life choices.

Dr Lindsey Dickinson, an associate medical director at the ICB, is the senior responsible officer for commissioning high quality palliative and end of life care for people in Lancashire and South Cumbria. She said: “Not everyone knows or has given thought to what will happen to them at the end of their life, but by planning these important choices in advance, it can support people to have the end to their life that they planned for and removes some of the pressure that falls onto their families after they die.

“MyWishes is free and really easy to access, and is supported by local charities. It simply allows people to consider their options and choices while they are able to do so, and before they lose the capacity to

Dr Dickinson added: “Making end-of-life plans may not be an easy subject to approach, but by offering this platform for free, we can make it as easy as possible.

“You can plan as much or as little as you feel comfortable with, and any documents created can be printed off to keep at home and shared with loved ones and health and social care professionals who may be involved in your care plan.

“We would encourage anyone of any age to take a look at the website and share any plans that they feel their family or carers would need to be aware of.”

To access MyWishes and find out more, visit www.mywishes.co.uk

PROVIDING PRACTICAL AND STYLISH TROLLEYS TO SUIT

The Importance of the Welsh Active Offer in Delivering

Truly Person-Centred Care Within Care Homes in Wales

By Bethan Evans, CEO of My Choice Healthcare

The care home industry is designed to support those in need with the care they require to improve their quality of life, and this can cover a whole spectrum of circumstances.

While taking care of residents’ health and medical needs is of course a priority, those working in the industry should also take the time to recognise and nurture the person behind the diagnosis or disability.

Quality of life is about more than standard measures of physical ability or comfort, and encompasses recognition of individual needs, personality traits and backgrounds. This person-centred approach puts individuals at the heart of planning and monitoring their care and development, thus ensuring the service is tailored to their unique needs and achieves the best possible outcomes.

Working collaboratively with residents and their families means care providers can really get to know those they are caring for and gain a deeper understanding of what’s important to them, their culture, lifestyle and values, and can therefore provide a more empathetic, tailored and overall, a better-quality of support.

Effective communication is critical is building these relationships, and in the case of Welsh care homes, striving to deliver on the Active Offer can go a long way in building a sense of trust and belonging. That said, what is the Welsh Active Offer and what role can it play in a care home environment?

WHAT IS THE WELSH ACTIVE OFFER?

As part of the Welsh government’s ‘More than just words’ strategic framework for promoting the Welsh language in health and social care, the Active Offer is a key element of the Welsh Language Standards that is designed to make the Welsh language as visible and heard as the English language.

The Welsh Active Offer means care services are provided in Welsh without a resident having to ask for this specifically, meaning the language is incorporated into the home’s operations and no assumptions are made about Welsh speakers’ ability, or desire, to speak English. This is rooted in the belief that if a care home resident is a Welsh

speaker, being able to use their own language should be a core component of their care, and not an afterthought. This is even more important if an individual becomes unwell, as they more often rely more strongly on their (first) language of choice.

Recent reports show that the percentage of people able to speak Welsh is the lowest recorded in more than eight years, sitting at around 27.7 per cent, but this does not mean that the importance of communicating with people in their first language becomes any less important.

The Welsh Active Offer is hugely important if we are to deliver the care residents in Wales want, deserve and should rightly expect. We need a culture change to incorporate this initiative and take the responsibility away from patients having to request this service as an ‘add on’.

PROVIDING SUPPORT AND COMFORT

It can be easy to overlook the power of language, particularly in busy, stressful environments such as care homes. But studies have shown that communicating in a patient’s mother tongue can significantly improve the quality of care in a healthcare setting and reduce any miscommunication or related suffering.

The Welsh Active offer and person-centred care are designed to create the right environment to empower residents to feel in control, but if there is any form of communication breakdown, this can be difficult to achieve.

Residents may need to discuss sensitive topics with their care providers, and this is much easier to do in a language they are confident in and comfortable with. Having Welsh speaking staff on hand can put residents at ease in challenging situations, giving them the confidence needed to express themselves.

Anticipating the needs of Welsh speakers, instead of waiting for them to ask for a Welsh service, can also build a sense of trust in the care they are receiving.

KEEPING CULTURE ALIVE

Moving into a care home can often be a culture shock, particularly for elderly people who have been used to a lifetime of independence in their own home.

Adjusting to new surroundings, routines and people can be difficult and disorientating, and many residents benefit from familiar touches that help to anchor and settle them into a new environment.

Considering a resident’s culture and background is key here, and providing access to activities that promote Welsh language and culture puts them at the heart of the service. For instance, providing books in

the Welsh language, singing or listening to Welsh songs or offering opportunities to celebrate key sporting events and national days can help residents keep that crucial bond with their culture, going beyond basic care provisions.

This may seem like a simple step, but providing this access can go a long way to helping care home residents feel a sense of belonging and in nurturing their individual personalities.

REDUCING ISOLATION

Loneliness and isolation is sadly on the rise amongst people of all ages, and according to the National Survey for Wales, around 91,000 of older people in Wales feel ‘consistently’ lonely.

Living in a care home can unfortunately be an isolating experience for some residents who move away from the family and friends they are used to spending their time with, and who may find it difficult to forge new bonds with fellow residents.

Being unable to communicate in their preferred language will inevitably make this feeling of isolation more prominent, and it’s up to care providers to make sure all residents feel included and valued. Even if all staff aren’t fluent in Welsh, learning a few words and phrases can bring joy and provide comfort to those Welsh speakers who may feel lonely.

It’s also important to ensure that all signage and information throughout the home is provided in Welsh to set residents up for the best possible outcomes. Failing to do so not only runs the risk of further isolating residents, but could potentially be dangerous.

Putting people at the heart of the care service is all about recognising them for the person they are, and language is a huge part of this.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Delivering truly person-centred care in Welsh care homes may require some adjustments, but the benefits are clear. Incorporating the Welsh Active Offer not only allows care providers to learn more about their residents and provide a better service, but also empowers residents to take control of their care and quality of life.

Language barriers can lead to isolation, a loss of culture, and damage to confidence. By taking the time and initiative to accommodate Welsh speakers, better outcomes can be achieved for all.

Providing high-quality care is about more than taking care of residents’ physical and emotional needs, and by respecting and supporting their unique personalities, cultures and backgrounds, we can work together to create the service they deserve.

Dobbies Community Gardens Helps Paternoster

House Care Home Bloom with £1,200 Donation

Residents at Paternoster House, a care home in Cirencester run by The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT), are delighted by a generous £1,200 donation from Dobbies Community Gardens’ initiative.

The home, which takes great pride in its extensive and much-loved outdoor spaces, was chosen by the local Cirencester store, after applying to the national initiative. Earlier this month, Activities Co-ordinator Sharon Dewsbury, and long-term Paternoster House volunteers Daphne and Carol Smith attended a celebratory event at the Dobbies store, where representatives from five community organisations were invited to hear more about the initiative and receive awards.

Phil Brown, from Dobbies, presented the vouchers and praised all applicants for their community contributions. Paternoster House was chosen to be the lead recipient, receiving the largest voucher along with a goodie bag. All other organisations also received smaller vouchers and thank you gifts.

Sharon said: “We applied to the Dobbies Community Gardens Initiative for support with our entry into this year’s Trust in Bloom competition. Our garden is already a beautiful space, but we want to include

more plants, garden ornaments and furniture for our residents to sit and enjoy the surroundings. With this donation, we plan to enhance our outdoor areas with raised beds, sensory plants and new seating to encourage both social interaction and physical activity.”

Home Manager, Lindsey Worthy, added: “We are thrilled to receive this donation. It will make a meaningful difference to our residents, who are already involved in planning how to use it. We’re fortunate to receive strong support from our local community, including donations and the ongoing commitment of our wonderful volunteer gardeners. We’re excited about this year’s Trust in Bloom competition and, thanks to Dobbies, we’re confident our garden will be extra special.”

The Dobbies Community Gardens’ initiative supports projects that help bring people together and improve wellbeing through gardening. Trust in Bloom is OSJCT’s annual gardening competition, encouraging residents, volunteers, and employees across its 62 care homes to work together in creating vibrant, therapeutic outdoor spaces that enhance wellbeing and community spirit.

Residents At East Grinstead Care Home Enjoy Sunshine, Socialising, And A Slice Of Pub Life

“Who wouldn’t want a trip to the pub in the glorious sunshine? It’s days like this that remind us how important it is to keep enjoying life’s simple pleasures.

“These regular outings are part of Charters Court’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles and positive wellbeing among its residents. Getting out and about helps lift spirits, encourages social connection, and brings variety to everyday life.

“We would like to thank The Star Lingfield for their warm hospitality and continued support.”

Residents at HC-One’s Charters Court Care Home in East Grinstead, West Sussex, recently enjoyed a delightful afternoon out, embracing the sunshine with a visit to The Star in Lingfield—a local favourite and a proud supporter of the home.

Christine Freemantle, Pearl Skilton and Jo Lovegrove, residents at Charters Court, soaked up the spring sunshine in the pub’s beautiful garden, where they were treated to ice-cold drinks, delicious homemade pizza, and chips. The visit was filled with laughter, great conversation, and the joy of reconnecting with the world beyond the care home’s doors.

Julie Harper, Home Manager at HC-One’s Charters Court Care Home, said:

Heartfelt Care

Every Step of the Way

We offer high-quality residential, nursing, dementia and respite care in a welcoming and engaging environment. Arrange a visit to discover comfort, companionship, and expert care. Find your

Skilled Worker Visas for the UK Care Sector

By Ben Stepney, Partner, and James Woollard, Trainee Solicitor, in the Employment team at Thomson Snell & Passmore LLP

The care sector in the UK provides essential support for the elderly, disabled, and vulnerable individuals.

In recent years, the industry has faced acute staff shortages, exacerbated by an ageing population, increased demand for care services, and reductions in funding from Local Authorities. The care sector is often not seen as an attractive place to work, with a perception of poor pay and conditions. As a result, visas have become a crucial mechanism for recruiting overseas workers to meet the staffing needs of care homes and other health and social care providers.

The UK social care sector employs over 1.5 million people, but there are approximately 131,000 vacancies in the adult social care workforce in England, a vacancy rate of 8.3%. Domestic recruitment has not kept pace with rising demand.

THE HEATH AND CARE WORKER VISA

In response to mounting pressure on from employers, the UK Government expanded the Health and Care Worker visa in early 2022. This visa allows eligible foreign nationals to work in specific roles within the NHS and adult social care. It is a subcategory of the Skilled Worker visa and offers several benefits:

Reduced visa fees compared to other Skilled Worker routes

Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge

Faster processing times

• Eligibility for dependants (partners and children)

A route to settlement after five years.

To qualify, applicants must:

Have a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK sponsor (such as a care home or care agency)

Be employed in an eligible occupation (e.g., care worker, senior care worker)

Be paid a minimum salary, generally £20,960 per year or £10.75 per hour (subject to change)

Meet English language requirements.

In March 2025, the government announced significant changes to the immigration system, particularly affecting the care sector. These reforms aim to reduce net migration to the UK generally but also address issues with recruitment in social care.

KEY CHANGES TO HEALTH AND CARE WORKER VISAS

Recruitment Prioritisation: From 9 April 2025, care providers in England must first attempt to recruit workers already residing in the UK before seeking overseas candidates. This policy encourages the employment of British citizens or those with Skilled Worker Visas already resident in the UK and aims to reduce reliance on immigration.

Employers must demonstrate they have attempted to recruit those already in the UK before trying to hire overseas. This requires employers to work with regional partnerships to identify suitable candidates before looking abroad. Employers must obtain confirmation from these partnerships that genuine efforts were made to recruit from within the UK and that no suitable candidates were available

Those already in the UK on Health and Care Worker Visas will be able to continue to work, extend their visas and switch to other visa routes including switching employers. Those already in the UK already will be able to switch into Health and Care Worker Visas until 2028.

Salary Threshold Increase: The minimum salary for those on Health and Social Care Visas has risen from £23,200 to £25,000 per year (£12.82 per hour). This adjustment aligns with the latest national pay scales and applies to new Certificates of Sponsorship issued from 9 April 2025.

Dependants: Care workers and senior care workers recruited after 11 March 2024 are no longer permitted to bring dependants to the UK. This measure addresses concerns over the high number of dependants accompanying care workers.

Employer Registration: Only Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered providers can sponsor care workers in England. Additionally, employers must demonstrate efforts to recruit from the existing UK workforce before hiring overseas notwithstanding the other changes announced.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE CARE SECTOR

These changes are part of a broader strategy to reform the UK's immigration system, aiming to reduce net migration. While the government asserts that these measures will encourage domestic recruitment and improve working conditions, critics argue that they may exacerbate existing staffing shortages in the care sector.

The Government's approach reflects a shift towards what it calls a more controlled and skills-focused immigration policy, with an emphasis employing UK citizens rather than relying on immigration.

These changes have raised concerns among social care providers and unions, who worry about potential workforce shortages and the impact on care services. The government is also proposing to increase the time required for immigrants to qualify for permanent settlement from five years to ten years, which may discourage some potential overseas workers.

The government has agreed to introduce an EU ‘youth mobility’ scheme, so employers may be able to make up any shortfall in their workforces from the changes to the Health and Care Worker Visas by recruiting from the European Union. Details of the ‘youth mobility’ scheme are still being outlined at the time of going to print.

ACTIONS FOR EMPLOYERS

The penalties for illegally employing someone remain severe and do not require fault on the employer’s part. So stay up to date on developments and periodically review your right to work compliance. Be prepared to provide information to existing employees who are on a visa and may be concerned about their right to work and how this impacts their dependents. Just being able to signpost them to guidance or further information may help reassure them.

Review your workplace planning. Are there visas expiring soon that may require sponsorship or additional checks before they can renewed.

New Inspection Service Launches To Counter Rising Costs Facing The Care Sector

Care Inspections UK (CIUK), the UK’s only accredited inspection body for care homes, has launched a pay-as-you-go inspection service aimed at helping care homes improve quality, performance, risk management, and regulatory ratings in the face of the increasing costs affecting the social care sector.

To ease cash flow during rising National Insurance and wage pressures, the subscription service offers care homes structured, evidence-based support to navigate compliance challenges effectively. To add to this support, CIUK is offering up to £100 per month off all new subscriptions for twelve months for sign-ups in May 2025.

Designed to accommodate a range of operational needs and budgets, the three-tiered subscription model, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, offers varying levels of inspection frequency, expert guidance, and action plans tailored to each home’s requirements.

Under the Silver plan, care homes receive an annual comprehensive inspection carried out by experienced, accredited professionals. The resulting detailed report includes a full breakdown of every aspect of the care home, along with easy click-through access to relevant standards, regulations, and best practices. An action plan is provided to cover any non-conformances, with ongoing review and support to ensure continuous progress. Homes that meet the required thresholds will be awarded a certification, signifying excellence in care provision. Additional benefits include advisory support before and after inspections, access to exclusive online events and forums for networking and best practice sharing, and participation in CIUK-led publicity initiatives designed to highlight high standards of care. CIUK also guarantees that, by fully implementing all aspects of the action plan, homes will see improvements in their regulatory ratings (CQC, CI, CIW, RQIA), giving providers added assurance that their investment in quality improvement will yield tangible results.

The Gold tier builds upon the Silver plan by offering additional regulatory and commissioning pre-

inspection tools. This deeper level of service helps care providers prepare more effectively for formal inspections, giving them an edge in demonstrating compliance with industry standards. Gold members benefit from an in-depth assessment of their readiness for external regulatory visits, with tailored support that helps anticipate potential concerns and address them proactively. In addition to all the features of the Silver package, Gold subscribers receive a more comprehensive level of preparatory guidance, ensuring that homes meet and exceed industry expectations.

The Platinum package is the most comprehensive offering, providing two inspections per year to ensure that care homes maintain consistently high standards throughout the year. Alongside the core benefits found in the Gold and Silver plans, Platinum members gain access to detailed analysis of inspection trends, helping care homes identify recurring issues and implement long-term solutions for sustained compliance and excellence. Additional advisory support is extended to Platinum members, ensuring they have ongoing expert guidance in regulatory matters, risk management, and quality improvement. This elite tier is particularly beneficial for larger care providers or those undergoing transitions, such as ownership changes or expansion, who require higher scrutiny and support.

Kevin Groombridge, chief executive at Care Inspections UK, said: “Our mission is to raise standards in the care sector by providing accessible, evidence-based support. This subscription model equips care homes with the tools to enhance compliance and deliver the highest-quality care.

With rising costs placing additional pressure on the sector, for only a couple hundred pounds a month, our service offers expert guidance and regular inspections to help providers navigate these challenges. By following our structured action plan, care homes can guarantee an improvement in their regulatory ratings, ensuring better outcomes for both residents and staff.”

See the advert on the facing page for further information.

Experience Trusted Protection with Jangro’s Professional Nitrile Disposable Gloves

In care environments where hygiene and safety are paramount, Jangro’s Professional Nitrile disposable gloves (DG130) offer a dependable solution, meeting the rigorous demands of daily care tasks. Designed with caregivers in mind, these gloves provide a comfortable fit without compromising on protection.

Made from high-quality nitrile, these gloves are both powder and latexfree, making them an ideal choice for individuals with latex sensitivities. Nitrile technology provides an exceptionally soft and pliable material that conforms naturally to the shape of the hand. This flexibility reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use and extended wear, allowing caregivers to perform tasks with comfort and ease. Textured fingertips enhance grip, even when wet, ensuring precision during delicate procedures. Whether assisting with personal care, handling food, or performing cleaning duties, these gloves support a wide range of applications within care settings. They’re more than just protective, these gloves are fully compliant with EN455 standards for medical use and EN ISO 374-5 for protection against bacteria, fungi and viruses, underscoring their suitability for infec-

tion control protocols. They also comply with the Medical Devices Regulation (EU) 2017/745 Class I and are manufactured in accordance with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulation (EU) 2016/425. Plus, they’ve been tested for food safety compliance under Commission Regulation (EU) No 10/2011, meaning these gloves are as versatile as they are protective.

The design features, including ambidextrous fitting and ridged cuffs for easy removal and their vibrant blue colour to aid visibility, have been carefully considered to streamline workflow for busy care professionals. At Jangro, we understand that the right protective equipment isn’t just about meeting standards, it’s about supporting the people who care for others every day. That is why our nitrile gloves are manufactured under stringent quality controls to meet the demands of healthcare environments, providing peace of mind for both staff and residents.

For more information or to view the full range of disposable gloves visit Jangro’s official website. www.jangro.net

Transforming NHS Volunteering in Scotland: Towards a Sustainable Step Change

By Professor George Crooks OBE, Chief Executive Officer, Digital Health & Care

63-year-old

Fleming McNiven from Broxburn spent 40 years sitting behind a desk as a chartered accountant before the desire to “give something back” took hold.

“I never really enjoyed my work, but one thing I really did enjoy was the sense of community of being with people in the office. And so, when I retired, I wanted to get out and be with people. Also, I wanted to keep the brain cells going but really, I wanted to give something back.”

So, when the chance to volunteer at St John’s Hospital in Livingston came up during Covid, he threw himself into it. Fleming works Tuesday mornings in the outpatient department for ophthalmology, diabetes, and podiatry and on a Thursday morning at the hospital’s main entrance reception.

“I greet people as they come in, directing them if they're vulnerable or nervous. I think it's really good for them to see a friendly face. And when people are obviously distressed for any reason, we can support them by sympathetically showing them where to go or just talking to them.

“I once took a lady up to the second floor in the hospital in the lift because she couldn’t use the stairs and was too scared to go in the lift on her own, so if I hadn't been there, she would have missed her appointment. I know that's very much appreciated because patients and visitors regularly come back to us to say thank you so much for helping them out.

“I'm only there for a few hours a week, but they really do show appreciation and thank me.”

Volunteering is vital to the NHS, but volunteer numbers halved to 3,000 since the Covid pandemic. To tackle this, Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS), which is part of NHS Scotland established – and is now delivering - a business transformation programme to reshape Scotland’s NHS volunteering service. With shifting age demographics altering traditional engagement models, this initiative will

deliver a modern, scalable, and digitally enabled volunteer service fit for the future.

The Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) has collaborated with Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) to shape and drive the transformation through co-developing a new model of volunteering. This will regenerate the service while broadening the scope of volunteering opportunities. It will also help demonstrate impact and value to individuals, communities and society. The result is a new national NHS Scotland Volunteering Service, underpinned by a market-leading Volunteer Management System (VMS), which will automate and streamline the volunteering processes. The collaboration used design innovation to develop a new business and operating model for volunteering, setting out an efficient, sustainable, national approach to the volunteering lifecycle.

The transformed national service, underpinned by efficiencies enabled by the VMS, aims to double participation to 6,000 volunteers, together contributing over one million hours annually. The project is now entering the delivery stage, with HIS piloting the VMS in one board area in May, before rolling out to two further boards. Expected benefits include volunteer self-service through digital engagement to build capacity in NHS Scotland Volunteering teams and robust data collection and impact measurements to assure continued investment in volunteering.

A crucial goal enabled through the changes is improving inclusivity of roles, expanding engagement across Scotland’s diverse communities to involve a wider range of volunteers.

Fleming believes there are lots of reasons for youngsters in particular to get involved.

“The young people I've been involved with who want to volunteer or who are maybe thinking of a career in the NHS get to see how the hospital works and meet the professionals to ask questions. So, I get to be an example to these young folk and that’s gratifying for me, because I've never really been involved in doing anything like that in my career.

“Also, volunteering looks great on a CV and it's a tremendous experience of interacting with people of all ages and all abilities. Some kids are very nervous when they come in; their parents or a guidance teacher may have told them to do it and they're really not sure why they're there. But when they finish, they are more outgoing and more confident, and quite a few come back to be regular volunteers.”

GOVERNMENT

SUPPORT

The programme is backed by the Scottish Government as part of its commitment to societal development, civic engagement, and sustainable healthcare. The economic value of NHS Scotland volunteering is projected to exceed £18 million over five years, reinforcing the social

and economic importance of volunteering to the people and communities of Scotland.

Health Secretary Neil Gray said, ‘Volunteers have played an important role in the health service for many years and the Scottish Government recognises and appreciates the contribution they make.

“The new Volunteer Management System will help to make the process of recruiting volunteers more efficient and will help us to create volunteering opportunities that are flexible and responsive to the needs of NHS Scotland. I am particularly keen that we make volunteering available to a wider demographic of people, so that more people who would like to volunteer are able to do so.”

“Our programme has the potential to offer more patients and families the chance to be supported by volunteers in a caring and compassionate way. It’s a major shift in volunteering, bringing more diverse opportunities and digital ways of engaging. For example, it could mean a student nurse in Aberdeen could volunteer during term time and then continue to volunteer back home in Glasgow during holidays. That could prove to be a real benefit.” said Dawn Fisher, at Healthcare Improvement Scotland.

Bill Kendall, Lead Consultant at the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre, added, “This collaborative project represents a transformational shift in NHS Scotland Volunteering to provide more and higher quality opportunities for people to give their time freely to support others, ‘giving back’ to society and improving their well-being. Working together with NHS HIS, the volunteer management community and Scottish Government, we are transforming the service to a new, more scalable and flexible model, showcasing how business and digital change can deliver meaningful change for patients, volunteers and staff, and for our society.”As for Fleming, he says volunteering has been one of the most rewarding and eye-opening things he’s ever done.

“I see how busy the staff are at times, and I see the quality of the care and compassion that the nurses and doctor’s show. I'm seeing that human side of the NHS. When I say I'm just a volunteer, they say, ‘No, you really do add value’ and that's appreciated from my perspective. I really, really enjoy every shift.”

The refreshed service and VMS digital toolset are being rolled out during 2025, with all Health Boards fully transitioned by May 2026. To find out more about the NHS Scotland Volunteering Programme: www.hisengage.scot/equipping-professionals/volunteering-in-nhsscotland

If you are interested in volunteering and giving back to your communities, go to: www.volunteer.scot.nhs.uk

Milo the Therapy Dog Brings Joy to Preston Care Home Residents

Ribble Court care home in Preston, part of Sandstone Care Group, has welcomed a very special four-legged visitor—Milo the dog. A regular guest at the home, Milo has quickly become a favourite among residents and staff alike.

Milo makes his way through the lounges and into residents’ rooms, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to interact with him. His presence has had a noticeable impact on the atmosphere within the home, encouraging conversation, increasing participation in activities, and bringing smiles to faces throughout.

The benefits of Milo’s visits have been particularly clear among residents living with dementia. The familiarity of seeing the same friendly

Automeds Pharmacy: Care Homes

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dog provides a comforting routine and offers valuable sensory stimulation.

Kerry Morley, Social Activities Coordinator at Ribble Court, said: "Milo’s visits make such a difference to our residents. You can see the change in people’s mood as soon as he walks into the room.”

Abbi Street, Social Activities Coordinator at Ribble Court, added: For some of our residents, especially those living with dementia, it’s the consistency of seeing the same dog that really helps—he becomes part of their world. We’ve noticed that after Milo’s visits, residents are more engaged in conversations and other activities too. He’s definitely one of the team now!"

Trusted Partner in Care and Convenience

Whether you’re a care home looking for reliable medication management or are in need of hassle-free prescriptions, Automeds Pharmacy is here to streamline your experience. Our team is specially trained to provide bespoke, efficient medication solutions tailored to your needs.

We partner with a range of eMAR providers, offering flexibility and variety—because every patient deserves a solution that fits just right. From same-day deliveries to bulk dispensing for care homes, we ensure you get the medications you need, when you need them.

We understand that repeat prescription ordering can be a hassle. That’s why our experienced team takes the pressure off our care home staff by handling this process for them. No more wasting time hunting down prescriptions—just more time for what matters most: quality care for residents.

With a daily cut-off time Monday to Friday, urgent items are delivered the same day, so no one has to wait.

As Automeds Pharmacy continues to grow, our mission remains steadfast: to offer tailored medication solutions that make a real difference in the lives of our patients.

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New Study Reveals Trade-Offs Being Made To Ensure NHS ‘Lives Within Its Financial Means’

A new study has uncovered the tough decisions NHS leaders are making to balance their books and protect patient care.

Researchers from The King’s Fund health and care charity spoke in depth to NHS leaders in England to understand the decisions being driven by tight finances.

In addition to initiatives to drive efficiency and boost productivity, the researchers found examples of local NHS leaders cutting services such as patient transport, holding down workforce costs by freezing recruitment and reducing agency staffing, and reducing investments in public health services such as health visiting and school nurses.

The authors call for realism about the trade-offs needed to deliver essential NHS reforms in the context of tight public finances and pressure to rapidly improve existing services.

Despite sustained real-terms increases in the NHS budget, rising demand for care and treatment driven by a sicker population have left the health service struggling to live within its means. An additional £22.6 billion NHS funding was announced in the 2024 Autumn Budget, yet the first iteration of financial plans for 2025/26 showed ‘a very significant financial deficit’ of £6.6 billion for NHS systems. Meanwhile, the maintenance backlog to return NHS buildings and equipment to an acceptable standard has been growing and currently stands at £13.8 billion.

The financial strains are complex, with some newer pressures, such as mitigating the impact of recent industrial action and cyber-security risks, while others, such as inflation, have been longstanding. Now, leaders interviewed for this research warn that some services are becoming financially unsustainable to run.

With the NHS unlikely to get a major funding boost in the current economic context, the report authors conclude that it will not be possible for the health service to do everything that might be asked or expected of it. The researchers argue that the government and public will need to be realistic about the extent to which current services can be improved in the short term while also delivering fundamental reforms that

would make for a sustainable health service in the long term.

The authors also recommend NHS trusts are set multi-year budgets instead of the current annual approach. They argue that greater funding certainty would help NHS leaders mitigate the risk of in-year financial pressures adversely impacting patient care.

Commenting on the findings, Siva Anandaciva, Director of Policy at The King’s Fund, said: ‘It is absolutely right that the NHS is asked to be as productive as possible and deliver value-for-money for patients and taxpayers. By adopting new technology and improving existing processes, health services around the globe are trying to improve patient care and reduce pressures on public finances. But it is also right that the health service is set realistic goals.

‘Our research shows how challenging it is to keep running high-quality services when budgets can’t keep pace with demand. It underlines just how difficult it will be to deliver much-needed reforms while also expecting rapid improvements to current services.

‘NHS budgets have risen in real terms while some other public services have seen funding cuts, but financial pressures persist and they are having an impact on the quality of care. Patients are experiencing long waits for care, are treated in dilapidated buildings, and report worsening experience. The impact is shown in the findings of the latest British Social Attitudes survey, which found that public satisfaction with the NHS is at its lowest level since the survey began over 40 years ago.

‘The government’s ambition to deliver major reform for the NHS has never been more needed. To achieve that goal, ministers have previously said they will need to make tough trade-offs.

Now is the time for realism about what can be achieved in the current financial envelope, and clarity about how the NHS should prioritise funding to deliver reforms versus maintaining the services people are currently using every day.’

Local Housekeeper Celebrates 30 Years Of Service With Lindum House

A Housekeeper at Lindum House in Beverley has received a prestigious Long Service Award in celebration of working at Barchester Healthcare for 30 years.

Sarah Burges, now Head Housekeeper, started at Barchester in May 1995 and has worked with residents and their relatives to ensure that their needs have been met over the years.

Sarah came into the company as a care assistant, before becoming a kitchen assistant, relief chef, second chef, then becoming a qualified chef through college and becoming head chef before becoming head of housekeeping at the home.

She added: “During my three decades at the home, I’ve been married and started a family, I love the care environment and never wished to change or go

anywhere else.

Adele Keenan, Employee Services Director at Barchester said: “I’m always pleased to hear stories about the long service of Barchester staff and am delighted Sarah has achieved this milestone.

It is dedication like this that ensures our residents are provided with a happy place to live.”

Jayne Clarke, General Manager of Lindum House said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating 30 years of loyal service with Sarah. She has demonstrated her dedication and loyalty to this home and its residents year after year.

I speak for all of us here at Lindum House when I say that I’m looking forward to many more years of working with Sarah!”

Sleep Problems Could Double Risk Of

Dementia In Later Life Research Reveals

People who experience sleep disorders are at greater risk of developing dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions later in life, new research led by Prof Valentina Escott-Price (UK DRI at Cardiff) reveals. The study provides new insight into the complex relationship between sleep and neurodegenerative disease, and whether disrupted sleep is an early sign of neurodegeneration, or makes someone more likely to go on to develop dementia later.

In the new study, scientists at the UK DRI at Cardiff and the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Intramural Center for Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias, looked at data from over 1 million electronic health records to examine the relationship between sleep and neurodegenerative disease, in one of the largest studies to date.

The meta-analysis, published in the journal npj Dementia, and funded by the UK DRI and the NIH’s National Institute on Aging and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke found people who had experienced certain sleep disorders were up to twice as likely to go on to develop a neurodegenerative disease in the 15 years that followed. Through analysing over 1 million people’s health records, we have found evidence to suggest that having a sleep disorder significantly increases someone’s risk of going on to later develop a neurodegenerative disease. In fact, this increased risk was present for up to 15 years following a sleep disorder diagnosis, and the risk was even greater for people who experienced recurrent sleep disorders.

Prof Valentina Escott-Price Group Leader said: “Interestingly, the study also revealed that sleep disorders increased the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, even in people with a low genetic risk of disease. This suggests that sleep disorders and genetics may influence risk separately, acting by independent mechanisms.”

The scientists examined data from three biobanks: the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) databank, UK Biobank, and FinnGen. Across the three biobanks, they were able to obtain accurate, timestamped records of when people were experiencing sleep disorders, as marked in their medical records.

The team looked at people who had been diagnosed with one or more sleep disorders, which were grouped for data analysis into ‘organic’ sleep disorders thought to be cause by physiological factors, with typical examples being narcolepsy, sleep apnoea, circadian rhythm sleep disorders, hypersomnia, (excessive daytime sleepiness), parasomnias (abnormal behaviours or movement during sleep e.g. sleepwalking, night terrors), cataplexy; and ‘non-organic’ sleep disorders not linked to a known physiological condition, including generalised insomnia and nightmares.

Using large-scale statistical analysis methods, the scientists mapped out the relationships between the different neurodegenerative diseases and sleep disorders.

THEY FOUND:

• For dementia (general diagnosis, specific disease not known), incidences of sleep apnoea and other organic and non-organic sleep disorders were associated with an increased risk of dementia in the 10-15 years that followed. The risk was further increased for people recorded as experiencing multiple sleep disorders;

• For Alzheimer’s disease, organic sleep disorders increased risk of Alzheimer’s in the 10-15 years following sleep disorder diagnosis;

• For vascular dementia, sleep apnoea and other organic and non-organic sleep disorders increased risk of vascular dementia in the 5-10 years following sleep disorder diagnosis. The risk was further increased for people recorded as experiencing multiple sleep disorders;

• For Parkinson’s, organic and non-organic sleep disorders increased risk of Parkinson’s in the 10-15 years following sleep disorder diagnosis;

• Although large-scale, the study is limited by its observational nature. It also did not account for the use of medication or other interventions to improve sleep, or co-morbidities which may have had an impact. Next, the authors aim to factor the effect of interventions into further analysis, to examine whether improving sleep leads to a reduction in risk.

Joint first author Dr Emily Simmonds, Bioinformatician at the UK Dementia Research Institute at Cardiff University, said: “In our study, we wanted to understand the complicated relationship between sleep and dementia. People living with dementia often experience sleep problems, but there is not yet enough evidence to say for sure whether poor sleep increases risk of dementia.

“We set out to see if we could figure out what order these things are happening. By using biobank data, we had timestamped records of when people had sleep disorders, and exactly when they were subsequently diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease – rather than relying on selfreporting.

“Our results are compelling, indicating a clear increased risk of neurodegenerative disease following a sleep disorder, across three large biobank datasets.”

Joint first author Kristin Levine, Data Scientist at the NIH’s Center for Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias, said: “One of the exciting things about identifying people at higher risk of developing a neurodegenerative disease 10-15 years before diagnosis, is that it gives us time to implement treatments that may delay or prevent development of disease. In the case of sleep disorders, future studies could look at the effectiveness of treatment with a continuous positive airway pressure machine (CPAP) and/or sleep medications to see if those interventions can lower the associated risk of later developing an neurodegenerative disease.”

Study co-leader Prof Valentina Escott-Price, Group Leader at the UK Dementia Research Institute at Cardiff University, said: “Through analysing over 1 million people’s health records, we have found evidence to suggest that having a sleep disorder significantly increases someone’s risk of going on to later develop a neurodegenerative disease. In fact, this increased risk was present for up to 15 years following a sleep disorder diagnosis, and the risk was even greater for people who experienced recurrent sleep disorders.

“Perhaps most interestingly, this increased risk was occurring independently of genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, with sleep disorders almost ‘compensating’ for low genetic risk. One would expect that if sleep disorders were caused by neurodegeneration, genetic risk of sleep disorder and neurodegenerative disease would line up. Further investigation is needed, but this points towards sleep disorders as a risk factor for these conditions.”

Study co-leader Hampton Leonard, Lead of the Statistical Genetics and Collaborative Data Science group at the NIH’s Center for Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias, said: “Sleep disturbances are common in many neurodegenerative diseases and may even share overlapping genetic risk factors, GBA1 in RBD and Parkinson’s for example. The potential bi-directional relationship between sleep disorders and neurodegenerative diseases is one of the reasons we were inspired to do this work. Are sleep disorders contributing to disease progression, a result of neurodegeneration, or both?

“Density plots of genetic risk scores suggest that individuals who develop Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s and also have sleep disorders tend to have lower genetic risk (when including APOE), raising the possibility that sleep disorders may influence disease risk beyond being early symptoms. Since neurodegenerative disease symptoms may appear up to 10 years before diagnosis, more research is needed. Still, these findings suggest that early detection and treatment of sleep disturbances have potential as a modifier of disease progression, or could serve as an early warning for intervention where treatment 5-15 years before neurodegenerative disease diagnosis may make a world of difference as new therapeutics become available.”

Sleep expert Prof Derk-Jan Dijk, Group Leader at the UK Dementia Research Institute Centre for Care Research & Technology at Imperial College London and the University of Surrey, said: “This study adds to the growing body of evidence that sleep disorders, such as sleep apnoea, increase the risk for neurodegenerative disease. It is therefore important that we develop scalable technologies to diagnose and treat these sleep conditions early and effectively.”

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Chelmsford Care Home Relaunches Charitable

Knitting Circle to Support Broomfield Hospital

HC-One's Admirals Reach Care Home, in Chelmsford, Essex, has relaunched its Knit & Natter Group to bring residents together for a purposeful afternoon of crafting in support of Broomfield Hospital. The monthly gathering aims to create handmade items for premature babies at the local hospital. The revitalised group, which meets on the last Monday of every month at 2.30pm in Mountbatten Community, is currently seeking additional participants to join their charitable mission. With projects ranging from knitting tiny hats and clothing for premature babies to creating items for sale, residents are channelling their creative skills into meaningful community support. The group relaunched last week on Monday, April 28.

Joyce Darling, 91, HC-One’s Admirals Reach resident, shared her enthu-

siasm for the initiative:

"We are teaching them to make hats for the babies in hospital."

Fellow resident Daphne Faulds, 89, commented on her current project, noting the "lovely colours" she was using at "the start of a blanket" demonstrating the pride and joy residents take in their creations.

Maxine Gower, HC-One’s Admirals Reach Wellbeing Coordinator, who facilitates the group, said: "This initiative not only provides a wonderful social opportunity for our residents but also gives them a sense of purpose by contributing to causes close to their hearts.

"The skills many of our residents have developed over decades are now being put to use helping the most vulnerable in our community."

Families Angry Over £7,000 A Year Cross Border Funding Gap For Loved Ones In North Wales Care Homes

Angry families say their loved ones are being treated like “second class citizens” because of a massive cross-border funding gap.

They spoke out after learning Denbighshire County Council pays £7,000 a year less per person towards providing care in a care home than their counterparts a short hop across the water in Conwy.

One elderly couple caught up in the postcode lottery of funding are Leslie and Megan Smallwood.

Leslie, 90, a retired quantity surveyor, and Megan, 86, a former maths teacher, live at The Old Deanery Care Home in St Asaph.

They moved there in February last year from their family home at Caerwys in Flintshire, with that property now up for sale.

Their daughter Yvonne Harding, a community nurse who lives in Heswall on the Wirral, said: “Having this difference in fees from one council to another is fundamentally unfair.

“It seems to me Conwy are valuing the care sector, and I applaud that.

“We can’t fault the home in its care, but it’s about meeting the true cost of that care.”

Meanwhile, Rosemary Holland’s brother Andrew Truelove, 61, is a resident at St David’s Residential Home in Rhyl.

Her father John Truelove had been a resident at the home until his death in September last year.

Rosemary, who lives in Conwy, used to work in the care sector and said she has huge concerns about the financial challenges the industry was facing.

She urged Denbighshire County Council to at least match the fees paid by Conwy County Council.

She said that would ensure all care home residents received an equal level of care – and would stop staff leaving homes in Denbighshire for better pay at care homes across the river in Conwy.

Rosemary said: “I just feel that Denbighshire needs to sort themselves out and pay the extra.

“They need to, because what Denbighshire is doing is affecting the residents.

“I have real concerns about the way social services in Denbighshire is working with residents, because it feels like they are not working for the residents, they are working to try to keep costs down.”

The span of the Grade II listed Foryd Bridge – a replica of the Sydney Harbour Bridge – can mean a huge difference in funding for care homes on opposite banks of the mouth of the River Clwyd.

Social care champions Care Forum Wales also hit out describing the funding gap as a “shameful disparity is grossly unjust because it discriminates against older vulnerable people.”

Thea Brain, North Wales Policy Advisor for CFW, said: “This is about the entitlement of the individual. Why is someone who lives in Conwy worth more than someone who lives in Denbighshire?

“When you press this issue with the people at Denbighshire County Council they give very vague answers pointing to the differences in settlement for each local authority but that doesn’t account for these huge differences in the figures.

“When you look into this you are left with the unacceptable conclusion that this is just a matter of political priority.”

CFW Chair Mario Kreft MBE said: “It’s astonishing that a Labour-controlled council like Denbighshire is ignoring Welsh Labour Government advice and is promoting such inequality in Wales.

“Those making these decisions should consider positions.”

Grand National Loving Joyce, Celebrates Her Centenary Birthday With Family And Care Home Friends

Haslemere care homeresident Joyce Douglas has been enjoying her 100th birthday celebrations surrounded by her family, care home friends, balloons, cards, gifts and the care home team.

Joyce, who has lived at Redcot since February 2022, was born at 4.45pm on 25th May, 20 minutes before her identical twin sister, Mollie. “When I arrived, I only just about weighed 4 lbs,” said Joyce. “There was evidently a surprise on its way, as the Doctor had left the house after I was born but had to be called back by the Midwife to deliver my sister.”

Growing up in the leafy suburb of Mossley Hill in Liverpool, Joyce enjoyed a very happy childhood. At the age of eight, in 1933, she joined the Brownies and has been involved in Guiding ever since; both as a Guide, a Leader and most recently a Vice President of Merseyside South Guides. Joyce also remains a Member of The Trefoil Guild, which is part of the Girlguiding organisation and provides a place for former Guides to continue to support the Guiding movement.

Joyce is a woman of many talents, one of which is her gift for sport. “I suppose I was quite an accomplished sportswoman,” continued Joyce. “I love Hockey, and played for The Liverpool Ladies, I was quite a good Netball player too.” Joyce and Mollie were inseparable and had lots of fun and laughs together. “Mollie and I were rather cheeky growing up,” added Joyce. “As identical twins, we did get up to a bit of mischief. Many times we’d swap places and deputise for each other in lessons - or detentions!

“When we were young, someone told us that cats have nine lives, so Mollie and I ran our own experiment to prove the theory. We popped our cat out of the window – which was only on the ground floor –and he landed perfectly on all fours, so it must be true.”

Despite her own sporting prowess, Joyce is not a great follower of football – even given her local Liverpudlian heritage. However, Joyce has always watched and had a flutter on the Grand National. “Harry’s house was next to start of the Aintree Racecourse, so it would have been rude not to have a little wager each year,” continued Joyce.

Mollie and Joyce must have made a formidable duo. In 1948 they travelled through a war ravaged Europe to go walking in Switzerland, and in 1950, they travelled to Norway - which to this day, still remains Joyce’s favourite destination. In 1955, the sisters bought a brand new Ford Prefect – they were very proud of the car as not too many people, let alone women, bought new cars in the Fifties.

“My sister Mollie died aged 95 after suffering from Parkinsons Disease for some years,” continued Joyce.

“I still think of her and our adventures together every day, we really were soulmates.”

“I first visited Redcot when my daughter-in-law’s mother was a resident,” said Joyce. “She was very happy at the care home and as soon as I walked in, I knew this was where I would like to be. It is close to my son Andrew and is a warm and welcoming place with caring staff, good food, lots of activities and amazing views.”

“Joyce as an absolute pleasure to have living with us at Redcot,” said Staci Abernethy, the Interim Manager at the care home. “You’ll always find Joyce at all of our activities, chatting to all her care home friends, taking part and enjoying every day. Whether it’s a seated exercise class, an arts and crafts session, being a team player in a quiz or doing The Times crossword, Joyce will always have a smile on her face and a happy word to say to everyone.

“Joyce also loves being part of our many community events, and when we opened our very own pub, The Redcot Arms back in 2023, Joyce was the first resident to be served a drink by the then Mayor of Haslemere, Councillor Jerome Davidson.

“On Joyce’s extra special day, we wanted to show her just how special she is to everyone here at Redcot. We arranged a surprise afternoon tea birthday party with all her family and care home friends, complete with a delicious celebratory birthday cake, which was home-made by our Chef; but the surprises didn’t stop there. Joyce’s family also took her out for a gorgeous family celebration as well,” added Staci.

“I have had the most wonderful 100th birthday,” continued Joyce. “I have been spoilt rotten and loved every minute.

“Over my 100 years, I have seen so many things – World War II, the Moon Landing, King Edward VIII’s abdication, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III’s Coronations; Concord taking flight, even the invention of the World Wide Web and Internet – there are too many to mention. I have been so fortunate.

“I think I have reached my centenary birthday, and still feel great, as I believe in everything in moderation. Taking regular exercise, not drinking too much – a little, but not a lot - and always having a positive outlook and strong faith. These things have stood me well, so I must be doing something right,” concluded a smiling Joyce.

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Nottingham Care Home Prepares To Take Part In The Great British Care Cycle Relay To Mark Care Home Open Week 2025

HC-One’s Fosse Way View Care Home in Bingham, Nottingham, is preparing to take part in the Great British Care Cycle Relay event, organised by Championing Social Care which runs in tandem with Care Home Open Week activities.

The Great British Care Cycle Relay is a monumental cycling event that aims to raise awareness and shine a positive spotlight on the work of the social care sector in the United Kingdom.

The relay combines cycling, camaraderie and compassion, providing those taking part to promote healthier lifestyle whilst also raising awareness and the profile of care available across different communities by visiting a number of care services enroute to celebrate and highlight the amazing work they do.

Fosse Way View Care Home will be one of the care homes the Great British Care Cycle Relay team will stop off at as part of the Nottingham leg of the cycle relay on Saturday 14th June as part of their 111km route. Fosse Way View is looking forward to welcoming in the Great British Care Cycle Relay team to the home to showcase the fantastic facilities and care they offer whilst having a chat and offering the cyclists some light refreshments to recuperate before setting off on the next leg of their cycle relay.

This year marks the third consecutive year that the Great British Care Cycle Relay is taking place and in the lead up to Care Home Open Week taking place, riders will be gearing up to take part in a five-day event featuring daily rides of approximately 100km, designed to raise awareness of the vital role care services play at the heart of communities across the UK.

The first official loop will begin in Edinburgh on 12th June, with the symbolic social care flag then travelling through the Scottish Borders to York for the second stage. From there, the relay will continue to Nottingham, followed by a ride in Wales starting in Cardiff.

The final leg will see cyclists depart from Brighton and head to central London, where the event will culminate in alignment with the launch of Care Home Open Week on Monday 16th June.

Liz Wood, Home Manager at Fosse Way View Care Home, stated: “We are delighted to be participating in this year’s Great British Care Cycle Relay with Championing Social Care to mark this year’s Care Home Open Week celebrations.

“We look forward to celebrating Care Home Open Week 2025 which aims to bring the local community together.

“At Fosse Way View, we are looking forward to welcoming members of the local community to join in with our celebrations. The week provides a great opportunity to reinforce the great connection between our residents and home, and our local community.

“Care Home Open Week provides us with an opportunity to showcase our extensive facilities, activities, and services we have to offer, as well as help people to understand more about what a rewarding career in care looks like, which will help support our mission to be the first-choice care provider in our community.”

Sutton Coldfield Care Home Celebrates

Pride With Iconic Drag Queen Performance

A Sutton Coldfield care home held a very special celebration to mark Birmingham Pride.

Care UK’s Bishop Manor, on Jockey Road, was transformed with rainbow flags and feather boas as residents welcomed drag artist Aunty Ginger for an afternoon filled with glamour, laughter, and music. Residents took part in a variety of activities, including face painting, singing, and dancing, all designed to celebrate the spirit of inclusivity, love, diversity and community.

so impressed by all the team, families and residents that got so involved! The effort is second to none, and it’s one of my favourite gigs to return to. Can’t wait to be back!”

Thomas Bampfield, General Manager at Bishops Manor, said: “We had an absolute blast celebrating Pride and flying the rainbow flag.

“At Bishops Manor, we’re dedicated to creating a warm, inclusive environment for everyone. Celebrating Pride is just one of the many ways we show our support for the LGBTQ+ community. We love to make residents feel like they can be themselves, and it’s a joyful reminder of the beauty of individuality.

“Pride month has a wonderful way of bringing people together, and it was fantastic to see residents enjoying themselves, laughing, singing, and celebrating. A huge thank you to Aunty Ginger, who the residents requested to come back to Bishops Manor sooner. She brought such brilliant energy and fun to the day – she really got the party started!”

Sanaway’s New Reusable & Recyclable Sharps Container Helps

Care Homes Strengthen Zero Waste to Landfill Credentials

Sanaway, a leading clinical waste, sharps, and washroom hygiene service provider, has introduced new reusable and recyclable sharps containers as part of its auditable ‘Zero Waste to Landfill’ service commitment.

The initiative is part of Sanaway’s ongoing focus to reduce environmental impact for both the company, and its nursing and residential care home customers.

The new reusable recyclable sharps container enables one container to be reused 10 times before being recycled into new reusable sharps containers. The container’s VisiLOCK system optimises safety by eliminating the risk of content spills that may lead to cross-contamination or accidental needlestick injury.

The family-owned business operates across the South of England, servicing customers that demand a reliable, personal and high standard of service at a competitive price.

Co-founder and director, Patrick Martin says: “We are exceptionally proud of our environmental philosophy and commitment, which has been at the core of the company since day one.

“Providing the new reusable sharps service is now standard for all our customers, and at no extra cost. This not only demonstrates our dedication to help minimise the impact our industry has on the environment, but can also help customers achieve up to an 87% carbon saving. This being in line with the NHS’s targets for a 50% reduction in emissions by 2026.”

REDUCE, REUSE AND RECYCLE

Each sharps container has a VisiLOCK closing mechanism to ensure optimum user safety. Once full:

• The containers are collected by Sanaway delivered to the processing facility. • A robot opens and photographs the contents before: o Sharps are incinerated.

o Containers are sanitised and recovered.

• The sharps containers are thoroughly checked before being returned for reuse.

• Containers are tracked using barcode scanning to monitor their usage cycles, after 10 uses, the container is granulated and remanufactured into a new sharps container.

• This process is repeated 10 times, meaning the original plastic is reused 100 times.

• After completing 10 full cycles, the plastic is granulated again and repurposed into non-medical products, such as road traffic cones.

Sanaway’s Zero Waste to Landfill philosophy is a market leading standard, based on Energy from Waste (EFW) technology, which means it is a sustainable solution for both waste management and energy production. 99.995% of the process is recyclable and all the recyclable elements are removed before the incineration process leaving only 0.005% nonrecyclable.

The company’s auditable Zero Waste to Landfill service diverts all of the 50 plus tonnes of waste the company collects from its customers every year from landfill, and contributes towards the power supply for more than 50,000 homes. The company’s ISO 9001 accreditation also gives the added peace of mind from a day to day management perspective, providing a benefit for nursing and residential care homes with ISO 14001 certification, enabling them to fulfil their continuous improvement requirements.

Commenting on the new service, Martin concludes: “We believe considered improvements like these to our customer first, high service standards are the main reason many of our clients have been with us for so many years, contributing to our enviable 95% customer retention rate and year on year growth.” For more information visit

Aunty Ginger, said: “It was an absolute ball! I’m

Digital Helping To Improve Care Services Across Dorset

Staff from Dorchester’s Culliford House care home. The care home has embraced new digital technologies.

Dozens of care providers across Dorset are providing even more effective services for their residents after embracing digital technology. They have received funding from the national Digitising Social Care programme (DiSC) to digitise social care records, receive digital training and install acoustic monitors to enhance residents’ safety. And funding was also used to help create the region’s first network of digital champions in the care sector.

Across the Dorset Council and BCP (Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole) Council areas there are now 36 digital champions in care homes. One care home to take advantage of all the digital funding opportunities was Culliford House in Dorchester.

Jeanette A’Court, Quality Manager at Culliford House, said: “We are so grateful for the funding we have received to make us a more digital organisation.

“Instead of filling in reams of paperwork, we now have a digital record system that enables our staff to fill in reports on the spot via special handsets. This frees up more time for our staff to spend with patients.

“The data we collect is also used to improve the personal care each resident receives.

“One of our staff members has also gone through the digital champion training offered by Dorset Council and this has been invaluable. It means we have a mentor on site who can help other staff members embrace digital technologies.”

Another huge benefit for Culliford House has been signing up to a new acoustic monitoring system.

This specialist equipment discreetly monitors residents’ nighttime sleep patterns and generates alerts if it detects any unusual sounds. By tracking deviations from regular noise patterns, it helps ensure the safety and well-being of residents during the night.

Jeanette explained: “Usually we will go to a resident’s room every hour throughout the night, but the benefit of this system is it alerts us immediately and we can respond at once.

“Going digital not only makes us more efficient but it is also a powerful tool in safeguarding our residents.”

Altogether, 67 adult social care providers in Dorset have benefitted in some way from the national investment in improving their digital offering.

Care providers were offered up to £4,000 match funding for digital care records and up to £10,000 for acoustic monitoring.

A £32,000 UK Shared Prosperity grant was also used to fund care staff attending Dorset Council’s embedded digital champion training scheme.

Cllr Steve Robinson, Dorset Council’s Cabinet member for Adult Social Care, said: “We are incredibly grateful that this national investment is helping care providers across Dorset to embrace digital and future proof their services.

“Dorset Council has helped to lead and support this roll-out of digital in the care sector on behalf of the Dorset Integrated Care System, which represents the whole county.

“It’s been a win-win for the providers that have grasped these opportunities and the residents and families they serve.”

Hartford Care Invests £5 million in Renovations at Tegfield House Care Home in Winchester

Hartford Care’s ‘Outstanding’ rated Tegfield House care home on Chilbolton Avenue, Winchester, has just completed a £5 million extension and renovation, which includes a dining room with lifestyle kitchen, an additional lounge overlooking the garden, a hair salon and a new courtyard, along with 16 new en suite bedrooms.

Tegfield House offers residential care, dementia care, respite breaks, day care and end of life care within its characterful home, nestled within its own landscaped gardens.

The bedrooms, located in the newly-built extension, will offer neutral, modern interiors and act as a perfect canvas to be personalised as resi-

dents wish, with their own furniture from home, family photographs or paintings. All will have en suite wet rooms. Alongside the new rooms will be a new dining room and courtyard.

Sarah Robertson, Home Manager at Tegfield House, comments: “We’re thrilled the new extension and refurbishment is now complete. We’re thoroughly looking forward to welcoming our new residents and we’re so pleased with the extra space, enabling our residents to enjoy a wider range of activities in an improved social environment for themselves and their visitors.”

The Haven Care Home in Boston Introduces

‘Care Colleagues’ Breakfast Club

Black Swan Care Group’s The Haven care home on Whitehouse Lane in Boston has introduced a new ‘Care Colleagues’ breakfast club at the home. Professional colleagues from across the health and social care sector are invited to meet staff, residents and others at the home, while enjoying a sausage or bacon roll and a hot drink freshly prepared by the home’s kitchen team.

Manager Evangeline Girling explained the idea: “I read elsewhere that a care home in Surrey had introduced a similar idea and thought it would be a great idea for us to give it a try. The idea is that anyone from the Blue Light services – police, ambulance, paramedics, fire fighters can pop in. We’d also

like to welcome other health and social care representatives – doctors, district nurses, social workers etc.

“We work really closely with all these health and care professionals during our working day, but don’t often have time to get to know them properly or understand some of the different pressures they’re facing. Of course, we don’t want to interrupt their busy schedules, but as part of our commitment to working collaboratively with everyone in our sector, and within our local community, we thought this would be a good idea.”

The breakfast club runs on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month from 9.00 to 11.00,

Two Somerset Care Homes Step Back in Time at Yeovilton Air Museum

In the lead-up to VE Day, residents (fondly referred to as family members) from Frome Nursing Home and Catherine House Care Home, in Somerset, enjoyed a day filled with history, reflection, and connection during a visit to the Fleet Air Arm Museum in Yeovilton.

Travelling together by minibus, Pat, Janet, Peter, Ann, Janet and Ruby arrived ready to explore. Coffee and snacks welcomed them before they set off to see the museum’s exhibitions, from towering helicopters taking off outside, to stepping inside the simulator and feeling the vibrations of a take-off.

Standing under the wings of the famous Concorde, family members paused to take in the scale and significance of what surrounded them.

For Peter, the museum brought back memories of his service during the Falklands conflict. He shared thoughtful conversations with a guide, reflecting on how much had changed, and how much still felt familiar. Pat found the visit especially emotional. A former pilot who once flew solo, the

sight of the aircraft stirred strong feelings, and a few happy tears, as she spoke of her flying days.

Janet recalled living through the London Blitz as a young girl, while another Janet smiled as she spoke about her brother’s work on the Concorde engines at Filton.

After a relaxed picnic lunch, the conversation continued all the way home. Peter is already keen to plan their next outing.

To make future visits inevitable, team member Sharon secured a year-long pass, allowing family members from both homes to return freely throughout the year.

Frome Nursing Home and Catherine House Care Home value the importance of maintaining the routines and experiences that feel familiar, whether that's spending time on a hobby, enjoying home baking, or going for local outings. It's about offering choice and creating opportunities that feel natural and meaningful.

Bringing Dignity and Colour to Daily Living: How

Thoughtful Design is Supporting Care Communities

At Rosa Lifestyle, we believe that daily living aids should do more than just meet functional needs - they should spark joy, preserve dignity and reflect individuals’ personalities. This belief is at the heart of every product we create, and it’s a vision born from a very personal place.

Our founder, Sarah, established Rosa Lifestyle after experiencing first-hand the lack of practical yet dignified and stylish solutions available for her own grandmother, who was living with dementia. She found that too often, the market was saturated with clinical-looking, uninspired products that did little to support wellbeing or enhance the experience of those living with cognitive or physical challenges. Rosa Lifestyle was created to change that.

We design products that support people to continue eating and drinking more independently, but also with more confidence and comfort. Our core range of produces includes lightweight, two-handled mugs, compatible mug lids, and matching snack trays - all made from high-quality melamine to give the look of a china or ceramic mug but importantly, without the weight. Each item is carefully developed to be functional, durable, and attractive - bringing a sense of warmth and homeliness to mealtimes.

WHAT THOUGHTFUL DESIGN CAN DO

The impact of beautifully considered daily living aids extends far beyond aesthetics. As a resident living with early-onset dementia shared in her heartfelt response: “I am a youngster in a care home and was needing to use their plastic two-handled beakers which I hated! Found your beautiful, colourful mugs! They are great and don't remind me of my disabilities and much nicer when visitors join me for afternoon tea!” This testimonial cuts to the very heart of our mission - creating products that people are proud to use, that support their needs without highlighting their limitations and fostering greater social connections and inclusion.

Our two-handled mugs, for example, are specifically designed to offer greater stability for individuals with limited grip strength, tremors, reduced vision, or reduced dexterity. The dual handles allow for a balanced, secure grip, reducing the risk of spills and burns. This not only improves safety but can dramatically reduce anxiety around drinking - both for users and their caregivers.

Meanwhile, our mug lids help prevent spills and keep beverages warmer for longer, while our snack trays

are perfect for that lunchtime sandwich or afternoon cake and have an integrated cup holder for greater stability, are lightweight, and easy to clean. Together, these products support better hydration and nutrition - two essential but potentially challenging areas in care environments.

REAL IMPACT, REAL VOICES

The most powerful endorsements of our work come from those who use our products every day. One care home manager told us: “The mugs are being well utilised and have been a wonderful addition to the home.” While at a dementia day centre in Fife, the team shared how Rosa Lifestyle mugs have transformed daily routines: “We use the mugs every day for our clients who love them! With these mugs being lighter than others, we’ve noticed that not only do our clients drink more fluids (and soup) than they otherwise would - which really helps their overall fluid and nutrition intake - it also promotes their independence and dignity as well.” These kinds of outcomes are why we do what we do.

SUPPORTING CAREGIVERS, ENHANCING LIVES

For caregivers, whether professionals or family members, our products are more than tools. They are part of a broader culture of care that values choice, dignity, and self-expression. When a resident or loved one feels more confident and capable using a product that respects their tastes and abilities, the knock-on effects are enormous: greater participation in mealtimes, improved mood, and fewer incidents of frustration or distress.

Our hope is that Rosa Lifestyle products are seen as adaptive homeware rather than clinical aids and become staples in care homes, day centres, and private homes alike - not only because they’re functional, but because they bring a dignified positivity to people’s everyday lives.

In an ever faster moving and busy world, small moments matter. A warm cup of tea enjoyed without fear of spilling. The comfort of a snack on a familiar tray. The joy of choosing a mug that feels personal. These are the moments that build dignity, connection, and overall wellbeing.

To learn more about Rosa Lifestyle or explore our product range, please visit www.rosalifestyle.co.uk or see the advert on page 5

Adele's Dream Comes True Thanks To Her Charity Shop Work

FRIENDLY Cambridge grandmother Adele Buckley's dream came true when she got behind the till of a local charity shop

The 76-year-old Cambridge Grove Care Home resident joined the team at Break charity shop in Sawston – where she used to work every week.

Former secretary Adele said: "I had a wonderful morning. It was brilliant to be able to give time back to the community and see some of the people in Sawston.

"I am very grateful to Amy at Cambridge Grove Care Home for helping me achieve my dream of getting back to Break. I hope to be able to go again soon."

The charity shop helps raise money to support children and young people on the edge of care, in care and leaving care.

The mum of two spent her time on the till serving customers at the busy store, just as she had always done until around two years ago when she became too ill to work.

As well as till work, Adele also worked on the accounts, sorted

clothes and tagged items.

Shop Manager Kristina Barnes said: "It was lovely to welcome Adele back to Break. She's always been a fabulous help, and our customers love to see her."

Cambridge Grove Home Ambassador Amy Millburn added: "It was an absolute pleasure to support Adele today. She clearly enjoyed herself, and it was great to see her engaging with the local community and doing something she loves. I even purchased a couple of items while I was there!"

Adele moved into Cambridge Grove Care Home, Cambridge Road, Fulbourn, on New Year's Eve 2024 after a spell in hospital. She has a long history of working for charity.

The charity Break works across East Anglia and believes that every child, no matter their start in life, deserves a bright future. It works to provide opportunities for young people to engage with, helping them towards independence.

Oxfordshire Care Home Resident Lucy Celebrates Magical 101st Birthday

An Oxfordshire care home resident has recently celebrated her 101st birthday with a fairytale surprise.

Lucy Brown, a much-loved resident at Oxford Manor Care Home in Didcot, marked the momentous occasion with live music, a homemade cake and a Cinderella-style carriage organised by the care team.

Born on 23rd April 1924 in Cheddar, Somerset, Lucy has lived an extraordinary life filled with family, service and travel - and her special day was a reflection of all those things.

Celebrations kicked off the day before her birthday, where residents enjoyed a visit from a local singer performing golden oldies and country classics - Lucy’s favourites - with several joining in for impromptu duets.

for a

The home’s in-house chef, Ali, made a birthday cake just for Lucy, which she kindly shared with fellow residents and family after a cheerful rendition of Happy Birthday.

To make the day even more magical, the team surprised Lucy by decorating her wheelchair with a Cinderella-style carriage - a light-hearted nod to celebrate how special Lucy is to the Oxford Manor family.

”We did wonder what would happen at midnight,” said Oxford Manor’s activities coordinator Kate, “but Lucy kept both slippers firmly on!”

Lucy moved to Oxford Manor in January 2022, just months after the home first opened, and has been a cherished member of the home ever since, with staff describing her as “a joy to be around, full of stories and a cheeky sense of humour.“

During World War II, she served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service at Vauxhall Barracks in Didcot, supporting the army with essential supplies. She later worked as a bookkeeper at a local canning factory and travelled the world - from New Zealand, Canada, the USA, and even partway up Mount Everest.

Oxford Manor Care Home is a purpose-built home providing residential, nursing, and specialist dementia care in a welcoming, luxury setting. Now operating under new management, the home has welcomed this new chapter with a renewed focus and commitment to delivering highquality care, personalised support and lifestyle-led experiences for residents.

On her birthday, Lucy received a generous number of birthday cards and gifts and spent the morning with her close-knit family. Later in the afternoon, Lucy joined fellow residents in the lounge

cuddle with Rosie the dog, a regular visitor to the home.

More Scoops Per Tin Means Fewer Tins Per Prescription

CATERING FOR CARE

Food for Thought - The Implications of New Simpler Recycling Regulations on the Care Home Sector

From March 31st, new waste disposal regulations came into effect as part of the Government’s Simpler Recycling initiative.

Designed to reduce waste and increase recycling rates across the country, this has direct and potentially significant implications for the care home and nursing home sector. Anenta, the UK’s leading independent healthcare waste management specialist for the care home sector, explains to issues at hand.

Under the news Simpler Recycling regulations, in addition to segregating clinical waste and offensive waste into separate waste streams, care homes now have a legal duty to separate out all recyclable materials from general waste.

Paper and card, plastic, glass, metal, and food waste all need to be separated and stored in segregated waste collection streams, necessitating larger storage areas, more waste receptacles, and more waste collections.

Although this has implications and associated costs, the new regulations are important because incorrectly disposed waste not only puts a strain on England’s waste capacity – hampering sustainable waste targets – but also significantly adds to the cost of care home waste bills.

FOOD FRUSTRATION

Of all the new waste streams, food waste is likely to be one of the biggest headaches for care homes. That’s because if you produce more than 5kg of food waste per week, you will need to implement a separate food waste disposal system.

Food is a particularly significant form of waste for most care homes as it’s almost impossible to avoid when catering for residents.

In some cases, care homes will have good protocols in place for uneat-

en or waste food, with collections for anaerobic digestion or composting in place. However, for many others this will not be the case, quite simply because it’s always been easier to put waste food into general waste.

And while food waste from canteens or communal eating areas may be relatively easy to collect and recycle, it’s important to remember that a significant amount of other food waste – resulting from items being consumed by both staff and residents in other areas – have the potential to end up in general waste too. Under the new rules that cannot be allowed to happen and that means you now need to make separate food waste bins readily available in public areas.

WHAT IF YOU DON’T COMPLY?

Under the new legislation, if you put food waste into the wrong bins, your supplier will not be permitted to collect them. However, you’ll still be charged, and repeated non-compliance could result in fines or other penalties, which could be as high as £5,000 or more.

To avoid this, you’ll not only need to have sufficient food waste bins in place within your care home, but appropriate training to ensure that all staff are aware of the importance of segregating waste correctly. Here, appropriate signage is also advised to avoid any confusion.

You’ll also need to ensure that food waste collected within your care home – including inedible food parts such as bones, eggshells, fruit and vegetable skins, tea bags and coffee grounds – actually make it into the designated food waste bin for collection.

When you consider that general waste for care homes costs anything between £180 and £250 a tonne, whereas food waste – collected for

Temporary Catering Facilities from MK

Mobile Kitchens Ltd specialises in the hire or sale of temporary catering facilities and foodservice equipment. Ideal for events or to provide temporary catering facilities during your kitchen refurbishment, our versatile units and equipment offer an efficient and economic solution to the caterers’ needs.

Production Kitchens, Preparation Kitchens, Ware-washing Units, Dry Store Units, Cold Rooms and Restaurant Units are available as individual units in their own right or they can be linked together on site to form a complete complex.

Alternatively, we can offer modular, open-plan facilities, usually for larger, longer-term hires.

We offer a free design service, and project management from concept through to delivery and installation on site, plus full technical support throughout the hire period.

The standard specification of our smallest Production Kitchen unit includes a six burner oven range, sala-

anaerobic digestion – costs between £105 to £190 per tonne, it simply doesn’t make sense to continue putting food in your general waste.

Quite apart from avoiding large fines – which could affect your reputation – switching from using the general waste stream for food disposal to anaerobic digestion will save your business anything between 8% and 16%. That’s a saving of £60-£120 per 1,100 litre bin per annum. For care home groups with multiple locations, that’s a saving that soon mounts up.

So, far from being a bad thing financially, the new recycling regulations actually have the potential to bring about long-term cost savings for care homes throughout England. Viewed through that lens switching to segregation makes complete sense.

But it’s not the only benefit. By diverting your food waste from general waste into a separate food waste recycling stream, it can be reprocessed through anaerobic digestion to create organic fertiliser and biogas, helping your business move one step closer to becoming zero-to-landfill and achieving your environmental targets.

This avoids your care home food ending up in landfill where it would release methane, a gas which, according to the UN Environmental Programme, is 80 times more harmful than carbon dioxide

Adopting this process will help to ensure that the correct waste goes into the correct channels, saving your care home money, keeping you compliant, minimising environmental impact, and avoiding inadvertent contamination that could cause issues with your waste collection, leading to extra cost, and stringent action by the authorities.

Far from being feared, the new Simpler Recycling regulations should be embraced, saving your care home money and playing a part in saving the future of the planet.

For guidance and advice on how to meet the Simpler Recycling Workplace Rules, and for information on the best systems to adopt for waste storage and collection, email Anenta at contact@anenta.com or call 033 0122 2143. www.anentawaste.com

mander grill, twin basket fryer, upright fridge, hot cupboard, single bowl sink unit with integral hand wash basin, plus ample power points to plug in Microwaves, Food Processors, Toasters etc. Internal equipment can be interchanged and clients can effectively specify their preferred layout.

We have many tried and tested design layouts and would be pleased to put forward our recommendations for your project.

So if you’re planning a refurbishment or need to cater for an event then why not give us a call and we’ll be happy to provide advice and put forward a competitive proposal.

For further information or to arrange a site visit, email: sales@mk-hire.co.uk or call us on 0345 812 0800, or visit our website: www.mk-hire.co.uk

Bidfood Launches Industry

Following the British Dietetic Association’s (BDA) rollout of the Care Home Digest last year, Bidfood, one of the UK’s leading wholesalers, has produced an industry-leading, four-weekly menu cycle, aligned with the Care Home Digest.

Designed to support care operators in implementing the guidelines, the menu cycle offers unrivalled inspiration for Bidfood’s care customers, featuring over 300 Care Home Digest-aligned recipes available for download.

Until last year, healthcare foodservice guidelines were mainly aimed at hospitals, leaving care operators, many of which don’t have access to a dietitian, without tailored resource to support with menu planning.

However, using the new Digest, Bidfood’s expert chef and nutrition team have collaborated to develop this extensive bank of recipes and four-week menu cycle. The cycle demonstrates how operators can align their menus to meet the unique needs and preferences of their individual residents, incorporating food waste tips and a variety of dish types to suit a range of kitchen skill levels.

The menu plan features a balance of food groups including both animal and plant-based proteins, higher-fibre carbohydrates, “healthy” fats and plenty of fruit and vegetables, maximising levels of key nutrients such as protein, fibre and essential vitamins and minerals. The team have also worked hard to reduce sources of saturated fat, free sugars and salt where

possible.

What’s more, every recipe has been nutritionally analysed and adjusted, tweaking both the ingredients used and the quantities, to ensure that nutrition is prioritised whilst also balancing taste, cost and other factors.

Nutrition Manager, Heather Dolan said “At Bidfood we pride ourselves on an evidence-based approach to nutrition, so we were delighted when the BDA’s Care Home Digest was released. We’ve been working on this menu ever since, with the aim of helping care homes to implement the Digest, and ultimately, supporting them in meeting residents’ nutrition and hydration needs.

“It’s been a pleasure collaborating with our healthcare chefs on this project. They’ve brought a wealth of culinary expertise and creative flair to the project. Together, I believe we’ve struck the perfect balance of classic dishes and fresh, innovative concepts.”

To view the four week menu cycle, please visit https://view.bidfood.co.uk/bidfoods-four-weeklymenu-cycle/?page=1

The British Dietetic Association’s Care Home Digest was created to support care homes in developing varied and balanced menus that will tempt residents to eat and drink well, whilst being designed as a toolkit that makes it easy for care operators to dip in and out of chapters as needed. For more information on the Care Home Digest, visit www.bidfood.co.uk/blog/what-you-need-to-knowabout-the-new-bda-care-home-digest/

CATERING FOR CARE

Birchall Foodservice Launches 62-Page

Activity Pack To Support The Care Sector

Burnley-based wholesaler and founder Country Range member, Birchall Foodservice, has launched its first-ever Care Home Activity Pack — a 62-page guide designed to support activity coordinators and caterers working within the healthcare sectors.

Recognising the challenges that care home teams face in delivering engaging, enjoyable, and meaningful activities for residents, the pack offers a comprehensive range of creative ideas built around food. Its aim is simple: to spark joy and connection through shared experiences that centre on mealtimes, cultural celebrations, and interactive activities.

At the heart of the pack is a month-by-month events calendar, highlighting key seasonal dates such as Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Remembrance Sunday — each paired with activity suggestions, food ideas, games, and even suggested decorations. These are supported by easy-to-follow recipes and product recommendations.

Popular food-themed games include Biscuit Jenga, Build Your Own Pizza nights, and Food Bingo, which are designed to encourage motor skills, social interaction, and laughter. There's also a "World on a Plate" section, offering immersive cultural experiences for countries including Italy, Mexico, Spain, France, China, and the UK — complete with themed menus, music ideas, and crafts.

To help tackle hydration in fun and engaging ways, the pack features ideas such as mocktail parties, milkshake decorating, and “Guess the Drink” challenges — all designed to improve fluid intake without it feeling like a chore.

Joe Moulton, Marketing Manager at Birchall Foodservice, said: "This pack combines food and fun to help care homes deliver meaningful activities that residents will genuinely enjoy. It’s all about sparking joy through shared experiences, whether that’s a themed afternoon tea or a game of Food Bingo."

The pack has been developed with support from trusted foodservice brands including Albany, Soreen, McVitie’s, Kellogg’s, Lakeland Dairies, and Nestlé. It offers a mix of inspiration and practicality, helping care teams save valuable planning time while delivering enriching experiences. Available now to all Birchall Foodservice customers and care homes across the UK, the pack is free to download.

To access the Care Home Activity Pack, visit: www.birchallfoodservice.co.uk/resources or get in touch with the Birchall team by calling 01282 429446.

Good Health Starts with Good Hydration

Jelly Drops (backed by the Alzheimer's Society through their Innovation Accelerator programme) have announced a new 288 pot ‘bulk’ pack for the care sector allowing care homes and in-home agencies to buy in bulk at a reduced rate, ahead of the anticipated warmer summer weather. These award-winning water sweets with added electrolytes boost hydration for people living with dementia and others that struggle to adequately hydrate. By eating two to three pots of Jelly Drops throughout the day, residents with hydration challenges can easily top up their fluid intake in a dignified and independent way.

Dehydration is a common challenge for people living with dementia and aspects like memory problems, potential lack of dexterity and/or avoiding drinks due to fear of incontinence or confusion about where

the toilet is, can all make individuals more susceptible to the dangers of dehydration. Conversely, being well hydrated supports brain function, reduces the risk of urinary tract infections (UTI’s) and unnecessary hospital visits. Even mild dehydration can significantly impact an individual’s wellbeing when they are already dealing with cognitive challenges like dementia.

Jelly Drops have supported over 100,000 families since being developed by Lewis Hornby for his late Grandma Pat who struggled with staying hydrated whilst living with dementia.

If you are interested in learning more about the 288 pot ‘bulk’ case of Jelly Drops to support hydration for your residents or clients,, please contact hello@jellydrops.com

Introducing the Treat-Eezi Pressure Relieving Mattress Overlay from Dan Medica South Ltd

The Treat-Eezi full length pressure relieving mattress overlay (very high risk to stage 4 pressure ulcers) is designed to be laid on top of mattresses. It naturally and gently moves with the patient creating an almost zero chafing area allowing the patient a silent, comfortable sleep along with the assurance any pressure sores present are given the best possible chance to breathe and heal.

Quotations available via checkout.

£241.40p (Exclusive of VAT)

PRODUCT BENEFITS

• Precision Relief: Using advanced 3D pressure sensor mapping, our pressure-relieving mattress overlays provide targeted relief by accurately identifying pressure points, ensuring optimal support for patients.

• Pressure Relief: Our unique 4-layer pressure-relieving mattress overlays offer unique pressure sore prevention, trusted by over 10,000 medical professionals since 2016.

• Sleep Benefits: No noisy pump systems; our static solution guarantees a peaceful sleep environment, free from disruptions or maintenance hassles and allows the patient to sleep with their partner.

• Breathability: Enhanced breathability ensures optimal airflow for keeping patients comfortable and cool.

• Endorsements and Warranty: Backed by endorsements from NHS community services and a full two-year warranty.

• Easy Application: Our pressure-relieving mattress overlays have easy-to-follow instructions.

WHO IS IT FOR

The Treat-Eezi full-length pressure relieving mattress overlay is ideal for individuals who spend prolonged periods in bed or seated, including:

• Elderly individuals with limited mobility

• Patients recovering from surgery or injury

• Those at risk of developing pressure sores

• Caregivers looking to enhance comfort for their loved

ones

Sales/General Inquiries: 0208 133 2851 www.danmedicasouth.co.uk

See the advert on page 11 for more information.

Novamed - Incontinence and Healthcare Products

At Novamed, we understand the daily challenges that incontinence brings.

With that in mind, our specialist team, which includes a retired NHS continence nurse, have developed a premium product range designed to give users comfort, protection, and dignity, as well as being manufactured to ISO 13485 quality standards. Our comprehensive incontinence care solutions include: All-in-one (slips) for moderate to heavy use Pull-up pants for light to moderate needs Disposable underpads to protect beds and furniture

• Biodegradable bamboo pads for light protection with an eco-conscious approach Each product provides skin-friendliness, odour

control, and ease of use. With consistent quality and comfort, Novamed are trusted by care professionals across the UK. Our Devon-based warehouse ensures fast, discreet delivery throughout the country. We offer free samples to help you assess the best fit. Novamed products are also trusted internationally, with distribution in Gibraltar, Montenegro, the Middle East, and Europe. For continence care you can depend on, contact Novamed today to learn more or request your free samples 0808 196 2070 www.novamedpads.co.uk info@novamedeurope.com

See the advert on page 4 for details.

CareZips® Classic Adaptive Pants

CareZips® Classic are patented, easy dressing unisex adaptive pants designed for older and disabled people suffering with problems associated with continence, mobility, mental function and cognition. Suitable for persons living in care institutions, receiving care at home or living independently at home, CareZips® Classic enable people to dress themselves or with assistance from carers.

CareZips® Classic feature patented 3-zipper system, which opens the front of the pants from the waist to the knees for quicker access during toileting, continence pads changes and personal hygiene.

The forward positioning of the two side zippers lessens pressure on sensitive hip areas, helping to eliminate discomfort. The third zipper facilitates simple full frontal opening for faster more dignified diaper changes, catheter adjustments, personal cleansing and hygiene routines.

CareZips® Classic have many benefits for the older and disabled users and their carers:

• People dressing themselves enjoy the practical

TDP Outdoor Furniture

Based in Derbyshire, we’re a family-run business with over 30 years of experience committed to helping care homes create safe, welcoming outdoor spaces for residents, staff and visitors.

We offer a wide range of garden furniture, including benches, companion seats, dining sets, picnic tables and planters, all crafted to be strong, durable and splinter-free. Unlike traditional timber, our furniture won’t rot, warp, or require painting, making it a low-maintenance, long-term solution for care environments.

Our products support the circular economy by transforming waste plastic into something both functional and stylish. Each piece is made here in the UK and built to withstand all weathers, year after year. In recognition of our sustainable practices, we’ve been awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. Here’s what Darley Hall Care Home had to say

Watch your resident's eyes light up when the 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! Visit the website at www.euroservice-uk.com to see the full range.

Or see the advert on page 13.

Angloplas Dispensers Help Reduce the Risk of Cross Infection

Angloplas are a UK manufacturer who specialise in producing dispensers for the health and hygiene industry. Although these are designed to keep the workplace tidy and uncluttered they are, more importantly, built knowing the control of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) are a priority for healthcare providers, and who are employing a combination of infection prevention and control strategies, including hand hygiene, cleaning, training and the adoption of new technologies, to tackle the problem.

As a result, a wide range of infection control products and technologies are emerging on the market, including antimicrobial technology. Angloplas’ range of dispensers are produced in the world’s first

proven Antimicrobial PVC with silver ion technology and which is exclusive to Angloplas. This helps reduce the risk of cross infection by stopping the growth of bacteria and mould and works continuously for the lifetime of the product, reducing levels of bacteria such as MRSA, E Coli, Legionella, Salmonella and mould by up to 99.99%.

For non-clinical environments Angloplas has recently launched its new Budget Range of products which are made to the same exacting standards as the antimicrobial protected ones but with lower price tags.

You can order Angloplas products directly from its website at www.angloplas.co.uk

See the advert on page 9.

functionality and versatility of the CareZips® Classic, all day comfort and easy garment care.

• People dependent on assisted dressing appreciate quick easy dressing process with less stress, embarrassment and greater dignity offered by CareZips® Classic.

• CareZips® Classic offer practical gains to the carers, helping them to provide better care, whilst reducing physical efforts and saving valuable time.

CareZips® Classic are unisex, available in 6 sizes and 3 practical colours (i.e. black, charcoal and navy). Tapered fit at the ankles gives a tidy appearance. Made from breathable moisture-wicking 4-way stretchy crease-free and easycare durable fabric, CareZips® Classic are comfortable, practical and conveniently functional. For more information, contact Win Health Medical Ltd - 01835 864866www.win-health.com

See the advert on page 3 for further information on Win Health’s product range.

Since our founding in 2010, Activities to Share has been dedicated to enhancing the lives of those in care by providing thoughtfully designed activity products. Our mission is to support activity coordinators in delivering uplifting, engaging experiences that foster connection, joy, and well-being.

We achieve this by listening closely to your feedback and evolving with your needs. Whether over the phone, via email, WhatsApp, or Live Chat on our website, our team is always ready to offer advice and help you find just the right products to bring your ideas to life.

While we embrace the convenience of technology to expand our resources and share knowledge, we remain firm believers in the irreplaceable power of sensory engagement. That’s why we continue to

Share

make our Reminiscence Kits and Sensory Bags with real, tactile items that stimulate the senses. Some experiences— like popping bubbles for the splash, breathing in a familiar scent, or piecing together a puzzle with others—simply can’t be replicated on a screen. These sensory moments are invaluable in encouraging storytelling, sparking memories, and fostering conversation. Our values remain rooted in this commitment to meaningful connection. We’re here to partner with you—the professionals on the front lines of care—to create a sense of structure, well-being, and fun for those who need it most.

for your activity diary

NURSE CALL AND FALLS MONITORING

The Vital Role of Healthcare Nurse Call Monitoring Systems in Care Homes

In the evolving landscape of residential and nursing home care, technology now plays an increasingly pivotal role in enhancing said patient safety, staff responsiveness, and overall operational efficiency.

One of the most critical technologies at the heart of this transformation is the nurse call monitoring system. These systems serve as the backbone of communication between residents and care staff, and their importance cannot be overstated in delivering timely and effective care.

UNDERSTANDING NURSE CALL MONITORING SYSTEMS

A nurse call system enables residents to quickly and easily summon assistance. However, modern systems have evolved far beyond simple buzzers. Today, care facilities can choose from wireless, integrated, and modular systems—each designed to meet different operational needs, with modern solutions now connecting with fall detection sensors, electronic patient records (EPR), and mobile caregiver apps. This integration not only streamlines workflows but also helps care homes meet Care Quality Commission (CQC) compliance requirements while delivering faster, more personalised care.

Wireless Systems are ideal for facilities seeking flexibility and ease of installation. Without the need for extensive cabling, these systems can be deployed rapidly and expanded as needed.

Integrated Systems tie into a facility’s broader infrastructure—such as fire alarms, CCTV, and building management systems—allowing for a holistic response to emergencies and enhanced safety protocols.

Modular Systems provide a customisable solution, enabling care homes to scale up or down based on the size of the facility or changing care requirements.

TANGIBLE BENEFITS FOR RESIDENTS AND STAFF

The implementation of an advanced nurse call monitoring system delivers measurable benefits across multiple areas:

• Improved Staff Efficiency: With real-time alerts and data analytics, care teams can streamline workflows and focus attention where it’s most needed, reducing unnecessary checks and overlaps.

• Enhanced Patient Safety: Immediate access to assistance reduces the risk of falls, unattended health episodes, and delayed medication administration.

• Greater Resident Satisfaction: Prompt responses foster a sense of security and dignity among residents, improving their overall experience.

Operational Cost Savings: Efficient use of staff resources and reduced emergency incidents contribute to long-term financial sustainability for care providers.

LOOKING AHEAD: A STANDARD FOR QUALITY CARE

As regulatory expectations and resident needs continue to rise, nurse call monitoring systems are no longer a luxury but a necessity. They not only support compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards but also set the tone for a culture of responsive, resident-centred care.

Implementing a nurse call system offers numerous benefits, including improved communication, enhanced safety, increased staff efficiency, better resource allocation, and improved documentation. These advantages contribute to a higher quality of care, improved patient/resident satisfaction, and a more efficient and effective healthcare environment

Investing in the right system requires careful evaluation of a care home’s size, staffing levels, and longterm care strategy. However, the return on investment—in terms of safety, efficiency, and satisfaction—makes it one of the most impactful upgrades a care home can undertake.

In today’s care environment, technology must work in harmony with human compassion.

Nurse call monitoring systems exemplify this synergy, serving as a quiet but powerful ally in the mission to deliver safe, dignified, and effective care.

Frequency Precision - Sensors and Pressure Mats to Monitor Those in Care

Technology has made people more connected with the world around them and the revolution in assistive care devices has made it possible for the elderly to spend their last years in a comfortable and familiar environment. These devices have also made it easier for home carers to provide quality care for their loved ones while managing their own lives. They allow you to care for your elderly whether they are travelling in the city for errands, staying alone at home, or staying in the same home as you. They are also helping nursing homes provide better care for them with discrete monitoring and quick responses to emergencies.

If you’re looking for these kinds of assistive care devices for your loved ones or nursing home, Frequency Precision produce some of the best systems available to help you with elderly care and mobility monitoring, ranging from bed, chair and floor sensor mats through fall monitoring and GPS tracking to fully integrated nurse call plug or wireless systems.

Phone: 01837 810590

Email: contact@frequencyprecision.com

Website: www.frequencyprecision.com

Blaucomm Ltd - Telecommunications & Networks

Blaucomm’s Nurse Call Messaging Service (NMS) is the market leading solution to remove the dependency on noisy nurse call panels and pagers, through its intelligent software, which delivers the alerts straight to the care staff who need them.

Care homes are rapidly introducing smartphones for digital care planning and eMar - now, the same devices can be used to receive the nurse call alerts they need for the residents under their care.

Furthermore, Blaucomm NMS is deeply linked into Person Centred Software MCM, so call bell data is linked straight to care plans. This unlocks a huge benefit to care homes to enhance the staff performance with how they accept and respond to residents, which ultimate-

ly promotes better response times and visibility for management to audit their performance.

The best part is that Blaucomm NMS links into your existing nurse call system - we work with all major brands such as Aidcall, ARM, Courtney Thorne, C-TEC, ENS, Intercall, Medicare, SAS and TeleAlarm.

Care operators are constantly recognising Blaucomm NMS for its reliability and dependability to their care operations, which is why we’ve been chosen time and time again over other solutions.

Head of IT Trudi Harrow at WCS Care had this to say about Blaucomm NMS:

“We find Blaucomm is a genuinely fantastic company with a reliable product.

"We would highly recommend this to anybody who wants to replace expensive pagers and silence those annoyingly loud nurse call screens!” To find out more about Blaucomm NMS, visit www.blaucomm.co.uk/healthcare

Fall Savers - Affordable Fall Monitoring Solutions

Fall Savers®, are an experienced market leading healthcare provider of resident safety solutions for over 15 years.

FALL SAVERS ® WIRELESS MONITOR

Eliminate all cables with our new generation falls management solutions!

Upgrade your falls programme with the latest technology from Fall Savers®. The NEW Fall Savers® Wireless eliminates the cord between the monitor and sensor pad. This results in less work for nursing staff, improved safety for patients and reduced wear and tear on sensor pads. Wireless advantages include the ability to use one monitor with two sensor pads simultaneously and support for many new wireless devices. BENEFITS INCLUDE:

Safer for patients; less work for staff

Bed and chair pads available

One monitor works with two sensor pads

Integrates with most nurse call systems

A variety of options, including: Call button

sensor mat Wireless door/window exit alerts TREADNOUGHT ®FLOOR SENSOR PAD

The TreadNought® Floor Sensor Pad is built to last with a durable construction that far out lasts the competition. Our anti-bacterial floor sensor pad is compatible with most nurse call systems or can be used with a portable pager to sound an alert when a person steps on to the sensor pad. Caregivers typically place the sensor

pad at the bedside, in a doorway or other locations to monitor persons at risk for falls or wandering. An optional anti-slip mesh reduces the potential for slippage on hard surface floors.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

Connects directly to most nurse call systems

High Quality anti-bacterial Floor Sensor Pad

Large Size Pad: Measures (L) 91cm x (H) 61cm

Options (sold separately): Anti-slip mesh for hard surface floors

See the advert on this page for further details or visit www.fallsavers.co.uk.

NURSE CALL AND FALLS

Innovative Fall Prevention Solutions by Medpage: A Comprehensive Look

Falls are a significant concern for vulnerable individuals, especially seniors and patients at risk. Medpage, a leader in assistive technology, offers a range of cuttingedge products designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind for caregivers and families. Here’s an in-depth look at some of their standout solutions:

MPRCG1 (2023) BED LEAVING DETECTION ALARM WITH CAREGIVER RADIO PAGER

The MPRCG1 is a comprehensive system tailored for fall prevention in domestic, commercial, and NHS care settings. This all-inclusive kit includes a bed pressure mat sensor, a BTX21-MP alarm sensor transmitter, and an MP-PAG31 radio pager. The system is designed to alert caregivers when a patient leaves their bed, reducing the risk of falls. Key features include:

Wireless Alerts: Notifications are sent to the caregiver’s pager via tone or vibration.

Customizable Alarm Delays: Options for instant, 15-minute, or 30-minute delays.

Durable Design: Antimicrobial and disinfectant-resistant materials ensure longevity.

• Ease of Use: Minimal installation required, making it user-friendly and portable.

HDKMB2 HOSPITAL DISCHARGE KIT FOR FALLS RISK PATIENTS

monitoring capabilities of healthcare facilities. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any care environment, ensuring timely responses to patient needs.

RON-WC2 WATERPROOF DISABLED PULL CORD ALARM TRANSMITTER WITH WIRELESS ALARM RECEIVER

The RON-WC2 is a robust solution for disabled individuals requiring immediate assistance. This waterproof pull cord alarm is ideal for use in bathrooms and other high-risk areas. Paired with a wireless alarm receiver, it ensures that help is just a pull away.

Features include:

Waterproof Design: Suitable for wet environments.

Wireless Connectivity: Reliable transmission to the alarm receiver.

Ease of Installation: Simple setup for quick deployment.

WHY CHOOSE MEDPAGE?

Medpage’s commitment to innovation and quality is evident in their product range. Each solution is designed with the user’s safety and convenience in mind, making them a trusted choice for caregivers and healthcare providers alike.

The HDKMB2 is a thoughtfully curated kit aimed at supporting patients transitioning from hospital to home care. It includes essential tools to mitigate fall risks and promote recovery. This kit is ideal for caregivers seeking a comprehensive solution to enhance patient safety during the critical post-discharge period.

CMEX-21 MULTI-PORT WIRELESS SENSOR INPUT EXPANDER FOR NURSE CALL CONNECTION

The CMEX-21 is Medpage’s latest innovation, designed to integrate seamlessly with existing nurse call systems. This multi-port expander allows for the connection of multiple wireless sensors, enhancing the

By investing in these advanced fall prevention tools, families and facilities can create safer environments for those at risk. Medpage continues to lead the way in providing practical, reliable solutions that make a real difference.

For more information, visit Medpage’s official website or contact their team to explore these products further. Safety starts with the right tools, and Medpage delivers just that. www.easylinkuk.co.uk

T: 01536 264 869

Courtney Thorne Leads the Way in Wireless Nurse Call Technology for UK Care Homes

Courtney Thorne, a long-standing innovator in healthcare communication systems, is setting new standards in the care home sector with its advanced wireless nurse call technology—designed to improve resident safety, enhance staff efficiency, and support a more responsive care environment.

With over 30 years of experience serving the UK healthcare market, Courtney Thorne’s systems are now trusted by thousands of care homes nationwide. Unlike traditional hardwired solutions, their wireless nurse call systems offer non-invasive installation, scalability, and smart analytics—making them ideal for both new builds and retrofit projects.

“At the heart of our technology is the belief that better communication leads to better care,” says Graham Vickrage, Managing Director at Courtney Thorne. “Our wireless systems not only reduce response times but also empower staff

with the tools they need to deliver safe, person-centred care.”

Care providers are increasingly choosing wireless systems for their flexibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. With a full suite of accessories—including neck pendants, door monitors, fall detection, and bed sensors—Courtney Thorne systems can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each home and resident.

In an industry where compliance, safety, and staff pressures are always front of mind, Courtney Thorne provides more than just products—they offer ongoing support, training, and a commitment to innovation that helps care homes futureproof their operations.

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

Shaking Up Social Care with PASSgenius™: The Future of Care Management

The social care sector is under increasing pressure. Tightening regulations, financial strain and staff shortages are leading providers to rethink their approach.

In response, PASS by everyLIFE has launched PASSgenius™, a transformative suite of AI, data and automation tools built directly into its award-winning care management software. This innovation is set to revolutionise how care businesses operate, making it easier to deliver safe, person-centred care while driving efficiency.

At its core, PASSgenius™ is built to simplify complex roster and care data and quickly turn it into actionable insights, like when your next staffing gap is, concerning changes in customer wellbeing, and what routes can be optimised to reduce travel times.

Care operators already hold great amounts of information, and through this new suite they can leverage its full power to make smarter, faster decisions to run a better, more efficient care business.

EMPOWERING CARE TEAMS WITH AI AND AUTOMATION

One of the standout features of PASSgenius™ is its AI-powered care note summaries. This tool can scan weeks of care logs in seconds, highlighting crucial changes in a client's health or behaviour. It enables care teams to identify potential risks earlier and act swiftly. Instead of manually combing through records, users get concise summaries and smart recommendations, ensuring more efficient and responsive care. This not only promotes continuity of care between shifts but also provides care staff and clients with an enhanced experience.

REAL-TIME OVERSIGHT AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

At the heart of PASSgenius™ is the Dashboard, a fully interactive and customisable tool that gives managers real-time oversight across key performance areas. Whether it's tracking required care hours, spotting gaps in rosters, managing unassigned visits, or monitoring travel time and punctuality, this feature makes it easy to stay on top of the daily demands of care management. With live data in one view, managers can address issues immediately, without the need for multiple systems or spreadsheets.

STREAMLINING ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS

The Benefits of AI in Social Care

The social care sector has come a long way when it comes to digital transformation, and artificial intelligence (AI) is a big part of its future. While AI is still finding its place in many care settings, the impact it can have is huge.

Here’s a closer look at why AI is set to make waves in social care:

1. BOOSTING EFFICIENCY

AI can help handle those resource-draining tasks in seconds. Whether it’s crunching a mountain of data, summarising care notes, or suggesting next steps, it frees up your team to do what they do best.

It can also improve communication, such as helping new team members quickly access policies or answer routine questions without waiting for assistance. By handling these background tasks, AI allows organisations to redirect resources to other core priorities.

2. ENSURING PERSON-CENTRED CARE

AI can support your teams when providing persona-centred care by analysing data over time, so they can build tailored plans that align with each individual’s goals, preferences, and abilities. It can even predict future needs, flagging issues before they arise so your

team can act proactively.

3. ENHANCED MONITORING

Care organisations often operate round-the-clock, and AI can offer real-time monitoring to support this. For example, AI can highlight subtle behavioural changes, like someone sleeping poorly or becoming more withdrawn. These insights can alert your teams to potential concerns early, which means better, faster decisions can be made to support your clients.

For organisations, this level of tracking ensures care quality stays high, without adding to the workload. It’s like having an extra layer of support that’s always on duty.

4. EMPOWERING TEAMS

AI is here to help empower your care teams, not replace them. AI tools can provide instant recommendations or resources, which could help your newer employees confidently manage unexpected situations. Similarly, AI can assist with summarising care notes or giving quick access to up-to-date best practices, helping your teams provide the high-quality care they work so hard to deliver.

5. OPTIMISING COSTS

Beyond care delivery, the feature also includes a suite of automation tools that help with time-consuming tasks such as payroll calculations, invoicing and timesheet verification. In-built reminders and alerts help keep teams on top of compliance, while automated workflows reduce paperwork and improve consistency across the board. This reduces paperwork and administrative burden, freeing up time for what really matters – providing the best care possible.

A PLATFORM THAT EVOLVES WITH YOU

PASSgenius™ is built directly within the PASS platform, eliminating the need for additional software or bolt-ons. This powerful suite is available at no extra cost to existing All-in-one PASS users, with new features and updates set for release throughout 2025.

Duncan Campbell, Commercial Director at PASS by everyLIFE, said: “PASSgenius™ is more than just a feature update – it’s a transformative shift in how care services operate. By combining live data, automation and AI, we are providing care teams with the tools they need to run stronger, more efficient services.”

For more information and to see PASSgenius™ in action, visit www.everylifetechnologies.com/passgenius.

One of the big wins of AI is its ability to do more with less. By automating tasks and making resource allocation more efficient, it can help organisations manage tight budgets without compromising on care.

AI can even help reduce staff turnover by easing workload pressures, which means savings on recruitment and training costs too. Plus, because AI solutions are scalable, it can adapt to your organisation's needs.

THE FUTURE OF AI IN CARE

AI in social care isn’t about replacing people with tech. It’s about giving your teams the time, insights, and tools they need to focus on the people they care for. That’s why OneAdvanced AI, the first UK hosted fully secure, private AI tool for businesses, was created. OneAdvanced AI can help care providers improve efficiency, deliver person-centred care, and empower teams, all while safeguarding your data. This marks a significant step towards a more innovative and sustainable future in social care.

Find out more at: www.oneadvanced.com/ai

See the advert on the back cover of this issue for further info.

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Digital Technology and AI Can Support Workers with Dementia

People with dementia can enjoy productive and rewarding working lives in the digital era, contrary to the widespread stereotype that dementia is incompatible with the use of modern technology, according to new research from the University of Bath.

The study - Working lives with dementia: A digital futures perspective – argues that the digital revolution risks exacerbating inequalities amongst those with diverse needs but that organisations can and should develop, adapt and deploy digital technology and the working environment to help those with dementia to continue in employment.

“The bottom line is that we have an ageing population and workforce in which dementia will feature and which should, and can be, accommodated by the judicious use of digital technology and adapting working conditions. The reality is, this is not dealt with in any meaningful way right now – there are very rarely strategies in place,” said Dr James Fletcher of the University of Bath School of Management.

“There is widespread prejudice that those with dementia cannot cope with, or benefit from, digital technology, and they often get bundled into the same category as the oldest people. But it’s worth putting some perspective on this – an experienced 60-year-old employee with early stage dementia will have grown up through the digital, internet and social media revolutions – and with the right support, they will still have much to offer,” Dr Fletcher said.

The study was published as the UK government announced its welfare reform plans, part of which is to encourage more disabled people into work. Dr Fletcher said he hoped the research could be a useful example of the prospects and challenges of fulfilling that goal.

Dr Fletcher noted that quite simple adjustments to the working environment, such as improving workstation lighting, using appropriate fonts and colour schemes, and providing workers with calendars, voice activated controls, and automatic reminders could make a big difference for somebody diagnosed with dementia.

“And AI offers really interesting opportunities – it is superb at solving many of the problems faced by those with dementia, such as finding words, organising text and putting words in the right sequence. Couple that with the potential offered by hybrid working for those with dementia, and you can see the benefits for both employees and companies,” he said.

Dr Fletcher and his co-researcher Dr Olivia Brown argue that dementia is not inherently disabling and that its impact depends heavily on the environment and surroundings in which an employee is operating. Employers might consider, for example, that an employee with dementia may be able to access a building with a swipe card but may be foiled if access relies on codes that they have to remember.

“We need to approach this in the way we already respond to people with diverse needs, which is already familiar to most employees. Also, there is a misplaced tendency to see a dementia diagnosis in black and white terms when the reality is, the effects can vary day-to-day and hour-to-hour depending on environment and relationships,” Dr Brown said.

Dr Fletcher said that employees could suffer tremendous stress from a dementia diagnosis and disclosing this to their employer, with some developing strategies to conceal their condition. He said that, while we lack good statistics, it appears that the ‘vast majority’ of those diagnosed with dementia go into unemployment, often unwillingly.

“There are many who could stay in the workforce and don’t. And this is not just an issue for older people –growing numbers of younger people are being diagnosed,” he said.

The researchers noted that dementia is often considered to be a post-retirement phenomenon, but estimates suggest that 9% of the 35.6 million people worldwide with dementia are under 65 years of age, with around 370,000 new cases of young onset dementia annually.

Care Audit Tool the Next Generation of Audit Software

Technology is a key part of the CQC’s improvement agenda; especially when it comes to how care services record performance during inspections.

THE PROBLEM

Many care providers want to move away from pen and paper-based audits and spreadsheets, but most software lacks the capability and flexibility to handle the complexity of the CQC requirements and ratings structure – leading to gaps in oversight and accountability.

THE SOLUTION

Drawing on our experience providing CQC improvement support, we developed an easy-to-use care audit platform designed to help care providers stay on top of their compliance obligations with the user in mind and the CQC framework at its core.

Our Enterprise Care Audit Tool enables care providers to improve oversight and respond to CQC requirements with confidence — delivering greater visibility, accountability, and control.

Now, we’ve made that same expertise and capability more accessible.

Our new cloud-based version is built on the same trusted foundation, giving providers of all sizes a faster, more flexible way to manage compliance with ease.

KEY FEATURES

• CQC-Aligned Dashboard - View audit outcomes and actions against CQC rating thresholds, with drill-down visibility for full organisational oversight.

• 100+ Ready-to-Use Audits - Covering all core operational areas including Care, Health & Safety, Estates, Catering, HR, and more.

• 2,000+ Question Library - Choose from a comprehensive library of questions, each aligned to statutory regulations and the CQC inspection framework.

• Automated Action Management - Audit outcomes that require follow-up are automatically fed into the dashboard and actions portal for clear accountability and tracking.

Reporting - Access a suite of structured reports to support internal reviews and inspection readiness.

• Engagement Surveys - Collect feedback from staff, service users, and relatives

STRESS LESS. TRACK MORE. BE READY.

If you’re spending hours chasing paperwork or stressed about being prepared for any inspection any day

- Care Audit Tool can help.

Website: careaudittool.co.uk

Email: info@careaudittool.co.uk

Phone: 0333 577 0807

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

“A Game Changer for Us” – How Technology Enabled Care Reconnected a Mother and Daughter

When Sharon’s mum Monica lost her partner and began struggling with her health, Sharon found herself trying to care from a distance—juggling a demanding job in Exeter with near-daily phone calls and constant worry about her mum, who lives alone with her two dogs in Barnstaple, Devon.

“Mum was always independent, but after losing her partner and being told she needed a hip replacement, she became withdrawn and physically frail. I was constantly worried,” said Sharon.

“I’d ring every morning to check she was up, had taken her pills, had something to eat. It was overwhelming.

“She didn’t want a carer. She insisted she didn’t ‘need care.’ But with living over an hour and a half away, I knew I needed to find some kind of support for both of us.”

Sharon learned about new technology being offered by her employer Bluebird Care N.E.W. Devon in partnership with Access Health, Support and Care (HSC), using discreet technology enabled care (TEC) to provide reassurance without intrusion.

The system, Access Assure, uses non-intrusive smart home devices – no cameras, no recordings – just sensors placed around the home to understand daily routines. Movements like opening a cupboard, boiling the kettle, and general mobility patterns are monitored, with alerts sent to family members if anything out of the ordinary occurs or daily living activity patterns change.

For Sharon, the reassurance was instant and the relief had an immediate positive impact on her own wellbeing.

Article supplied by The Access Group

“Suddenly, I wasn’t waking up worried. I knew Mum was up and moving, when the kettle went on, when she’d opened the medicine cupboard. And I knew I’d be alerted if anything changed for Mum.

“It completely changed our dynamic. I could go back to being her daughter again, not just her carer.”

A Bluebird Care N.E.W Devon professional now visits once a week to check the equipment and provide some company.

What started as a technical check-in is now something Sharon’s mum actively enjoys, helping ease the path toward accepting future care, should she need it.

“I didn’t expect technology to bring us closer,” Sharon reflected. “But it has. When I visit now, we go out, we laugh, we just enjoy each other’s company again.”

The smart system behind Sharon’s peace of mind uses AI to learn her mum’s typical routines and flag any irregularities, like missed medication or disrupted sleep, while preserving her Mum’s privacy.

It’s a lifeline that’s helping more families keep loved ones safe at home, without compromising their dignity or sense of autonomy.

“This has been a game changer for us,” Sharon said. “I’d recommend it to anyone.”

William Flint, Director for Bluebird Care N.E.W Devon said: “Using TEC has changed the way we think about care at home. It’s not just about early intervention or risk reduction, it’s about giving families space to reconnect, to be daughters and sons again for example, not just carers.

“It’s a powerful reminder that the right technology, used in the right way, can be deeply human.”

Andy Sparkes, Managing Director for Access TEC, added: “Access Assure is about more than sensors, smart technology, or even an intelligent dashboard that transforms data into meaningful action.

At its core, it’s about reassurance and restoring peace of mind. Families like Sharon’s shouldn’t have to choose between their loved ones living independently and their safety.

“This technology works quietly in the background, empowering individuals to live fulfilling and meaningful lives in the place they choose, while making sure someone’s always on hand if they need that extra layer of support.”

Following stories like Sharon’s, Bluebird Care N.E.W Devon is now preparing to roll out Access Assure across more of its services, bringing the benefits of technology enabled care to families across the region.

Leading UK Care Management Software Provider Launches Groundbreaking

New Suite Of Data, AI and Automation Tools to Enhance Quality of Social Care

PASS by everyLIFE has announced the launch of PASSgenius™, a powerful new suite of data, AI and automation tools built into its award-winning care management software – marking a major step forward in digital innovation for social care.

Designed to turn complex data into clear, actionable insight, PASSgenius™ helps care providers make faster decisions, plan smarter rotas, reduce admin and stay ahead of risk – using the information they already collect.

Commenting on the launch, Robin Batchelor, CEO of PASS by everyLIFE, said: “Care providers are under more pressure than ever. With PASSgenius™, we’re giving them the tools to unlock the power of the data they already hold, helping them make better decisions, deliver safer care and free up time for what really matters.”

One of the standout features of PASSgenius™ is its AI-powered care note summaries – a tool that can scan weeks of care logs in seconds and highlights key changes in behaviour, health or mobility, helping

teams identify risks earlier and provide more responsive, person-centred support. Instead of reviewing long records manually, users receive concise summaries and recommendations that surface what’s changed and what needs attention, improving both care quality and continuity across shifts. At the heart of the new suite is the PASSgenius™ Dashboard – a fully interactive, customisable dashboard that provides real-time oversight across key performance areas, such as:

• Required hours: Spot gaps in care hours early and plan ahead

• Pending hours: See unassigned visits and fill them faster

• Travel time: Flag long journeys and improve routing

• Punctuality: Track lateness trends and take action sooner

• Cancelled hours: See costly cancellations and reduce repeat offenders

• Missed and overdue visits: Catch missed visits fast and protect care quality

PASSgenius™ is available now at no extra cost to All-in-one PASS users.

To learn more or see PASSgenius™ in action, visit: www.everylifetechnologies.com/passgenius

Gen-Z & Care: Improving the Workplace to Attract the Under-25s

Under-25s (Generation Z) have much to offer the world of care, especially as it progresses. In a constantly adapting industry, young people are key to helping care companies grow with the times, especially surrounding technology.

However, young people make up only 11% of care workers. Why is this? What is keeping Gen-Z from joining and staying in the world of care?

With the average care worker aged 45 and over a quarter of the workforce potentially choosing retirement in the next 10 years, there aren’t enough young workers to pick up the many mantles left behind. With social care already having the highest number of vacancies in the UK, care providers cannot afford for this number to grow and for their workforces to decrease.

Supporting service users is no 9-5 or Monday to Friday job. This alone can be off-putting to the under-25s, who may juggle education and prioritise a larger social life.

This is what Gen-Z values. They have entered the career world understanding the importance of mental health and their worth in the workplace - and they are often viewed negatively for this. But they couldn’t be more correct.

Just as care services get a bad rep for offering a poor work-life balance, Gen-Z gets a bad rep for prioritising a healthy one. You can see the dilemma. So, how can this be fixed?

Irregular, unsociable hours, poor workload management, and low resources can easily lead to poor staff retention. From the most recent

findings in 2021-2022, care saw a high turnover rate of 53% for those under 20 years old while care workers over 60 had a rate of 24%. It’s common for shift-based workers to feel they have very little control over their working lives, leading them to accommodate the shifts they have no say over. Especially due to last-minute scheduling and changes, many shift workers often must change or completely scrap personal plans - or wait until after shifts are allocated - resulting in lives only revolving around work.

As much as someone can be a work-first individual, removing time

By Becky Mundie, RotaCloud (www.rotacloud.com)

for personal and social lives - and simply downtime - can be damaging in the long run, causing stress and mental health issues. Factor in graveyard shifts or being on-call, and the feeling is greatly exacerbated.

Is there any wonder, when combining this with the high workload and responsibility that comes with care, that the under-25s - the generation valuing mental health - make up so few care workers?

There are simple ways to remedy this, however.

Simply offering flexibility, allowing staff to have a say in the days and hours they work, and offering the ability to oversee shifts further in advance, can make all the difference.

Implementing digital automation allows staff to feel more in control of their work and lives. This alone can greatly improve employee experience.

Surprisingly, employee experience can go hand-in-hand with updated technology - and what goes hand-in-hand with technology? The generation that has grown up with it.

Not only does digital automation benefit your service users, employees, and overall business growth, but it will also make your workplace more attractive to the new generation - who, once joining, can make adopting these new technologies and processes all the smoother. Under-25s are the future, as well as new technologies. It’s time to start investing in both.

For further information on RotaCloud, please see the back cover of this issue.

RECRUITMENT

What The End Of The Care Visa Route Means – And What Comes Next

From April 2022, the Health and Care Worker visa route gave UK care providers a desperately needed pipeline to international talent. But with the current Labour Government signalling an end to this route, providers are once again staring into the eye of a workforce storm.

It’s a pivotal moment. The social care sector already faces more than 150,000 vacancies. Labour costs are rising sharply, up to 10% in 2025 alone, driven by increases in the National Living Wage and employer National Insurance contributions. Now, with international recruitment under threat, many operators will see their already narrow options for staffing become even tighter.

Ending the care worker visa route is more than a headline, it has real operational consequences. It’s no secret that providers have leaned heavily on overseas hires to fill roles that remain persistently unattractive to the domestic workforce due to pay, flexibility and public perception.

Cutting off this access will likely drive greater dependence on agency staff, which are not only costly, often commanding 30% premiums, but also disrupt continuity of care and team morale.

Even before this immigration shift, providers were bracing for significant

financial pressure. A typical organisation with a £100m income is already facing £5.5m in additional labour-related costs, including £7m from wage increases and £5m from higher employer NI contributions.

And that’s without factoring in the operational impact of the upcoming Employment Rights Bill. Since April, predictable scheduling, compensation for last-minute changes and stricter zero-hours rules have become mandatory. That means more administrative load, less flexibility and higher staffing costs.

In short, the financial squeeze is very real. And the traditional cost-cutting playbook, reducing staff ratios, asking councils for more funds, or freezing employee benefits, is no longer viable, especially when quality of care and compliance are non-negotiable.

A modern response: smarter operations. So what now?

The good news is that providers aren’t powerless. The most resilient organisations are shifting from reactive crisis management to strategic operational transformation. That means investing in systems that make labour smarter, not just cheaper.

In our latest industry report, we break down how providers are already unlocking significant savings and efficiencies through smarter operations.

Modern shift management platforms, for instance, allow providers to surface open shifts to existing team members quickly, reducing the need to fill gaps with costly agency staff. In one example, agency spend dropped by 38% within four weeks of deploying a new digital scheduling solution.

Additionally, better time tracking tools with geo-fenced clock-ins and payroll integrations have helped providers save up to £4.2m annually by avoiding overpayments and automating manual processes.

Intelligent scheduling systems now also use commissioned hours and

By Abbey Milne, Social Care Lead of Sona (www.getsona.com)

real-time staffing data to avoid both understaffing and costly overstaffing. This has led to 2–5% savings in total labour costs, equivalent to up to £3m for some organisations.

With new compliance demands arriving this year, reducing the administrative burden is critical. Tools that consolidate scheduling, HR and payroll into one workflow can free up hundreds of hours per year, allowing managers to focus on team support and care quality.

This isn’t just about efficiency, it’s about survival. According to a recent Hft and Care England report, a third of providers are now considering exiting the market due to cost pressures and long-term uncertainty. But those who embrace operational transformation stand a chance not just to weather this shift, but to emerge stronger.

At Sona, we help social care providers meet today’s challenges head on, with solutions that drive efficiency, empower teams and elevate care. Advinia, a residential care provider with over 4,000 employees, was spending between £35,000 and £40,000 a week on agency cover. After transforming their internal scheduling strategy, they brought that figure down to £16,000 a week, a change that’s not just financial but operationally transformational.

As leaders, we need to view this moment not just as a policy change but as a call to action. The gap between those who invest in smart systems and those who don’t is widening, and fast. Providers that digitise their operations, empower their teams, and deliver consistently high-quality care will be the ones who thrive in this new era.

While we can’t control the economic landscape, we can control how we adapt. The providers who do so with agility and foresight will help shape the future of social care, not just survive in it.

Quality Staffing Solutions From Nexime Healthcare

We are a leading supplier of comprehensive healthcare staffing solutions to care, residential and nursing homes, hospitals, medical facilities and establishments that need person-centred personnel.

By providing staffing solutions that are both cost-effective and highquality, Nexime Healthcare helps with everything that is required. Our extensive database of experienced Support Workers, Carers, Healthcare Assistants and Nurses of various specialities is available to provide highquality care on demand to our clients for:

• One-off shifts, staff absence and shortfalls (often at very short notice),

• Establishing a new unit, whilst permanent staff are recruited,

• Emergency cover during very busy periods,

• Temporary or permanent positions,

• Regular support to full-time teams,

• Contract or SLA (Service Level Agreement) arrangements.

We’re a one-stop, temporary employment business operating nationwide and providing dependable and experienced Nurses, Healthcare Assistants, Carers, Support Workers, domestic and other types of staff.

We are proud of our values, manners, good timing and a friendly ‘can do’ attitude. We’re professional and our clients know that there’s no substitute for our dependability, reliability and our prices.

Owned and managed by people who have years of experience within the healthcare sector, Nexime Healthcare knows what it takes to match the right staff with clients needs. Using our insights into what is required

for each situation, we provide a service with professionals trained for each and every scenario. With access to a broad network of available staff, we can find the right person for the assignment. Nexime Healthcare will make sure you gain access to the reliability, flexibility and experience that you need to support your own clients. We know how critical these are to you.

What we have always done better than anybody else is to provide the highest quality care staff. We apply internal Quality Assurance Systems, that are continually being improved, during our rigorous hiring process. It is essential to us and our clients that our staff are compliant. 0151 673 1899

info@neximehealthcare.co.uk www.neximehealthcare.co.uk

SOCIAL CARE EXPERTS LAUNCH AN ONLINE MARKETPLACE TO DISRUPT A SECTOR IN CRISIS

Introducing AgoraStaff

A TEAM of experts have come together to disrupt the expensive and complex social care system by launching an ‘app’ to bring care homes/providers and carers together using AI.

AgoraStaff, a temporary staffing app for the social care sector, is the brainchild of Richard Williams-Pears, a longstanding Cornwall councillor and former mayor of St Austell, who saw firsthand the rising costs and inefficiencies in social care.

He teamed up with his wife Jolene, AgoraStaff’s Director of Outstanding Compliance, who has an extensive background in operating theatres, and Janet Shreeve, who brings hands-on care sector experience from running Shreeve Care Services, based in Wiltshire.

Together, they partnered with tech experts Ben Grave and Simon Wetherell —creators of the UK’s leading asbestos management system - to bring the app to life.

Richard said: “Providing care is expensive and it’s even more expensive if a care home, local authority, or other care provider has to pay an agency to find carers, particularly at the last minute. The carer gets minimum wage, or just above and the agency takes a hefty cut on

average around 30% of the fee from the provider.

“We felt there had to be a better way, using modern technology, to speed up this process leaving more money available for carers and providers. So much money is lost on agencies sitting in the middle between providers and carers, our app is designed to cut through this inefficiency.

“We have therefore combined deep sector knowledge with smart tech.”

Janet Shreeve is the Chief Business Development Officer

for AgoraStaff. She said:

“Many carers throughout the UK are self-employed and rely upon agencies to find them suitable shifts. Our marketplace gives them the opportunity to not only register for free but have complete control over the shifts they apply for and undertake.

“We are committed to ensuring the carers within our marketplace are the best professionals for individual roles. We achieve this with a vetting process to ensure they are legally entitled to work in the UK (if relevant) and must register their relevant training. They will also have the option to undertake more training to enhance their rolesa concept not commonly found within traditional agencies.”

AgoraStaff goes live week commencing May 19th in Somerset and the surrounding counties.

Care providers can sign up for the app for a monthly fee of £34.99 per location (plus five per cent from the agreed daily shift fee) and trained carers sign up FREE once they have completed the vetting process.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Empowering Care Staff and Residents Through Aligned Training

By Elena Martin, Director of Operations and Commissioning, Langdale Care Homes

In the ever-evolving landscape of adult social care, it is essential to ensure that training initiatives not only equip care professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills but also nurture an environment where they feel confident and supported to deliver their best.

As a Registered General Nurse with over two decades of experience in the care industry, I have seen first-hand how thoughtfully designed training programmes can bring about meaningful changes that resonate with both staff and residents. These programmes, when aligned with the real-world needs of care professionals, have the power to transform not only the quality of care but also the overall morale and satisfaction within the care setting.

One of the key features of impactful training is its accessibility, relevance, and applicability to the challenges faced by care staff on a daily basis. From comprehensive first aid instruction to specialised courses on dementia care, well-designed training modules can provide care professionals with the tools and techniques required to respond effectively to a variety of situations. By prioritising the development of our staff's clinical proficiency, we enable them to deliver high-quality, person-centred care that focuses on the well-being and dignity of residents.

However, building confidence and capability goes beyond technical skills alone. It is equally vital to focus on the interpersonal skills that underpin meaningful relationships with residents and contribute to their overall happiness and fulfilment. Training programmes that emphasise relational care, for instance, can help care staff appreciate the importance of creating an atmosphere of trust and understanding. By encouraging

staff to focus on these human aspects of care, we cultivate a setting that radiates warmth and kindness, ensuring that residents feel valued and respected.

Moreover, to ensure that staff can consistently provide the best possible care, our training must remain adaptable and responsive to emerging trends and best practices in the sector. By implementing regular refresher courses, we reinforce foundational knowledge, address any skill gaps, and ensure that care professionals are up to date with the latest advancements. Similarly, ongoing supervision and performance evaluations play a vital role in identifying opportunities for professional growth, creating a framework of accountability and continuous development. This commitment to lifelong learning not only enhances the quality of care but also reinforces a sense of purpose and pride among staff.

The ripple effect of robust training programmes extends far beyond individual care professionals. When staff feel confident, valued, and well-equipped, they are better positioned to deliver exceptional care that is tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each resident. This, in turn, results in improved well-being for residents, greater peace of mind for their families, and stronger outcomes for the care community as a whole.

At the core of our training philosophy lies the understanding that empowered staff lead to empowered residents. When care professionals are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and assurance to excel in their roles, they are better able to encourage residents to maintain their independence, involve them in decisionmaking, and take the time to truly listen to their stories and concerns.

In conclusion, aligning training with the practical needs of both staff and residents goes far beyond fulfilling regulatory requirements—it is the foundation for fostering confidence, compassion, and excellence in adult social care. As we look ahead to the challenges and opportunities of the future, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to investing in our staff, enabling them to make a lasting difference in the lives of those they care for.

Game-Based Learning: A Smart, Flexible Solution for Care Home Training

In today’s care home environment, staff training is under constant pressure. Limited time, tight budgets, and high workloads mean traditional training methods often struggle to keep up. Yet, with complex conditions like diabetes affecting up to one in four residents, there’s never been a greater need for effective, accessible learning.

Game-based learning (GBL) offers a powerful way forward. Whether through board games, card games, or digital tools, GBL turns essential training topics into engaging, memorable learning experiences that fit seamlessly into busy care home routines. It’s proven to boost knowledge retention, spark discussion, and improve practical understanding.

Focus Games (www.focusgames.com) leads the way in this space, with a wide range of evidence-based games developed for health and social care. Their innovative Virtual Care Home is a standout example—a digital environment where staff can explore realistic care scenarios, click on hotspots, and practise deci-

sion-making in a safe, simulated setting. From managing blood glucose to identifying signs of hypoglycaemia, staff gain confidence in handling real-world challenges. All on their pc or smart pnone!

Best of all, these ready-to-use resources are designed to be flexible. Maximising every learning opportunity. With options tailored to your setting, including customisable content and multi-modal learning styles, there's a solution for every home. In a sector facing increasing demands, GBL offers a costeffective, forward-thinking way to build skills and confidence. Whether you're new to game-based learning or ready to take it further, now’s the time to explore the difference it can make. To discuss our virtual care home resource contact info@focusgames.com.

See our cover advert for a special discount code to get started today. Visit www.focusgames.com

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of life care that you provide and is: CQC-Recognised

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EDUCATION AND TRAINING

First Ever Cyber Game for Social Care

Cyber security is an increasing concern in social care, with data breaches, phishing scams, and cyber attacks putting sensitive information and essential services at risk. However, learning about cyber security can often feel overwhelming, full of jargon, and difficult to apply to everyday situations. That’s where the Digital Care Hub’s new Cyber Game comes in—an engaging, interactive way for adult social care providers to learn vital cyber security skills.

THE POWER OF GAMIFICATION IN SOCIAL CARE

Learning doesn’t have to be dull. In social care, where training is essential but time is scarce, gamification—using game-like elements such as quizzes, rewards, and interactive challenges—makes learning more engaging and memorable. It provides a safe space to learn and make mistakes, increasing engagement, motivation, and knowledge retention. Gamification also allows for instant feedback and supports long-term behaviour change, making it an effective tool for cyber security training.

THE FIRST-EVER CYBER GAME FOR SOCIAL CARE

The Digital Care Hub has launched the first-ever Cyber Game designed specifically for adult social care providers. It offers a fun and practical way to learn about cyber security and data protection, helping care managers, care workers, and other staff members develop the skills they need to keep their organisation safe.

The Cyber Game takes players through real-world scenarios relevant

to social care settings, making it easier to recognise and respond to cyber risks in a safe environment. Whether it’s identifying a phishing email, ensuring secure data sharing, or responding to a cyber incident, players gain hands-on experience that translates directly to their work environment.

One of the biggest challenges in cyber security training is making it relatable. The Cyber Game brings cyber risks to life through realistic characters and workplace situations. Players can take on the role of a registered manager, a data protection lead, or a care worker, each facing different cyber threats.

Each scenario is based on real cyber incidents that have affected

social care providers. The goal is to manage the crisis effectively—containing the damage, notifying the right people, and implementing steps to prevent future incidents. Decisions impact security, time, and cost, requiring players to balance risk and consequences.

WHY GAMIFY CYBER SECURITY TRAINING?

Daniel O’Shaughnessy, from the Digital Care Hub, explains:

“We created the Cyber Game to make cyber security training more accessible and engaging. Gamification encourages active participation and helps staff retain information better, making learning feel rewarding and practical.”

WHAT CARE STAFF SAY

Care staff who tested the game found the scenarios helpful and realistic:

“These are good scenarios – typical and indicative of what may occur and give people an idea of what they need to be thinking about.”

Through interactive decision-making, players experience the consequences of their choices, reinforcing key lessons in a way that traditional training cannot.

TRY THE CYBER GAME TODAY!

The Cyber Game is available online, completely free to play. It’s a great way for care providers to improve their cyber security awareness in an engaging and practical way.

Play the game online at: www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/cyber-game

Policies and Procedures Within Social Care

The delivery of safe care is the paramount responsibility of social care providers. Central to achieving this is the governance framework adopted by service providers. And at the core of this framework are policies and procedures. These enable the provider to comply – and evidence compliance – with relevant legislation and regulations, as well as facilitating best practices, supporting business needs, and assisting in recognising and managing risks.

Providers have a legal duty of care to the people they employ. Policies and procedures should provide clear guidelines to staff on how the organisation operates, as well as informing them of best practices and processes to be followed.

Policies should be reviewed annually as a minimum to ensure they are still fit for purpose and align with legal and regulatory requirements. They should be reviewed not only by employees of the business, but also by experts in various subject matters (e.g., infection control or medicines management).

For many small- to medium-sized providers, there may not be the in-house skills, knowledge, and experience to complete such a robust annual review. Many choose instead to purchase their policies and

procedures from a reputable provider like W&P Compliance & Training, who will also complete reviews and ensure their policies and procedures remain up to date. This way a provider not only ensures they remain compliant; they also benefit from best practice policies and procedures that provide a solid foundation for safe working practices and – ultimately – protect and support service users and staff.

Ben Erskine – Director at W&P Compliance & Training www.wandptraining.co.uk | Tel: 01305 767104

See the advert on page

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

70% of Care Home Residents Have Dementia, But Are Staff Working Well With Their Families Too?

By Satya Cashman, Partnerships Manager for national charity Dementia Carers Count

Here at Dementia Carers Count we’re supporting professional carers, looking after increasing numbers of people with dementia. Day in, day out, we provide emotional advice and practical support to family carers, as they cope with the challenges of dementia care. Those challenges don’t stop when a loved one moves to a care home. They change. And what many families tell us is, they would like better support from the professional carers they meet.

In fact, of the 1,300 family dementia carers who responded to our 2023 survey, only one third agreed that paid carers understood their needs. This is worrying, given the best possible person-centred care is only possible through working in partnership with families

With estimates of the number of professional carers receiving dementia training as low as 29%1, it could be that some carers just don’t have the training or practical experience to support families well. But most care homes invest in regular dementia training, and a host of other professional requirements. Despite this, many families are not confident about paid carers’ understanding of dementia. Only around a quarter (27%) of our 2024 survey respondents said that paid carers had a ‘good understanding of dementia and dementia care2

So, what could you do differently to ensure your busy, committed and hard-working team have everything they need to support residents and families with the care and compassion you’d want?

Well, whilst you’re busy arranging shift patterns, cover, inspections,

visits and the rest, it’s easy to overlook problems with the current basic training model:

1. Dementia has so many presentations, and no one prognosis, affecting every person differently. To provide high-quality, person-centred care for people with dementia, you need a wide range of knowledge from a broad practice base.

2. Staff churn is challenging for any care business. But all too often, staff

move on because they don't feel confident or supported by low-quality training, when they do face those challenging situations.

3. It’s tough getting carers together for a whole or half day of training. Arranging shift patterns and cover, transport from other sites, or managing sickness and emergencies.

At Dementia Carers Count, we understand the pressures you face and the genuine commitment you have to your residents. As a dedicated charity, our mission is to improve support for anyone caring for someone with dementia. That’s why we’ve developed short, regular interventions, delivered live by trainers with experience and insight, to help your staff understand all the dimensions of expert dementia care for your clients and their families.

Our 90-minute format minimises disruption to your schedules, while maximising learning outcomes. These focused sessions share genuinely useful knowledge in an accessible and engaging way. And as all our CPD accredited training comes from years of experience supporting carers, you can feel confident you’re your staff will learn from the very best. What’s more, proceeds from our training go to our work for family carers across the UK. When you work with us, you're supporting your team and your local community.

To speak to Satya and find out more about training – visit www.dementiacarers.org.uk/what-we-do/dementia-training

Realise Achieves 11 QACLS Endorsements

A host of health and social care courses delivered by leading training provider Realise have received the new Quality Assurance Care Learning Services (QACLS) endorsement.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has taken on responsibility for reviewing the quality of individual courses and qualifications delivered by training providers within the sector.

Realise submitted 11 of its health and social care

programmes to be quality assured – and all received the stamp of approval, including the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate.

Funding for health and social care qualifications is now provided through the Government’s Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS), which has replaced the Workforce Development Fund.

From April this year, only courses and qualifications delivered by training providers that have been

QACLS endorsed will be identified as preferred options by LDSS.

And from next year onwards, employers will only be able to claim LDSS funding for courses that have been quality assured.

Care providers currently have to replace almost a third of their workers each year due to staff leaving their jobs. This high turnover has a negative impact on the quality of care - and the DHSC hopes the QACLS endorsement will help boost retention.

Lesley O’Connor, Head of Strategic Development at Realise, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be one of the first training providers to achieve endorsements across a wide range of courses.

“This new system marks a step-change for the industry as it means, for the first time, individual courses are being reviewed rather than the training provider as a whole in an attempt to drive up standards.

“The approval process was thorough, looking at evidence of quality of delivery, testimonials, achievement rates and policies.

“Being QACLS endorsed is very important as it demonstrates quality and also allows employers to continue to claim LDSS funding. Soon employers will have to pay the full price for programmes that are not endorsed.

“We look forward to working with employers who

"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-forprofit 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

can benefit from quality assured training.”

The QACLS endorsement lasts for three years, with regular monitoring every six to nine months.

Realise will strive to have all its health and social care programmes approved through QACLS during phase two and three of the process. Phase two runs from now until the end of the 2025-26 financial year, and phase three follows immediately after.

The Government says it is "fully committed to a professional, well supported social care workforce" with learning, development and training that is "of outstanding quality, relevant and accessible".

The full list of Realise’s 11 quality assured courses are: Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism, Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate, Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Care and Management of Diabetes, Level 2 Certificate in Falls Prevention Awareness, Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Nutrition and Health, Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care, Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care, Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Safe Handling of Medication in Health and Social Care and Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems For more information, visit www.realisetraining.com

a programme that is straight 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"

PROFESSIONAL AND FINANCE

Navigating Insolvency in the Residential Care Home Sector: Practical Guidance for Businesses from Slater Heelis

By Nick Goodman, Partner and Head of Insolvency at Slater Heelis

The residential care home sector is facing unprecedented financial challenges as we move into 2025. Rising costs, driven by the recent autumn Budget, have placed immense pressure on care providers.

Industry experts predict a surge in insolvencies and restructuring activities, with many businesses struggling to stay afloat. A recent survey by the Care Provider Alliance (CPA) highlights the severity of the situation: 22% of care providers are planning to close their businesses entirely, 77% will have to draw on reserves, and 64% will need to make staff redundant – these figures present a raft of troubling choices for care providers and the people cared for by their businesses.

In this challenging landscape, it is crucial for care home operators to have a clear strategy to navigate potential insolvency while prioritising the care of their residents. In such worrying times, knowledge is power, so it’s sensible to weigh up all the possible outcomes and options and fully comprehend the issues that might lie ahead.

UNDERSTANDING THE CHALLENGES

The autumn Budget has introduced several cost pressures that are particularly impactful for the care sector. These include increases in the National Living Wage and National Insurance Employer Contributions, which significantly raise operational costs. Additionally, the sector is grappling with high input costs, pressures on social care budgets, and staff shortages. These factors combine to create a perfect storm, making it difficult for many care homes to maintain financial stability.

PRIORITISING RESIDENT CARE

The primary concern for any care home facing financial difficulties should be the wellbeing of its residents. Ensuring that residents continue to receive high-quality care is paramount. Ideally, residents should not have to move, as relocation can be distressing and disruptive. This can be achieved through various strategies, including finding an investor to support the insolvent care home or transferring the premises and residents to another care provider.

EXPLORING TURNAROUND SOLUTIONS

When facing potential insolvency, early intervention is key. Care home operators should consider turnaround strategies that can help stabilise the business and avoid more drastic measures. These strategies might include:

Cost Management: Conduct a thorough review of all expenses and identify areas where costs can be reduced without compromising the quality of care. This might involve renegotiating contracts with suppliers, reducing energy consumption, or streamlining administrative processes.

• Revenue Enhancement: Explore opportunities to increase revenue, such as offering additional services, increasing occupancy rates, or adjusting pricing structures. Engaging with local authorities and healthcare providers to secure more contracts can also provide a steady income stream.

Financial Restructuring: Work with financial advisors to restructure existing debts and improve cash flow. This might involve negotiating with creditors for more favourable terms or consolidating loans to reduce interest payments.

Operational Efficiency: Implement best practices to improve operational efficiency. This could include investing in staff training, adopting new technologies to streamline care delivery, and improving regulatory compliance to avoid costly penalties.

FORMAL INSOLVENCY PROCEDURES

If turnaround strategies are not sufficient, more formal insolvency procedures under the Insolvency Act 1986 may be necessary. These include Company Voluntary Arrangements (CVAs) and administration.

Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA): A CVA is a legally binding agreement between a company and its creditors to repay a portion of its debts over time. This allows the company to continue operating while addressing its financial difficulties. A CVA can be a flexible and cost-effective solution, enabling the care home to restructure its debts and avoid liquidation.

• Administration: Administration involves appointing an insolvency practitioner to take control of the company and manage its affairs. The goal is to rescue the company as a going concern or achieve a better outcome for creditors than liquidation. Administration provides a breathing space for the company to reorganise and potentially find a buyer.

PRE-PACK ADMINISTRATION

However, the primary concern for the care of residents must be balanced with the duty to creditors. If a company is insolvent or bordering on insolvency, or when an insolvent liquidation or administration is probable, the directors owe a duty to the creditors of the company. This is known as the “Creditor Duty”. The directors of the company must give the interests of the creditors appropriate weight and circumstances may dictate that the directors treat shareholders’ interests as subordinate to those of the creditors. Where an insolvent liquidation or administration is inevitable the interests of creditors become paramount.

In cases where preserving the company's licence is not feasible, a pre-

pack administration might be necessary. This involves negotiating the sale of the business and its assets before the appointment of administrators, allowing for a quick transfer of ownership. Pre-pack administration can help maintain business continuity, preserve jobs, and protect the value of the business.

Involving Local Authorities and the Care Quality Commission

Any solution to financial distress in the care home sector must involve local authorities and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) from the outset. These bodies play a crucial role in ensuring that residents continue to receive safe and high-quality care. Local authorities are responsible for commissioning care services and can provide support and guidance during the restructuring process. The CQC oversees the quality of care provided and must be satisfied with any proposed changes to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

PRACTICAL STEPS FOR CARE HOME OPERATORS

Early Engagement: Engage with financial advisors, legal experts, and insolvency practitioners as soon as financial difficulties arise. Early intervention can provide more options and increase the chances of a successful turnaround.

Transparent Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with all stakeholders, including staff, residents, families, creditors, and regulators. Transparency builds trust and can facilitate smoother negotiations and transitions.

Resident-Centred Approach: Always prioritise the needs and wellbeing of residents. Any restructuring plan should aim to minimise disruption to their care and living arrangements.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all actions taken comply with regulatory requirements. Work closely with the CQC and local authorities to navigate the complexities of the care sector.

• Contingency Planning: Develop contingency plans for various scenarios, including potential insolvency. Having a clear plan in place can help manage risks and ensure a more orderly process if financial difficulties escalate.

HELP IN WEATHERING THE STORM

The residential care home sector is facing significant financial challenges, but with careful planning and proactive measures, care home operators can navigate these difficulties while prioritising the care of their residents. By exploring turnaround strategies, engaging in formal insolvency procedures when necessary, and involving key stakeholders, care homes can weather the storm and continue to provide essential services to their communities.

Time is Care: Why Streamlining Payments is Critical for the Care Sector

In the care sector, time is one of the most precious—and limited—resources. Whether it’s a nurse supporting an elderly resident or a finance officer reconciling invoices across multiple funding streams, every hour counts. Yet while much attention is given to frontline care, a quieter crisis is unfolding behind the scenes: payment inefficiencies.

Care providers operate in one of the most complex funding landscapes in the UK. Between over 150 local authorities, 42 Integrated Care Boards, and thousands of self-funders, the process of paying and being paid is often fragmented and manual. That complexity doesn’t just create paperwork—it creates risk.

Late supplier payments can disrupt services. Missed payroll deadlines can cause stress for care workers, many of whom live paycheque to paycheque. In a sector where emotional labour is high and financial stability is rare, a delayed or inaccurate payslip can tip the balance from just coping to burning out. When the back office falters, it impacts the front line.

As Victoria Ramsay, founder of Aequalis Accountancy, put it: “There’s a vicious circle. Late invoices mean poor cash flow, which means providers can’t afford to invest in the very systems that would solve the problem.”

And with care workers under unprecedented strain, payroll isn’t just an admin task—it’s a matter of respect. Timely, accurate payments send a clear message: we value you. Delays or errors, on the other

Care

Global assists clients throughout the U.K. who specialise in the healthcare sector to achieve their objectives of purchase, development and refinance. We have organised over £1.8bn for clients in the past 30 years, providing clients with competitively priced funding to refinance existing debt, ease cashflow and develop businesses further. From helping clients make their first purchase through to

hand, erode morale and trust at a time when retention is already a challenge.

The good news? Change doesn’t always require sweeping reform. One of the biggest wins can come from automating payroll and payments. Faster Payments, for example, allow providers to process transactions in seconds—not days—giving finance teams the flexibility to act quickly and confidently.

Crucially, automation frees up time. According to industry data, automating care payroll can reduce processing time by up to 90%. That’s hours saved every week—time that can be redirected back into care, strategy, and staff support.

What’s often missing from transformation conversations is this: operational efficiency is human efficiency. Every error avoided, every minute saved, helps build a care system that’s not just compliant, but compassionate.

In a sector stretched thin, improving payments isn’t a “nice to have.” It’s a foundation for dignity, stability, and sustainable care.

To learn more about how care providers are modernising payments, visit Modulr at www.modulrfinance.com/care-payments