The Carer Digital - Issue #245

Parliament Approves Assisted Dying Legislation

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

The approved bill now advances to the House of Lords for additional examination and debate before potentially becoming enacted law. However, implementation may be delayed due to a four-year implementation period built into the legislation, meaning assisted dying services might not become available until 2029, potentially aligning with the conclusion of the current parliamentary term.

Health minister Stephen Kinnock said this delay was needed to ensure "safe and effective implementation" of an "entirely new service with robust safeguards and protections" which would need to be "carefully developed and tested".

Under the proposed legislation, terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less would be eligible to request assisted dying.

The bill establishes a comprehensive approval process requiring: Assessment and approval by two qualified medical practitioners

Review by a specialised panel comprising a social worker, senior legal professional, and psychiatric specialist

This multi-stage evaluation system aims to ensure thorough consideration of each case while providing appropriate safeguards for vulnerable individuals.

NO PERSON CLAUSE

It was already the case that doctors would not have to take part, however MPs have since voted to insert a new clause into the Bill extending that to anyone.

The wording means “no person”, including social care workers and pharmacists, is obliged to take part in assisted dying and can now opt out.

Amendments to the Bill were debated on care homes and hospices also being able to opt out but these were not voted on.

As the legislation progresses through the House of Lords, the care sector will have opportunities to contribute to discussions about implementation, training requirements, and service delivery considerations that may arise from this historic policy development.

MPs’ approval of the bill provoked a mixed response.

LANDMARK MOMENT

Sarah Wootton, chief executive of Dignity in Dying, which campaigns for legalisation of assisted dying, said: “Today’s vote is a landmark

moment for choice, compassion and dignity at the end of life. MPs have listened to dying people, to bereaved families and to the public, and have voted decisively for the reform that our country needs and deserves.”

“DEEPLY DISAPPOINTING”

However, Disability Rights UK said it was “devastated” at the news. “It is deeply disappointing that the vote was narrowly in favour of the bill and will now go to the House of Lords. Such a monumental change to our health and social care and culture within it should not be rushed through on a private member’s bill on such a slim margin. Legislation of this enormity needs far more time and safeguarding.”

It said it would continue to work with other disability groups campaigning against the bill, “highlighting ableism and inequality, inadequate protections, unsatisfactory bill process and lack of engagement with disabled people”.

UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK said: "Today’s [June 20] decision by MPs represents a seismic change for end of life care in England and Wales. The introduction of assisted dying would have a huge impact on hospices, who are at the forefront of this care in communities across the country.”

“Already, too many people don’t get the care they need at the end of their lives. Today’s decision brings the urgency to improve palliative care into even sharper focus, particularly for the most vulnerable members of society.”

“Should the Bill become law, the Government has four years to bring about a transformation in palliative and end of life care. Nobody should ever feel that they have to choose an assisted death because they fear they won’t get the care and support they need. As it stands, we are concerned this could become the case.”

“The Bill does not detail where assisted dying will take place, or to what extent hospices will be involved. This leaves many unanswered questions for hospices, who are already under immense pressure.”

“Hospice UK remains neutral on the principle of assisted dying. We will work with hospices, Parliamentarians and government throughout the implementation period, assuming the Bill progresses, to navigate the many operational challenges it poses, and ensure the expertise and

experience of the hospice sector is heard.”

DEBATE “MUST BEGIN”

Nuffield Trust Deputy Director of Research, Sarah Scobie, said: “Now that assisted dying is likely to become a reality in England and Wales, the debate on how that happens must begin: what organisations and staff will deliver it, what systems will be needed to ensure equal access, and how it can sit alongside existing care at the end of life which, as MPs have recognised, is all too uneven.”

“How this is implemented could be crucial in addressing the concerns raised by so many. We have looked at countries across the world implementing assisted dying, including Australia, Canada and the Netherlands. The differences are not just procedural – they affect how individuals access and experience services, and we must learn from them.”

“Policy hasn’t been static – it has changed over time in these other countries, even once assisted dying has been passed into law. It will be important to give the health and care system here time to prepare for implementation, and to have clear processes in place for how it will be monitored and compliance ensured.”

PUBLICLY FUNDED

“International evidence shows that assisted dying services tend to be publicly funded and integrated into the health care system. Successfully achieving that in England and Wales, with health and care services under extraordinary pressure and hospices struggling with a lack of comprehensive funding, will be no mean feat.”

“An amendment to the Bill will require the Secretary of State to report on the state of end of life services. MPs were right to see this as crucial context – and today, such a report would make difficult reading. Too often people are identified as being at the end of life at a late stage in their illness, and opportunities to provide good quality care are missed. Public spending on end of life care is also weighted far too heavily on hospital care, even though most people prefer to die at home and despite efforts to shift care into the community.”

“Parliament has taken on the serious responsibility of voting this Bill through. Now the government must shoulder the duty of building a service that works alongside our health and care systems.”

Preventing Accidental Managers in UK Care Homes

Effective leadership is the backbone of any successful organisation, but in the care industry, it takes on an even greater significance. Leadership in care homes directly impacts the quality of care provided to residents, influences staff engagement and drives organisational success. Without strong and empathetic leaders, the consequences can be severe: from low staff morale and high turnover to a decline in care standards and negative outcomes for residents.

With increasing challenges in the healthcare sector, it is vital to understand what constitutes good leadership. Steven Hurst, Director of Corporate Learning at Arden University, explores best practices for effective leadership in the care sector, addressing common challenges and how practices can avoid accidental managers.

THE ACCIDENTAL MANAGERS EPIDEMIC

It’s easy to fall into the trap of promoting high performers into leadership roles, without providing the necessary support or training. However, this can create an ‘accidental manager’, who may lack the skills to effectively lead, motivate or manage a team. Unfortunately, this can then enforce reduced team performance, increased employee turnover and a toxic workplace culture.

The issue of accidental managers is more widespread than we might think. Research shows that 82% of new managers in the UK receive no formal management training. Similarly, 26% of senior managers, and 52% of managers overall, admit they’ve never been provided with structured leadership development opportunities.

Crucially, effective leadership is vital in care settings. While leaders oversee operational processes, ensuring the organisation runs smoothly, they also inspire, motivate and guide their team to achieve shared goals. A great leader doesn’t just set targets; they cultivate an environment where staff feel empowered, valued and supported.

Achieving this balance is critical in care homes, where both logistical efficiency and human connection are key.

PREVENTING ACCIDENTAL MANAGERS

Identifying potential accidental managers before they’re placed in leadership roles is critical. Firstly, it’s important to ensure managers have people skills. This will involve being able to empower others and share the workload effectively. On top of this, care homes are a high-pressure environment, which can also take a toll on care staff. Leaders need to recognise the signs of burnout early and implement measures to support mental wellbeing, such as flexible working arrangements, counselling services and open discussions about stress management, which is why people skills are so important. Just because an employee is a top performer, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready for a leadership role – they may need formalised training and support to get there.

By Steven Hurst, Director of Corporate Learning at Arden University (https://arden.ac.uk)

Managing a care home involves regular inspections and adhering to strict regulations, so leaders must also be proactive in ensuring the home remains compliant, incorporating regular audits and ongoing training to stay ahead of any potential issues. So, a good leader will also need to take feedback from their team, patients or senior leadership; the inability or resistance to adapt signals a potential gap in leadership readiness.

Strong leadership is not just about operational success; it’s also about nurturing people. Leaders who inspire their teams often see higher engagement levels, better performance and lower turnover rates. This positively impacts care standards, ensuring residents receive the level of support and compassion they deserve. Developing leadership competency is not always instinctive; it often requires self-awareness, training and experience. Here are some qualities that distinguish outstanding leaders in care homes:

• Competency: Understanding care standards, legal responsibilities and sector-specific needs is essential.

Vision: A strong leader creates and communicates a compelling vision for the future, inspiring others to work towards the same goals.

Empathy: Effective leaders genuinely understand and care about the people they work with, fostering trust and respect.

Decision-making skills: Leaders must weigh risks, evaluate options and make informed decisions in highpressure situations.

• Adaptability: The care sector is dynamic, and leaders need to be flexible, resilient, and open to innovation to meet changing demands.

BUILDING BETTER LEADERS WITH MANAGEMENT TRAINING

Creating an environment of empowered, capable leaders in care homes involves investing in leadership development. Unfortunately, a significant number of leaders in the UK receive no structured training.

One effective solution is the implementation of structured development programmes like degree apprenticeships in management. These courses integrate hands-on experience with theoretical learning, ensuring leaders not only understand best practices, but can also apply them in real-world scenarios.

For example, a degree apprenticeship in chartered management can provide a roadmap for developing technical and relational leadership skills tailored to the care sector, while simultaneously allowing employees to earn while they learn. Some learning providers also offer online degree apprenticeships, allowing employees to fit their studies around their work and personal schedules.

Turnover rates in the care sector are notably high, especially for care workers and registered nurses, with some reports suggesting turnover rates of 30-40%. By offering learning opportunities to help employees develop and progress, organisations can begin to tackle this issue – increasing retention by ensuring staff are engaged. Degree apprenticeships will also give workers a chance to obtain a formalised qualification, which may appeal to some employees. On top of this, investing in employee wellbeing and career development also attracts high-quality candidates.

Care homes cannot afford to underestimate the power of effective leadership. Investing in management development and reinforcing a positive work culture can safeguard not only the wellbeing of staff but also the quality of care provided to residents. Through upskilling and offering formalised management training, the care sector can certainly avoid the accidental manager epidemic.

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Social Care Reorganisation Offers ‘Chance To Reset’ Services’’

District councils’ local connection gives them a “prevention superpower” which must be harnessed when new unitary authorities are formed, a new report has said.

The report by IMPOWER offers insights and tools to help district councils develop proposals to reorganise local government, potentially entailing the disaggregation of existing county council adult social care services.

Local government reorganisation (LGR) has been instigated by the Government in all two-tier areas of English local government. It will merge 164 district and 21 county councils to form new unitary authorities. The District Councils’ Network, which commissioned the report, has urged that new councils remain close to communities and that LGR spurs ambitious public service reform – including by removing barriers between social care and NHS services.

IMPOWER’S report says disaggregating adult social care departments can be done effectively, with early planning, strong leadership and realism required to make it work. The prize disaggregation offers is a “chance to reset” services, it says. “Done well, it may allow systems to better reflect the geographies of communities and care markets.”

It describes districts as “essential partners in adult social care reform” and notes their existing leading role in prevention, housing, welfare and community support, which are “critical to the sustainability of care systems”.

“Local connection is a prevention superpower,” the report continues. “Districts’ ability to build trust and respond to local context gives them a critical role in early intervention and community-based support. New unitary authorities should preserve and build on this capability through layered, place-based models of delivery.”

The study dismisses concerns that smaller social care departments are bound to be less effective. IMPOWER’s analysis shows “there is no clear link between scale and overall quality of adult social care”. It notes that there are “no economies of scale in delivering personal care”, while larger systems sometimes “introduce diseconomies”.

“District councils should approach reform with confidence and curiosity,” the report says. “Their insight into communities, assets and local risks makes them well placed to contribute to stronger, more preventative and more accountable care systems — if they are engaged early and constructively in shaping future models.”

In response to the report, Cllr Hannah Dalton, health spokesperson for the District Councils’ Network, said: “This report highlights that district councils have much to bring to the table in designing the future of adult social care – in particular, our unrivalled links our communities and our unwavering focus on prevention.”

“District councils are specialists in adapting housing to ensure older people can remain independent for longer, running planning systems that encourage development to boost physical activity and overseeing wellbeing programmes to tackle obesity or mental illness. Following reorganisation, this work should be enhanced to complement and support more traditional social care work.”

“Reorganisation should inject a strong sense of place into adult social care services – tailoring them to the unique needs of communities – and it must bring about a greater focus on prevention, which is the only way we can hope to tackle rising demand.

“This is where smaller councils have a natural advantage – with a localised focus on communities and close knowledge of their people and places. These attributes should be essential ingredients of redesigned and reimagined social care services.”

“IMPOWER’s report confirms district councils should be confident to use their unique attributes to devise new approaches for adult social care. Services cannot go on as they are, with demand rising faster than budgets, unmet needs and low wages. It would be a mistake to simply carry forward the existing failing model at a wider scale, when a shift in approach towards prevention is desperately required.”

Sean Hanson, Chief Executive of IMPOWER Consulting, said: “Reorganisation is not easy. Navigating disaggregation, establishing safe transitions, and designing new delivery models will test even the most experienced leaders”

“But it also creates a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reset the system: to hardwire prevention into your local offer, to embed housing and community support into commissioning strategies, and to build ASC services that reflect the unique needs and strengths of local people.”

Employee Ownership: A Sustainable Future For The Care Sector

Mavric Webbstock, Head of Wellbeing (Healthcare, Education, Arts & Culture, Religious Organisations & Recreation) at Triodos Bank

UK (www.triodos.co.uk)

There is no doubt that the adult and social care sector is facing a multifaceted crisis.

From funding shortfalls to staffing challenges – while the sector is facing a growing adult population and the rapid need to future-proof and retrofit facilities – it is clear that the stakes have rarely been higher for the care sector.

Because of this, it has never been more important to consider how the care sector sets itself up for success. The lingering after effects of the pandemic, underfunding of local authorities, serious staffing challenges and high staff turnover, unanticipated wage and NI increases, rampant inflation and unsuccessful private equity models have battered the sector over the past three years.

Care operators who have thrived through this difficult period have one thing in common: they do not prioritise profit over care! Those with a sole profit focus who failed to balance resident and staff wellbeing and care quality with the need to operate profitably, have been hugely challenged and hopefully learned a difficult lesson over this period which will serve them well into the future.

For those operators seeking to maximise staff buy-in, an alternative approach is available. By bringing more care operators into employee ownership, we can help the sector to put people over profit, while building long-term financial sustainability.

THE EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP MODEL

Employee-owned businesses are totally or significantly owned by their employees, with shares held either directly by the employees or in a trust.

The employee ownership structure is designed to ensure that the benefits of ownership – from profits to governance – are more equitably shared. Instead of a small number of shareholders holding all the cards, the people that work for a business can have a say in how it is run, leading to a fairer, more inclusive way of working.

This greater involvement can help foster a culture where employees feel empowered and valued, leading to better staff wellbeing, engagement and retention.

And ultimately, when staff are motivated to give the best care possible, this helps operators to deliver services that meet community needs and ensure long-term care quality.

The employee ownership model also offers potential tax benefits for both employees and business owners.

CASE STUDY: COAST CARE HOMES

At Triodos Bank UK, we’ve been leading the way in financing impact-led projects in the UK care sector for 30 years. By only working with organisations that we believe have the potential to positively benefit society and make the world a better place for future generations, we operate as a mission-aligned partner for customers who share our values.

Having worked with the likes of architects and Riverford Organic Farmers to transition to employee ownership, we were excited and eager to work with our first care home.

We recently finalised our first employee ownership transition finance for the health and social care sector for Coast Care Homes Ltd, which provides a loving and caring environment for the elderly within its three closely located homes in East Sussex. The majority of the residents are living with some form of dementia, and Coast Care Homes aim to work with the most progressive developments in dementia care - focusing not on what residents are unable to do, but on what they can achieve and enjoy.

The company has now officially transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust. Its co-founders were keen to make this move to place people at the heart of their operations. This strategic move not only strengthens the foundation of the organisation but also ensures that Coast Care Homes continues to provide the highest standards of care for its residents. The team are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the positive impact this new chapter will bring for its team and service users

As the pressures on the care sector continue to grow, now is the time for operators to consider making changes that offer long-term, values-aligned solutions. Employee ownership is not a silver bullet; but it is a powerful tool in building a more sustainable and human-centred future for care homes.

And by creating resilient and socially responsible organisations that prioritise the wellbeing of both employees and the communities they serve, we can collectively look to a future of a thriving care sector that promotes the dignity and wellbeing of all.

Care Reform (Scotland) Bill Passes With Cross Party Support

Plans to transform social care across Scotland will be progressed after the Scottish Parliament approved the Care Reform (Scotland) Bill.

Thousands of people with experience of accessing, delivering and receiving social care, social work and community health services have helped co-design the legislation, putting people at the heart of reform.

THE BILL WILL BRING FORWARD A NUMBER OF ENHANCEMENTS TO SOCIAL CARE THAT INCLUDE:

• enshrining Anne’s Law into legislation to uphold the rights of people living in adult care homes to see loved ones and identify an essential care supporter

• strengthening support for unpaid carers by establishing a legal right to breaks, following the additional £13 million already allocated for up to 40,000 carers to take voluntary sector short breaks

• empowering people to access information on their care and improving the flow of information across care settings

• improving access to independent advocacy to guarantee people are heard and involved in decisions about their own care

• creating a National Chief Social Work Adviser role to provide professional leadership and champion the sector, as part of plans for a new National Social Work Agency.

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

• Trainee Groups

Alongside the Bill, an advisory board will be established to drive progress and scrutinise reform, replacing an interim board that met for the first time in May.

Social Care Minister Maree Todd said: “More than 200,000 people across Scotland access care each year.”

“Anyone may need care during their lives, and that care should be high quality and delivered consistently across Scotland. That is why we have been so determined to bring forward much-needed reform, alongside the work we are already doing through the near £2.2 billion total investment in social care and integration in 2025-26.

“Reform is not easy to deliver and it is being made more challenging by recent UK Government changes to Employer National Insurance Contributions and changes to migration. These will undoubtedly impact on care delivery.”

“However, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to deliver the sustainable change to social care that people urgently need.”

“This is a significant step that will strengthen the rights of people living in care homes, support unpaid carers and social workers and improve experiences for the many people who access social care across Scotland.”

• Bulk Uploads

• Bulk Enrolment Onto Custom Bundles

• Course Enrolment Notifications

• Course Reminders

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:

• Best Online Health and Social Care Learning Platform’ – Global Health & Pharma Social Care Awards 2024

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

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

Gold standard customer service remains a core staple of the business, with expert support and guidance provided via telephone, email and live chat. They place great importance on the training and development of their customer services team to ensure that they continue to provide a personal, friendly and knowledgeable service.

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.

Care Providers Are ‘Working in the Dark’ According to a Sector Trends

The third annual Care Trends Report 2025 from OneAdvanced, in partnership with Care England, shines a light on the realities facing the care sector today. Based on a survey of 404 multi-site care providers, the findings lay bare the challenges providers say are holding them back, often directly impacting the workforce management and the delivery of care and support.

Staggeringly, almost half (48%) of care providers report they are now effectively ‘working in the dark’ – having insufficient advanced visibility of their organisation – a figure that has more than doubled from 21% last year. This blind spot is forcing many into backwardlooking strategies, addressing historical inefficiencies rather than pursuing future-focused solutions.

Nearly half (47%) of providers struggle to track move-ins and move-outs, a critical operational blocker directly impacting the timeliness of care delivery. Administrative errors are also draining valuable resources, with 78% of providers spending three to- six hours each month amending payroll errors. That’s a sharp increase from 49% the previous year, reflecting a growing burden on already overstretched back-office teams, often pulling focus from more critical care priorities. It seems that employees themselves are bearing the brunt. Almost a third (32%) of providers say they’re unable to offer their employees the right number of hours. Another 22% struggle with scheduling shifts at times that work for staff.

Report is a wake-up call for everyone invested in the future of social care. It exposes the pressures faced by providers, from operational challenges to workforce demands, it importantly, highlights the extraordinary resilience and commitment of care provider’s most valuable asset—their people! The highly skilled individuals who work tirelessly caring for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

Care providers are already facing significant operational challenges in delivering services, upcoming legislative changes are expected to introduce further complexities, putting additional pressure on providers who are already struggling to maintain the status quo. It is essential that we amplify their voices to ensure they receive the right support and solutions needed to sustain their future.’

Ric Thompson, SVP – Health & Care at OneAdvanced, comments:

‘The Care Trends Report 2025 does more than highlight challenges—it amplifies the voices of the millions of people working in care and advocates for decisive action across the sector. The encouraging news is that the report reveals strong momentum and a clear appetite for change. And with the right support and technology, care providers can shift from reactive firefighting to proactive, future-ready care.’

These figures clearly indicate a vital opportunity to support care providers to offer much needed flexibility, to boost employee satisfaction, meet care demand, and comply with the upcoming changes to employment laws.

Professor Martin Green OBE, CEO at Care England reflected on the findings: ‘This year’s Care Trends

Access the full Care Trends Report 2025 to explore key insights and understand the pressing challenges facing the care sector today.

Please click the link to read the report in full: https://www.oneadvanced.com/trendsreports/care/?utm_term=press&utm_campaign=uk-fy26-cre-3rd_party-care_england-cre-businessmanagementnarrative1

Frank Foster House Shines With Pride Celebration

Frank Foster House Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group, has been proudly celebrating Pride Month, hosting a full day of celebrations on Tuesday 17th June which included activities and events dedicated to love, diversity, and inclusion.

The day began with a refreshing walk to the local park, where residents and staff enjoyed the sunshine, connected with the wider community, and embraced the values of equality and respect. The walk set a joyful tone for the celebrations, which continued back at the Frank

Foster House with a colourful and uplifting Pride Party.

The highlight of the afternoon was a fantastic live performance by two of Frank Foster House’s very own, Brian from the laundry team and the ever-talented Sandra. Their music filled the home with laughter, dancing, and wonderful memories, capturing the spirit of Pride perfectly. Commenting on the event, Home Manager Nicolas said, “Pride is a beautiful reminder of the importance of respect, equality, and inclusion for everyone, including our LGBTQ+ residents, staff, families, and friends.”

Futureproofing Care Homes by Investing in Financial Efficiency

By Chris Bristow, Real Business Rescue

Care homes must invest in ramping up the efficiency of company operations to build a resilient business that’s able to stand the test of time.

Investing in financial efficiency can range from streamlining company operations to reduce excessive spending, updating systems to increase operational efficiency and unlocking funds from areas of the business to offset rising costs.

Maximising the funds available and ensuring they sufficiently cover running costs can reduce insolvency risk, as more care home insolvencies are being fuelled by financial distress. During this period of significant economic change, care homes must seriously consider how to offset rising costs, such as higher energy bills, Employers’ National Insurance Contributions and National Living Wage.

Chris Bristow, a business health specialist at Real Business Rescue, looks at the integral role of managing company finances efficiently to stay in robust shape.

Fostering financial efficiency to strengthen financial footing

Business streamlining is a powerful exercise, albeit one that is often underestimated. It involves rigorously assessing how much cash is pumped into a business, how efficiently the funds are used, and whether there is excess cash available to be redirected to areas most in need. Business streamlining is an invaluable exercise for care homes at different stages of their lifecycle and regardless of their financial position - distressed or non-distressed.

Business streamlining, also known as business restructuring, is a highly tailored process with no one-sizefits-all solution. It can be broken down into a range of exercises including:

Contingency planning – This prepares your care home for unexpected events that could threaten company viability, such as legislative, regulatory or taxation changes. Contingency planning consists of preparing your care home for any reasonable eventuality to protect business value and ensure care continuity. This can also provide peace of mind to stakeholders and service users in the event of a business sale or change in ownership.

Corporate simplification – Businesses can sometimes have overly complex operating structures which can result in unnecessary expenses, duplicate costs and additional financial reporting responsibilities. A simplified structure can help the company run efficiently while incurring minimal costs.

Debt restructuring – If company funds are tied up in debt repayments, resulting in reduced working capital and cash flow, this will gradually impact the overall financial health of the company. Debt restructuring must be considered to reduce the financial burden on care home providers as they continue to clear debt backlogs from the pandemic and absorb higher labour costs. This focus is particularly crucial as more care homes feel the pressure to invest in company operations to meet the evolving needs of service users. The long-term vision of care homes is also worth considering given the ageing population.

According to parliamentary research, 27% of the UK population is expected to be aged 65 or over by 2072 based on current trends. As this indicates rising pressure on health and social care services, care homes must formulate a long-term survival plan to ensure that resources are consistently replenished.

Dissipating the stigma surrounding insolvency

The reputational damage caused by insolvency can damage customer bases and supplier relationships while breeding job uncertainty among employees. By seeking professional insolvency advice early, care homes can avert potential insolvency and secure a lifeline tailored to their circumstances.

Community Gathers To Enjoy Aerial Circus Performance At Ringwood Care Home

The community congregated at a Ringwood care home to watch an aerial circus performance as part of a special event.

Residents and staff at St Ives House care home on Horton Road were joined by members of the local community for the seaside-themed Catch of the Day performance by The Dot Collective, a professional theatre company who put on dementia-friendly, accessible shows. Afterwards, some of the residents jumped at the chance to have a go at using a rope swing and aerial silks.

The activity was organised for the residents, their loved ones and visitors to celebrate Care Home Open Week, a national initiative run by Championing Social Care. The annual event aims to connect care homes with their local communities and champion the warm, caring, and vibrant environments that care homes provide. All care homes operated by not-for-profit charity Care South hosted events to mark Care Home Open Week. Liz, who lives at St Ives House, said: “The highlight of my afternoon was having a go on the swing. I

always wanted to travel with the circus as a young girl so I cannot believe at my age I had the opportunity to have a go on the swing.”

Avril, who also lives at the home, said: “What a wonderful afternoon, I cannot believe that the performers were upside down and it was done so well. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole afternoon.”

Another resident, Pauline, said: “It was lovely to sit and watch it with my friends. The weather was beautiful, the food was wonderful and the staff were fantastic at setting it all up for us. It was a very enjoyable afternoon.”

Emma Cotton, Home Manager at St Ives House, said: “It was a joy to see our residents so engaged and having so much fun throughout the performance. At Care South, we enable our residents to continue exploring their existing passions and interests, as well as trying new ones, which on this occasion included trying some aerial circus skills. We also take every opportunity to welcome the community into our home to experience the vibrant and supportive environment that we provide for our residents.”

Harefield Care Home Marks Armed Forces Day

With Heartfelt Memories From Residents

the nation comes

to

Armed Forces Day (28th June), HC-One’s Cedar House Care Home in Harefield, Middlesex, is proud to honour the lives and service of two remarkable residents, William “Bill” Black and Robert “Bobby” Badhams, who both served in the Armed Forces with pride and distinction. Bill Black, aged 95, who moved into HC-One’s Cedar House Care Home in December 2023, served in the British Army as a member of the Royal Engineers. Bill joined the British Army in 1947 at the age of 18 years old. Sharing his memories with colleagues, Bill sat upright, 'at attention', as if back in uniform, proudly recounting his experiences.

One particularly vivid memory involved an unfortunate accident while cleaning his bayonet, which led to a hand injury. With a smile, Bill explained how this moment unexpectedly introduced him to a new skill — knitting — encouraged by the Army to help him regain dexterity in his fingers. Bill served in the British Army for 2 years from 1947 to 1950 before returning to be part of the Army Reserve.

Robert Badhams, affectionately known as Bobby, aged 86, who moved into HC-One’s Cedar House Care Home in October

2022, served in the Royal Air Force, primarily stationed at RAF Uxbridge.

Speaking with a sparkle in his eye, Bobby recalled the many admirers who, he claimed with a chuckle, were drawn to a man in uniform. Yet behind the humour was a deep sense of pride and emotion as Bobby spoke of his parents’ immense pride in his service. Bobby served in the Royal Air Force for 2 years and left in 1962.

Zonya Sullivan, Wellbeing Coordinator at HC-One’s Cedar House Care Home, said:

“It was a privilege to listen to these personal and heartfelt stories. Bill and Bobby shared their memories with such warmth and humour — we’re certain they enjoyed telling them as much as we enjoyed listening.

“As we reflect on Armed Forces Day, Cedar House extends our deepest gratitude to all those who have served. We are honoured to care for heroes like Bill and Bobby and to celebrate their remarkable lives and service.’’

As

together

celebrate

Benefits Of 2 Alzheimer’s Treatments Remain Too Small To Justify The Additional Cost To The NHS

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has concluded that the benefits from donanemab (also called Kisunla and made by Eli Lilly) and lecanemab (also called Leqembi and made by Eisai) –remain too small to justify the additional cost to the NHS, following a consultation with an independent committee.

This means the medicines should not be provided on the NHS as they are not good value for money.

Last month the appraisal committee met to consider new information submitted as part of its additional consultation on negative draft recommendations for donanemab and lecanemab.

The committee’s conclusion in final draft guidance published today remains that neither drug can be recommended for treating mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease. This is because, based on all the evidence submitted, they still do not demonstrate sufficient benefit for their high cost, including the cost of administering them. The treatments have been shown to delay progression from mild to moderate Alzheimer’s by 4-6 months but the overall costs of purchasing and administering the drug remain high and the benefits too small.

For NICE to be able to approve a medicine for use in the NHS it must not only represent a step forward in treatment, but it must also represent a good use of NHS resources and taxpayers’ money. These treatments they conclude do not do that.

We have done everything we possibly can to try and achieve a positive outcome in our assessments of these treatments, including providing an additional opportunity for new evidence to be submitted.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE said: “We

have done everything we possibly can to try and achieve a positive outcome in our assessments of these treatments, including providing an additional opportunity for new evidence to be submitted.”

Helen continued: “The committee accepted that any slowing of the disease getting worse would be meaningful for people with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease and their carers because it could mean more time socialising, driving and being independent, so needing less help day-to-day from family members.

“The committee accepted that any slowing of the disease getting worse would be meaningful for people with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease and their carers because it could mean more time socialising, driving and being independent, so needing less help day-to-day from family members.

“However, the committee concluded the small benefits of donanemab and lecanemab shown in the clinical trials and the lack of long-term evidence of effectiveness, together with the substantial resources the NHS would need to commit to the treatments means if they were approved they could displace other essential treatments and services that deliver significant benefits to patients.”

Professor Fiona Carragher, Alzheimer’s Society’s Chief Policy and Research Officer, said: “There is no doubt that today’s decision is a setback for people with Alzheimer’s disease. It is highly disappointing that we are in a situation where treatments that slow the progression of the condition are not available on the NHS.

Perry Barr Care Home Residents Uplifted

By Monthly Gospel Choir Visit

Residents at HC-One’s Perry Locks Care Home in Perry Barr, Birmingham, were filled with joy on Saturday afternoon as they welcomed the monthly visit from their local Gospel Choir, a group of devoted members from the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The Gospel Choir, which includes both adults and children, brought warmth, energy, and a sense of community to the home. Their performances of well-loved hymns and heartfelt prayers never fail to uplift the spirits of those in attendance. The presence of the younger choir members was especially cherished by residents, many of whom commented on the joy and smiles the children brought with them.

highlight we all look forward to.”

After the service, the choir members took time to sit with the residents over a cup of tea, sharing stories and friendly conversation. This personal connection is a key part of their visit and is always warmly appreciated by everyone at Perry Locks.

Bernadette Brady, Wellbeing Coordinator at HC-One’s Perry Locks Care Home, commented: “Our residents always look forward to seeing the choir each month.

Their visits bring so much happiness, and the interaction between the choir and our residents is truly heartwarming.”

Resident at HC-One’s Perry Locks Care Home, Veronica Clarky said: “The music and the prayers truly touched our hearts. It’s a

The visit ended with a heartfelt thank-you from all the residents, who are already eagerly anticipating the choir’s next appearance.

“The reality we’re faced with is that these treatments remain out of reach of both the NHS and most eligible people with Alzheimer’s disease. In other diseases like cancer, treatments have become more effective, safer and cheaper over time. It’s essential we see similar progress in dementia.

“The fact is, even if donanemab and lecanemab were made available on the NHS tomorrow, too many patients wouldn’t be able to access them because the health system isn’t ready to deliver them. The science is flying but the system is failing.

“What we need now is for the UK government to commit to the longterm investment needed to fundamentally change dementia diagnosis so that we are ready for new treatments.This relies on an early diagnosis and access to specialist diagnostic tests, yet currently a third of people with dementia don’t have a diagnosis at all.

“The needs of people with dementia have long been overlooked and this cannot continue. We are heading towards a future where diseaseslowing treatments reduce the devastating impact of dementia, and we cannot afford to delay preparing the NHS for them.”

A Family Tradition of Care: Jasmin’s Shared Lives Story

"You know, when he sees me, just a smile on his face... you just know you're doing something right for that person. That makes me happy." Shared Lives Carers open their hearts and homes to support someone with social care needs. By welcoming the person into their family life, they offer a more personal, family-style alternative to traditional care – creating meaningful connections and a true sense of belonging. For Jasmin, a Shared Lives Carer with Surrey Choices, caring isn't just a profession - it's a lifelong calling woven into the fabric of her family. Her journey was shaped by an environment where compassion and support were a part of everyday life.

A CALLING ROOTED IN FAMILY

"I’ve always worked within the healthcare sector," Jasmin explains. "My parents were nursing home owners, so I grew up in an environment where caring for others was at the heart of our everyday life." This early exposure deeply influenced her passion. Her parents and extended family were also Shared Lives carers, creating a powerful family tradition. Jasmin recalls growing up with a young man supported by her parents who remains a part of her life to this day. "He will always hold a special place in my heart," she says. "That just sort of inspired me to have someone who can be a part of your family and to grow up with you and give them a good quality of life. I think that's very special."

A DAY IN THE LIFE

As a single carer, Jasmin's days are full and structured around providing consistent, warm support. A typical day begins by supporting with personal care to get the people who live with Jasmine ready for

the day. From there, she focuses on creating a clean and organised home, managing laundry and tidying.

"Often, I’ll pop out to do some food shopping, collect medication, and ensure we have everything we need at home," she notes. The evenings are a time for connection. "We usually spend time together preparing and cooking dinner - I like to get them involved in the kitchen, as it’s a great opportunity to build skills and share moments together." Afternoons are for relaxation, visiting friends and family, or

simply enjoying a good chat at home.”

BUILDING A FAMILY BOND

Jasmin currently supports two individuals: a gentleman in his 30s and a lady in her 60s. Having known them both for many years, she has built a strong and meaningful bond with each of them.

"They are both a very special part of my life and feel like extended family to me," Jasmin shares. "I feel privileged to support them in a way that helps them live comfortably, confidently and happily within our shared home."

THE REWARDS OF A FULFILLING ROLE

The role comes with immense satisfaction. "It’s a very rewarding job," she says. "I absolutely love what I do, it is fulfilling and the people I support are my world. The best thing is knowing I am helping them to make their dreams come true."

Jasmin also highlights the importance of recognising the dedication of carers. She believes that even a small amount of appreciation makes a big difference. "Just that small bit of gratitude in that 'thank you' or that little praise from someone, it does make that difference, and it does make you feel like you are doing a good job."

When she takes time for herself, Jasmin enjoys cleaning her home and travelling, with Mauritius being a favourite holiday destination.

For anyone considering the path she has found so rewarding, Jasmin offers simple encouragement: "Although it may not be for everyone, it's definitely something to take on board and try out... I would say do it, go for it."

Football Legend Chris Kamara MBE Joins Marie Curie Fundraiser

On ‘Unbelievable’ 5,000-Mile Challenge

Ex-football pundit and Marie Curie Ambassador Chris Kamara MBE joined a fundraiser in North Yorkshire this morning to support her on her 5,000-mile walking challenge.

Tracey Howe, 61 from Glasgow, is currently embarking on a 365-day walk, completing the whole UK coastline (the same distance as London to Beijing) to raise money for five charities, including end of life charity Marie Curie.

Tracey started walking in October 2024 and will be walking until October 2025 – 20 miles a day, 6 days a week. She is walking in memory of her wife Angela who died from cancer in 2023, and has already raised over £35,000 for the charities that supported her.

Tracey’s wife had visits from Marie Curie healthcare assistants in the nights before she died and Chris Kamara MBE, whose mum had Marie Curie care at home at the end of life, joined Tracey Howe in Saltburn-bythe-Sea this morning to walk with her for one mile.

Chris Kamara MBE said: “What an inspiration! It was my pleasure to join Tracey today on her epic fundraising walk around the whole of the UK coastline – I walked one mile with Tracey, but she’ll be doing 5,000! “She’s hoping to raise £100,000 for five incredible charities, including Marie Curie. I know first-hand what a different Marie Curie care can make, so I know just how much this money would mean. Let’s help get Tracey to this amazing amount.”

Tracey Howe said: “So far, I’ve walked over 3,000 miles and over 6.5 million steps, through storms, snow and heatwaves.

“It’s safe to say my legs are getting tired, so it was a massive boost to have Kammy come and support me today and walk with me a little bit of the way.

“Speaking to someone else that has had support from Marie Curie just reminds me why I’m doing this challenge – to raise money so that more people can access support from Marie Curie and the four other fantastic charities.”

Karuna Manor Care Home Marks 10 Years of

Karuna Manor Care Home celebrated its 10th anniversary this month. The milestone was commemorated with a joyous and inclusive community event that brought together residents, families, staff, local dignitaries and community members – including the Worshipful the Mayor of Harrow, Councillor Anjana Patel.

Since opening in 2015, Karuna Manor has become widely recognised for its person-centred, culturally aware approach to care. Operated by TLC Care, the home was purpose-built to meet the unique cultural, dietary, spiritual and emotional needs of its residents – many of whom come from South Asian backgrounds.

The 10th anniversary celebration took place in the home’s beautifully landscaped gardens, with vibrant decorations and joyful entertainment setting the tone for the day. Guests enjoyed live music, traditional Indian dance performances, speeches, a multi-cultural buffet, and the warm camaraderie that has become a hallmark of life at Karuna Manor.

The day was also an opportunity to recognise and thank the dedicated team who have helped build the home’s reputation over the past decade. The care, empathy and professionalism of the staff — many of whom have been with the home since its early days — were praised throughout the event.

Home Manager Ruth Kigaa, who has led the home with distinction and heart, spoke of her pride in the team’s achievements and the positive difference the home continues to make in residents’ lives.

Ruth Kigaa(Home Manager) “Over the past ten years, we have built something truly special here. Karuna Manor is not just a care home – it is a community. Our team is passionate about delivering care that is digni-

fied, personalised and filled with warmth. Every resident is at the heart of what we do.”

The event was also honoured by the presence of Councillor Anjana Patel, the Mayor of Harrow, who addressed attendees and applauded the care home’s enduring service to the local community. The Mayor noted the home’s cultural inclusivity, community outreach and commitment to maintaining excellence in care as key to its success.

Mayor Cllr Anjana Patel “Karuna Manor exemplifies what outstanding care looks like in a modern, multicultural borough. The staff’s dedication, the attention to cultural traditions, and the quality of life here are deeply impressive. It’s wonderful to see Harrow’s older residents receiving such respectful and loving care.”

Among the day’s highlights were personal stories and reflections shared by residents, who spoke with warmth and gratitude about their experiences at Karuna Manor. Many residents have formed lasting friendships and feel a strong sense of belonging.

Resident AR “I’ve lived at Karuna Manor for five years now. It truly feels like home. The staff understand my values, celebrate my culture, and are always there when I need them. I never feel alone here – there’s always someone to talk to or share a laugh with.”

The testimonials underscore the success of the home’s ethos: combining professional care with cultural understanding and emotional support. Residents are encouraged to maintain their independence, remain connected with their families and traditions, and enjoy a meaningful daily routine.

NHS to Redirect £2.2 Billion to Support Healthcare in Disadvantaged Areas

The Department of Health has revealed plans to redirect over £2 billion in NHS savings towards healthcare improvements in England’s most underserved communities, with particular focus on working-class areas, coastal towns, and rural regions.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting is to outline today the initiative during a policy address in Blackpool, explaining how efficiency measures across the health service have generated substantial savings that will now fund enhanced medical services where they are needed most.

The announcement comes as part of preparations for the Government’s forthcoming NHS 10-year strategic plan, which aims to tackle persistent health inequalities across different regions and communities.

NHS management teams have successfully reduced expenditure through streamlined administrative functions and reduced reliance on temporary staffing arrangements. Financial forecasting by health trusts has also improved, creating additional budget capacity for frontline services.

THE £2.2 BILLION INVESTMENT PACKAGE WILL TARGET SEVERAL KEY AREAS:

• Additional medical staff recruitment

• Enhanced medicine supplies

• Modern healthcare technology and equipment

• Improved GP surgery funding in underserved areas

Government data indicates that GP practices serving working-class communities currently receive approximately 10% less funding per patient compared to surgeries in more affluent locations. The new funding arrangements seek to address this disparity.

We Streeting emphasised the importance of ensuring healthcare quality reflects need rather than geography: “Our objective is to eliminate the postcode lottery that currently affects healthcare access and quality across the country.”

Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, said: “NHS leaders will welcome the government’s commitment to target investment into areas with entrenched health inequalities. Addressing these inequalities through the government’s three shifts is a vital part of improving everyone’s experiences of care and putting the NHS on a sustainable long-term footing. Keeping people healthier and out of hospital by increasing prevention and moving care closer to home is essential for both the NHS and patients as it will reduce demand on hospitals, reduce waiting times and save taxpayers money.”

“While a key part of this will be driving down elective waiting times, we must ensure this doesn’t translate to an expansion of hospital services when the goal is to provide more services more cost-effectively in primary and community care.

“In order to achieve these shifts we know that primary and community care services must be bolstered, including tackling the existing workforce and funding challenges. These are issues which have left practices in underserved communities struggling for funding, with many already having been forced to close. That is why we also welcome the pledge to review the funding formula for general practice.”

“But it is essential that this review is not treated as a simple exercise in redistribution of existing funding but rather a greater share of new funding going to those practices facing the greatest levels of need from the populations they serve.”

Aberdare Care Home Hosts Colourful Rainbow Party To Celebrate Pride Month

Residents and colleagues at HC-One Wales’s Meadowlands Care Home in Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf, came together in a joyful celebration of love, diversity, and inclusion with a vibrant Rainbow Party held in honour of Pride Month. The home was transformed into a colourful haven as staff and residents dressed up in bright rainbow-themed outfits to mark the occasion. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, music, and plenty of cheer as everyone joined in the festivities with pride and unity at heart.

After an afternoon of fun, dancing, and lively conversation, partygoers enjoyed a selection of sweet treats to round off the celebration, the perfect ending to a day

filled with positivity and togetherness.

Home Manager at HC-One Wales’s Meadowlands Care Home, Terrie-Ann Thomas, said: “Pride Month is an important time to celebrate everyone’s unique identity and the values of acceptance and respect. It was wonderful to see our community come together in such a colourful and uplifting way.

“We are proud to support inclusive environments where all individuals feel welcomed and valued. Meadowlands Care Home continues to champion compassion, care, and connection throughout the year.”

The Cost & Consequences of Cutting Back

When times get tough, marketing is often the first to go – seen as a luxury, not a necessity. But pressing pause doesn’t save money, it stalls momentum.

History shows that organisations who stay visible during downturns recover faster and grow stronger. For care providers, where trust and relationships are vital, going quiet isn’t just risky, it’s costly too.

In this feature, Amelia Redge, Agency Director at Reech (www.reech.agency) – a full-service marketing agency –explains how care organisations can weather economic uncertainty without completely disappearing from their audience’s radar.

VISIBILITY = TRUST

Marketing isn’t about sales slogans or flashy campaigns. It’s about reassurance and reputation, especially so in the Care sector. It’s about showing up for families, funders, and future employees with consistency and confidence.

When provides go quiet – whether that’s pausing updates, halting newsletters or no longer sharing their story – it sends a signal. And in the absence of communication, people automatically assume the worst.

Meanwhile, other providers continue to show up: sharing good news, showcasing staff, offering advice. They build trust, while others lose it.

WHAT’S REALLY AT STAKE?

Cutting back on marketing in the short term may seem like a necessary cost-saving measure. But it creates bigger challenges when you need to regain ground.

Here’s what you risk:

LOST TRUST

In Care, silence breeds uncertainty. Families want transparency and commissioners need assurance. Going quiet during difficult times can erode the confidence you’ve spent years building.

COLD AUDIENCES

Reaching people once they’ve disengaged is much harder and more expensive than keeping them informed and connected.

FALLING BEHIND

Other providers don’t stop. They adapt. And when the market recovers, those who disappeared are no longer competing from the same starting line, they’re miles behind.

SMART, SUSTAINABLE VISIBILITY

The good news? Staying visible doesn’t mean spending big. It means being strategic. The most resilient care providers understand that consistency builds credibility – and credibility attracts both clients and staff. Here’s how to maintain momentum with limited resources:

• Prioritise Channels That Matter

Don’t waste energy (and valuable resource) being everywhere, just be where it counts. For example, if families engage with you on Facebook and your staff read email newsletters, turn your focus there.

• Maximise Existing Content

Got a glowing review from a resident’s family? That can be turned into a testimonial graphic, a social media post, a quote for your website, and a story for your newsletter. Make every piece of good news work harder.

• Use Organic Tools Effectively Email marketing, local press coverage, and well-optimised web content are relatively inexpensive, but can deliver huge value if used consistently.

• Keep Telling Your Story

People don’t just choose care providers, they choose values, ethos, and culture. So be human: share staff spotlights, celebrate resident milestones, and discuss your purpose.

• Lean on Experts Where Needed

You don’t need a big in-house marketing team. Partnering with a specialist agency – even for a few hours a month – can help you to make strategic decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

IT’S NOT ABOUT SPENDING MORE, IT’S ABOUT SHOWING UP

Care is built on relationships. And relationships don’t pause when budgets tighten. In fact, when people feel uncertain and unsettled, nurturing them is more important than ever.

Before you pause your marketing activity, ask yourself: ‘what message does that send to our community?’ Because when things improve (and they will), it will be the providers who remained present that people remember. The ones who were committed to showing up when others went quiet.

In Care, leadership isn’t always loud. It’s consistent, reliable, and visible.

Rotherham Care Home Celebrates Pride With

Colourful

Garden Party and Drag

Cherry Trees Care Home in Rotherham came alive with colour and celebration this week as residents, colleagues and family members gathered for a vibrant Pride garden party, complete with a dazzling performance from Sheffield’s very own drag sensation, Emma Maezin.

Pride Month, celebrated each June, is a time for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to honour diversity, raise awareness of LGBTQ+ rights and promote inclusion – all values proudly embraced at Cherry Trees.

The home came alive with music, singing, laughter, and celebration as Emma wowed the crowd with a glittering performance that had residents and guests smiling, clapping, and dancing.

In the days leading up to the event, residents teamed up with colleagues to make vibrant banners, posters and rainbow bunting, transforming the home and garden into a colourful show of support for the

LGBTQ+ community.

Lisa, Activities Coordinator, said: “Our residents were so excited to take part in Pride again this year. It’s wonderful to see everyone come together, have fun, and celebrate love and inclusivity.”

Emma Maezin added: “I had an absolute blast meeting everyone at Cherry Trees – the atmosphere was electric! I truly adored performing for everyone.”

Sheila Hutton (88) , who lives at the home, said, “We’re very proud to be throwing this celebration. Love is love, and everyone, regardless of whether they are part of the LGBTQ+ community or not, deserves to be represented and live true to themselves.”

Sharon Whaley, Home Manager, said: “Seeing the Cherry Trees family come together to celebrate Pride was truly heartwarming. We can’t thank Emma Mazin enough for coming to perform for us all – we had an absolute ball. It’s important to us that everyone at Cherry Trees feels seen, heard, represented and included. Events like this bring so much joy and reinforce the message that love and acceptance matter.”

The Pobroll : A Cost-Effective, Dignified, and Sustainable Solution for Care Homes

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.

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

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

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

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

Dame Judi Dench Backs Call For Government Action On Dementia

Oscar winner and seventime Academy Award nominee Dame Judi Dench is supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK’s latest campaign – Dementia Unseen –and urging the public to sign a petition calling for the UK Government to make early and accurate dementia diagnosis a right for everyone.

Speaking about her experience of the condition, Dame Judi said: “Dementia doesn’t just take away memories – it can take away identity, connection, and the future you thought you had. Watching loved ones slip away, and not knowing why, is an experience no one should have to go through without answers.”

Nearly one million people in the UK are living with dementia, yet one in three have not been formally diagnosed. Some people are waiting up to a year for a diagnosis after being referred by their GP, with those in the most deprived areas facing even longer delays. People in rural and ethnic minority communities are also at greater risk of going undiagnosed altogether.

“Many people across the UK are still waiting far too long for a dementia diagnosis – or never receive one at all. That means they miss out on vital support, on the chance to plan ahead, opportunities to get involved in research, and on precious time. A diagnosis may not fix everything, but it gives people understanding, clarity, and some control at a time when everything feels uncertain. It allows families to make the most of the moments they have left,” she continued.

The call for change comes just months after the UK government announced it would shelve a key target to diagnose 66.7% of those aged 65 and over with dementia, a decision that experts say signals a lack of priority for dementia diagnosis in the NHS.

To address this, Alzheimer’s Research UK is now calling on the Government calling for people to be referred by their GP to see a specialist within six weeks – and to have a diagnosis and treatment plan in place within 18 weeks.

The charity is also calling for efforts to speed up the adoption of new technologies, like blood tests and better use of healthcare data, to improve the speed and accuracy of diagnosis.

The petition, organised by Alzheimer’s Research UK, is gaining widespread support and Dame Judi is urging the public to sign and stand with the charity.

“Together, we can call on government to fix the crumbling diagnosis system and make sure no one faces dementia unseen,” she said.

Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, expressed her gratitude for Dame Judi’s support: “We’re incredibly grateful to Dame Judi for helping shine a light on what people with dementia need – and to everyone who has already signed our petition and stands with us. More people are seeking answers, so it’s vital that the NHS and government act now to fix the system –because no one should face dementia alone or unseen.”

PROVIDING PRACTICAL AND STYLISH TROLLEYS TO SUIT

NEEDS

New Research: Disciplinaries and Grievances Significantly Higher In Care Sector Employment Rights Bill Could Increase Tribunal Claims

New research from law firm Birketts has revealed that care sector employers are having to deal with a significantly higher number of disciplinaries and grievances than other sectors.

Employment lawyers at Birketts warn the number of employment tribunal cases in the care sector could also increase as a result of measures in the Employment Rights Bill, at a time when it will also be grappling with changes to immigration rules.

The Birketts view: Employment tribunals in the care sector impact report 2025, which surveyed HR professionals in businesses in England and Wales over a two-year period, found that on average, respondents from the care sector reported 53 disciplinary matters over the preceding 24 months, compared with an average of 37 across all sectors.

Grievances were also significantly higher in care sector businesses (29% higher) when compared with all sectors, with respondents indicating that managing grievances was the area in which they thought line managers needed most support.

On average, care organisations had received 39 employment tribunal claims in the previous two years, which is broadly in line with the average of 40 across all sectors.

The research shows that among care organisations, 60% of HR professionals surveyed had dealt with between 26-50 employment tribunal claims in the previous 24 months. The average amount of time spent by HR professionals dealing with such claims was 4.66 weeks over the two-year period, very slightly below the average of 4.78 weeks across all sectors.

Of those who had elected not to engage in the Acas early conciliation process, 54% said it was because they thought it would either not resolve the issue or be a waste of time (compared with 56% across all sectors), with 36% indicating that it was because they were not willing to negotiate with the claimant (32% across all sectors).

In contrast, settlement via Acas once the employment tribunal process had started, was reported by 31% of care sector respondents, the most frequent conclusion to claims brought against the business once they had commenced.

Holiday pay claims featured more highly in the care sector compared with the average number of holiday pay claims across all sectors.

Analysis of the types of employment tribunal claims handled by care businesses in England and Wales in the previous two years shows that those most commonly reported were: Unfair dismissal, including constructive dismissal (27%); disability discrimination (23%); wrongful dismissal (20%); and holiday pay (20%).

This suggests that the high staff turnover rate within the sector – alongside a legacy of holiday pay claims brought by care sector workers following recent case law developments – has affected employment tribunal rates.

A 2022 Supreme Court ruling on holiday pay entitlements for part-year workers (Harpur Trust v Brazel) may also have led to a potential artificial ‘bump’ in claims, according to Birketts. Only 16% of respondents from the care sector reported any cases being struck out by the employment

tribunal, compared with 23% of respondents across all sectors.

Commenting on the findings, Catherine Johnson, Partner in Birketts’ Employment Team, said:

“The care sector is renowned for having high staff turnover, and employers in the sector often face claims on multiple legal grounds because their staff do not meet the two-year minimum service requirement for an ordinary unfair dismissal claim and instead pursue ‘automatic’ unfair dismissal claims.

“This includes whistleblowing, as well as discrimination and/or victimisation, which do not require a minimum length of service. However, unlike ordinary unfair dismissal claims, these claims attract unlimited compensation, are complex to handle, and will often require a preliminary hearing to determine issues, such as whether any aspects of the claim are out of time. It is also common for claimants in the care sector to name individual managers as respondents, along with their employer, adding to the complexity. These factors can considerably increase the costs of defending claims.

“Because of this, the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill – which will remove the two-year minimum service requirement for bringing an unfair dismissal claim – could, in some respects, be regarded as a mixed blessing for care sector employers. While the number of claims is likely to increase, some of these should be more ‘straightforward’ to manage in the future.”

“These challenges, combined with those posed by the recently announced immigration crackdown on care workers, paint a bleak picture for the sector. Employers should therefore act now to get their houses in order before these new measures take effect.”

ON DISCIPLINARIES AND GRIEVANCES:

“Employment claims pose huge costs for businesses – both financially and from a resources perspective. While managers may view grievances and disciplinaries as inconvenient, they must take care not to rush their investigations as this could increase the risk of claims being successful. This is where good manager training in investigations and disciplinaries could make all the difference.

“While the courts and tribunals are still grappling with a backlog in employment claims and new workplace rights on the horizon, including a ‘day one’ right to claim unfair dismissal, employers in the care sector would do well to ensure they are ahead of the curve and tackle any potential claims early on to avoid costly tribunals.”

The most common reason cited by respondents from care businesses for settling employment tribunal claims was witness credibility (36%), with the cost of defending. claims a close second (34%). Settlement of claims in the sector often comes late in the. process, most commonly the day before (25%) or during the hearing itself (28%).

Birketts advises employers to implement clear workplace policies, provide quality training to line managers and maintain open lines of communications between management and employees to avoid an escalation of issues.

LAST MINUTE SETTLEMENTS

The study showed that on average in the past 24 months, the majority of respondents (59%) reported settling employment tribunal claims before the final hearing, slightly lower than the average across all sectors (62%). A quarter (25%) of HR professionals surveyed reported that employment tribunal claims were settled the day before the hearing was due to commence.

Birketts says earlier settlement, particularly using Acas early conciliation, will often save time and reduce costs for employers facing a tribunal claim, although this will not be appropriate to all claims. For instance, care sector claimants are typically unrepresented, which can make it difficult to secure a sensible settlement at an early stage in the process (or at all).

Danforth Care Homes Wins Prestigious Stars of Social Care Award for Care Home Design

Danforth Care Homes has been named the winner of The Care Home Design Award at the 2025 Stars of Social Care Awards, a national event that celebrates excellence and innovation across the care sector.

The judges praised Danforth Care Homes for its exceptional, person-centred design that combines high functionality, wellbeing, and sustainability.

In their announcement, the Stars of Social Care Awards said: ‘Danforth creates environments where residents thrive physically and emotionally. Their thoughtful design approach transforms care settings into true homes, enhancing quality of life and fostering a deep sense of belonging.’

Built by LNT Care Developments, Danforth Care Homes feature ensuite bedrooms for all residents, bright and open social spaces, sensory-rich outdoor areas, plush cinema rooms, and in-house beauty salons. Through use of solar panels and ground source heat pump technology, each Danforth care home is EPC

A rated can be operated as a Carbon Free Green home, promoting sustainability and eco-friendly standards.

Kate Desmond, Managing Director at Danforth Care Homes, commented, “We’re so honoured to receive this award. Design in social care is not just about bricks and mortar – it’s about creating spaces where people can thrive and feel valued.

“This recognition affirms our mission to combine excellence in care with compassion in every Danforth care home.”

Danforth Care Homes were also finalists in The Outstanding Director Award, The Outstanding Care Home Provider Award, and The Learning and Development Award categories.

Maxwell Andrews, Danforth Care Homes’ Business Support Manager, was highly commended in The Great Marketeer Award category for his efforts in ‘bringing care to life through innovative, heartfelt marketing’, and ‘redefining how care is understood and making a lasting impact across the sector’.

Care Home Is Bursting With Pride!

Local Care home Elgar Court in Malvern, was bursting with PRIDE at the weekend as they celebrated this annual LGBT event with residents, staff and the local community.

A delicious array of cocktails were made by a guest Cocktail Mixologist from Worcester for everyone to enjoy, as they were entertained by the live music throughout the afternoon.

Residents had prepared creative rainbows decorations to festoon their home to welcome in everyone, and the spectacular Malvern Ukulele band, provided the joyful toe tapping tunes and songs for all to sing along to and have a great time!

Cadwallader, Senior General Manager at the home, said: “Our

residents love to experience and learn about the diversity offered by Pride, and this month has been perfect – it was so lovely to see the home decorated with rainbows, and join in with the inclusivity of Pride Month.”

Malvin Hobbs, Barchester's PRIDE Ambassador for the Company and Senior Care lead at Elgar Court said, “Thank you to the residents, staff and the entertaining Malvern Ukulele band, for making this afternoon such a success. I am so proud of the team that helped me put this together.”

Elgar Court provides residential care, respite care and support for those living with Dementia.

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Nailsea Mum Shares Her Care Story

When Carole Buckley’s son David was born in 1989, there were no early signs that he was different. “He was full term, a normal delivery, he seemed to tick every box on what looked like a healthy and thriving newborn,” she recalls.

But by the time David was 18 months old, Carole and her husbandboth doctors - began to notice signs that their son wasn’t developing like other children. Before he turned three, David was diagnosed with autism, a relatively early diagnosis for that time.

Now 36, David is a tall, robust and physically healthy man with autism, epilepsy, severe learning disabilities, and no verbal communication. He lives happily and safely at Beeches, a Cygnet Social Care service in Retford, where he has flourished, thanks to consistent support, long-standing relationships with staff, and a setting that truly understands his needs.

But that journey has not been easy.

FIGHTING FOR THE RIGHT SUPPORT

David’s early years were spent at home in Nailsea, near Bristol, attending a local school for children with special needs. But as he approached 16, his educational review concluded that his needs could no longer be met in that environment.

“He was hormonal, grumpy, sometimes violent. He was 6’4, non-verbal, epileptic, clearly a young man with very complex needs,” says Carole. “We were fighting tooth and nail with the local authority to find a place that could properly support him.”

Eventually, after extensive searching and dozens of enquiries, the family found Broughton House in Lincoln, a Cygnet Social Care service. From their first visit, Carole knew it was the right place.

“I must have phoned 25 different services and visited at least 12 of them, but it wasn’t until I walked through the door at Broughton House that I breathed a sigh of relief, confident I’d found somewhere that could make him happy,” she said.

“I had a tour, I saw residents who all looked happy, I met staff, and I knew it was the right place.”

BROUGHTON HOUSE

In 2006, David moved into Broughton House, and everything changed.

“He went from being totally dependent on us, to not needing us at all. And that was devastating. It felt like a bereavement, I had a grief reaction,” Carole says. “Most children grow up and leave home gradually. But for us, it was like a cliff edge.

“It all happened at once. You go from your life being almost consumed by your caring role, to not having it at all. Although you know he is absolutely in the right place, getting the care he needs, as a Mum and a Dad, we found it hard to let go.

“After we dropped him off I cried all the way home but the staff were

supportive and phoned me twice that day to let me know he was settling in and happy.”

Despite the emotional pain of seeing David leave home, the changes in David were astonishing. “He blossomed,” Carole explains. “We didn’t see him for four weeks to give him a proper chance to settle and the difference was incredible. He started using utensils, became independent in toileting, he even did a paper round. Essentially, he grew up and he did it really quickly, it was amazing.

“He absolutely, completely justified all the fighting and battling we had done to get in there.”

After seven years of progress at Broughton House, David was ready for a new home more suitable to his existing needs. He moved on to Beeches, another Cygnet Social Care service in Retford in 2013, where he continues to thrive.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTINUITY AND CARE

What sets Beeches apart, Carole believes, is the incredible dedication and consistency of the team.

“Kev, his key worker, has known him for 11 years and Amy, the deputy manager, even longer. That kind of staff retention is rare, and it makes such a difference,” she says.

“They get great joy from seeing David happy. They know what he loves – loud rock music, musical theatre, trampolining, going for a ride in the bus when the weather’s miserable. They make sure he has a great time.”

Carole added that communication with the family is regular and reassuring. “We get at least a weekly call and more if something happens. That degree of contact gives you enormous faith in the service. They work hard to build relationships not just with their residents, but with the loved ones. They invest time in getting to know you as well,

and you always feel so warmly welcomed when you visit.

“There’s a storybook that shows David’s life so far, because he can’t tell you himself. That’s really crucial if there’s staff who perhaps don’t know him quite so well, they can see immediately what his likes and dislikes are and sets them on the front foot with him.”

For Carole, seeing David happy and thriving is everything. “We know he is going to need care for the rest of his life and that’s always going to be an ongoing worry. But the skills he has learnt, like having good personal hygiene, going to the toilet independently, eating with utensils, they might seem small, but it’s huge for David. We’re so proud of him.”

DIFFICULTY IN LETTING GO

Though David now lives more than 150 miles away, Carole and her husband visit monthly. They even bought a mobile home nearby to stay close when needed.

“It was incredibly hard to let go,” Carole admits. “You suffer guilt. You lose that intense caring role, and start to have a life again. That brings relief but also guilt.”

She added: “We’ve been like swans. It might have looked serene, but underneath we were paddling furiously. Now, we see him enjoying musical theatre, swimming, trampolining and generally just living life. He deserves that happiness. And we’ve absolutely found that for him.”

ADVICE TO OTHER CARERS

To other carers facing similar transitions, Carole is clear: “First of all, it will hurt. But you have to remember, you’re doing the right thing. You’ve got to recognise the guilt you'll feel because actually you'll start to have a better life when you lose this intense caring role. When you’re a carer, you don't have shifts. You work 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That level of responsibility eases when they go into a home and it frees you up a bit to start doing things again which were always difficult.

“Also, go and see the service first. Meet the staff. Trust your instincts. I knew Broughton House was right the moment I walked in. Make sure you fight until it feels right for you.”

On what the future holds for David, Carole adds: “My hope is simple and it’s that he stays happy. That he can keep doing the things he loves. Musical theatre, holidays, swimming. I just want him to enjoy life.”

Reflecting on their journey, Carole adds: “We are so incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped him over the years. Cygnet really appreciates carers, they run support groups, have ambassadors, and make the effort to know us. That really matters.

“David didn't grow up like other children. He needed us, and then suddenly, he didn’t. That was so hard. But now, he’s where he needs to be. He’s safe and he’s thriving. We couldn’t be prouder.”

Celebrations Galore At Bristol Home As It Marks 25th Birthday

There were plenty of celebrations at a Bristol home as it celebrated being open for 25 years.

MHA Hartcliffe first opened its doors in 2000 and to celebrate had a range of activities and events, including a afternoon tea where they looked through pictures showing how the home has developed to a summer barbeque party.

A special flag to commemorate the 25 years was made for the home and is proudly displayed at the front of the home.

The home provides nursing care for 65 residents.

Angela Osbourne, administration manager said: “We had a great time celebrating the 25th birthday of MHA Hartcliffe.

“The afternoon tea party and the barbeque party were both very successful events and it was nice to

see so many people come and join in with celebrations.

“Both events were real team efforts and everyone played their part in making sure everything went smoothly.

“Being here for 25 years is a great achievement and we felt like it needed to be celebrated.

“We have put up a display board in the main reception with pictures of residents and staff from years gone by.

“The memory board did make some of us slightly emotional, but it was nice to look back and see some familiar faces.

“We have some staff members who have been here for over 18 years, and you do feel proud to work in such a great environment.

“To be here in the heart of the community for 25 years is something we are all very proud of and we look forward to creating more memories and being here for at least another 25 years.

Kailash Manor Care Home Partners with Northumbria University in Pioneering

NIHR Research on South Asian Elder Care

Kailash Manor, part of TLC Care’s cultural care home network, recently welcomed researchers from Northumbria University as part of a pioneering NIHR-funded study into culturally inclusive care for older adults from South Asian backgrounds in the Northeast.

Led by Payal Chhabra, Support Manager at TLC Care, the research aimed to explore how care homes can better support the cultural, emotional, and spiritual needs of South Asian elders. With limited culturally specific care options available regionally, the study hopes to inform best practices and future care models across the UK.

During their visit, the research team and members of Newcastle’s South Asian community toured both cultural homes of TLC Care. At Kailash Manor they experienced firsthand how cultural elements are thoughtfully integrated into daily life, from traditional cuisine and multilingual staff to designated prayer spaces and celebrations of

religious festivals.

“The researchers were deeply moved by the sense of belonging and dignity fostered in our home,” said Payal Chhabra. “They noted the attention to detail in our approach, be it food, language, or décor and how these elements create a true home away from home.”

The team praised Kailash Manor’s unique, culturally attuned model and showed keen interest in understanding the challenges of implementing such care. They were particularly inspired by the strong community recognition and appreciation for the home’s inclusive ethos.

Kailash Manor is proud to contribute to this vital research and remains committed to setting a benchmark in personalised, culturally enriched elder care.

CARE HOME OPEN WEEK

CELEBRATED ACROSS THE UK

Care Home Open Week - Superior Care Style

June has been an amazing month for Superior Care Midlands and in particular, Care Home Open Week 2025.

All four homes within the group are still buzzing from the energy, laughter, and spirit that brought the local community together, with the aim for the Week being to dispel misconceptions about care homes and highlight the truly person-centred care provided.

The week kicked off with a splash – quite literally! The Group's sponsored car wash at Portway House and Newbury Manor was an absolute hit. Residents, staff, and even some enthusiastic family members rolled up their sleeves, soaping up cars with gusto. It was a fantastic way to raise money for some new garden equipment, but more importantly, it was a chance for everyone to enjoy the sunshine, and work together for a common cause.

Also, the much-anticipated World Food Day was also enjoyed across all of the homes. The company's talented kitchen team, with input from our residents, prepared a mouth-watering array of dishes from across the globe. From aromatic curries to delicious pasta dishes and exotic desserts, it was a true culi-

nary adventure.

Residents shared stories of their travels and favourite foods, creating a wonderful atmosphere of shared experiences and cultural exploration. Food, as always, proved to be a fantastic connector, sparking conversations and smiles all around.

Throughout the week, the gardens welcomed lots of visitors and families and staff worked outdoors to keep everyone cool and the plants well hydrated.

Faye Gailey, home manager at Portway House, said: "Every activity, every conversation, and every moment of Care Home Open Week reinforced our commitment to person-centred care. This isn't just a buzzword for us; it's the very foundation of everything we do. It means understanding each resident as an individual, respecting their choices, celebrating their uniqueness, and tailoring our care to their specific needs and preferences. Seeing families witness their loved ones laughing, engaging in activities, and truly feeling at home was the greatest reward."

Ellesmere Port Home Marks Care Home

Open Week 2025 with Special Visitors

An Ellesmere Port home welcomed the arrival of Care Home Open Week by inviting in some special friends.

MHA Mayfields welcomed Shrek and Fiona, a mother and son duo of donkeys from Alwood donkeys, based in Wirral.

The home also welcomed pupils from Rivacre Primary School, who spent time talking and playing various games with residents.

Care Home Open Week 2025 took place from the 16th of June through to the 22nd.

This annual event, organised by Championing Social Care, aims to connect care homes with their local communities, showcasing the positive work of the care sector and providing opportunities for the public to visit and learn more about care homes.

The theme for 2025 was "The Big Summer Weekender," encouraging residents and visitors to share and celebrate summer memories.

Throughout the day around 100 people including staff, residents and their family members were present.

MHA Mayfields provides residential dementia care for our 46 residents.

Julie Minshull, activity coordinator said: “We had a great time marking Care Home Open Week 2025.

“It's the first time we have used Alwood Donkeys, and it proved to be a very successful decision.

“Both Shrek and Fiona were really well behaved and the residents loved having them around.

“Our residents really got into the party atmosphere and wore flower garlands.

“Having the pupils from Rivacre Primary School was the icing on the cake as they spent time getting to know the residents and it was lovely to see.

“Putting on intergenerational activities at the home is something we always try and consider, and it's something we hope we can do again.

“We received some lovely feedback and comments from the family members of the residents, telling us how much they enjoyed the day.

“We have put up a collage of pictures from the day in the foyer as a reminder for all of us to look back on and also show visitors what we have been up to.

“It was a great event, and we are already looking forward to seeing what we can do next year.”

MP Graham Leadbitter Visits Elgin Care Home to Celebrate National Care Home Open Week

Graham Leadbitter, Member of Parliament for Moray West, Nairn & Strathspey, paid a special visit to Spynie Care Home in Elgin as part of National Care Home Open Week.

National Care Home Open Week, organised annually by Championing Social Care, is a UK-wide initiative designed to connect care homes with their local communities, break down common misconceptions about life in care, and celebrate the vital work of care professionals across the country.

During his visit, Mr Leadbitter spent considerable time speaking with residents and staff, gaining insight into daily life at Spynie and joining in with some of the home’s organised activities. His visit was warmly welcomed by everyone at the home.

Commenting, Graham Leadbitter MP said: “I was delighted to be able to mark National Care Home Open Week by meeting with the staff and

residents at Spynie care home.

“It’s clear a great deal of care is put in by everyone there to ensure the residents are comfortable and able to play an active role in the wider local community.

“My appreciation goes out to care home staff throughout Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey for the efforts they put in year-round, but particularly now as we marked this important week.”

Maggie Scott, Manager of Spynie Care Home, said: "It was a pleasure to welcome Mr Leadbitter to Spynie. The residents really enjoyed chatting with him and showing him what life in our home is all about. Events like National Care Home Open Week are so important for building strong links with our local community and highlighting the positive experiences of those living and working in social care."

Care South Welcomes the Community to Join Homes in Care Home Open Week Celebrations

Residential and home care provider and registered charity, Care South, is welcoming in the community during a range of special events.

All care homes operated by not-for-profit charity Care South are hosting events to mark Care Home Open Week, which ran from Monday 16 June to Sunday 22 June 2025. The national initiative, organised by Championing Social Care, aims to connect care homes with their local communities and champion the warm, caring, and vibrant environments that care homes provide.

Throughout the week, Care South’s homes based across Dorset, Somerset and north Devon hosted a variety of activities including an interactive, dementia-friendly outdoor performance, Royal

Ascot-themed afternoon tea, and live music and entertainment which are all open to the public. Visitors had the chance to take an informal tour of the homes, chat to the dedicated staff, and learn about the care ser-

vices available. The events were also open to anyone who may be interested in working in one of Care South’s homes and who can find out more about the roles available.

Simon Bird, CEO of Care South, said: “Care Home Open Week is a fantastic opportunity for us to open our homes to the local communities so that they can see how our residents’ lives are full of Food, Fun and Friendship. Our dedicated teams provide high quality care to our residents, who are encouraged and enabled to feel happy, fulfilled and respected in our homes. Every resident has access to a daily programme of activities on offer for them to continue enjoying their favourite hobbies and interests, so we look forward to welcoming in the community to take part in these activities with them.”

Little Movers Bring Joy, Dance, and Community Spirit to Meltham Care Home During Care Home Open Week 2025

As part of this year’s Care Home Open Week celebrations, HCOne’s Greenacres Care Home in Meltham, Holmfirth, welcomed a lively and heartwarming visit from Little Movers (Huddersfield & Stockbridge) and Meltham C of E Primary School’s Reception Class. The event, led by Jo Tremere, brought together residents and children for an unforgettable afternoon of music, movement, and joy. Care Home Open Week, held from 16th to 22nd June 2025, is a national initiative designed to strengthen relationships between care homes and their local communities. At Greenacres, this aim came to life as laughter and music echoed through the home, creating a powerful moment of intergenerational connection.

Claire Wilson, Lifestyle Manager at HC-One’s Greenacres Care Home, shared:

“We are passionate about creating moments that bring both mental and physical benefits to our residents. Activities like this go beyond entertainment, they touch hearts, lift spirits, and remind our residents that they are a valued part of a wider community.”

Little Movers, an initiative focused on encouraging movement and

fun in young children, brought vibrant energy into the care home. Residents and children danced, clapped, and shared smiles throughout the session, with even the most reserved residents visibly moved by the experience.

Claire recalled one particularly touching scene:

“There was one lady who is usually immobile, but she was so happy that she was almost jumping out of her chair to join in, her face just lit up. Residents that don’t normally get involved were smiling, clapping, and dancing along with the children. Their happiness was truly visible, it shone out.”

The session not only lifted the spirits of the residents but also offered the children a meaningful chance to engage with older generations, nurturing empathy, understanding, and respect for the elderly from an early age.

Greenacres Care Home is proud to have celebrated Care Home Open Week 2025 by showcasing the power of community and connection, and looks forward to building on this success with more intergenerational activities in the future.

Connaught Care’s Leadership Team Step Into Frontline

Roles as Part of an Industry-Leading Initiative

On Wednesday, senior managers at the Connaught Care Collection spent a day working in frontline roles at each of the group’s six care homes across the country.

Part of a twice-yearly initiative called ‘A Day in the Life Of’, this scheme aims to give the leadership team a better understanding of the daily challenges and pressures of working in a home.

Taking on various positions in catering, hospitality, events, maintenance, administration, and care, they were able to learn directly from the local teams and receive honest feedback about how the local teams can be better supported by management.

The scheme was arranged to coincide with Care Home Open Week 2025 – a national campaign aiming to connect care homes with their communities and challenge misconceptions about the sector. In this spirit, the managers hope ‘A Day in the Life Of’ will not only shine a light on the exceptional work being done in the homes, but also help foster greater public trust and appreciation for the care sector as a whole.

Connaught Care’s CEO Andrew Winstanley offers his thoughts: "We are committed to building a company where leadership is hands-on, responsive, and grounded in the practical realities of running a home. Many of us have worked in the sector for decades, however when you’re away from the frontlines it can be easy to forget how challenging the work can be. That’s why it’s so crucial to have a regular hands-on reminder of the incredible work our homes do to care for their residents”. Keen to take part in the project himself, this week Andrew took on a maintenance role at Willowbrook View care home in Swindon; whilst COO Amanda Smith has also been supporting the care team there. Each of Connaught Care’s five other homes also welcomed different members of the management team to shadow their staff.

Laurence Feather, (Connaught’s new Head of People) joined the care team at Henbrook House in St Neots, whilst Emma Clake (Head of Sales & Marketing) worked in catering at The Chase in nearby Huntingdon. Over at Portsdown View in Bedhampton, Andrew Wrensch (Group Training & Development Manager) assisted the events and activities team.

Meanwhile, Iain Gordon (Finance Director) supported hospitality and reception services at Meadowbrook in Bishop’s Stortford, and at Waterhaven Place in Chichester Lynn Howie (Operations Support) and Michelle Bladen (Regional Operations & Quality Director) contributed through maintenance and care roles respectively.

Amanda Smith, Chief Operating Officer, shares her thoughts: "This experience is not about symbolic gestures. It’s about truly understanding the pace, pressures and joys of life in our homes. If we want to design the best systems and working environments possible, we must build them from the inside out. The day is also a chance to connect with the people who live and work at the homes. Meaningful connections and time spent truly listening help shape not only better care environments, but also stronger, more united teams."

Laurence Feather, Head of People, adds: “Working directly with our extraordinary care team at Henbrook House in St Neots has been, in equal measure, a pleasure, eye-opening, and energising. I have so much respect for the physical and emotional resilience this work requires – and seeing how hard our team works makes me even more driven to make Connaught THE place where people want to come, stay, and grow their careers.”

This commitment to improving employee wellbeing and overall qualityof-life in the homes is a central plank of Connaught Care’s corporate strategy. The group has introduced a range of initiatives to support staff, including healthy habit rewards through YuLife, confidential counselling via Health Assured, annual health checks with Bluecrest Wellness, and tax-saving salary sacrifice schemes in partnership with Mintago. Together, these benefits are designed to reduce stress, boost retention, and create a workplace where people feel genuinely valued.

Andrew Winstanley again: "We’ve always believed that it takes a village to deliver great care. That’s why offering the best support we can to the homes – so in turn they can offer the best care possible for residents – is so crucial. This project is about reminding ourselves of that and strengthening the bonds between our team members, our residents, and our communities. The experience is something we’ll carry with us long after the day is over."

The initiative concluded with a reflection and feedback session at the end of Care Home Open Week, with insights shared across the business to shape future improvements in training, resourcing, and team culture.

Midlands Care Group Celebrates ‘The Power of Music’ to Mark Care Home Open Week 2025

All 15 homes across the Midlands-based Macc Care group marked this year’s Care Home Open Week (16 to 22 June) with a celebration of music, welcoming families, local communities, schools and performers for a series of vibrant events.

At Wulfrun Rose, near Wolverhampton, residents stepped into the world of global rhythms during a cultural music workshop at nearby Berrybrook School. The intergenerational session explored Native American songs and traditional South African music, sparking shared creativity and joy between generations.

Studley Rose, based in Studley, turned up the volume with its inaugural ‘Power of Music Festival’, a day-long celebration that took residents and guests on a musical journey through the decades. Melissa opened the stage with wartime classics from the 1940s, before Definitely Maybe brought the crowd to their feet with iconic 90s hits by Oasis.

The festivities extended beyond the stage with a bar tent, street food vendors, an ice cream van and a 40ft inflatable obstacle course that proved popular with children, grown-ups and staff alike. The event was such a success that staff now plan to host it annually.

Elsewhere in the group, Leighton Rose, situated in Leighton Buzzard, welcomed the Keep On Rockin’ community choir, whose harmonies filled the home with energy and warmth, followed by a lively set from Billy Keys, whose cheeky tunes had the residents laughing and cheering.

A memorable cheese and wine evening with live music also brought residents and families together at Blythe Rose, located in Solihull, offering a relaxed and sociable atmosphere in which to connect over favourite songs and moments of joy.

Bhav Amlani, of Macc Care Group, said: “Music has an extraordinary ability to lift the spirit and bring people together, as well as unlock memories – something that resonates deeply with our residents who are living with dementia. That was evident in every one of our homes last week.

He continued: “Care Home Open Week proved to be a brilliant opportunity to open our doors and showcase not only the care we provide, but the vibrant communities that exist within our homes every day.”

The weeklong celebrations reaffirmed the importance of music in later life – from promoting wellbeing and connection, to simply having fun.

Loganberry Lodge Mark National Care Home Open Week with Summer BBQ

Residents, staff, and members of the local community came together at Loganberry Lodge Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group, on Wednesday 18th June to celebrate National Care Home Open Week with a BBQ and live music event.

Hosted from midday onwards, the celebration was held in the gardens of the Loganberry Lodge and brought together a wonderful mix of people, sunshine, and song.

The event was made even more special with a visit from the Colchester City Mayor, Michael Lilly, who joined in the day, enjoying the food, music, and warm atmosphere.

The day was a true testament to the spirit of together-

ness, with residents, staff, and the activities team working side by side to make the event a success. Burgers sizzled on the grill, hot dogs were served fresh, and the sound of singing and laughter echoed throughout the grounds.

The idea for the celebration came about during team discussions about how best to mark Open Week, and it proved to be a perfect way to show the local community that the home is open, friendly, and full of life.

From start to finish, the event was a highlight – with every moment filled with joy, connection, and community spirit.

Hastings Home Adds Royal Touch To Garden Party For Care Home Open Week

A Hastings home added a royal touch to their garden party in aid of Care Home Open Week.

MHA Lauriston decided to have a royal garden party for Care Home Open Week and as a touch to mark the King's Birthday. Care Home Open Week 2025 took place from the 16th of June through to the 22nd.

This annual event, organised by Championing Social Care, aims to connect care homes with their local communities, showcasing the positive work of the care sector and providing opportunities for the public to visit and learn more about care homes.

Staff donned fancy dress and crowns, and the home was decked up in flags of the United Kingdom.

The home arranged for some live entertainment as well as providing a barbeque for staff, residents and visitors to enjoy.

A raffle was arranged from which £220 was raised for the home's amenities fund.

MHA Lauriston provides residential, nursing and residential dementia care for 60 residents.

Emma Lawlor, activities coordinator said: “The royal garden party was a very successful event and one that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

“It was a real team effort, we had family members including my daughter and Dionne, the home manager's mum, getting involved in making sure the event was a success.

“The royal theme was Dionne’s idea, and it worked really well.

“We had some great support from the community, including businesses in the area who donated prizes for the raffle.

“The weather was kind to us, which allowed us to spend a lot of time outdoors.

“We are hoping to put the money towards repairing our minibus so we can continue to take residents out on trips and activities.

“On behalf of the home, I want to thank everyone who contributed to the day and made it a successful and memorable event.”

Selston Care Home Celebrates Care Home Open Week with Community ‘Hoedown Party’

To mark this year’s National Care Home Open Week, a Selston care home invited its local community to join in on the celebrations by throwing a ‘Hoedown Party’.

Wren Hall care home, on Nottingham Road, recently hosted a fun-filled afternoon packed with a variety of activities and entertainment – with everyone from the local community being invited.

This year's theme for Care Home Open Week, which ran from June 16 – 22, was ‘The Power of Music’, celebrating how it enhances the lives of those living in care homes and brings communities together.

The dedicated nation-wide week encouraged care homes across the UK to open their doors to their local communities and host events to promote understanding of the care home environment and support for the social care sector.

Wren Hall’s celebration included a wide range of activities, with the highlight being a live performance from Hanousha, a local singer, who brought the musical theme to life. Guests also enjoyed a petting zoo, face painting, fancy dress and a tombola and raffle,

with plenty of prizes on offer.

For those looking for some friendly fun and competition, garden games ran throughout the afternoon, and ‘Wren’s Got Talent’ gave family members and visitors the chance to showcase their skills and talents.

There was also an abundance of food on offer, including hot roast beef, pork cobs and hot dogs. The home’s Tea Room served cakes and ice creams alongside tea and coffee, while the Pond View Bar offered a selection of soft and alcoholic drinks.

Anita Astle MBE, managing director of Wren Hall, said: “We really enjoyed opening our doors to the local community for this fantastic event. Care Home Open Week is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the people around us and show the amazing work that takes place in care homes every day. Our Hoedown Party was a day full of entertainment and heartwarming moments, and it was a joy to share it with our family members, their families and local visitors.”

HC-One Care Homes Enjoy ‘The Big Summer Weekender’ for Care Home Open Week

HC-One's care homes welcomed residents, colleagues, friends, family and the wider community to their events across Care Home Open Week.

Care Home Open Week is a national event hosted by Championing Social Care, designed to connect care homes with their local communities. The week will offer care homes the opportunity to showcase their range of services, provide tours of their facilities, and highlight the activities that are offered to residents. The event is also a reminder to the homes’ neighbours that they are there if they need support.

Aberford Hall Care Home, Leeds

a row.

• Everyone dressed up for the occasion with beachthemed outfits and accessories.

Michelle Stables, Home Manager at HC-One’s

Aberford Hall Care Home, said:

The home hosted a fabulous Summer Weekender event, including:

• A morning of live music from Kim and Dave, featuring classic hits and musical favourites including Oliver! and Elvis Presley.

• An afternoon of fun-filled outdoor games in the garden such as swing ball, basketball, and 3-in-1

“Care Home Open Week gave us a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together and celebrate the warmth and spirit of our home. We’re so proud of the incredible team here at Aberford Hall, and it was fantastic to showcase the fun, care, and companionship that fills our home every day.”

Aberpennar Court Care Home, Mountain Ash

Aberpennar Court Care Home, run by HC-One Wales, located in Miskin, Mountain Ash, welcomed visitors and guests from their local community to participate in this year’s Care Home Open Week celebrations

Residents and colleagues of the HC-One Wales owned care home enjoyed meeting MS Vikki

Howells and chatting to her about what life is like at Aberpennar Court Care Home – which is an integral part of the local Miskin community.

Aberpennar Court Care Home also hosted a Woodstock party where guests enjoyed the sunshine in the home’s outdoor garden area and listened to local singer, Craig who performed a variety of 60s music tunes. Everyone was dressed up in festival attire and enjoyed the BBQ refreshments on offer including hot dogs and burgers. To end the day, the home hosted their ‘Quiz of the Week’ and everyone enjoyed a good old-fashioned sing along.

Throughout the week, residents, colleagues, families, and friends enjoyed a variety of fun-filled activities culminating in an end-of-week celebration at the home.

The event also sought to connect the homes with their neighbours, highlighting the communal support that the home can provide. HC-One Wales’s chosen theme for this year’s Care Home Open Week was ‘The Big Summer Weekender’ emulating the nostalgic feel of British summer holidays with a variety of fun-filled activities culminating in end-of-week celebrations..

Rose Court Care Home, Radcliffe

Rose Court’s main celebrations took place on Wednesday 18th June, when the home opened its doors for a joyful and inclusive summer garden festival. Residents, colleagues, friends, family, and members of the wider community joined together to enjoy an afternoon filled with food, entertainment, and colourful decorations inspired by the golden days of British seaside holidays.

Rose Court hosted a fabulous afternoon with local drag queen Auntie Ginger, who entertained residents and guests with upbeat songs and lively

during his time as Lord

enjoyed a tour around the 89 bedded residential, nursing, residential dementia and nursing dementia care home including the café, cinema, pub, hairdressers, nursery room, ensuite bedrooms, kitchenette, quiet room and sensory room, and spent time chatting with residents and their families.

Perry Locks Care Home in Perry Barr, Birmingham

On Monday 16th June, Perry Locks Care Home welcomed in Paulette Hamilton, Member of Parliament (MP) for Birmingham Erdington and Interim (and Vice) Chair of the Health and Social Care Select Committee. erry Locks Care Home hosted a continental breakfast for MP Paulette Hamilton and residents to enjoy. MP Paulette Hamilton enjoyed meeting everybody and spending time with residents and colleagues. Paulette complimented Perry Locks’ beautiful sensory garden and enjoyed participating in the home’s musical quiz that took place. Later Paulette enjoyed some light refreshments whilst having a chat with residents, Mary and Valerie, who were delighted to meet Paulette who was interested in hearing

Fir Trees Care Home, Dukinfield, Tameside

Throughout the week, Fir Trees Care Home hosted a variety of engaging events, including a traditional afternoon tea where residents’ friends and families were welcomed to enjoy delicious treats and refreshments. A musical afternoon was also held on Thursday 19th June, featuring local singer Shaun, who delighted residents with classic tunes. Colleagues and residents danced, sang along, and shared a joyful afternoon together.

Nicole Gunning, HC-One’s Fir Trees Care Home Manager, said: “Care Home Open Week is such an important opportunity for us to connect

with our wonderful local community. It was fantastic to see so many residents, relatives, colleagues, and visitors enjoying the celebrations, and to be able to showcase the exceptional care and facilities we provide here at Fir Trees. We were delighted to open our doors and welcome everyone in.”

Katie Hey, Wellbeing Coordinator at HC-One’s Fir Trees, added: “It is so lovely to see residents enjoying time with their families and colleagues all coming together to ensure our residents have a good time!”

about Perry Locks' development. Perry Locks Care Home was adorned in a variety of summer themed decorations, emulating the nostalgic feel of British summer holidays past and present provided a perfect setting for everyone to come together as a community, and to learn more about life at the care home.

Highclere Care Home, Milton Keynes

On Wednesday 18th June 2025, Highclere Care Home enjoyed a particularly special day. Residents spent the sunny morning in the garden with refreshments, while being entertained by Tim, a beloved musician from a local orchestra, who played various instruments for residents, always a highlight of his visits.

The home was also honoured to receive a visit from the Mayor of Milton Keynes, Councillor James Lancaster. The Mayor took time to engage with residents, tour the facilities, and appreciate the home’s warm,

welcoming atmosphere.

Residents John Hession and his daughter Margaret enjoyed a memorable moment posing for a photo with the Mayor, capturing the spirit of the day. Councillor James Lancaster, Mayor of Milton Keynes stated: “I am thrilled to have attended on what was a heartwarming and inspiring visit for myself today. The residents were full of joy and enthusiasm sharing their experiences, stories, and fascinating lives that they have had across the UK, but what stuck out most, was their love and passion for Milton Keynes.

Aberford Hall Care Home was transformed with vibrant summer-themed decorations – Hawaiian garlands, inflatable beach toys, and nostalgic décor set the scene for a joyful, sun-soaked celebration.

banter. The event also welcomed Dr. Carl AustinBehan OBE DL, Greater Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Community Ambassador. Carl, who last visited Rose Court

Mayor of Manchester (2016–2017),

HC-One Care Homes Enjoy ‘The Big Summer Weekender’ for Care Home Open Week

Brandon House Care Home, Coventry

Brandon House Care Home welcomed residents, colleagues, friends, family, and members of the wider community to a joyful musical open day on Wednesday 18th June – a key highlight of the week.

Meadowlands, Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf

Brandon House Care Home had the pleasure of hosting a special musical Open Day featuring a heartfelt performance from the Myton Hospice Choir. The home was filled with the sound of music, laughter, and celebration as residents and guests enjoyed an uplifting afternoon.

Brandon House was also honoured by a visit from the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Rachel Lancaster, who spent quality time with residents and toured the nursing dementia care home’s inviting spaces.

Merino Court Care Home, Greenock, Inverclyde

On Monday 16th June, Merino Court Care Home welcomed in Stuart McMillan, Member of Scottish

Parliament (MSP) for Greenock and Inverclyde. The home and members of the local community came together to celebrate summertime memories, past and present, and hosted a fabulous Summer Weekender event.

Morag Hynes, Home Manager at HC-One Scotland’s Merino Court Care Home, commented:

“We were delighted to open our doors to the community for Care Home Open Week and showcase the warm, welcoming environment we’re so proud of here at Merino Court.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our dedicated team, connect with local people, and share the meaningful relationships that make our home truly special. Events like these help break down barriers and highlight the wonderful lives being lived in care homes every day."

Priory Gardens Care Home, Pontefract

Priory Gardens Care Home welcomed residents, colleagues, friends, family, and members of the wider community to a joyful event – complete with themed entertainment, refreshments, and a sprinkling of magic.

One of the highlights of the week was a magical afternoon variety show headlined by Daz the Magician. As the home’s firstever variety show, the event truly captivated everyone in attendance. From dazzling magic tricks and cheeky ventriloquism to toe-tapping songs and a dash of comedy, the

performance offered something for everyone.

It was heartwarming to see families, residents, and colleagues joining in the fun – smiling, singing, and laughing throughout.

Residents Anita and Jean were even spotted posing for a photo with Magic Daz after the show.

Karen Weaver, HC-One Priory Garden Care Home’s Wellbeing Co-ordinator, shared:

“It was so lovely to hear all the laughter and singing, and to bring something a little different to the home and residents.”

Victoria Manor Care Home, Whitley, Coventry

On Thursday 19th June, Victoria Manor Care Home welcomed in Zarah Sultana, Member of Parliament (MP) for Coventry South. The home and members of the local community came together to celebrate summertime memories, past and present, and hosted a fabulous Summer Weekender event.

Tina Booton, Home Manager at HC-One’s Victoria Manor Care Home, commented: “We were delight-

ed to welcome members of the local community into Victoria Manor during Care Home Open Week. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the warm, inclusive environment we’ve created here, and to celebrate the incredible work of our colleagues who make a real difference every day. The smiles, conversations, and connections made during the event truly reflected the spirit of our home."

On Saturday 21st June, Meadowlands Care Home welcomed in Gerald Jones, Member of Parliament (MP) for Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare. The home and members of the local community came together to celebrate summertime memories, past and present, and hosted a fabulous Summer Weekender event.

Terrie-Ann Thomas, Home Manager at HC-One Wales’s Meadowlands Care Home, commented:

“We were delighted to welcome visitors to Meadowlands Care Home during Care Home Open Week. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the warm, supportive environment we’ve created here and to connect with members of our local community. The event highlighted the dedication of our caring team and the vibrant lives of the residents who make Meadowlands such a special place."

Coppice Court Care Home,

Eastbourne

Coppice Court celebrated Care Home Open Week with a lively summer-themed garden party as part of HC-One’s ‘The Big Summer Weekender’ – a celebration inspired by nostalgic British summer holidays.

The event featured an array of festivities including a performance by talented local singer Cydney, which had residents and guests up on their feet dancing and singing along. One of the most popular highlights was a visit from an ice cream van, which brought smiles all around as residents enjoyed classic summertime treats.

Head Chef Vince served up delicious barbecue favourites, with guests eagerly queuing while enjoying the music and atmosphere in the home’s garden area. The care home was beautifully adorned with summer-themed decorations, creating the perfect setting for a joyous and inclusive celebration.

Natalie Smith, Home Manager at HC-One’s Coppice Court Care Home, said: “It was fantastic to see our community come together to celebrate Care Home Open Week. From dancing and singing along with Cydney to enjoying classic BBQ food and ice cream, everyone had a wonderful time. These events are so important for building strong relationships with our neighbours and showing the warmth, care, and fun that thrives within our home.”

Meadow Bank House Care Home, Bolton

Meadow Bank House hosted a vibrant summer garden party, complete with entertainment, delicious refreshments, outdoor games, and a nostalgic nod to classic British seaside holidays. Residents, colleagues, families and visitors came together in the sunshine, capturing joyful moments during a special outdoor photo session.

Meadow Bank House was adorned with bright, summery decorations, bringing to life the essence of a traditional British summer holiday. Events included live music, beach-themed refreshments, funfair-style games, and nostalgic seaside entertainment, bringing smiles and laughter to all who attended.

As well as fun for all ages, the open day served as a valuable opportunity to discuss careers in care and the many ways people can get involved through volunteering or community partnerships.

Jincy Lukose, Home Manager at HC-One’s Meadow Bank House Care Home, commented:

“It was heart-warming to see so many members of our local community, families, and colleagues come together to celebrate our Big Summer Weekend. The smiles, the shared memories, and the joy on residents' faces perfectly captured the spirit of what we do here every day. We were proud to showcase the incredible care and warmth that lives within our home.”

HC-One Care Homes Enjoy ‘The Big Summer Weekender’ for Care Home Open Week

Pytchley Court Care Home, Brixworth

HC-One’s Pytchley Court Care Home in Brixworth, Northampton, Northamptonshire, marked Care Home Open Week 2025 in style with a vibrant garden party that brought together residents, colleagues, families, local students, and distinguished guests including Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England.

The event featured live performances from local talent including a debut appearance from Reggae Ray, a soulful set by Lincoln Noel on piano, and energetic dance routines from The Qube, whose performers dazzled the audience with their skills. A delicious buffet lunch, lovingly prepared by the home’s kitchen team, was

enjoyed by all.

Students from Moulton College, who have played a key role in helping maintain the home’s gardens, were also in attendance and celebrated as a thank-you for their ongoing support.

Susan Watson, Home Manager at HC-One’s Pytchley Court Care Home, said: “Our Care Home Open Week celebration was a fantastic opportunity to bring together everyone who makes our home so special. From our amazing residents and team members to our supportive community partners, it was a joy to open our doors and share the spirit of Pytchley Court. We were honoured to welcome Professor Martin Green and proud to showcase the heart and warmth that define life in our home.”

Larchwood Care Home, Braintree, Essex

Larchwood Care Home, run by HC-One and located in Braintree, Essex, opened its doors to residents, colleagues, friends, family, and members of the local community for a vibrant Festival in the Garden Party, as well as a range of engaging events and activities, including:

Monday: Residents and staff enjoyed a lively game of volleyball.

• Tuesday: A heartwarming ‘Songs & Smiles’ session with babies and toddlers. On the afternoon, there

Residents of Adelaide House were thrilled to be joined by students and staff from Ashley Park School, whose visit brought joy and connection across generations. Guests were then treated to a dazzling performance by Rah Rah Theatre Company, who entertained with their lively Rock Around the Clock show – a highlight of the day that had everyone singing and smiling. The home

was a visit from the ice cream van, delighting everyone with cool treats.

• Wednesday: An outdoor garden picnic for International Picnic Day followed by a ‘Movement & Music’ session with Leanne from Frederick Care Home Entertainers.

Thursday: A spectacular ‘Festival in the Garden Party’ featuring live music from Pete George on electric guitar, where residents, staff, families, and guests sang and danced together.

Donna Owen, Senior Home Manager at HCOne’s Larchwood Care Home, said: “This week has been a brilliant celebration of everything that makes our home and community so special. ”

Slawomir Janik, HC-One’s Adelaide House Care Home Manager, said:

“Care Home Open Week is such an important event for us – it’s a chance to open our doors and bring the community in to see the incredible work we do every day. The party was a huge success and the performances and activities brought so much joy to residents and visitors alike. ”

Launton Grange Care Home, Bicester

days over Care Home Open Week.

Launton Grange Care Home held a ‘Very British Garden Party’ that perfectly captured the spirit of HCOne’s 2025 theme: ‘The Big Summer Weekender’, celebrating the nostalgia of classic British summer holi-

Launton Grange welcomed residents, colleagues, friends, family and members of the wider community into its beautiful gardens for an afternoon of sunshine, music, and traditional British fare. The weather was a glorious 28 degrees, and guests were treated to a live saxophone performance by Alan Hook, who provided a relaxing and joyful

summer soundtrack. Guests enjoyed an array of seasonal treats, including strawberries & cream, scones with clotted cream and jam, ice cream, and a refreshing jug of fruity Pimms. Garden games and laughter filled the air, as residents reminisced about summers gone by and created new memories with loved ones and neighbours.

Resident at HC-

One’s Launton Grange Care Home, Molly Boughton, aged 99, commented: "Thank you to everyone involved for such a lovely day. It was a wonderful afternoon, the sun was shining, the food was delicious, and the music was fabulous. A really lovely day."

Brize Meadow, Brize Norton

At Brize Meadow Care Home Open Week began on a sweet note with a delightful Afternoon Tea for All on Monday, where residents and visitors enjoyed delicious treats and warm conversations. One

visitor shared, "What a lovely space! Great for little get-togethers for family and friends."

On Tuesday, residents and community members took part in “Try It Out Tuesday”, featuring an energising Movement and Mobility Session followed by a colourful Strawberry Painting Craft Activity. It was a day filled with fun, creativity, and connections.

Midweek, Brize Meadow Lodge hosted an elegant Cheese and Wine Evening. Residents, colleagues, and guests sampled an indulgent spread of cheeses, prosecco, and fine wines, sparking mean-

On Monday 16th June, Eden House Care Home welcomed in Sam Rushworth, Member of Parliament (MP) for Bishop Auckland. The home and members of the local community came together to celebrate summertime memories, past and present, and hosted a fabulous Summer Weekender event. Residents and colleagues of the HC-One owned care home enjoyed meeting their MP, Sam Rushworth, and chatting to him about what life is like at Eden House Care Home – which is an inte-

ingful conversations and new friendships. The home’s commitment to creating vibrant social spaces was on full display.

On Thursday, culinary creativity took centre stage as Head Chef Debbie, a proud finalist for the Care Catering Award, led a hands-on Cake Decorating Class.

Residents, visitors, and colleagues learned expert piping techniques and crafted stunning floral cupcakes.

Resident Margaret England shared her joy, saying: "That is the first time I have ever decorated a cake! I never thought I would be learning something new at my age."

The celebrations concluded on Friday with a classic Community Fish and Chip Lunch, enjoyed by residents and visitors of all ages, in a warm and welcoming setting.

gral part of the local Bishop Auckland community. Nicholas Hatton, HC-One’s Eden House Care Home Manager, said:

“We were delighted to welcome our local community into Eden House as part of Care Home Open Week. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the warmth, compassion, and dedication that make our home so special. From engaging activities to meaningful conversations, the week was a true celebration of care, connection, and community spirit. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the event so memorable. "

New Guidelines For Care For Those With Learning Disabilities Or Autistic People

People with a learning disability and autistic people will get safer, more personalised care as the government publishes new guidelines for health and care providers to train staff.

The Oliver McGowan code of practice on statutory learning disability and autism training aims to ensure staff have the right skills to provide care and boost understanding of the needs of these groups of people. It sets out the standards that providers are expected to meet to be compliant with the law and help make sure patients are kept safe.

Those with a learning disability or autistic people face poorer health outcomes than the general population, and it is crucial that health and social care staff have the right knowledge and skills to tackle these inequalities.

The training and the code of practice are named after Oliver McGowan, an 18 year old from Bristol with a mild learning disability who died following a severe reaction to medication given to him against his and his family’s strong wishes.

Under the law, health and care providers registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) have a requirement to ensure staff have the appropriate training.

Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock, said: “I pay tribute to Paula McGowan OBE and Tom McGowan and their formidable campaign to improve the care of people with a learning disability and autistic people after the tragic death of their son, Oliver.”

“Through their work, they have shown extraordinary dedication, commitment and passion – Oliver’s memory and legacy lives through them.”

“This government recognises the appalling health inequalities faced by people with a learning disability and autistic people.”

“Everyone deserves to receive high-quality, empathetic and dignified care but this cannot be achieved if staff do not have the right training. The Oliver McGowan code of practice published today will be a boost for anyone with a learning disability or autistic people, their families and loved ones.”

Paula and Tom McGowan said: “The publication of the code of practice marks a deeply emotional and significant milestone for us and will ensure Oliver’s legacy will continue to make a difference by safeguarding

people with a learning disability and autistic individuals from the same preventable failings that he tragically endured.”

“The code establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the delivery of the training, promoting consistency and a deeper understanding across health and social care services.”

“We are profoundly grateful to cross-party politicians for their unwavering support and especially to Baroness Sheila Hollins, whose leadership has been pivotal in advancing this important work.”

Tom Cahill CBE, National Director, Learning Disability and Autism at NHS England, said: “We know that often the quality of care and support for people with a learning disability and autistic people has not been good enough and we are determined to make this better.”

“This code of practice – a result of Paula and Tom McGowan’s tireless dedication – will mean all NHS staff have the training and support they need to reduce inequalities and give people with a learning disability or autistic people the care they deserve.”

The training will be backed by funding as part of the Learning and Development Support Scheme for adult social care in autumn 2025.

Any adult social care providers who arrange for training for their staff between April 2025 and March 2026 will be reimbursed for the costs.

The Health and Care Act 2022 set out a legal requirement for CQC health and care providers to ensure staff receive appropriate training in caring for those with a learning disability or autistic people.

Oliver McGowan was repeatedly prescribed antipsychotic medications despite medical notes highlighting his severe adverse reactions to these drugs and against his and his family’s wishes.

Healthcare staff consistently failed to understand how autism presented alongside epilepsy and did not make the adjustments needed to accommodate for his needs.

Oliver died after developing a severe side effect to the medication which caused brain damage, and after life support was withdrawn by his parents, he died on 11 November 2016.

Oliver’s parents, Paula and Tom McGowan, have campaigned for better training for health and care staff to improve understanding of the needs of people with a learning disability or autistic people.

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

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-

Nitrile

Disposable Gloves

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

“Excellent” Devon Care Home Achieves ‘Butterfly Approach’ Dementia Model After 18-Month Transformation

A family-run West Devon care home has joined the elite few UK social care settings to have adopted of the acclaimed ‘Butterfly Approach’ – establishing an exemplary dementia care culture where people can thrive.

West View Care Home, in Bere Alston, recently completed the significant 18-month transformation to provide a more personcentred care model and elevate its “excellent” offering even further.

Following rigorous monthly support with the team at the 28bed home, along with those who live there, West View received accreditation in the prestigious Butterfly Approach from Meaningful Care Matters. The care and culture consultancy group specialise in focusing on the development of resilient, relationship-centred cultures of care shaped by the people living and working within them.

The Butterfly Approach has a meticulous focus on creating a culture where people are ‘free to be me’. It values emotional intelligence and the core belief that everyone has a unique story that has meaning and matters. It also encourages care providers to put the focus back on the people they care for and their emotions, by engaging in the reality of people’s lived experience in the ‘here and now’.

The transformation at West View included splitting the home into two separate living areas – Wren and Robin – where people with early-onset dementia or without dementia live together and people who experience more complex needs or later stage dementia live together. This fundamental change to a small household approach has enabled holistic care to flourish, where emotions-based care is balanced with clinical care best practice.

The home has also been decorated with vibrant colours and murals to bring warmth, with items of interest all around representing each individual and their life story – what Meaningful Care Matters calls the ‘stuff of life’, creating a family atmosphere.

Diane Kehoe, Manager at West View Care Home, said: “As a second-generation family-run business, we always aspire to create a stimulating, engaging and enjoyable environment – and the Butterfly Approach has provided us with the platform to offer that around the clock. I was already familiar with the approach and saw the potential West View had in achieving it. The transformation was not easy, and we had a few

challenges along the way, but the rewards upon completion have made it so worthwhile.

“We believed in the whole process from the outset and the staff embraced it – showing so much patience and kindness. They treat the residents like family, enjoying life together with lots of laughter and fun. When you step into the home now you can really sense the buzz of the place, and the level of care is both phenomenal and heartwarming.”

The overall findings from Meaningful Care Matters during a final audit last month identified the home as “excellent”, offering a highly engaged service that prioritises meaningful moments and where emotion-focused care is consistently seen, felt and heard in interactions with people. It also reported that individuality and self-expression are encouraged within the home, allowing people to freely be themselves.

Peter Bewert, Managing Director of Meaningful Care Matters, said: “West View has transformed into a truly wonderful home. The team have clearly embraced the desire to change and have achieved amazing results, being guided and supported by Diane. They have also lifted their CQC rating from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Good’ and are aiming over the course of the year to reach ‘Outstanding’. They have also been supported by the local service improvements team, who were so impressed at the transformation that they plan to use West View as a role model for other homes.”

Peter continued: “The journey has been incredible. From what we would call a ‘traditional’ care home, West View has come alive and now has a genuine feeling of family, togetherness, love and purpose for the people living there.”

The home aims to continue elevating its high standard of care, with ambitious plans to be acknowledged and approved by the National Dementia Care Accreditation Scheme. It also plans to achieve the ‘gold standard’ for end-of-life care by the Gold Standards Framework.

For more information on West View Care Home, please visit https://westviewcarehome.co.uk/.

For more information on Meaningful Care Matters and its cultural transformation models, visit https://meaningfulcarematters.com/.

Globe-Trotting Care Home Residents Return!

Globe-trotting residents have just returned to their not-for-profit care homes in Scotland, following several weeks of ‘virtual’ travel!

The weary but delighted travellers landed back at Sanctuary Care’s six homes taking part in the regional event, full of joy, cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for cultures around the world, where they indulged in authentic cuisine, music, dance and traditions from each of their chosen destinations.

During the whistlestop tour at Mull Hall Care Home in Invergordon, residents headed (virtually!) to Zimbabwe, where they played the steel drums and other instruments. Staff members treated them to a vibrant performance of traditional African dance and a feast of Zimbabwean delicacies was served, including Gango, which is a flavourful beef dish, Covo, a nutrient-rich leafy green, and Pap, a maize-based dish complemented by savoury sugar beans.

Home Manager Lorna McDonald said: “I am so grateful to our amazing team here at Mull Hall and their dedication to enriching our residents’ lives with new and exciting experiences like this.”

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.

Over in Peterculter, one of many highlights for residents at Birch House Care Home included being transported to a ‘virtual’ carnival in Rio de Janeiro, with a mouth-watering menu of traditional street food like Empanadas, which are traditional stuffed pastries with chorizo, and Pão de Queijo, a delicious cheese bread.

Home manager Pat Hutchison said: “We had an incredible time globe-trotting and created so many beautiful memories which we will treasure – one of those was our ‘fake’ snowball fight, with staff dressed as penguins!”

Meanwhile at Pitcairn Lodge Nursing Home in Westhill, the residents loved their time in Africa, where the residents enjoyed authentic cuisine like Puff Puff, a delicious Nigerian deep fried sweet dough.

The Sanctuary Care home’s manager Ruth Witkowski said: “The staff members of our team who are from Africa were absolutely delighted to treat the residents to such delicious traditional dishes. They wore beautiful dresses and entertained them with their stunning dances. It was an occasion filled with food, culture and joy!”

• 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

The company’s auditable Zero Waste to Landfill service diverts

pany collects from its customers every year from

and

CQC Appoints Chris Badger as Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care

Chris Badger has been appointed as the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC’s) new Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care.

Chris will be joining CQC from Hertfordshire County Council where he is currently Director of Adult Care Services.

As Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care, Chris will lead on CQC’s regulation of services which provide care to older people and adults with complex care needs. Chris will also have oversight of CQC’s role in assessing how local authorities meet their duties to provide adult social care and support for people in their area under Part 1 of theCare Act (2014).

His appointment is the fourth of 4 CQC Chief Inspector roles that will lead on regulation and improvement across mental health, hospitals, primary and community care, and adult social care – marking a realignment of the organisation around sector expertise.

Commenting on the appointment, Sir Julian Hartley, Chief Executive of CQC, said:“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Badger as our new Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care. He has shown unwavering commitment in his career to ensuring people who use adult social care services receive the highest level of care.

“The challenges faced by adult social care in England have been well documented, around funding and recruitment and retention of staff. Chris’s experi-

ence of working directly with providers, councils and people who use adult social care will be important in improving how we regulate the sector, and setting high standards for the care provided.

“I would also like to thank James Bullion as departing Interim Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care, who did not apply for the role, and whose professionalism and experience has proved invaluable over the last two years. On behalf of all at CQC I wish him well for the future.”

Chris Badger said: “I’m honoured to be joining CQC as Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care. I’ve seen first-hand the difference great adult social care can have on people’s lives, and the challenges that adult social care faces in this country. I recognise the important role strong regulation plays in helping to ensure people receive the high level of care they deserve. I know there is a shared commitment across care providers and Councils to help develop trusted and robust regulation of the sector.

“Ultimately, it is vitally important that people have access to timely and accurate information when making choices about who supports them. The care they receive should be highly personalised to their needs and aspirations.

“I look forward to meeting CQC colleagues and working together to improve both how we work and our role in wider reforms for adult social care.”

Automeds Pharmacy: Care Homes Trusted Partner in Care and Convenience

Say Goodbye to long lines, chasing down prescriptions or scrambling to find you medications in store!

At Automeds Pharmacy, we’re reshaping the way healthcare is delivered. Serving the South of England with over a decade of expertise, we’re proud to be a distance-selling pharmacy that is truly dedicated to the evolving needs of our patients alongside specialising in care home dispensing.

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.

We’re not just a pharmacy—we’re a partner in your healthcare journey, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Enquire today for your bespoke package! 01305 230091 or wecare@automeds.co.uk or visit www.automeds.co.uk

Neglecting Hearing Loss is Costing Lives: New White Paper Demands Change

Care England in collaboration with Engage and Nightingale Hammerson, has launched a powerful new white paper calling for urgent and coordinated action to improve support for care home residents living with hearing loss.

The White Paper takes recommendations from research carried out by University of Manchester researchers based at the Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD). They found that unaddressed hearing loss is highly prevalent in care homes, impacting on residents’ quality of life. The research identified several barriers relating to caregivers’ knowledge of hearing loss and opportunities for care homes to work with audiologists. Unclear responsibilities relating to hearing care and residents’ difficulties adapting to, or being comfortable wearing, hearing aids were also identified.

Titled “Hearing Loss in Care Homes – A Call to Action”, the paper brings together nearly a decade of practical experience from Engage’s work across over 35 care homes, alongside extensive research and insights from

Nightingale Hammerson, where the Engage project has been running for over three years.

With at least 80% of residents in older people’s care homes living with hearing loss, the paper highlights the widespread impact of unaddressed hearing needs – from increased risks of dementia and falls, to social isolation, depression, and avoidable distress.

Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England, said: “Hearing loss has long been overlooked in care settings, despite its profound impact on wellbeing, safety, and social connection. This white paper, developed jointly with Engage and Nightingale Hammerson, is a timely and vital resource for the sector. It provides practical, evidence-based recommendations that care providers can implement to deliver more compassionate, inclusive and effective care.”

The paper sets out a comprehensive set of evidence-informed recommendations to create the change needed to enhance care provision which includes; environmental audits to reduce noise and improve lighting, essential protocols for hearing aid support and maintenance, training for staff, access to personal amplifiers, improved audiology services access and earwax removal, supporting to explore and use assistive hearing technologies for users and their families, Hearing Loss Champions, and person-centred communication, particularly for people living with dementia.

Padraic Garrett, Head of Engage and Andrew Goodwin, Service Manager for Engage, said: “When residents with hearing loss are not adequately supported, it leads to increased anxiety, depression, and social isolation, with higher risks to physical health issues including falls. From our many years of successfully collaborating with homes, our motivation for this Paper is to share what we have found works to address the suffering of residents with hearing loss.”

Dr Hannah Cross, Research Associate, Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD) at The University of Manchester, said: “Hearing care that is personalised, provided consistently and dementia appropriate can make huge changes to residents’ quality of life, wellbeing, independence and functioning.

Meeting the hearing needs of care home residents with dementia is vital in maintaining their communication abilities, independence, and quality-of-life. My PhD work outlines just how complex providing hearing care can be and how much needs to change. This White Paper will help to guide care homes in supporting their residents, and boost the priority of hearing loss within Social Care policy and regulation.”

Nuno Santos Lopes, Director of Research and Innovation at Nightingale Hammerson, added: “Hearing loss is common to the vast majority of older people with care needs and the levels of knowledge of the care givers remains very low. From creating the right environment to get staff, managers and relatives knowledgeable about how to engage with someone with hearing loss, there is a lot of work to do and this document works as an easy to access guidance to help improving the hearing care standards.”

Crystal Rolfe, Director of Strategy at RNID, said: “This White Paper is a powerful call-to-action to address the huge need within older people’s care homes when it comes to hearing health. Hearing loss shouldn’t stop older people from living well, and by improving the quality of care, not only will we help combat the increased risks of depression and cognitive decline, but there’ll be a huge beneficial impact on overall wellbeing. Older people will be less isolated and be able to communicate better – whether it’s with family, staffmembers within the residential home setting, or friends.”

The paper not only outlines an ethical and clinical imperative but also makes a compelling financial case: improved hearing care can reduce falls, mitigate cognitive decline, and enhance resident and staff wellbeing – ultimately supporting occupancy, reputation, and staff retention.

Former Emergency Relief Volunteer Margaret, 102, Enjoys Surprise Birthday Visit

A former volunteer for an all-female emergency relief charity has celebrated her 102nd birthday at a New Forest care home.

Iris ‘Margaret’ Honeyman, a resident at Colten Care’s Court Lodge in Lymington, served in the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry in the Second World War while working at the Foreign Office in London.

Like fellow Yeomanry members, she provided help on a range of warrelated tasks including nursing and intelligence services.

One focus for Margaret was aiding Foreign Office work in support of the French Resistance, something she has described as “very challenging but enjoyable”.

In recognition of her birthday, career achievements and voluntary service, Court Lodge staff invited present day Yeomanry members to come along to wish Margaret well.

Companionship Team Leader Julia Puia said: “Our surprise guests arrived in full uniform and joined Margaret’s friends as everyone settled down for a ‘Happy Birthday’ afternoon tea.

“Chatting to Margaret, they were amazed to hear her stories about the Second World War.”

“Margaret couldn’t quite believe that they had made time in their busy schedules to come and see her. “

“However, we assured her that the pleasure was all theirs, as they felt so privileged to hear about the history of the Yeomanry from someone who had been a member during such a significant time.”

The Yeomanry was founded in 1907 and while the original name is still widely used, it became formally known as the Princess Royal’s Volunteer Corps in 1999.

Volunteers are trained to support both military and civilian authorities. In recent years they have helped in the relief efforts after emergency situations such as terrorist attacks and the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.

Also as part of her birthday celebrations, cat-lover Margaret enjoyed a Colten Care minibus trip to make some new furry friends at the Hotel Cat in Sway.

Llandudno Care Home Residents Celebrate Pride Month

Residents and staff members at RMBI Care Co. Home Queen Elizabeth Court, in Llandudno, had a colourful week to mark Pride Month in June. The fun-filled celebrations kicked off in magnificent style with staff decorating the main areas around the Home in a range of colours to reflect the Pride rainbow theme.

Residents and staff shared their stories and experiences, and participated in a learning session about the history of LGBTQIA+ rights, changes in society through time and today’s Pride. Everyone was fascinated to learn about Gareth Thomas, a Welsh former professional rugby player who came out as gay in 2009 and has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and HIV awareness.

Staff also wore bright colours to show solidarity with the Pride community.

Taking part in the discussion, resident Maureen said: “As long as people are happy and treat each other with respect, that’s what matters most. We all need to live!”

Richard, one of the Activities Coordinators at Queen Elizabeth Court commented: “Celebrating Pride Month is important to make people aware. I dislike the idea of prejudice towards anyone, so it’s nice for us to be able to come together and create a safe space where people share our values and can live authentically.”

Why You Can’t Miss The Care & Occupational Therapy Show

The South West’s Leading Care & Occupational Therapy Event – Are You In?

Here’s 5 Reasons You Need to Be at The Care & Occupational Therapy Show!

On 16th July at Westpoint, Exeter, The Care & Occupational Therapy Show is bringing together the best in the Care and Occupational Therapy industries for a game-changing event. We will be there, here’s why you need to be there too: �� Unmissable keynote sessions from industry leaders like The Homecare Associations, Care Rights UK,

and many more.

�� Networking opportunities with likeminded professionals �� CPD-accredited seminars and workshops to level up your skills.

�� Meet expert exhibitors showcasing innovative solutions.

�� It’s 100% FREE!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, network and discover a The Care & Occupational Therapy Show. Claim your free ticket today using our special link!

Lack of Workplace Role Models Keeps People With Learning Disabilities Out of Work

A lack of visible role models in the workplace – particularly in customer-facing roles – is a major barrier to seeking employment for adults with learning disabilities such as Down’s Syndrome, Autism and Aspergers, new research has revealed.

In the UK, there are 1.5 million people with learning disabilities, but only 5% are currently employed.

Hilton’s survey of more than 500 people with learning disabilities and their carers* found that 79% believe businesses should do more to promote job opportunities and the benefits of inclusive hiring.

Doing so could have a significant impact on employment levels among those with learning disabilities, as three quarters (74%) would feel more confident applying for roles if they saw more people with similar disabilities in the workforce.

Despite this, just 16% of respondents who are in the workforce said they have a role model with a similar condition to connect with and learn from.

The study, released to mark Learning Disability Week (16th – 22nd June), highlights the importance of hiring, supporting and celebrating employees with learning disabilities, particularly in customer facing service roles across sectors such as hospitality and retail.

The findings underline the powerful ripple effect role models can have – not only on jobseekers, but their carers too. Yet such moments of visibility remain rare: only a quarter (25%) of carers say they have ever been served by someone with a learning disability. When they have, the impact is clear – 70% said it motivated them to help their dependent find fulfilling work, and three quarters (75%) said it made them realise the person they care for could be a role model to others.

This view is shared by the wider public. Hilton also undertook polling among more than 2,000 consumers, which found widespread support for greater inclusion of people with a learning disability in customer facing

roles.

85% said that having more people with learning disabilities in these positions would inspire others to apply, while nine in 10 (93%) said it was important to see staff from all backgrounds in hospitality roles. Three quarters (75%) said there weren’t enough people with learning disabilities in such jobs.

Stephen Cassidy, senior vice president, UK & Ireland, Hilton, said: “Representation matters – seeing people like yourself succeed at work builds confidence and opens doors to career opportunity. Our team members with learning disabilities contribute across a wide range of roles, from front-of-house positions like reception and concierge to behind-the-scenes work in kitchens, housekeeping, and revenue management. They bring unique strengths and a strong commitment that enrich our culture and elevate the guest experience. By providing the right support and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, we empower individuals to reach their full potential and demonstrate that inclusion is a powerful driver of success in hospitality.”

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Hilton’s partnership with Aurora Foxes, a hospitality college and training hotel in Minehead that supports young people with learning disabilities. Over the past decade, the collaboration has provided 89 work placements, with 15 former students currently employed in roles with Hilton. A long-standing partnership with the Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA) has also enabled 52 work placements, with almost 40 team members currently working at Hilton through the DSA’s WorkFit programme.

To celebrate the valuable contributions of people with learning disabilities in the workforce, Hilton opened a pop-up tearoom at The Waldorf Hilton, London, on 16 June. The event featured a special performance from blind, autistic musical savant Derek Paravicini.

Dedicated “Heroines” Ellen And Cindy Honoured For 90 Years Of Care

Two care home “heroines” have been honoured for nearly 90 years of dedicated service between them.

Ellen Griffith and Cindy Clutton were presented with special awards and bouquets of flowers by Wrexham MS Lesley Griffiths at the town’s Hillbury care home during a party to celebrate a double anniversary.

Hillbury is marking its 60th anniversary this year while owners Pendine Park also have a big birthday this year – their 40th anniversary.

The care home was originally founded in 1965 by the Sisters of Nazareth and was run by the nuns for 37 years until it was taken over Pendine in 2003.

Pendine already owned the Gwern Alyn care home next door and both homes are now managed by Cindy.

She goes back a long way with laundry manager Ellen who started at Hillbury in 1979 and remembers Cindy arriving there three years later as a pig-tailed “Saturday girl”.

Lesley Griffiths said: “It’s a great pleasure to be here today on such a special day, to say thank you to two very special people.

“Between them, Ellen and Cindy have clocked up nearly 90 years’ of looking after people which I think deserves a big round of applause.

“Pendine took over Hillbury quite a few years ago but the care here pre-dates Pendine and when I was a child I remember when the nuns were here providing care for people in Wrexham and Pendine have carried on that care to an extremely high level.

“I have visited many care homes across Wales in different guises and I can honestly say that I have never been anywhere that comes close to Pendine.

“That’s down to the magic instilled by the owners Mario and Gill Kreft and the wonderful staff here and today we are celebrating the contribution of two very special people in Cindy and Ellen.” Ellen, now in her 47th year at Hillbury, recalled: “I left school at 16 and came here in 1979 for an interview on a Friday and started work on the following Monday.

“I came here in the first place to work as a carer on a YTS scheme – it was only for six months but they extended it for another six months.

“After that ended I went to work at another home but I got a call saying there was a permanent job for me here and I’ve been here ever since.

“The time has just flown by. I don’t know where the years have gone. I just love every minute of it.

“If you’re happy in your work you don’t need to look elsewhere.”

According to Cindy, she also still loves her job and looks forward to coming into work every day.

She said: “I started in Hillbury in 1982 – my mum worked here I was looking for something during school holiday and weekends. She got me a job and I haven’t looked back.”

“Ellen took me under here wing and I helped her, working in the kitchen upstairs and folding clothes”

“When I left school at 16 I joined a YTS scheme on placement at another care home and when I was 18 I joined the old Clwyd County Council as care practitioner and then a relief manager.

“Then in 2000 I started with Pendine at Gwern Alyn, next door to Hillbury. Six months later the manager went on to pastures new and Mario very kindly made me as a relief manager and I’ve since become the manager of both homes”

Cindy added: “There are challenges every day but it’s incredibly rewarding – I really enjoy what I do.”

“Pendine started in 1985 and that family orientation is still there. The staff in Hillbury and Gwern Alyn is a family – I see more of them than I do my own family.”

“The relationship with the residents is something very special and you get good relationships with relatives, building up a rapport with them as well.”

Mario and Gill Kreft opened Gwern Alyn because they were struggling to find a suitable care home for their own grandparents.

Four decades later the couple run nine care homes in Wrexham and Caernarfon where they have a total of 440 beds and employ more than 860 people.

Mario said: “Hillbury has been a very special place for 60 years, providing care in the community since 1965 and we are continuing to do that today in large measure.

“The Sisters of Nazareth left a very good template for us and Cindy and Ellen epitomise what Pendine is all about.”

“You couldn’t pick two better people – they have the milk of human kindness flowing through their veins.”

“Everybody outside looks at social care and thinks it’s easy but it’s not easy at all – you need the innate qualities of kindness, compassion, patience and dedication.”

“What you see here is people who have that in spades and the residents get the best out of that. Ellen and Cindy are real-life heroines.”

Forbes Professional’s Complete Care for Laundry Equipment

In care homes, where hygiene, safety, and reliability are paramount, it’s essential that laundry operations run seamlessly. Forbes Professional’s Complete Care solution is tailored to meet the specific demands of this environment, offering fully supported and cost-effective laundry systems.

With Complete Care, care homes benefit from access to premium commercial laundry appliances without upfront capital expenditure. The all-inclusive rental plan covers installation, routine servicing, maintenance, and repairs; enabling staff to focus on resident care rather than laundry appliance logistics. Unexpected breakdowns can severely disrupt operations, which is why Forbes provides nationwide, award-winning support with a same or next-day engineer response to minimise downtime.

Preventative servicing is central to Forbes’ approach. Their offering includes routine maintenance, full certification, annual gas safety checks, and professional dryer duct cleaning - ensuring systems meet all legal and regulatory standards. Whether supporting existing machines or those rented through Forbes, this

proactive strategy improves operational efficiency and reduces risk.

Under Regulation 35 of the Gas Safety Regulations 1998, annual gas inspections are mandatory. Forbes’ Gas Safe-registered engineers conduct these checks to ensure safe, legally compliant environments. Additionally, regular duct cleaning - often overlooked - is vital not only for performance but also for fire prevention. Forbes’ nationwide service mitigates these risks while optimising dryer efficiency.

Whether you need new rental equipment, service and maintenance for existing appliances, or a full purchase, Forbes offers flexible procurement routes to suit different operational models and budgets. Their expert consultants work closely with care providers to design tailored solutions for each setting.

With decades of experience in the care sector, Forbes Professional is a trusted partner to care homes across the UK; delivering dependable, fully supported laundry solutions that prioritise safety, compliance, and peace of mind.

0345 070 2335

NHS CHC Postcode Lottery Leaves Patients at Risk, New Data Shows

New data gathered from Winston Solicitors via a Freedom of Information request to NHS England reveals the stark differences in NHS funding for Continuing Healthcare (CHC) across England’s 42 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs).

Despite a single national eligibility framework, the figures show huge variation in how CHC is funded from region to region.

Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a package of care provided and fully funded by the NHS for adults with significant ongoing health needs.

It can apply in a care home, hospice care, or the individual’s own home, ensuring that individuals with complex conditions are not left to fund their care out-of-pocket. Unlike social care, CHC is not means-tested but eligibility criteria are strict, and assessments can be complex

For example, while NHS North East & North Cumbria ICB spent more than £382 million on CHC in 2023/24, NHS Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes ICB spent just £86.4 million. Even after accounting for population differences, North East & North Cumbria still allocated more per capita than the Bedfordshire-based ICB. ICBS WITH THE HIGHEST CHC EXPENDITURES (£M)

ICBS WITH THE LOWEST CHC EXPENDITURES (£M)

The FOI also revealed inconsistent use of the Fast Track pathway, the statutory route for patients who are approaching the end of life and require care to be arranged within 48 hours. Several ICBs, including Beds, Luton & Milton Keynes and Birmingham & Solihull, reported spending £0 on Fast Track CHC in 2023/24.

This is despite Age UK’s Continuing to Care report which highlighted that referrals for fast track increased nationally as the standard CHC became more difficult to access.

While ICBs were only formed in July 2022 under the conservative government, half-year expenditures on CHC were available and compared to the 2023/2024 data. While some categories like Adult PHBs saw localised growth, overall every ICB reduced their CHC expenditures.

Overall CHC spending appears to have decreased by 42% in 2023/24 compared to a full-year estimate for 2022/23.

James Urquhart-Burton, at Winston Solicitors, commented: “The data reveals striking regional disparities in CHC spending, with some ICBs allocating more than four times as much per year as others. These differences raise serious questions about equity and access to care.

It’s more important than ever for individuals and families to have expert support when navigating this system, especially in areas where funding appears constrained.”

Boogie Wonderland - Care Home Launches Dementia Disco

Staff and residents at Hazel Lodge care home in Battle have dusted off their dancing shoes for the launch of their new Dementia Disco initiative.

Knowing how much their residents love to dance, the activities team at Hazel Lodge care home came up with the genius idea of a dementia-friendly disco. The team invited along members of the local community and friends of the home to the first official dementia-friendly disco which went down an absolute storm.

Building on their success, the home has decided to make it a regular thing and will now be hosting bi-monthly Dementia Discos throughout the coming year. If you and your loved ones or community group would like to attend, please contact the home for more information, call 01323 921550.

General Manager, Rikki-Gene Bury, commented: “The Dementia Disco is a fantastic way to connect with others in a relaxed and supportive environment. It’s wonderful to see the power of music bring joy and reminiscence for those living with dementia, their families and caregivers. Everyone iswelcome - we’re really looking forward to making more friends in our local community. If anyone is unable to make it on the day but would like to pop in for a chat and a cup of tea, our doors are always open.”

A family member added: “We enjoyed the Dementia Disco so much and we are really looking forward to the next one! Everyone had an amazing time and it was a wonderful and rare opportunity to turn back the clock and have some fun with our loved ones!”

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

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 or visit www.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 facing page.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Empowering Care Staff and Residents Through Aligned Training

By Elena Martin, Director of Operations and Commissioning, Langdale Care

Homes Group (www.langdalecarehomes.co.uk)

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-

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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

Raising Standards in End of Life Care

As our population ages, the need for compassionate, high-quality end of life care is more pressing than ever. The Gold Standards Framework (GSF)

Charity is helping to meet this challenge by supporting health and social care teams to deliver care that truly makes a difference.

Through its nationally recognised Service Improvement Programme, GSF equips staff with the skills, confidence, and structure to provide proactive, person-centred end of life care. The results speak for themselves: 97% of organisations report better experiences for residents and families.

GSF Accreditation is more than recognition - it’s a mark of quality that is CQC-recognised, sectorendorsed, and impactful across entire organisations.

Whether you're in a care home, GP practice, hospital, or community service, GSF helps embed a culture of dignity, compassion, and coordinated care. Hundreds of organisations have already joined the GSF community, raising the standard of care for those nearing the end of life.

Find out how your team can get involved at: www.goldstandardsframework.org.uk

Future-proof your care. Empower your workforce. Everyone deserves Gold Standard end of life care.

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

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

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 EDUCATION AND TRAINING

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"

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

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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.

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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.

Why It Has Never Been More Important For Nursing And Care Homes To Background Screen Gig Workers

Conducting full employment screening and vetting is recognised as a fundamental element of the hiring process, particularly when working with vulnerable groups in the nursing and care market. However, these processes may be occasionally overlooked, or elements may be missed by some employers looking to quickly recruit and onboard new staff to fill critical gaps in their workforces. However, even in what remains a highly skills-short environment, failing to carry out thorough checks on people employed in any capacity could open the door to a range of risks that can have a critical impact on vulnerable populations. Perhaps more concerning is the fact that this trend is growing as more care facilities are turning to the gig workforce — a notoriously complex segment to vet and screen.

THE GROWTH OF GIG

The gig workforce has grown in parallel with seismic shifts in the nature of employment in the UK. Fewer people are seeking ‘a job for life’ than ever before, and the number of those operating on a gig basis has more than doubled in size in recent years. In fact, data suggests that an estimated 7.25 million people (around 22% of the workforce) participated in some form of gig work in the UK in 2024, and there are 1.7 million professionals who work solely in this way.

Gig models are also highly popular in the care industry, and there is evidence that the workforce in this sector may actually be the largest one across the entire market. In addition, recruitment services for the gig workforce are increasingly being delivered via digital platforms, but according to a recent UK Government report, only 41% of gig platforms require enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and fewer still verify qualifications or conduct ongoing vetting.

While there’s no doubt that the gig model provides greater flexibility to both individuals and employers, and may help to tackle staff shortages seen in the child and social care markets, it has also opened the door to increased risks, particularly when it comes to fraud, misconduct, and exploitation if workers are not thoroughly vetted.

RISING THREATS

The rising risks in not carefully screening gig workers are only intensifying. A study from 2023 by CIFAS, the UK’s fraud prevention service, revealed a 22% rise in ‘insider threats’ and employee fraud compared to the previous year. Perhaps most alarmingly, one in five of those frauds were committed within the first three months of employment.

By Rolf Bezemer, Executive VP and General Manager International at First Advantage

In the care sector especially, mitigating risk such as fraud could and should be tackled through a thorough and careful inspection of candidate backgrounds and working history. However, employers may be under significant pressure to rapidly fill workforce gaps to meet rising demands for care. At the same time, they must maintain high standards for residents and their families, which inadvertently leads to some processes being overlooked.

This would be a challenge in any working environment, but with roles in care and nursing that support vulnerable populations, this oversight could have drastic consequences. Providers that don’t fully vet or screen staff risk the wellbeing of their populations, the safety of their facilities, and may face potential for consequences (reputational damage, heightened legal liabilities, financial losses, and lost public trust).

On top of the potential damage caused by these risks, failure to prevent fraud is also likely to become a corporate offence once the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 is fully enacted. And, on March 30 2025, the Home Office announced a further crackdown on illegal working in the gig economy by those without the necessary right to work status. These emerging rulings place a greater onus on the employer, meaning those that fail to vet staff — inadvertently or not — who then go on to commit fraud, could be criminally liable for their inaction and face major fines or even potential prison sentences.

THOROUGH VETTING IS KEY

The strength and quality of care provided by any home is also dependent on its employees – no matter how short or temporary their contract or assignment. Conducting the fundamental elements of screening and completing thorough background checks on gig workers, not only when an individual starts a position, but also at any point they are engaged by the facility, is critical.

The digitalisation of modern society, alongside the growth of gig working models, makes it far easier for ‘bad actors’ to slip through the net. However, tech-backed screening processes and the use of digital identities to verify information also make it easier for companies to make well-informed, confident hiring decisions. Crucially, leveraging a modern, tech-first screening provider also supports the employers with their screening needs and helps them manage their compliance requirements.

It’s undeniable that the UK is in the midst of a major staffing crisis in this sector, with speed of hiring a top concern. It’s crucial to acknowledge, however, that screening and vetting gig staff is critical, and while it’s important to hire workers quickly, it’s even more critical to hire them safely and compliantly. That means that conducting adequate DBS checks, digital identity, right to work, credit and financial checks, as well as verifying references and carrying out ongoing monitoring on all gig workers may be important considerations for hiring organisations. It can be a significant undertaking, but partnering with the right screening vendor can help the hiring organisations with their compliance requirements

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 (www.ts-p.co.uk)

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.

A Kinder Exit: Why More Care Business Owners Are Choosing Employee Ownership Trusts

Jennifer Moore, Director at Leonard Curtis Legal (www.leonardcurtis.co.uk)

Succession is one of the most pressing and personal decisions a care business owner will make. For many founders, particularly those who have built a service rooted in compassion, community and quality of care, handing over the reins is far more than a financial transaction. It’s also about legacy.

Increasingly, owners in the care sector are choosing to exit through Employee Ownership Trust (EOT); a structure that avoids the disruption that can often accompany third party sales, while simultaneously safeguarding their values, rewarding their team and securing long-term continuity.

At Leonard Curtis Legal, we’ve supported a growing number of businesses through the transition to employee ownership. In our experience, it’s not just a legal process, it’s a cultural shift that is transforming how businesses plan for the future.

WHAT IS AN EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP TRUST?

An EOT is a government-backed ownership model that allows a business owner to sell a controlling interest (more than 50%) of their company to a trust set up for the benefit of all employees. If certain conditions are met, the sale is then exempt from Capital Gains Tax

discusses the growing number of care home businesses choosing Employee Ownership Trusts and explores the benefits for founders within the care industry.

(CGT), which is an obvious benefit for those planning retirement or succession.

While the trust doesn’t run the business, it does own it on behalf of the workforce. Decisions continue to be made by a management team, but under a new structure where the staff are the ultimate beneficiaries. In an industry where staff retention, engagement and continuity of care are vital, EOTs offer a compelling alternative to trade sales or private equity investment.

WHY

THE MODEL FITS THE CARE SECTOR

The values behind employee ownership align closely with the realities of social care. Businesses succeed here because of their people –the carers who turn up day after day to deliver life-changing support. Yet many of these same staff face limited recognition or reward. EOTs done well can help to rebalance that.

Businesses adopting the EOT model often benefit from improved staff retention and morale, a stronger sense of shared purpose and an increased perception of trust and credibility both internally and externally.

EOT-owned companies can also pay staff annual tax-free bonuses of up to £3,600, providing a meaningful benefit in a sector struggling to compete on wages alone.

LEGAL AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

It’s important to remember that this is a legal transaction and one that must be carefully structured. To qualify for CGT relief, several conditions must be met. The EOT must acquire more than 50% of shares and voting rights, and the company must be a trading business and not an investment vehicle. It must also benefit all employees on equal terms and the former owners must not retain control.

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

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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

Every proposal is individual and deserves to be treated that way, so we hope you will allow us to be of assistance to you and call us to chat through your plans and requirements, I am sure we will be able to tailor a facility to your requirements. Call us on 01242 227172 or e-mail us at enquiries@globalbusinessfinance.net

Once established, the trust is governed by a board of trustees usually including independent members and employee representatives. It’s vital that the governance structure reflects both the legal requirements and operational needs of a care provider.

However, in the care industry it’s not only about meeting technical criteria, we must also think about designing governance models that work for regulated services. That means considering CQC implications, continuity of leadership and long-term financial planning.

FUNDING THE TRANSITION

A common concern is whether a care business can afford to buy itself. In most cases, the purchase is funded through future profits of the company with the outgoing owner receiving deferred payments over time. Some providers also access third-party lending to accelerate the process.

Robust cash flow forecasting is key. Margins in the sector are often tight, so careful modelling is essential to ensure the business remains stable while making repayments. We work alongside accountants and lenders to manage this risk.

A FUTURE-PROOF MODEL FOR VALUES-LED CARE

What sets EOTs apart is the ability to exit and secure a fair financial return while keeping the culture and purpose of the business intact. In a sector increasingly shaped by scale and commercial pressure, that’s a powerful proposition.

For owners who have built care services with love and long hours and who want to leave something meaningful behind, employee ownership is more than a tax-efficient exit. It’s a legacy model.

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