The Carer Digital - Issue #271

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Issue 271

Government Listens to Farmers and Publicans – But Social Care Is Still Being Ignored…

PROVIDERS WARN Adult social care leaders have issued a stark warning to government after ministers moved swiftly to protect farmers and publicans – while social care, they say, continues to be left out in the cold.

The Honorary President of the Independent Care Group (ICG), Mike Padgham, has questioned why residential and nursing care providers remain without

meaningful support, despite facing what he described as “unprecedented strain” across the sector.

Welcoming recent government U-turns that eased pressure on agriculture and signalled potential business rates relief for pubs, Mr Padgham said the decisions prove that ministers can act decisively when they choose to listen.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 3)

PAGE 2 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

LISTENING TO EVERYONE – EXCEPT SOCIAL CARE

by 2028/29. To meet stated ambitions around quality, access and workforce stability, the figure rises sharply to £8.7 billion. Against that backdrop, the government’s offer looks less like investment and more like damage limitation. The consequences of this funding gap are already visible. A Care Provider Alliance survey found that three quarters of providers expect to increase fees for self-funders, further entrenching inequality in the system. More alarmingly, one in four providers say they face the risk of service closures, driven by the absence of guaranteed fee uplifts from local authorities whose own finances remain precarious.

Sector leaders have been blunt. Care England has warned that without immediate and credible investment, ambitions for a stable workforce—and the much-trailed Fair Pay Agreement—risk being undermined before they even begin. Providers cannot plan, recruit or retain staff on promises that fail to match reality.

There is little argument with the central sentiment of All of this matters even more when set against the government’s wider health agenthis week’s story: once again, government appears willEditor da. ing to listen to almost everyone except social care.

We are told that the NHS 10-Year Health Plan, Fit for the Future, is now moving from Recent months have shown that sustained pressure vision to implementation. Its three “big shifts”—care moving from hospitals into comworks. Farmers, publicans, motorists and business munities, analogue systems becoming digital, and a greater focus on prevention—are groups have all forced notable U-turns or concessions as familiar, sensible and widely supported. But they all depend on a functioning, resilient ministers respond to political heat and public opinion. Policies once presented as social care sector. immovable have quietly been adjusted, delayed or diluted. Against that backdrop,

By March 2026, ambitious targets are in place: reduced elective waiting times, social care’s continued exclusion feels less like an oversight and more like a pattern. improved A&E performance, faster cancer treatment and new Integrated Health We have a “sister title for the hospitality and licensed on-trade and the pressure Organisations holding population-wide budgets. New GP contract models are designed from that sector on the government has been relentless, and led to many publicans to integrate neighbourhood care, and the NHS App is set to become the digital “front outright banning Labour MP’s from their premises. door” for services. Workforce reform, new employment standards and performanceThe pressure on the government from the adult social care sector has too been linked pay for senior managers are all on the horizon. relentless. Delighted to say we here at THE CARER have been part of that pressure Yet none of this can succeed if social care remains the weak link. which while gathering attention has not yet (unfortunately) reached the “dizzy heights” You cannot move care out of hospitals if there is nowhere safe for people to be dispressure from pubs and farmers has. charged to. You cannot prioritise prevention if community support is overstretched or The government’s announcement of an additional £4.6 billion for adult social care by unavailable. You cannot stabilise the NHS workforce while the social care workforce 2028–29 is, of course, welcome. After years of warnings about underfunding, any continues to haemorrhage staff to better-paid roles elsewhere. Integration cannot be recognition that more money is required matters. But providers are united in their achieved by policy alone; it requires parity of esteem, funding and urgency. assessment: this funding will not change outcomes on the ground.

If government can listen to farmers and publicans when the pressure becomes loud Put simply, it is not enough. enough, it can—and must—listen to care providers now. Without meaningful investCare providers are not being ungrateful; they are being realistic. Independent anament, social care will continue to prop up the system quietly until it no longer can. And lysts have already demonstrated how quickly this headline figure is absorbed by unavoidable cost pressures. The Nuffield Trust estimates that increases in the National when that happens, no amount of NHS reform will be able to compensate.

The message from providers is consistent, credible and impossible to ignore: this Living Wage and Employer National Insurance Contributions alone will add £2.8 billion in workforce costs in 2025/26. That single year effectively wipes out much of the bene- funding is welcome, but it is not enough. fit of existing funding uplifts before a single extra hour of care is delivered.

I would encourage our readers to sign up for our bi-weekly digital newsletter at The Health Foundation has been equally clear. Merely maintaining current service www.thecareruk.com and follow us on social media for all the latest news. levels—no expansion, no reform, no improvement—will require an additional £3.4 billion I can always be contacted at editor@thecareruk.com

Peter Adams

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THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 3

Government Listens to Farmers and Publicans – But Social Care Is Still Being Ignored…

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER) “Publicans, like farmers, are at the heart of our communities,” he said. “Their success demonstrates something social care has long argued – political will makes change possible.”

But for care providers, the question now is unavoidable: “After years of lobbying, engagement, consultation and constructive working with government, what do we have to do to be heard?”

MOUNTING PRESSURE Adult social care providers – including residential care homes, nursing homes and domiciliary services – are, he says, being squeezed from every direction.

Rising energy and food costs, chronic workforce shortages, tighter regulation, and repeated funding settlements that fail to meet the true cost of care have combined to create what sector leaders describe as an unsustainable operating environment.

The workforce crisis remains particularly acute. Social care employs around 1.6 million people in England, yet vacancy levels remain historically high, with well over 150,000 posts unfilled at any one time.

Providers report that restrictions on overseas recruitment have intensified pressures on services already struggling to staff rotas safely.

At the same time, increases in employers’ National Insurance contributions have hit labourintensive care services hardest – especially those relying on part-time and shift-based staff.

“Care is delivered by people,” Mr Padgham said. “When employment costs rise sharply, there is no easy way to absorb them.”

Local authorities, he added, are simply not funded to pay the true cost of care – leaving providers trapped between statutory quality expectations and fee rates that fail to cover basic operational costs.

CLOSURES INEVITABLE Without urgent intervention, Mr Padgham warned that closures are no longer a future risk but a present reality.

Care homes will shut their doors. Home care providers will hand back contracts or cease trading altogether. Many of those lost will be small, family-run services that have supported their communities for generations.

“Once they are gone, they will not be easily replaced,” he said.

He dismissed calls for further long-term strategies or distant reform programmes, arguing that the sector has heard enough promises.

“Social care does not need another vision document. We need action now. Reform must happen this year – not at some undefined point in the future.”

THE NHS CANNOT COPE ALONE

Mr Padgham stressed that care providers are not asking for special treatment – only “fairness, realism and recognition of the essential role we play alongside the NHS.” Delayed hospital discharges, overcrowded A&E departments and ambulance backlogs are already closely linked to the fragility of community care services.

“A functioning NHS depends on a functioning social care system,” he said. “We want to support the NHS – but we cannot do so if the foundations of social care are allowed to crumble.”

INVITATION TO MINISTERS After years of what he described as patience, collaboration and constructive engagement, Mr Padgham issued a direct challenge to senior ministers.

He invited the Prime Minister, the Chancellor and the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to visit frontline services and see the reality for themselves.

“Come and see for yourselves,” he urged.

“Visit care homes. Spend time with home care workers. Talk to providers who are fighting every day to keep services open for the people who depend on them.

“Be as bold for social care as you have been for farmers and publicans.”

A COST THE COUNTRY CANNOT IGNORE Mr Padgham concluded with a sobering warning: the cost of inaction will not be borne by providers alone.

Families will lose trusted local services. Communities will be hollowed out. And the NHS will face pressures it cannot solve on its own.

“Social care is not a side issue,” he said. “It is essential national infrastructure. Ignore it much longer, and everyone will pay the price.”

ADDITIONAL FUNDING Last month the government published its adult social care priorities for local authorities, outlining a roadmap towards establishing a national care service alongside a commitment to provide approximately £4.6 billion in additional funding by 2028-29.

Stephen Kinnock MP, Minister of State for Care, unveiled the framework which centres on three core objectives designed to transform care delivery across England over the coming years.

THREE PRIORITY OUTCOMES FOR ADULT SOCIAL CARE The Department of Health and Social Care has established three priority outcomes that will guide local authority planning and service delivery from the 2026-27 financial year: 1. People who draw on care and support, and their carers, experience high-quality adult social care provided by a skilled workforce.

2. People who draw on care and support are supported to promote their independence, where possible, and have choice and control over their support.

3. People who draw on care and support experience joined-up health and social care services at a neighbourhood level..

PAGE 4 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Mental Health and the Equality Act 2010

By Ethan Diver, Solicitor at Taylor Walton Solicitors (www.taylorwalton.co.uk)

According to the Health and Safety Executive, there were an estimated 875,000 workers suffering from work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2022/2023. This equated to around 17.1 million working days being lost for this reason.

Although depression and anxiety are considered the most common, employers may encounter a range of mental health conditions, such as PTSD, eating disorders and personality disorders.

MENTAL HEALTH AND THE LAW There is no employment legislation which addresses mental health specifically. However, some employees may be classed as “disabled” under the Equality Act 2010. This applies where an employee has a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

The focus of this statutory definition is on the impact that the condition has on the individual. As such, not all employees with mental health conditions will be classed as disabled, particularly as some conditions can range from mild to severe. Nevertheless, many employees

with mental health conditions will satisfy this definition, especially where their condition has a clearly prohibitive effect on their personal and/or working life. This may be the case even though they do not consider themselves to be disabled in the ordinary sense of the word.

Where an employer suspects that an employee’s mental health may amount to a disability, they must comply with the usual duties that they owe towards disabled employees. This includes the duty to make reasonable adjustments, which requires them to take reasonable steps to help employees overcome the disadvantages caused by their mental health condition. For example, the ACAS guidance suggests that a potential reasonable adjustment would be to allow someone to work from home to manage distractions or engage in activities which allow them to manage their mental health.

In addition, employers could also face other disability discrimination claims if they were to treat an employee with a mental health condition less favourably because of that condition (direct discrimination) or something arising from it (discrimination arising from disability). For example, an employer may be liable for discrimination arising from disability where it treats an employee less favourably because they spend more time on sick leave due to mental health issues than other employees without their condition.

SUPPORTING EMPLOYEES WITH MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS Irrespective of whether an employee’s mental health condition amounts to a disability, encouraging conversations about mental health and supporting affected employees can often have positive impacts for businesses. Most importantly, it can help to improve staff wellbeing which in turn can reduce sickness absence and staff turnover and improve productivity. It will also help to minimise the risk of claims under the Equality Act 2010.

Therefore, all employers should take a proactive approach to dealing with mental health issues. Where an employee has disclosed a mental health condition, employers should consider what impact it is having on the employee and any possible adjustments. In doing so, employers should meet with the employee – ideally on an ongoing basis – to dis-

cuss their condition and, if in doubt, should consider making a referral to occupational health for expert advice.

However, not all employees struggling with their mental health are likely to speak up. Therefore, employers should remain alert to common warning signs, such as increased tiredness, behavioural changes and increased sickness absence/lateness. These warning signs can be more difficult to spot in homeworkers and so employers with working from home arrangements should ensure that they retain a regular and open dialogue with these employees.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR EMPLOYERS The ACAS guidance includes a number of tips for employers to encourage employees to talk about mental health. For example, it recommends that employers approach discussions about mental health in a positive and supportive way and they listen to and reassure employees who raise concerns. It also recommends using precise language, such as avoiding referring to employees with mental health conditions as “suffering from” their condition.

It is also increasingly common for employers to elect “mental health champions”. These are employees who support colleagues with mental health concerns, encourage positive mental health and challenge stigma across their organisation. Mental health champions are typically elected from volunteers across the workforce who are then provided with specific training about their mental health champion role.

In order to ensure that all employees act inclusively, employers should also consider providing general mental health training (particularly to managers) and running awareness campaigns across their business. They might also consider implementing a mental health policy setting out how employees should raise concerns and the steps that managers should take in response.

This open and inclusive approach will help to ensure that employers meet their duty of care to do all that they reasonably can to support employees’ health, safety and wellbeing, which applies to mental health in the same way as physical health.

Virtual Pet Therapy For Care Homes Pet therapy has become a part of the everyday routine in many care homes in the UK. The positive impact animals can have on the well-being of residents is well documented. But bringing animals into a care setting brings its own problems. It can be expensive and disruptive, they can be temperamental, and even the cleanest pets raise hygiene issues.

V-Thera virtual pets allow you to offer all the fun and engagement of a real pet, but in a clean, predictable and flexible way that fits in perfectly with your care home routine.

VIRTUAL PETS, REAL BENEFITS

From the moment the resident first puts the headset on, they are engaged and delighted as the pet sits, lies down, rolls over and feeds on command. They can even throw a ball for the pet to fetch. The experience is involving, relaxing and stimulating, enhancing a positive mood while encouraging movement and communication.

The pets themselves are wonderfully realistic, not just in the way they look, but in how they act. There are four dogs to choose from, and there’s even a moggie for cat lovers. They respond to voice or hand commands, or to big buttons on the screen. It’s ideal for previous pet owners, but also people nervous of animals.

TECHNOLOGY THAT CARES

V-Thera uses the latest Japanese mixed reality technology, meaning the virtual pet appears in the realworld, viewed through the headset. Seeing the familiar surroundings of their care home lounge reduces any sense of anxiety or disorientation for residents. The app can also be used lying down, so it can be

used in bedrooms.

The technology itself is completely intuitive, designed for people with no experience of gaming. The headset reads hand movements, so there is no need for hand controls after set-up. Setting the app up is easy and quick for staff, with no training required. It comes preloaded onto the latest Quest 3s headset, so it’s a simple matter of staff switching the headset on, selecting the V-Thera icon, selecting the dog – which you can name – then transferring the headset to the resident. They are immediately immersed in playing with the dog or cat.

The makers recommend sessions of up to ten minutes at a time, it’s very easy to accommodate the technology into the life of the home, and for staff it can create an excellent opportunity to bond with residents. A sharing function even means the sessions can be cast to other screens so all residents can share the experience.

The potential of new technologies like V-Thera for engaging with residents in a positive way points to an exciting future. The combination of advanced Mixed Reality with intuitive and thoughtful design means care homes can adopt the latest technology without disrupting the care routines already in place.

V-Thera was created in Japan by Remedy & Co and is available now in the UK through Care Activity Ltd. Managing Director Alison Lang says, “The minute we saw V-Thera, it was clear to us that this was an exciting innovation, a new way to offer something genuinely engaging to care home residents. The pets are fun, realistic and always ready to play. It is technology that brings care to life.”

Contact alison@careactivityxr.com www.careactivityxr.com

Strong Life Care Appoints Paul Hunter as Head of Estates & Facilities Strong Life Care has appointed Paul Hunter as Head of Estates & Facilities, further strengthening its senior leadership team as the organisa-

management.

In his new role, Paul will oversee estates and facilities across Strong

tion continues to develop its care home portfolio across the North of

Life Care’s nine care homes, with responsibility for safety, sustainability,

England and the Midlands.

compliance and the ongoing development of high-quality, resident-cen-

Paul joins Strong Life Care with a broad professional background in estates and facilities management. Having begun his career as a chef, he

tred environments.

Harpreet Banwait, Owner of Strong Life Care, said: “We are delighted to

later progressed into facilities leadership and completed an MSc in

welcome Paul to the senior management team at an important stage in

Facilities Management at the University of Lincoln. He also holds a range

our journey. His experience and approach to estates and facilities will play

of sector-relevant qualifications, with experience spanning estates compli-

a key role in supporting both quality of care and the wellbeing of our resi-

ance, dementia-friendly environments and community-focused facilities

dents and teams.”

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 5

Gene Variants Linked To At Least 7 In 10 Alzheimer’s Cases, Study Suggests Care professionals across the UK may need to reconsider their understanding of genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, following the publication of significant new research that challenges previous assumptions about the APOE gene.

The study, published in npj Dementia by researchers at University College London, analysed health data from over 450,000 individuals and found that two variants of the APOE gene – APOE3 and APOE4 – could account for more than 70% of Alzheimer’s cases. The research also suggests these genetic variants may be linked to approximately 45% of all dementia cases.

Lead researcher Dr Dylan Williams highlighted the importance of modifiable risk factors, noting that research indicates nearly half of global dementia cases could potentially be prevented or delayed by addressing factors such as social isolation and managing conditions like high cholesterol.

This finding holds particular relevance for care professionals, who are uniquely positioned to support residents in maintaining social connections and managing health conditions that may influence dementia risk.

CURRENT LIMITATIONS AND FUTURE RESEARCH

UNDERSTANDING APOE VARIANTS

Most people carry two copies of the APOE gene, which exists in several different versions. The most common variants are APOE2, APOE3, and APOE4. Until now, APOE4 has been recognised as the strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which typically develops after age 65. APOE3, by contrast, was generally considered to have a neutral effect on dementia risk.

The new findings suggest that APOE3 may actually contribute to Alzheimer’s and dementia risk more significantly than previously thought – a revelation that could have important implications for care planning and understanding disease progression in residential settings.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CARE HOMES

Dr Sheona Scales, Director of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, emphasised that whilst the research provides important insights, it’s crucial to understand that not everyone with these gene variants will develop dementia. “There’s a complex relationship between genetics and other risk factors for dementia,” she explained.

The study focused primarily on data from people of European ancestry, meaning further research is needed to understand how these genetic variants affect other ethnic groups – an important consideration given the diverse populations many care homes serve.

Notably, despite APOE’s strong connection to Alzheimer’s, very few treatments currently in clinical trials target this gene directly.

Researchers suggest this could represent a promising avenue for future treatment and prevention strategies.

TESTING AND PREVENTION

APOE testing is not currently available through the NHS for individuals concerned about their future dementia risk. This is largely due to the complexity of Alzheimer’s risk factors – having one or more copies of APOE3 or APOE4 does not guarantee someone will develop the disease, and people with other APOE variants can still develop dementia.

Dr Scales offered reassurance: “We cannot change which variants of APOE we have, but there are still steps we can all take to lower our dementia risk as much as possible. It is never too late to start making positive changes to protect our brain health.”

Experimenting With The Braille Code On World Braille Day Residents at Yeovil dementia care home Chestnut Lodge started the New Year by experimenting with a new skill – learning about braille on World Braille Day (4 January).

“The idea of a braille-based activities session came about thanks to some of our residents who have difficulty with their sight,” explained activities co-ordinator Gary Shackle.

“We started looking into it and discovered that World Braille Day is celebrated every year on 4 January, which was the birthday in 1809 of Louis Braille, the blind French inventor of braille.

“So on 4th January our residents were shown the braille alphabet and we had a discussion about how important it is and learned a bit about the life of Louis Braille.

“Residents had great fun with a simplified version of the code: creating their names by picking their own colours and copying the braille alphabetic format.”

Around 340,000 to 350,000 people are registered as blind or partially sighted across the UK, with nearly 2 million people having sight loss that significantly affects daily life.

PAGE 6 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

January: A Key Point in the Year for Early Dementia Care Planning

By Rebecca Rawlings, Registered Manager, Mill House Care Home is a purpose-built, family-run home in Worcester specialising in dementia care (www.themillhousecarehome.co.uk) Care professionals increasingly recognise January as a pivotal moment when families begin to engage more proactively with dementia care planning. Following the Christmas period, relatives often reflect on changes they have noticed, creating an opportunity for earlier, more informed conversations about future support needs.

According to the Alzheimer’s Society, almost one million people in the UK are currently living with dementia, with numbers projected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040. The charity has consistently highlighted the risks associated with delayed care planning, including crisis-led decision-making and increased strain on health and social care services.

Evidence suggests that when families are supported to explore care options earlier — before a point of acute need — outcomes can improve for both individuals living with dementia and those supporting them. Early engagement allows for greater continuity, better alignment with personal needs, and smoother transitions should care requirements change.

“From a care perspective, January is often when families feel ready to start conversa-

tions they may have been postponing,” says Rebecca Rawlings, Registered Manager at The Mill House Care Home. “Early planning enables families to understand the range of dementia care options available, which in turn supports better continuity of care and reduces the likelihood of decisions being made under pressure.”

Figures from NHS England show that hundreds of thousands of people provide unpaid care to relatives living with dementia, often alongside employment and other responsibilities. Without early guidance and support, many carers report high levels of stress and uncertainty, particularly when care needs escalate unexpectedly.

Care providers have a growing role to play alongside GPs, memory services and community teams — offering families guidance, specialist knowledge and reassurance as part of a joined-up approach to dementia care. January presents an opportunity to encourage earlier engagement, helping families feel informed and supported long before a crisis point is reached.

HC-One Residents Attend Special Filming of The Yorkshire Vet at Cannon Hall Farm Residents and team members from HC-One’s Lydgate Lodge, Ashworth Grange and Greenacres care homes in West Yorkshire, enjoyed a magical evening, after being invited to attend the filming of The Yorkshire Vet at the much-loved Cannon Hall Farm.

The event brought together farm owners Rob and Dave Nicholson, also familiar to many as co-hosts of Springwatch and Autumnwatch, alongside the veterinary team from the hit programme The Yorkshire Vet. The evening was held in support of The Dog’s Trust, with all proceeds donated to the charity.

In the weeks leading up to the event, residents and colleagues were approached by Daisy Beck Productions to contribute handmade knitted items for one of the charity stalls. Together, they created a beautiful collection of knit-

ted animals, Christmas decorations, and Christmas cracker covers, all of which were proudly displayed and sold on a stall hosted by the show’s vets.

The festive celebration also included an auction, raffle, and a lively Christmas jumper catwalk show. Guests were welcomed with mince pies and mulled wine on arrival, and treated to a cupcake as a parting gift, bringing a sweet end to a heart-warming evening.

Resident Brenda Dixon, aged 92 years old, shared her delight: “It was a lovely evening and what a treat to meet Peter the vet!”

Unit Manager Stacey Dillon added: “What a fantastic night! It was lovely to see so many happy, smiling faces and to be involved in something like this.”

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THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 7

Flu Levels ‘Stubbornly Stable’ In Older Age Groups Despite Overall Decline Levels of respiratory viruses such as flu and RSV are continuing to fall at the start of the New Year, but levels among older adults remained raised and of concern, according to the latest surveillance data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Following an early start to the flu season this winter, levels have been declining since mid-December among most age groups. UKHSA has also today extended the cold-health alert, with all regions in England remaining under an amber alert until 12pm on Monday 12 January, which is another concern for older adults who can be more vulnerable to cold weather.

While the data is encouraging, it’s important to note that levels of respiratory viruses among those aged 85 years and over, who are the most vulnerable to severe illness and hospitalisation, have not declined. It’s vital that people still take precautions to reduce the spread of these viruses, particularly to those more vulnerable.

The latest data shows that hospital admissions for flu and RSV were highest among those aged 85 years and over in the first week of the year.

Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA said: “Further falls in flu levels overall are encouraging but cases of flu and RSV among older age groups are staying stubbornly stable for now, with no signs of a drop in the number of older adults needing “emergency care for respiratory illnesses. We know flu is unpredictable, and the end of flu season could be some months away.”

“People aged 65 and over, and others most at risk, can still get a flu vaccine, which reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation. Flu vaccination appointments are still available on the NHS national booking system and anyone who hasn’t yet had their vaccine should take it up for the remaining winter to protect themselves – flu often circulates well into March. RSV vaccination remains open year-round for pregnant

women and any older adults aged 75 to 80 who haven’t yet had a dose.

“People are returning to work and school after Christmas and this gives respiratory viruses like flu more chances to spread. If you have symptoms, including a high temperature, cough and feeling tired or achy, you should try to minimise contact with others, especially those more vulnerable.”

Eligible groups can still get their flu vaccine through the NHS and while cases did spike in December, we know that flu is unpredictable and it is always possible that there could still be further increases over the next couple of months.

THOSE WHO ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE FLU VACCINE INCLUDES:

• everyone over 65 • those who are pregnant • children from the age of 2 years (as of 31 Aug) to school year 11 • those with certain long-term health conditions The RSV vaccine is available to those aged 75 to 79, those who turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024.

Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Norovirus cases remain within expected levels in recent weeks, but it’s important we all remember the simple steps we can take to help prevent the spread of this very nasty virus.

“Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so do not rely on these alone.

“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and do not prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection to those most vulnerable.”

Back Of The Net! Bristol Care Home Makes Football Fan’s Dream Come True A resident at a care home in Bristol has had his long-held wish fulfilled with a pitch-perfect outing to watch his favourite football team play.

When the team at Care UK’s Trymview Hall, on Southmead Road in Westbury-on-Trym, heard about John Coletto’s desire to cheer on his beloved Bristol City from the stands once again, they set about giving him the full fan experience.

John, 76, has been a lifelong fan of the Robins and frequently attended matches at the club’s home ground in his younger years.

On the day of the visit, John enjoyed the full VIP experience, with a meal at Ashton Gate and catching up with friends before watching Bristol City vs Birmingham City FC, with Bristol taking home the win, scoring 1-0.

John said: “I felt very overwhelmed having the VIP treatment and being back in my old club. It was lovely!”

Nicole Anderson, Home Manager at Trymview Hall, said: “We always like to go the extra mile for residents here and make their wishes come true – no matter how big, small or unusual. John speaks so fondly of the many years he’s spent supporting Bristol City, so we were really excited to be able to make his wish of returning to the stadium come true.

“John was thrilled when we surprised him and he was so excited to be back at Ashton Gate. It was fantastic to see John enjoying the visit, and we were pleased to be able to give him the opportunity to reminisce at a place that has meant so much to him since his childhood.”

PAGE 8 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Over Four Million Working Days Lost to Work-Place Stress in the Public Sector Work-related stress is causing over four million lost working days per year in the public sector, with an overhaul of staff training needed to fix the problem, according to new analysis by Forbes Solicitors (www.forbessolicitors.co.uk).

The government’s latest Employer Skills Survey shows that employers in education, health and social work, and public administration are the most likely in the UK to have provided staff with training during the past 12 months. However, all three sectors are experiencing the UK’s highest rates of work-related stress, depression or anxiety.

Recently published HSE data shows above-average numbers of public sector workers reporting health issues caused by undue pressures and demands placed on them at work.

The rate of public administration and defence sector employees reporting work-related stress, depression or anxiety stands at 3.5%, while it ranks at 2.8% in human health and social work activities, and is 2.6% in the education sector. This compares to an average of 2% across all industries.

Each person suffering stress, depression or anxiety took an average 22.9 days off from work during 2024-2025, according to the HSE. Analysis by the Public Sector Division at Forbes Solicitors’ shows this could be causing 4.2million* lost working days throughout the public sector per year, despite the willingness of organisations to invest in training to support staff.

Ridwaan Omar, a Partner and Head of Regulatory at Forbes Solicitors, commented: “Public sector employers should be commended for prioritising staff training, but also be mindful that current approaches might be doing more harm than good. Organisations may believe they have solutions in place, like training,

to address work-place stress, but the data shows this isn’t working and risks compromising an employer’s duty of care to protect staff health and wellbeing.

“It’s alarming the three sectors (education, health and social work, and public administration) which rank top for providing staff training, are also the same three sectors experiencing the highest levels of work-place stress, depression or anxiety. There’s a clear disconnect here and an overhaul of training is required to ensure it is fit for purpose and meeting the needs of workers.

“Employers may want to revisit workplace risk assessments to effectively determine triggers of stress and to inform the development of training programmes that effectively support staff. This could help organisations to fulfil their legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to protect to protect employees from work-related stress and mental health risks.” *4.2million lost working days based on: ONS data shows 6.18million employees in the public sector – source.

Mean rate of 2.97% of public sector workers reporting work-related stress, depression or anxiety.

This is based on a mean calculated across 3.5% (public administration), 2.8% (human health and social work) and 2.6% (education).

2.97% of 6.18million = 183,546 employees.

183,546 x 22.9 days off work for work-related stress, depression or anxiety = 4,203,203.4 lost working days.

References: Government’s Employer Skills Survey, published 25th July 2025 - link HSE, Work-related stress, depression or anxiety statistics in Great Britain 2025 – link HSE, Working days lost in Great Britain in 2024/25 - link

Bedhampton Care Home Brings Generations Together Through Collaboration With Local Youth Hub Portsdown View care home in Bedhampton welcomed a group of young people from Havant Youth Hub as part of a new collaboration with Havant Borough Council. Aimed at supporting the social development, employability, and personal growth of the four participants, the team wanted to give them a taste of what it’s like to live and work in a care home.

During the visit, residents and their young guests took part in a variety of fun and educational activities including chair yoga, arts and crafts, team games and puzzles, and they also later enjoyed lunch together at the home’s on-site restaurant. The residents and youngsters were fast friends; so much so that one of the participants has since applied to a professional carer role at Portsdown View.

Pippa Mafunga, General Manager at Portsdown View, comments: “It was truly wonderful to see our residents connect so easily and naturally with some local youngsters. It goes to show that when generational barriers are overcome and people are given a chance to connect, the results are always meaningful, uplifting and memorable for everyone involved. We’re also

incredibly proud to be the first care home in the borough to take part in this brilliant scheme!”

The visit was also structured to offer participants a valuable insight into working in the social care sector, whilst helping them gain valuable employability skills including interpersonal communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and empathy for people at all stages of life.

The experience also supported the aims of the Empower You programme; Havant Young Hub’s 14-week development initiative designed to build confidence, self-esteem and essential life skills..

A representative from Havant Youth Hub adds: “It was genuinely heartwarming to see how a single day at Portsdown View inspired so much growth and optimism among the participants. Sometimes, all young people need is to see how many exciting and fruitful career opportunities are out there; which is why collaborations like this are so crucial. We are very excited for the young people and all that lies ahead for them, and we very much look forward to continuing our collaboration throughout 2026!”

107-year-old War Veteran Arthur Gillett Celebrates Birthday at Pytchley Court Resident Arthur Gillett has celebrated an extraordinary milestone as he marked his 107th birthday at HC-One’s Pytchley Court Care Home in Brixworth, Northampton.

Arthur’s birthday marks more than 107 years – it celebrates a lifetime of living, learning, loving and witnessing a world that has changed in ways few can imagine. From the days of handwritten letters to the age of instant connection, Arthur’s life has stretched across generations, holding priceless stories and wisdom that cannot be taught.

Born on 11 January 1919, Arthur was surrounded by fellow residents, colleagues and loved ones as he celebrated more than a century of memories, resilience and achievement.

Arthur lived through some of the most significant moments in modern history and served his country during the Second World War. Although he never spoke of war as glorious, his quiet courage and determination tell a powerful story. Due to an injury sustained while serving overseas, Arthur later returned home to the UK, which enabled him to travel to Trafalgar Square in London on 8 May 1945 to take part in the historic VE Day celebrations.

As a young man, Arthur worked as an apprentice steam locomotive fitter in Liverpool and joined the Territorial Army in 1939, despite being in a protected occupation. Determined to contribute to the war effort, he went on to serve in several units, eventually reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME). His service took him across the UK and overseas to North Africa, where he survived a dramatic convoy attack at sea and later sustained a serious knee injury while on active duty.

Arthur’s daughter, Norma, explained that despite the severity of his injury, Arthur rarely spoke about it and managed his disability so well that his family were largely unaware of its impact during his younger years. As he aged, the injury affected his mobility and eventually led to a hip replacement at almost 96 years old.

Norma encouraged Arthur to record his life story using his computer so it could be shared with future generations. Arthur embraced the technology and enjoyed documenting his experiences for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, ensuring his memories and lessons would live on.

After the war, Arthur returned to civilian life, resuming work on the railways and adapting to post-war Britain with characteristic patience and optimism. Despite the challenges he faced, Arthur is known by his family for his warmth, humour and enduring smile.

Susan Watson, Home Manager at HC-One’s Pytchley Court Care Home, said: “Arthur’s 107th birthday is an incredible achievement and a true celebration of a life lived with resilience, humour and grace. He has witnessed extraordinary change across generations, and his stories and wisdom are treasured by everyone here. It was an honour to celebrate this remarkable milestone with Arthur, surrounded by those who care for him.”

“A 107th birthday is far more than a number, it is a testament to a life rich with memories, challenges bravely faced and moments of joy shared with loved ones. Arthur’s birthday was a celebration not just of the years, but of the life lived within them, a truly remarkable milestone for a truly remarkable gentleman.”

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 9

NHS’s Shift To Neighbourhoods Could Flounder Without Strengthening The Workforce, Health Committee Tells Govt The Health and Social Care Committee has warned that the Government’s 10 Year Workforce Plan for the NHS – shifting services from hospitals to neighbourhoods – won’t succeed without improving the working conditions of district nurses and other professionals working in the community.

The workforce of allied health professionals, such as physios, pharmacists and occupational health staff, is similarly highlighted as facing shortages due to poor recruitment and retention. This is blamed on the community sector offering staff worse pay, fewer opportunities to advance their careers, and poorer training than the acute sector.

The cross-party Committee’s warning comes in a letter to the Minister of State for Health, Karin Smith. It includes recommendations based on evidence MPs heard from workforce representatives of different professions within the NHS, who will be key to making the transition to neighbourhood health services a reality.

The Committee’s letter also recommends to Minister Smith that clinical staff working in the acute sector – major hospitals – will need further training before they can be redeployed to neighbourhood services.

The letter states: “TheGovernment must set out what training and support it will put in place to equip healthcare professionals withthespecificskillstheyneedto support them to workeffectivelyin community settings, as well as how itwill support staff to find the capacity to engage with that training.”

Health and Social Care Committee Chair Layla Moran MP said: “There is broad support for the principle of shifting NHS services back to neighbourhoods, but this move could flounder if chronic problems aren’t tackled. The forthcoming workforce plan needs to contain concrete action to improve conditions for communitybased clinicians and allied health professionals so that these careers will be properly valued and seen as more attractive.”

Hartford Care Acquires 16 Care Homes from Select Healthcare Group Following the acquisition of Select Healthcare Group by Foundation Partners and Deer Capital, 16 fully operational homes across England and North Wales will now be managed by Hartford Care Group. The transfer further reinforces Hartford Care’s ambitious growth strategy, adding an additional 801 bedrooms to its portfolio which now comprises 45 homes in the UK, and 2,327 bedrooms. Turnover at the Hartford Care Group rose from £40m in 2023 to over £140m in 2026.

The homes acquired in North Wales are Ashgrove and Ashleigh Court in Gresford and Broughton Hall and Rhosyn Melyn in Wrexham. In the Midlands: Benton House in New Rossington, Doncaster; Chapel Lodge in Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak; Springfield Park in Rochdale; Delves Court in Walsall and Aldergrove Manor, Greenleigh, Island Court and Victoria Lodge in Wolverhampton. In the South of England: Beech Tree in Overton, Basingstoke, Primecare Residential in Basildon, Essex and Ramsgate Care

Centre and Wantsum Lodge in Ramsgate, Kent.

Kevin Shaw, Chief Executive of Hartford Care, said: “The acquisition of 16 homes from Select Healthcare Group is another important milestone in our ambitious growth plan for Hartford Care. With over 2,500 dedicated team members, our expansion into the Midlands, Essex, North Wales and further into Kent enables us to offer our expert care and ‘home from home’ environment to more residents in new communities. We will be working closely alongside Select Healthcare Group to ensure a smooth transition as we bring the homes into the Hartford Care family.”

Brett Bernard, Chief Executive of Select Healthcare Group, comments: “The transfer of the homes to Hartford Care Group is a logical step and allows us to focus on our growth strategy for the Select Specialist Care.

We wish Kevin and the team success, and I know that our outgoing team and residents will be well cared for.”

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PAGE 10 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Taking Ownership of Change: Why the Isle of Man is Using Innovation to Enhance its Health and Social Care

By Mark Fuller, Director of Health and Social Care Transformation, Isle of Man Government Department for Health and Social Care (www.gov.im) After more than 20 years working within the NHS, I’ve seen first-hand the pressures of transforming complex health and social care systems. Joining the Isle of Man Government’s Department for Health and Social Care, I found similar challenges: workforce shortages, fragmented digital infrastructure and balancing financial pressures with rising expectations. But what stood out was the scale of the opportunity.

Rather than allowing constraints to define us, the Isle of Man has made a clear decision: to take ownership of change. Our annual Innovation Challenge signals that intent. In 2026, the Challenge is focusing entirely on Health and Social Care - inviting global innovators to work with us to solve real problems and improve outcomes for the people we serve, tackling our challenges head on.

A SYSTEM READY FOR CHANGE

Like the UK, our services are under strain, but they are filled with passionate individuals, eager for progress. My experience working closely with Manx Care has revealed a deeply committed workforce who want to make things better for patients, service-users, carers, and colleagues. What holds us back isn’t enthusiasm, it’s infrastructure. With over 140 digital systems in play, data sharing is cumbersome and the administrative burden is high – hindering efficiency and patient care.

However, the public purse is not bottomless, and we can’t hire our way out of these challenges. We need a platform to trial, refine and scale solutions that work.

THE INNOVATION CHALLENGE: TURNING POTENTIAL INTO PROGRESS

With appetite for digital innovation growing, there is an appreciation that technology can deliver massive efficiencies: streamlining administration, improving workforce management, and enabling data-driven decision-making.

That’s where the 2026 Innovation Challenge comes in. Born from early conversations with the Department for Enterprise, which highlighted the impact of innovations the Island has already implemented in areas Data, EdTech and Fintech from previous finalists. The Challenge was quickly recognised as the ideal vehicle to bring new thinking into our health and care systems. Through this year’s focus, we want to signal the Isle of Man is open to innovation, partnering with global companies to co-create solutions.

WHAT WILL WORK AND WHY

Having led NHS transformation projects, I know that targeted innovation delivers real progress. On the Isle of Man, we’re focused on practical solutions that enhance care, support professionals, and improve outcomes. Integrated records, digital tools, and AI can reduce administrative burden - for example, automating patient correspondence or streamlining workforce planning with smart rostering. Better use of data can shift

staff time from manual reporting to genuine service improvement.

These changes free colleagues to focus on high value work rather than paperwork. For service users, digital resources and apps can also increase independence, moving from paternalistic care to true partnership.

These are just some of the opportunities we’re ready to explore.

A TESTBED FOR THE FUTURE The Isle of Man is uniquely positioned as a “petri dish” to lead digital transformation. Our integrated health and social care structure allows for rapid implementation and meaningful evaluation. Broader than a typical “integrated trust” in the UK, Manx Care is responsible for primary, secondary, health, social care, community, mental health and prison healthcare.

We’re big enough to generate robust data, but small enough to innovate quickly and “fail fast”, testing solutions on a manageable scale before expanding further. We have the infrastructure and policy alignment of the NHS, but with the agility to adapt swiftly across all specialities in the sector.

Businesses from as far as Singapore are already using the island to test and refine solutions before scaling globally. For entrepreneurial organisations, this is a rare opportunity to gain traction, gather evidence and showcase impact in a real-world setting.

FROM CHALLENGE TO OPPORTUNITY Technology is the lever to drive efficiency, improve care, and create a sustainable working environment.

This year’s Innovation Challenge is our call to action, investing in better services to ease long-term pressures and unlock new possibilities.

Emerging from our workshop earlier in the year, the 2026 Challenge will focus on solutions across three themes: • Working Smarter: Transforming healthcare operations to boost capacity, enhance experiences, and deliver better outcomes.

• Wellness: Shifting from reactive care to proactive prevention through self-care, early intervention, and community support.

• Home First: Providing personalised, high-quality care outside hospitals, integrated into daily life.

These goals reflect daily realities - social care assessments that take weeks and untapped data that could boost quality and performance. Even basic insights, feeding into population health data, are desperately valuable if we break silos and invest in digital maturity.

A CALL TO ACTION 2026 marks the fifth and final year of the current Island Plan, which prioritises digitisation. Coupled with the government’s efficiency programme targeting £50 million in savings over five years, momentum for change is clear.

This is more than a challenge—it’s an invitation. We’re opening our doors to global innovators to help shape the future of care on the Isle of Man. It’s a broader story about modernising public services for everyone on the island. By opening our doors to new ideas and global expertise, we’re demonstrating what’s possible when a system chooses to own its future.

Maria Mallaband Appoints Paul McPartlan as Chief Operating Officer Care home provider Maria Mallaband Care Group has appointed Paul McPartlan as Chief Operating Officer – 35 years after he began his journey as a front-line carer.

Paul’s experience as a volunteer carer working with patients recovering from spinal injuries in 1990, inspired his lifelong commitment to the sector. His career in health and wellbeing has included senior positions with Nuffield Health, BMI Healthcare, Elysium Healthcare, and Places Leisure (Places for People), where he most recently served as Chief Executive.

He joins Maria Mallaband Care Group (MMCG) – one of the UK’s leading independent care home providers with almost 80 homes across the UK – as the company drives ahead with investment and innovation.

Paul said: “I hope my extensive operational experience across healthcare can help the organisation to grow and flourish. I jumped at the chance to join a group that is doing so well and has great potential to do even more, meeting the growing

demand for high quality, compassionate care.”

Paul has set out his ambition to see every MMCG home rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and has plans to visit every location across the group to see how he can better support staff.

He added: “I want us to be Good or Outstanding everywhere and continue to invest and improve. I also want to help forge careers like mine, from care worker to COO, for those that want to have that opportunity.

“I will be visiting all of our homes over the coming weeks and months to understand how I can help our teams achieve their goals, and the organisation achieve its goals. We have an incredibly bright future ahead. I can’t wait to get started.”

Phil Burgan, Chairman said: “We’re delighted to welcome Paul to the MMCG family. His combination of operational experience, strategic vision and genuine understanding of frontline care makes him the perfect fit to lead our operations as we continue our mission to deliver outstanding care across all our homes.”

Intelligent Lights For Falls Detection from Nobi Nobi makes lives safer by preventing and detecting falls.

Powered by cutting-edge AI technology, this intelligent light monitors the entire room discreetly and accurately — all while blending seamlessly into any interior with its awardwinning, homelike design. Nobi supports older adults in living a dignified, carefree and happy life, with complete respect for their privacy.

A fall can dramatically change someone’s life. Rapid assistance after a fall — or, even better, preventing a fall altogether — is invaluable. It is crucial for older adults, but equally vital for caregivers who are committed to ensuring safety, comfort and independence. The moment a fall occurs, Nobi sends an immediate alert to care staff, creating the peace of mind that every incident will be seen and acted upon. “Long lies” and their harmful consequences belong firmly in the past. With Nobi’s intelligent prevention and detection working in the background, caregivers can focus on warm, meaningful and person-centred care.

From its very beginning, Nobi has carried one clear vision: to make care environments places where safe-

ty feels natural, dignity feels effortless, and ageing is embraced rather than feared. The Nobi Light was the first proof of that vision. At first glance, it looks like a simple design light — yet within it, Nobi redefined fall detection, fall prevention and smarter care. It showed that technology does not need to look technical. It can disappear into everyday life, becoming part of the environment while quietly transforming it.

Today, the Light remains at the heart of everything we do. Around it, Nobi is building the Nobi Care Flow: a connected layer where people, technology and routines work together effortlessly. This care flow gives residents a greater sense of safety, offers caregivers more time and peace of mind, and provides leadership with clarity to run safer, more efficient communities. All intelligence, integrations and software are included, making Nobi one of the most cost-efficient and impactful upgrades in elderly care.

Nobi is more than a smart light.

It is a dignified, intelligent care ecosystem — one that helps care flow again. By bringing safety, clarity and confidence into every room, Nobi supports the people at the heart of care: the residents who deserve to feel safe, and the caregivers who deserve tools that truly help them. info@nobi.life www.nobi.life

PAGE 12 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

UK Wants To Give Back: Almost Half Are Likely To Volunteer In 2026 A survey by Marie Curie end of life charity, has demonstrated how UK adults want to give back to their communities in 2026, with almost half (47%) likely to volunteer in the next year.

The results reveal the main barriers to volunteering, with half (50%) of people feeling that a lack of time is the biggest barrier. This is followed by concerns about the level of commitment (22%), uncertainty about how to get involved (18%) and a lack of awareness of opportunities in their local area (17%).

Meanwhile, of those who have volunteered, the majority (56%) say that giving back to their community inspires them, and almost half (49%) say that it gives them a sense of pride and purpose. Connection matters too, with 38% saying they get involved to meet people and feel part of something bigger.

The poll also uncovered the factors that would make people more likely to volunteer in 2026, and some generational differences too.

Overall, people are more likely to sign up to opportunities that are short-term (26%) and have flexible hours (26%). Social connection is also a significant motivator for Gen Z, with 32% saying they’d be more likely to volunteer if they could do it with friends or family. For Millennials, flexible hours that fit around work and family life is the biggest motivator, whilst Gen X would be most likely to volunteer for short term or one-off opportunities. Overall, all generations are most motivated by giving something back to the community, closely followed by the sense of purpose and pride that volunteering gives them.

In light of this insight, Marie Curie is urging people to give just a cou-

ple of hours of their time to collect for the Great Daffodil Appeal this March. With the average collection shift lasting just two hours, often done in pairs at a local Morrisons store, it’s a flexible and fun opportunity to give back.

In 2025, 6,642 volunteers helped raise over £1.2 million for the iconic Great Daffodil Appeal.

Jayne Waterhouse, Head of Regional Fundraising at Marie Curie, said: “With almost half of the UK saying they’re likely to volunteer in the

next year, it’s clear that the public just need the right opportunity. The Great Daffodil Appeal, now in it’s 40th year, is a simple, fun and easy way people can give back to their local communities and help us continue to bring vital end of life care to more people.

“Volunteering can be such a rewarding experience, you can take part with friends or family and our team will be on hand to support you and make sure you have everything you need so you have the best volunteer experience possible.

“Just a two-hour collection can raise £85, which is enough to help fund almost four hours of expert nursing care or five calls to our free national Support Line, so every shift can make a real difference to terminally ill people and their loved ones.

“By getting involved, you can help Marie Curie provide expert end of life care and support to more people, whatever the illness.”

Marie Curie is dependent on fundraising and public donations and last year supporters helped the charity provide direct palliative and end of life care to over 42,000 people across the UK via its hospices and specialist nursing care in people’s own homes. Money raised during the Great Daffodil Appeal also helps fund vital research and the charity’s Support Line, which provided practical information and a listening ear over 21,000 times to people across the UK last year.

To find out more about how you can sign up to collect for the Great Daffodil Appeal this March and help Marie Curie provide more expert care and support, visit: Marie Curie Volunteer at www.mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/fundraise/collect

Care Home Residents Raise £1.3k To Help Those With Dementia In Their Community Kindhearted residents, staff and families at a Dorset dementia care home have raised more than £1,300 to help all those in their community who live with the condition.

It follows a series of activities at Colten Care’s Fernhill in Longham, one of the south coast provider’s four dedicated dementia care homes.

Among residents attending the handover of a £1,313.15 cheque was Robert Simpson who described the support for the Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town group, the home’s charity for the past year, as ‘a great cause’.

Fundraising events have included fetes, gala lunches, garden produce sales and performances by a community choir involving Fernhill residents, families, friends and team members.

The group is part of the Growing Compassionate Communities Charity and works to ensure those living locally with dementia, and their families, have guidance and practical support. Its committee includes a range of community volunteers including representatives from Colten Care and other local businesses.

Fernhill Home Manager Lorraine Bell said: “We are proud to support a charity that makes such a mean-

ingful difference to people living with dementia.”

Representing Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town at the cheque presentation were Chairman Michael Deane and Secretary Emma Regan.

Emma said: “The funds raised by Fernhill will go a long way to supporting our local projects.

These include our ‘Seed to Larder’ allotment projects, funding a fully accessible toilet for a year, and music concerts, especially the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Cake Concerts.

Michael and I are so very grateful for all the support and funds from Fernhill.”

Maintaining community contacts is a key strand of Colten Care’s overall dementia care strategy for residents.

It has been evolved with extensive leadership and input from Kay Gibson, Colten Care’s Admiral Nurse, since her appointment in partnership with Dementia UK in 2016.

Kay said: “Engaging with the community is an important aspect of life in our dementia care homes. The connections between social interaction, companionship, memory and wellbeing are incredibly powerful.”

The F Word- Step Up To Avoid It! A fall- the F word- is massively on the increase: among older people, up 57% last year!(1). More than 40,000 people are hospitalised each year because of a fall on stairs(2).

Falls cost on many levels: ambulance call-outs, stays in hospital, admission into care, provision of home care. There is the psychological cost too: people become wary doing everyday activities.

Yet, with prescription of appropriate equipment, many of those could be avoided.

AAT’s S-Max Sella stairclimbing wheelchair is proven over 20 years to make traversing stairs safe for people with mobility issues/ a disability(3). Battery powered, Sella not only travels up and down stairs, but outside steps too.

It removes the barrier(s) that prevents someone- young or old- being able to fully access their home environment.

Unlike alternative solutions, it is completely mobile/portable. The Sella stairclimber requires no installation nor electric supply to function. It is not limited to the staircase, meaning it can be used to move its passenger anywhere in the property and beyond without them needing to transfer off it.

Sella has an impeccable safety record and is the stairclimbing choice for virtually every local authority in the UK. As a result, it has the unique capability to be re-prescribed (re-issued) multiple times, giving the council best value and use of equipment resources.

The Nelson family demonstrates Sella’s value. They were prescribed one by their OT Fran Richardson after numerous “near misses” carrying their disabled son on the stairs.

Fran commented,” “The stairclimber eliminates the risks associated with using the stairs for the family. Its versatility ensures it effectively addresses their current challenges and supports their long-term needs. The Sella cost less than half of the alternative options.”

Full details of the Sella stairclimber, including video of it in action, and how to book a free no obligation assessment, can be found @ www.aatgb.com/s-maxsella/.

(1) https://operabeds.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/falls-in-the-elderly-uk-65-injury-and-accident-statistics (2) https://www.rospa.com/campaigns-and-fundraising/current-campaigns/safer-stairs (3) Subject to there being someone competent on hand to operate the equipment

FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE ADULT SOCIAL CARE SECTOR VISIT WWW.THECARERUK.COM

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 13

Government Announces £50m For The Disabled Facilities Grant

Department for Health has announced an £50m boost to the Disabled Facilities Grant, which will be distributed to local authorities next month.

The government says that this announcement will bring total DSG funding for 2025-26 to £761 million. The DFG supports around 60,000 older people and people with disabilities each year, with an average grant of around £10,000 distributed by councils.

It comes at the start of a year when Baroness Casey’s Independent Commission is due to publish its first recommendations.

The money will be used for features like stairlifts, ramps and smart technologies.

This brings total funding to £761million, helping older and disabled people live independently, which the government said would ease pressure on the NHS. Cllr Steven Broadbent, Vice-Chair of the County Councils Network, said: “This £50m investment for the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) will help County Councils Network members to support more residents to live safely and independently in their own homes and will relieve some immediate pressure on waiting lists.

“But this funding should be seen as a short-term boost rather than a long-term solution. Demand for home adaptations continues to rise, construction costs remain high, and councils still operate within a system that has not kept pace with need. Without

sustained increases to the DFG budget and wider reform of adult social care, councils will continue to face difficult choices and residents reliant on these adaptations will continue to face long delays for support.”

Millie Brown, deputy director for homes at the Centre for Ageing Better, said: “We welcome the additional funding for the Disabled Facilities Grant [DFG] which will help thousands more people to feel safer in their own hoes and to have greater independence.

“Improving accessibility and reducing the falls risk in people’s homes offers excellent value for taxpayers’ money. Every £1 spent on home improvements to reduce falls lead to £7.5 worth of savings for the health and care sector.

“We know that the DFG can be a lifeline for people who are able to navigate the process but the system is far from perfect. Wewant more to be done to ensure more people on low incomesare able toreceive support from the scheme.

“There is also a lack of awareness about what is available through the DFG scheme among those who might benefit, who is eligible and how to apply. Services at a local level to deliver home improvements are varied and patchy across the country.

“Establishing a national network of one-stop shops known as Good Home Hubs would create a trustworthy and reliable source of information to access advice and support on this issue for residents regardless of where they lived.”

Berkshire Care Home Staff Obtains Queen’s Nurse Award For High Standards Of Care Emily Rock, Clinical Nurse Manager at RMBI Care Co. Home Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court, in Wokingham, has achieved the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse by The Queen’s Nursing Institute. The Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI) is a registered charity dedicated to improving the nursing care of people in their own homes and communities.

The title demonstrates a commitment to high standards of patient care, learning and leadership. Nurses who hold the title benefit from developmental workshops, bursaries, networking opportunities and a shared professional identity.

Emily says: “Receiving this award reflects not only my professional development, but also the fulfilment I take in supporting

residents to live with dignity, comfort and respect. I am passionate about encouraging residents to engage in positive risk taking, empowering them to maintain independence and be involved within their care. What I enjoy most about being a nurse is building meaningful relationships, making each day as happy and fulfilling as possible through care, kindness and compassion. This award motivates me to continue striving for excellence in nursing practice.”

While still working at RMBI Care Co., Emily studied at the University of West London and qualified with First Class Honours in Mental Health Nursing in 2018. She went on to become a full time nurse at Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court, where she has since been promoted to Clinical Lead.

Jordi Sirera, National Clinical Governance Lead at RMBI Care Co., says: “I am very proud of Emily. The application and assessment process to become a Queen’s Nurse is rigorous and requires clear commitment to improving care for residents, their families and carers. Being a Queen’s Nurse myself, I am aware this achievement demonstrates how dedicated she is in her role as Clinical Nurse Manager.

Thornhill House Care Home Achieves Veteran-Friendly Status

Thornhill House Care Home has been officially recognised as a Veteran Friendly Care Home, giving former members of the Armed Forces — along with their families and the wider community — access to enhanced support, understanding and signposting from a specially trained team.

The recognition follows Thornhill House meeting the nationally recognised standards of the Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF), an initiative designed to improve the quality of care and support for veterans living in care homes across England, while also tackling loneliness and improving health and wellbeing outcomes.

As part of the accreditation, staff at Thornhill House have completed specialist training to ensure Armed Forces service history is recognised, understood and reflected in care planning. The team is now equipped to offer informed guidance and signposting — not only for residents, but also for staff, families and members of the local community with military backgrounds.

Home Manager Christian Whiteley-Mason said the aim is for Thornhill House to become a trusted Veteran Friendly hub for the local area: “This recognition is about far more than a badge. It means residents, colleagues and people in the local community who have served — or are connected to someone who has — can approach a trained, understanding team for advice, support and direction. We want Thornhill House to be a place where veterans feel seen, respected and understood.”

PAGE 14 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Setting the Standard: Care Home Compliance Made Simple The law is changing for care homes, but understanding your obligations has never been easier Providing both comfort and dignity to those in your care is at the core of the Care homes profession, but when it comes to both residents and their families, one of the most important things you can offer is trust.

Moving to a care home can be an emotional time for some and transparency and fairness are key in reassuring prospective residents and their families that they will be cared for with compassion and respect - This, and compliance with the law.

Earlier this year we saw the introduction of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA) - a landmark piece of legislation that affects business and how they are required by law to safeguard their customer with fair trading practices. These changes may sound like legal jargon, but they directly impact how care homes operate, communicate, and contract with residents.

Compliance can be complex and that’s why the Business Companion Care Homes Guidance is essential reading for anyone working in the Care Homes sector. Written by legal experts this free and easy-to-read guide will walk you through all the steps to ensure you are safeguarding your customers and operating within the law.

WHAT’S CHANGED UNDER THE DMCCA? The introduction of the DMCCA represents one of the biggest shifts in consumer law in over a decade. It replaces the old Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations and introduces stricter rules to protect consumers from misleading or unfair practices across almost

all sectors. For care homes, this means: • Clearer Pricing and Transparency: The Act bans “drip pricing” which is when unavoidable fees are hidden until late in the process. Care homes must now present the full cost of services upfront, including any mandatory charges.

• Fake Reviews and Misleading Endorsements: The DMCCA prohibits the use of fabricated or manipulated reviews. With care homes increasingly relying on their online reputation, ensuring authenticity is now a legal obligation.

• Stronger Enforcement Powers: The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) can now impose fines of up to £300,000 - or 10% of global turnover - for breaches. Compliance isn’t optional; it’s critical.

• and much more!

These changes underline the importance of reviewing your policies, contracts, and marketing materials. The Care Homes Guidance on Business Companion provides practical steps to help you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes.

KEEPING CONSUMER VULNERABILITY IN MIND

Vulnerability can arise from a number of different situations and factors throughout a person’s life, such as age, health, bereavement, or financial stress. As someone working in the Care homes sector, you’re

dealing with vulnerable individuals on a daily basis and recognising these factors isn’t just good practice; it’s a legal and ethical responsibility.

The Business Companion Consumer Vulnerability Guide offers checklists and practical advice to help you identify and support your residents who may be vulnerable when it comes to things like decision making and communication, ensuring your care home delivers not only compliance but compassion.

Your Go-To Resource for Compliance Business Companion is more than just a care home resource - it’s a comprehensive hub for businesses across a broad range of sectors.

From selling online to handling complaints, delivery charges, and even net zero strategies, the platform covers hundreds of topics delivered to you through clear, easy-to-read guidance. Backed by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute and the Department for Business & Trade, Business Companion is free, authoritative, and regularly updated by legal experts.

Act Now The DMCCA is already in force, and enforcement powers are live.

Don’t wait for a compliance issue to arise - visit Business Companion’s Care Homes Guidance today. Review your contracts, pricing structures, and communication strategies and explore the wider resources available to future-proof your business against legal pitfalls.

In a sector built on trust, staying informed isn’t just smart - it’s essential.

To find out more, visit: www.businesscompanion.info

Iris Care Group Acquires Awelon Healthcare Iris Care Group has acquired Awelon Healthcare, expanding the group’s residential provision with two further specialist services.

Awelon Healthcare has provided high quality residential services in South Wales for adults with learning disabilities and complex needs for over 15 years.

Iris Care Group was established to deliver a fully integrated pathway of specialist services for people with complex care and support needs, bringing together specialist hospitals, nursing services, residential care, supported living and special educational needs provision across South West England and Wales.

With this acquisition, Iris Care Group strengthens its established residential care division, which already includes 19 services operating across South Wales and Bristol and South Gloucestershire, adding a further two residential services in Swansea and Llantwit Major.

The acquisition forms part of a wider growth plan for Iris Care Group. Since the group’s formation in 2023, Iris has built on its comprehensive range of specialist care pathways and expanded its geographic footprint.

This includes the acquisition of ALP Supported Living Services in 2025, supporting the development of four new supported living services across South Wales, the expansion of the residential care division into England with the opening of new services in Swindon, and continued investment in enhancing its specialist hospitals across England and Wales.

Dr Andy Jones, Chief Executive Officer at Iris Care Group, commented: “These developments further demonstrate our strategic focus to build a leading care group that delivers compassionate and specialist, integrated services for adults with the most complex needs. We remain committed to investing in our services, our environments and our people to ensure we provide the right care, in the right setting, at the right time.”

Kay Campbell, founder of Awelon Healthcare, said: “Since starting Awelon Healthcare in 2008, my mission was always to provide a high-quality residential care service. I am delighted that Iris Care Group will continue to maintain and provide an exceptional service.”

Anenta Urges Action To Protect Care And Nursing Home Staff From Dangers Of Hazardous Medical Waste A new academic report from the University of Oradea has placed a spotlight on the urgent need for the adoption of better prevention, training, and safer treatment technologies to reduce harm from the growing volume of healthcare waste produced worldwide, says leading independent healthcare waste management company, Anenta.

Shedding light on hazardous medical waste and its rising risks to clinical staff, healthcare workers, and those who handle medical waste, Anenta believes that the ‘Healthcare Waste Toxicity: From Human Exposure to Toxic Mechanisms and Management Strategies’ report is a sharp reminder that producers of healthcare waste need to be vigilant and diligent.

In Anenta’s view, this is particularly important in relation to the disposal of sharps, infectious, pharmaceutical, pathological, cytotoxic, and chemical waste, and applies to GPs, hospitals, laboratories, pharmacies, research centres, dental clinics, care and nursing homes.

“The findings of this study reiterate just how important segregation, governance, and training are in preventing harm to staff and the wider community,” said Kim Ormsby, Assistant Director at Anenta, adding: “It’s vital that every measure, including handling, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal is properly understood, implemented, and audited, which is exactly why we’ve created a free e-learning module on healthcare waste to help businesses in the primary care sector.”

Covering a number of topics such as waste segregation, simplification of waste processes, waste reduction, and colour-coded containment, the 45-minute training module is accessible free of charge to care homes, and healthcare professional via the Health Education England online portal. These courses help those in the primary care sector meet duty of care obligations and ensure consistent adherence to environmental and CQC standards.

This, in turn, helps smooth the pre-acceptance and duty of care audit process, which is essential for compliance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and helps avoid the risk of waste contractors refusing to make collections due to instances of ‘non-compliance.’

Aided further by Anenta’s remote hazardous waste audits, which give care homes, nursing homes and producers of healthcare waste the ability to conduct compulsory duty of care and pre-acceptance audits in

as little as 40 minutes, Anenta has removed the need for tedious third-party onsite audits, which can take up to 6 days. In addition to saving time, Anenta’s online solution also reduces costs by up to £800.

Combined, this process helps to ensure compliance for care homes whose staff are exposed to a range of different types of waste, including sharps, clinical, infectious, and offensive waste.

“Protecting workers and the wider community from the dangers of medical waste is critically important,” says Ormsby. “Without consistent training and clear policies, staff can all too easily be put at unnecessary risk, which is why we work closely with care and nursing homes to ensure that their waste management processes are streamlined and effective, ensuring a safer healthcare environment for all.”

Anenta, which was awarded the Healthcare Waste Management Company of the Year title at the prestigious Healthcare Business Review Europe Awards 2025, acts as an external contract manager delivering bespoke, affordable, and professional services across recycling, general waste, saniwaste, confidential, and clinical waste streams.

Managing over 450,000 collections annually from more than 20,000 locations, Anenta has saved its clients over £13 million directly, while introducing workplace efficiencies that have generated a further £35 million in savings.

Much of these savings are possible thanks to Vector, Anenta’s proprietary, multi-stakeholder system, which equips all parties in the healthcare waste supply chain with real-time updates on documentation, billing, compliance and outcomes. Highlighting inefficiencies and providing data-driven insights to improve service, delivery and operational performance, Vector ensures the delivery of fair billing practices through the analysis of thousands of invoices to identify and address any instances of overcharging.

Free training module: https://portal.e-lfh.org.uk/Component/Details/763177 Website www.anentawaste.com Contact page https://www.anentawaste.com/contact-us/ Call 03301222143

In a sector built on trust, staying informed isn’t just smart - it’s essential.

NEW Guidance for Care Homes for 2026

Business Companion is here to help you stay compliant, so you can focus on what you do best - caring for others.

With the introduction of new legislation, understanding your obligations is vital to safeguard your customers and protect your business.

Business Companion's free guidance for Care Homes is here to help with practical advice you can trust.

To find out more visit: www.BusinessCompanion.info

PAGE 16 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Setting Care Homes on the Road to Net Zero As sustainability rises up the agenda for care organisations, heat is a natural target for efficiency improvement. Andy Green, Head of Technical Solutions at Baxi, discusses the importance of planning a net zero pathway and some of the achievable options for care home operators The UK’s circa 17,000 care homes may vary in size and age, but reliable heating and hot water is essential in each to prioritise the wellbeing and comfort of their residents. As this service is typically the largest user of energy in care home facilities, it’s also a good starting point for reducing operating costs and associated carbon emissions.

Let’s consider some of the achievable measures to improve the efficiency of the heating system and reduce its carbon impact

PLOT YOUR PATHWAY In our recent survey of over 400 care homes managers, budget pressures, eligibility for funding and technical understanding of achievable options were the top challenges listed when considering decarbonising heat in their buildings. Subsequent focus group sessions also revealed that unplanned replacements are common, frequently resulting in a like-for-like distress purchase rather than enabling the care home operator to plan and implement a phased approach to net zero.

But with care homes coming under increased pressure to adopt sustainable practices in line with the nation’s wider 2050 net zero target, putting a roadmap in place is absolutely key. Fortunately, care home managers have access to heat experts like Baxi for support. We work closely with care homes first to understand the viable options for improved system efficiency and then to help them plot their unique net zero pathway.

REDUCE HEAT LOSSES The first step should always be to understand how and where energy is being used in the building.

Identifying and limiting any heat loss to the environment will not only immediately improve operating costs but can significantly reduce the size or capacity of plant required when refurbishing the system – which in turn will lower the required capital expenditure.

Practical examples might include building fabric upgrades such as roof and wall insulation, draught proof-

ing and/or improving the thermal performance of windows and doors. Adding lagging to poorly insulated pipework will also prevent heat losses within the system for improved performance.

Where necessary, adjust the heating controls and thermostat settings to optimise the temperature regimes and balance energy efficiency with thermal comfort.

‘HEAT PUMP READY’ Light refurbishment still accounts for much of the work in the care home sectors according to our focus group research, despite the willingness shown for embarking on heat decarbonisation projects.

If upgrading to more efficient gas condensing boilers or direct-fired water heaters, use this opportunity to prepare the heating system for the integration of low temperature heat pumps at a future stage.

Addressing the system’s distribution pipework and heat emitters will allow the system to operate more efficiently at a maximum flow temperature of 55°C (or lower), in line with Building Regulations. This will also allow the condensing boilers and water heaters to operate in condensing mode, where they achieve their maximum efficiencies.

FULLY ELECTRIC OR HYBRID? Replacing existing gas boilers or water heaters with heat pumps is the ultimate goal. New build care homes will be designed to require less heat for operational use and optimised for a decarbonised electricity grid. In buildings like these, a fully electric approach to heating and domestic hot water (DHW) based around renewable solutions such as our Auriga mid temperature and Auriga HP + high temperature heat pumps will be the favoured approach, particularly when combined with solar thermal and/or solar PV solutions.

In care homes with complex refurbishment challenges, a phased pathway may be necessary. In such buildings, a hybrid heat pump system combining heat pumps with existing boilers and/or water heaters is often a fast, affordable solution to partial decarbonisation. This will enable a large portion of the heat in the building to be decarbonised while meeting safe operation requirements.

MANUFACTURER SUPPORT Each care home project and building will have its own requirements, so it is advisable to consult with the experts. Experienced heating and hot water solutions providers like Baxi can help break down the complexities for care homes by clearly explaining the options and outlining the associated carbon, energy and cost impacts of each. Working together, we can help ensure that the right decision is made to meet the specific needs of your building to set it on its path to net zero.

For more information, visit: Baxi Commercial Heating and Hot Water Solutions www.baxi.co.uk/commercial

Bradwell Court Team Honoured With VFF Status The team and residents at Sanctuary Care’s Bradwell Court Residential Care Home in Congleton are celebrating after proudly achieving Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) status.

This prestigious accreditation recognises the home’s unwavering commitment to supporting the practical, emotional and social needs of those who have served in the armed forces.

As part of this dedication, the team, which currently cares for four veterans, has forged strong and lasting links with local armed forces groups, creating meaningful connections both within the home and across the wider community. Highlights have included a memorable visit from a serving paratrooper, as well as residents joining fellow veterans from Congleton and surrounding areas at community VE Day celebrations.

The home has also extended its support beyond its own walls, inviting veterans from neighbouring care homes to join events at Bradwell Court – creating lasting bonds through shared experiences.

Local organisations have played an important role too. Congleton Museum has visited the home with fascinating artefacts and personal testimonials, sparking conversations and reminiscence. The local Air Corps Cadets have

also taken part in intergenerational activities.

To ensure every veteran receives tailored support, the team discreetly places poppies outside the bedroom doors of residents who have served, helping visiting healthcare professionals recognise and honour their service.

Bradwell Court also has dedicated Veteran Champions, who have completed specialist training and now share their knowledge with colleagues to ensure the highest standards of care for veterans and their families.

The not-for-profit Sanctuary Care home manager Lorraine Colclough, who has a strong personal connection to the armed forces – her son is a serving paratrooper and her father served as an army nurse – said: “On behalf of our veterans at Bradwell Court, and for the veterans we hope to welcome in the future, we are enormously proud to have achieved VFF status.

“This accreditation isn’t just a badge for us – it reflects the heart of who we are. Many of our residents have given so much in service to their country, and it is our privilege to give something meaningful back.

“I am incredibly proud of my team for embracing this work with such passion. Their dedication ensures that our veterans receive not only exceptional care, but also the respect and recognition they so deeply deserve.”

Grand(e) Way To Address Scoliosis Support Meadow View Nursing Home in Chesterfield has found a grand(e) way to support a new resident with scoliosis- an innovative vacuum posture cushion.

The middle-aged client joined the home after a spell in hospital: underweight and fragile, she needed additional skeletal support and 1:1 care.

Meadow View- part of Emh Care & Support- could provide the high quality round-the-clock attention she required.

The home’s nurses responsible for the lady were struggling to find a way to keep her comfortable and safe in bed. They raised the issue with the home’s Occupational Therapist, who suggested AAT’s Grande mattress with Treat-Eezi cover.

Using vacuum technology, the mattress-sized beanbag can be contoured exactly by the staff exactly as needed, to provide the lady with a secure yet comfortable position without pressure points.

By using the vacuum principle, any air in the cushion is removed, thereby fixing the moulded shape and removing the need for frequent re-positioning.

The shape and firmness of the Grande can be adjusted as little or much as needed. The cushion can be precisely moulded to create abduction and adduction wedges, or an asymmetrical body position- all by the care-givers, within minutes(1). The addition of the Teat-Eezi overlay helps maintain blood flow and gives an extra layer of protection against the risk of ulcers.

Meadow View Manager Gillian Kent comments, “The Grande gives support to her overall body structure, yet is soft and comfortable. The team find it’s easy to reform when she is supine, so they can ensure her continued relief and security when she’s lying in her bed. It has really helped her overall daily and nightly relaxation.”

Find out more about AAT’s Grande vacuum posture cushions here: www.aatgb.com/grande

PAGE 18 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Poole Care Home Fulfils Resident’s Wish To See Her Father’s Artwork On Display A Poole care home resident’s wish came true when she saw her father’s artwork on display at a Bournemouth museum.

Myrna, who lives in Marjorie House in Lilliput, which is run by not-for-profit charity, Care South, visited the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum with four other residents and the care home team.

The visit was organised in response to Care South’s ‘Make a Wish’ initiative which encourages care home residents to share hobbies, passions and interests they once enjoyed but are now unable to pursue without the home’s support. The resident’s dedicated care home team then brings the wish to life.

Myrna and the other residents toured the museum before finding the water colour painting ‘The Darkened Bus Station’ by Eustace Nash, which focuses on the interior of the old Bournemouth bus station on Exeter Road.

A plaque next to the painting describes how the artwork was hung at the ‘War Artists and Bournemouth Arts Club’ exhibition in 1940, which was attended by 4,000 people despite limited opening and blackout regulations at the time.

At the end of her visit, Myrna spoke to the staff at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum about her father’s artwork. They kindly gave her a print of

the piece to take home with her to go on display at the home.

Myrna said: “It was lovely to visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum again, as it brought back many memories of my father. He was such a wonderful man. I am also very grateful to the team at Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum for gifting me a print of one of his most famous works as I didn’t previously have a copy of it to look at and enjoy.”

Georgie Powell, Home Manager at Marjorie House, said: “It was a pleasure for the team to enable Myrna to go and see her father’s artwork on display as part of our Make a Wish initiative. She has fond memories of watching him paint and bring these artworks to life so it was lovely for her to see that his talent lives on for everyone to enjoy.

At Marjorie House, we are keen to support our residents to reconnect with the people, places and things that matter most to them. We believe that every resident should live a fulfilling life full of the experiences that they enjoy.”

Fast-track Care Home Bathroom Upgrades: How Spring Grove Achieved Stylish Wet Room Refurbs in Just 1.5 Days Each When Spring Grove Care Home in Hampstead undertook a major wet room refurbishment programme, the challenge wasn’t just to modernise. It was to do so without disrupting the daily lives of residents. With 46 en-suite bathrooms to upgrade, traditional tile-based installation methods posed clear limitations: long downtime, specialist trades, and significant disruption.

Springdene Group, which operates the care home, turned to Multipanel, the UK’s leading bathroom wall panel brand. Its rapid-installation system enabled each bathroom to be completed in just 1.5 days. For care home operators and specifiers working in live environments, that turnaround is more than a number.

It is a strategic advantage.

THE INSTALLATION CHALLENGE IN LIVE CARE SETTINGS

Spring Grove is home to residents living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Routine and consistency are essential in this setting. In any live-in care environment, prolonged bathroom refurbishments can be distressing for residents and difficult to manage operationally.

The key to Springdene’s approach was finding a wall surface solution that delivered on performance, appearance and speed. Tiling was ruled out early in the process due to the disruption it causes. Long curing times, noisy wet trades and ongoing grout maintenance were all barriers to efficiency. In contrast, Multipanel’s wall panel system provided a fully waterproof, grout-free alternative that could be installed quickly by a team of multi-skilled tradespeople.

Each bathroom was completed in just 1.5 days from start to finish, allowing entire floors to be refurbished in a matter of weeks rather than months. This helped keep disruption to a minimum, allowing residents to stay in their rooms or return swiftly.

COMBINING SPEED WITH STYLE

For Springdene, speed was only one part of the equation. The visual appearance of the finished bathrooms also played a crucial role. The team was keen to avoid the clinical or institutional look often associated with healthcare environments. Instead, they wanted a modern, hotel-style aesthetic that felt calm, comfortable and familiar.

Multipanel’s tile-effect panels provided the perfect solution. With clean lines and smooth, gloss surfaces, the panels helped create stylish bathrooms that felt bright and contemporary. The result was a space that improved the daily experience of residents and supported a high standard of living.

“Mutipanel allows the care home to move away from an institutional aesthetic without compromising on hygiene or durability,” said Jamie Sandilands, Specification Sales Director at Grant Westfield, manufacturer of Multipanel.

“The installation speed surprised even experienced contractors on-site. Being able to complete each bathroom in just 1.5 days is a game-changer for care home refurbish-

ment projects.”

INCLUSIVE DESIGN AND LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE Beyond speed and style, the refurbishment also had to meet the requirements of inclusive design. Each bathroom needed to be safe and accessible for users with a range of mobility and cognitive needs.

Slip-resistant vinyl wet room flooring was combined with Multipanel’s waterproof wall panels to create level-access, easy-to-navigate spaces. The design meets both Lifetime Homes and accessibility standards, ensuring long-term safety and usability.

Multipanel panels also reduce long-term maintenance.

With no grout and a smooth surface, they are simple to clean and resistant to mould or moisture ingress. This minimises the time staff spend on repairs or deep cleaning, allowing them to focus on care delivery.

FROM TRIAL TO ROLL-OUT

The project began with a free trial bathroom installation, provided as part of Multipanel’s specification support. This included complimentary product supply, installation and on-site training led by a trained installer.

The trial gave Springdene the chance to evaluate the product in real conditions and train their trades team at the same time. Following its success, 12 rooms were refurbished, with a further 12 scheduled. The group is now planning similar upgrades across its other care homes, Springview in Enfield and Spring Lane in Haringey, covering nearly 120 rooms.

SUPPORTING SPECIFICATION GOALS

For architects, developers and specifiers working in healthcare, retirement living and supported housing, Spring Grove’s approach offers a proven model for fast, specification-led refurbishment.

Multipanel panels are five times quicker to install than traditional tiles. Their 30-year warranty, FSC certification and EPD credentials make them suitable for projects with performance, compliance and sustainability targets.

As the care sector continues to face rising demand and operational pressure, solutions that combine design, efficiency and compliance are increasingly important.

“The Spring Grove project is proof that you don’t have to compromise on aesthetics or performance to gain speed,” said Jamie Sandilands. “Our approach allows specifiers to deliver contemporary, durable bathrooms that work for everyone - residents, staff and operators alike.”

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF

Multipanel’s Free Trial Scheme allows care providers and specifiers to experience the installation, performance and support service first-hand before committing to a full rollout.

For more information, visit www.multipanel.co.uk or contact the specification team to discuss upcoming projects. 0131 290 286.

Building Confidence, Skills and Quality in Adult Care t2 group empowers care professionals through apprenticeships that drive quality, consistency, and retention.

Programmes: Our Care Apprenticeship programmes - for care professionals who deliver frontline support • Level 2 Health and Social Care Foundation • Level 2 Adult Care Worker • Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker • Level 4 Lead Practitioner in Adult Care • Level 5 Leader in Adult Care Our Leadership and Management Apprenticeship programmes - for those leading teams or

aspiring to move into management roles • Level 3 Leadership and Management • Level 5 Leadership and Management For over 25 years, we’ve partnered with care providers across England to help their teams grow through apprenticeships Invest in your people. Improve your care quality.

Scan the QR code to learn more.

PAGE 20 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Meallmore Gift to Age Scotland Meallmore provider of elderly and specialist care is kicking off 2026 with a charitable donation to Age Scotland.

Every December, a charity with importance to the organisation, its staff and its residents is chosen for a one-off donation. This year, Age Scotland was chosen by a panel of colleagues as the worthy recipient.

The cheque for £3,000 was presented to Age Scotland CEO, Katherine Crawford and Age Scotland Corporate Fundraiser, Siobhan Cameron at a special ceremony at Mearns House Care Home in Newton Mearns.

Residents, colleagues, and family members gathered for the event, while enjoying drinks and nibbles.

Cillian Hennessey, CEO of Meallmore, said: “We’re thrilled to be supporting Age Scotland this year, as it is a charity which – unsurprisingly –

is very close to all our hearts at Meallmore.

“Age Scotland provides vital services to older people, their families and carers, while also campaigning and influencing on the issues older people really care about. We’re proud to have a shared vision to ensure older people are valued and connected and have a good quality of life, and we know this donation will be put to excellent use.”

Katherine Crawford, CEO of Age Scotland said: “We are delighted to have been selected by Meallmore to receive this generous donation. This money will make a real and lasting difference to our work, ensuring that we can reach even more older people with information, advice and friendship through our lifeline services.

Thank you to all at Meallmore for this commitment to supporting our older population.”

Huddersfield Care Home Resident Enjoys Special Day At The Stables After Winning Staff Auction Prize A resident at HC-One’s The Denby Care Home in Huddersfield has enjoyed a memorable day out at a local stables after winning a special prize in a stafforganised auction.

Susan Armitage, a resident at The Denby, was the winning bidder for a “day at the stables” experience, which was donated by Care Assistant, Rachel Crossland. Rachel owns horses locally and also provides riding lessons, making the experience particularly special and personal.

The auction was organised by colleagues at The Denby, who generously donated their time and gifts for residents to bid on, creating a fun and meaningful way to give residents something to look forward to while strengthening relationships between staff and residents.

Susan spent the day at the stables near Denby Dale accompanied by Penny Duncan, The Denby’s Wellbeing Coordinator, along with a small group

of other residents. The visit proved to be a huge success, with Susan smiling throughout the day as she spent time with the horses.

Susan Armitage, resident at The Denby Care Home, said: “I’ve had a lovely day – the horses were beautiful.”

Penny Duncan, Wellbeing Coordinator at The Denby, said: “It was wonderful to see how happy Susan was throughout the visit. Experiences like this mean so much to our residents, and it was a pleasure to be able to support her on such a special day.”

Rachel Crossland, Care Assistant at The Denby Care Home who donated the prize, added: “It was really rewarding to be able to share something I love with Susan and the other residents.

Seeing how much she enjoyed the day made it all worthwhile.”

Care Inspections UK: Professional, Independent, and Comprehensive In today’s highly regulated health and social care environment, providers face the dual challenge of ensuring compliance while striving to deliver safe, high-quality, and commercially sustainable services. Care Inspections UK Limited (CiUK) has emerged as a trusted partner in this landscape, providing a professional and independent inspection service that goes beyond the standard requirements of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), The Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) and the Care Inspectorate (Scotland), collectively “The Inspectorates” What sets CiUK apart is its status as a registered inspection body, operating with the highest levels of professionalism and governance.

This official recognition imbues care providers with confidence that inspections are carried out with rigour, objectivity, and an unwavering focus on evidence. Every report is underpinned by validated, research-based methodology, ensuring the outcomes are credible, balanced, and practical.

BEYOND CQC/ CIW/ CI STANDARDS While CQC/ CIW/ CI inspections focus on fundamental areas such as safety, effectiveness, responsiveness, and leadership, CiUK’s approach extends further. Each CiUK inspection covers all the domains CQC/ CIW/ CI would expect, but also incorporates additional layers of analysis essential for continuous improvement. This Includes: • Operational risk management involves identifying risks before they become incidents, reducing exposure for service users and providers.

• Quality enhancement: Assessing opportunities to raise standards in care delivery, staff engagement, and governance.

• Commercial sustainability: Offering insight into how operational practices influence financial performance, helping providers balance compliance with business viability.

The result is an inspection report that is not only regulatory-ready but also a strategic tool for improvement.

A PROFESSIONAL AND INDEPENDENT EYE Professionalism is at the heart of CiUK’s ethos. Inspections are conducted by highly experienced professionals who bring frontline expertise from clinical, managerial, and governance roles in the care sector. This depth of knowledge allows CiUK to deliver meaningful feedback that resonates with staff at every level, from frontline carers to boardroom directors.

Independence is equally vital. As an external registered inspection body, CiUK reassures providers that its findings are unbiased and transparent. In a sector where credibility matters, this impartiality is invaluable in preparing for CQC inspections and demonstrating accountability to commissioners, investors, and the wider community.

DRIVING IMPROVEMENT AND REDUCING RISK

Care providers today operate in an environment of heightened scrutiny and rising expectations. CIUK’s inspections do more than highlight compliance gaps; they provide a clear roadmap for reducing risk, enhancing quality, and driving organisational improvement.

By identifying weaknesses early, providers can take corrective action before issues escalate. At the same time, CiUK’s focus on strengths and opportunities supports a culture of positive development. This balanced approach ensures that inspection outcomes are constructive, not punitive, fostering continuous organisational improvement.

SUPPORTING COMMERCIAL PERFORMANCE

One of the most overlooked aspects of care provision is its commercial dimension. Poor compliance and weak governance inevitably carry financial consequences, from reputational damage to contract loss. CiUK recognises this and integrates commercial insight into every inspection. CiUK helps providers achieve operational excellence and commercial resilience by aligning care quality with business performance.

THE CIUK DIFFERENCE

Choosing Care Inspections UK Limited means selecting a partner committed to professionalism, independence, and comprehensive excellence. CiUK inspections do more than prepare organisations for regulatory visits—they empower providers to deliver safer, higher-quality care while protecting their reputation and commercial future.

CiUK delivers evidence-based assurance and actionable insight for providers who want more than compliance.

Care Manager Celebrates 10 Years Of Service With Hickathrift House A Home General Manager at Hickathrift House Care Home in Marshland St. James, Wisbech has received a prestigious Ten-Year Service Award in celebration of working at Barchester Healthcare for the last decade.

Paula Melerski, now General Manager, started at Barchester in December 2015, prior to beginning her journey at the home, Paula was a registered nurse for 30 years, after visiting the home and falling in love with Hickathrift House she decided to become a Carer before becoming a Senior Carer, Head of Memory Lane, Home Deputy Manager before finally becoming the Home General Manager and has worked with residents and their relatives to ensure that their needs have been met over the years.

Adele Keenan, Employee Services Director at Barchester said: “I’m always pleased to hear stories about the long service of Barchester staff and am delighted Paula has achieved this milestone. It is dedication like this that ensures our residents are provided with a happy place to live.”

Sarah Sage, Deputy General Manager of Hickathrift House said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating ten years of loyal service with Paula.

She has demonstrated her dedication and loyalty to this home and its residents year after year. I speak for all of us here at Hickathrift House when I say that I’m looking forward to many more years of working with Hickathrift House!”

PAGE 22 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Delayed Discharge Costs NHS Scotland £440m A Year Thousands of medically fit patients remained in hospital beds for an additional 720,000 days during 2024-25 due to delayed discharge arrangements, according to healthcare regulators.

The problem, which results when patients ready to leave hospital cannot be transferred to appropriate care settings, reflects mounting strain across both health and social care systems, and affects people’s physical and mental health, and make it harder to admit others to hospital the regulators said.

These avoidable hospital stays are estimated to cost approximately £440 million annually, though the complete economic impact remains uncertain. Despite various initiatives aimed at addressing the crisis, limited assessment of their effectiveness means it is unclear which interventions are proving most successful or whether they represent good value for taxpayers.

A joint report by the Auditor General for Scotland and the Accounts Commission warns this has a significant effect, despite impacting only around three per cent of hospital patients.

The causes are complex, including rising demand for health and social care services, financial pressures, long-standing recruitment and retention problems across Scotland and for some, not having a Power of Attorney in place.

Reducing delayed discharges is a priority for the Scottish Government and their partners in health and social care, with significant activity underway to tackle this. But a lack of evaluation of initiatives across the country means it is difficult to measure what is having the greatest impact and whether these initiatives rep-

resent value for the money and time spent.

Stephen Boyle, Auditor General for Scotland, said: “Delayed discharges from hospital have far-reaching impacts on people’s health and well-being. The Scottish Government, health bodies, councils and other partner organisations agree on the need for major changes and are actively trying to reduce delayed discharges.

“Now they must improve how they collect, analyse and use data to evaluate the initiatives underway to tackle the problem. Without this, it’s impossible to understand the impacts and costs of delayed discharges and whether the initiatives across Scotland are improving lives, services and delivering value for money.”

Malcolm Bell, Member of the Accounts Commission said: “Significant change is critical across our health and social care services, shifting towards preventative care, greater use of technology and ongoing investment in the workforce. Without this, the care and support individuals need to leave hospital won’t always be available.”

Welcoming the report, geriatrician Professor Andrew Elder, president of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, said the long-standing problem has intensified: “Delayed discharges have existed in the NHS in Scotland for decades, pre-dating the current government’s tenure, but have become more visible in our acute hospitals as the capacity in ‘downstream’ non-acute NHS facilities has been progressively reduced.

The ageing of our population is a societal triumph, but our failure to provide integrated health and social care for that population risks turning that triumph into a disaster.”

AI in Residential Care: Promises and Pitfalls Artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday life and many residential care services are beginning to explore how it could support better care. When used responsibly, AI has the potential to reduce administrative pressure, give teams faster access to information and help staff make more informed decisions. But like any new technology, it requires careful planning, clear safeguards and open conversations with residents, families and colleagues.

At a recent roundtable hosted by Casson Consulting and the Access Group, care providers and digital specialists reflected on some of the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. The discussion echoed what we at Digital Care Hub hear from providers across the country.

There is enthusiasm about using AI to free up staff time, improve consistency and spot risks earlier. Practical examples include tools that help identify trends in care records, digital assistants that help staff find policies quickly and early exploration of companion technology that could complement activity programmes. As Hallmark Luxury Care Homes noted, the aim is not to replace staff but to support them with the right information at the right time .

Any use of AI in care relies on trust. Residential care is built on strong relationships, so residents, fami-

lies and staff must feel confident about why AI is being used and how their information is being protected. Katie Thorn, from Digital Care Hub and the Oxford Project: The Responsible Use of Generative AI in Care, highlights the importance of involving people at every stage. This includes explaining what a tool does, how decisions are made and how staff will continue to use their professional judgement.

A key theme from the roundtable, and from our wider work, is the need to recognise the limitations of AI. These systems can reflect the biases in the data they are trained on, so staff should be supported to question outputs rather than assume they are always correct. Good training, clear policies and safe channels for raising concerns are essential. Sharing examples where AI has not worked well is just as important as sharing successes. This helps the whole sector build confidence and avoid repeating mistakes.

Introducing AI into a residential care setting is not about rushing. It is about moving safely and purposefully. With the right digital foundations, strong governance and meaningful involvement of residents and colleagues, AI can become a valuable support for thoughtful, person-centred care.

For further information on Digital Care Hub and how they can help you, see the advert on page 37.

Can You Afford Not to Have a Mobii?

How technology-driven engagement is boosting morale, staff retention, and wellbeing in UK care homes.

In today’s social care environment, the pressures on providers have never been greater. Rising costs, recruitment uncertainty, and increasing expectations from families and the CQC are leaving many care homes stretched thin. Yet, amid these challenges, one innovation is quietly reshaping daily life for both staff and residents - the Mobii Interactive Projection System from OM Interactive.

Drawing on OM Interactive’s 2025 Nationwide Survey of care professionals, The Mobii in Care: Executive Insights 2025 reveals powerful evidence that interactive technology can do more than engage - it can rebuild morale, reduce workload, and help care teams deliver the quality of care they aspire to.

LIFTING MORALE AND STAFF RETENTION ACROSS CARE TEAMS

Care work is among the most rewarding professions, but it is also one of the most emotionally demanding. Many care teams report that introducing the Mobii has brought back a sense of joy, pride, and connection to their daily work.

“Staff feel able to offer a more meaningful experience for service users,” says Marion Hunt, Advanced OT/Sensory Lead at The Hatherton Centre, MPFT. That feeling matters - because it directly supports staff retention and resilience. When staff see residents light up with engagement, they’re reminded why they chose care in the first place.

Most managers surveyed said the Mobii has made a positive difference to staff workload, reducing stress and freeing up time to focus on genuine interaction. “It’s very easy to set up and use, which frees up the team’s time to spend more time engaging in a group activity,” shares Celia Milton, Activity Champion at Anchor’s Limegrove Care Home.

For carers, it’s not just about having a new tool - it’s about having something that makes their day feel easier, more purposeful, and more connected.

ENHANCING WELLBEING FOR RESIDENTS AND STAFF

The impact on residents is equally remarkable. An overwhelming 90% of care homes said the Mobii has enhanced wellbeing and engagement for both residents and staff. Through light, sound, and movement, it brings interactive experiences directly onto any surface - sparking laughter, movement, and conversation.

“The residents who would seem lethargic and unalert would be revived when the therapeutic games are played,” explains Carolyn Weisey, Activities Coordinator at St Annes Care Home.

Even residents living with advanced dementia have shown renewed participation. “Increased participation, especially from our residents living with more advanced dementia,” adds Celia Milton.

For many homes, this shared experience creates a calmer, happier environment - one where relationships thrive, and residents and carers alike feel more connected.

SUPPORTING CQC EXCELLENCE

In a sector where inspections and accountability are central, the Mobii also provides measurable support for achieving CQC excellence. Homes using the Mobii report improved outcomes within the “Caring” and “Responsive” categories - both areas where person-centred engagement is critical.

“It can be used for person-centred activities as there is something to suit all needs - and CQC love that,” says Colette Yuksel, Activities Coordinator at Stocks Hall Nursing Home Burscough.

This ability to provide inclusive, evidence-based engagement demonstrates a home’s commitment to meaningful care - something inspectors, families, and staff all value highly.

WHY THIS MATTERS NOW

With the upcoming Immigration Bill expected to limit access to overseas care workers, providers across the UK face mounting pressure to retain and support their teams. Recruitment challenges, rising agency costs, and burnout are creating a perfect storm - one that demands creative, proactive solutions.

The Mobii offers exactly that. It simplifies activity planning, empowers staff to deliver more meaningful sessions, and helps build a workplace culture centred on pride, teamwork, and connection.

As Katherine Huntley, Activities Lead at Dewdown House, puts it: “Staff love playing with this alongside the residents - it really helps with bonding.”

Real-World Results from UK Care Providers The survey findings speak for themselves: • 94% said the Mobii enables more quality time with residents.

• 89% saw improved mood and interaction.

• 81% reported enhanced wellbeing and engagement.

• 90% saw improved memory recall.

• 93% would recommend the Mobii to other care providers.

These numbers reflect what many care professionals already see every day - a calmer, happier, more connected environment where both residents and carers can thrive.

TECHNOLOGY WITH HEART

As social care continues to evolve, the most successful innovations will be those that combine practicality with compassion. The Mobii proves that technology doesn’t have to replace the human touch - it can enhance it, helping carers do what they do best: connect, comfort, and care.

For care providers looking to strengthen staff wellbeing, enrich residents’ lives, and demonstrate excellence to the CQC, the question isn’t whether they can afford to invest in engagement technology.

It’s whether they can afford not to.

For more information or to book a demo, visit omi.uk/care, call 01442 215555, or email care@omi.uk.

PAGE 24 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

Why Supporting Migrant Carers and Nurses is an Economic Imperative Oliver Kent-Braham, Co-Founder and CEO of Marshmallow (www.marshmallow.com) – a car insurance provider for newcomers to the UK – explores what is required to overcome the hidden financial challenges faced by the workforce that keeps the NHS and social care system running As this audience well knows, the UK’s health and social care system is under immense strain.

Chronic staff shortages, rising patient demand and stretched budgets have created a situation where services are under constant pressure.

The health and social services sector is the single largest employer of foreign-born workers in the UK. One in three care workers, and over a quarter of nurses in England, are born outside the UK. We all know that without them, the NHS and our care infrastructure would simply not function.

However, many of these workers still face barriers to financial inclusion that limit both their personal and professional potential. This is more than a workforce issue, it’s an economic one.

A SYSTEM UNDER STRAIN

The UK is already grappling with over 100,000 vacancies across health and social care. As a result, there are more delayed treatments, a growing patient backlog and an increasing reliance on agency staff, costing the NHS billions of pounds every year. At the same time, our population is ageing rapidly, with demand for carers and nurses only set to increase in the coming decades.

Against this backdrop, migrants are playing a vital role, particularly in this sector. These workers underpin our frontline services. They make sure patients receive care, hospitals can function and care homes can continue to operate.

As newcomers to the UK, migrants make a huge contribution. But while we depend on them, the UK’s financial system largely ignores them. We regularly hear from our customers that they are not given access to essentials like fair insurance, loans, or credit. This blocks them from being able to set up their lives, whether it’s driving to work, buying a car, renting a house, applying for a mortgage, or getting a phone. Time and time again, we hear: “Here, I faced a lot of challenges. It wasn’t that I wasn’t prepared, I was prepared, but the system made it difficult.”

And this isn’t because they are high-risk customers, but because financial providers in the UK do not take into account their credit or employment history from abroad. In practical terms, for example, this means a driver with 10 years’ of experience in their home country is treated as if they are a brand-new driver in the UK.

UNLOCKING THE WORKFORCE’S FULL POTENTIAL Supporting a modern day workforce means creating fit-for-purpose solutions that reflect differing circumstances. For example, insurers and lenders could recognise overseas financial histories and employment records, allowing migrant staff to access fair car insurance, home insurance and credit. Care employers could also provide guidance and support to navigate these systems, helping staff secure stability outside of work.

Getting this right benefits the UK’s health and social care system as a whole. A more financially secure workforce is less likely to leave, reducing reliance on costly agency staff, cutting recruitment pressures and keeping patients’ care consistent. In turn, this strengthens the NHS and care infrastructure while supporting the wider economy.

THE BARRIERS HOLDING US BACK

However, the challenges in the path are complex and deep-rooted. Outdated financial systems continue to lock people out. If you arrive from overseas, you may have a decades-long financial history, but in the UK, it can often be of little value. This creates a domino effect: without credit, it’s harder to rent or secure housing; without insurance, it’s harder to get a car; without a car, it’s harder to get to work.

Failing to address these barriers comes at a real economic and social cost. NHS staff shortages already run into billions annually, and as care needs grow, barriers faced by migrant workers to access fair financial services make it harder to fill the gap. Without technology and processes that recognise their histories and support their integration to life in the UK, workers struggle to settle, plan ahead and remain in their roles.

BUILDING A STRONGER FOUNDATION

The opportunity lies in setting this workforce up for success. That means tackling the hidden barriers to financial inclusion and ensuring migrant carers and nurses are fully integrated into systems that enable stability and growth.

Technology can play a key role in making this possible. Digital tools and data-driven solutions can assess financial risk more fairly. Recognising overseas employment and credit histories can provide accessible products such as car and home insurance, loans and credit-building support. Online platforms can streamline applications and reduce bureaucracy. They can also offer guidance tailored to the unique challenges migrant workers face, making it easier for them to settle, plan ahead and remain in their roles long term.

Giving access to fair financial services strengthens the workforce, reduces reliance on costly agency staff and ensures patients receive consistent, high-quality care. Supporting those who support us isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the foundation of a sustainable healthcare system and a resilient UK economy. If we want a care and health system fit for the future, we need to start by giving the people at its heart the support they need to build secure lives here in the UK. For more information or to secure a quote please visit www.marshmallow.com

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 25

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Adaptations Budgets Optimised with Extended Recycling Capability Home adaptations teams have a unique tool to help expediate fast, efficient aids to help people be safe at home.

The number of, and wait time for, adaptations continues to grow, with stairs being the second most common hazard in the home. In conjunction with Occupational Therapists, AAT has developed its Universal Seat System for its brand-leading S-Max Sella stairclimber.

The combination amplifies adaptations teams’ ability to optimise use of budgets- usually without even requiring DFG funding- to deliver a safe stairway transfer solution within days, by recycling (re-issuing) the equipment.

The S-Max Sella provides a safe stair transfer solution in 99+% of cases which AAT assesses. The portable Class 1 Medical device certified kit requires no installation nor structural alteration to the home. The addition of the Universal Seat System means the Sella can be easily set up to ensure almost every potential user is safe and supported when using the Sella, irrespective of their physical and/or mental impairment. It is achieved without the need to purchase extra accessories. No other stairway transfer system offers such flexibility.

As part of the offering, AAT will also support the adaptation team in the assessment process, to ensure the relevance of the solution for the person, the occupation and the environment, and personally train the carer in the Sella’s safe operation.

“We have numerous examples of community equipment services (eg Nottinghamshire & Nottingham City) now buying not just additional Sella stairclimbers, but Universal Seat Systems, to have in equipment stores ready to go, so they can quickly deliver a solution for a client,” says Peter Wingrave, AAT Director.

“Even if it is a short-term solution whilst a larger and/or more permanent adaptation is undertaken, our Sella/Universal Seat System and re-issue capability gives a highly costeffective and fast way to manage the potential risk of someone falling on the stairs: a genuine adaptation without delay.”

Full details of the Sella and Universal Seat System can be found on AAT’s website @ https://www.aatgb.com/s-max-sella/, where adaptations teams can also book a free, no obligation client assessment or team demonstration session.

Smart and Stylish: Consort’s PLSTiE Panel HipSaver Soft Hip Protectors Safe, Fan Heaters for Modern Care Environments

HipSaver Soft Hip Protectors protect the elderly and disabled people from fall-related hip fractures.

Designed to protect elderly people from fall related hip fractures, HipSavers are a leading brand of soft hip protectors. Used in the NHS since 2002, HipSaver Soft Hip Protectors are user friendly, affordable and costeffective personal protective garments.

Soft, comfortable, effective and compatible with incontinence protection, HipSaver Soft Hip Protectors are perfect for use in care homes and by elderly people living independently.

HipSavers should be worn day and night for 24 hour protection and especially during physical and recreational activities, when accidental falls, slips and trips can lead to hip fractures.

Available as comfortable underwear or long casual pants in several sizes for men and women, HipSavers feature soft protective airPads permanently sewn into the garments over the hip areas prone to injuries and fractures.

HipSaver TailBone models have an additional protective airPad over the coccyx on lower back for protection during swaying, accidental knocks, bumps and backward falling.

Machine washable at high temperature and tumble drier friendly, HipSavers are practical, hygienic and durable.

HipSaver Soft Hip Protectors - affordable protective garments for the elderly and disabled people!

For more information, contact Win Health Medical Ltd - 01835 864866 - www.win-health.com See the advert on page 3 for further products.

Consort’s PLSTiE range of Low Surface Temperature (LST) fan heaters offers a safe, efficient, and modern heating solution. They are designed for environments where safety and comfort are paramount.

With a maximum surface temperature of 43°C, these heaters adhere to the NHS Estates Health Guidance Notes standards, making them suitable for use in hospitals, care homes, schools, and nurseries.

The PLSTiE heaters are equipped with features such as intelligent fan control, open-window detection, and quiet operation, all of which contribute to

energy efficiency and comfort.

Slim and splash-proof (IP24), they combine safety, performance, and flexible installation for various interiors. The PLSTiE WiFi models connect directly to the Consort Connect app, allowing remote control, scheduling, and energy monitoring. BIM downloads for the PLSTiE range are available on the Consort website and NBS Source for specification convenience.

01646 692172 | sales@consortepl.com | www.consortepl.com See the advert on page 4 for further information.

Angloplas Dispensers Help Reduce Blue Rain Activity Store the Risk of Cross Infection At Blue Rain, our mission is simple: to provide everyday activity products that spark joy and enrich lives — whether for those who need a little extra support, a burst of motivation, or simply a reason to have fun.

We take pride in listening to our customers, understanding what truly matters to them, and sourcing or creating products that meet those needs perfectly. Many of our items are available as ready-to-go activity kits and bundles — complete with everything you need — so

you can skip the preparation and focus on the joy of the moment.

As Blue Rain Activity Store continues to grow, our heart remains the same: creating meaningful moments of happiness, connection, and creativity for people of all ages and abilities.

From rainy-day craft sessions to sunny outdoor adventures — or simply time spent together — we’re here to make every experience easy, special, and unforgettable.

See the advert on page 6 for further information.

Repose Furniture Specialist Seating Solutions Repose Furniture is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of bespoke seating solutions, with a reputation built on craftsmanship, innovation, and a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for its customers. Established in 1999 and based in the West Midlands, the company has grown from a small family business into a trusted supplier to both the domestic and healthcare markets. Every chair produced by Repose is handmade in the UK, with an emphasis on quality, durability, and comfort, ensuring that each product meets the specific needs of its user.

Whether for home use or demanding healthcare environments, Repose combines skilled upholstery techniques with modern engineering to create chairs that provide postural support, pressure management, and ease of use.

Their wide product portfolio includes rise and recline chairs, hospital and care home seating, bariatric solutions, and specialist products designed to address particular medical and lifestyle needs. An essential element of their offering is flexibility: customers can choose from a range of back styles, seat cushions, mechanisms, and fabrics, allowing each chair to be tailored to the individual. Interchangeable parts mean that a chair can adapt as a user’s requirements change, extending the product’s longevity and ensuring value for money.

The healthcare sector is a particular area of expertise for Repose. They strive to design chairs that balance comfort with clinical functionality. Features such as tilt-in-space mechanisms, adjustable cushioning, and pressure relief options make their healthcare seating particularly suited to long-term use in hospitals, hospices, and

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 page 4.

Serve in Style with Euroservice

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.

See the advert on page 9 for further information.

care homes. The company’s bariatric range demonstrates the same careful attention to detail, offering robust yet comfortable solutions for larger users.

While customisation is the centre of the Repose offering, they also recognise the urgency often faced in healthcare settings. To address this, Repose have developed their Healthcare Express Chairs, designed to deliver high-quality healthcare seating at speed. The models in this range can be despatched within just five working days. The Multi Bari Express and bestselling Boston Express, for example, are available on this five-day lead time, offering care providers a rapid solution without sacrificing quality or functionality. For less specialist needs, some homecare models are even available on faster turnaround times, demonstrating Repose’s ability to balance responsiveness with craftsmanship.

Repose’s reputation is further reinforced by its after-sales support, 5-year manufacturing warranty, and commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. With a UK-based factory, a dedicated distribution network, and close relationships with healthcare professionals, the company continues to be a trusted partner in multiple sectors throughout the country and beyond.

In combining bespoke design with reliable express options, Repose Furniture stands out as a manufacturer that truly understands the diverse needs of its customers. For over 25 years, it has delivered not just chairs, but comfort, dignity and independence — values that remain at the core of everything it does.

For further information, see the advert on page 25 or visit www.reposefurniture.co.uk

PAGE 26 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

CATERING FOR CARE Guarding Against Malnutrition in Care Homes: Spotting Early Signs and Using Nutrition to Combat Frailty

By Zoe Cottrell, registered dietitian, member of the British Dietetic Association and registered with the Health and Care Professions Council Malnutrition remains a significant issue in care homes, where the elderly are particularly vulnerable. As a registered dietitian working in the community and in hospital wards, often with elderly people who have experienced fall, I wish more people knew about the prevalence of malnutrition and how to combat it before they ended up in hospital.

Recent statistics paint a stark picture: Around one in 10 people over the age of 65 are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition , and this figure rises alarmingly to 45% among those in their 90s. According to the British Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (BAPEN) , malnutrition costs the UK approximately £23.5 billion annually, with older adults being disproportionately affected.

As the population ages, addressing malnutrition and its associated complications, such as frailty and sarcopenia, becomes ever more critical. By focusing on early detection and strategic nutritional interventions, including the use of protein, care homes can play a vital role in safeguarding the health of their residents.

®

ProSauce : The Future of Gravy In the world of care catering, gravy is often an after though – adding some flavour and moisture to food but it can be nutritionally empty. At ProSauce, gravy is the starting point for a quiet revolution.

ProSauce Gravy is more than a condiment. It’s a nutrient-rich, flavourforward solution designed to meet the complex needs of care homes and hospitals. Developed by Stella West-Harling MBE, in conjunction with dietitians from the NHS and top UK universities, the gravy reflects lived experience and professional insight: meals should provide good nutrition and flavour, whilst being cost-effective.

Crafted for operational ease, ProSauce Gravy is shelf-stable, easy to portion, and compatible with diverse dietary needs. It delivers 12g of plant-based protein per serving, whilst being gluten-free and nutrient dense. Whether served in or over meat, or plant-based dishes, it

SPOTTING THE EARLY SIGNS OF MALNUTRITION The first step in combating malnutrition is recognizing its early signs. The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) is a valuable resource for this purpose, enabling caregivers to systematically assess the risk of malnutrition in residents by considering factors such as Body Mass Index (BMI), unintentional weight loss, and the impact of acute illness on nutritional intake.

KEY EARLY SIGNS TO MONITOR: 1. Unintentional Weight Loss: A significant early indicator of malnutrition is unintentional weight loss. Regularly monitoring residents' weight and comparing it to previous measurements is essential. A loss of even 5% of body weight over a few months can signal malnutrition and warrants immediate attention.

2. Decreased Appetite: A reduced appetite is often a precursor to malnutrition. Residents may skip meals, eat smaller portions, or show a lack of interest in food. It's important to understand the reasons behind these changes, which could be linked to dental issues, depression, or medication side effects.

3. Physical Changes: Signs such as muscle wasting, thinning hair, dry skin, or dental problems may indicate nutritional deficiencies. These physical symptoms are often subtle but crucial indicators of potential malnutrition.

4. Fatigue and Weakness: Increased tiredness or difficulty performing daily activities can be related to inadequate nutrition. This could also signal the onset of sarcopenia, where the loss of muscle mass and strength makes everyday tasks increasingly challenging.

(CONTINUED ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE...) makes supporting nutritional goals easy in a way that is familiar to the diners.

Early adopters are using ProSauce in care homes and hospices with feedback highlighting ease of use for kitchen staff and it’s cost effectiveness. With the additional protein in the gravy, chefs can use less meat in meals to reach the same nutritional standards, which in turn saves costs and improves the stainability credentials of the kitchen.

In a sector defined by improving health and care, whilst managing increasing costs, ProSauce Gravy offers possibility. It’s a small change with big impact: maintaining flavour, supporting health, and reminding us that every meal is an opportunity to care.

Visit the ProSauce website to order your free 20 portion sample box and experience how ProSauce Gravy can help transform mealtimes in care settings. www.prosauce.co.uk

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 27

CATERING FOR CARE Guarding Against Malnutrition in Care Homes: Spotting Early Signs and Using Nutrition to Combat Frailty (CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE) THE ROLE OF NUTRITION IN PREVENTING AND MANAGING FRAILTY Frailty, a condition characterized by decreased strength, endurance, and physiological function, is closely linked to malnutrition and is a major concern in care homes. Proper nutrition is key to preventing and managing frailty, particularly through the adequate intake of protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and function.

STRATEGIES FOR NUTRITIONAL INTERVENTIONS:

1. Prioritize Whole Foods: Ensuring a diet rich in whole foods is foundational. Protein-rich foods like eggs, lean meats, fish, dairy products, and legumes should be emphasized, as they not only support muscle health but also provide essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall well-being.

2.Incorporate Protein Supplements When Necessary: In cases where residents struggle to meet their protein needs through diet alone—perhaps due to a lack of appetite or difficulty chewing—protein powders or fortified drinks can be effective. These supplements can be easily added to meals, snacks, or beverages, ensuring that residents receive the protein they need without overwhelming them with large portions of food.

3.Distribute Protein Throughout the Day: Research shows that distributing protein intake evenly across all meals is more effective for muscle protein synthesis than consuming large amounts at a single meal.

Caregivers should ensure that residents receive adequate protein at breakfast, lunch, and dinner to maximize the benefits for muscle maintenance and frailty prevention.

ADDRESSING BARRIERS TO ADEQUATE NUTRITION While boosting protein intake is essential, we should also address the barriers that may prevent residents from consuming enough nutrients. Factors such as taste preferences, difficulties with swallowing, or digestive issues can all impact nutritional intake. Caregivers should work closely with dietitians to develop personalized nutrition plans that accommodate these challenges, potentially incorporating protein powders and other supplements in palatable and easy-to-digest forms.

NUTRITION IS KEY TO INCREASING HEALTHSPAN Malnutrition in care homes is a pressing issue that requires vigilant monitoring and proactive management. While the numbers alone tell us the stakes are high, intervention is more than about reducing costs.

The ability to stand up from a chair unaided allows our elderly residents independence. By spotting the early signs of malnutrition and implementing strategic nutritional interventions, caregivers can help prevent and manage frailty, significantly improving the quality of life for residents. By addressing malnutrition and frailty head-on, care homes can help residents not only avoid the adverse effects of these conditions but also thrive in their later years.

A New Approach to Nutrition Support in NHS Care Homes Disease-related malnutrition remains one of the most persistent challenges in UK residential and nursing care. It affects millions, increases vulnerability to illness, slows recovery, drives hospital admissions, and places strain on already stretched care teams. Yet despite the scale of the problem, the tools available to homes have not kept pace with the needs of increasingly complex residents.

Hiquid Food, a Norwegian medical nutrition company, is entering the UK market with a clear mission: to make effective nutritional support simpler, more acceptable for residents, and easier for staff to deliver.

Simple, seamless meal enrichment Many residents struggle to consume enough calories and protein, even with carefully prepared meals. Hiquid Food’s freeze-dried powders, made from organic whole foods, allow caregivers to enrich everyday dishes like porridge, soups, puddings, purees, and drinks. This discreet approach reduces refusals and preserves dignity, helping residents receive the nutrition they need through meals they already enjoy.

ORAL NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS WITH HIGH ACCEPTANCE

For individuals at greater nutritional risk, Hiquid Food offers compact, nutrient-dense oral nutritional supplements designed for those with low appetite or increased medical demands. They are easy to con-

sume, well tolerated, and provide balanced support in small volumes.

WHOLE FOOD GASTROSTOMY NUTRITION

For residents requiring enteral feeding, Hiquid Food’s whole-food gastrostomy products offer a gentle, reliable option created with a focus on tolerance, safety, and long-term stability.

Better outcomes and operational efficiency Care providers face rising acuity and workforce pressure. Hiquid Food products reduce complexity through easy mixing, no additives, and no large volumes while supporting improved resident strength, immunity, and recovery.

Better nutritional status means improved wellbeing and lower overall care costs. With long shelf-life, low weight, and high versatility, the products are also environmentally responsible and easily integrated into a wide variety of meals.

As Hiquid Food launches in the UK through Food Untethered, they look forward to working closely with care homes, clinicians, and NHS commissioners to strengthen nutritional care in a practical, resident-centred way.

For more information: contact@fooduntethered.com See the advert below for further information.

PAGE 28 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

TECHNOLOGY AND NURSE CALL SyndoraAlto Sets a New Standard for Connected Care Technology Care homes across the UK are transforming how they deliver care thanks to

For care providers not yet ready to replace their existing nurse call system,

SyndoraAlto, the newly rebranded name behind CHARIS, the UK’s most advanced digi-

AltoEnhance offers the perfect first step into digital care.

tal nurse call system.

Available from just £129.00 per month, AltoEnhance seamlessly connects to your

Fully supplied, installed, and maintained from just £6.40 per bed, per month, CHARIS

current nurse call system, bringing digital reporting, mobile alerts, and actionable

delivers smarter, safer, and more connected care through real-time alerts, mobile inte-

insights without the need for a full system upgrade.

gration, and intuitive smart displays that help staff respond faster when residents need

“Technology should make care easier, not harder,” says Louis Johnson, Managing

them most.

Director. “CHARIS and AltoEnhance connect people, information, and action empower-

Every CHARIS system comes fully inclusive with 15” smart displays, help buttons, pull

ing care teams to deliver truly person-centred care.”

cords, guaranteed radio coverage, and 24/7 UK technical support, all backed by

Meet the team & learn more at www.syndoraalto.com See the advert on the front cover for more information.

SyndoraAlto’s trusted installation and maintenance team.

Alarm Radio Monitoring - Wireless Nurse Call & Staff Alarm Systems Alarm Radio Monitoring is the market leader in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke, end-to-end, wireless alarm systems and solutions for the healthcare, leisure, custodial and education industries.

We have been providing wireless alarm and nurse call systems for over 30 years.

Supplying care homes and hospitals with an essential lifeline that supports the delivery of outstanding care.

We believe in excellence which translates into: Advanced Technology Industry-leading wireless alarm technologies and software Bespoke Solutions We design systems to your needs rather than your team having to work around

the system Innovative Design Pushing boundaries with the reliability that comes from decades in the industry Flexible Finance Options Ensuring organisations of any size can provide safety for their staff and clients 24 Hours a Day, 365 Days a Year Service Your ARM service team is on hand, on the phone, on-site or return to base, whether you have a service contract or not For further information, see the advert below or visit www.arm.uk.com

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 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 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.

(CONTINUED ON FOLLOWING PAGE...)

Wireless Nurse Call & Staff Alarm Systems Data Analysis software provides a full audit trail of events The all-new call logging software from ARM enhances the functionality of your care call system dramatically.

• It can help you track the quality of your service to your residents.

• It can help you demonstrate compliance with your aims and best practices, both to relatives and to authorities.

• It can help you find bottlenecks in service provision, track staffing requirements, and allow you to ensure staff are meeting expectations.

• Most importantly, it provides assurance that you know and can demonstrate what is happening in your care home.

The wireless ARM Nurse Call system has been developed over 30 years with both the client and user in mind.

It enables staff to efficiently answer calls, making the

management of resources more flexible and provides the functionality you would expect of any nurse call system.

Call messages can be sent direct to staff to speed up response times and can also be integrated to work with smart phones & messaging.

The system is quick and easy to install and works wirelessly, using radio communication between both the call points and the system infrastructure.

Phone: 01568 610016 | Email: sales@arm.uk.com | Website: www.arm.uk.com

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 29

TECHNOLOGY AND NURSE CALL 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 future-proof their operations.

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

Innovative Fall Prevention Solutions by Medpage (CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE) 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.

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

PLEASE MENTION THE CARER WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTISERS

PAGE 30 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

TECHNOLOGY AND NURSE CALL Training, Routine & Flexibility: 3 Ways To Keep Gen Z Workers Young people only make up 11% of care workers. When they’re the ones to pick up the mantles left by 25% of the workforce likely retiring within the next 10 years… it isn’t the most comforting news, especially when the care sector is already stretched so thinly.

We’ve previously discussed how you can attract the under-25s. But it isn’t just about recruiting young care workers. It’s about keeping them, too.

Care can already be an overwhelming career. So, imagine what it’s like when you’re first experiencing it. A lot of young care workers are dropped into the deep end, especially if it’s their first job in the industry.

Combine this with irregular, unsociable hours, and you have a recipe for burnout.

So, what can you do to keep Gen Z in the care sector?

First: training.

Despite qualifications, jumping into the real thing is something new entirely.

Plus, since the typical care worker in the UK is aged 45, many vacancies are likely to be filled by those with extensive backgrounds in care. It’s possible, then, that more in-depth training could slip through the cracks for new carers.

It’s easy to get swept up in the waves of care’s responsibilities, whether you’re used to it or not. Offering new hires more in-depth training, ongoing support, and perhaps even a mentor can help them stay afloat amongst the workload.

Next: regular shifts and flexibility.

You may think routine and flexibility contradict each other, but they actually go hand-in-hand.

Burnout in shift work largely stems from poor work-life balance, resulting from staff having little to no control over when they work. Short notice of shifts, combined with irregular and unpredictable ones, leaves workers with a life revolving around work. Even for the biggest workaholics, having no time for a personal life doesn’t make for a healthy one.

Providing enough notice for shifts allows your team to plan around them.

Offering rotating schedules and shift patterns also makes hours more predictable, meaning staff can plan even further in advance. (It’s easier for you, too!)

Things come up. Life happens. Ruling your rota with an iron fist gets you nowhere – apart from having unhappy staff.

Flexibility is often misconstrued as spontaneity, but it instead gives staff a voice. Allowing staff to set availability and arrange shift swaps immediately gives them that control they were missing.

You’ll agree that when you aren’t burned out or struggling with poor mental health, you’re better at, well, everything. You’re more productive, more motivated, and you care a lot more about what you’re doing.

This is what Gen Z prioritises. For that, they’re given a bad reputation – just like care gets a bad reputation for a poor work-life balance. But that doesn’t mean the two can’t work together.

By embracing what Gen Z prioritises, you’re not only attracting young care workers, but you keep them.

Decades down the line, who knows, maybe they’ll be the ones retiring and passing the mantle down to their younger counterparts. www.rotacloud.com

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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 Pager

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.

www.rotacloud.com

PAGE 32 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

TECHNOLOGY AND NURSE CALL From Survival To Stability: Why Financial Health Is Key To Social Care’s Future Fran Kirke, VP of Care at OneAdvanced, discusses how financial pressures continue to challenge social care providers.

Every day, care organisations are working tirelessly to deliver essential support in the face of growing needs and rising costs. However, too many providers are stuck balancing tight budgets, having ‘just enough’ to stay afloat. The hard truth is, just enough isn’t enough—not for the providers, not for the employees, and certainly not for the clients who depend on them.

Rising operational costs—from wages and the Fair Pay Agreement to energy bills—compound historic underfunding and financial pressures. And demand for care continues to increase, creating a widening gap that organisations are often forced to fill with limited resources.

Providers then end up in survival mode, unable to invest in improving their services for today and the future.

ty support often comes with layers of red tape. Managing aged debt and resolving invoicing errors take a significant amount of time that few organisations can spare. Regulation and compliance require meticulous reporting, and the sheer volume of admin work to manage all these leaves teams stretched thin.

At the same time, there’s an expectation for providers to keep doing more. But without the right tools and systems in place, these compounded financial struggles threaten to overwhelm this indispensable sector.

PAVING A SUSTAINABLE WAY FORWARD Social care providers aren’t just keeping their organisations alive; they’re safeguarding the wellbeing of countless individuals and families.

THE NEED TO RETHINK FINANCIAL STABILITY

Providers need to be able to prioritise long-term financial resilience. And

Care providers need to have healthy finances in social care, and that doesn’t come at odds with delivering compassionate care.

A financially strong organisation has the breathing room to improve services, retain employees, and innovate to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people they support. And having this financial security means providers can actually plan for the future rather than constantly reacting to the present.

part of this means having the tools—including robust financial management softwaresimplify manual processes, optimise resources, and reduce inefficiencies.

By championing financial sustainability, we’re creating conditions where employees can thrive, where clients receive the quality of care they deserve, and where the sector can confidently meet future challenges.

BENEATH THE SURFACE

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

Social care organisations face a web of financial intricacies. Local authori-

See the advert on the back cover of this issue.

From Chaos to Clarity. Why Connected Care Software Matters For many care managers, a normal day looks like organised chaos.

You start with care planning, then switch into scheduling. Finance needs attention. A medication update comes through. Audits are approaching. Each task lives in a different place. Another login. Another spreadsheet. Another hour lost.

It is no surprise that so many feel stretched too thin.

The challenge is not the work itself. Care managers are experts at ensuring people receive safe, person centred care. The problem is that many tools in use today simply have not kept up with the demands of modern care.

Too often, care teams are asked to work across platforms that don’t speak to each other. Notes get duplicated. Information gets missed. Important changes take too long to reach the right person. This creates stress for managers and their teams. It also creates risk.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

When information flows through one connected system, everything becomes clearer. There is one place to update, one record for the whole team to rely on, one view of the care being delivered across every visit or shift. Tasks that once took hours can be completed in minutes. Insights that once required detective work become visible instantly.

Celebrating 10 years of Innovation, Trust, and Quality everylifetechnologies.com/pass

EveryLIFE_Technologies_Print Ad_10 Years_The Carer_274x170mm.indd 1

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This is why more providers are turning to all-in-one care management platforms like PASS. With care planning, rostering, eMAR and finance in the same system, teams stay aligned and up to date. Real time records help reduce errors and support smoother inspections. Smart automation removes manual admin and frees up more time for face-to-face care.

AI also plays a role. Not by replacing clinical judgement, but by helping care teams stay ahead of change. If something looks different in a note, or if patterns in data suggest a growing risk, the system can highlight it quickly for a manager to review.

Technology becomes a helpful assistant, while care professionals remain firmly in control.

Over 1,200 services across the UK are already benefiting from this clearer, more connected way of working. Many report stronger communication, improved compliance, and calmer days as a result.

Care will always be complex. People have unique needs. Things change. But systems that support care don’t need to add to the chaos. When everything comes together in one place, focus can return to what matters most. Delivering outstanding care, every day.

Learn more at www.everylifetechnologies.com

R 10 Y E A R S

hello@everylifetechnologies.com

Join us for the next 10 years!

Let’s succeed together 14/10/2024 10:27

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 33

TRAINING & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Cyber Security in Social Care: Why Resilience Matters More Than Ever As cyber threats continue to rise across the UK, adult social care finds itself increasingly targeted. Phishing, credential theft, ransomware and supply-chain attacks now routinely affect small and medium providers, many of whom lack the internal infrastructure to respond. What was once an “IT issue” has become a board-level risk, capable of disrupting care delivery, compromising sensitive data, and jeopardising business continuity.

Against this backdrop, the sector has made remarkable progress. Five years ago, only 13 percent of social care providers had completed the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT). Today, that figure has risen to more than 75 percent. This shift shows a growing recognition that cyber security isn’t optional – it is foundational to safe, high-quality care.

At Digital Care Hub, we’ve learned that providers don’t struggle with willingness; they struggle with capacity. Many care organisations simply don’t have the time or expertise to produce robust cyber and data protection policies from scratch. That’s why one of the most transformative tools we’ve developed has been our Data Policy Builder. It allows providers to create clear, compliant, tailored policies, giving them a practical starting point for good governance and DSPT completion. For many services, it’s the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling in control.

But compliance is only the beginning. The next challenge for the sector is building true cyber resilience – moving from “ticking the box” to embedding safe digital practice into everyday operations. That means regular staff training, clear incident response plans, secure access controls, and awareness of evolving scams and threats. It also means understanding your digital supply chain and ensuring partners meet appropriate standards.

The renewed government funding for Better Security, Better Care through to 2029 signals a long-term commitment to these priorities. It will support new voluntary cyber and data health checks, help providers navigate upcoming DSPT enhancements, and strengthen local support networks that have been vital in driving progress so far.

But ultimately, resilience will be built provider by provider, through small, consistent improvements: policies that are actually used, staff who know what to do when something looks suspicious, and leaders who recognise that cyber security is now as essential to safe care as medication management or safeguarding.

Social care has already proven how quickly it can rise to a digital challenge. The next four years offer an opportunity to turn that momentum into lasting, sector-wide confidence.

For further information please visit https://digitalcarehub.co.uk/cyber-security

Rethinking Restrictive Practices: Improving Care Through Education Restrictive practices such as physical restraint, bed rails, or lap belts remain one of the most challenging aspects of health and social care. Intended to keep patients safe, they can also cause harm, distress, and loss of dignity when used unnecessarily. Across the UK, the principle is clear: care must always use the least restrictive option.

Legislation provides the framework, but culture and staff behaviour shape daily practice. Nurses, carers, and clinicians often make quick decisions balancing safety with autonomy. Without training, restrictive practices risk becoming routine. To change this, staff need better understanding of the human impact and confidence to use alternatives.

That’s where Restrictive Practice makes a difference. Developed through codesign workshops with patients and carers, this gamified e-resource gives a voice to those most affected by restraint. Their lived experiences shaped the learning, helping staff see restraint

not as a neutral safety tool, but often as something frightening or disempowering.

The results are powerful. Staff trained with the resource led Quality Improvement projects, achieving measurable reductions: - Bed rails dropped from 360 to 277 incidents - Bed bumpers from 303 to 227 - Lap belt use halved, from 46 to 22 These improvements represent safer, more compassionate care and reassurance for families.

Restrictive practices may never disappear entirely, but they should be the exception, not the rule. With the right knowledge and tools, staff can choose safer alternatives and build a culture of dignity, compassion, and respect across UK care services.

See our advert on the front cover or visit www. RestrictivePractice.com

PAGE 34 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271

TRAINING & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

The Changing Rules of Sponsorship

By Natasha Willett, Partner, Latitude Law (https://latitudelaw.com) A recent Home Office action against Burlington Court Care Home highlights how easily care providers can fall foul of sponsor licence rules. Even small administrative oversights, such as failing to report a change in ownership, can have serious consequences for both employers and their overseas staff.

2025 IMMIGRATION CHANGES AND THE CARE SECTOR While changes to the Immigration Rules are frequent (albeit not always groundbreaking), 2025 has shaped up to be a significant year for immigration changes, especially those aimed at the sponsored work sector. The need to reduce net migration continues to remain at the forefront of government policy making.

The Immigration White Paper, published in April, signalled the end was coming for those looking to make applications as care workers outside the NHS, along with several other jobs deemed to be of lower skill level (most roles below RQF level 6 - graduate level). The White Paper also introduced other suggestions to further tighten up the rules including increasing the required English levels and even the qualifying

period needed to reach settlement. Those in certain care worker roles had already been barred from being able to sponsor dependants and care worker sponsors faced extra scrutiny when applying for and assigning certificates of sponsorship.

In July 2025, some of the suggested amendments were implemented so that now only those who were already being sponsored in certain care roles or have lawfully been working with their employer for at least three months can apply for further permission as Skilled Workers.

There is now a complete ban on recruiting new care workers from abroad. With many care worker sponsors having had their licences revoked in the last few years, there is already a large pool of workers who are at risk of having their leave curtailed. It is clear from changes made in 2024 that the government has been keen for existing sponsors to focus their recruitment efforts on these affected workers.

SPONSOR LICENCE COMPLIANCE: CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP RISKS Change of ownership has long been one of the biggest pitfalls for those holding a sponsor licence. It catches out both large corporations and small businesses alike. A sponsor may have all the necessary dayto-day policies in place for monitoring workers yet still fail to recognise the need for a new licence or transfer when there is a majority change in ownership. Often there is no change to the operational activities of the company nor the workers’ terms of employment, so sponsors blindly carry on without even considering the need for this to be reported to the Home Office.

It was this exact scenario that Glasgow’s Burlington Court Care Home found itself in. There had been a change in majority ownership of

the company, and the workers had been transferred to the new employer under UK TUPE rules. Such action would prompt a new sponsor licence application, or transfer to the purchasing company’s sponsor licence, to be made within 20 working days of the transfer.

Requesting that the existing sponsored workers have their sponsorship transferred is part of this process. It is understood that 15 sponsored workers have been affected by this change and face having their current permission curtailed for what, on the face of it, appears to be an administrative oversight. The Home Office has always taken the view that sponsorship is a privilege not a right and tends not to offer much flexibility or discretion when compliance duties are not adhered to.

COMMON REPORTING PITFALLS Even in cases where there is a change in minority ownership, it is still something which must be reported to the Home Office. Failure to report changes in company name and address are also routine acts which could result in compliance action being taken against a licence holder if not reported. Reporting failures have seemingly become so frequent that is has recently prompted the Home Office to issue a notice on its SMS message board to remind licence holders to regularly review and update details, including those for Key Personnel. Failing to change or deactivate Key Personnel when they leave a business is another common issue we see at Latitude Law.

KEY TAKEAWAY FOR CARE PROVIDERS The action taken against Burlington Court Care Home serves as a reminder to sponsors that if any changes occur – whether it be to the business or to a worker’s personal circumstances – this will probably require a report to the Home Office to stay compliant.

Competency That Builds Confidence: Blended Learning Designed for Real Care Competency assessment might not be anyone’s favourite phrase, but in domiciliary, residential, and specialist care, it is the backbone of safe, high-quality support. The challenge is making it genuinely useful, not just another hoop to jump through.

Care staff need more than theory. They need time to learn, practise, and make mistakes in a safe environment before they are expected to apply new skills with real people. That is where a blended learning approach truly shines. High quality eLearning builds consistent knowledge. Virtual sessions keep teams connected and engaged.

Face to face training gives carers the chance to try techniques, ask questions, and build confidence before working directly with residents

and service users in their homes or care settings.

But learning does not stop in the classroom. Competency assessments in real care environments provide the feedback carers need to know they are using best practice techniques, communicating well, and delivering safe, person-centred care. It is the bridge between “I know it” and “I can do it.”

This balance of learning plus real world assessment creates confident, capable staff who trust their own skills and feel supported rather than judged. Managers also get clear, reliable evidence for CQC and Skills for Care requirements without drowning in admin.

At myAko, we have developed tools with our long term partners,

that make this process simple and sustainable. Better learning, better practice, better competency. It is a straightforward formula that leads to stronger teams and better outcomes for residents and service users.

Because when staff feel skilled, supported, and confident, the quality of care speaks for itself.

Kevin Ashley Founder I CEO myAko https://www.myako.online/

Blended learning that works for carers Training shouldn’t feel like an extra shift. myAko brings together digital learning, practical skills, and real-world support so carers can learn smarter, not harder.

Built for busy days, unexpected days, and the days when the kettle breaks again.

You Deserve myAko. Find out more at myAko.online

👉

www.myAko.online hello@myAko.com 01202 283283

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 271 | PAGE 35

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

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

The fact that I am now involved with this not-for-profit organisation (in the UK area) came about when one of the 2 main UK directors died suddenly just before Covid.

But it's something I have run with for 11 years to help make 'vision' a reality, not a struggle. So, being both a customer and helping the admin seems quite natural.

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

CQC Compliance: The Importance of Up-to-Date Policies and Procedures In today’s regulated care environment, having clear, current, and wellcommunicated health and social care policies is essential for delivering safe, compliant services. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) now places increasing emphasis on how policies are implemented and understood—especially during registration and inspections.

Outdated or poorly communicated policies can significantly impact your CQC rating. Even if documentation is comprehensive, failure to ensure staff understand and follow procedures may lead to a “Requires Improvement” or even “Inadequate” rating under the ‘Effective’ domain.

Well-maintained policies promote consistent standards across care teams and help safeguard services when incidents arise. In regulatory investigations, the first request is often to review relevant policies—making accuracy and accessibility key to reducing legal and compliance risks.

However, keeping policies up to date is challenging. Constant changes in legislation, best practice guid-

ance, and case law mean that policies can quickly become obsolete.

W&P has been a trusted provider of CQC-ready care policies and procedures for over 20 years. Our expert team monitors industry developments to ensure your policies remain fully compliant.

Our Online Policy Portal simplifies policy management. With just a few clicks, providers can update content, distribute documents to staff, track confirmations, and monitor compliance via a real-time dashboard. You can even provide temporary read-only access to inspectors—demonstrating transparency and accountability instantly.

Ensure your care service meets CQC expectations with fully up-to-date, easily accessible, and well-communicated policies.

Email: info@wandptraining.co.uk Call: 01305 767104 See the advert on page 2 for details.

Care Home Finance from Global Business Finance Global assists clients throughout the U.K. who specialise in the healthcare sector to achieve their objectives of purchase, development and refinance.

We have organised over £1.8bn for clients in the past 30 years, providing clients with competitively priced funding to refinance existing debt, ease cashflow and develop businesses further.

From helping clients make their first purchase through to allowing groups to grow significantly in size we

assist at every stage of your business expansion.

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