The Carer Digital - Issue #72

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The Carer Digital

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Issue 72

Parliamentary Report’s Damning Assessment of Government’s Pandemic Response

The government waited too long to enforce a lockdown in the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, missing a chance to control the disease, leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths, a parliamentary report has concluded.

In a critical assessment, a cross-party group of British MPs found government pandemic planning was too focused on flu. The joint investigation published today (Tuesday October 12) by the House of Commons’ science and health com-

mittees is lawmakers’ first assessment into why the United Kingdom saw cases rise steeply with deaths far outnumbering many similar countries.

The number of deaths associated with the coronavirus in the U.K. are believed to exceed 140,000, placing the UK in the Top 10 worldwide for total fatalities, according to World Health Organization data.

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PAGE 2 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

A bit of a brief column as I am at the Care Show in Birmingham NEC (@CareShow) today and tomorrow (13 & 14 October). You can find us on Stand A91 in the main hall, so if you are attending this fantastic show please do stop by.

I was honoured last week to have been a judge at the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) Care Chef of the Year competition. (See page 7).

A wonderful opportunity for the sector to showcase its considerable talents.

I was not, as is sometimes said, “amazed” at the standard and quality of the dishes the chefs created, with such flair and imagination. As a regular attendee of the competition (but a first time judge) I have observed these high standards over the years, so it was less of an unexpected surprise!

What was slightly different this year was the number of chefs who have migrated from the hospitality sector.

This was wonderful to see! They had of course migrated from the hospitality sector to the care sector due to the pandemic, with hospitality closing down. They were chefs from hotels, pubs and restaurants.

I think it was they who were impressed with the sector generally. They who were surprised at the standard of catering in care which was allowing them to showcase their talents and at the same time learn the importance of nutritional value, hydration, and other dietary and cultural requirements.

So much so that they are “in for the long haul”. No one I spoke to had any desire to return to hospitality!

So thank you NACC for the opportunity to judge and for the great three day event with a tradeshow, seminars and motivational speakers, which I found at times humbling.

Why? On the last day in a seminar we were asked “At what point did you realise that the world had stopped turning and we were in a fight for our lives? At what point did you realise things would never be the same”?

I listened to care providers who were at the coalface, caught in the eye of the storm, all choked with emotion as they shared their harrowing experiences.

If only there was a government minister in the room at that time!

They also shared their inspirational stories too. Stories of staff, at all levels, families of residents and communities rallying around to support. Again, how I wished there was a government minister in the room.

I was watching a news story today on a channel which will remain nameless (no

Editor

Peter Adams

desire to get into a dogfight) as will the presenter involved.

He was interviewing sector spokespeople about the Skills for Care report (see page 5) which, reveals that there are 105,000 sector vacancies on any given day, which amounts to 6% of total workforce, has been that high for the past 6 years, and, that sector staff turnover rates are 28.5%.

The presenters comment: “ Pay them more. If people working in care were paid more then there would not be such a problem” Yes he said words to that effect!

So, there you are, the care sector staffing problem solved in a single sentence by a tv presenter!

I am of course being facetious, but I think I do have a point.

It was explained to him the difficulty in achieving that given the underfunding the sector has faced for decades, at which point I don’t think he was listening any more!

Anyway I must now man out stand for the next two days so please do pop by if you are attending the show!

Before I go, just time to remind you about our latest UNSUNG HERO award.

In previous years we have invited residential and nursing care homes to nominate somebody in their home who they believe is that “Unsung Hero”.

Your own Unsung Hero can be from any department, frontline care, laundry, maintenance, kitchen, administration – we will leave that up to you!

Further details can be found on page 16.

We have set aside plenty of time, and we have already received some wonderfully warm uplifting and inspirational nominations!

A fantastic luxury hamper awaits the winner so please do get nominating via nominate@thecareruk.com And please do keep your positive stories coming in. We are delighted to publish some delightful stories from various homes around the country, from birthdays to fund raising, from baking to growing vegetables, anything you would like to share please do send it to me at editor@thecareruk.com

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THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 3

Parliamentary Report’s Damning Assessment of Government’s Pandemic Response (...CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER) The cross-party group also stated that the government failed to develop an effective test-and-trace system, which could have helped curtail the spread of the virus and followed a policy of what essentially amounted to “herd immunity”. “Vast sums of taxpayers’ money were directed to Test and Trace, justified by the benefits of avoiding further lockdowns. But ultimately those lockdowns happened,” the report added.

CRITICAL OF GOVERNMENT POLICY The report also criticised the government’s policies on social care.

The decision to return elderly patients to care homes without testing them for the coronavirus led to a rise of cases among the most vulnerable people in the population as well as decision making in relation to ethnic minorities and people with disabilities.

The report also pointed to what it said were significant mistakes in social care, from a lack of scientific advice at the beginning of the outbreak, to a failure to prioritize PPE for care staff, to the swift discharge of patients from hospitals back into care homes, without proper testing.

The report said the government had failed to learn the lessons from the prior Sars, Mers and Ebola outbreaks, calling it “one of the most important public health failures” in the country’s history. The report noted that while some initiatives were examples of global best practices, others exemplified serious mistakes.

“REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT” The report did however praise the “remarkable” achievement of the National Health Service in expanding ventilator and intensive care capacity and emphasizes the success of the Vaccines Task Force in quickly delivering life-saving vaccines, which were rolled out at speed.

The country’s clinical trials testing for COVID-19 treatments have also been “world-leading,” it said.

However, delaying crucial action to impose a stay-at-home order “reflected a fatalism about the spread of COVID that should have been robustly challenged at the time,” the committees said.

In “accepting that herd immunity by infection was the inevitable outcome,” the report said the UK made a “serious early error in adopting this fatalistic approach” and not considering a rigorous targeted public health approach to stop the spread of the virus, as adopted by many East and Southeast Asian countries.

“BIG MISTAKES” “The UK response has combined some big achievements with some big mistakes,” said health committee Chair Jeremy Hunt and science committee Chair Greg Clark in a statement. “It is vital to learn from both

to ensure that we perform as best as we possibly can during the remainder of the pandemic and in the future.”

The 150-page report is based on evidence from more than 50 individuals, including England’s Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty, former Health Secretary Matt Hancock, former No. 10 adviser Dominic Cummings and Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance When the national government suspended routine, symptomatic COVID testing of members of the public early in the pandemic, it cut short its ability to analyze the epidemiology of the virus and its wealth of data experts had no data to interrogate, leaving the ship rudderless.

Combined, these led to “many thousands of deaths which could have been avoided,” lawmakers said.

REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS The report contained 38 recommendations for the government, from the U.K. coordinating international resilience planning, including reform of the World Health Organization; to allowing immediate data flows between relevant bodies; to giving the Armed Forces a more central role.

Separately, the government has also committed to launching a full public inquiry into the mistakes made in its handling of the pandemic; the evidence gathered by the committees will be available to that inquiry.

Responding to a joint report, Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, said: “Councils have been leading their communities through the pandemic and as this report makes clear, could have been given a greater role in the initial response to COVID-19.

“Directors of Public Health and their teams, working in councils, know their areas best and were eventually able to complement the national test and trace system by setting up their own local contact tracing partnerships and successfully tracing many hard-to-reach cases.

“Social care was already under severe pressure prior to the pandemic, which exposed and exacerbated some fundamental weaknesses, including workforce shortages and a lack of funding.

“Coronavirus will be with us for some time to come and challenges remain, including the need for greater data sharing with councils to help them deal with localised outbreaks, alongside the necessary resources and personnel.

“The Spending Review is an opportunity to address the health inequalities exposed by the pandemic which are preventing us from levelling up the country, by investing in councils’ public health services and injecting genuinely new funding into adult social care to tackle immediate pressures, if we are to build back better from the pandemic.”

Former chief medical officer Professor Dame Sally Davies told the inquiry there had been “groupthink”, with infectious disease experts not believing that “Sars, or another Sars, would get from Asia to us”. She likened it to a “form of British exceptionalism”.

Labour said the report reinforced the immediate need for a public inquiry “so mistakes of such tragic magnitude are never repeated again”, while its authors said it was “vital” that lessons were learnt from the failings of the past 18 months.

PREVENTING A “FUTURE DISASTER” Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK said: "This report does not duck the truth about what happened to social care during the pandemic, making it a tough but very necessary read. It correctly observes that social care was something of an afterthought during the early terrifying months of COVID19, when the focus on 'protecting the NHS' inadvertently resulted in older people and staff in care homes being badly let down.

Tens of thousands died as a result, leaving their families wondering whether their loved ones could have been saved if we had been better prepared as a nation, and more savvy in Government about the role and capability of this vital public service on which so many older people depend."

"Putting in place the policies and resources needed to prevent a similar future disaster is the least that the legion of bereaved families is entitled to expect. At Age UK we agree with the Committee that as well as better pandemic planning, social care also needs to be better represented and understood in Government and in the upper echelons of the NHS. Government must also follow through with the funding and policies it has promised to stabilise social care and rebuild it, after its pounding from the pandemic. In this respect it is important to understand that the extra money for social care which the Prime Minister announced in September will not help as it's for a cap on catastrophic care costs, not for social care services themselves. It's Chancellor Rishi Sunak' responsibility to stabilise and re-float social care's boat in his forthcoming Spending Review and we look to him to live up to it."

PAGE 4 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

The Social Care Sector Must Do More To Harden Cyber Security and Improve Digital Hygiene

By Chris Cox, Chief Technology Officer, Quality Compliance Systems (QCS) In May 2019, the Institute of Public Care, which is part of Oxford Brookes University, published its annual ‘Adult Social Care Data and Cyber Security Programme’ report.

The study devised a traffic light risk categorisation model, which rated care services on how fit and able they were to cope for 48 hours (if key systems did go down due to a cyber security issue).

Of the 70 care services interviewed, the researchers placed two thirds of them in the green category, a quarter in amber and seven percent in red. However, this study - and the results that followed - were collated seven months before COVID-19 first surfaced. The COVID-19 pandemic has of course brought about profound and sweeping change to the social care sector. As a result, the narrow lens at which we once looked through to evaluate cyber security has changed forever.

The pandemic was the catalyst for this remarkable sea change. It ruthlessly laid bare the fact that a largely paper-based sector was very much on the back foot when it came to the adoption of next generation technology systems.

That prism, therefore, immediately widened as more services began to suddenly embrace video based platforms, state-of-the-art digital care planning systems and a host of SaaS platforms to improve a lack of digital efficiency and effectiveness.

Own Device (BYOD) home and lets their youngest child play on it? If their son or daughter is not supervised, it is not just the phone, but the care service too that is vulnerable to cyberattack. Just how common a problem this is, or could become, is unclear. That said, we do know that 60 percent of attacks are carried out by people working within an organisation, and that one quarter were conducted by “inadvertent actors”. If this statistic, which was first revealed in the 2016 Cyber Security Index, still holds water, then it could spell problems for a deeply fragmented sector which relies on a legion of many small providers that make up the sector.

THE CURRENT LEVEL OF CYBER THREAT

KNOWLEDGE THE MOST EFFECTIVE FORM OF ENCRYPTION

While, it's extremely difficult to accurately evaluate the current level of cyber security risk to the social care sector, research published by Digital Social Care and Skills for Care reveals that one in ten care providers experienced a cyberattack or data breach in the last year.

As for the greatest cyber security risks the sector faces, as QCS’s Chief Technology Officer, l would say that three huge challenges persist. Ransomware, malicious software, which blocks access to a computer until a ransom is paid, phishing attacks, which trick care workers into sending sensitive information, and, malware, software, which destroys computer systems, are the three greatest cyber risks for care staff.

However, it is perhaps a lack of holistic cyber security training which fails to join the dots when it comes to educating care staff on the unintended consequences of their actions. What do I mean? Well, cyber training might suitably equip staff with the knowledge and skills to spot a phishing, malware or ransomware attack, but according to joint research published by Digital Social Care and Skills for Care “43 percent of providers used a mixture of company devices and their own devices for work”.

What happens, therefore, when a care worker hands their Bring Your

At QCS, we believe real-world knowledge training to be the most effective and inexpensive methods of encryption. Once staff have fully digested the QCS policies and other best practice content, such as the NHSX Toolkit, we continue awareness training by encouraging staff to watch a series of YouTube videos. They are extremely effective because the videos use real-life scenarios to educate staff on the importance of maintaining password hygiene, while revealing the tricks that hackers use, and then highlighting how the threat can be best countered. Video-based learning is then supplemented by a series of robust policies and procedures, which are constantly updated.

But, to really neutralise the cyber threat, care services must also instil a culture of cyber hygiene in a care service. It starts from the top. Care managers should adopt the ‘defender’s dilemma’. This essentially means considering every possible vector of attack which hackers could exploit. However, with the pandemic opening the floodgates to the implementation of a myriad of different technologies, which are often interlinked, hackers only need to make good on one cyber vulnerability in the care service application infrastructure. Therefore, ensuring everyone has robust and up-to-date training is imperative.

CYBER SECURITY ARCHITECTURE THAT EVERY CARE PROVIDER SHOULD IMPLEMENT So, what technology and effective training courses can Registered Managers put in place to protect their organisations from attack? At QCS, the leading provider of content, guidance and standards for the social care sector, we advocate the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This may sound complex, but anyone who does internet banking will be familiar with the process. It essentially asks users for two pieces of evidence to prove their identity.

While I believe MFA is extremely effective, it should be a minimum requirement and be used in all its different forms - from the minute a person starts a job to when they leave their post. But, care services also need to implement Single Sign On (SSO) systems too. This leading-edge architecture enables users to access multiple application using a single username and password. If there is a cyberattack, the advantage of SSO is that it allows a data officer to close down every single system that every employee uses in one fell swoop.

When you consider that staff use a patchwork quilt of systems, each one requiring a different password, the cost of not having SSO suddenly becomes evident. At best, data officers are given the herculean task of decommissioning each account manually. At worst, and especially if the care service is large, a non-SSO system could result in a malware or ransomware attack burrowing its way deeper into the system and in the worst case scenario, paralysing it

THE DSPT To harden IT infrastructure, I would recommend that every service complete the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT), which effectively demonstrates that providers are complying with ten data and security standards set by the National Data Guardian. The DSPT is an excellent resource because it really helps services to focus on their cyber security posture and digital hygiene responsibilities.

However, the DSPT cannot be considered to be a panacea all on its own because it is a merely a self-certification tool. It relies on Registered Managers, who are experts in dispensing care, but not necessarily adept in cyber security, to possess a sufficient level of knowledge to complete the form. If they don’t have the requisite understanding, then there is a clear and present danger that some of the systemic underlying cyber security issues that affect the sector are not brought to the surface, which could be hugely damaging. To increase cyber security knowledge, therefore, I would encourage providers to utilise the Better Security, Better Care programme, which has been specifically designed to help care services work through and complete the DSPT.

THE ROLE OF THE CQC I think, therefore, to really ensure a secure operating environment for all, it needs the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to include cyber security and data hygiene as part of its assessment criteria. I am not alone in reaching this conclusion. In Oxford Brookes’ ‘2019 Adult Social Care Data and Cyber Security Programme’ report, one of its recommendations before the pandemic was “to explore how the DSPT toolkit could be incorporated as part of the evidence inspectors use to make assessments of social care providers”.

While the CQC says that the “use and security of records and data” is covered in its current assessment framework, a blog post by David James, the Head of Adult Social Care Policy at the CQC, for Digital Social Care in June confirms that it is still not a CQC requirement for care services “to complete the (DSPT) toolkit in order to demonstrate compliance within CQC standards”.

A CQC Spokesperson added, “We recognise that care providers' data and cyber security arrangements can help shape outcomes for people using services. We launched our new strategy earlier this year, and are currently updating our assessment framework. As part of this we are exploring how the Data Security and Protection Toolkit can be incorporated within the evidence we consider on inspections. It is anticipated that this work will be rolled out in stages early next year.”

If the regulator were to take this single step, then I believe that the IT systems of individual providers, the local services that they draw upon and the supply chains that surround them would be much better insulated from cyberattack. Indeed, if the chain is only as strong as the weakest link, then reinforcing every individual node, makes good sense.

With special thanks to Digital Social Care and Fiona Richardson, Programme Director for the Institute of Public Care.

To find out more about the QCS or to purchase a subscription, please contact QCS’s team of advisors on 0333-405-3333 or email: sales@qcs.co.uk.

Residents at Hindhead Care Home Enjoy First Ride on New Trishaw Bike Residents at a Surrey care home have been able to enjoy their first trip out on a new trishaw bike – enjoying a sunlit sightseeing tour of the estate where the home is located thanks to the efforts of a cycling charity.

Cycling Without Age, a volunteer-led scheme which uses ‘pilots’ to take older members of the community out cycling, has recently completed fundraising efforts for its Guildford chapter, which enabled it to purchase a brand new trishaw bike for use in the community.

Last week, residents at the Huntington & Langham Estate in Hindhead, whose staff helped fundraise for the endeavour, were delighted to feel the rush of wind through their hair again and to enjoy the general thrill of being on a bike – which in this instance is similar to a rickshaw, but with the person pedalling sat behind the passengers.

With a pilot from Cycling Without Age doing both the pedalling and steering, residents were able to sit back, relax and enjoy the tour taking in the sights of the estate, which includes a vibrant mixture of farm animals, greenery and wildlife thanks to its extensive grounds.

The trishaw is now permanently established in the local community, providing residents of the estate with the opportunity to enjoy regular bike rides, courtesy of the scheme’s volunteer pilots.

Charlie Hoare, Director of the Huntington & Langham Estate commented: “At the Huntington & Langham Estate we are always exploring ways to help our residents to

continue to experience and enjoy the things they love in life. We’re also huge advocates of the outdoors and we do all we can to connect our residents with outside. We’re blessed to have vast grounds at the estate, which provides a great deal of enjoyment for people who live here. Last year, I was astounded to learn we had the Barry - the original trailblazer of the acclaimed off-road cycling route in Surrey known as ‘Barry Knows Best’ – living with us at the home.”

Charlie continued: “He’s a true pioneer of the Surrey mountain biking scene and a celebrated local mountain biker, who’s a prime example of a resident who would love to experience the sensation of a bike ride again – so we explored the options that would allow Barry to do so. That’s when we discovered Cycling Without Age; a charity which looks to facilitate just that. This brilliant scheme has also given us another resource to help our residents enjoy the beautiful outside space of the estate. ” Caroline commented: “We are so pleased we are able to contribute to the wellbeing of the residents by providing a different experience which further encourages enjoyment of the outdoors and certainly puts some smiles on everyone's faces, including ours!”

Charlie Hoare added: “It’s a tremendous initiative and we’re delighted to get involved. We have a unique outdoor environment on the estate, including a variety of farm animals and other outdoor attractions. Being able to take residents on bike rides just serves to open up even more opportunity for those who live with us, as well as those in the wider community through the Cycling Without Age Scheme.”

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 5

Social Care Report Highlights Sector’s Recruitment and Turnover Issues

The latest report from Skills for Care reveals the significant impact the pandemic has had on both the short and long-term challenges faced by the workforce.

The annual ‘The state of the adult social care sector and workforce in England’ report - based on data provided by sector employers to the Adult Social Care Workforce Data Set (ASC-WDS) - reveals that on average, 6.8% of roles in adult social care were vacant in 2020/21, which is equivalent to 105,000 vacancies being advertised on an average day.

The vacancy rate in adult social care has been persistently high at above 6% for the previous six years.

The turnover rates across the sector remain high, at 28.5% in 2020/21.

This figure had decreased during the pandemic, but since March 2021 many employers report that retention is now more difficult than before the pandemic. The rate was higher for registered nurses at 38.2%, much higher than for their counterparts in the NHS (8.8%).

In recent months adult social care employers have been raising the significant recruitment challenges they are facing.

• Since May 2021, vacancy rates have steadily risen as the wider economy has opened back up. As of August 2021, vacancy rates are now back above their pre-pandemic levels.

• Since March 2021, we have seen a decrease in jobs (filled posts) of around -1.8%. This is the first time on record that the number of jobs (filled posts) has fallen. At the same time vacancy rates are increasing. This indicates that providers are struggling with recruitment and retention, rather than a decrease in demand, which we know from our market insights. This is even more pertinent in registered nurse jobs, which have fallen by 5% to 34,000 in the last year.

Vacancies offer people opportunities to work in rewarding and challenging roles supporting people in their communities. As we develop and implement reform for our workforce, we need to make a strong case that these jobs offer highly-skilled careers where you can progress to leadership positions.

We need to listen to people who draw on care and support services to understand what they want. People want to be supported by people who have the skills to support them, and people who are trained and developed who are then less likely to leave their roles.

The steady shift from care homes to care at home services continues and has been accelerated by the pandemic.

In 2020/21 the number of adult social care jobs increased by 2.8% (45,000 jobs). The vast majority of this increase was in domiciliary care services which increased by 7.4% (40,000 jobs).

The total number of direct payment recipients employing staff has remained stable (at around 70,000, and 130,000 jobs) since 2014/15.

Occupancy rates of care homes also fell during the pandemic from 86% pre-covid to 77% in March 2021.

People who draw on care services say that that they want to live in a place they call home, and we need to ensure reform recognises this desire enabling people to draw on care in the way that works best for them.

The National Living Wage (NLW) has contributed to a 6% increase in the median nominal care worker hourly rate from March 2020 to March 2021. However, employers have found it more difficult to maintain differentials for more experienced workers, care workers with five years’ (or more) experience in the sector are paid just 6 pence (1%) more per hour than care workers with less than one year of experience.

Social care workers from a Black, Asian or minority ethnicity make up 21% of the total workforce with 82% female and 27% aged 55 and over.

We must reward them and embrace the opportunity to make social care an employer for all.

The report shows social care is a growing market currently contributing £50.3 billion to the English economy. The efforts of the 1.54m people who worked tirelessly throughout lockdown need to be recognised and properly rewarded.

We are aware that workforce is a priority for the upcoming white paper and we are committed to working with Government and stakeholders across the sector to make a shared vision for a workforce which enables people to live the lives they want, where they want.

Responding to the report report Danny Mortimer, co-convenor of the Cavendish Coalition and chief executive of NHS Employers, which is part of the NHS Confederation, said: “This is a stark reminder of the ongoing and very difficult workforce issues that exist social care. Social care desperately needs long term investment across the sector to improve services, boost wages and help the recruitment and retention of these important roles in our communities.

“All of us working across social care and health are clear that the present immigration system has failed to help social care and needs urgent reform. We are also clear that the government must act decisively to ensure a long term strategy for investment in the social care workforce, that makes working in social care a more attractive and valued career in the current challenging labour market.”

Birkdale Park Nursing Home Matron Elaine Williams RGN Receives Recognition for 50 Years Nursing 50 years of continuous nursing service! Recently Elaine Williams (Registered General Nurse) was awarded a certificate of recognition for 50 years of continuous nursing service from the Nursing

Congratulation Elaine.’

Elaine started her nursing career in 1971 as a nursing cadet working on Southport Spinal Wards at Southport Promenade Hospital. Over

and Midwifery Council at Birkdale Park Nursing Home in Southport

the years she has worked in hospitals and multiple care homes. Her

and presented by Mark Blundell (Merseyside Lord Lieutenant).

passion is end of life palliative care and has a particular interest in

Jonathan Cunningham, Registered Care Manager said, ‘we are immensely proud of our home Matron Elaine. This is an incredible award that we had to appropriately recognise her immense

wounds management. She has been at Birkdale Park Nursing Home for many years and has promised to remain for another 50 years!

Mark Blundell spent an hour visiting Birkdale Park, meeting the res-

achievement. Huge thanks and appreciation to Mark Blundell the

idents and staff and shown electronic digital care planning and other

Merseyside Lord Lieutenant for agreeing to make the presentation

uses for IT in a social care setting.

to Elaine. She is a wonderful nurse and everyone loves her!

Well done Nursing Elaine, the world needs more Elaines!

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 7

And the NACC Care Chef of the Year 2021 is Aaron Watson The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) has declared Aaron Watson of Primrose Bank Care Home, Poulton-le-Fylde, the NACC Care Chef of the Year 2021.

Aaron was awarded the coveted title in front of NACC members and delegates during the official opening of the NACC Training & Development Forum 2021 at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham.

Matt Knott of Fernhill House Majesticare, Worcester, and Daniel Kavanagh of Green Tree Court, Lexicon Healthcare, Exeter, took second and third places, respectively.

The closely fought national final took place on Wednesday 6th October at the new venue of Manor Farm Cookery School, Grantham. In just 90 minutes, the talented finalists showcased their culinary skills, creativity and knowledge in the specialist field of care catering under the watchful eyes of the expert judges, who were looking for clear nutritional understanding of the foods being used and how they support the needs of their clientele, plus culinary flair through flavours, menu balance, execution, presentation, and hygiene best practice.

Aaron ticked all the boxes and more, impressing the judges with his delicious menu of honey & ginger glazed pork fillet served with garlic and chilli pak choi, potato croquette, carrot purée and fresh apple followed by a dessert of sweet chilli roasted pineapple with coconut ice cream and spiced rum caramel sauce.

After intense deliberation, the judges unanimously agreed that Aaron

was the worthy winner, praising his”innovative, resident- and personcentred menu that expertly brought together delicious Asian flavours in a modern, exciting way, whilst showing a sound understanding of nutritional requirements.”

On winning, Aaron said: “I’m really happy to have won. I’m also a little surprised – I thought the final went well for me, but the other chefs were so good I didn’t dare imagine winning! It was fantastic to see what the other finalists were doing and to learn from their expertise too. I’m just very pleased to be creating food that puts smiles on people’s faces.”

Daniel Kavanagh was also awarded Highly Commended Main for his pan-roasted chicken with wild mushroom and pastry lid, which stood out for the judges in both flavour and taste with “real wow and zing”, and David Whistler of The Cambridgeshire Care Home, Cambridge, scooped Highly Commended Dessert for his pear frangipane, which the judges described as “simple yet skilful, with outstanding nutritional balance and taste”.

Sue Cawthray, the NACC’s national chair, said: “Huge congratulations to Aaron Watson, our NACC Care Chef of the Year 2021. The national final gave us an incredibly exciting 90 minutes of competition. After more than a year of experiencing life through a screen, it was fantastic to bring the competition back into the kitchen where it belongs. All the talented finalists put on an amazing performance and were both impressive and inspiring. The judges certainly had a difficult job in deciding the winner – and I’m glad that responsibility didn’t fall to me!

“Care chefs are highly-skilled individuals, whose knowledge and culinary flair makes a real difference to the wellbeing and quality of life of the older and vulnerable people they dedicate their talent to. This has been spotlighted during the challenges of the pandemic and that is why this fantastic competition is so important.

It not only gives our chefs the opportunity to push boundaries, develop their skills and shine, it gives care catering a platform that demonstrates and celebrates the value and contribution of

care chefs up and down the country.

They go above and beyond every day to ensure their residents and clients always enjoy person-centred, nutritious and delicious food, whatever life throws at them, and that is certainly something to be proud of and to shout about.”

The NACC Care Chef of the Year competition is supported by the main sponsor Unilever Food Solutions and long-standing event sponsor the Worshipful Company of Cooks.

Alex Hall, Executive Chef at Unilever Food Solutions, said: “Unilever is proud to sponsor the NACC Care Chef of the Year competition. This competition provides a great opportunity for care chefs around the country to showcase their skills and raise the profile of care catering. It represents the challenges that chefs in the care sector face on a daily basis, from serving exceptional food to managing budgets. The way that all the competitors incorporated our products, such as Knorr, Hellmann’s and Carte D’Or, has inspired me personally as well.

“All the competitors, from the regional rounds through to the final, have shared some amazing dishes and stories about how they have engaged with their residents to refine and develop their dishes to deliver the very best for the competition. So, a big thank you to all and especially to Aaron Watson, whose winning dishes were so well received by all the judges. We cannot wait to work closely with you during the next 12 months to share more inspiring recipes for all to enjoy!”

Focusing on the importance of food, nutrition and positive mealtime experiences as part of quality care, entrants are challenged to create an appealing and delicious two-course menu (main and dessert) appropriate for people in a care setting. The combined food cost for both courses should be no more than £2.25 per head based on three portions and it must be nutritionally balanced. The menu must also feature a product from Unilever Food Solutions’ sector-relevant portfolio.

For more information on the NACC Care Chef of the Year 2021 competition visit www.thenacc.co.uk

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 9

Adult Social Care Contributes £50.3 Bn To English Economy - Says Report The growing adult social care sector and its skilled workforce contributes £50.3 billion to the English economy according to a new report published by Skills for Care.

Skills for care commissioned economic consultants KDNA to produce a detailed analysis of how that significant economic spend is made in communities across England.

‘The value of adult social care in England’ report argues that the best way to make adult social care sustainable in the long-term is to move away from payment for adult social care processes to payment based on better outcomes for people who draw on care and support services.

It argues that the skills and knowledge of the 1.5 million strong adult social care workforce is absolutely central to high quality, and that investing in the development of talented and productive care workers has significant benefits to the outcomes of people drawing on care and support as well wider benefits to the national economy.

The report says Skills for Care can help shape how to offer contracts that reward and value quality of care and the wellbeing outcomes of that support. This will allow payment of wages to care staff that will better represent the true value of the work they do to support people in our

communities. Addressing this is important at a time when providers are reporting significant recruitment and retention challenges.

The report also analyses the workforce’s value to society and monetises some of these benefits, including improved wellbeing of carers and employment opportunities for carers which is calculated as up to £1.3bn and around £5.6 billion for working age adults. In total we estimate that these economic benefits are at least £7.9 billion over and above the economic value of £50.3 billion During the pandemic the sector’s economic activity increased by 7.7% while other sectors saw their activity stall or shrink by up to 4% overall.

This resulted in the adult social care contribution to the whole economy growing from 1.4% to 1.6%.

Any sustained growth in adult social care will boost local economies, creating jobs by attracting new recruits into rewarding careers in a growing sector and additional benefits via indirect and induced ‘multiplier’ effects. That economic growth would take place throughout England, but would have the greatest impact, and so support levelling up, in Northern and Midlands regions, where adult social care GVA is around 2% of total GVA compared to less than 1% in London and the South East.

Recommendation from the report say the sector needs to: • Create a better-defined career structure linked to training which is consistently invested in • Address pay differentiations between senior and entry-level care worker roles, linking to career structures • Recognise and reward the central role registered managers play in highquality service delivery • Took at higher overall levels of pay to increase the competitiveness of the market enabling employers to attract and employ workers with the right values.

Skills for Care CEO Oonagh Smyth said: This report supports our vision of a fair and just society, where people can access the advice, care and support they need delivered by skilled and motivated workers to live their lives to the fullest.

Over the last year the 1.5m people who work in social care have gone above and beyond the call of duty to continue to support our families and people in all of our communities to live their lives, to do the things that they want and keep the relationships that are important to them.

This report shows very clearly that they also make a significant and growing contribution to the national economy.

Wedding Bells Chime at Chorleywood Beaumont Care Community There wasn’t a dry eye in the house at Chorleywood Beaumont today as resident Nesta Williams’ beautiful granddaughter, Charlotte Butler and her handsome fiancé Rhys Butler re-inacted their wedding for their beloved grandmother. The happy couple got married yesterday but unfortunately Nesta was unable to attend the ceremony itself.

Nesta Williams turned 100 years old on 25th May, she has been resident at Chorleywood Beaumont since April 2019. Nesta desperately wanted to see her granddaughter get married so Charlotte and Rhys, along with a selection of wedding guests, came to the Chorleywood Beaumont the very next day in their wedding finery to visit Nesta so she could get the full wedding effect.

Charlotte’s wedding dress was originally worn by her mother, Heather, who is wearing pink in the wedding photos. Nesta helped to make the original dress

which was made for Heather when she got married and has been re-worked for Charlotte, making it a real family affair.

General Manager of Chorleywood Beaumont, Judith Boikhotso, said: “It has been the most wonderful day, we have all been in tears – the bride and groom look so happy and it was just fabulous for Nesta to see them both and the wedding party. We all raised a glass to toast the happy couple, it has been absolutely perfect.”

Nesta commented: “I am just so happy to see my granddaughter married, she looks an absolute picture – I wish them both a long and happy life together, I’m delighted they could come to see me and to be part of this wonderful occasion. I spent a lot of time with Charlotte when she was growing up and it has always been my wish to see her get married. ”

PAGE 10 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Embracing Smart Technology To Revolutionise Independent Living

By Lisa Greaves, Business Development Manager, Connexin Health (www.connexin.co.uk/health) Home care is becoming an increasingly favourable choice for individuals who are growing more vulnerable with age.

Reasons for this can vary. Many elderly people may not want to leave the homes that they have lived in for so many years and desire to retain their freedoms, meaning many will opt for at-home care, while For many, the thought of losing their independence is unthinkable and individuals who become more vulnerable can be fraught with feelings of guilt, knowing their loved ones worry, or even burdened ensuring their safety and well-being is assured. At the same time, the emergence of COVID-19 and the huge impact it has had on care homes could mean more individuals are looking at independent living options so they can feel safe and secure while still receiving the support they need.

While home care may be becoming a more popular option, there are challenges the sector faces when providing home care. Unlike care homes, where residents can be monitored and supported 24/7, those living independently are much more difficult to watch-out for as they are not in a setting where the carers and tools they need are immediately available, should anything go wrong. Funding for home care also remains an issue, with Dr Jane Townson, the chief executive of the UK Homecare Association, who said that the £5.7bn the government plans to raise from the tax rise is “nowhere near enough” because the home care sector needs £11.7bn a year.

From a personal perspective, while some vulnerable people will find the thought of losing their independence unthinkable, they may also feel fraught with guilt knowing their loved ones will worry about them, or even fear burdening family and friends to keep them safe and well.

However, despite these challenges, new innovations are coming to the fore which are enabling the adult social care sector to provide people with more opportunities to live independently while still receiving the support they need.

Next generation digital solutions, such as smart technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), are allowing

even those who require frequent care to maintain their independence while still being kept safe. The main way these platforms are achieving this is through enabling greater remote monitoring so vulnerable people can be protected in their homes to ensure their continued wellbeing.

For example, one of the biggest risks to the elderly living alone is falling over. If someone suffers a serious injury through a fall, such as a hip fracture, it’s vital that they are attended to as soon as possible to ensure their condition doesn’t worsen. By monitoring home care individuals via fall detectors, such as wearable devices that can sense when someone has fallen over or sensors placed under a mattress that send signals to carers if an individual leaves the bed and does not return within agreed timescales, providers can immediately tell when something is wrong and act upon it, all without needing to be in the immediate proximity of the person they are supporting.

At the same time, smart solutions can identify the patterns of those receiving homecare and ensure they are living well, while simultaneously flagging when any abnormal changes occur. Non-intrusive motion detectors can be used to give insight into someone’s normal patterns of behaviour, such as what time they are getting up, going to the bathroom, entering the kitchen or living room areas and going to bed. All these measures can give detailed insight into how well someone is coping living alone and if there are any suspicious changes in routine, allowing carers to identify if and when they need to act to ensure an individual is safe.

Some may think these technologies sound intrusive. However, many are designed so that people’s privacy is protected, with no cameras being used and just sensors purely monitoring movements and patterns.

Finally, prolonging independence through smart technology can also be an important factor when addressing challenges in recruiting a workforce. At any one time, the sector faces vacancies rates of 7.3 per cent (112,000) and staff turnover rates of over 30 per cent. Implementing smart solutions that allow individuals in home care to live more independently for longer means that the limited pool of social care staff can focus their valuable time and resources where they are needed most while reducing pressure on local authorities and providers to find new carers to replenish the workforce.

Those who require adult social care should have the right to receive this how they choose, whether that is in a care setting or in their own homes, while also having access to the best services possible. While home care may have been a harder service to administer in the past, smart technologies are making it more accessible, cost effective and easier to provide, giving individuals their own choice and ensuring their continued safety, wellbeing, and most importantly, their freedom and independence.

Random Acts Of Kindness Graces The Halls Of Worthing Care Home Thanks To Local Social Action Project A care home in Worthing has experienced a random act of kindness from a social action project which has been gracing the community with beautiful gifts.

The other month, Haviland House, a dementia care home based in Goring, was gifted with lovely letters alongside some homemade flowers to show the elderley community that they are loved, remembered and appreciated.

The NCS programme is a two week initiative run for 15-17 year olds over the summer. Within those two weeks, teenagers help focus on solving problems in the community and a social action project in which one group

decided to aim towards the elderly.

Eileen Garbutt, Wellbeing Coordinator at Guild Care said: “I truly can’t thank the NCS team enough. This is such a lovely project filled with wonderful and kind young adults. Our residents were very moved by the words of encouragement, love and gratitude from all those involved. It just goes to show what a little bit of kindness can do to someone.”

One resident at Haviland House said: “What a kind gesture and to know what we have done in the past has made a difference to them now is great.”

Deputy Lord Mayor, Opens £5 million Specialist Nursing Home Early last week (5th October), the Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford visited Exemplar Health Care’s new £5 million specialist nursing home, to mark its official opening.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Beverley Mullaney, was invited to cut the ribbon and unveil a plaque, marking the official opening of Wykewood, Exemplar Health Care’s specialist care home. The home opened its doors to its first resident in June of this year and has created 150 jobs in the local area, including the roles of health care assistants, registered nurses, and activities co-ordinators.

Wykewood, a three-storey home, and Exemplar Health Care’s 1st home in Bradford, will support 40 adults living with complex mental and physical health conditions including Huntington’s disease and Parkinson’s.

Each bedroom is equipped with an en-suite wet room, and has communal dining and living spaces, an activities hub, therapy room, sensory room and large accessible garden. The home also includes a male-only unit.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Beverley Mullaney, said:

home and to take part in this opening.

“The team at Exemplar Health Care gave me a tour of the home and showed me how each room is tailored and personalised to each resident’s needs. It is great to see so many locals working together to provide quality care for the residents at the Wykewood home.”

Sharon Burton, Commissioning Home Director at Wykewood said: “We’re so thrilled to have opened Wykewood and to have received a warm welcome from the Deputy Lord Mayor, Beverley Mullaney.

“All our colleagues have a real passion for ensuring we deliver quality care for every resident, and we’re looking forward to becoming a part of the local community.

“Our goal at Exemplar Health Care is to contribute to the community by employing local people – and we are pleased that we have been “Wykewood’s staff work really hard to ensure the highest quality of care is provided for the residents. I am delighted to have been invited to the

able to recruit local nurses and carers to support our residents, with more opportunities still available. “

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 11

'No Lessons Learned' on Social Care Since Covid-19 THE Government continues to ignore a crisis in social care that left the care of our oldest and most vulnerable exposed to the Covid-19 pandemic, providers have said.

Welcoming the publication of a first inquiry into the pandemic, the Independent Care Group (ICG) said social care paid an awful price for years of under-funding and under-staffing when coronavirus struck.

And it warned that the Government seemingly has not learned any lessons as the social care sector continues its survival battle.

ICG Chair Mike Padgham said: ““We know that at least 32,849 people died from Covid-19 in care settings between 28 December 2019 and 24 September this year.

Without the blood, sweat and tears shed by our amazing staff within the social care sector, that could have been much worse. They performed miracles.

“When Covid-19 hit, the care of people in their own home and in care and nursing homes was already on the brink after a generation of neglect.

“The Government then compounded that situation by putting social care to the back of the queue, concentrating attention and resources on the NHS as it reacted to the pandemic.

“At the outset, care providers were told to continue as normal and even when alarm bells started ringing, we had to fight to get proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), access to the right testing regime and

funding support to prevent us being overwhelmed.

“Eventually, the Government did acknowledge that social care was as much a part of the frontline against Covid-19 as NHS care was and we got a measure of support.

“But if you ask whether any lessons have been learned, I would say the signs are, alarmingly, that they haven’t and social care is still playing second fiddle to NHS healthcare.”

The ICG has welcomed the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee and Health and Social Care Report,Coronavirus: lessons learned to date.

In particular, the ICG welcomes the report’s acknowledgement that longstanding pressures on social care need to be tackled urgently; that the prominence of social care within its government department needs to be addressed and that reform of social care, via a 10year-plan, is overdue and needs to be undertaken urgently.

The report also endorses the Health and Social Care Committee’s call for additional resources to be directed to social care.

The report says: ‘That Committee has made the case for an increase of £7 billion a year by 2023/4. We note that despite the Government’s recent announcement the level of new investment in social care from 2023/24 remains unclear.’

Mr Padgham added: “We have to get more funding

into social care to tackle the staffing crisis and start providing care for the 1.5m plus who are living without the care they need. We must also reward those amazing care staff properly for the critical work they do.

“The Government maybe believes that it solved the social care crisis by announcing some extra National Insurance funded money. But that extra funding will first go to the NHS, with social care not receiving any benefit for some time.

“Social care has already been hit hard by the inability to recruit overseas workers following Brexit. The compulsory vaccine could take another 40,000 out of the sector – where there are already 120,000 vacancies.

The report acknowledges this and we would call on the Government to postpone the November deadline on this straight away.

“Social care is, once again, on its knees and further storm clouds are gathering that could push many providers to the brink, leaving the country short of care this winter, when it needs it most,” Mr Padgham added.

“The litmus test for this first report will be whether the Government reacts to it and carries out the root and branch reform of social care that has been needed for many, many years but ignored by government after government.”

School Sweethearts’ Celebrate 70th Wedding Anniversary Two residents at Sunrise of Frognal care home, have recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

Ray and Joesphine Beven marked the big occasion by sitting down to a lovely afternoon tea and reminiscing about their past.

As well as this the couple also received a special congratulatory card from the Queen herself commending them on their incredible milestone.

Meeting when they were just 16 years old walking out of night school, Ray and Josephine Beven’s story is a heart-warming one.

After attending his classes one wet evening, on his way out he overheard somebody slip on the stairs behind. After helping the girl up and offering to walk

her to the pavement, little did he know at the time he had just met his soulmate.

Immediately Ray and Josephine bonded, sharing laughs and conversation, even realising that they lived very near to each other in Dartford.

And the rest they say, is history.

“It was so lovely to see Ray and Josephine celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary. It was great to hear their stories and reminisce about the past. They shared a lovely one about their marriage with us that they used to always sing to each other a song by Maurice Chevalier and Hermione Gingold – I remember it well! It’s beautiful to see that the spark is still there 70 years on!

Congratulations both, what an achievement!”

WE NOW SUPPLY A WIDE RANGE OF FURNITURE

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 13

NACC Members Reunite to Celebrate the NACC Awards 2021 The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) gathered in Nottingham last week (7th October 2021) to celebrate the great and the good of care catering at the NACC Awards 2021.

The prestigious awards shine a spotlight on the many outstanding contributions to care catering over the past 12 months. An abundance of innovation, excellence and dedication was demonstrated by the winning teams and individuals, together with resilience, agility and care, in what has continued to be a challenging period for the care catering sector.

The very special event saw NACC members and industry colleagues, partners and guests reunited in person to celebrate the worthy winners, having been forced to go virtual in 2020 due to the pandemic. The NACC Awards 2021 gala awards dinner was held at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham.

Sue Cawthray, National Chair of the NACC, said: “What a tremendous evening! A very big congratulations to all the NACC Awards 2021 winners. It was a real privilege to recognise the extraordinary contributions so many have made to care catering and joyful to be able to present our worthy winners with their awards in person.

“As well as honouring our winners, the evening was a real celebration of the care catering sector. The shortlists were inspiring, and we can all agree that this year’s finalists and winners are a true reflection of everyone in our sector who has and continues to work so tirelessly, selflessly and innovatively as the challenges of the pandemic, and other factors such as Brexit, staff shortages and supply chain, have continued to unfold. I could not be prouder to be part of the amazing care catering sector.”

The 2021 NACC Award winners are: The Triumph Over Adversity Award, sponsored by Bullseye Food Packaging: Anwar Kajee, Head of Hospitality, Country Court Whilst continuing to provide its service to its homes, Country Court considered the welfare of its staff. Care packages of 20 items of food, drinks and basic provisions were delivered to all 2200 team members across the country. Employees of all levels helped to unload the artic trucks of pallets and pack the individual care packages prior to their delivery.

CARE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE YEAR AWARD, SPONSORED BY HOBART: LONG CLOSE RETIREMENT HOME As well as developing take-away menus and creating its own clothing protectors, the team at Long Close ensured the nutritional needs of all its residents were met through its purpose built IDDSI kitchen. The team has developed recipes to ensure every menu item can be produced to meet all IDDSI levels and has shared good practice with other homes in the area.

Meals on Wheels Award, sponsored by apetito: The Bevy Community Pub The Bevy is the only community-owned pub in a housing estate in the UK. During the pandemic it set up its own Meals on Wheels service to continue to support its vulnerable regulars during lockdowns and

converting a shed to a summer house, and building a Christmas gingerbread village with the residents. Throughout, he supported staff, making personalised ‘Thank you’ cakes and talking to those who were suffering mentally from the pandemic. As one team member said: “I will always have a life of gratitude to that man.”

Luke Webb, Second Chef, Mill House Care & Dementia Home, is an inspirational young chef. He began his career as a kitchen porter and at 21 years old now delivers exceptional food. He involves the residents when developing recipes and spends his lunchtimes reading residents’ family histories. He encourages residents to eat by putting on his tie and inviting them to dinner. He works anywhere within the home and after working a night shift he developed night-time breakfasts for the dementia residents.

REGION OF THE YEAR AWARD, SPONSORED BY MEIKO: SOUTH WEST REGION beyond. They delivered over 13,500 meals, collected prescriptions, and liaised with GPs. It has a genuine community spirit that wants to help local people during challenging times.

CATERING TEAM OF THE YEAR AWARD, SPONSORED BY E-F GROUP: CARE UK RESIDENTIAL CARE SERVICES The Care UK team’s ‘Dining with Dignity’ approach puts residents at the heart of every meal, which has improved consumption and reduced those at risk of malnutrition. A menu app was developed to enable person-centred menus, bespoke IDDSI training has been given to all chefs, and e-learning courses have been developed for all home team members. In March, Care UK became the first care sector organisation to join the global Fair Kitchens movement to support a more inclusive, healthy culture in hospitality.

CATERING MANAGER OF THE YEAR AWARD, SPONSORED BY UNILEVER FOOD SOLUTIONS: RIDA DIAB, CHEF MANAGER, ROYAL STAR & GARTER - SURBITON Rida, a new chef to the care sector, listens to his residents. When a resident said the pastry wasn’t as good as her Mum’s, he changed the recipe! He developed ‘WOW Wednesday’ when he selects a resident and cooks their chosen recipe or favourite dish. Listening to staff and residents, he completely restructured and enhanced the menus and has given residents real ownership of their dining experience. Through excellent communication and a calm confidence, he has inspired his team and earned their respect.

OUR CARE CATERING HERO AWARD, SPONSORED BY PREMIER FOODS: The judges overwhelmingly agreed that there were two worthy winners of this award.

Adriano Carvalho, Dining Service Coordinator, Sunrise of Sonning, Sunrise Senior Living, always goes that extra mile. During the pandemic he took on extra responsibilities managing housekeeping, decontaminating rooms and filling PPE stations. His extracurricular activities included shopping with his daughter to ensure residents had Christmas plates,

This year, the NACC regions have all done an outstanding job in supporting and connecting members around the country with a series of outstanding, relevant webinars. The judges therefore had a significant task in deciding the overall winner. However, a decision had to be reached and it was South West region that stood out to claim the coveted award.

Pam Rhodes Outstanding Achievement Award, sponsored by Anglia Crown: Sophie Murray, Head of Nutrition and Hydration, Sunrise Senior Living The Pam Rhodes Award recognises the work and commitment of an individual that has made a lasting contribution to the NACC. Sophie joined the NACC in 2013 and became Deputy National Chair in 2016. Her expertise in the field of nutrition and hydration, and in particularly in relation to vulnerable and older people, has been invaluable to the NACC and its campaigns. Her work, for example, has involved bringing together the Nutritional Care and CQC standards and producing Menu Planning & Dining in Care Homes publications for members and other care catering professionals.

With an immense wealth of knowledge and expertise within the care sector, Sophie is an outstanding example of a caring individual. She is thoughtful and considerate, with an ‘only our best will do’ attitude, which she has continued to share with colleagues and customers alike.

National Chair’s Award: Andy Jones Sue Cawthray, the NACC national chair, awarded this special recognition to Andy Jones for his work within the public sector catering industry.

Sue has worked alongside Andy for many years, particularly on the PSC100, and his wealth of knowledge and expertise of the wider range of healthcare services is truly inspiring. He is a well-respected character, loved and admired by so many for his dedication to the importance of catering for good nutrition and hydration, and the importance of having access to good British Food.

For more information about the NACC and the NACC Awards 2021 visit www.thenacc.co.uk

Dr Alex George Visits Care Residents To Chat Mental Health with Residents

A care home has welcomed reality TV star and NHS doctor, Dr Alex George, to meet some of its residents, as he embarks on a campaign to push mental health awareness ahead of Mental Health Awareness Day which took place on 10th October.

As part of a partnership with KIND snacks for its Ment-all Health campaign, which seeks to encourage cross-generational conversation, Dr Alex spent time chatting to several residents at CHD Living’s Kingston Rehabilitation Centre.

With research by the snack brand revealing that almost a third of over 65s believe that the term mental health refers to mental illness, Dr Alex sat down to discuss their understanding of mental health and how it had affected them during their lives.

The doctor, who is the Government’s youth mental health ambassador, spoke to five different residents, who each have colourful and unique life experiences and had come to Kingston Rehabilitation Centre from several care homes within the CHD Living group.

This included Roger Clement, 81, an ex-Harlequins rugby player, who lives at Kingston Rehabilitation Centre, former lock keeper Frederik Stevens, 86, who lives at Kings Lodge care home in West Byfleet, and ex-detective Beryl Boseley, 81, tennis fanatic Gay Vaughan, 88, and women of the arts and potential Capital Radio’s oldest fan Audrey Roberts, 96, who all live at CHD Living’s Surbiton care home.

As part of the conversation, they were asked to describe their interpretation of mental health, which revealed the residents tended to see it as a mental illness or disorder, rather than appreciating the current understanding – something that serves to underline the generational difference in thinking. When pressed for their own mental health expe-

riences, the residents regarded it as something that wasn’t relevant to them, advising they’d “never experienced it” or had ever felt “particularly low”. In a nod to the resilient approach of older generations, Gay went on to say that in the past she has simply “never allowed herself the opportunity to be sad as it goes directly against her namesake”.

Some of the residents recounted stories of tougher times growing up in the war, but saw hard times as “something they were used to”, saying they “just got on with it”, going on to say that emotions and feelings were always “hush hush” and “certainly not something that was discussed within families”.

Dr Alex, physician and UK Youth Mental Health Ambassador, said: “The campaign has revealed a clear disparity between different generations, not only in their willingness to discuss how they’re feeling, but also in their ability to describe what mental health even means. The

real concern is that if there’s a generation that doesn’t fully understand mental health, how can they recognise it in themselves and therefore ask for support. Therefore, this World Mental Health Day, KIND Snacks is calling on the nation to show kindness to older relatives, neighbours, and community members, by simple starting a conversation. Because mental health affects people of all ages, and that one conversation could have more of an impact that you realise.”

Speaking of his meeting with the residents, Dr Alex said: “It was amazing to speak with the residents. It’s awesome to hear some stories – some really sad stuff, some happy stuff making us laugh. It’s just fantastic to hear what their experiences are around mental health and what they think of mental health.”

Shaleeza Hasham, CEO of Adopt a Grandparent and Head of Communications at CHD Living, said: “We were delighted to welcome Dr Alex to the home and we’re excited to support KIND’s mission to get different generations talking – something that’s underlined in our own Adopt a Grandparent campaign, which seeks to create intergenerational friendships.”

Shaleeza continued: “Past interpretations of mental health vary to that of the present day with a ‘stiff upper lip’ often seen as the go to response.

Of course, our understanding of it is certainly evolving for the better, but it’s a perception that’s still deep-rooted in many older generations – and it’s an ongoing process to encourage them to open up. The mental wellbeing of our residents has always been a priority for us at CHD Living and we see first-hand every day how small measures like kindness, compassion and conversations can make a real difference to people’s happiness.

Mental health is just as important in older age as it is at any time of life, and sharing personal stories can make a huge difference.”

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 15

Increased Respect And Admiration For Social Care – An Opportunity To Address Urgent Workforce Shortage New research launched by care provider Anchor, uncovers a profound upswing in respect and admiration for the social care sector since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The research revealed that half (49%) of the public now have a higher opinion of social care since before the pandemic. Crucially, 73% are demanding parity of esteem with the NHS, arguing that social care and the NHS are equally important.

The pandemic has thrust the unwavering efforts of social care workers into the spotlight – with 41% of the nation recognising how they have gone above and beyond during the pandemic and 38% seeing the difference social care workers have made to those they care for during a challenging and uncertain time.

It has also provided a unique opportunity for the nation to stop and think about what they want from their careers and from their lives.

Many are contemplating their next steps, with 46% of the public reevaluating what ‘fulfilment’ looks like to them. Nearly half (48%) of the nation says this challenging period has made them reconsider their life goals, in particular 25–34-year-olds (59%).

Opportunity to address urgent workforce shortage in the care sector As the research reveals how the nation is considering their career goals and wanting to do more for others post-pandemic, this provides a crucial opportunity to address the urgent workforce shortfall in the sector by encouraging people to consider a career in care.

The research follows the government’s recent announcement of social care reform, including a future plan to champion its workforce. But with the sector needing over 600,000 more staff by 2031[1], action is needed

now to futureproof the workforce and the vital work they do.

More than just a job With the public now considering what more they can do for others, and an additional 38%reconsidering their career goals, the research identifies that a career in care could provide a meaningful solution.

The higher regard for the social care workforce follows years of being considered an undesirable career due to outdated perceptions and delayed reform. Anchor’s research reveals that compassion (49%) and empathy (44%) are among the traits most strongly associated with a career in social care. The public also recognises that working in the sector can be challenging (50%) but is nonetheless rewarding (39%).

A career in social care isn’t restricted to just one route and there are many different career paths to suit a range of interests and skill sets.

Jane Ashcroft CBE, Chief Executive of Anchor, said: “Everyone deserves a fulfilling later life, but this wouldn’t be possible without our nation’s social care workforce. So many colleagues have demonstrated unwavering compassion and commitment throughout the pandemic. For too long, people working in social care have been unsung heroes, but having been at the forefront of national conversation throughout the pandemic, I’m deeply encouraged that half of the public now has a higher opinion of the sector.

“We welcome the government’s commitment to social care reform, but with the sector facing a significant workforce shortage, we must act now. We need to galvanize the people who are thinking about a career change and wanting to do more for others, to consider a career in care. Social care has been the backbone of our nation during the pandemic, and can provide a meaningful, challenging and fulfilling career.”

FREE Care Home Guides from Business Companion We all know that running a care home is extremely challenging, especially in these unprecedented times. Thankfully, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), in cooperation with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), has a series of free information resources designed to make managing your care home a little easier. This resource is available on the Business Companion website - the free government-backed website written by trading standards experts to help you understand the laws that affect your care home.

There are four key guides available on the subject of care homes: Fair trading focuses on the best way to serve customers and residents, along with understanding the importance of consumer rights and your responsibilities as a care home.

Care home complaints addresses the legal responsibilities of care homes in dealing with complaints from residents and their representatives, setting out in plain English the

procedures that should be followed in order to resolve complaints as efficiently and amicably as possible.

Web layout lays out the best approach to designing the website for your care home, covering the information that needs to be on it to conform to the law, along with a guide for website development.

Communications gives you the vital information you need to make the most out of communicating with residents and their families.

Want to learn more about these free guides and other free guidance? Business Companion is exhibiting at the Dementia, Care and Nursing Expo at the NEC, Birmingham, on September 15 and 16 and we look forward to meeting you. Visit Business Companion at stand B120 to receive wide-ranging, expert advice on best practices in the care homes industry.

Download your free guides at: www.businesscompanion.info/carehomes

DO YOU KNOW THE CARER’S NEXT UNSUNG HERO? Regular readers will know we here at the Carer have been awarding an Unsung Hero each Summer and Christmas since 2016!

Now, in these unprecedented and testing times we are Say hello looking for another to some Unsung Hero! previous (How we wish we could winners! reward you all!)

Care Home urst of Cloverfield Marion Brockleh

Thelma O’Leary of Fern hill House Care Home

A Super Deluxe Luxury Hamper for the lucky winner! ro r last Unsung He Martyn Davies, ou

Tina Higginson of Sam brook care home

A no-frills, no glitz or glamour competition - all we ask is for you to send us a paragraph or two nominating your Unsung Hero from any department with a brief description of how they've gone that extra mile and deserve to be recognised.

✓ Do you know our next Unsung Hero?

Email your nomination to us by 12th November 2021 at

nominate@thecareruk.com

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 17

Tax Rises and Government Support Needed To Pay For Social Care Reforms Under current government spending plans, council tax increases of 3.6% per year will be needed for the next three years just to ensure councils can provide the same range and quality of services in 2024–25 as was provided pre-pandemic – which already followed a decade of austerity. This would push up the average annual bill paid by households by £160 by 2024−25, or £77 after accounting for inflation. In fact, this is likely to be a minimum requirement. Bigger increases in underlying demand and cost pressures, or top-ups to other budgets (such as schools) which eat into the amount available for grants to councils, could easily push up the necessary council tax rises to 5% per year, or by over £220 by 2024–25.

In addition, the government’s stated ambitions for social care are underfunded. These are likely to cost £5 billion a year in the longer term, almost three times the additional annual funding currently allocated over the next three years.

These are among the findings of new analysis, published as a prereleased chapter of the 2021 IFS Green Budget, funded by the Nuffield Foundation and in partnership with Citi.

Looking ahead to the forthcoming Spending Review, the chapter finds that relying on council tax alone to deal with funding pressures is unlikely to be sustainable.

Council tax increases alone are unlikely to be sufficient to meet councils’ costs over the next two years given the continuing need for some additional COVID-19-related spending. We project that an increase of 4% in April 2022 could still leave English councils facing a £2.7 billion funding gap in 2022–23. Moreover, councils’ forecasts suggest that they will need a further top-up to their budgets over this winter to meet ongoing COVID-19 pressures.

Council tax increases raise less in poorer parts of the country where more properties are in lower tax bands. For example, increases of 4% a year would raise £89 per person in cash terms by 2024–25 in the richest tenth of council areas, compared with just £61 per person in the poorest tenth. This would mean there would need to be bigger percentage increases in council tax bills to meet rising costs in poorer parts of the country, unless the government redistributes more of its grant funding to such areas.

The chapter also finds that the UK government will very likely have to stump up considerably more for planned reforms to adult social care

services in England.

The government has said it will provide £5.4 billion over three years to begin the roll-out of a new lifetime cap on care costs and more generous means-testing arrangements, as well as higher payments for care providers, increased support for informal carers, investment in housing adaptations and supported housing, and workforce development. Given the scale of what the government wants to achieve, this funding is unlikely to be sufficient to meet the government’s stated aims in full over the next three years.

In the longer term, the annual cost of meeting the government’s ambitions for social care is likely to be around £5 billion a year, almost three times the average annual funding planned over the next three years. Funding for higher pay for care workers, or to enable councils to relax care needs assessments alongside changes to financial meanstesting, could require billions more on top of this.

Finally, the chapter highlights how the formulae used to allocate funding between councils are out of date and in desperate need of reform: Existing funding formulae are still based on population sizes and characteristics in 2013. Yet, for example, the population of Blackpool is estimated to have fallen by more than 2%, while that of Tower Hamlets is estimated to have increased by over 20%. Failure to update funding

formulae to account for changes in population and other factors driving needs means the government is less able to target funding to where it is most needed, potentially pushing up how much funding it has to provide overall.

Kate Ogden, a Research Economist at IFS and an author of the chapter, said: ‘The government has stepped up with billions in additional funding for councils to support them through the last 18 months. It is likely to have to find billions more for councils over the next couple of years if they are to avoid cutting back on services, even if they increase council tax by 4% a year or more. The coming financial year is likely to be especially tough, with the likelihood of at least some ongoing COVID-19-related pressures, and a particularly tight overall spending envelope pencilled in. At the same time, government needs urgently to deal with a local government funding system which is becoming hopelessly out of date, being based on population levels and characteristics in 2013. This results in manifest unfairnesses in the distribution of resources between councils.’

David Phillips, an Associate Director at IFS and another author of the chapter, said: ‘The recently announced social care reforms pose major challenges for councils across England. The funding announced by government so far is unlikely to be enough to meet all of its objectives, in either the short or longer term. Without sufficient funding, councils may find themselves having to tighten the care needs assessments further in order to pay for the care cost cap and more generous means-testing arrangements. That would see some poorer people who would now be eligible losing access to council-funded care, so that coverage can be extended to other, typically financially better-off, people.’

Mark Franks, Director of Welfare at the Nuffield Foundation, said: ‘Despite the government’s recently announced social care plan, even significant council tax increases risk not being sufficient to meet the future demand for local service provision or address staffing issues in the adult social care sector. Currently, many existing adult social care workers only receive minimum wage and zero-hours contracts are common, which has contributed to staff shortages in the sector. Until sustainable funding is in place to address these issues, disabled and older people are at risk of being unable to access the care they need.’

PAGE 18 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Pain is the Leading Cause of Behaviour Changes in Dementia Improving the understanding of how pain affects and changes the behaviour of people living with dementia must form part of the education available to healthcare professionals and family members, says the CEO of medtech company, PainChek®, Philip Daffas.

“Pain tops the list of physical reasons for behavioural changes in people living with dementia*, but it is often poorly recognised and undertreated because of cognitive and communication challenges,” says Philip Daffas of PainChek®, which is the world’s first intelligent pain assessment tool -a hybrid model that uses both artificial intelligence and smart automation, and analyses facial micro-expressions indicative of pain.

“This leads to behavioural and psychological issues, unnecessary prescribing of antipsychotics, and decreased quality of life. Effective assessment and management of pain is crucial to better support high-quality care. With the global population of people living with dementia set to triple by 2050**, everyone, especially the social care workforce, urgently needs support and information about the signs and impact of pain. This also includes how to identify and manage it, to enhance quality of life for people living with dementia and improve the understanding of their carers and loved ones.”

According to Philip, more needs to be done to educate the thousands of people touched by Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia: “Pain causes significant distress and discomfort for everyone, and for people living with dementia, untreated pain is a significant problem that affects their quality of life and behaviour as they are very often unable to communicate their pain. It is a daily challenge for carers and healthcare professionals to assess pain in noncommunicative individuals.

“Knowledge is power when it comes to pain assessment; and the use of technology to generate and collect meaningful data holds the key to addressing the shortfalls in pain assessment, and helps stakeholders to better understand the individual needs of each person living with dementia.”

Philip believes ensuring those living with dementia and potentially in pain are effectively assessed is critical: “This has been the main driver of PainChek®’s latest research, published in our whitepaper: ‘Pain & dementia: common challenges for care managers’.

“For this, we investigated the complex relationship between pain and dementia, examined how pain affects the behaviour of people living with dementia, and the main issues with assessing pain and how these can be overcome.”

PainChek® uses artificial intelligence to detect the presence of a face and landmark facial features, and then applies in real-time a series of algorithms to detect pain-related action units in images captured through a three-second video. This data is combined with observed non-facial indicators of pain imputed using a series of digital checklists by the user, to enable automatic calculation of a pain score and the assignment of a pain intensity level.

“PainChek® provides real-time data through a medical device in their pocket, and a unique colour-coded pain chart output for each care home resident,” explains Philip. “The system also generates monthly management reports for users, which provide care facilities with data on key statistics including tool utilisation, pain assessment frequencies, and distribution of pain. Other key assessment indicators such as follow-up times and outcomes can be accessed as part of the suite of PainChek Analytics.”

“Whilst artificial intelligence is sometimes seen as taking away the human touch,” he adds, “PainChek®’s use of the technology has the opposite effect, by empowering care providers to make informed decisions about pain management and treatment and use the data to plan person-centred, long-term care, as well as giving a voice to those unable to verbalise their pain.”

The Pain & dementia: common challenges for care managers whitepaper is free to download here: https://www.painchek.com/uk/resources/pain-dementia-common-challenges-for-care-managers/ For further information, visit: https://painchek.com/uk/ Indicators of pain in someone living with dementia include***: • Behaviour - fidgeting, restlessness, or reacting with fear or distress • Speech - calling out, groaning or shouting (particularly if this is new behaviour, or has increased) • Sleeping more or less than usual • Body language - appearing panicked, or repetitive movements, such as rubbing or twitching • Facial expressions - grimacing, tensing or frowning • Mood changes - withdrawal or uncharacteristic quietness • Changes in physical state - in temperature, increased pulse, sweating, flushing or appearing pale • Loss of appetite.

Canine Competitors Bid To Be Dorset Care Home’s Top Dog Prize pooches were on parade as a Dorset care home held a charity dog show.

Colten Care’s Brook View in West Moors staged the event as a fun experience for residents and to raise funds to help disabled people in the community.

Staff and residents’ families were invited to bring their pets along to enter classes such as Loveliest Lady, Most Fabulous Fella and Waggiest Tail.

To help with the judging, team members invited dog lover and resident Patricia Upshall to cast her expert eye over the competitors.

After declaring Maison as winner of the Fabulous Fella category, Patricia, who used to breed Dachshunds and belonged to the Kennel

Club, said: “It was a different experience to what I’m used to, but it was great fun. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole afternoon.”

Also among the competitors was Ellie the greyhound, Brook View’s new Pets as Therapy dog.

Brook View’s Companionship Team Leader Sarah Moule said: “Our last community dog show was a couple of years ago and we have been so keen to welcome back such happy, family-friendly events.

“Our residents love dogs. They really help to bring joy and company to people.”

The show was held in support of The Friends of Dolphin, a charity that provides free boat rides from Poole Harbour for people with disabilities.

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

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PAGE 20 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Wisbech Care Home Overwhelmed by Harvest Donations for Local Food Bank and Women’s Refuge Community and family are at the heart of Orchard House Care Home in Wisbech. Since the beginning of the Covid-19 Pandemic the Wisbech Community has shown such kindness and support to the Nursing, Dementia and Residential home; such as deliveries of homemade cakes, food parcels, messages of support and pictures from local school children.

During these difficult times the team at the home know that having a sense of community is really important; where one always looks out for their neighbours and offers help to those who needed it.

So, it was decided during the residents social planning meeting that this year’s Harvest Festival at the home would be a month-long drive collecting donations for the local Wisbech Food Bank and Fenwick Refuge.

Throughout September, resident’s family, friends and staff donated various foods and other products; at one point a new container had to be found to contain the growing mountain of goods, which almost double with a further donation from RCH Care Homes. Lifestyle Lead Miranda Robinson, spoke of the generosity, “Everyone has been so very generous over the last month, so many people have got involved and wanted to support these two worthy causes; even two visiting

over the last few weeks and she even asked her daughter to bring in donations on her behalf so she could help, “I have really enjoyed meeting and thanking everyone for their kind donations to our local charities.

It has been amazing watching the collection grow over the last month and really rewarding boxing it all up to be collected.” Joyce Rowland, Orchard House Resident.

On Friday 1st of October, the donations were collected by Dereck from Wisbech Food Bank and a representative of Fenwick Refuge. On arrival at the home both were overwhelmed by the mountain of donations for each of them. Dereck said “it was very kind of us to think of them and appreciates the support we given them.” The representative from Fenland Refuge said, “We cannot stress how much this will help and how grateful they are for our support during this time” Sarah Watson, the home’s General Manager, expressed her pride and thanks for the donations, “The response to our food drive has been incredible and such a success. Our local food bank and Fenland Refuge Paramedics made a donation of food and told us how wonderful it was that we were supporting our local community and were happy to help.”

Orchard House resident Joyce has been watching the collection grow

were overwhelmed by the generosity of our staff, residents, families and our company RCH. I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone for all your help and support”

A Person-Centred Approach To Mobility and Hygiene Maintaining a level of independence and involvement in activities of daily living for those in your care can be a challenge.

Using the Mobility Gallery™ assessment tool (figure 1) allows you to understand a person’s functional mobility, the level of assistance required, the risk to the caregiver and the importance to stimulate functional mobility.

Person centred care places the resident at the centre of all we do. This assessment tool helps to optimise the mobility of the resident, improve dignified care and reduces the risk of injury to both the resident and the caregiver. Promoting mobility is the driving force behind The Positive Eight™ philosophy shown in figure 2.

When looking at specific hygiene tasks, needs differ significantly across

care settings and need to encompass both physical and cognitive capabilities determined through individual assessment. Assisted hygiene solutions are designed to allow you to work in an ergonomically sound position, to reduce the risk of injury, whilst supporting a beneficial interaction with your resident.

Caregiver safety is paramount, and factors, which affect the risk of musculoskeletal injury, should be considered, such as: • The number, type and functional mobility levels of residents being transferred or participating in hygiene routines • The inadequacy (or absence) of suitable equipment • Restricted spaces • Lack of education and training for care skills To mitigate these risks, evidence has demonstrated that education alone is insufficient. Use of the right equipment improves caregiver safety and reduces injury-related costs for the organisation.

Understanding functional mobility, combined with selection of appropriate equipment to support your resident and caregiver can assist in addressing this challenge.

Visit www.arjo.com or see the advert on page 6.

PAGE 22 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Wonderkin UK, Managing Director, Marites Allen, Talks About Smart Digital Incontinence Aid & Providing Convenience & Confidence in Chronic Care Management Care-giving, in real-time, is an issue that has been looked at again and again in chronic care management- it is not enough to look at if care is being given effectively, but also with efficacy and assurance- to both patients of care and those of the carers. Since the Covid-pandemic, the issue of time, lack of resource, and the disproportions of high quality care are at the heart of this matter.

Wonderkin UK, a brand of digital incontinence pads, and app, is now changing the game quickly by elevating the status quo, and creating wonders through providing convenience and confidence through their digital technological products. Wonderkin UK’s, Managing Director, Marites Allen, tells us in the following interview how products such as Wonderkin’s digital incontinence pads and app are ensuring a better quality of life, for all, as we age; and how we all should think about, our own, not so distant future, when approaching the subject matter of implementing technology into taking care of the elderly and those in care homes and facilities.

Q: HOW DOES YOUR NICE CARE SMART INCONTINENCE PADS AND MONITORING SYSTEM WORK? MA: Smart phone (Smart Mobile Devices) are used as the medium- to which it sets alarms and signals a disruption in the homeostatic condition or the patient. Unlike the regular brands that mainly functions as only a pad, Wonderkin's Bluetooth feature (enable) makes safety ( Provide Real-Time Alert) precautions a function (Compare to other incontinence aids) that no other pads on the market currently offer. With the Nice Care Smart Incontinence aids Real-Time Monitoring Technology and Bluetooth enable sensors, Wonderkin offer carers in elderly care facilities to be notified of the patient's void, sleeping posture, and inactivity in real-time, hence, effectively easing the care-giving process especially pressure care.

Q: WHAT KIND OF ‘REAL’ DIFFERENCE IS A PRODUCT LIKE NICE CARE DIGITAL INCONTINENCE PADS AND

APP MAKING TO STAFF AND PATIENTS IN CARE HOMES AND CARE FACILITIES? MA: Real differences are only felt and seen, through another key factor: prioritisation for care staff. A good example would be body rotation and diaper change, where though they are seemingly simple tasks, it takes workflow, task management, pad stock management to keep it all together and ticking along. The difference with a simple product like pads going digital is that carers are able to keep up and be informed of patients in real-time.

Aside from prioritizing tasks, costs of pad consumption are cut down dramatically, making not only ‘cents’ financially, but ‘sense’ for the environment. Our pads are 70% biodegradable and hence, when you think about it, if every pad can be used to its full potential, with the patient not having skin irritations and rashes, by the way, the product is not only addressing financial costs to institutions like care homes, but also, providing a corporate social responsibility to those who use them. In Japan, for instance, our products have reduced pad consumption from 30K to 20K in facilities.

It is not just about minimising the use of disposable wastes, but improving the quality of sleep for patients, and giving them more dignity, (of not being checked upon constantly) by reducing the number or times a change has to occur during the night.

Q: WHAT OTHER ISSUES DOES WONDERKIN AIM TO SPEARHEAD WITH ITS DIGITAL INNOVATIONS? MA: Another common issue for patients is communication- between their family members and the carers or care home. Our digital innovations give personalised health insights, powered by data that can be easily provided and accessed by both parties. Data protection and that data is being stored securely is paramount to us, and this type of application if it is to be applied to chronic care management. Hence we employ Amazon Web Services (AWS) as our Cloud System provider, which adopts world-class, highly secure data centres utilising state-of-the-art electronic surveillance and multi-factor access control systems. Different access rights are given to various account types within our system, including super admin, general admin, nursing home, nursing home manager and nurse accounts. The data transmission from the Sensor to the Hub is encrypted and contains no client’s data.

For more information or enquiries on Wonderkin’s emerging technology and latest innovation solutions to care-giving in residential nursing and care homes visit: www.wonderkin.co.uk or contact maritesallen@wonderkin.co.uk

Military Members Past and Present Run Royal Parks Half Marathon for Veterans’ Charity Serving members of the military and an Army veteran have raised money for Royal Star & Garter by taking part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon.

Squadron Leader Richard Cheseldene-Culley and Senior Aircraftman Sudeep Maden, based at RAF High Wycombe, and Lieutenant Shane Landymore and Warrant Officer Class 2 (Staff Sergeant Major) Matthew Baker, who are with the Royal Corps of Signals in Stafford, took part in the run through central London on Sunday 10 October.

They were joined by Ross Mewett-Mckinlay, who was in the Army for 12 years and served in the Royal Engineers, where he reached the rank of Lance Corporal. He now works at the Ministry of Justice.

In total, they have so far raised £2,968 for Royal Star & Garter, a charity which provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia, at Homes in Solihull, Surbiton and High Wycombe. This figure is expected to rise as more donations come in.

Sqn Ldr Cheseldene-Culley chose to raise money for the charity for very personal reasons. His father James Cheseldene-Culley, an Army veteran who served in the Korean War and was later a Reservist in the Special Forces with the SAS, was cared for at the old Richmond Home before his death in 2009. The 57-year-old said: “I was with him at Royal Star & Garter the night before he died. The staff were always fantastic and it was a super place. When I came to

Designer Contracts Pulls Out All The Stops To Beat Pandemic Delay Designer Contracts, the UK’s largest flooring contractor, has supplied and fitted a leading West Midlands specialist dementia care living home with safety floorcoverings – despite major delays caused by the second national lockdown.

The company ensured a super-swift turn-around at Dorothy Terry House following a seven month delay on materials – ordered last October – caused by the winter COVID resurgence.

The home at Redditch in Worcestershire is a 42 bedroom retirement complex specialising in dementia care living. Over 1,000 square metres of communal corridors, stairs, landings and lounge areas, spread over five floors, were identified as areas in need of replacement.

Undertaking its first project as a preferred supplier for the Rooftop Housing Group, Designer Contracts was asked to uplift all the existing flooring and replace with PolySafe Wood FX safety vinyl.

Said Adam Denny, asset investment manager for the Rooftop Housing Group: “Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, and it was reassuring that Designer Contracts appreciated their complex needs. The specification we required for the flooring was met exactly with a quick turnaround once the project was signed off.”

PolySafe Wood FX is a high specification safety floor,

perfect for environments such as Dorothy Terry House, combining decorative designs with sustainable slip resistance and high durability. Featuring authentic reproductions of popular and high clarity wood designs, the range incorporates a light to dark colour spectrum with non-intrusive safety aggregates in the vinyl to create a safe yet attractive interior in commercial or residential areas.

Following the success of the Dorothy Terry House project, the Rooftop Housing Group has now instructed Designer Contracts to prepare quotes for a further seven similar sized projects in Worcestershire.

Designer Contracts is based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire and operates across 15 UK regional facilities.

Call 01246 854577 or visit www.DesignerContracts.com for further information.

RAF High Wycombe I was told Royal Star & Garter was one of the charities we support and that there was a Home nearby, so I jumped at the chance of helping in whatever way was required.”

Ross, 34, found out about Royal Star & Garter when looking for good causes to fundraise for. He said: “I knew it had to be a charity affiliated with supporting veterans of the Armed Forces. I discovered Royal Star & Garter and read about the important work they do. Considering I was in the Army for 12 years, I thought it a very worthy charity to be representing.”

Lt Landymore, 23, said: “We found out about the charity through our chain of command and thought it would be a great opportunity to raise money for a remarkable cause.”

Royal Star & Garter’s Senior Community Fundraiser, Lauren Baker, said: “It’s very special when the military family comes together like this to support the work we do with veterans.We’re grateful that Richard, Sudeep, Ross, Matthew and Shane chose to run for Royal Star & Garter.”

Royal Star & Garter is one of RAF High Wycombe’s official charities. Earlier this year, service personnel took part in a car wash fundraiser. They were given a helping hand and supported by residents from the High Wycombe Home, and raised £266.

Three runners raised more than £6,000 for the veterans’ charity Photo supplied by Royal Star & Garter when they took part in the London Marathon on 3 October.

Wedging Fire Doors Open – An Illegal Practice Fire doors are an essential part of your fire safety strategy and could save lives and limit the collateral damage in your care home should a fire break out. Despite this some care facilities turn a blind eye to the practice of wedging a fire door open, putting the lives of vulnerable residents at risk. If you are the responsible person in your care setting, you could face a large fine or even a prison sentence for allowing this illegal and dangerous practice to happen.

To prevent fire doors being wedged open it is important to first understand why staff and sometimes even residents do this. Fire doors must all be self-closing causing staff difficulties when carrying trays and equipment around the care home. Wedging fire doors open in corridors enables them to move quickly and complete their tasks faster.

Residents also can feel trapped and isolated when their bedroom door is constantly closed. Due to the often frail nature of elderly residents and impaired mobility and use of walking aids such as sticks, walkers and wheelchairs, many residents may not be able to open their bedroom door to access communal areas and socialise with other residents and staff. This can have a significant impact on their mental health and can lead to feelings of depression.

Fire doors prevent the spread of fire and create a barrier of protection. Removing this protective barrier

by wedging the fire door open can significantly increase how quick a fire can spread and can severely hinder your evacuation as smoke and fumes from a fire rapidly fill corridors and rooms.

Finding a legal solution to these problems is the only way. A fire door retainer such as the Dorgard has been providing a legal solution for decades. The Dorgard retainers hold the fire door open in normal operation but will close the door when it ‘hears’ the fire alarm.

With three versions, Dorgard original, SmartSound and Pro, there is a Dorgard for all care settings. The type of environment will determine which Dorgard is best suited, giving you the peace of mind that you are meeting all your legislative requirements and ensuring that residents are able to move about as independently as possible.

Dorgard Original and SmartSound are suitable for small to medium sized settings and can be easily installed by a handyman with the SmartSound being used in noisier environments. For larger establishments Dorgard Pro is ideal as it can accommodate up to 500 doors and offers a simple ‘one glance check’ that the entire system is functioning.

For help and advice or more information, please contact Safelincs on 0800 612 7980 visit www.safelincs.co.uk or see the advert on page 29.

PAGE 24 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Playlist for Life Set to Enhance Dementia UK Care with the Power of Music This October, Playlist for Life, a UK charity that encourages the use of personal music for people living with dementia, has announced that it will support and develop Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurses existing knowledge around the therapeutic use of music in dementia care. This project is announced off the back of World Alzheimer’s Month, which took place in September.

This connection between the award-winning music and dementia charity and Dementia UK looks to complement the vital support delivered by Admiral Nurses to people living with dementia and their families in the community and in healthcare settings. As a result, more Admiral Nurses will be able to support families to access this effective intervention.

Playlist for Life’s training is based on more than two decades of research showing that ‘personal music’ – the specific tunes attached to someone’s emotions that can spark memories – can help those living with dementia by alleviating stress, managing symptoms and strengthening relationships with family members and carers.

Made up by familiar songs from a patient’s childhood through to their wedding day and beyond, the personal playlists have been known to improve the lives of those they are curated for, as well as giving families and carers a tool to help connect with those they support. In addition, the health benefits for those using their personalised playlists are undeniable, with one care home in Glasgow reporting a 60% reduction in the use of medication for treating anxiety in people living with dementia.

Dementia UK is the specialist dementia nurse charity. Dementia UK’s

life-changing support to families affected by dementia.

“Music that is meaningful to a person living with dementia can be a lifeline, helping families, carers and healthcare professionals to connect through the soundtrack of a person’s life. These personal playlists benefit both the person living with dementia and the one caring for them by strengthening relationships, easing distress, and promoting person-centred care. We have trained over 7,000 health and social care professionals on the power of playlists and look forward to working with Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurses to further support those living with dementia and raise awareness of the therapeutic use of music more broadly.”

Caroline Scates, Head of Professional and Practice Development at Dementia UK said: “Music is increasingly being used to help people living with dementia connect to past experiences and tap into powerful emotions. It is fantastic to highlight the wider benefits of the therapeutic use of music in dementia by sharing Playlist for Life materials with Admiral Nurses provide life-changing support for families affected by all forms of dementia.

As dementia specialists, Admiral Nurses help families manage complex needs – considering the person living with dementia and the people around them – and they can advise other healthcare professionals too.

Michelle Armstrong-Surgenor, Executive Director at Playlist for Life, said: “We are thrilled to work with Dementia UK to increase understanding of how to use personally meaningful music as part of essential and

Bring Some Festive Cheer to Your Residents Whether it be an NHS hospital, a private hospital a care home or a Dr's Surgery, no where deserves brightening up at Christmas more than these places.

Whilst the majority of the population are at home enjoying the festivities there are people right across the country who are not able to, either because they are too poorly to be at home or they are one of the many Christmas heroes whose rota means they are working and are away from their families and loved ones.

“We get orders for Christmas Trees going into all sorts of NHS establishments from up and down the country…”, says Stephen Evans MD of Christmas Tree World “Some of these are tiny little desktop/bedside trees, or a larger tree for a ward and we’ve even done one that was 30ft tall, outside a brand new hospital”.

These are the reasons why artificial trees are becoming the tree of choice:• It is far cleaner to use than a real tree • Real trees can be cumbersome to erect and damage

With over 30 years of experience, CWE can help you provide safe water systems for your care home, including:

• Water sampling • Legionella compliance • Asset inspection – tanks, calorifiers etc.

• Remedial works • Swimming and spa pool testing

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Admiral Nurses.”

Playlist for Life also works with over 1000 community Help Points around the UK, where people living with dementia, their loved ones and carers can access free advice and materials on how to build personal playlists and use them effectively.

For more information on the training courses or to hear more about Playlist for Life, please visit: www.playlistforlife.org.uk. Additional details can also be found on Playlist for Life’s dedicated training site: training.playlistforlife.org.uk

doors etc when installing them • Real trees drop needles everywhere and damage carpets with moisture • Real trees bring insects and fungal spores into the building which can cause sever long term damage • You can choose the shape of tree to fit the space, full, compact, slim or for very tight spaces pencil.

• When real trees dry out they become a fire hazard https://interestingengineering.com/video/this-videoshows-how-your-dry-christmas-tree-can-cause-a-deadly-house-fire. All Christmas Tree World trees are fire retardant.

Christmas Tree World trees are guaranteed for 10 years but will last at least of 15 years, the cost spread

over 15 years makes them far cheaper than buying 15 real trees In fact, we have supplied that many NHS organisations ordering Christmas Trees from us that it has even spilled over into the world of reality, with Holby City placing an order for a Giant Outdoor Tree for their 2019 Christmas Special.

Whatever tree is purchased from Christmas Tree World, for your healthcare establishment, you can be safe in the knowledge that it is fire retardant (excludes snow flocked trees) and will be looking amazing…… if the nurses have anything to do with it.

Visit www.christmastreeworld.co.uk for special offers.

FORTUNA.BAMBACH YOUR ONE-STOP SOLUTION

Fortuna.Bambach, based in Enfield, is London's largest independent living centre.

We supply everything from daily living aids to highly specialised equipment and services, so we can offer a ‘one-stop shop’ to nursing and residential care homes, local authorities, hospitals and individuals.

Our team of Trusted Assessors and technicians can offer expert advice, and work closely with Occupational Therapists (OTs), and other healthcare professionals to provide individual solutions. Not only do we sell and rent out a wide range of high-quality products, we also provide high standard aftercare including maintenance, LOLER testing and a comprehensive range of training courses.

We provide a range of solutions at competitive prices, so that you don’t have to worry about ensuring that your equipment is safe and compliant.

✓ Wheelchairs, walking aids, seating, profiling beds, daily living aids and more ✓ Rental Options ✓ Adaptations - grab rails, stair lifts, level access showers, ramps, wet rooms ✓ Moving & Handling equipment and training ✓ Maintenance, Repairs and LOLER testing

ORNAMIN: TABLEWARE WITH HIDDEN FEATURES

Ornamin, a market leader in eating and drinking aids, who supply more than 2,000 care institutions worldwide have – in collaboration with Occupational Therapists (OTs) and nurses - developed a range of intelligent and functional tableware for people with cognitive problems or limited motor skills in their hands or arms.

Their range includes mugs with a unique cone-shaped interior design, - which help those with limited neck and arm movement or anyone who is bed bound to drink without assistance - plates and bowls that are non-slip with a sloped base, making it easier to trap the food (useful for those who have problems using their hands), and non-slip grip cutlery that provides a firm hold for a user with clammy, shaky or numb hands.

The stylish designs helps remove the stigma of using ‘special’ tableware, which in turn improves dignity and independence, while also easing the support needed from families, carers or care home staff. All of the products are made using high quality materials which are 100% recyclable, plus they’re durable, light to lift, quiet to use, break-resistant, and BPA FREE.

DRINKUP21: THE HANDS-FREE DRINKING SOLUTION

Drinkup21, is an innovative hands-free drinking system, which can dramatically improve the health of those at risk of dehydration.

This simple but effective product works on the same principle as a cup and drinking straw, but has been designed to enable anyone who cannot lift a cup to drink without assistance (even when arm function is completely lost), making drinking easier, improving fluid intake, and reducing the workload of carers.

Drinkup21 consists of a 1 litre bottle with a cap, a body (holder), a multi-positioning clamp and a flexible arm assembly. It also includes a Consumables Parts Pack containing a drinking tube, bite valve (mouthpiece), elbow connector. A tube cleaning brush is also available.

It can be secured to beds, tables and wheelchairs, and used with water, fruit juice and thickened fluids that contain higher nutritional content, thus providing a simple solution to the serious issue of dehydration in the elderly and those living with disabilities.

Drinkup21 is beneficial for those with conditions including spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, the effects of stroke, dementia, and those who do not recognise the need to drink.

For advice and information: Fortuna.Bambach, 4, Northgate Business Centre, Crown Road, Enfield, London, EN1 1TG. Visit: www.fortunamobility.com

www.fortunamobility.com/ornamin | www.fortunamobility.com/drinkup Email: info@fortunabambach.com Telephone: 020 8805 2020

PAGE 26 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Waterless Bathing Products Could Help Nurses Reduce the Risk of Infection Transmission

By Yvonne Carter, Clinical Director at GAMA Healthcare (https://gamahealthcare.com/) and previously Head of Infection Control at Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust (www.royalfree.nhs.uk) practice, it is fast, minimises discomfort and results in less mess. In two studies, nursing staff have significantly preferred washing without water over traditional bathing.i Built on the experience from GAMA’s founders, the Carell wipes are an easy-to-use bathing solution to clean, moisturise and refresh.

Delivering a full body wash in a single product and no need to spend time gathering supplies. They contain aloe vera and active moisturisers to promote healthy skin. They're dermatologically tested, alcohol, lanolin and paraben free with a patented skin-pH neutral formula.

SPEED AND EFFICIENCY

For both nurses and carers, helping patients with their personal hygiene and bathing are essential components in quality of life and quality of care. Bathing has been argued to have a strong effect on patient well-being and patient comfort.

For immobile patients, sometimes, a body wash in bed is the only option. Traditionally, the bed bath is performed with water and soap.

However, alternatives are increasingly used in health care. Washing without water is one such alternative that has been claimed to provide several advantages, such as improved hygiene and skin condition. In

Wipes replace the need for traditional cumbersome patient cleansing methods, which include preparing bowls, washcloths, soap, lotions and water. They require no towel drying which decreases waste, increases staff compliance and may save money. A time in motion study comparing traditional bed bathing with waterless bathing in elderly care wards was carried out in practice, finding that staff saved 40 minutes whilst delivering care to six patients.i

PATIENT COMFORT AND PREFERENCE In the previously mentioned study, it was found that the experience was preferred by patients and improved staff practice due to the simple one pack one person formulation.i The drying time for the wipes is minimal, reducing the need for abrasive towelling, whilst the wipes themselves are soft. A study showed the prevalence of skin abnormalities in the traditional bathing group

increased overtime, whilst the waterless bathing group observed a decrease in abnormality prevalence.i Additionally, another study showed a significant difference in skin dryness, favouring the waterless group.ii

INFECTION PREVENTION Carell wipes also remove the risk of microorganism transmission associated with wash bowl contamination, risks from re-using washbowls between patients, spillage, non-drying of washbowls or less than effective decontamination between washbowl uses. Improved patient cleanliness reduces the number of microorganisms present to transfer to healthcare workers, visitors and the environment The wipes are designed for use on each area of the body and can be used and disposed of safely, breaking the chain of transmission via bath basins. Once waterless bathing has been completed, wipes can be resealed in their original packaging and safely disposed of. This reduces the risk of outbreaks and HCAIs associated with drainage systems.

A randomised trial into the cost-consequence of washing without water revealed there is no difference in costs verses traditional bed bathing, making waterless washing the more efficient alternative.i Find out more about Carell Wipes and access to dedicated training/resources on waterless bathing https://gamahealthcare.com/carell i https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25173772/ ii https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-017-0425-4

Care Trainers Launch Fund-Raising Campaign For New Dementia Simulation Suits That Enable Caregivers To ‘Experience’ Impairments A UK care group has launched a fundraising campaign to acquire five pioneering age simulation suits to enable caregivers to experience the impairments of older people with dementia – giving them a greater understanding of those they care for.

Meaningful Care Matters, a care and culture consultancy based in Brighton, has set up a fundraising page for £5,000 to enable the group to purchase five stateof-the-art GERonTologic (GERT) suits from Germany, that can be used to train its partners across the UK, Ireland, and Canada.

The innovative, full-body age simulation suits offer the latest technology in experiencing age-related impairments, such as opacity of the eye lens, narrowing of the visual field, high-frequency hearing loss, head mobility restrictions, joint stiffness, loss of strength, reduced grip ability, and reduced coordination skills.

Operated by either the handler via a computer or the suit wearer using a handheld device, the suits will give people a better understanding of older people’s behaviour by allowing them to experience the common sensomotoric skills in old age. Accessories can also be added to simulate tremors, tinnitus, kyphosis, hemiparesis, and knee and back pain.

Meaningful Care Matters, who specialise in helping care homes to access a variety of services facilitating the effective and sustainable implementation of person-centred care models, hope to use the suits as part of its training courses. They will give those who work directly with older people in health, social/aged, and

disability care settings the chance to put themselves in their shoes.

Peter Bewert, Managing Director of Meaningful Care Matters, said: “We’re raising funds to purchase newly developed sensory tools and equipment to not only facilitate the sensations of living with a dementia, but turn these feelings and emotions into tangible approaches through our training to improve people’s overall lived experience. Ultimately, we want to help change the future of care education and delivery by creating modern, experiential resources for both professionals and family carers alike.”

A study at the Julius-Maximilian University of Würzburg tested the suits on medical students and found 83% of participants empathised more with life in old age, while 90% found it beneficial to put themselves in the situation of an older person. In addition, 95% of the participants evidenced greater comprehensibility of the physical condition of elderly people.

Peter continued: “Covid-19 has been devastating for us all, particularly in health and social care where we‘ve experienced isolation and a lack of social connection. The lack of physical connections, touch, sensory stimulation, and emotional contact with loved ones is challenging at best, soul-destroying at worst. When combined with dementia or cognitive impairments, a significant adverse impact on the health and emotional wellness of people in care has been clearly seen, felt, and heard.

“There have been highs and lows and people have had to endure some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable. One thing we all agree on is the need for change. The time for change through education is now and we can be the change we wish to see.”

These are exciting times for Meaningful Care Matters, with the group preparing to launch a charity later this year to help create awareness, facilitate change, and support cultures of care grounded in feelings and emotions. More details will be announced in due course.

To view Meaningful Care Matters’ GoFundMe page, visit https://tinyurl.com/43p4p745 For more information on Meaningful Care Matters, visit https://meaningfulcarematters.com

The Care Show Returns to the NEC Birmingham CloserStill Media, organisers of the Care Show, are looking forward to opening their doors on the 13th & 14th October at the NEC Birmingham to welcome you all to the main event in the 2021 social care calendar. The Care Show is back and ready to be the safest space for rediscovery and learning, whilst offering interactive opportunities to network with each other in a comfortable setting.

It is time to celebrate the great and the good from care homes, nursing homes, and domiciliary care providers and reunite the care community.

The Care Show has been the gathering point for the care sector for over 20 years and is dedicated in assisting you to upskill and find the best solutions that will allow you to save time. The event provides 80+ all-important CPD accreditation conference sessions led by experts, which allows you to leave the show and improve your services right away. You can expect to acquire new practical hands-on training and discover answers to problems you are facing in the care sector by reconnecting with other care professionals. With over 200+ leading healthcare suppliers in our exhibition hall you will have the opportunity to ask for their expert advice.

Whilst giving you access to thousands of the latest product and services with exclusive show deals to make your budget go further.

New for 2021 is an energised and refocused event for everyone involved. The programme has been carefully designed to provide you with everything you need to know to help improve the quality of your care and run an outstanding care business! It will address topics on how the sector is planning for changing client needs, new technologies that are being utilised in care settings, and case studies on what is really working.

This year the Care Show will focus on key themes including: • Build & Design – the latest innovative products and services from design through to build • People - everything workforce and leadership related • Technology – find out what the latest modernisations are in this area for use in a care or nursing home or as a domiciliary care provider • Delivering Better Care - both within your premise and/or in the community • Business Services – key tips on assisting the running of your business • Dementia – looking at what skills and services can be offered to make caring for those with Dementia easier and more rewarding • Infection Prevention – reviewing what have we learnt from the pandemic to prepare us for the future View our full programme at https://tinyurl.com/w6fp28cm There is something for everyone. To ensure you get the most out of the exhibition we have created tailor made road maps to highlight the most relevant stands and sessions depending on your interests, ensuring that you don’t miss out on the outstanding content that you came for.

Face-to-face networking has been missed, so this year we have created more opportunities to re-connect with the inclusion of more lounges and networking zones for you to come together, share stories, recharge, and be with other care professionals. We hope to see you there in October!

The Care Show continues to be free for all care providers, ensure you register online at https://www.careshow.co.uk/the-carer

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New Film Launched Urging Public to Get Flu Jab and Covid-19 Booster to Maintain Vital Protection This Winter Those eligible for the free flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster jab are being urged to book their appointments as soon as possible in a new film campaign launched aiming to help people give themselves and their loved ones the best possible protection this winter.

The new film sees media medics Dr Amir Khan, Dr Dawn Harper and Dr Karan Ranj explain why it is more important than ever for people to get their winter vaccines as soon as possible this autumn, as both viruses have the potential to cause serious illness and hospitalisation.

The campaign is launched as new research released today suggests that adults in England are severely underestimating the combined threat of COVID-19 and flu this winter.

There could be a significant flu surge this winter coinciding with continuing or rising COVID-19 cases. This is due to colder weather which favours transmission, darker nights which mean increased social contact indoors where it is less well ventilated, and expected lower immunity to flu due to lower levels in circulation last winter.

A recent survey seeking views from 3,000 participants found that nearly one third (32%) were unaware that flu and COVID-19 can circulate at the same time, over a quarter (26%) did not know that flu can be fatal and over half (55%) underestimated the number of people who die from flu in an average year in England (which is approximately 11,000).

Even those deemed high risk for covid-19 had low awareness of the possible dangers. Nearly a quarter of those over 50 (24%) and 29% of those with long term health conditions,(who are a priority group for the COVID-19 booster and an eligible group for the flu vaccine), were unaware that flu and COVID-19 could circulate at the same time. Over a third (37%) of pregnant women, who are an eligible group for a free flu vaccine, were also unaware that you can still catch flu if you’ve had the COVID-19 vaccine.

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Sajid Javid, said: “This year we are rolling out the largest flu vaccine programme in our history, alongside the new COVID-19 booster vaccine rollout; both are important to provide vital protection not only to yourself, but also your loved ones while also helping to ease pressure on the NHS. “The COVID-19 vaccine programme is a fantastic example of how successful vaccination programmes can be – with around 130,000 lives saved. It is vital we continue that incredible progress with all those eligible ensuring they get both their flu and COVID-19 booster injections as soon as they are invited.

The research showed some misunderstanding of flu in particular, with around one in ten (9%) saying they thought the COVID-19 vaccination would protect them against flu. More than one in ten (13%) also believed with the statement that flu is ‘a disease of the past’, with a further one in five (20%) who did not know or were unsure that flu is spread by coughs, sneezes and can live on hands and surfaces – similar to COVID-19.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, said: “Not

many people got flu last year because of COVID-19 restrictions, so there isn’t as much natural immunity in our communities as usual. We will see flu circulate this winter; it might be higher than usual and that makes it a significant public health concern.

“COVID-19 will still be circulating and with more people mixing indoors, sadly some increases are possible. For the first time we will have COVID-19 and flu co-circulating. We need to take this seriously and defend ourselves and the NHS by getting the annual flu jab and the COVID-19 booster when called.

“Both these viruses are serious: they can both spread easily, cause hospitalisation and they can both be fatal. It is really important that people get their vaccines as soon as they can.”

Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UK Health Security Agency, said: “We are facing a challenging winter but we can all help ourselves and those around us by taking up the COVID-19 booster and flu vaccine, if eligible.

“Getting vaccinated against both viruses will not only help to protect us and our loved ones, but will also help protect the NHS from potential strain this winter.”

Now that people are able to socialise more with far fewer restrictions in place compared to last year, vaccines provide vital protection for the public, by protecting individuals and those around them.

Up to an estimated 131,300 lives have been saved by the COVID-19 vaccine so far – and up to 24.3 million infections prevented. The flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster vaccines offer the best protection from these life-threatening viruses.

Despite low awareness of the threat of both flu and COVID-19 this winter, the survey findings revealed vaccine confidence levels were still high with over 8 in 10 (83%) of those double-vaccinated saying they would get the COVID-19 booster vaccine if offered and two in three (66%) of all adults in England saying they would get the flu jab.

After restrictions put in place to protect the public from COVID-19 last

Christmas, the main incentives people listed in the new survey included the desire to be with family at Christmas this year, with two in five (41%) citing this as a reason to get the COVID-19 booster vaccine and nearly a quarter (24%) for flu.

NHS deputy vaccination programme lead Dr Nikki Kanani said: “The NHS COVID-19 vaccine programme, the largest and most successful in NHS history, has protected millions of people and saved around 130,000 lives.

“Flu and COVID-19 both cost lives and the increased threat from the two deadly viruses this winter makes it even more important for people to continue sticking to good habits like washing their hands regularly.

“It’s important anyone eligible comes forward for a flu vaccine as soon as possible and books in their booster when they are invited – the vaccines are safe, effective and the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones this winter.”

Dr Amir Khan, NHS doctor and regular on ITV’s This Morning, said: “We are well aware of the threat posed by COVID-19 by now, but we can’t forget about flu which can also be deadly. Both viruses have the potential to cause serious illness and hospitalisation this winter.

“Luckily, we know the best form of protection is to get vaccinated against both viruses and they are free to those eligible.”

Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK said: “This year it’s more important than ever to take up the offer of a flu jab and COVID-19 booster. Both illnesses are fully capable of taking a terrible toll on an older person but being vaccinated will help keep you, and those around you, safe and well through the winter months to come.

“We’re so lucky to live at a time and in a country that makes these potentially lifesaving protections available, please don’t spurn the opportunity to benefit from them when it arrives.”

Those eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccine should book as soon as they are invited, with around 30 million people eligible for a COVID19 booster vaccine.

Those eligible for a free flu vaccine should come forward to get it as soon as possible. Last year, the free flu vaccine was offered to 30 million people, this year the programme is being expanded again to the largest in history offering it to over 35 million people who are eligible.

To check your eligibility for the flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster vaccine or to find a service visit nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.

Eligible people can book an appointment for their flu jab at either their GP practice or their local pharmacy. Those who are pregnant can ask for their free flu jab at their local maternity service.

The campaign is also supported by a coalition of leading charities and healthcare professional bodies, including The Royal College of General Practitioners, The Royal College of Midwives, Asthma UK, The British Lung Foundation and Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

See the film at www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQitHbIXyN8

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 29

Call to End The 'Short-Termism' Over Investment In Social Care The funding of adult social care is due for an overhaul, and the government has laid out plans for this in recent weeks.

The National Care Forum (NCF) – the leading association for not for profit care providers – have submitted a Report to the Chancellor of recommendations to include in the upcoming Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR).

Vic Rayner OBE, CEO of the National Care Forum said: “Following the recent announcement of the Health and Social Care Levy, the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR21) now needs to take the next steps to recognise and harness the economic potential social care brings at a local, regional and national level. Social Care must be seen as an essential part of the nation’s infrastructure, which can result in a more ambitious future for social care reform.

“All eyes are on the government’s new Levy as the way ahead for social care, yet the Spending Review will only tell part of the story of a complex patchwork of funding streams which combine in a way that appears to continue to leave everything to the last minute to understand exactly what funding will be available for the vital care of our citizens.

Adult social care is a major economic driver in the UK and contributes to local economies in every part of the country. Investment in adult social care is a very important avenue through which the government can ensure its spending review aims are met.

The announcement of £5.4bn over three years for adult social care in England as part of the new Levy can only ever be the beginning of what needs to be a much more expansive, co-produced and fundamental reform. This is the only way the burden on other parts of the public sector, including the NHS, will reduce and people receive the quality of care and support they want and need to live their lives well.

Rayner continues:“A larger share of the Levy needs to be apportioned to adult social care now and in the future if we are to see a transformed

sector and harness and increase the £41.2bn worth of economic value the sector brings and ensure it can deliver to those that need it. The £5.4bn over three years falls considerably short of the additional £7bn per year recommended as a starting point for reform by the Health and Social Care Select Committee and the additional £3.9bn recommended by the Health Foundation to increase workforce salaries. Our submission also includes a call for the increases in National Insurance contributions to fund the Health and Care Levy to be paid for social care employers, just as they are for health.

“This CSR can build on the government’s Plan for Health and Care and end the short-termism over investment. We need to stop lurching from one announcement of emergency funding to another, and devise a streamlined long-term social care investment plan that maximises the investment potential, ensures funding reaches the frontline and ensures greater transparency about investment, wider economic benefits and returns to society.”

Widnes Residential Care Home Dedicates Garden To Late Friend A residential care home for disabled adults with complex care needs in Widnes has celebrated the life of a lady who lived at the service who recently passed away with a dedication in its garden.

The staff at Warrington Road wanted to transform the garden space for the individuals they support, bringing colour to the patio area.

In addition to plants and garden ornaments, they created a rockery in memory of their friend Josie Meaney.

They painted pebbles in memory of Josie, then

the darker evenings too.

Mandy Williams-Vance, Team Leader at Warrington Road, said: “We revamped the garden as part of the Salutem in Bloom initiative, and we’re delighted with how lovely the garden looks.

“It’s important to us that the individuals we support are fully involved with our decisions, and when they suggested creating a memorial to Josie, I thought it was a brilliant idea. She was a lovely lady, and we were

placed them at the base of the rockery and added

great friends, it is really nice to have somewhere we

some solar lights so the garden could be enjoyed in

can go in the garden to remember her.”

PAGE 30 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Health Secretary’s Speech “Underlines Gap Between Aspirations And Reality, Says MHA MHA, the country’s largest charitable care provider, has responded to Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid’s speech to the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester earlier this week.

In his speech the Health Secretary promised to “build a future where our health and social care systems are integrated more seamlessly together”, adding 2022 would be “a year of renewal and reform”.

He laid out his plans for a review of leadership and management in health and social which will be led by retired General, Sir Gordon Messenger, adding: : “This will be the most far-reaching review since Roy Griffith’s report to Margaret Thatcher in 1983.

“It will shine a light on the outstanding leaders who drive efficiency and innovation, and see how we can replicate that leadership throughout the country.”

Chief executive Sam Monaghan (pictured above) commented: “The speech

from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has underlined the gap between political aspirations and the reality on the ground for people who need good quality care right now.

“Across the social care sector, the staffing crisis means fewer care places for older people. Even as a large charity, MHA was forced to close 10% of our care homes to new admissions on average over the past month, which means more older people are staying in hospital when they don’t need to be there.

“The Government needs to tackle this crisis now, by enabling more care workers from overseas to work in the UK using Skilled Worker visas, launching a national recruitment campaign, and funding a bonus to recognise the dedication of the care workforce. Without urgent intervention, the Secretary of State’s expectations of improved performance in the NHS cannot be met.”

Care Home Residents Go For Gold With Macmillan Fundraising The Macmillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning became a truly ‘glittering’ occasion at 21 care homes across the south.

As they raised their mugs and tucked into fresh homemade cakes and pastries, hundreds of Colten Care residents and staff enjoyed a Willy Wonka-style twist on the annual charity get-together.

Chefs at each home in Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and West Sussex included a ‘Golden Cupcake’, with an edible golden centre, in every batch of cakes they baked and served.

Each lucky recipient of the tasty treat has been entered into a draw with the chance to win a prize worth £500 – made up of £250 in shopping vouchers and an equivalent £250 donation from Colten Care to Macmillan on their behalf. The overall winner will also win a bottle of bubbly.

Amid smiles and laughter all round, Frank Garrett, a resident at Wellington Grange in Chichester, was overjoyed to ‘strike gold’.

Frank said: “I couldn’t believe it, what a fantastic surprise. I hope I win the champagne.”

As well as the search for a golden cupcake, this year’s Macmillan fun at Colten Care included a ‘soak the manager’ challenge.

Residents and colleagues at Wellington Grange stepped up to pelt Home Manager Helen Smith with wet sponges or watched from the sidelines.

“What a fun afternoon it was and what a good sport Helen was for accepting the challenge,” said resident Joan Malcolm. “It was a huge

At Woodpeckers in Brockenhurst, the garden echoed to the sounds of ‘Savoy Songs’ with residents singing along to jazz standards played live by two musicians from the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and led by Colten Care’s Music and Arts Partner Fiona Pritchard.

Resident Audrey Wainwright said: “I really enjoyed the afternoon in the sunshine singing along with the music. The staff worked so hard to put it on.”

Among residents at other homes, Ken Vivian, who lives at Brook View in West Moors, Dorset, said: “I have always supported Macmillan.

It’s a very worthy cause and I think fundraising is important to raise people’s awareness.”

Ken’s sentiments were shared by Colten Care Operations Director Elaine Farrer who said: “The Macmillan coffee morning is an ideal opportunity to have fun while raising money to help fight cancer in the process. It’s something we are proud to take part in every year.”

Research by Macmillan Cancer Support has shown that the number of people living with a cancer diagnosis in the UK is set to rise from 2.5 success and Helen was well and truly soaked.”

There were also raffles and cake sales at various homes, plus stalls selling gift items donated by community friends or made by residents in arts and crafts activities.

million to around four million by 2030. Funds raised at the annual coffee morning provide help and support for cancer patients, family members and carers. For more information, visit www.macmillan.org.uk.

Royal College of Nursing Indicative Ballot of Members in Scotland Opens The Royal College of Nursing has launched its indicative ballot of members working in the NHS in Scotland on industrial action.

The aim of the ballot is to establish what industrial action RCN members would be willing to take in support of their trade dispute with the Scottish government and NHS employers over pay.

The ballot will be open until 12 noon on Monday 8 November.

RCN member representatives agreed to conduct an indicative ballot after what they felt was a lack of meaningful progress from the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care following the RCN members vote to reject the Scottish government’s pay offer earlier this year. RCN members remain seriously concerned about the NHS staffing crisis and patient safety.

Nursing staff are highly skilled and responsible for providing expert and complex care 24 hours a day. Despite their safety critical role,

staffing levels are at crisis point, with nursing and midwifery vacancies in the NHS at a record high.

In Northern Ireland, a formal pay announcement is still awaited. In England, RCN members will be asked to vote in an indicative ballot, the date of which is still to be determined, and members in Wales will be announcing their next steps in due course.

Commenting on the launch of the ballot, Julie Lamberth, Chair of RCN Scotland Board, emphasised just how undervalued and demoralised nursing staff are feeling.

“After 18 months of bearing the brunt of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and a decade of being undervalued and under-resourced, more and more nursing staff are saying enough is enough,” Julie said.

“The Scottish government and NHS employers need to stop paying lip service to the immense contribution nursing staff make to health and care services. They need to take very seriously our concerns about what’s happening now and what will happen in the future without effective action.

“We want to see effective measures to stop experienced staff walking away from their jobs, and a fair pay award that properly recognises our skills, expertise and level of responsibility and maintains nursing as an

attractive career choice for the younger generation. The Scottish government did improve the offer to senior staff on higher pay bands after pressure from the RCN but while that was welcome it's not enough.

“It’s a last resort and extremely difficult decision for nursing staff even to consider industrial action. It’s now up to RCN members to decide what the next steps will be.”

Graham Revie, Chair of the RCN Trade Union Committee, said: “Nursing staff from across the country are leading the campaign for fair pay from the front and the RCN Trade Union Committee and RCN Scotland Board need to hear the views of members.

“Our members were very clear in telling the Scottish government that the NHS pay award was completely unacceptable – it fails the test of fairness and it fails to address the current crisis by not taking action to safely staff our wards and clinics.

“With the vote open across Scotland, the power is once again in the hands of nursing staff. I urge as many members as possible to speak up and tell us whether they believe industrial action is needed to turn things around for our patients.”

PAGE 32 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

HC-One Embraces Harvest Festival Celebrations and the New Season

With the change in seasons and the crisp cold and dark nights fast approaching, HC-One care homes across the country celebrated Harvest Festival, which is a religious event that marks the start of autumn, with a range of creative activities.

To mark Harvest Festival, HC-One care homes participated in arts and crafts sessions to create Harvest Festival decorations and displays for their home including corn dollies, scarecrows and autumnal wreaths; built on relationships with their local churches and community; played Harvest Festival music, danced and sang Hymns and songs; played games and quizzes; reminisced about past Harvest Festivals, reflected on being thankful and enjoyed a selection of mouth-watering refreshments.

Colleagues and Residents at Clarendon Hall Care Home in Grimsby, Lincolnshire, celebrated this year’s Harvest Festival by participating in a

range of activities including creating decorations such as corn dollies and even created their very own scarecrow.

The Harvest Festival celebrations got into full swing with everyone joining in and singing Hymns.

Residents also reminisced and talked about Harvest Festivals they participated in previously.

Chef Julie Williams, made a fruit platter which Residents were delighted with and thoroughly enjoyed.

At Woodside Court Care Home in Glenrothes, Fife Residents combined their annual Harvest Festival with some autumn arts and crafts including creating autumnal wreaths for everyone to admire.

Residents enjoyed making the autumnal wreaths and using warm colours and pictures to create bright and eye-catching wreath displays. The wreaths were then displayed around the home for all to see and admire. Residents and Colleagues were pleased with the finished results.

Home Manager at Woodside Court Care Home, Mahri Edgar commented:

“Arts and crafts are one of our Residents favourite activities, they love seeing the end results and enjoy chatting.”

Autumnal crafts and displays were created as part of Harvest Festival activities at Pendleton Court Care Home in Salford, Manchester, as Residents helped to create some autumn themed pumpkins.

Through using resources such as bags, old paper, glue and tissues, Residents created a wonderful autumnal display for all to enjoy in the home. Residents and Colleagues who got involved had a lot of fun and got very messy in the process.

At The Harefield Care Home in Uxbridge, Middlesex, Residents have been building relationships and forming strong ties with their local church and community in celebration of the Harvest Festival. The Harefield has always been committed to having a good relationship and friendships with the local community, and this year’s Harvest Festival presented a great opportunity to build on this relationship.

Irene, a Resident at the care home was accompanied to the home’s local church hall, St. Mary’s where she enjoyed a two-course dinner to celebrate and mark the Harvest Festival celebrations. Irene ate a delicious quiche and garden salad for the main course and had a scrumptious apple pie with custard for pudding. She enjoyed sitting and chatting with some of the regular church attendees after the meal and enjoyed taking part in the quiz and raffle. The name of the quiz was named after Irene, and to top off the night, St. Mary’s Church raised over £100 for charity.

Resident at The Harefield Care Home, Irene Mickleson said: “I’ve had such a wonderful night, so many laughs and the food was fantastic!”

Scottish Carers Win Top Awards Top carers and nurses from care provider, Meallmore Ltd have been recognised for their outstanding dedication at the 2021 Meallmore Staff Awards The awards, now in its 10th year, has returned after a break in 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Members of staff, residents and family members from Meallmore’s 26 care homes across Scotland came together virtually for the 2021 celebrations.

Presented by singer and TV personality, Michelle McManus, the awards recognise employees who have had a significant impact on improving the lives of residents, family members of residents and colleagues over the past twelve months.

This year, there were eleven awards categories, including Nurse of the Year and Positive Impact. Nominations were put forward by residents, residents’ families, visiting professionals and staff. The company employs around 1,700 people, all of whom were eligible for a nomination.

Each care home was provided with a party pack and treats to get staff and residents in the party mood and join in with celebrations.

On presenting the awards, Michelle McManus said: “I am so excited to be back hosting the Meallmore Staff Awards for 2021. I’m honestly thrilled that I get to be part of this awards ceremony and that I get to announce the incredible finalists and present the worthy winners. Each person working for Meallmore makes such a big impact on their care home, and they should be so proud.

“I can’t even imagine how tough this last 18 months have been, but that’s exactly why these awards are so important. The key workers are what make Meallmore work and I’m glad to celebrate each and every person who works for this care group. Thank you to the team at Meallmore for inviting me to be part of this year’s ceremony.”

Gerry Hennessey, Managing Director of Meallmore, said: “Recognising the hard work of all our staff is extremely important to everyone at Meallmore, and this has never been more so than during the COVID-19 pandemic. It really has been an exceptionally difficult 18 months, but these awards are all about celebrating the incredible people at Meallmore who have made a real difference.

“Our awards are always one of the highlights of the year and we’re so glad that after a year away, we can once again bring together our teams from across the country to celebrate the outstanding performance and dedication from each member of staff – even if this year it is virtually!

“Congratulations to all our shortlisted nominations as well as our worthy winners. I would personally like to thank all our Meallmore staff who go above and beyond to provide the highest standards of care for our residents. A big thank you also goes to Michelle McManus who once again has shown support for the work that we do.”

Winners were presented with a certificate, trophy and choice of prize, which included an Apple Watch, iPad or Nintendo Switch, with runners up receiving a certificate of recognition.

Ideal Carehomes Says Thank You to Frontline Staff with £1.5M Investment All hourly paid staff will receive a 5% salary increase in recognition of their commitment throughout the Covid-19 pandemic Residential and dementia care provider, Ideal Carehomes, has announced a £1.5M per annum investment in its team by awarding a 5% salary increase to all hourly paid staff. This is on top of the 2% increase already applied in April this year and takes all salaries above the current real living wage.

All frontline care staff will benefit from the rise, which will mean over £1000 extra per year for a Care Assistant before tax, and Ideal Carehomes has put the increase in place as a thank you for their continued dedication.

Managing Director, Stacey Linn, said, “I am so proud of the whole Ideal Carehomes team. They put themselves on the frontline throughout the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and were full of courage and commitment at a time when we all knew very little about the virus. Our pay rates were already higher than average but this 5% extra is a thank you for everything our dedicated and highly skilled teams have done and continue to do.”

The substantial pay rise comes shortly after Ideal Carehomes organ-

ised a glittering internal awards ceremony to celebrate team members who have gone above and beyond in their roles. It also reflects the ongoing focus on supporting employees who have worked through recent challenging times. Staff have been given access to onsite counselling services, a wellbeing pathway has been put in place for physical and mental health and each team member received a HERO medal as a keepsake of the role they played on the frontline of the pandemic.

Luan Barlow, Senior Care Assistant at Windsor Court in Wetherby, said, “The last 18 months have been difficult to say the least but I have always felt supported and valued. Working in the care sector is a vocation and we don’t do it for money, but to know that you are appreciated by your employer means a lot.”

Stacey continued: “We are a people business and our people are at the core of everything we do. It is our job to ensure that they are rewarded for their dedication and commitment via employee recognition and pay but also by supporting them through the tough times. As we all welcome a return to our ‘new normal’, our team continues to provide outstanding care for our residents and we will continue to care for our team.”

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 33

Stronger Together Community Choir Sings Their Way To Success To Win Care Sector’s Got Talent 2021

Stronger Together Community Choir’s celebration of coming together during lockdown wins national talent contest!

Championing Social Care is on a mission to inspire a wider and deeper public understanding, appreciation and respect for social care. This mission alongside their huge appetite for fun was exactly why they launched Care Sector’s Got Talent this summer!

It would be hard not to recognise how, since the global pandemic took hold, that restrictions in visiting care homes has impacted those living and working in the care sector. Without families to visit and the ability to bring entertainers and outside agencies in, life could have felt isolated but the vast talent from care teams and service uses has kept everyone’s spirits high. From Tik Tok dances to brilliant original songs we have seen incredible talent everywhere.

Care Sector’s Got Talent was the perfect opportunity to celebrate that with individuals from across the sector submitting audition tapes in the hope of being invited to the live final. From magic to singing in a bin we truly saw it all! The independent shortlisting judges commented on how incredible it was to see such diversity in acts, including a great mix of those living and working in the sector.

Our ten shortlisted candidates performed live in front of our incredible judging panel. Angela Boxall, COO Majesticare and Championing Social Care Founding Patron said ‘the final was spectacular, every single day we see how incredibly talented our sector is but this event provided

everyone with the perfect opportunity to celebrate that and Sparkle for Social Care.’

All the outstanding finalist upped their game for their live performance and while all the performers were truly outstanding The Stronger

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The group truly ‘wowed’ judges with their incredibly catchy song but also they demonstrated exactly what both this event and the whole care sector is about, supporting each other as we are stronger together.

Speaking about the song, Kevin Phoenix said: “Stronger Together is a song of unity, hope, thanks and a reminder of these historic times we are living in. That we are and were Stronger Together.”

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PAGE 34 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Celebration For Care Staff Going The Extra Mile During Covid The willingness of staff and residents at a Bridgwater dementia care home to ‘go the extra mile’ during the pandemic has been recognised with a special party and awards to acknowledge and celebrate their work.

Members of the team at Avalon, a specialist nursing home run by award-winning

living their lives to the full, each according to their own special situation.

“The pandemic presented the care sector with all kinds of well-publicised challenges, but outsiders were not necessarily aware of the lengths our staff went to

care provider Camelot Care, were delighted to receive individual awards recognising

protect residents, and how creative they were in coming up with alternative ways to

the individual effort they have contributed over the past 18 months.

make sure their lives continued to be interesting and fulfilling despite all the restric-

Jess Hawker, manager of Avalon, said: “We wanted to find a way to let our team know that the extra-special effort and dedication they always put in – but particularly since March 2020 – has genuinely been appreciated.

“Residents at a dementia care home like Avalon deserve great facilities, of course, but what they need more than anything is a loving, caring team to ensure they are

tions that have been in place.

“My team have been absolute heroes and we really wanted them to know we understood the personal sacrifices they often made, and that we appreciated their perseverance and ever-caring approach, even when the going was really tough.”

Belong Chair Named Chairperson of The Year Nicola Brooks, Chair of the Board for dementia care specialists, Belong, has been named Social Care Chairperson of the Year (North West England) at CEO Monthly’s Chairperson Awards 2021.

Recognising excellence in leadership, performance and longevity, the award is testament to Nicola’s hard work, dedication and effort throughout the challenges faced in one of the sectors most hard-hit by the global pandemic.

Since being appointed over two years ago, Nicola’s biggest challenge to-date saw her continued passion for people development and human resources expertise help navigate Belong through the Coronavirus crisis.

The organisation’s outstanding response was recognised when it achieved re-accreditation as a Gold Investors in People in the midst of the first wave when assessors praised “an empowering leadership style, high-quality communication and the positive impact of culture on resident outcomes achieved, so far, during Covid-19.”

Further success was seen at the 2020 Great North West Care Awards, where Belong’s efforts as an employer ‘going above and beyond’ during the pandemic saw the care leader take home the Social

Care Covid Hero Team award.

Nicola’s remit has also included overseeing Belong’s plans to extend its provision of services to people in new locations, as well as maintaining the not-for-profit organisation’s reputation as a standard bearer and innovator in the social care space.

Belong’s newest care village, set to open in Chester in early 2022, will include an integrated nursery provision, where children and older people can spend time together building meaningful relationships, making the setting the first of its kind in North West England.

Speaking of her win, Nicola Brooks, Chair of the Belong Board said: “I’m honoured to receive this award; it’s a privilege to work with the very dedicated and talented people in Belong and I look forward to building on the organisation’s continued success to enable more older people to live an active later life.”

Tracey Stakes, Belong Chief Executive, added: “Nicola is a person of high integrity, extremely committed to ensuring that Belong focuses on the right areas and that we maintain quality services and good governance. The testament of colleagues is perhaps the highest praise – Nicola’s impact has been felt by all around her and we can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.”

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Working in the care sector is certainly demanding, so our objective is to make it convenient and straightforward for workers to upskill and acquire confidence in the process.

The Laser Care Certificate course provides knowledge to cover every standard included in the official Skills for Care specification. Every lesson includes bespoke video tutorials specifically for the Care Certificate course, as well as reading materials and good practice examples. Furthermore, a mandatory quiz at the end of each lesson (which requires a 100% pass mark) ensures both competence and confidence.

Managers are able to create their own accounts to enrol staff on the course and track their progress. All of the content is accessible remotely via computer,

smartphone or tablet, enabling care professionals to make progress towards the certificate in a way that suits their circumstances.

Additionally, Laser delivers CPD short courses to equip staff with highly-relevant skills and knowledge so they can tackle new challenges or progress in their career.

Two courses in particular – ‘Causes and spread of infection’ and ‘Infection control and prevention’ – were very popular during the pandemic. Unlimited use subscriptions are available at affordable rates, for organisations wishing to take advantage of a large number of short courses.

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PAGE 36 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Ground-Breaking Falls Prevention Programme Features In World Health Organization Report A trailblazing programme designed to reduce falls in older people has received international recognition after being highlighted in a World Health Organization report.

The Falls Management Exercise programme (FaME) targeted those at risk of falls in Leicestershire, Rutland and Derby, delivering specialist classes led by postural stability instructors over the course of 24 weeks.

The classes were shown to improve balance, walking speed and reduce fear of falling, all the while helping to increase physical activity and reduce falls. Those taking part were also provided with techniques for getting down and up from the floor, should they have a fall.

The success of the initiative, which saw the number of falls reduce over time, led to a blueprint being developed to allow health providers roll out the programme across the country.

Now the FaME project has been given a global platform after being featured in the World Health Organization’s Step Safely report, which is designed to support practitioners, policy-makers and researchers in the prevention of falls and fall-related injuries.

It identifies that each year in England, more than 200,000 emergency hospital admissions and four million bed days result from falls and fractures among those aged 65 years and over, costing the health service

approximately £2b.

With the NHS facing pressure as a result of falls, researchers from the University of Nottingham put together an Implementation Manual for Commissioners to allow the FaME programme to be rolled out across other areas. They estimate widespread adoption of FaME could save the NHS more than £700m.

The research was funded by National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) East Midlands.

Following publication in the WHO report, those behind the FaME programme are delighted the initiative could have a far-reaching, global impact.

Dr Liz Orton, Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham and Consultant in Public Health, said: “We couldn’t have asked for a better platform to share the impact of the FaME classes, which have been several years in the making and have shown such positive, encouraging results.

“Exposure in the WHO report is hugely beneficial – the more people working in this field who hear about this preventative programme, the better.”

Professor Adam Gordon, Professor of the Care of Older People, University of Nottingham and Lead for the Building Community Resilience and Enabling Independence theme for ARC East Midlands, added: “We’re extremely proud to have been part of a project which is now receiving world-wide recognition and is being showcased to clinicians and researchers working at the forefront of this field.

“With the blueprint now in place for other areas to implement FaME, we look forward to seeing its impact on those vulnerable to the often debilitating effects of a fall.”

Electric Umbrella Charity Launches Appeal to Collect a Thousand Unwanted Musical Instruments by Christmas A charity which uses the power of live music to enhance the lives of people who are learning disabled has launched a ‘1,000 Instruments Challenge’ this week to ask people across the country to donate their unwanted musical instruments to them.

Electric Umbrella hopes to collect 1,000 instruments by Christmas and all donated instruments will be repaired, re-purposed or adapted by the charity so they can be used by members or they will be sold to raise funds for the charity.

Electric Umbrella adapts and/or rebuilds instruments for members to use which creates unique opportunities for learning disabled people.

They have made some truly amazing instruments such as drum kits that strap on to wheelchairs, banana pianos, and a drill guitar which was invented so that a band member could use his foot to play the instrument.

Electric Umbrella member William from Hayes, Uxbridge, West London, received an accordion three months ago from an Electric Umbrella supporter.

William (35), who has cerebral palsy, had always wanted an accordion and waited patiently for years. When he heard that someone had donated one he was so excited that he couldn’t sleep the night before they went to pick it up.

His friend Pauline Attree from Slough in Berkshire, said: “When William puts the piano accordion on his chest he squeezes it in and out to play it and his face says it all - he loves it!

“Sometimes Tom or someone else from Electric Umbrella will press the buttons on the side to make a tune.

“He absolutely loves Electric Umbrella, they are his family. He thinks having this accordion and being in a band is the best thing in the world.”

Long term member of Electric Umbrella Jonathan Watson (22) from Tring in Hertfordshire has poor mental health, a mild learning disability, extreme OCD and anxiety, but this is not how he should be defined because he also has incredible talent on stage.

Electric Umbrella has helped to empower him to achieve the most extraordinary things, including rapping for an audience of hundreds of people.

Jonathan said: “The amazing thing about Electric Umbrella is that we play a lot of instruments and sing and it doesn’t matter if you’re not the best singer or musician because you can just let it all out and be yourself.

“They are very inclusive. They even make inventions of instruments for people to use.

“For example, they made a guitar with a fishing rod on it so a person in a wheelchair can strum the strings with the rod to create a tune, but that’s just one example, they do so many incredible things.”

The Hertfordshire based charity Electric Umbrella (EU) was set up five years ago by Mel Boda and Tom Billington to provide a platform for learning disabled people to enjoy live music, and in doing so challenge the perceptions towards learning disabled people. They organise

gigs, operatas, musicals and even festivals.

Members regularly say they feel left behind by society and placed on the sidelines. Sadly, many of them have also experienced discrimination and say they could achieve far more than what’s expected of them, if given the right opportunities.

During the pandemic Electric Umbrella launched online sessions to bring fun interactive shows, singalongs, often with inspiring guests, to their hundreds of members, many of whom relied on these social and creative sessions to get them through this difficult time.

While online sessions have been necessary during the pandemic, Electric Umbrella looks forward to hosting in-person events again so that members can enjoy playing musical instruments, take part in singalongs, and meet up with friends and family for ‘real-life’ social interaction.

Electric Umbrella Creative Director and co-founder Tom Billington said: “We believe there is still life in even the oldest dogs and we’re asking people to donate their unused instruments so we can put them to good use and bring fun and joy to people’s lives.

“By empowering learning disabled people to take centre stage and show off their amazing talents we aim to encourage people to think differently about them.

“By donating your unwanted and unloved musical instruments you can be part of a movement to change people’s perceptions and make the world a more inclusive place.”

Electric Umbrella would also be grateful if any schools, workplaces or other organisations could act as a collection point for donated instruments and become a ‘Donation Station’. If you are interested email instruments@electricumbrella.co.uk. Also email this address if you live in Hertfordshire and you’d like the charity to pick up your instrument (or you want to drop it off).

To donate your musical instrument, visit: www.electricumbrella.co.uk/1000

High Wycombe Resident Ena Enjoys Pampering and a Party for 103rd Birthday A Royal Star & Garter resident has celebrated her 103rd birthday at the charity’s Home in High Wycombe.

Ena Mitchell was treated to a day of pampering by staff, who styled her hair, gave her a manicure, and massaged her hands, on Thursday 30 September. In the afternoon, she enjoyed a socially distanced party with other residents from the floor she lives on at the Home. The Indian food fan also indulged in a curry lunch, specially cooked up by the Home’s chef.

Royal Star & Garter provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia.

Ena was the youngest of five children, and born in Kingsley, Hampshire, on 30 September 1918, when WWI was still raging. Royal Star & Garter was established two years earlier to care for the severely injured young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War.

Later, Ena started fighting for the rights of the women who had lost husbands during the war, and joined the War Widows’ Association (WWA).

She began raising money for Royal Star & Garter after visiting its iconic former Richmond Hill Home in the 1970s through her work with the WWA. Over the next five decades, she would raise thousands for the charity, often asking for donations to Royal Star & Garter each birthday, instead of presents.

The great-grandmother said: “I’ve had a lovely day. Thank you to all the staff at Royal Star & Garter who organised it and made it so special. I am a lucky lady.”

During Ena’s long life there have been many conflicts that involved veterans and others. As part of its Remembrance campaign, Conflict Never Stops, Royal Star & Garter will be reflecting on their service and sacrifice.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 37

Super Sonnets: Residents At Hertfordshire Care Home Launch Poetry Club To Mark National Poetry Day To mark National Poetry Day, residents at a Hertfordshire care home have launched a poetry club to create and share their linguistic talent with others.

Being used as an exercise to boost positive wellbeing and mental stimulation, residents at the family-run Foxholes Care Home, took turns sharing their sonnets that tied in with this year’s theme; choice.

Tilted ‘Interviewer’s Interview’, Hilmar Warenius, 79, shared a poem based on the choices an interviewer makes when asking questions.

In full, the poem reads: Are you the right person for this job, They ask repeatedly, Someone with kindness, Gentle skills empathic questions, An eagerness to share, Can you extract from some poor suffering soul, The every detail of their pain, Pin down precisely, The loss, hurt, anger, desolation, grief, And share this bathos, With your captive listeners, And having achieved, This gruesome task, Brightly announce, There’ll be good news, After the weather forecast Describing what inspired him to write the poem, Hilmar said: “I woke up one morning and decided to put the radio on whilst I had my coffee. I

was listening to a lady interview a man whose daughter had died. She kept asking him 'how did you feel?’ It made me furious. I immediately switched the radio off and expressed all my anger into the poem, especially in the last line that shows how the woman had probably made the man feel worse but then continued to tell the weather and good news afterward.”

Other residents to take part in the session included 94-year-old Edna Llewelyn, who wrote a poem about how she met her husband who was

in the services during the Second World War. “I enjoy how the words just flow together”, she said.

While Kath Melot said: “I can’t explain it, I just really, really love poetry.

It often makes me think we should have had more poetry when we were at school as it really makes you feel good.”

The session was hailed an overall success and has led to the launch of a fortnightly poetry club, where residents and staff alike can enjoy creating and sharing poems as a cathartic exercise and to encourage others to get into the linguistic hobby. In addition, the new club will promote mental health, enhance social interaction, and help foster new friendships.

Neil Gandecha, Estate Manager at Foxholes Care Home, said: “To mark National Poetry Day, we wanted to encourage our residents to share their creativity in the form of sonnets, and the uptake was impressive. Not only did we have residents sharing some excellent and moving poems in the session, but the interest was so great that we came away having launched a new fortnightly club!”

He continued: “We look forward to future sessions and continuing to share and reflect on our residents’ linguistic creativity. After all, you don’t have to be William Shakespeare or John Keats to inspire others with your words.”

Since 1994, National Poetry Day has engaged millions of people with poetry through a range of live events and web-based activities. The day was launched by The Poetry Society, one of Britain’s most dynamic arts organisations, representing British poetry both nationally and internationally.

Century Celebrations For Southgate Beaumont Care Home Resident Celebrations have been in full swing at Southgate Beaumont as one of its residents reaches her centenary in style.

Evlyn Lee was joined by staff, loved one’s and other residents as she received a card from the Queen in recognition of her landmark 100thbirthday. A champagne reception was held at the home and guests enjoyed a special birthday cake and delicious treats made by head chef Daniel Brooks.

Evlyn said: “It has been a lovely day and thank you to everyone for making it so spe-

cial. I got a lovely card from the queen. I do like the queen, I have done since she was a girl.” Evlyn also said “I am now off to finish the perfect day in a perfect way, with a nice cup of tea and a slice of toast. “ Beatrice Godfrey General Manager of Barchester Southgate Beaumont added: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable lady as she reaches this amazing milestone. Evlyn is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more as she breaks into her next century.”

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PAGE 38 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

Dementia Care Home Comes Up Roses in Closely Fought Garden Produce Show More than 200 residents at 21 care homes in the south have taken part in a competition focused on gardening, horticulture and outdoor inspiration.

The third annual Colten Village Produce Show was described as the ‘best yet’ by Colten Care Head Gardener Charles Hubberstey.

First place went to Outstanding-rated Lymington dementia care home Linden House, followed closely by Abbotts Barton in Winchester with Braemar Lodge in Salisbury coming third.

Homes chose ten out of 15 categories for submitting entries, which were photographed and uploaded to an online image library ahead of judging.

Categories included ‘A Tussy-Mussy’ (arranging a posie of flowering annuals, herbs or perennials) and ‘Heave Ho!’ (growing the largest beetroot possible).

The show embraced baking and preserve and condiment making using garden ingredients.

At the same time, residents got creative with garden-themed paintings, sketches, photography and creative writing.

Further categories included making decorative items such as ornaments, birdbaths

and wind chimes from upcycled garden materials.

Charles said: “The show is an ideal, hands-on opportunity for our residents, gardeners and Companions to come together in a year-round celebration of garden-inspired creativity.

“The results always amaze us. It’s humbling to see the skills our residents have and the effort and detail that goes into the entries.

“We have improved every year despite the impact of the pandemic. This show was the best yet and I believe next year will be even bigger and better.”

Homes competed to achieve a maximum of 224 points across their ten categories.

Linden House scored 192, just four points ahead of Abbotts Barton and six above Braemar Lodge.

Contributing to the score for Linden House was a painting of a local scene by resident Nigel Bendell who said: “Producing the painting has put me in the mood to pursue it as a hobby. I was very surprised we won first place as I had no idea how good our competitors would be. It was great to share my success with my family.”

Meddyg Care Becomes First Welsh Care Home To Establish Admiral Nurse Service A Gwynedd care home group has been granted permission by a leading dementia organisation to establish an all-inclusive support service to those living with dementia and their families, the first such scheme within nursing homes in Wales.

Meddyg Care, which operates two specialist dementia homes in Criccieth and Porthmadog, have been given approval by national charity Dementia UK to employ an Admiral nurse.

The position covers three main disciplines which aim to further assist the work carried out by traditional carers.

Admiral nurses offer comprehensive and focused knowledge to help families and those living with dementia through all stages of the disease, as well as additional backing and care for cases with extra complexities.

The role also supports the best practices of carers and staff to ensure a high standard of care is achieved on a daily basis.

Dementia UK manages the implementation of the role within homes

and regions.

There are less than 300 admiral nurses within England and Wales,

with none located in north Wales.

In addition, Meddyg Care’s Admiral nurse will be just the fourth in Wales, and the first situated within a care home, with the others currently within regional health boards and the Royal British Legion.

Meddyg Care managing director Kevin Edwards said: “The appointment of an Admiral nurse is not just a big step forward for Meddyg Care, but also a significant progression in dementia care quality across all of north Wales.

“Providing access to high-level care and support to not only our residents, but also their loved ones is one of our core principals, and we are thrilled to continue to strive towards that goal by establishing this service.

“Our work can only be boosted by sitting at the forefront of knowledge and skill provision when it comes to caring for those living with dementia, and the support arising from this new role will be of major benefit to all of our staff.”

Cabrini House Residents Go Camping There was much excitement at Cabrini House in Orpington, when the residents found out that they would have the opportunity to spend the night camping in the garden. The residents, who all have learning disabilities, helped the team to put up five tents and prepare the food and snacks for the night outside.

Claire Morlham, Manager at Cabrini House, said, “All our Cabrini residents joined in preparing for the camping adventure in some way, whether it was spectating, pumping air beds up, banging in tent pegs, securing guide ropes, or spending the night in the tents.

“The highlights of the evening included lots of laughter, toasting marshmallows over an open fire, and getting a takeaway from the local fish and chip shop.

“The whole event had been highly anticipated, and the residents were

so excited when the weather forecast was for dry weather, and we could finally camp out. Although we should have known not to trust the forecast as at 4.30am we were treated to a very heavy downpour. But nothing dampened our spirits, and it was lovely to see the residents so excited and animated and they all asked if they could camp out all week.”

When the residents were asked about their adventure, Paul said, “Fish and chips taste better when you are outside camping. Can we do it again next year?” and Natalie said, “I enjoyed sitting with my friends in the garden.”

Hucknall Care Home Opens New Specialist Dementia Suite Harrier House Care Home in Hucknall will celebrate the opening of the all new, state-of-the-art dementia suite, specially designed to meet the needs of up to 28 people living with dementia. The suite will be officially opened by Adept Care Homes own specialist Dementia Manager, Karen Middleton. The new residential suite will support residents by helping them to maintain their independence whilst they pursue their hobbies, and the interests they enjoy.

Sam Kavanagh, Home Manager at Harrier House, says: “We are thrilled by the great start the home has got off to and we’re confident it will continue to grow as we welcome more people affected with dementia come to live with us in our new care suite. We have seen the happiness levels of our residents soar when they are in an environment designed with them in mind.”

The new suite has enabled existing staff members to be promot-

ed internally and receive training to increase their skill set. It has also created several new vacancies open to external candidates in the local community.

Karen Middleton, Adept’s Dementia Manager adds: “We’re delighted to be opening our dedicated dementia suite and to be able to ensure that our residents and their families are supported and cared for throughout their ever-changing dementia needs. We put our residents at the centre of everything we do and pride ourselves on offering the highest standards of person-centred care within a safe, supportive and homely environment.”

Sam Kavanagh added “Our team is also committed to introducing new initiatives to encourage the residents to engage with the local community and one another, which is a crucial part of positive, dementia care.”

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 43

CYBER SECURITY

Why Cyber Insurance Should Be Part of Your Risk Management Programme As our reliance on the digital world increases it is no real wonder that cybercrime is on the increase, and this has been clearly evident in the last twelve months.

For the opportunistic cybercriminal, it’s been a good time to commit cybercrime, as we have moved away from our usual routines and reliable systems, leaving an exploitable gap in our security as we quickly adapted to new ways of working.

According to Police data analysed by cyber security company Nexor, there was a 31% increase in cyber related cases over May and June last summer. The most common attack occurred through email or social media, and accounted for 53% of all attacks on businesses, leading to substantial multi-million pound losses. Healthcare, financial institutions, manufacturing, real estate, and education were the most targeted industries.

The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2020, released by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) revealed that nearly half of all businesses in the UK had reported cyber security breaches or attacks in the last 12 months but only 32% have insurance against such events.

Whether a big or small-scale event, a cyber-attack is likely to have serious consequences for any business – shutting systems, deleting data, preventing data access or stopping them from trading altogether.

Dealing with the fall out of a cyber-attack can be complicated and stressful, not to mention time-consuming and potentially expensive.

TYPES OF CYBER ATTACK Cyber-attacks can take many forms, all engineered to get the victim to disclose information or take action, or to infect systems with malicious software. Phishing, malware attacks and ransomware pose a threat to all businesses.

It’s common to think that cyber threats against businesses come from unrelated hackers, cyber-attacks or ransomware and are big events, but sometimes they can be more subtle and come from sources a little closer to home.

employees, your reputation and may ultimately affect the future of your business.

Having a comprehensive contingency and business interruption plan in place along with adequate insurance will help you to address and quickly overcome any fallout from a cyber-attack. A robust plan is vital to make sure you meet your legal obligations regarding data breaches and to reassure your customers.

THE BENEFITS OF CYBER INSURANCE

There are four categories that cyber threats against a business typically originate; insider threats, human error or negligence, external threats and third-party threats.

Wherever the threat originates the bottom line is how you to respond.

Have you thought about how you would continue to run your care home if you lost access to all your data? You could lose access to client records and supplier data, order information, diary appointments, financial data, your website and more. If you are held to ransom for access to patient files, the financial consequences could be significant.

Additionally, you may be affected by reputational damage, which could affect existing relationships and damage future prosperity.

You may need to rebuild and replace lost systems or create a new website. And, if a data breach occurred you are likely to face significant fines from the Information Commissioner’s Office.

All of the above will require money, time and resources and need to be addressed in a timely manner to help you retain customers,

Cyber liability insurance is a must for any care home business because it provides you with protection and peace of mind, should the worst happen. It will help against denial of service, which may occur with ransomware, the recovery from computer virus damage, which may have resulted in a significant loss of data, and other data breaches such as the loss of a memory stick or laptop.

Getting assistance quickly and from reputable, knowledgeable and reliable sources will be key in ensuring your business can continue to operate with minimal disruption.

If your care home holds data on a computer system, even with antivirus software in place, you can still be vulnerable to a breach.

Cyber liability insurance is relatively inexpensive and will provide you and your business with complete reassurance in the face of a data breach crisis.

Every business is different and will have specific needs, so make sure you get advice for your unique situation and requirements.

Don’t wait until you have experienced a cyber-attack to put measures in place, be proactive and help protect your business now.

Barnes Commercial Insurance Broker are specialists in arranging robust insurance for those operating in the care home sector. As independent advisers they provide impartial advice on the best solution for your specific needs.

Telephone: 01480 272727 Email: enquiries@barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk www.barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk

Specialist care home insurance We arrange tailored insurance programmes for care and nursing homes, hospices and domiciliary care providers, for both staff and business owners.

Our extensive knowledge of the care market will help to ensure you have the right protection in place for now and, for the future.

Secure robust cover that’s right for your business.

CALL NOW FOR A QUOTE

01480 272727

Impartial advice from experienced advisers

Exceptional service from a dedicated account executive

Let us help you to protect your business with a no obligation risk review today!

Market-leading products from A rated insurers

Send us an email: Visit our website: Follow us:

Support with claims

Guidance on risk management solutions including H&S and HR

enquiries@barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk www.barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk/care /barnes-commercial

Barnes Commercial Insurance Broker is a trading style of Barnes Commercial Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN: 844370. Registered address: 3 Fenice Court, Phoenix Park, Eaton Socon, St Neots, Cambs, PE19 8EW. Registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 11909011.

PAGE 46 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

CATERING FOR CARE Has The Pandemic Created A Permanent Change In The Way Catering Operates?

Rupert Lynch, Client Relationship Manager and Executive Chef at allmanhall, the independently owned food procurement expert, discusses whether the pandemic has led to permanent changes in the way catering operators work. Have caterers adapted and improved their operations as a result, or are they likely to return to the old ways of doing things.

REVIEWING STAFF AND OPERATIONAL PROCESSES

Circa 18 months since the start of the pandemic, catering establishments are now well versed in the intricacies of ‘Covid compliance’.

Kitchens have adapted to an ever-changing environment that was outside of their control and devised systems that could cope with the guidelines laid down by the Government. Following the relaxing of all rules in England, catering teams have undertaken risk assessments to ascertain whether all or some of the changes made over the previous year are required or whether they could adapt and implement some of the ‘enforced’ changes to enable a better and more efficient operation.

Catering teams are still hesitant to make too many alterations, but many have relished the ‘new normal’ and many changes will now become permanent. These include the way the canteen or foodservice facility is laid out, how food is served (self-serve or served) the number of items on the menu and myriad of other changes that albeit were previously enforced, have now proved to be highly beneficial. For example, structuring lunch

service in schools, care homes and offices, to enable reduced volumes in canteens has been substantiated as a very successful practice, however this does have an impact on staffing hours in order to cope with the longer lunch service.

Another benefit has been the introduction of split services, utilising servery counters to mirror a like-for-like service across the canteen, the offering has been reduced. In some instances, this has meant the lunch period allocated has been maintained, but at the same time held additional costs despite no increases regarding labour hours or shifts.

One key consideration caterers have had to deal with was addressing the risk of a complete kitchen shutdown due to one or more staff testing positive. This has been a very real concern and limitation; a number of kitchen teams we have spoken to have stated they will be maintaining a ‘bubble’ status, whilst still trying to ensure an element of flexibility.

Keeping teams working in bubbles has so far meant that some catering teams have been able to maintain a service even during the “ping-demic” of summer 2021.

The indication at the time of writing is that many are looking to revert to pre-pandemic operational processes for their foodservice, including the use of crockery and cutlery in place of disposables.

SUPPLY CHAIN CONSIDERATIONS

Supply chain challenges and disruption continued into the summer period and has been further exacerbated by the shortage of HGV & LGV delivery drivers and issues surrounding availability of product. Catering operations must ensure they have adequate stock going into the autumn and are going to need be prepared to change menus, last minute.

Service level agreements with suppliers are now subject to increased scrutiny and operators are going to fair best by being understanding of

Major NEW Product Launches Make a Change for the Better!

Keeping healthy is increasingly seen as a social responsibility with many consumers now being motivated to protect their health not just for themselves but also for the ‘greater good’. In research that Major carried out, a staggering 93% described strengthening their immune system as important. That’s why at Major they have been busy creating an industry first… A gravy which

not only tastes amazing but is a great source of Vitamin D! Major’s Instant Gravy is allergen free, suitable for vegetarians and vegans, meets 2024 salt targets and is available in two varieties, perfect for meat and poultry dishes.

Want to find out more and try for yourself, simply drop us an email at: higham_ferrers.samples@givaudan.com or give us a call on 01933 356012 quoting The Carer for your free sample.

See the advert on the previous page for details.

the situation, aware that they may not receive deliveries within their agree window. From allmanhall’s insight into how both clients and suppliers are adapting and planning ahead, it seems that the majority of catering teams are managing this well, communicating, showing flexibility and placing orders day 1 for day 3 as a minimum.

HYGIENE

By their nature, kitchens are designed with good hygiene in mind and the pandemic forced an even more rigorous cleaning regime. Areas to keep a focus on are key touch points, cleaning regularly and deep cleaning the whole kitchen area at least once a week. A number of clients have spoken of the changes they have made to their shift and staffing requirements to facilitate this, and the extra training that has been required, too.

OPPORTUNITIES AND THE FUTURE

The majority of catering operators allmanhall has spoken to have indicated they will revert back to pre-pandemic levels and processes for some operational activities, notably the way the menu is designed. During the pandemic, menus were reduced to cope with the extra demand on staffing levels and time taken to pre-package food for delivery across campuses, for example.

That said, having discussed this with a number of catering teams, they have largely indicated that although there will be more choice back on the menus, they will tailor it in such a way that the production methods are no more labour intensive than they have been over the last 18-month period.

Operators have taken this opportunity to review their existing procedures and practises and implemented changes that they may have been previously considering, as improvements.

See the advert on the facing page for details.

Cracking New Egg Dishes For Care Homes from Chef Martin McKee

Martin McKee, former NACC Care Chef of the Year, has created a series of new recipe videos showing how British Lion eggs can be used to create exciting, creative, and nutrient dense dishes to support the needs of care home residents.

The recipes have been created to reflect the growing trend for menu simplification that has emerged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting staff and skills shortages, as well as incorporating nutritious ingredients in an original way.

The five recipes have been developed in association with a specialist dietician to meet various nutritional requirements of residents, including undernourishment, dementia and dysphagia. The dishes include both savoury and sweet recipes and include Chicken and Leek Stuffed Mushroom; Deconstructed Spanish Omelette; Smoked Turkey, Cranberry and Egg Fried Sandwich; Lemon Meringue Pie; and a Custard Filled Doughnut.

All the recipes are designed to serve 12 or more people and are easy to follow.

British Lion eggs are approved by The Food Standards Agency to be eaten runny or

even raw by vulnerable groups, including care home residents. Before the change in advice for Lion eggs, care homes had to restrict the way they served eggs, but the change in 2017 meant that care home residents could once again enjoy a dippy egg, and benefit from a range of other nutritious, and delicious egg-based dishes.

Martin said: ‘’Eggs are a must on care home menus and are a fantastically versatile ingredient. I have created a range of savoury and sweet recipes, calling on familiar favourites with a modern touch. The recipes I’ve created highlight the nutritional benefits of eggs, as they contain key vitamins and minerals and are high in protein which is essential for care home residents’ diets. I have also ensured that the recipes are straightforward and easy to replicate so that they can be enjoyed in care homes of any scale.”

The video recipes are available to view on British Lion eggs YouTube channel and can also be found on www.egginfo.co.uk/tv See the advert on page 32 for further details.

PAGE 48 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Uniquely Adapted Clothing By Adaptawear At Adaptawear we specialise in uniquely adapted clothing for day and night. Our garments are designed to help improve independent and assisted dressing, removing the limitations of conventional clothes.

A key product in our night time range is the Iona Nightie; fully opening at the back and at both shoulders, it can be put on from a lying or seated position. It ensures dignified toileting due to it’s open-back with generous overlap.

Another unique product to Adaptawear are the All-InOne Pyjamas, these feature shoulder to ankle and between the legs zips. These pyjamas are designed to enable carers to dress a person from a lying position.

They are suitable for people who have a tendency to inappropriately disrobe and help avoid picking and smearing behaviour. They also allow easy and quick

access for toileting.

Our day time range is particularly popular with those who can independently dress with a few discreet adaptations. These include; velcro/magnetic shirts, front fastening bras, pull on elasticated waist trousers and discreet open back day and nightwear. Adaptawear clothing can help improve the life of those living with a variety of conditions and many of our items are available with VAT relief.

All items can be found at www.adaptawear.com or call 0800 051 1931 for more info.

Don’t forget to use code CR10M at checkout for 10% off your order.

See the advert on page 3 for details.

Jolly Trolley Brings Therapeutic Activity and Entertainment to Patients That Are Isolating The Jolly Trolley® is an essential for any care establishment as it promotes social interaction between the service users and their carers. This innovative system is fully mobile and battery operated, allowing residents who may be unable to leave their rooms to also be included with ease.

The Jolly Trolley® comes complete with its own videos, quizzes, karaoke and other content, but personal music, photos and films can then be added from a USB stick to really bring out the magic!

Don’t just take our word for it here are just some testimonials from our very happy Health and Social Care clients:

Chester Park- Megan Allan, Activities “The fact that we can upload what is relevant to the specific Individual is so meaningful for that person and I can assure you we have shed some tears being able to be part of that residents memory journey. It has been an amazing addition to our care home – from staff and residents – thank you.”

Pennine NHS Trust - Beech Ward“we have been able to provide therapeutic activity & entertainment with ease to patients that are isolating” To see what the Jolly Trolley® can do for you, call us for a free demonstration on 0800 093 8499.

See the advert on page 4.

The Power of Scent It has been known for many decades that fragrance has the power to evoke emotions and memories, whether it is smelling a perfume that reminds you of an occasion in the past or a loved one that perhaps wore the fragrance or bought it for you, scent can bring back all of those happy memories and occasions.

Your olfactory system is responsible for your sense of smell. Often called the “emotional brain”, it can instantly prompt powerful responses and memories. For instance, the scent of lemon might make you think of the lemon tree in your back garden growing up, but for another person it might be associated with the cleaning products their parents used in their childhood home.

Having lost both parents to dementia, I remember going to see my mam in her care home and presenting her with a perfume that she wore occasionally for special occasions, at this stage she did not know my name, but I sprayed the perfume into the air and within seconds she told me what the perfume was and then over the next 30 minutes she was reminiscing of the times gone past, this had the same effect when we played her music to her, the memories and emotions came flooding back.

Whether you use essential oils, fragrance oils or a mixture of both the scent can play a major part in your wellbeing and mood, for instance the aroma of fresh citrus and fresh green notes will make you feel uplifted, awake and fresh,

while rich fresh floral notes will give you a feeling of happiness, and spring and summer, while oriental will give you a feeling of warmth and a relaxed state of mind.

At scentworks we offer a substantial range of essential oils, fragrance oils and formulations of both to suit all environments and needs whether it is for communal areas, washrooms, waste areas, offices, personal rooms, entrances etc. Our oils are all manufactured within the UK and are all IFRA controlled and compliant.

Our scent diffusion equipment is discreet but also stylish, very quiet and very low maintenance, requiring only 1-2 service visits per year on self-replenished units which helps to keep costs to a minimum, from as little £1 per day.

We have a selection of scent diffusion equipment with a wide range of coverage from small tabletop units suitable for an office environment, floor or wall mounted options for medium sized areas and up to larger units that connect directly to an air conditioning system above a roof void. All our scent diffusion equipment is programmable, which means that once set up you can just enjoy the fragrance not having to worry about switching the machine off as it will happen automatically.

We offer a wide range of pricing solutions, whether this would be renting or purchasing of equipment along with fragrance and equipment packages, we are totally flexible to suit your requirements.

Visit www.scentworkssolutions.com or see the advert on page 12.

CareZips Dignity Trousers ™

CareZips™ preserve dignity and privacy of people receiving care during diaper changes.

CareZips™ make diaper changes easier and faster, reducing workload, saving efforts, and saving time!

CareZips™ help to deliver better standards of care!

Fitted with unique 3-zip fastening system, the CareZips™ make changing of incontinence diapers more dignified and comfortable for the patients and easier and faster for the carers.

CareZips™ feature 3 strategically positioned zips, 2 of which run from the waist to the knees on both sides of the body. The 3rd zip goes from the inside of one knee up to the crotch and down to the second knee on the inside of the other leg. This zip facilitates total opening of the trousers at the crotch during diaper changes. The 3-zip system ensures fast and easy access to the abdomen and crotch without having to undress the patients or pull their trousers down.

CareZips™ are suitable for men and women. They

Specialist Dementia Bathroom Design Guide Launched by AKW AKW, a leading provider of accessible home solutions, is pleased to announce the launch of a new guide to creating dementia-friendly bathrooms.

Produced with advice and support from specialist dementia design advisers at the University of Stirling’s Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC), it offers best practice guidance on designing this important space.

The bathroom is one of the most challenging and dangerous places for a person with dementia and Dementia Friendly Design aims to compensate for the changes people experience when living with this condition. Importantly, a dementia-friendly bathroom doesn’t need to cost more than a standard bathroom adaptation, but the products and guidelines regarding colour etc. need to be followed to ensure maximum safety and comfort.

Lynsey Hutchinson, Senior Interior Designer at DSDC, University of Stirling, comments: “The bathroom, despite being one of the smallest rooms to design in any building, is one of the most complicated. Indeed, there are at least ten tonal considerations within a bathroom or shower room. These include tonal contrast

Yeoman Shield Fire Rated Door Edge Protector When specifying for a structure, it’s important to be aware of the level of wear and tear a door can be exposed to in a public building.

Door edges, in particular, can be easily damaged or worn down by regular use – which can then render them non-compliant for fire safety regulations. To ensure that a project remains compliant, an architect can specify durable door edge protectors to add durability and longevity to doors.

Not only will specifying edge protectors increase the longevity of doors, they will enhance the cost efficiency of a project by reducing maintenance demands and the possibility of having to replace unsafe fire doors.

Yeoman Shield fire rated Door Edge Protectors are unique with a 2.0 mm Vinylac outer and a specially formulated 9mm PVCu reinforced core. They are FD30 (1/2 hour) and FD60 (1 hour) rated with intumescent seals that are in accordance to the fire door’s specification. Fire rated Door Edge Protectors are suitable for commercial applications such as residential blocks, schools and hospitals etc.

Door Edge Protectors can also be specified with different fire seals, from a plain intumescent fire seal

to a brush, fire and smoke variant.

Of course, for doors that are non-fire rated in an architect’s project Yeoman Shield also provide quality edge protectors without seals to enhance durability and reduce wear.

Source a full range of door protection panels and kick plates from a single supplier by choosing Yeoman Shield. Our door protection panels and kick plates offer the same lasting durability and quality as our door edge protectors.

Visit www.yeomanshield.com for details or see page 10.

Scrubs UK and Uniforms UK

Scrubs UK and Uniforms UK are part of Uniform Group UK Ltd suppliers of Medical and Healthcare Uniforms. Our main aim is to provide the best products at the most competitive prices and are proud to be an ‘NHS approved supplier’.

We pride ourselves on our excellent reputation and customer service and firmly believe that building relationships with our customer is key to offering the best service possible.

Our uniforms meet infection-control requirements and offer the best in durability and comfort. We stock a wide range of styles, colours and sizes to suit everyone.

Our own brand ‘Scrubs UK Premium’ range is one of our best sellers offering all day comfort together with durability and of course style!

WE ARE MORE THAN HAPPY TO SEND YOU A FREE SAMPLE OF OUR SCRUBS UK PREMIUM SCRUBS SET PERSONALISED WITH YOUR LOGO FOR YOU TO SEE FOR YOURSELVES!

Renray Healthcare

are available in 7 sizes for perfect fit. CareZips™ are soft and wrinkle resistant with stretch and give for extra comfort. Practical, durable, washable and noniron, the CareZips™ trousers are the perfect choice for daily use.

Contact Win Health Medical Ltd - 01835 864866 www.win-health.com or see the advert on page 5.

for surfaces / critical planes such as walls, floors, doors, skirtings, sanitary ware and toilet seats which should achieve a minimum contrast of 30 points LRV (Light Reflectance Value) in order to see one object against another.”

Stuart Reynolds, Head of Product and Marketing at AKW explains why the new dementia guide has been developed: “We have worked with the University of Stirling to translate the complex issue of dementia into practical design points that can be easily applied in any bathroom adaptation. The guide details the seven major dementia challenges that impact bathroom design and gives specific advice on what to install and where, to help overcome these issues.

From flooring colour to lighting placement, the guide has it all.”

For health and care professionals, specifiers, relatives, contractors and social landlords wanting to find out more, AKW’s Guide to Creating Dementia-Friendly Bathrooms is available to download from https://www.akw-ltd.co.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2021/08/3121AKW-Dementia-guide-12pp_LR.pdf See the advert on page 9 for further details.

Renray Healthcare has been producing high quality furniture for over 50 years and is one of the UK’s largest and leading suppliers to the healthcare sector. Whether you require a fast efficient delivery of quality furniture or a full room installation and fitting service, we have the experience and resources to handle your contract.

We manufacture and assemble our products in our own purpose built factories in Cheshire and Europe to British Standards. Hence we are able to ensure your furniture is produced to the highest quality, working with you to plan and meet your projects time schedule and budget.

We understand you are purchasing furniture that is fit for purpose, stylish and will continue to perform well into the future, which is why we design and build our

We stock all major brands including, Cherokee, Dickies, Behrens, Alexandra, Koi, Orange Standard, Simki and Skechers.

Healthcare uniforms come in all shapes and sizes, and we sell them all!

We can also provide you with your catering staff, maintenance and reception uniforms.

PERSONALISATION OF UNIFORMS IS OUR SPECIALITY! All embroidery is carried out in-house so we are able to react quickly to your order.

For a limited time, we are offering FREE EMBROIDERY SET UP (normally £20) to all new customers.

You will always speak personally to a member of our team when you call who are more than happy to help you with your requirements.

Call today on 01270 814141 or visit www.scrubsuk.com or www.uniforms-uk.com See the advert on page 16.

furniture with you in mind.

Telephone: +44 (0)1606 593456, Email: info@renrayhealthcare.com, www.renrayhealthcare.com or see the advert on page 3 for details.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 49

CLEANING AND HYGIENE The Cleaning Show Returns post-pandemic future.

LESSONS LEARNT DURING THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC

The global pandemic has seen cleanliness and sanitation become a top priority for business owners and consumers alike. Helping showcase the latest advancements in cleaning practices and technologies, The Cleaning Show returns to ExCeL, London from 2-4 November 2021.

The show, organised by the British Cleaning Council and Quartz Business Media, is set to attract more than 7,000 senior cleaning professionals from across the contract cleaning, facilities management (FM), healthcare, hospitality, retail, and public services sectors – making it the UK’s largest and most important event in the cleaning and hygiene sector. Attendees will be able to connect, learn and discover new products, services, and suppliers at a critical time as businesses across the UK prioritise cleaning protocols to ensure returning staff and customers remain safe.

Reflecting on lessons learnt during the global pandemic and celebrating the hard work and achievements of cleaning professionals across the UK, The Cleaning Show conference makes an eagerly awaited return. It will provide a platform for attendees to learn and discuss the latest developments, and the critical next steps for an industry on the frontline of public health and safety. Industry experts will come together to discuss the role of cleaning in protecting public health and safety.

DEMONSTRATING EXCELLENCE

PREVENTATIVE CLEANING IN A POST-PANDEMIC FUTURE

With new and recently launched innovations on display, attendees can find the solutions to help them meet the increasing demands for heightened cleanliness and sanitation in a

Haigh - Discover the Benefits of Disposable Bedpans Working with care operators nationwide, Haigh helps simplify pad and pan disposal. Clients have reduced or eliminated waste bag collections, resulting in cleaner, nicer sluice rooms. Haigh can minimise the hassle involved in change, with delivery planning, installations, staff training, and ongoing servicing capabilities; so you can focus on infection control and a great patient experience.

The Haigh team has been working alongside care providers to adapt to new ways of delivering maintenance, service and user training to fit with on site teams and the additional constraints that the latest infection control and test procedures bring. This has been well received, for

example one multi-site care operator has also achieved significant operational cost benefits by moving a wide rage of maintenance services in-house, including waste disposal, and benefited from the expert support that Haigh have provided.

With an in depth understanding of the end to end process for patient waste disposal, right through to the point where it is no longer the responsibility of the site, we know what is best for drainage and compliant effluent as well as the importance of reliability of the waste disposal machines themselves. For more information on how the Haigh team can help improve your pad and pan disposal processes please call or email the team at info@haigh.co.uk

Angloplas Dispensers Help Reduce the Risk of Cross Infection Angloplas are a UK manufacturer who specialise in producing dispensers for the health and hygiene industry. Although these are designed to keep the workplace tidy and uncluttered they are, more importantly, built knowing the control of healthcareassociated 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 by going to www.angloplas.co.uk and clicking Hospital, Health and Hygiene or by using the Quick Response code.

New for 2021, the Cleaning & Support Services Association will be hosting its 2021 CSSA Innovation Showcase in a dedicated pavilion at the event to highlight and celebrate the industry’s most innovative cleaning products, services and initiatives.

Registration for The Cleaning Show 2021 is now open. To register today and find further information on this year’s programme, visit https://cleaningshow.co.uk/

PAGE 50 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

CLEANING AND HYGIENE Power Driving Productivity In today’s world, the cleaning industry faces complex challenges and increased demands where cleaning is about keeping people safe. Increasing productivity is the key to meeting these demands and increasing standards.

The new NX300 Pro Cordless network from Numatic delivers professional level cordless performance to a versatile and expanding range.

Quicker, safer and more convenient, switching to Pro Cordless raises productivity levels, saving time and money.

An extensive research and development programme utilising the latest battery technologies has resulted in the newly developed 30 cell design, delivering a 60% increase in available energy. The NX300 battery pack has been engineered and test-

ed for extended commercial use.

Investing in the right cordless network will drive cost efficiency and return on investment. Networked solutions reduce purchase and maintenance costs. Users can specify and ultimately reduce charger and battery requirements, delivering up to a 50% savings compared to standalone cordless fleets. The NX range includes both cylinder and backpack vacuums while floorcare is covered with the ever popular TTB1840NX scrubber dryer and the newest additions with the 244NX compact scrubber dryer and RSU150NX Sanitise Pro. We look forward to seeing you at the Care Show, Hall 3A, Stand D50.

To find our more visit: www.numatic.co.uk/nx300

Brookvale Care Home Relies on Rensair to Deliver 24x7 Clean Air

Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.

Air purification specialist Rensair has supplied Brookvale care home, located in Prestwich near Manchester, with portable, hospital-grade air purifiers to help prevent the transmission of Covid-19.

Brookvale is a care home for adults with learning and physical disabilities, providing a calm, relaxed place to live and visit.

“That calm and tranquility was challenged when the pandemic hit”, said Carl Richmond, CEO at Brookvale.

“It became clear that we needed to put measures in place to ensure that we’re better equipped to deal with further potential outbreaks.”

After conducting research, Brookvale sought advice from Rensair and, following a site visit to assess communal areas and occupancy levels, received a proposal based on the company’s modular, portable air purifiers. Rensair's patented technology, originally developed to meet the strict air quality requirements of Scandinavian hospitals, has since been adopted worldwide by doctor and dental practices, care homes and hospitals, including several NHS trusts.

“Rensair’s pre-Covid experience

with hospitals added credibility and we had some prior knowledge of UV disinfection because of our hydrotherapy pool”, said Carl. It stands to reason that trapping pathogens with HEPA before destroying them with UVC light is more effective than fly-by-kill methods on moving targets.”

In a test to determine the Rensair unit’s performance in reducing the concentration of Covid-19 particles in the air (using MS2 bacteriophages as a proxy for SARSCoV-2) , the Danish Technological Institute recorded a particle reduction rate of 99.98 % in 15 minutes and above 99.99 % in 30 minutes. Furthermore, the test reported 100% elimination of virus particles on the filter, with zero traces detected.

“We now feel that the health of those within our care at Brookvale is properly protected and their families are reassured”, concluded Carl.

“Equally important is the protection of mental wellbeing. For our clients, that means being allowed to continue their scheduled activities as well as enjoying unrestricted family visits.”

See the advert on this page for details.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 53

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS Forbes Professional Ensures that Care Homes Meet Stringent Industry Requirements For any care home, there are key considerations when it comes to their in-house laundry operation. Firstly, the process must be entirely compliant with CQC and the Department of Health, secondly it must adhere to the industry’s stringent WRAS requirements. In order to maintain the requisite hygiene control levels, is imperative to source appropriate commercial laundry equipment. It is also essential to ensure best practice through the sorting, segregation, transportation, processing and storage of all laundry items.

The Department of Health’s Technical Memorandum (HTM) 01-04 requires that, for appropriate decontamination of linen, care homes must employ both thermal and chemical disinfection. Care homes also need to ensure that staff are trained in using the laundry equipment.

Should the CQC find that a care home falls short of these requirements, the home may be placed into special measures, shut down or prosecuted.

WRAS deems all care homes to be high risk Category

LaundryTec

5 for the water contamination risk and washing machines therefore need to include a backflow prevention system.

It is therefore imperative to use commercial laundry equipment.

Forbes Professional is currently celebrating 95 years of service. A well-established family business with a nationwide infrastructure, Forbes provides care homes across the UK with highly efficient WRAS and CQC compliant laundry solutions. Proud partners of market leaders Miele, they offer the highest quality of both product and service. Forbes has a team of qualified in-house and gasregistered engineers, and all work is fully CHAS approved. They carefully specify the right equipment for each requirement and support clients with comprehensive user training and an inclusive same/ next day service response. info@forbes-professional.co.uk Telephone 0345 070 2335

LaundryTec is the culmination of 40 years’ experience in the laundry equipment market by its founder Jeremy Hartigan.

Based in Chester we offer support for our own Lavamac brand and all other makes.

Uniquely LaundryTec will offer support for any laundry equipment, with reliable, cost-effective after sales support across the UK via our in-house service department Supported by Alliance Laundry (The World’s Biggest manufacturer) we distribute the Lavamac range of equipment that’s unique range of features include, Data Tracked Operation, Auto-Weight loading, Automatic chemical control, Simple to use controls and market leading efficiency in energy consumption make it a market leader The Air Sourced Heat Pump Dryers cost less to dry

18kg of washing than boiling a kettle!

Auto- Chemical control and Auto weight Control calculates the energy required to the actual load and can control the chemical usage and offer reduction of up to 50% in chemical usage!

Every replacement machine includes Installation, commissioning and as standard 24 months Parts and Labour Warranty.

CMM customers will receive a 36-month warranty as Standard If you want a friendly amenable face that can deliver on their promises let LaundryTec offer you the kind of support we offer Bupa, Care UK, Abbey Healthcare, and many others to your home?

From Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) to fully comprehensive cover and reactive support properly maintained, and supported laundry equipment should be a cost effective, relaxed part of the care homes operation?

Check out our website www.laundrytec.com to see what of customers say info@laundrytec.com

FowlerUK are Back!

ments. We also offer tailor made finance packages to suit any budget. Contact us today for further information on 01200 444430 or by email sales@fowleruk.com.

Revolution Max Ltd has a change of name and owner.

We’re pleased to announce that Revolution Max Ltd will now be known as Fowler UK (Trading) Limited and is back in the hands of the original owner, David Fowler.

Fowler UK are a nationwide supplier of commercial laundry and catering equipment. With a team of fully trained, gas certified field-base engineers, FowlerUK are a onestop-shop for all your servicing and maintenance require-

See the advert on page 32.

Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.

LaundryTec Ltd offer a unique approach to laundry equipment

We don’t want to replace equipment or sign you into a long-term agreement.

LaundryTec want to support your existing equipment, through PPM, Gas Safe Compliance and Quality emergency support.

Quality, Innovation and Support

BEFORE

We are also Lavamac distributors

www.laundrytec.com

0151 317 3127

AFTER

info@laundrytec.com

PAGE 54 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

NURSE CALL AND FALLS PREVENTION

Why 4,438 Daily Falls In UK Care Homes Deserve Our Attention

A recent report,’ “Responding to falls in care homes: two innovations” by Dr Mark Hawker and River Rea from Involve, discusses how best practice in post fall management can provide time and cost savings to the wider health and social care system.

Combining benefits of assistive lifting technology and video-based clinical support could return costs savings of up to £3,911 per fall, whilst also safeguarding residents’ lives.

Across the 15,000 + care homes registered by the Care Quality Commission there are between 270,000 – 1,620,000 falls per year. As one of the most frequently reported accidents among residents, falls represent a pressing issue for providers of care, particularly as demand for places is expected to rise as the population ages.

Author, Dr Mark Hawker says, “the risk factors for falls in care setting are diverse and the multiplicity of elements influencing the likelihood of falls makes them incredibly difficult to eliminate entirely. For the individual, the consequences of a fall are numerous and distressing, while the repetitive lifting requirement of carers puts them at risk of musculoskeletal injury.

“The pilot studies we’ve examined demonstrate that by giving care home staff the tools to empower safe lifting reduces the time residents spend on the floor after a fall waiting for an ambulance and help to arrive. Organised and safe post fall care is better for the resident and more cost effective for the NHS.”

The report goes on to discuss the importance of reducing the risk of spreading infectious diseases by eliminating avoidable contacts. There are clear benefits of using technologies that reduce the number of external contact such as those that would be required to pick up a resident following a fall. While difficult to quantify, the reduction of contacts with healthcare workers such as paramedics, GPs and district nurses with residents is seen as essential during a pandemic.

Mangar Health CEO Simon Claridge adds, “we have been working with NHS Ambulance Trusts for nearly 20 years and yet this report has been incredibly eye opening for us. We know lifting fallen care home residents is a daily challenge to prioritising ambulance calls, yet equipment and technology could easily lift the considerable pressures they are under and save the NHS millions annually.

“We would like to call on NHS England, NICE and CQC to review the dynamics involved in a resident fall detailed in this report and consider alternative care models in a post pandemic environment.”

Anyone wishing to receive a copy of the report should email hello@involve.vc.

For more information email cbirt@mangarhealth.com Mangar Health Tel: 01544 267674 See the advert on the facing page for more about Mangar.

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

FALL SAVERS ® WIRELESS MONITOR

Eliminate all cables with our new generation falls management solutions!

Upgrade your falls programme with the latest technology from Fall Savers®. The NEW Fall Savers® Wireless eliminates the cord between the monitor and sensor pad. This results in less work for nursing staff, improved safety for patients and reduced wear and tear on sensor pads. Wireless advantages include the ability to

use one monitor with two sensor pads simultaneously and support for many new wireless devices.

Benefits include:

Safer for patients; less work for staff Bed and chair pads available One monitor works with two sensor pads Integrates with most nurse call systems A variety of options, including: Call button Pager Floor sensor mat Wireless door/window exit alerts

TREADNOUGHT ®FLOOR SENSOR PAD The TreadNought® Floor Sensor Pad is built to last with a durable construction that far out lasts the competition. Our anti-bacterial floor sensor pad is compatible with most nurse call systems or can be used with a portable pager to sound an alert when a person steps on to the sensor pad. Caregivers typically place the sensor pad at the bedside, in a doorway or other locations to monitor persons at risk for falls or wandering. An optional anti-slip mesh reduces the potential for slippage on hard surface floors.

Features include:

Connects directly to most nurse call systems High Quality anti-bacterial Floor Sensor Pad Large Size Pad: Measures (L) 91cm x (H) 61cm Options (sold separately): Anti-slip mesh for hard surface floors See the advert on this page for further details or visit www.fallsavers.co.uk.

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 55

NURSE CALL AND FALLS PREVENTION The New MPCSA11 from Medpage Medpage is a family ran company, with a huge heart and resources gathered over our 35- year trading history. The majority of the technologies we design, manufacture and distribute originate from enquiries received from healthcare professionals and personal family care observations. Our product portfolio provides a wide variety of care solutions for epilepsy, dementia, senior care, special needs and sensory loss.

Our latest innovation, currently in use in several Hospitals, presents an effective fall monitoring, detection and reporting solution. The MPCSA11 is a complex software driven sensor monitor made to be user and operator friendly. This device has already proven successful in hospital and care home trials by reducing

patient falls while also reducing false positives from a safe patient.

The device can monitor and interact with up to three sensor products: bed and chair occupancy pressure pads, PIR movement detection sensors and proximity signal products.

In use, a patient or resident rising from their bed would be considered a falls risk, but what if they are simply moving to sit in a chair close to their bed? A standard bed monitor would raise an alarm alerting care staff, who would arrive to find the person safely seated. The MPCSA11 would only generate an alarm if the person was out of their bed or chair for a selectable time duration. Learn more www.easylinkuk.co.uk/mpcsa11 Or see the advert on page 2.

Silent Running - Tranquility in Care Homes Quiet and calm care homes ensure that residents are able to live in a more relaxing and pleasant home environment. Similarly, carers and staff find that they too benefit from reduced stress when working in a home where noise levels are kept to a minimum.

There are many environmental factors that can affect those sensitive to their surroundings, particularly those suffering from dementia, these can be fluctuations in ambient temperature, light, and of course noise.

Repetitive and high levels of noise can originate from a number of internal and external sources, for example, telephones ringing, loud conversations in corridors, and call bells sounding, often one of the largest contributors to increasing the levels of stress and discomfort in residents.

A published study by the University of Stirling stated that unanswered Nurse Call (Call Bell) alarms can be one of the most common causes of stress in dementia sufferers. The University recommends “fitting call alarms which alert nurses but do not resonate throughout the whole building. Alarms can be particularly disconcerting as they may encourage the person with dementia to respond or investigate what the matter is. At the very least the loss of sleep will compromise a person’s ability to concentrate. It can affect their attention levels and capacity to cope, as well as being detrimental to their overall state of wellbeing.

Personal paging systems are preferable to bells and buzzers.” Modern Nurse Call systems can incorporate a number of methods to reduce their impact in a care home. These include zoning whereby there are sepa-

rate alarm types used depending upon the location of the call. In these circumstances, dementia sufferers and those vulnerable to noise can be located in one “zone” whist less vulnerable residents live in an alternative “zone”. Each “zone” can operate different call tones, warning lights or other methods to alert when help is required Reducing noise levels is essential to create a tranquil environment for residents. Pagers have been around for many years, are a relatively simple and cost-effective measure in reducing the levels of noise, and can be added to most Nurse Call systems. Smart Mobile Devices are now becoming more commonplace for care home staff and hold a variety of apps for care planning, e-medication, etc. Many Courtney Thorne clients are now utilising the “Go” app with their Nurse Call system. With the “Go” app, nurse call alarms are delivered immediately and silently straight to the handsets, alerting the individual carers to all Nurse call alarms without creating any general alarm sound and rarely disturbing the rest of the residents in the home.

Calmer residents ultimately means that staff are less stressed also, this creates a happier workplace where morale is greatly improved, staff are retained and CQC ratings improve. Clearly, the positive ramifications of a quiet Care Home run deep. Get in touch today to find out how we can help your home become a quieter, calmer, and more tranquil environment.

For more information email us at: info@c-t.co.uk

Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.

www.nursecallsystems.co.uk

PAGE 56 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

NURSE CALL AND FALLS PREVENTION

NURSE CALL

IT’S NOT OBSOLETE UNTIL THE OPERA LADY SINGS

EDISON TELECOM LTD (IN BUSINESS SINCE 1984)

have spares, enhancements and expertise for wired and wireless systems abandoned by the original manufacturer, whoever they are.

Call us on 01252-330220 We can give most systems a new lease of life and maintain them into the future.

www.edisontelecom.co.uk Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.

Nurse Call Systems from Alarm Radio Monitoring Alarm Radio Monitoring (A.R.M) is a UK based manufacturer of wireless Nurse Call and Staff Alarm systems; offering a comprehensive range of Nurse Call, Staff Alarm, Fire Alarm, and Door Access bespoke systems.

With over 28years experience in the design & development of wireless Nurse Call & Staff Alarm systems, A.R.M has established itself as a key player within the wireless solutions market to the public and private healthcare sectors.

Wireless systems can be fitted while your home remains operational, so you do not have to close rooms off and they offer greater flexibility and ease for future expansion.

Care Homes choose A.R.M nurse call systems because they: • are quick and simple to install.

• make it easier for staff to identify the source of calls because they give full text descriptions.

• give management the tools they need to monitor and control best practice. The system provides a full audit trail of which buttons are pressed and response times.

• failsafe eg alerts you in the event of a system fault or batteries are running low.

• carry a year’s guarantee.

• are supported 24/7, 365 days a year by specialist engineers over the telephone or online.

Take the ongoing cost out of your operation with our unique return to base service exchange policy and low cost of ownership along with flexible finance options.

No matter how demanding your environment, A.R.M believes everyone - whether you’re a customer in a care home or team member - should be within safe reach.

NEW PRODUCTS

NEW - Glove friendly, touch screen display.

Bed Angel – see advert on this page Our new and innovative falls detection system The Bed Angel ensures overnight bed monitoring and protection against falls, wandering and confusion.

For further details: 01568 610 016 or email sales@arm.uk.com

Edison Telecom - Specialist Solutions For Your Nurse Call Systems We here at Edison Telecom Ltd have been providing specialist solutions to your call system requirements tailor-made to each customers needs for over 25 years, says director Bob Johnson.

Is your current Nurse Call “legacy”, obsolete, so full of software bugs or commercially not viable for your current supplier/maintainer to maintain?

We may have just the part and expertise that you are looking for to give your nurse call a further extension to life, adds Bob, “Edison will treat your nurse call with the same compassion that you give to those in your care. There will come a time when your equipment is beyond repair but Edison are experts in extending the life of obsolete systems.” www.edisontelecom.co.uk

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 57

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE Check EU Employees Right To Work, Warns Bizimply Care employers will need to keep clear records of their team members’ immigration and right-to-work status as the UK moves into the post-Brexit ‘hostile environment’ from 1 July. Care workforce specialist Bizimply is warning businesses that they need a clear and accessible record of every employee’s status in order to demonstrate compliance with the regulations.

Under UK law, employers face imprisonment and unlimited fines for knowingly employing someone who does not have the right to work in the UK. Employers using Bizimply’s suite of workforce management software can easily and confidentially record all the necessary status confirmation and supporting documentation for employees, and make it available to check if required.

Employers can be jailed for five years and pay an unlimited fine if found guilty of employing someone who they know or had ‘reasonable cause to believe’ did not have the right to work in the UK.

Details of the Settled Status regulations are at www.gov.uk/eusettledstatus. An employer toolkit is at www.gov.uk/government/collections/eu-settlementscheme-employer-toolkit See the advert this page or visit www.bizimply.com

Global Software Solutions

Leecare is a leading UK and international aged care sector software system. The Platinum 5 (P5) system supports all CQC standards for optimal resident and operational management.

Designed by aged care expert staff and tailored specifically to aged care organisations, P5 assists with predicting, recording and providing evidence for all resident and business needs in one user-friendly system. Leecare’s comprehensive software suite encompasses all clinical and managerial requirements on one platform assisting with the management of clinical risk and freeing up more time for staff to spend with residents all whilst exceeding CQC requirements.

WHAT MAKES US THE EXPERTS?

Our extensive sector knowledge and experience as a result of more than 28 years in the aged care business, positions Leecare to be the software solution of choice across five continents. Our global client base is built of 900+ government, small independent services, and multi-facility corporate organisations in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, and China.

Our senior management team have years of collective experience working in, consulting to, and managing care organisations. This has led us to develop the P5 suite – an unparalleled clinical, care, lifestyle, medication, operations, and financial management software solution specifically created for the health and social care sector.

CUSTOMISATION

Leecare’s comprehensive Platinum 5.0 program is easily customised to meet specific organisational needs. Offering as much or as little flexibility as desired, P5 assessment content across the suite and linked Apps can be modified to provide clients with reassurance that the software is fit for purpose.

Integral to the program is a specialised form and report builder which enables easy tailoring of the program. Organisations can build or modify assessments, monitoring charts care plans and reports as well as change default and individual resident settings ensuring optimal function and success.

Visit www.leecare.co.uk for further information.

Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.

PAGE 58 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE Is It Time To Upgrade Your Workforce Management Technology?

Covid-19 has undeniably challenged care homes and will permanently reshape how many operate. The pandemic sparked the biggest and fastest transformation of the workplace.

Automation, digitalisation and innovation to fit with this new world is happening at a pace that we have never seen before. It’s clear that things are not going to simply return to the way they were, instead we all need to look to the future and re-evaluate systems and processes. Here are five areas that workforce management technology could assist your care home.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Workforce management technology gives you the ability to better manage the health and safety of your employees. You have the tools to ensure optimal shift patterns and rotations that take into account health and safety requirements, procedures and regulations. Your system can tell you things like - who is working where and when? Who in their teams they have been in contact with? If they have been self-isolating - when will it be safe for

them to return to work? Do they need a return-to-work interview? At the touch of a button, you have all the information you need to need to answer these and multiple other questions.

Workforce Planning & Optimisation Workforce management planning and decisions require accurate realtime information. It is extremely difficult to manage your workforce effectively without having detailed information on employee time, attendance, absences, activities, skills and scheduling. This pandemic has led to an extreme disruption around workforce management planning and optimisation. Care homes now need to find ways to ensure that their workforce is optimised under different conditions and a good system can automate many of these processes for you.

Giving employees Control The most successful organisations today are the ones that are putting their employees in control. They view them as their internal customers and are dedicated to serving their needs as well as the needs of the business.

By doing this, they foster a culture of empowered, engaged and motivated staff who are more satisfied, productive and loyal. With the use of selfservice solutions, employees can easily organise and manage their own time, attendance, schedules, annual leave, absences and personal details.

This in turn reduces queries, calls and emails to line managers, HR and Payroll Departments.

MANAGING NEW WAYS OF WORKING

As we move to a post Covid-19 world, it’s expected that new business priorities will lead to the reshaping of teams and upgrading of workforce procedures and policies that will take into account new ways of working. In order to do this, you will require reliable workforce data to determine budgets and costs. Having a proper handle on workforce costs and productivity will be critical to the smooth operation of your care home.

To find out more about how Softworks solutions could benefit your care home visit www.softworks.com or see the advert on page 15.

Even before Covid-19, employers were realising the benefits of introducing more flexible working options. Benefits including; increased productivity, reduced absenteeism and attracting and retaining talent. A good system will give you a fully automated way to record hours worked, maintain flexi balances and manage planned/unplanned absences. Employees can log attendance on a PC, tablet or mobile either by time or by honour-based email timesheets. No need for spreadsheets and no manual processes saving time, eliminating errors and reducing administration.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

everyLIFE Will Be Challenging the Status Quo at The Care Show Event season is in full swing and the team at everyLIFE Technologies are enjoying every minute of it.

Seeing customers, colleagues and peers face to face is a welcome return to normal and everyLIFE has a lot to talk about.

COVID-19 caused many new issues for the social care sector and highlighted many more that have been battled behind closed doors for some time, which the wider public knew little about.

Taffy Gatawa, Chief Information & Compliance Officer at everyLIFE will explore these issues and examine what they mean for social care both now and in the future in her keynote speech, titled “An Uncomfortable Truth: Social care deserves more” at The Care Show, NEC Birmingham, 13th-14th October.

Looking forward to the event, Taffy said “We see so many hardworking professionals dedicate themselves to caring for others on a daily basis. There are common barriers that they have to try to overcome to provide the level of care that they want to, their frustration and disappointment is palpable. We want to do everything we can to help enable the best care possible, regardless of location, setting and need.”

All Your Care Home Needs This October sees the launch of a new business supporting the care sector in the form of Wippet, an online marketplace which is promising to create quite a stir. Wippet is a B2B, many-to-many marketplace where customers can find everything they need - from beds to detergents, from uniforms to food. Wippet is free to the user and provides the simplicity of one website with one login, one basket and one invoice – the ultimate one stop shop.

Matt Oxley is Wippet’s CEO and has had extensive experience in the care sector and is the brains behind the idea.

“I don't believe there's a care provider out there that couldn't benefit significantly from the efficiency Wippet will bring. Our mantra at Wippet is to make buying in healthcare simple. That's what we'll deliver from the moment customers first use our site.”

John Barrowcliffe, Wippet’s commercial and operations director, underlined that sentiment: “When we briefed the platform design we didn't use any other B2B ecommerce websites as our quality benchmark, we looked to the best of the consumer world. Why shouldn't people in B2B enjoy the intuitive and fluid experi-

The Carer Digital Now Available Weekly thecareruk.com/backissues

Our weekly digital edition supports the sector with all the latest news, expert advice and developments Sign up to get the latest edition direct to you at:

thecareruk.com/signup

Just think of a giant Andr Android oid tablet built into a solid oak surr surround, ound, on a base that houses a lar large ge battery to allow you to use it all day long and smooth running wheels for easy movement between rrooms ooms in your car care e home. !

ence of the sites they use personally? We've all enjoyed many-to-many marketplaces and their benefits with brands like ASOS, Airbnb and Deliveroo, we’re just bringing the same technology to the care sector.”

Wippet is known to have signed up some of the biggest players in care suppliers already with a pipeline of customers eagerly anticipating their launch, which has the backing of their new owners who have invested in the team, the platform and Wippet’s marketing.

Oxley continued: “It’s the 21st century and all the information customers need is out there, we’ve just put it all in one convenient place where it’s easy to determine best value from suppliers they know and trust. It’s just about choice, value and convenience. And all our suppliers go through due diligence checks, to provide the assurance that customers can buy from known and trusted supplier brands - but without all the usual effort.”

Although Wippet hasn't launched yet, there already seems to be a long line of customers keen to see what the platform can do for them so the Wippet team will have a busy couple of days ahead of them at Care Show 21 at the NEC on October 13th and 14th.

“So far the response has been overwhelmingly positive, everybody we've spoken to loves the idea and can't wait to try it. We’ll be doing demos at the Care Show and will love to meet more customers and suppliers alike.” said David Meikle, sales and marketing director.

See the advert on page 17 for further details.

Customers and suppliers can also register their interest at www.wippet.com

How to enhance your rresidents esidents experience --!!

Imagine a piece of equipment for your car e care home that can enhance the experience of your rresidents esidents ts mentally y,, mentally, physically and also emotionally Inspir Inspired ed Inspirations have been working dir directly ectly with car care e homes in developing their interactive touch scr screen een activity tables over the last few years, to pr provide ovide a range of scr screen een sizes and units to suit every car care e setting. setting.!!

everyLIFE’s steely focus in its support of the care industry and the people cared about extends to its digital care management platform, PASS. The platform’s newest feature, PASSreporting, uses Artificial Intelligence to track and collate recorded care activities, turning this raw information into actionable insights that carers and care managers can easily apply to enhance the care they provide and the operational efficiencies of their organisation.

Duncan Campbell, Commercial Director at everyLIFE, is excited by the opportunities PASSreporting offers “Care professionals gather a huge amount of information whilst they are with the people they care about, PASSreporting automatically interprets this and flags crucial moments that matter in someone’s care journey, from an increased dependency on care, to an increased likelihood of a fall. It has also been designed to highlight and support the operational needs of care organisation, including staff training requirements and simplified CQC visits, ultimately helping to save time and money.”

To find out more about PASSreporting, visit stand H62 at The Care Show or see the advert on the facing page.

Mentally - Brain training apps, memory apps, board challenges.!! quizzes, boar d games, rreasoning easoning challenges.

Physically - Exer Exercise cise for the elderly online coordination, increased classes, hand eye coor dination, incr eased around large movement to move hands ar ound a lar ge screen.! scr een.!

Emotionally - Reminiscence tours on Google Earth, past and pr present esent clips on Y YouTube YouT ouTu ube of ! interests, hobbies or inter ests, rreligious eligious services and Group Gr oup ZOOM calls to loved ones who cant get person!!! esidents person! to visit in your rresidents !

“We now, “W We use it daily and would not be without ut it now w,, even the rresidents esidents find nd it easy and fun to use.

Thank you!” Sandie Evans, Register red ed Manager r,, Registered Manager, Oakland’ ’s Ca Car arre e Home, Crickhowell Oakland’s Care !

All tables ar e made to or derr, if you’d like to are order, enquir e on a price guide and time scales for enquire .inspir spireddeliveries, just visit their website www www.inspiredinspirations.com com or scan the QR code on the right. For general enquiries, please email ! ! info@inspir ed-inspirations.com! info@inspired-inspirations.com!

“This amazing bit of technology is making a huge di!e di!erence !errence to our ou ur rresidents” esidents” Melanie Dawson, Manager, Manager r, The Lawns L at Heritage Manor

“W We’ve noticed ed that quieter rresidents esidents wh who didn’ “We’ve didn’tt interact too much with others have suddenly been mor re e active ac ctive and mor re e vocal.” Lindsey more more Davies, Home e Manager r,, Cwrt Enfys Manager,

The scr screen een is 5mm temper tempered ed glass for your rresidents esidents safety and sealed against fluid uid ingr ingress ess meaning a spill of a cup of tea won’ won’tt ruin your ! equipment. It also means an easy clean solution cross to stop cr oss contamination using any normal surface cleaner cleaner.! r.!

See the advert on page 48 for details.

! !

THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72 | PAGE 61

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE Reliant Care Solutions Ltd WHY SHOULD CARE HOMES MOVE FROM PAPER TO ELECTRONIC TIME SHEETS

The industry is under considerable financial pressures. An efficient electronic booking on/off system that will schedule, provide budgets, calculate hours worked, overtime and absence such as sickness and holiday entitlement will save Time and Money.

HOW IS TIME AND MONEY SAVED BY DOING THINGS ELECTRONICALLY?

Collecting payroll information from paper timesheets can be slow, prone to errors, and very labour intensive.

Staff rosters can be produced as far in advance as practical and accurate within budgeted hours. Staff book on and off-duty electronically, thus eliminating any time errors.

Wage queries are virtually eliminated and immediate checks can be made without wading through reams of paper which invariably are inaccurate, misfiled or even 'lost".

THERE ARE MANY SYSTEMS ON THE MARKET WHY FACIAL RECOGNITION IS IMPORTANT AND HOW IT WORKS

Some systems use tokens, which can be lost or left at home, requiring management involvement in the booking on/off procedure. Fingerprint systems can be beaten and Social media is awash with ways to copy fingerprints. Face recognition combined with a staff PIN is simple to use and manage using touch screen technology and web cams. Staff see their image displayed immediately when booking on or off and confirms their identity visually. It provides the best deterrent available as it builds a greater 'image knowledge’ of each employee, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Eliminates 'buddy punching' where employees can book colleagues on/off duty using someone’s tokens, swipe card or even fingerprint.

HOW IS DATA PROTECTED? With the correct security setup computer systems provide more data protection than paper-based records which can be easily removed or stolen. GDPR covers all data including paper records and therefore the chances of infringing the rules and incurring fines is greater with paper.

For further information visit www.rcscare.net or call 03333 444 562.

Empowering Your Ambition with Xledger

Changing your finance system is not something you do every day. However, the benefits of taking this leap can advance the success of your care home – with greater insight and automated processes for your team, now and into the future.

Xledger is a leading provider of cloud-based finance software. It helps over 10,000 organisations in 50 countries streamline, digitise and automate their finances.

Accessible at any time, on any web-enabled device, Xledger has the tools to slice and dice your data and to

easily drill down from consolidation to individual level transactions. Its automated software can reduce the amount of time you spend on repeat invoices and expenditures. Xledger also prides itself on delivering a quick and simple implementation process with no requirement for a new IT infrastructure.

Ultimately, the 100% cloud solution helps you to reduce costs, run a leaner, more efficient finance department and understand key financials in real-time.

This gives you the opportunity to add real value to your organisation and frees up your time so you can focus on delivering the best care for your residents.

Xledger will be exhibiting at The Care Show 2021 (Hall: 3A, Stand: F64). Xledger Senior Consultant Peter Hucker will also be hosting a session on the morning of Day 1 of the event, entitled Modernise Your Finance System: Why, How and What to Avoid, which is taking place in the Business Compliance Regulation Theatre.

To book a demo or arrange a 1-2-1 meeting at the Care Show 2021, you can contact them by emailing mail@xledger.co.uk or call 0117 457 3293.

Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.

PAGE 62 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE Why Now Is The Moment To Embrace Digital Health Technology As Part Of The Care Home System

By Axel Nordberg, Essity Global Brand Director (www.essity.com) As we emerge from the depths of a historic pandemic, the words of Florence Nightingale have never rung truer for carers around the world. From adapting to PPE requirements to abiding by social distancing, Covid-19 has forced all carers to relearn key parts of their trade to keep their residents safe and healthy.

Naturally, this has not come without a cost. According to our data at Essity, the pandemic has had a detrimental impact on either the physical health, mental health or emotional wellbeing of more than eight out of ten of the UK carers surveyed. Every carer said their role had changed, with 95% working longer hours to manage urinary incontinence, cleaning and sterilising responsibilities – the highest of any country in Europe. Ultimately, the bravery of our frontline heroes can only endure this emotional and physical toll for so long.

In the face of adversity, however, we must look forward. The development of digital health technology – and the appetite to integrate it into care homes – is accelerating at an exceptional rate, and the industry is realising that it is an essential component of a more efficient, higher quality future for care.

TAKING THE CHANCE TO CHANGE

The pandemic has provided the care industry with a moment to step

back and evaluate how it operates. Alongside the long-term impacts of Covid-19, an ageing population will soon demand a new delivery of care – with care homes unlikely to be able to accommodate every patient that needs their service.

For many, home treatment will become the practical solution. In recent years, digital health technology has made this process safer and more comfortable for those who require care, their families, and their carers. From medication reminder apps and ECG wearables, to information-sharing software that lets nurses access patient data remotely, innovation is delivering products and solutions to cater for home care.

As more care organisations integrate digital health technology into their operations, they build the infrastructure for a digital future of care.

With over a third of carers wanting the government or private companies to invest in more technology, there is a clear appetite to make that next step forward from those that matter.

IMPROVING DIGNITY AND COMFORT THROUGH TECH

To bring the power of digital health technology to life, it is important to discuss it in the context of the real, day-to-day issues putting an insurmountable strain on carers.

Managing urinary incontinence – an important yet challenging aspect of a carer’s day-to-day role – has had both a physical and emotional impact on the carer during the pandemic, with the rate of resultant exhaustion (25%) and resentment (13%) rising by 19% and 10% respectively since 2019. It’s not just the carers that are impacted – 80% of carers find it hard to maintain the dignity of those suffering from the problem.

Deploying technology to address these issues can be life-changing for carers and those needing care alike. However, the UK is currently lagging behind. Only 27% of UK carers said that they have access to

sensor technology to support incontinence care, compared to the European average of 32%.

Reusable sensors, such as our recently launched TENA SmartCare Change Indicator, can track when a patient needs changing and provide app notifications to their carers, ensuring instant attention and avoiding unnecessary checks. With 71% carers currently struggling with the time required to make frequent checks associated with urinary incontinence, this technology is invaluable to the efficiency of their role.

ENABLING A BETTER TOMORROW FOR CARE

The value of digital health technology in the management of urinary incontinence is just one example of the impact it can have in a care environment, albeit a strong one: 98% of UK carers say that it helps them feel better about their role.

This figure alone highlights the value of digital health technology in enabling carers to react to health issues sooner and in a smarter way. By integrating technology into the care routine, any decline in the residents or loved one’s well-being, however slight, can be tracked and used to notify those that can provide the necessary support. As patterns appear in their personal data, it even has the potential to allow carers to predict and prevent various health issues.

As an industry, we must continue to work together – as innovators and carers – to co-create digital health technology solutions that will have a meaningful impact on people’s lives. The pandemic has provided the care sector with an opportunity to engage in digital transformation and provide its frontline heroes with the technological support they need to keep those in care, safe, healthy, and happy. Better connected care will deliver better care, for everyone.

Empower Your Care Teams With Flexible Digital Care Management Nourish Care is a Digital Care Planning provider that works with a range of different care services, including residential, nursing, dementia care, learning disabilities, large care groups and more. The app-based system is made up of digital care plans, custom interactions and personalised timelines for everyone within a care service. The digital platform allows care teams to record at the point of care, and analyse data over time to tailor care plans to the individual’s needs. The most important goal for Nourish is to enable carers to spend less time on admin, and more time providing face-to-face, person-centred care.

Nourish were one of only two software providers to be assured by NHSX for its DSCR (Digital Social Care Records) Digital Purchasing System (DPS) at launch, and were also the first to be certified by the Professional Record Standards Body (PRSB), with whom they worked very closely to define a new set of standards for interoperability across the care sector.

Some of the most recent additions to the Nourish platform include a Medication Module that allows care providers to streamline medication management. The app also now has an additional option to use Nourish Insights - a powerful reporting and analytics feature that allows care owners and managers to closely track and monitor trends within those they support, to continue to improve the delivery of care.

To learn more about the Nourish platform, you can visit them at The Care Show on 13th & 14th October at stand H82. Founder and CEO, Nuno Almeida will also be delivering two talks on the 13th, including Accelerating Quality Improvement by Empowering Circles of Care and Digital Social Care Records - Joining Up Care.

You can also contact Nourish to book your free personalised demo by visiting www.nourishcare.co.uk or calling 02380 002288.

PAGE 64 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

PROPERTY & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

The Recruitment Conundrum

By Anne-Marie Perry, Founder of CareMatch (https://carematch.ltd)

The social care industry is facing an unprecedented challenge in recruitment. Last year alone, providers of adult social care across England had an estimated shortfall of 122,000 full-time staff. The strains of the pandemic, in conjunction with the additional fallout from Brexit, exacerbated existing staff shortages. Now, the requirement for care home staff to be double vaccinated by the 11th of November and the potential for the same to be enforced for social care staff in future, means another 70,000 individuals could be excluded from work, worsening the situation further.

On top of this, the number of people expected to need care in the UK is also on the rise. The Government for Science estimates that in the next 20 years, nearly one in seven people is projected to be aged over 75 in the UK and by 2037 there are projected to be 1.42 million more households headed by someone aged 85 or over – an increase of 161% over 25 years. To cope with that rise, around 650,000 extra care jobs will need to be filled according to Age UK. Transformative action is needed now.

To understand why more people aren’t joining our industry we need to step back and ask ourselves how working in care is perceived by people in the UK. In short, the answer to that question is: not good. Long hours, low pay and difficult work; for many people outside of our industry, the thought of a role in care conjures up one thing – hardship.

To address this there needs to be a cultural reframing of the role of ‘carer’ to incentivise involvement.

Currently, the role of ‘full-time carer’ is a daunting prospect for most. To provide care to those in need doesn’t necessarily require the undertaking of a full-time career. Acts as simple as picking up a prescription or helping to cook dinner once a week can be of profound help. Those who just want to help-out can make a valuable contribution and they need to be encouraged with a change in how the role of ‘carer’ is perceived. This means creating a system which includes the offering of part-time and casual care: one where people can help without having to make a life-changing commitment.

Recent UNISON figures state that more than two thirds (68%) of care workers have seen their mental health decline because of the strained working conditions. Staff shortages mean existing care givers are forced to work longer hours, under harder conditions, which is discouraging new hires that could help alleviate this, effectively causing a vicious cycle.

A new model for organising care, one centred around the local community, has the potential to provide a better experience for everyone.

Under such a model, care giving would be localised, reducing the ‘down’ time givers need to spend travelling, not to mention the money this saves in reduced fuel or transport use. This also means an improved service where care givers can be to hand on shorter notice for those who may need more immediate help. When care roles are planned around the community, close-knit networks of team members are developed. Each individual member then has access to a support network which makes alleviating challenges far easier. When care is managed with a community first approach, the quality improves and the whole perception of social care changes to one which encourages more people to get involved.

Organisational changes are vital for the care industry, but perhaps more pressing is where recruitment is sought out. There are no shortages of people willing to care for others. The shortage is in those willing to pursue a recognised career in care with the industry’s existing obstacles. Providers need to reach out to new groups and demonstrate that they can make a valuable contribution. Students may not have considered a position as a care giver possible, due to the time impact it would likely have on their studies; those who have been furloughed probably wouldn’t rush into the commitment of a career change when they’re expecting to return to work. However, people from previously untapped groups could provide valuable care at a community level. This was proved during the pandemic when 47% of people informally volunteered and 52% of those were helping people affected by COVID-19. People who want to help can do so on a part-time basis to benefit those in their local community who are in need.

The problems facing the care industry are not insurmountable. After all, people haven’t become less inclined to care. Current staff shortages are placing pressure on care givers, reducing the standard of care in some cases and lowering the perception of the entire industry for potential new hires. A change in the way community care giving is structured, the types of people approached for recruitment and a reframing of carer stereotypes could go a long way in solving the challenge.

The Vocabulary of Leadership

By Peter Bewert, Managing Director at Meaningful Care Matters (www.meaningfulcarematters.com)

Leadership! It’s a word that is commonly stated in many different situations. It comes up in personal, professional, social, family, and many other aspects of life. But what does it really mean and further still, what does it really do? Some would say that leaders are part of a bureaucratic chain that seeks to control the lives of us mere minions, conforming us to societal rules made by leaders who are above the leaders, and the bigger leaders beyond that… bureaucracy at its best!

So, many self-help and leadership books assert we must ‘tap into the leader within’, well, what happens when one struggles with deciding what to have for breakfast and praying that we simply make it through the day without inadvertently telling someone to ‘go away’ (usually said

with a more uncouth colloquial vernacular in one’s head and on occasions, out loud).

As human beings, we complicate many things all too frequently and most of the time unnecessarily. Leadership is simple. The test of a good leader is whether that person inspires you to make a change to better yourself as a person. Leadership, therefore, is about engagement, interaction, relationships, and connections which are meaningful and that matter. We all have the ability to tap into the leader within.

Just as we all have the ability to use our leadership to inspire and empower, or to create a feeling of disenchantment around us. Over 25 years of working in health and social care, I have learnt 4 top motivators of emotionally led leadership. If we embrace these top four principles, we will undoubtedly influence positive cultures where people are real, people are genuine, and people can connect meaningfully: 1. Know Yourself: When we know ourselves and how we like to interact and engage with others, this is the first step to authentic meaningful relationship. This is the foundation of leadership.

2. Know your communication style: Knowing the way you like to give and receive information is important. This allows us to develop our communication styles where we are not so strong and in which others may have as their preference. This allows for better understanding.

3. You are not an oracle: Being open to other ideas and ways of thinking are essential. We don’t know everything and, sure, we can bring our best to the table, but when we truly listen to the collective thoughts and ideas of those who we engage with, that’s how we move from good to great.

4. You have a heart for a reason: People are driven by the heart and soul of their emotions. The difference between good leaders and great

leaders is understanding emotional intelligence and the impact of emotions on people and their actions. This means being open to feelings and emotions and learning to not only recognise them, but to also speak the language of feelings.

Culture is an umbrella term outlining the societal norms and behaviours which govern our behaviours. One could argue culture designs us and, in part, this is true. However, culture is shaped by the people within. Leaders have the ability to impact culture. The question is, what influence will we exert on moulding our cultures of the future? I would like to think we are all seeking for a better world for ourselves and future generations to experience. This can only come when we embrace agile, emotionally intelligent framework, and this has to come from our leadership styles in action. Feelings, actions, interactions, and knowledge will shape our cultures of the future; we are the designers of the culture we wish to see.

Good leadership begins with self. It empowers self and others to be the best version of ‘me’ and embrace the unique individualism that comes from the diversity of beliefs and cultural practices.

So, what are you going to influence today?

Peter Bewert is the Managing Director at Meaningful Care Matters, a leading care and organisational development group that specialises in helping health and social care providers to access a variety of support services. The group helps to facilitate the creation, reinvigoration and sustainable implementation of person-centred care cultures where people matter, feelings matter, and we are ‘Free to be Me’. Contact the team on admin@meaningfulcarematters.com.

NCF “Connecting In A New Way”! With Launch Of New Information Governance Network NCF has partnered with Ryalto using their mobile app for their new Information Governance Network (IG Network).

Launched on 20th September, this new initiative is part of NCF’s digital strategy to engage members with new technology to connect and share good practice.

NCF is acknowledged as showing leadership in the digital arena and with two dedicated digital transformation leads, remaining at the forefront of innovation.

The Ryalto app provides a safe, secure digital space perfect for communications and engagement: A live news feed to keep members updated and informed A ring-fenced messenger to collaborate and share best practice across care and support providers A survey tool to get instant feedback on members’ opinions An announcement and alerts system for immediate and critical notifications.

Claire Sutton, NCF Digital Transformation Lead, who is heading up the IG Network said, “The Ryalto app for our new IG Network is the perfect place to trial this technology. It provides a platform to share good practice around all things information governance, cyber security and GDPR, whilst also creating a community amongst our members.

By sharing via the news feed or the messenger function, users will break down the multifaceted topic of Information Governance and signpost individuals to the information they need and when they need it. This, in turn, will ensure that sensitive information is shared safely.Ryalto is designed to enhance communications and engagement across Social Care and Healthcare organisations, connecting people to purpose and each other. NCF members interested in understanding how Ryalto could work for them contact info@ryaltogroup.com.

For more details about joining the NCF IG Network contact claire.sutton@nationalcareforum.org.uk

PAGE 66 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

PROPERTY & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

How To Make Yourself An Attractive Proposition To Investors

By Pinesh Mehta, investor at BGF (www.bgf.co.uk)

The care sector has been at the forefront in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. For 18 months it has faced extraordinary challenges that have stress tested the business, both financially and operationally, while placing considerable pressure on key workers and service users under their care.

COVID-19 has undoubtedly forced many providers to reevaluate their proposition, highlighting the need to invest in a service that has proved vital during the course of 2020.

While some may view it as an opportunity to expand and accelerate future growth plans, others will view the pandemic as a tipping point in the company’s lifecycle, deciding now is the time to exit the business.

Whatever the motivation, the importance of investment capital in realising those opportunities is clear. So, in a marketplace that is worth around £16.5 billion a year and caters for the needs of over 400,000 service users , how can you make yourself an attractive proposition to investors, whether that’s gearing up for growth, or an exit?

CONSISTENTLY GOOD CARE If a business provides a consistently good quality of care – and, crucially, it maintains that quality as it expands – everything else follows. This is often measured by care quality user ratings from external inspectors – such as the Care Quality Commission – as well as internal data, including a serious incidents log. No matter how profitable, investors won’t invest in a care business if it doesn’t provide a high enough standard of care.

HAPPY, MOTIVATED STAFF Retaining staff is a formidable challenge in an industry where roughly three in ten care workers leave their jobs each year. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, many workers are suffering from burnout, competition from other employers is high, and Brexit has made it harder to recruit from the European Union.

Successful companies offer apprenticeship schemes, career progression and incremental pay rises to ensure hard-working care staff are rewarded.

CLIENTS VALUE THE SERVICE The need for care is rising due to an ageing population and the impact of the pandemic. Yet the quality of care across the industry is mixed and there is a good deal of regional variation in terms of supply and demand. To identify excellent businesses with a reliable pipeline of future clients, investors look for high occupancy rates, as well as using average weekly fees as a benchmark.

A GROWTH-FOCUSED TEAM Investors want to back ambitious businesses with exciting growth plans, but the management team must have the skills needed to turn ambitions into reality. Investment firms look for individuals with a track record of acquiring, developing and integrating new sites into the business. They also pay close attention to how the core estate has performed over time, as this is a good indicator of how future sites will perform.

REGIONAL CLUSTERING Operations at a care business can swiftly become unmanageable if the business is spread over too wide an area. The key is a growth plan focused on geographica clusters; that way, regional managers can oversee operations at several sites without having to travel hundreds of miles. Clustering is easier to achieve if the business pursues a blended strategy – building up new sites from scratch, as well as acquiring existing ones.

ABILITY TO ACHIEVE SCALE Inevitably there will be consolidation in the care industry, in which roughly three-quarters of care homes are run by single-site operators, according to EY-Parthenon. Acquiring sites is the quickest way to grow, whereas developing new sites can provide a bigger boost to the overall value of the business, but this takes longer – on average, it takes two to three years for a new site to reach maturity. If done well, more scale equals a higher enterprise multiple and a more valuable business.

LOOKING AHEAD High acuity services is a sector that has significant investment potential in the current marketplace – particularly those providers who care for adults with learning difficulties in an area where demand continues to outstrip supply, especially for operators that provide a high quality of care. As well as offering a potential return, backing these types of businesses is clearly a good thing from a society perspective.

Pinesh Mehta is an investor at BGF – the UK and Ireland’s most active capital growth investor. The company has invested in 28 businesses in the healthcare sector in recent years, totalling £162m of investment. These include Springfield Healthcare, Dolphin Homes, as well as The Good Care Group.

The Social Care Sector Faces The Most Unprecedented Workforce Crisis And Needs Urgent Government Support It is clear that care providers are struggling to recruit and this is due to a combination of factors including low wages, the pandemic, Brexit-related workforce changes and the implementation of the double vaccination policy. This is against a backdrop of an increasing number of adults who need support across the country.

Aston Brooke Solicitors working in conjunction with Care England, the largest representative body for independent providers of adult social care, has urged the government to provide more support to stem the workforce crisis in adult social care.

Professor Martin Green OBE, CEO of Care England said: “Quite simply care providers are at breaking point. The writing is on the wall and without immediate help, as given to the NHS, the social care sector will crumple and not be there to support the NHS over the winter let alone in years to come”.

Care England wrote to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Sajid Javid, outlining the crisis in the sector and the steps required to be taken by government with immediate effect.

This included: • Expanding the social care workforce by recruiting an additional 35,000 to 70,000 workers from abroad to combat the effects of the mandatory vaccination.

• Reducing the qualifying level for overseas recruitment for social care staff (£25,600).

• The inclusion of all care workers to the Shortage Occupation List and reducing the salary threshold for immigration • Waiving the Immigration Skills Charge for care workers

• Fast-track system to grant visas under sponsorship licenses for people working in social care • Bonuses/increase pay • Direct support to help fund those suffering from PTSD • The need for the continuation of COVID funds.

Martin added: “We have done an enormous amount of work on what could and should be done to help the adult social care workforce and hope that we can look to the government for support.”

Following the footsteps of Care England, a ground-breaking report by Community Integrated Care has found that the social care sector losing more than 34% of its employees every year and having 112,000 vacancies presently, this research brings into stark focus the roots of an unprecedented workforce crisis.

The social care sector is anxiously awaiting the government’s response on this pressing issue.

Aston Brooke is working tirelessly to address the recruitment crisis by assisting care providers. If any care providers require further information, please contact Mr Kashif Majeed at km@astonbrooke.co.uk See the advert on page 27 for further information.

Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.

PAGE 68 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 72

PROPERTY & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Will Care Homes Face an Uncertain Future Without Further Financial Support?

By John Rozenbroek, CFO/COO at Capify (www.capify.co.uk) Care home workers have been at the forefront of the battle against coronavirus, and the sector has faced incredible challenges throughout this pandemic.

Reduced revenue due to a drop in the number of residents; an increased need for workers; high staff turnover and the additional cost of PPE and other safety measures within care homes has had a significant impact on cash flow for these businesses.

The pandemic has highlighted just how crucial care homes are and the important role they play in supporting our loved ones at the end of their lives. However, there are fears now that without further financial support, the sector will suffer, and so will the level of care residents have access to.

As lockdown restrictions continue to ease and the country starts to reopen, do care homes really have everything they need to recover from this crisis?

THE NEED FOR GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Unlike NHS-run hospitals, care homes are often privately owned businesses and therefore their revenue comes from patient fees. In an effort to help the sector in its recovery, the Government announced additional financial support for care homes, including a £600 million adult social care infection control fund. However, this funding was distributed across local authorities and deployed at their discretion, and therefore wasn’t readily available to every care home business.

Boosting cash flow was the top priority for 57% of businesses in our recent survey, proving there is still huge demand for working capital.

For adult care homes having working capital to ensure high-quality care can be given to all residents and that they have the staff needed to deliver this is absolutely key. Cash in the bank is a necessity.

On top of all of this, the pandemic has put enormous pressure on workers within the care sector and as a result, many businesses have experienced high staff turnover and sickness, leading to a shortage of key skills. The State of Health Care and Adult Social Care report gives an indication of the toll the pandemic has had on the social care workforce with 7.5% of working days lost to staff sickness, compared with 2.7% pre-COVID-19.

But it's clear that SMEs, and especially those within the care sector are still in desperate need of finance this year despite the huge

amounts of money that have been lent through the BBLS and CBILS. The Pay as You Grow scheme will provide some welcome relief for many businesses, but it does not address the fundamental issue, which is that SMEs still need finance.

The majority of the UK’s ‘big banks’ are much happier lending to larger businesses with a long track record of profitability. But that doesn’t help SMEs and the impacts of the pandemic will have damaged the chances of many smaller businesses getting finance from a big bank.

That’s where I think the fintech industry will need to step up more than ever before to help companies bridge the gap. There’s already been huge growth with more and more business owners looking to get finance more quickly; with a simpler approach and with more flexibility.

For these reasons, I expect 2021 will be a big year for alternative lenders with the support for the care sector set to be high on the agenda.

Capify is an online lender that provides flexible financing solutions to SMEs seeking working capital to sustain or grow their business. The fintech company has been operating in the UK market for over 13 years and also has a sister company, Capify Australia, which provides similar services to Australian SMEs for over 13 years.

For more details about Capify, visit: http://www.capify.co.uk

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

Selling by Auction Is the Fastest and Most Certain Way to Complete a Property Transaction

Owing to the pressures of the Covid-19 pandemic, Charles Darrow Auctions is experiencing increasing demand from business owners looking to sell their Care Home premises by auction.

While government support continues, property availability is still low. However, market demand from buyers searching for former Care Homes for either investment purposes or alternative uses is high.

We are seeing sellers successfully take advantage of the high levels of market demand right now, rather than waiting to join what is likely to become a saturated market, with an anticipated influx of commercial property likely to be hitting the market in the first quarter of 2022.

To satisfy this demand, we are looking for entries into our next auction and will consider all types of Care Home.

Our company ethos is to achieve the best price possible by providing the most up to date accurate marketing advice to our clients.

Lucy Fuller, Auction Surveyor at Charles Darrow commented “An auction sale can often take as little as

four weeks from instruction to an exchange of contracts, whereas a standard Private Treaty sale is currently taking on average four to six months to reach exchange of contracts, with no guarantee the buyer will not withdraw from the transaction at any point in the process.

Our auction process allows people to seriously commit to a purchase when bidding, as contracts will exchange instantly to the highest bidder at the fall of the gavel”.

Sadly, a lot of business owners around the UK are now in some form of financial distress and with this likely to worsen as government support is withdrawn, a quick method of sale is likely to be required by many of them before the year end.

We believe that selling by auction is truly the fastest and most certain way to complete a property transaction and we would love to have the opportunity to discuss your marketing options with you.

If we can help you, please contact the Auction team at Charles Darrow on 01626 572894 / 01626 330022 or visit www.charlesdarrow.co.uk/auctions