T H E P U B L I C AT I O N F O R N U R S I N G A N D R E S I D E N T I A L C A R E H O M E S Issue 105
W W W. T H E C A R E R U K . C O M
THECARERUK
THECARERUK
THECARER_UK
Exploitation Fears as Migrant Care Workers Charged Thousands in Recruitment Fees
Carer workers recruited from overseas are being illegally charged thousands of pounds and driven to work in exploitative conditions to pay their debts, according to an investigation. The investigation by The Observer reveals that care workers from the Philippines, India, Africa and elsewhere abroad are finding themselves trapped into modern slavery known as ‘debt bondage’ by agents who withhold money
from their wages, withhold their passports and even resident permits until the fees are repaid. It is illegal for recruitment agencies to charge job candidates a fee for trying to find them work, however, the investigation has revealed that migrant care workers being paid £10 an hour jobs are being charged fees ranging from between £3,000 to £18,000.
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EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital! I was shocked when I put together our front-page story on modern day slavery. I have to confess after researching and producing the story I also felt a little shamed and humbled. Several years ago, we were dealing with a large company (overseas) who were promoting with us, but would not go any further until we produced a “antimodern day slavery policy”. Frankly, at the time I thought it was a bit over the top. We are a publisher based in Bournemouth and slavery was something one associated with a very shameful period in history. Surely one would think that in the 21st century Britain this would not happen. So how shocked I was to see the research that it is. This week I will be putting out an alert to sector experts to supply us with an article to raise awareness and on what policies companies/businesses within the sector should do to help stamp out these horrendous practices, and what businesses legal obligations are – so please do watch out for comment in future issues! On another note, we have just returned from a one day care event in the West Country, the Care & Occupational Therapy Show (www.careexhibition.co.uk) I am delighted to say it was an excellent show! Shows give us the opportunity to network with many of our loyal and valued clients, and we also get the opportunity to engage with sector workers on the frontline, from all levels, and that includes owners, directors, managers, frontline care workers, chefs and kitchen staff. In our business (publishing) feedback is vital. Keeping the sector updated with relevant news, products and services as well as advice, guidance and best practice from industry experts, we try to do best, and if we don’t quite get it right we want to know about it! We were thrilled with the comments received, so thank you very much. Concerns at the show were raised regarding possible spikes in Covid in care home. There is a news item this issue (see page 5) surrounding a summer spike. UKHSA director Dr Mary Ramsay said: “After a period of low case rates, we are now seeing increases in
Editor
Peter Adams
outbreaks within care homes and in hospitalisations among those aged 80 years and over .As we enter summer, it’s still important to remember that COVID-19 has not gone away and to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill with the virus. If you’re not yet up-todate with your jabs please come forward now – it is not too late to get protected.” And I have read reports that a resurgence in the flu, coupled with a potential increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, could cause for concern. Once again we will be contacting some of the sectors leading experts on how to reduce risk. Even the simplest of steps are likely important to continue with the protective measures that were employed the past two years against COVID-19. Despite the numerous agreements and disagreements we have seen surrounding Covid and vaccinations etc, all the experts still agree that masking, handwashing, and social distancing can all go a long way in preventing the spread of both the flu and coronavirus. Thank you all once again the many stories we receive from residential in care homes/settings around the UK. From awards to birthdays to celebrations, charity events and initiatives we are delighted to receive them and of course publicise them, sharing all your successes, which we feel it vital to the sector which can sometimes find itself in the court of public opinion so please do keep them coming to editor@thecareruk.com We’ve also seen some wonderful stories on our new Instagram feed, which you can follow at www.instagram.com/thecarer_uk
“There are only four kinds of people in the world. Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.” ROSALYN CARTER The Carer is published by RBC Publishing Ltd, Suite 4, Roddis House, Old Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth, Dorset. Contributions are welcome for consideration, however, no responsibility will be accepted for loss or damage. Views expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or the editorial team. Whilst every care is taken when compiling this publication to ensure accuracy, the publisher will assume no responsibility for any effects, errors or omissions therefrom. All rights reserved, reproduction is forbidden unless written permission is obtained. All material is assumed copyright free unless otherwise advised.
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THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 3
Exploitation Fears as Migrant Care Workers Charged Thousands in Recruitment Fees (CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER) The fees are often hidden as a “processing”, “service” or “admin” charge, with many workers unaware they are illegal. Often, the breakdown of fees or full amount is not fully divulged until the worker has reached the UK, by which time they have already paid for flights and relocation. Earlier this year, the government added care workers to Britain’s shortage occupation list to try to make it easier for foreign workers to start care jobs in the UK. But this year has also seen a number of raids linked to the care sector by the Home Office’s Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) investigating modern slavery abuses. This has resulted in several recent crackdowns by the UK’s labour abuse agency and data from charities and the Care Quality Commission pointing to an increase in cases. An internal report by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, viewed by the Observer, said both nursing homes and universities need more surveillance to “prevent debt bondage and flag potential traffickers”.
'NOTABLE RISE' IN MODERN SLAVERY Kate Terroni, chief inspector of adult social care at England’s care regulator the Care Quality Commission has said there had been a “notable rise” in referrals for modern slavery in 2022. This year so far, there have been 14 referrals – double the number for 2021. In December, a couple running a recruitment agency were arrested following a GLAA raid on their home
and other addresses on suspicion of exploiting vulnerable students and supplying them to six care homes in North Wales. Nine Indian students were recognized as potential victims of modern slavery and labour abuse with GLAA officers finding workers sleeping on mattresses on the floor in cramped, cold and unsanitary conditions. Working with Welsh regulator the Care Inspectorate, all the care homes that used workers supplied by the couple's recruitment agency were notified.
“BE AWARE OF THE SIGNS OF EXPLOITATION' GLAA Senior Investigating Officer Martin Plimmer said: “We would encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and to be aware of the signs of exploitation in this sector. Most importantly, we would urge you to report your concerns to us. Your information really counts and allows us to conduct operations such as this one.” The government published a revised Code of Practice for International Recruitment in February 2021. The DHSC spokesman added: “Any accusations of illegal employment practices will be fully investigated by the Gangmaster and Labour Abuse Authority, and those found operating unlawfully may face prosecution”. ”However, evidence collected by the Observer, including interviews with suspected victims, charities and labour specialists, conversations with agents and analysis of payslips, contracts and online chat groups has revealed the new visa route is being widely abused by agencies and traffickers, leaving workers open to exploitation”.
#GladtoCare Week Celebrates the Care Sector
The Carer is delighted to support #GladtoCare Week 2022 – a national awareness week dedicated to celebrating those who work in the care sector, which has returned for its third year. Following the great success of the inaugural #GladtoCare Awareness Week that saw over 500 care homes take part and the #GladtoCare hashtag used over three million times in just one week, The Carer will be getting involved in the event, which aims to celebrate the extraordinary contributions that carers make to the lives of recipients of care, their families, and community members. Spearheaded by Person Centred Software and Autumna, two major players in the care industry, #GladtoCare Week takes place from Monday 20th to Friday 24th June 2022. With the 2022 theme being ‘celebration’, participants will be invited to join in with a variety of fun and innovative activities throughout the week, designed to get the entire care community and its residents involved. This year’s activities include virtual fitness sessions, cooking competitions and a virtual open day. Despite the worst of the pandemic being behind us, the organisers hope that the week will continue to highlight the outstanding dedication displayed by carers
throughout the crisis, who have gone above and beyond to make sure care home residents are kept safe, happy and entertained. It aims to champion their incredible work whilst simultaneously allowing them to shout about why they’re glad to work in the care sector. Speaking of the initiative, Jonathan Papworth, Founder of Person Centred Software, said: “The responses to the last two #GladtoCare Weeks were fantastic and saw hundreds of care providers across the UK get involved at the height of the pandemic. Two years on, and with the effects of COVID-19 still very much impacting the sector, we were keen for the event to return.” “We hope that as many care providers and care workers will get involved as possible to shine a light on all of the incredible work that’s been done, and continues to be done, within the industry, much of which often goes unnoticed and underappreciated.” Jonathan concluded. For more information on #GladtoCare Week, please visit www.gladtocare.com. To keep up to date with the happenings of #GladtoCare Week, please visit: GladToCare (@GladToCare)
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The Power Of Music – A Natural Medicine The long awaited Power of Music report created by Music for Dementia and UK Music has now been released and shows how music can be used to benefit communities to improve the health and wellbeing of the nation. The idea reflected in the report is to integrate music into our health care and education, unlocking its full therapeutic value. To achieve this, the culture Secretary, Nadine Dorries will appoint the UK’s first Power of Music Commissioner to champion future developments in this area. This will be supported by a public awareness campaign and an online information platform to be developed by Universal Music. The report highlighted that music therapy not only reduces agitation but also reduces the need for medication in 67 % of people with dementia. Kelly Bleasdale, Senior Manager for Essex Dementia Care comments “At EDC we are focussed on enabling our clients to continue
enjoying an active, independent lifestyle for as long as possible. Our activity based group sessions based in Bradwell, Braintree, Sandon, Chelmsford and Broomfield, Chelmsford offer a wide variety of fun and inspiring leisure activities. Because we have always believed in the deeply therapeutic power of music, it plays a starring role in our activity sessions. Clients enjoy singing along, recognising familiar songs, and listening to music as part of their day with us. We have witnessed first-hand how music lifts the spirit and provides a calming effect on clients in a group setting. We will continue to explore more ways to integrate music into not only our activity sessions but also into the One2One tailored sessions we offer. For more information on all services provided by EDC please visit https://www.essexdementiacare.org.uk/ or call 01245 363 789 to speak to an experienced team.
Free Event - Preparing For Your Child’s Transition To Adulthood On Friday 24th June, Dimensions (https://dimensions-uk.org), one
The event will provide practical information about housing options,
of the UK’s largest providers of support for adults with learning dis-
arranging your loved one’s finances, as well as what you need to know
abilities and / or autism, is hosting a free online webinar for any family
about the Law and individual legal rights.
whose child is leaving specialist education in the summer of 2023 or
The webinar aims to ensure that families are fully informed, and
2024. For anyone currently facing the transition of their loved one from child to adult social care services, the process can often be complex and overwhelming. Especially with the legal rights of children changing as they reach adulthood.
that transition planning isn’t left until the last minute. Join the webinar to hear top tips from people with learning disabilities, and the families who have recently been through the transition to adult social care. There will also be a chance to put forward questions to a panel of family experts.
The webinar will take place via Zoom from 11am-12:30pm on Friday 24th June. Transitions teams and schools are also welcome to join. Book your free tickets here: https://tinyurl.com/mr3vm4bn
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Summer Covid Spike Hits Care Homes The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported an increase in care home COVID outbreaks over the past week. The number of suspected outbreaks of coronavirus across the UK in the week ending June 12 was 221, up from 96 the previous week and the highest since the start of May. There were 153 outbreaks detected in care homes, up week on week from 67, with 102 outbreaks having a least one linked case that tested positive for Covid-19. Health experts said they were assessing whether the rise could reflect the impact of new Omicron strains BA.4 and BA.5, which were recently categorised “variants of concern” and have been linked with an increase in prevalence of the virus in parts of the UK. The figures also show the rate of hospital admissions of people with Covid-19 among the over-85s was 52.7 per 100,000 in the most recent week, up from 41.9 and the second weekly rise in a row. Dr Mary Ramsay, director of clinical programmes at the UKHSA,
said, “After a period of low case rates, we are now seeing increases in outbreaks within care homes and in hospitalisations among those aged 80 years and over. “It is encouraging that we are not seeing an increase in intensive care unit admissions but we are monitoring data closely and assessing the possible impact of subvariants BA.4 and BA.5. “As we enter summer, it’s still important to remember that covid19 has not gone away and to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill with the virus. If you’re not yet up to date with your jabs please come forward now – it’s not too late to get protected. “Remember to observe good hand and respiratory hygiene. It is also sensible to wear a face covering in crowded, enclosed spaces. If you have any symptoms of a respiratory infection, and a high temperature or feel unwell, try to stay at home or away from others – especially elderly or vulnerable people.”
A Hat for Every Occasion- Manton Heights ABI Unit Supports Action for Brain Injury Awareness Week A combination of fun events and raising awareness was the main focus for Manton Heights ABI Unit in support of Action for Brain Injury Awareness Week. Throughout the week the team from the Bedford Acute Brain Injury unit and patients held numerous events and activities to raise awareness regarding brain injuries. The weeks big finale saw everyone take part in “Hats for Headway Day” where staff and patients wore fun hats to show their support for Headway and the great things they do. Headway is a fantastic community resource for patients that have sustained a brain injury and require ongoing therapy or social groups to help with their ongoing recovery. As part of the awareness week Headway Bedford held an information event at the ABI Unit so that the patients could hear about the services that Headway offers once they are discharged from the ABI Unit. Unit Manager Rose Bradshaw explained the importance of the events organised for Action for Brain Injury Awareness Week and also supporting Hats for Headway. “We really enjoyed taking part in both brain injury awareness week and “hats for Headway” this year. There is still so much to do to
ensure people have good awareness of brain injuries and they can affect not only the person who has sustained the injury but also the people around them. This is important to help bust myths and stereotypes that can often accompany someone who has had a brain injury. It’s vital that people know what to look for with a suspected brain injury and also to be reassured that despite brain injury often being a life changing event that there can still be life, good life after them. “ The team of Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists and Rehabilitation Therapists at the ABI Unit located in Bedford are dedicated to providing support to the patients at the Unit. Their dedication to supporting those who come in to the unit is evident when a patient is able to leave and is on the road to recovery, as explained by a recent patient was discharged during Brain Injury Awareness Week, “When I came to the ABI unit, I had no hope, I wasn’t walking I couldn’t talk, I thought my life was over, the team here have been fantastic and instrumental in my recovery, I’m now leaving walking and able to communicate, I now have hope again for the future”. Patient – R Buck.
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Solving The Social Care Skills Crisis
By Geraldine Donworth, Industry Manager – City & Guilds (www.cityandguilds.com)
The pandemic has highlighted the many longstanding issues that our health and social care sectors have been facing for many years, including insufficient funding and under-resourcing. And now, amidst rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis, the sector is under even more significant pressure. As inflation causes real wages to shrink, there are reports of a “mass exodus” of thousands of staff to jobs in other industries. With pressure mounting on local authority funding, and brewing burnout amongst staff because of intense pressure during the pandemic, which has not been alleviated owing to significant skills shortages, urgent action is required. However so far, Government solutions have focused on short-term initiatives and have failed to address this crucial issue. For example, the £500 million announced to support the adult social care workforce over the next 3 years is of course welcome, but there is no mathematical link between the amount of money promised and the level of need. Likewise in May, the Chancellor announced £15 billion to help families with rising costs. However, this represents a drop in the ocean for care staff struggling with soaring living and increased fuel costs after more than a decade of real term pay cuts, as pay increases have failed to rise in line with inflation. Yet, our need for a skilled workforce in care is only growing; our Great Jobs research (2022) research found that by 2026 we’re likely to see 166,169 new job openings for residential care and home care workers roles alone. Now, more than ever, social care needs a sustainable employee pipeline with new recruits coming through the door, and effective employee incentives to retain them. But continuing low attractiveness is failing the sector. Our research found that ongoing negative attitudes towards social care mean that only 25% of
working age people in the UK would consider a job in the sector. When asked why respondents wouldn’t consider a job in social care, the top three reasons included low pay (23%), that they feel they have a lack of relevant skills or experience or qualifications (24%) and unsociable hours (18%). With an average salary of just £18,602 across all social care jobs - compared to £30,000 in retail and £25,000 in hospitality - and with 67% of current workers in the sector saying that better pay would make them feel happier or prouder to do their jobs, insufficient pay is a credible concern for job seekers, and an issue that somehow needs to be addressed. The positive news is that, as we well know, there’s plenty to celebrate and value about working in social care. 61% of all respondents said that they would feel proud to work in the sector, whilst the people already working in the social care sector were some of the proudest of their work: 80% said they are proud of their job and a further 83% said their job gives them a sense of purpose. For employers to be able to recruit the skilled workforce they need in the years to come, it’s clear that work needs to be done to improve recognition and reputation of these social care roles by Government, employers, and wider society – making these jobs more attractive, aspirational, and affordable for those that work in them. Whilst addressing the concerns around staff salaries and terms and conditions are important, there are other ways that jobs in the sector could be portrayed as attractive, including highlighting that flexible working is possible and ensuring progression and career opportunities are all available to encourage new people to join the profession and existing workers to stay. We urge employers to continue to work with sector stakeholders to lobby Government to act now: to improve recognition of these roles, invest sufficient funds into the system, encourage applications from the wider talent pool and help people discover the jobs and career progression opportunities available in the sector. Only then will we have the talent we need both for now and for the future.
Care Home Resident Cheers on Chairboys on Visits to Adams Park and Wembley Stadium To help encourage his lifelong love of football, The Heights, nursing care home in High Wycombe, arranged for resident Grantley Hoath to visit not only Adam Park, but also Wembley Stadium to watch his favourite team The Wycombe Wanderers. Being a lifelong Wycombe Wanderers supporter, Grantley was thrilled on hearing that his son Nigel was treating him to a football match. When the day came, carers in the home helped Grantley get suitably attired in his Wycombe football shirt, hat and scarf and was supported on his journey to Adams Park Stadium by his carer Donna and Activity Co-ordinator Junior. As an added surprise on arrival, Nigel had arranged for his father to be seated in a box with his family and friends.
Throughout the match, Grantley was all smiles and thoroughly enjoyed the game. In the end, the Wycombe Wanderers (Chairboys) were able to beat Sheffield Wednesday, which secured Wycombe the chance to appear at Wembley Stadium a few weeks later. Luckily for Grantley, the home and his son Nigel were able to procure him and his family a selection of tickets, allowing Grantley to see his favourite team play at the magnificent stadium. Grantley’s son Nigel commented: “My father loves Wycombe Wanderers and always enjoyed going to the games. These are very special moments and we are all looking forward to next season and doing this a lot more regularly now life is getting back to some form of normality. Junior and Donna were fantastic in ensuring all his needs were met.”
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Calls for Plan to Stop Social Care From 'Being The Bottleneck' for Hospitals AMBULANCES and their patients are queuing outside hospitals because there is no social care to allow beds to be freed up, it was said today. And angry care providers have called for urgent action to stop them from being a bottleneck in the healthcare route. A report by the Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch says delays are being caused because hospitals are struggling to free up beds. The Independent Care Group (ICG) said it had warned for decades that failing to reform and invest in social care would have consequences for other care. ICG Chair Mike Padgham said: “This isn’t rocket science. If we have no care available we will have delayed discharges from hospitals and if we can’t free up beds then we will get ambulances queuing at the doors and patients suffering. “The equation is simple – invest in proper reform and funding of social care. Increase the availability of homecare and of care and nursing home beds and you will free up hospital beds to look after those who urgently need them.
Care Levy to be urgently fast-tracked to the frontline to help with staff recruitment, improving staff pay and social care delivery where it is needed. “At the moment, the bulk of that £36bn fund is set to go to the NHS first – but we are calling for social care to get an equal share quickly” Mr Padgham added. “Otherwise, care provision will continue to suffer, providers will leave the sector, hospitals will remain choked and hundreds of thousands of people will be left without the care they need.” The ICG wants to see: •
A root and branch overhaul of the way social care is planned and funded
• “Instead, the Government continues to insist that there is adequate care capacity in the system – well here is the evidence that that is just, plain wrong.” The ICG is calling for social care’s share of the Health and Social
NHS care and social care merged and managed locally or nationally
•
Extra funding for social care, funded by taxation
•
Dementia treated and funded like other high priority illnesses
•
A fixed percentage of GDP to be spent on social care
•
Proper pay, conditions and career structure for carers
•
Social care businesses to be zero-rated for VAT.
Brew For Two: Charity Launches New Drive To Help People Reconnect A new initiative aimed at helping people reconnect, while raising money for a veterans’ charity, has been launched. Brew for Two is encouraging people to invite a friend, family member or neighbour for a cuppa and catch-up, and has been launched by Royal Star & Garter. The charity provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia, from Homes in Solihull, Surbiton and High Wycombe. Members of the public can send off for a Brew for Two pack for just £5. They will receive two quality teabags, an invitation card to write, and a stamped envelope to make it easier to organise the get together. Once a Brew for Two pack has been received, participants can choose how best to put it to use – they could bake a cake to go with the tea, enjoy the hot drink with a board game, or make the most of the weather and have it as part of a picnic. Users can also post pho-
tos on social media using the hashtag #BrewForTwo Enjoying a cuppa and a chat is a popular pastime among Royal Star
& Garter residents, and Brew for Two is inspired by the friendships and bonds that form in the Homes over shared moments. Sophie Fanning-Tichbourne, Royal Star & Garter’s Partnerships Manager, said: “We know that community and support networks are so important for our wellbeing and over the past two years we have not been socialising as much as we used to. Now is the perfect time to invite a friend, family member or neighbour to join you for a cup of tea over a catch-up, while supporting the veterans in our care. We want to help you celebrate small moments of connection and joy with someone you haven’t seen enough of with Brew for Two.” The purchase of each pack will go towards helping Royal Star & Garter continue providing its award-winning person-centred care from its three Homes. To order your Brew for Two tea pack, or for more information, go to https://starandgarter.org/brew-for-two/
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How To Trust Care Providers When Supporting A Relative With Dementia Becomes Challenging By Christian Daraio Client Liaison Manager and Registered Nurse at Cramond Residence (www.cramondresidence.co.uk)
Watching a loved one struggle on their own in defiance of dementia can stir up feelings of pride in their stoicism as much as grief and sadness in the knowledge that their independence lies in your hands. There never really feels a ‘right’ time to take the decision to support a loved one to move into a care home, especially when trying to make sure you have correctly interpreted their desires and wishes. An added level of stress comes when searching for a suitable care service. With an abundance of information available, it can be challenging to identify a place which will deliver the best care to meet the needs of your loved one and a comfortable place for them to navigate a major change of life. Overcoming such emotions can be offset by reaching out to experts, in the knowledge that you are acting very much in their best interests
and hopefully ensuring they can retain their independent character for longer. Seeking professional support is also in the best interests those closest to the dementia sufferer – too often they try to shoulder the responsibilities for longer than they should and without fully appreciating the emotional and potential physical impact it has on them. When someone starts to show signs of dementia it is natural for family and friends to feel responsible to provide the necessary care without outside interventions. It is the natural human response to want to help. However, it often becomes clear that expert care provided by a multidisciplinary approach of healthcare professionals is required to provide the appropriate level of care the person needs. But with so many providers in the sector, it can be baffling to know where to start. Making sure that the health care provider explains in detail how they operate and the specific services they are able to provide should all be part of guiding you through what can be a difficult process. A good provider should be adaptable and willing to offer the scope and length of care that best suits you and your loved one ¬– from short pop-in sessions, to providing 24-hour care support and respite care. That in turn allows carers to cast their professional eye over the health and social care requirements of people they support, in order to create an individualised care plan which will be routinely monitored and re-evaluated. Promoting independence with the provision of care to individuals is key to ensuring confidence and self-esteem are maintained while living with dementia, boosting both physical and mental health while maintaining a sense of purpose and quality of life.
A clear starting point for any care provider is to have specially trained staff who have the skills to support people with dementia – and it is important to establish a trust with the staff taking on the responsibility of looking after your loved one. Once the move is complete stress levels will reduce and high levels of personal care and a range of therapeutic activities should allow those with dementia to relax in a safe and friendly atmosphere. The type of accommodation offered and facilities which are available is something that cannot be overstressed. All too often those living with dementia are placed in environments which are not suitable for providing the appropriate level of care. Following closely the latest research into dementia, Cramond Residence and its fully qualified staff, have identified how homely environments with neutral interiors is the best approach in offering calm and comfortable surroundings. And providing a range of classes and activities – from art therapy to exercise – provide interactions which promote mental and physical well-being. This approach is among the topics to be discussed at the “Let’s talk about ... Dementia” event at Cramond Residence on the June 18, 2022, between 12.30pm and 4pm, looking at common questions asked about the care of those living with the condition. Being patient, taking time, having direct conversations, knowing how to make sure individuals feel comfortable eating, enjoying each other’s company and making fresh memories are just some of things to be considered. Are you worried about dementia or caring for someone living • with the condition? Come and enjoy an afternoon in the garden at Cramond Residence on the 18 June and get all your questions answered. To register your interest, email: enquiries@cramondresidence.co.uk
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New Funding for Local Authorities to Prepare for Charging Reform More than £15 million will be given to local authorities across England to help them implement new social care charging reforms to bring an end to the unpredictable cost of care for the public. The introduction of charging reform, which will include a cap on the cost of care and a more generous means test, will result in an increase in demand for additional assessments and will require local authorities to upgrade IT systems to record and maintain care accounts. The £15.5 million will be shared by local authorities to hire additional staff, prepare their workforce, and recruit dedicated IT staff to oversee the implementation of the care accounts. This is the first portion of funding for local authorities, and further support will be made available later to strengthen capacity and to support implementation of technology that can support charging reform. An additional £2.9 million of funding will also be distributed across trailblazer local authorities to cover the costs of implementing charging reform early. The trailblazing authorities are areas that have been selected to ensure any insight, evidence and lessons learned from this initiative will be useful to providers and authorities to support the rollout in all parts of England. Social care staff worked incredibly hard during the pandemic and wider social care reforms will bolster staff numbers, enabling them to provide greater support in the community – keeping people out of hospitals and reducing pressure on the NHS. Wider social care reforms will better integrate the health and care systems, supporting earlier discharge from hospitals into the community and free up hospital beds to increase NHS capacity and tackle the COVID-19 backlogs. Minister for Care, Gillian Keegan, said: “Our charging reforms will mean no one will have to face unpredictable and often catastrophic care costs
and this new funding will help local authorities to implement these vital changes. We’re committed to fair and high-quality care, and this is the beginning of our journey of reform, creating the next step in making our ambitious plans a reality. We’re working closely with local authorities, providers and care receivers to deliver a smooth transition into the new system to end unpredictable cost of care for the public”. The Health and Social Care Levy will raise more than £5.4 billion for adult social care reforms which includes £3.6 billion to reform the way people pay for their social care charging reform to ensure the new system is fair and responsible, balancing government support and the need for people to be responsible for their future care needs. This is part of wider reforms backed by £39 billion to clear the COVID-19 backlogs and reform social care, helping people to access care when they need it in the community and reducing pressure on the NHS. Adult social care charging reform includes a new lifetime cap of £86,000 on the amount anyone in England will need to spend on their personal care, alongside a more generous means test for local authority financial support. The transformed social care charging system, which includes a significant increase in state support, will apply to people in both residential and at-home care. This will ensure adult social care is fair and accessible to all those who need it, and will protect people from unpredictable care costs. From October 2023 no one starting to receive care will pay more than £86,000 over their lifetime, and no one with assets of less than £20,000 will have to make any contribution from their savings or housing wealth – up from £14,250. Anyone with assets between £20,000 and £100,000 will be eligible for some means-tested support with the upper limit more than 4 times the current limit.
Sponsored Walk Raises Awareness About Alzheimer’s and Dementia The main aim was the raise awareness of Alzheimer’s, and dementia
Staff at Moorgate Hollow Care Home in Rotherham have helped raise awareness of dementia with a sponsored walk around a country park, while in fancy dress. Deputy manager Leighann Peace, carer Michelle Jackson and a resident’s granddaughter, Chelsea Brown, completed a five-mile course around Rother Valley Country Park. Their endeavours, which took place in warm but drizzly weather, raised a grand total of £450. Leighann and Michelle donned pink-coloured fancy dress as they, along with Chelsea, took about 1.5 hours, at a steady jogging pace, to get round the park, which covers three square kilometres and is close to Rotherham’s borders with Sheffield and Derbyshire.
more generally. Lyn Pilkington, manager at Moorgate Hollow, which is on Nightingale Close, said: “Activities like this show just how kind and caring staff at the home are. “We are very grateful to Chelsea for joining Leighann and Michelle for the walk, and increasing awareness of dementia. “It’s fantastic that their efforts have raised such a commendable amount, and we are very appreciative of everybody who sponsored
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THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 11
Better Collaboration Needed Across Health and Care, says NCF Head Speaking to healthcare leaders that the NHS Confederation Expo Professor Vic Rayner OBE CEO of the National Care Forum – the leading association for not for profit social care providers - called for greater collaboration across health and social care to improve out of hospital care and provide more support to people closer to home. Providing an overview of the ongoing challenges facing the health and social care sector, Rayner stressed the need for innovation in developing new community care models that can meet a changing society post Covid, to address the needs of groups of people who have been left out or excluded from the health and care agenda. Confed Expo brings together health and care leaders to spread learning, encourage innovation and foster networks to inspire change at all levels across the system. The two-day conference, which ended today at ACC, Liverpool, saw the NCF head urge health col-
leagues of the importance of having social care providers represented at Integrated Care Board level to ensure that new community care models have every chance of success on the ground and are effectively coordinated and joined up. “The social care reform paper has huge ambitions to enable integrated care and health for people. Yet there must be robust social care voices at the top table and opportunities for social care providers to share their wealth of knowledge and expertise at the heart of the health and care system”, said the NCF head. Rayner also called for more investment in the social care workforce and for the urgent need of a fully funded People Plan for social care that provides clear career progression, better recognition, terms and conditions and investment in training and development.
Signature at Beckenham Celebrates Carers Week with Week of Fun-Filled Activities
Signature at Beckenham celebrated Carers Week with an array of specially designed activities every day of for colleagues to enjoy. The week kicked off with colleagues being greeted with a work breakfast in the staff room which consisted of a hot and continental breakfast. Colleagues also had a chance to book a neck, shoulder or hand massage in the therapy room throughout the week, from Annie Abb from Refresh Me Massage and Shea Hollis from Neal’s Yard Remedies.
There was a special barbeque on Wednesday 8th June in the garden for both residents and colleagues to get together and bask in the warm summer weather over a selection of burgers, sausages, kebabs and fresh salads. Amazingly, a resident’s son-in-law offered his expertise and teach interested colleagues and residents about ‘the history of the cocktail’ and including tasting opportunities as a great chance to share knowledge. To conclude the week colleagues and residents at Signature at Beckenham had the joy of an ice cream van visiting, and were all treated with a wide range of flavours to choose from and a lighthearted game of Tombola Bingo for the colleagues as a nice treat to end Carer’s Week. As part of the raffle all colleague’s names were put into a hat and drawn at random, prizes included donations from the Bromley Rotary and from Winsford House Products, Neal’s Yard, Bromley FC and Bella Rose Lingerie.
The Carer is published by RBC Publishing Ltd, Suite 4, Roddis House, Old Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth, Dorset. Contributions are welcome for consideration, however, no responsibility will be accepted for loss or damage. Views expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or the editorial team. Whilst every care is taken when compiling this publication to ensure accuracy, the publisher will assume no responsibility for any effects, errors or omissions therefrom. All rights reserved, reproduction is forbidden unless written permission is obtained. All material is assumed copyright free unless otherwise advised.
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PAGE 12 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
The Future Challenges of the Care Industry - Complete The Survey Today! Simply complete the survey and fill in your details to be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a Miele Triflex Vacuum Clean at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ZL6QR73 The laundry room in any care home is a crucial part of the day-today operations. The job of handling both soiled and clean linen normally falls to the front-line care staff as very few establishments are big enough to have a dedicated laundry team or laundry manager. Because soiled linen is a breeding ground for infection, the way this is handled by the care team is crucial to infection prevention and control in the care home and helps to protect both residents and staff alike. As part of the mandatory training that is provided to all care staff on an annual basis, the handling of linen is described at length but in the everyday operation of a care home it can be difficult to ensure that the very highest of standards are being achieved. Space can be a limiting factor as many organisations have very small laundry facilities so being able to effectively separate clean and soiled laundry can be practically quite challenging. Time is also a major factor in the daily workings of the laundry room. Without a dedicated laundry team, front-line care staff are performing the duties of a laundry team as part of their daily tasks so being able to take the time and care over the specifics of the laundry operation is not always a priority. At Miele Professional we understand the challenges that care staff face when it comes to providing the very best in infection prevention and control in the laundry versus the reality of providing high standards of care for some of our most frail, elderly people. Our laundry equipment is designed to help take some of the guesswork out of infection
high enough to thermally disinfect the wash. Another benefit of the Miele Professional range is the connectivity. A new product due to be launched later this year by Miele will mean washing machines can be controlled by a smart phone resulting in no need to actually touch the display to select the desired programme and it can be programmed to 32 different languages, removing any issues with comprehension. They are also really quick too – reducing the turnaround time on laundry items whilst still providing the highest quality clean.
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Day at the Races for Resident at Norwich Care Home as Part of Seize the Day Initiative A resident at a Norwich based care home says his dream of watching live car racing came true thanks to the Seize the Day initiative set up at the home. Eric Silcox is a resident at MHA Cromwell House and expressed an interest in live car races when he was asked by the home what he would like to do as part of the Seize the Day initiative The Seize the Day initiative is run by charity Methodist Homes (MHA) which runs the home. It encourages residents to re-experience activities or events from the past or to do something they would like to do for the first time. Eric was accompanied by Angie Apurado, activity coordinator at the home together with his son, Tim, and daughterin-law, Anne and watched the Ferrari Challenge UK. Angie said: “Last year, Eric spoke to me about his interest
in cars. He also mentioned he wanted to be behind the wheels again. Or if not, he would like to watch a car race. “His interest in cars started at a young age and learnt how to drive a car when he was 17. “He says he learnt how to drive by watching his late Dad and the furthest he has driven was from Scotland to London. “Eric used to work as an RAF pilot and was a navigator for three years during World War 2. “According to him, all air crew had to learn how to fly planes just in case the main pilot got killed “The Ferrari challenge was great for him, he enjoyed glancing at different Ferrari cars, his favourite was the yellow Ferrari and really enjoyed taking pictures with the cars.”
Elderly Care Home Residents Get A Kick Out Of Visit From London Premiership Football Team A CQC outstanding care home based in Cassington has recently received a visit from premiership football team charity, the West Ham United Foundation. Residents and staff from Churchfields Care Home received a visit from members of the West Ham United Foundation; who were invited to provide a workout session and game of zimmer frame football for the elderly residents. In collaboration with the Askew Griffin Group, which provides sport and health educational programmes at a community level, the West Ham United Foundation spent the morning with the residents providing seated exercise classes and activities to promote movement and wellbeing. Warren Askew, Director of the Askew Griffin Group, said: “It was great to see the engagement and enjoyment from staff members and residents alike at Churchfields when we visited them. We know that engaging and providing varied activities make such a huge difference to a care home resident’s day. “Here at the Askew Griffin Group, we’re really pleased to be able to involve people of all ages and abilities in our community based-activities, especially care home residents where we can help tackle some of the key issues in society, such as social isolation and inactivity.” Warren’s team at the Askew Griffin Group and West Ham United Foundation are working on engaging with more care residents and delivering the training for their sessions around the country, so that more people and communities can benefit. Karen Woolford, Activities Coordinator at Churchfields Care Home, said: “Our residents love any interac-
tion with the outside world, it helps them with their minds and their bodies, keeps their spirits up, and helps with their daily life. The West Ham members were all so lovely with our residents too. It was a joy to watch. “We have a majority of female residents, and the ladies were very excited to have some young men in the building!” Karen’s role is centred around enriching the lives of her residents in the CQC Outstanding care home. Previously she has organised horse riding events, swimming sessions, and the moment the home has just hatched its own ducklings. Karen continued: “Our residents are really keen on their fitness, we do exercise classes and yoga, but to have someone come specifically for them, and talk about the likes of the England game - it makes a huge difference. It connects them with the outside world. “After two years of being quite isolated, it really is great that we can have events and activities like this. It makes my job a dream!” The fitness session included hand and arm exercises for dexterity, a mobility-friendly kickaround and lots of belly laughter. Robert Adams alongside business partner Renos Sideras, who has been working in care for more than 30 years, acquired Churchfields Care Home earlier this year. Robert said: “We are entirely committed to enriching and improving the lives of elderly care home residents, and know that exercise and engagement is a huge part of this. “We know that the lovely residents at Churchfields had a great afternoon of football, and fun, and all finished the day with smiles on their faces, and we can’t wish for any better than that.”
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 13
Government “Partially” Accepts MPs’ Recommendations on Response to Coronavirus Pandemic The Chairs of the Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee have welcomed a response from the Government into recommendations of the joint parliamentary inquiry into the handling of the coronavirus pandemic. In its response, published today, the Government accepts or partially accepts the majority of 38 recommendations made in the Report Coronavirus: lessons learned to date. The Report by the joint inquiry found that ‘decisions on lockdowns and social distancing during the early weeks of the pandemic and the advice that led to them ranked as one of the most important public health failures the United Kingdom has ever experienced’. The success of the vaccine programme, one of the most effective in Europe, demonstrated that positive as well as negative lessons should be taken from the handling of the pandemic. In a joint statement,Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP, Chair of the Health and Social Care Committee, and Rt Hon Greg Clark MP, Chair of the Science and Technology Committee,said: “We welcome the Government’s acceptance or partial acceptance of the majority of our 38 recommendations on lessons to learn from its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. “Groupthink hindered the Government’s response at the start of the pandemic. We are pleased that SAGE began regularly publishing its papers and minutes in a timely fashion following our request during the pandemic. It will be important to ensure transparency from the outset in any future emergency. The pandemic exposed underlying weaknesses in the social care sector. The Government has not met in full our call for additional social care funding nor addressed specific concerns around infection prevention.
We remain doubtful that Ministers have learned this lesson. It will now be vital for the Government to put its words of acceptance into actions to ensure that our scientific, health and care sectors are better prepared to meet any future threats. We will monitor the implementation of many recommendations.” The year-long inquiry considered the country’s preparedness for a pandemic; the use of non-pharmaceutical interventions such as border controls, social distancing and lockdowns to control the pandemic; the use of test, trace and isolate strategies; the impact of the pandemic on social care; the impact of the pandemic on specific communities; and the procurement and roll-out of covid-19 vaccines. The Government accepted all eight recommendations on its pandemic response involving ‘at risk communities’, including the provision of appropriate and useable PPE equipment to staff from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. However, it did not accept the Committees’ conclusion that staff did not have the same level of access to appropriate and useable personal protective equipment as their white colleagues during the pandemic. The Government however rejected the recommendation to set up a co-ordinating capability for the various strands of work being undertaken across Government to horizon scan for future threats on the basis that, in its view, such a capability already exists. It does note that it is “currently reviewing the way that it assesses risk” as part of its work to develop a Resilience Strategy. It also rejected two recommendations around the role of the Armed Forces.
Daredevil Pensioner in Fast Lane to Ticking Off Bucket List AN INSPIRING pensioner saddled up and led a sponsored motorbike ride around her hometown at the weekend, crossing a big item off her bucket list. 91-year-old Margaret Sneddon, a resident at Bield’s Crosshill Gardens development, fulfilled a lifelong dream of riding on the back of a motorcycle trike around Port Glasgow to raise money for a local charity. Margaret previously worked as a home help carer before retiring due to ill health but hasn’t let that slow her down. The sponsored event raised money for local charity, Children in Poverty Inverclyde, which aims to help children in the area whose families face daily challenges due to poverty, health, equality and participation. The charity has previously presented Margaret with an award in recognition of her continued support and dedication. Margaret said: “I wanted to support this charity by helping to raise funds for the amazing work they do and also tick something off my bucket list, so I thought why not combine the two?” “As a child, I would travel on a bus up and down the town’s Clune Brae. I always dreamt of how good it would feel to be doing this route on the back of a motorbike with the wind blowing in my hair.” “Children in Poverty Inverclyde is a brilliant charity, and I am very pleased to be able to support them
and raise a bit of money to help them do their work.” Margaret is a strong believer that your age shouldn’t hold you back from achieving your goals; she gained her black belt in Taekwondo at the age of 66. She added: “Take it from me, you’re never too old to tick things off your bucket list.” Myra Higgins, Development Manager at Bield’s Crosshill Gardens, said: “We are all just in awe of Margaret. Everyone at the development was cheering her on and it is amazing she is still crossing things off her bucket list at 91. “Not many people were surprised at her doing this challenge though as she is known for being a bit of a daredevil.” “I think it’s fantastic that, even as she is getting older, she is still thinking of ways she can help other people.”
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How Managers And Leaders In A Social Care Setting Can Improve Retention Through Meaningful Appreciation By Jarrod Kelly, Consultant and Trainer at Meaningful Care Matters (www.meaningfulcarematters.com) There is no doubt that a strong team comprises a mixture of solid leadership, communication, and access to good resources. However, what is key to workforce functionality is for each individual team member to feel supported, valued and heard. Therefore, it’s unsurprising that In the ‘Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace’, Dr Paul White found that 79% of employees who quit their job cite lack of appreciation as a key reason for leaving. Why is it, then, that so many managers and leaders fail to show meaningful appreciation to their teams? In my experience, the vast majority are trying to show appreciation in one way or another, but it is often completely ineffective. A failure to understand how to appreciate people well can be frustrating for the leader and soul-destroying for the team members. Due to the current care staffing crisis, social care leaders must encourage their teams through meaningful appreciation. Feeling appreciated will lead to care workers delivering exceptional levels of care, and can result in higher staff retention levels. To celebrate #GladtoCare Awareness Week, which pays homage to the incredible efforts of those working in care, I have compiled a list of handy tips to follow to ensure your appreciation hits the mark:
1. GET TO KNOW THE INDIVIDUAL Some people respond well to a small gift, but others just want to be told they’re doing an amazing job. Many individuals feel on top of the world when their boss sets aside a few minutes to have a coffee with them and show an interest in their life. This of course doesn’t apply to everyone, but an effective leader will
take the time to learn what makes their individual team members feel valued and supported.
2. MASS APPRECIATION HAS LIMITED EFFECT Saying ‘well done’ to your whole team is great, and we should do it, but it doesn’t acknowledge the individual achievements or contributions that have been made. In some cases, where there are one or two lazy team members, it can actually lead to resentment from their high-performing co-workers. Why should lazy employees be rewarded in the same way as hard-working ones? Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that a gesture of mass appreciation (like a staff Christmas party) will make the whole team feel valued.
3. THE LAW OF DIMINISHING RETURNS What works today will be less effective tomorrow. For example, if you give your team members a £100 gift card at the end of the year to say thank you, it’s likely to be well received the first year. If you do it again the next year, they’ll be appreciative but not as much as the year before. By the third year, they’re expecting that £100 gift card and it’s now considered an entitlement rather than a bonus. Make sure you mix things up so appreciation remains unpredictable and comes as an unexpected surprise, rather than a scheduled entitlement.
4. GIVE APPRECIATION, NOT JUST RECOGNITION Recognition is given for a job well done. But what about appreciating someone for who they are, as opposed to what they do? This is much less common but so much more powerful. It might sound like this: “I appreciate the enthusiasm and life you bring to the team. We really value your energy, and the team would be poorer without you.” Comments such as these don’t just make people feel appreciated — they buy loyalty (and retention!) like you wouldn’t believe. Ultimately, to combat the pervading healthcare staffing crisis in the UK, it is paramount that we celebrate, value and appreciate our incredible care workers not only on #GladtoCare Awareness Week, but all year round.
Jill Whittaker, Managing Director of HIT Training Ltd, Awarded OBE in The Queen’s Birthday Honours Jill Whittaker, Managing Director of HIT Training, Connect2Care, and the Executive Development Network has been awarded an OBE in The Queen’s Birthday Honours list, announced on Thursday 2nd June. The honour has been bestowed on Jill following her outstanding services to apprenticeships in hospitality, care, and management. During her career, Jill has impressively helped around 100,000 employees complete their apprenticeships or gain the qualifications they’ve needed to embark on long and fulfilling careers across a wide range of sectors. She is well-known for her unwavering passion to drive the future of apprenticeships and works tirelessly to improve the experience of working in industries such as hospitality, adult care, management, early years education and funeral care. Her passion transcends into exceptional charitable work, working closely with charities such as Hospitality Action, The Springboard Charity, Only A Pavement Away, and The Clink Charity. Furthermore, her well-regarded opinion also sees her representing education across industries, including providing evidence for the likes of the House of Commons Select Committees on Education, Health, and Social Care
and All-Party Parliamentary Groups for both Apprentices and Tourism, Leisure, and Hospitality. As a Fellow for a variety of leading organisations such as the Institute of Hospitality, the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA), and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), she volunteers to mentor others and shares her understanding of the markets to fight for greater development opportunities to strengthen the future of these industries. On being recognised in The Queen’s Birthday Honours list 2022 Jill said: “I am hugely grateful to have been chosen for this prestigious honour. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside a vast number of talented individuals and industry bodies during my career and I’m extremely proud of the positive change we’ve achieved in that time. “I look forward to continuing my work and collaborating with colleagues as well as charitable partners and organisations that I hold close to my heart, to continue supporting the future leaders of the industry, and enabling workers to be the best they can be.”
Continence Care Roadshow 2022 (Monday 20th June – Friday 24th June) This year to support World Continence Week, Blueleaf has partnered with Ontex to create the Continence Care Roadshow – which will take us across the UK in our very own ice cream van. World Continence Week is a health campaign run every year by WFIPP (World Federation of Incontinence and Pelvic Problems) to raise awareness of continence related issues, and this year, the awareness campaign is running from Monday 20th June – Sunday 26th June. In an NHS England report titled ‘Excellence in Continence Care’ published in 2018, it was estimated that more than 50% of care home residents have urinary incontinence. With such a high number of residents living with a requirement for continence care, it is essential that care homes are aware of the best solutions available to help maintain dignity and independence where possible. That is why, in line with World Continence Week, Blueleaf have teamed up with Ontex to embark on a five-day roadshow, touring the UK to visit a variety of care homes in our very own ice cream van. Dedicated to the sector since 1987, Blueleaf help care homes deliver better operational outcomes by connecting janitorial and medical products, equipment, furniture and design with best-practice knowledge, insight, training and procedures. Driving across the UK, we will be visiting various care homes, to not only serve staff and residents the perfect treat for a summer’s day, but also share our combined deep sector expertise and boost awareness of all the key solutions that help to support continence care.
Joining the roadshow will be an Ontex Nurse Advisor, who together with the Blueleaf team, will be on hand to discuss the other ways we can support care homes, with education and training for staff, as well as offering advice on how continence care and any associated costs can be effectively managed in every care home. There are many different solutions available that have been designed to make continence care as comfortable as possible for the resident, and as functional as possible for care home employees. But as we all know, every resident is unique and this means that more often than not, they will not all require the same continence care solution. Navigating the vast range of continence care products can be confusing, which is why on our roadshow, we will be talking about all the different products that are available and the situations for which they are most appropriate. Choosing the right products for your residents is not only essential for making sure that your customers are happy and comfortable, but the right product can help you to work smarter and be more efficient – which we know is crucial when time is so valuable. At the same time, Ontex has announced it is launching Orizon – a new, cutting edge incontinence care solution for improved management in care homes, which will fully launch in October 2022 following a trial in a number of care homes. Keep your eyes peeled for more information. If you see us on road, take a photo (if safe to do so) and tag us on LinkedIn – @Blueleaf and @Ontex – for your chance to win a £100 Love2Shop voucher!
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 15
Ensuring We Have Enough Staff is Imperative for Tackling Care Backlog, says BMA Responding to a speech by Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid at NHS ConfedExpo Dr David Wrigley, BMA council deputy chair, said: “The Secretary of State is right to recognise the immense efforts of health and care workers over the last two years, while noting that now is a critical time for the future of the NHS and care system. “Waiting lists are at record highs and he himself admits that they are likely to rise, meaning more people suffering in pain and anguish, while staff face no let-up in increased demand and workload. While collaboration, leadership and innovation as discussed in the Secretary of State’s speech are all important, ensuring we have the staff to take on this mammoth task of tackling the care backlog is absolutely imperative. “The Secretary of State acknowledged that workforce is the biggest challenge in reducing delays, yet the details on how the Government plans to recruit and retain enough staff to meet demand remained notably thin. He talked of the absurdity of a multinational company without access to workforce planning, but this is precisely where the NHS is right now. “The Government had a golden opportunity to put this right by listening to calls from the BMA and more than 100 expert organisations to include the need for independent, long-term workforce projections and assessments in the Health and Care Act, which it roundly rejected. Today, the Secretary of State once again referred to a forthcoming NHS Workforce Strategy with very little details or commitments. It’s critical that this strategy includes the long-term plans of how many staff we need to train and keep to meet the demand that we have called for, and that the strategy is published in full. We need political accountability and to enable leaders to plan ahead. “Doctors and their colleagues are exhausted, demoralised and overstretched as there simply aren’t enough of them. The NHS is suffering from a growing capacity gap. Both the Secretary of State and the chief executive of NHSEI, while recognising general practice as the ‘bedrock of the NHS’ and ‘front door to health and care’, say that the current model ‘isn’t working’, but is this any surprise given that England has lost the equivalent of more than 1,600 full-time GPs since 2015? All while there are
almost 5 million more patients to see and treat. We look forward to shaping the Secretary of State’s plans for change, but the Government should not seek to reinvent the wheel while failing to tackle the obvious by ensuring we keep as many skilled clinicians caring for patients as possible. “Alongside this general practice workforce gap, half of consultants say they want to reduce their clinical hours, while a quarter say they plan on retiring earlier than they’d previously considered. “Meanwhile the challenge does not stop at the NHS. The Secretary of State refers to the Government’s plans for social care, but as the BMA warned mere days ago, the country is facing an unprecedented crisis in the sector. Years of chronic underfunding, severe staffing issues, and a fragmented health and care system mean we cannot adequately meet the growing needs of the population and the government’s proposals fall significantly short of what is needed. “The Secretary of State rightfully underlined the devastating impact toxic bullying and blame cultures in the health service have on retention, staff wellbeing and patient care, and we are grateful to him for referencing the damning findings of the BMA’s racism report out today and welcome his commitment to tackling this. The time for talk is over and the systemic failure identified by the report needs every health organisation and Government to work together in order to bring an end to structural racism. “The Government also needs to take other steps – such as significantly improving pay and conditions, scrapping punitive pension rules that force senior doctors to reduce their hours or retire early, and removing bureaucratic barriers for overseas staff wanting to contribute to the NHS. In many cases this will require more resourcing, and it is short-sighted for the Secretary of State to dismiss further increases to NHS funding. “He said the Government is doing ‘everything possible’ to reduce delays and ensure people can access the care they need, but it’s clear there is so much more that could be done. “Crucially, the promise of a workforce strategy is not enough, the difference it makes to staff and patient care will rely on its contents and the actions that follow.”
An Introduction from MSD Independent I would like to introduce myself . My name is Mark Durbidge and I have been in the Distance Learning environment for the past 12 years and have built this business to where we are today. I started originally with a market leading Company and moved on to starting my own business finding and enrolling people onto the courses. Our job is to introduce people to our Free Courses for Care home and care agency staff including Free Dementia, End of Life, Medication and Falls Prevention courses plus many more . We have enrolled over the years many people , and they have benefited in accomplishing a level 2 NCFE Cache certificate in one or more of our courses. As with everyone else it took a downturn during the pandemic as we were unable to visit Care Homes or Agencies , so we started doing telephone and online enrolments. This proved very successful and we are continuing this service and now offering the original visits and group enrolments. We had a new website built during this time which has also been a great success as it contains detailed information regarding the courses we have available from Mental Health, Mental Health First
Aid, Autism, Dementia, Medication, Business Administration. Also our partner Colleges around the country supply experienced , qualified tutors to help where necessary students who may struggle a little. This is a great asset to people. Once people are enrolled we always send out a hard copy of their chosen course and they have the option of writing out the assessment or electronically submitting to the relevant College. The courses have been developed to a very high and informative standard and are highly recommended by Care Homes and Colleges alike.. These courses are free to people providing they complete them . Colleges do ask for a small admin fee from those who register and do not complete the course. Please contact me direct if you wish to have more information . I can be contacted on my mobile number 07943 743748 or email me direct on mark@msdindependent.co.uk. Alternatively our web site is www.msdindependent.com
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PAGE 16 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
Staff-Short Care Firms Have No Time For Training Connect2Care’s latest research shows how misconceptions around apprenticeships could be impacting their potential to fix industry-wide staff retention problems Following the ‘Great Resignation’ of 2021 – when employees around the UK left their jobs in record numbers – a new survey has revealed that 100% of care managers continue to find it hard to retain staff. Yet while almost 90% believe that further training investment would help with recruitment and retention, less than 40% of care businesses offer apprenticeships to staff at all levels. Over a third have been deterred from offering training opportunities for new and existing employees due to the time investment needed. A further 37.5% of care managers are put off by the risk that an employee would leave after completing their training, even though more than 90% of people working in the sector have said they would be more likely to stay in a role if their employer invested in their training from the outset. Commenting on the research, Jill Whittaker, Managing Director at Connect2Care, said: “Since the pandemic began, staff shortages have been rife across a wide range of sectors, culminating in the ‘Great Resignation’ of 2021. And the care sector is among the hardest hit. “Yet while most care operators see the value in training when it comes to attracting and retaining staff, too many believe they don’t have the time to invest in this. But with the sector continuing to strug-
unlock skills quickly and fast-track staff into positions where they can make a real impact. New flexible training models under consideration by the Government are set to make this process even quicker. For example, front-loaded training will be invaluable in helping apprentices to hit the ground running and operate efficiently for their employers from the very beginning.” The study showed that most care operators are interested in flexible training options, with 75% of employers in the sector saying they would consider front-loaded training to help speed-up the process. Over 90% of employees in the field would be more willing to start an apprenticeship or training course if they could condense learning into a shorter period. Connect2Care has released a toolkit answering common questions about apprenticeships, with advice on how businesses can maximise them through flexible training options. gle with staff shortages, they can’t afford not to. “As well as playing a role in attracting and retaining valuable team members, apprenticeships have always been one of the best ways to
Find out which apprenticeship pathway will work best for your business with Connect2Care’s See the Opportunity toolkit, which can be downloaded for free. Visit https://connect2care.net/resources/see-the-opportunity/
Abbot Care Home Receive a Special Message from Novelist, Richard Osman The people living and working at Abbot Care Home in Harlow were overjoyed to receive a video message from none other than Novelist Richard Osman, wishing
everyone at Abbot Care Home, thanking them for choosing his novel. In his video message, the author addressed the home directly, saying “Hello everybody at Abbot Care Home, I hear you’re reading Thursday Murder Club for your first
them luck with their new book club! The care home recently reopened their library, which had been closed since the
book group (…) I really appreciate it, reading is so important. I’m so delighted your
start of the pandemic. Two of the people living at the home were thrilled to get
library has reopened and I’m very very proud that you’ve chosen The Thursday
involved, and enjoyed working with <image006.jpg>the team to redesign the space,
Murder Club as your first book.”
choosing the best spots for the bookshelves and ordering some of their favourite
The team at the home were shocked and delighted to receive such a kind message from Osman. Many of the team members are big Richard Osman fans and have
books! With the library back in action and looking better than ever, the team were excited to launch a brand-new book club. Their first book of choice was ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ by Richard Osman, on the recommendation of some of their colleagues.
loved reading his book. So, to hear that Richard knows about their club made it feel extra special! The video was shown to everyone in the book club and was met with great excite-
Everyone participating was given the option of a paperback copy, Kindle version, or
ment. They all agreed that it was so lovely of Richard to go out of his way and record
audiobook, to ensure that the book club was as accessible as possible.
a video for them.
Osman, the author of the club’s first pick, caught wind of the home’s brand-new
Excelcare would like to extend a big thank you to Osman and his team for putting
book club. He was honoured to have his work chosen as their first book after the
the video together. It truly touched the hearts of everyone at Abbot Care Home, and
library’s grand reopening! As a result, he took some time to send a video message to
after all their hard work, added some much deserved magic to the opening!
Armed Forces Day: First Impressions Count for Royal Star & Garter Home Manager
Qualified Nurse Jamie Stubbs worked for the NHS before joining the RAF in December 1995. During his 19-year military career, he attained the rank of Flight Lieutenant Nurse. Now he is the Home Manager at Royal Star & Garter in Solihull. To mark Armed Forces Day, he reflects on finding his dream job at the veterans’ care home. I remember walking into the Home for the first time on Christmas Eve, following my appointment as the Interim Home Manager. It was a real opportunity to just feel and see the service I’d heard so much about. It was critical for me that it went well, but I’m always nervous when I’m about to meet a new team on unfamiliar territory. As I approached the reception door with an outstretched finger to press the buzzer, it miraculously opened! Stood there with the warmest welcome was Kevin, who is our Driver and part of the Wellbeing Team. Unknown to me, the Home had received my biography prior to arrival. Kevin appeared to have memorised the whole document because instantly he knew all about me and my past! This led to very easy conversation and instantly settled my nerves. Kevin took me into reception where I was warmly greeted by Sam, the receptionist. Sam explained that she would let Lead Nurse Heni know I’d arrived, which allowed me to have several minutes to soak up the energy of the Home. I was simply delighted to hear staff laughing and talking with each other as they passed through. There was all the hustle and bustle of getting ready
for Christmas Day. The immense Christmas tree was up in the foyer, there was chatter, there was a buzz in the Home. As I sat there, the military paintings on the wall took me and my thoughts away to familiar places and spaces. I served in the RAF for 19 years, and the paintings made me feel comfortable, almost like I had visited before. Heni then came to greet me. It’s hard to read people’s faces when they have masks on, but I could tell from her eyes that she was smiling, and her introduction was real, warm and genuine. We went to the Lead Nurses’ office and the conversation was easy, free-flowing and it became clear that we both held very similar views on what personcentred care should look like. She spoke with passion about the Home, the residents, the team and the charity. It was infectious - I had felt this energy from the minute I walked into the Home. Heni told me that two other Lead Nurses - Yuriy and Nadine - were coming in on their days off to say ‘Hi’ and introduce themselves! This hadn’t happened to me before, I am acutely aware of how hard people work in this sector, and days off are precious. The reception I received from them was warm, welcoming and from the heart. It was clear their passion and drive matched mine. I felt all my Christmases had come at once! How could I be sat in a room with three people who all wanted to achieve what I did and more? I had never experienced this in adult social care before. One thing that I will never forget from that meeting was when they said to me: “Tell us about you, not the manager you, the real you.” They wanted to know what kind of human I was. That told me all I needed to know about this band of three. The person inside is everything to them and that’s how it should be. My tour of the Home with the three Lead Nurses was a wonderful experience. Each floor was buzzing with laughter, smiling residents, activities and such a positive feeling. Every member of staff I came into contact with wanted to talk to me, they were genuinely interested in me and what I had done previously. They spoke about their work with compassion and conviction. They spoke about going the extra mile. They described residents being at the centre of their care and all that they did. They wanted residents to live their best lives in a safe and secure environment. They involved the residents in their care and decisions related to it. I was in a spin! I had never been surrounded by such
positivity in this setting before. What was intended to be a quick 45minute ‘dip-my-toe-in-the-water’ visit turned into a fourhour afternoon visit. Three months into my interim contract I was appointed as the permanent Home Manager, and I couldn’t be happier – this really is my dream job. Working here made such an impression on me from day one that I never wanted to leave. I became a nurse because I care about people and I wanted to make a difference. I’m doing that now. I’m in the company of people that have similar military experiences, and it’s an honour to look after them. And I think the residents appreciate the bond we share too. We have conversations about military life and what we’ve been up to, we speak about the bits and pieces we have done. I have learned so much in that time! I have visited the other Homes and met all of the teams. Royal Star & Garter appears to be a magnet for attracting only the best, most caring staff across all disciplines. All of the Homes have felt familiar even though the geography is different. The energy of the staff is like nectar. It’s addictive and you can’t get enough of surrounding yourself with it. It is the magical and mysterious glue that pulls us all together and makes us all want to perform at our very best. The first six months have been a thrilling and joyous experience: to be in the company of people who are always striving to do what’s best for our residents, it’s a joy to be working with a team that’s so committed. It makes me feel proud, and there is nowhere else that I would rather be. Royal Star & Garter is the place for me, it makes sense to be here.
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 17
Single Brain Scan Can Diagnose Alzheimer’s Disease A single MRI scan of the brain could be enough to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research by Imperial College London. The research uses machine learning technology to look at structural features within the brain, including in regions not previously associated with Alzheimer’s. The advantage of the technique is its simplicity and the fact that it can identify the disease at an early stage when it can be very difficult to diagnose. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, getting a diagnosis quickly at an early stage helps patients. It allows them to access help and support, get treatment to manage their symptoms and plan for the future. Being able to accurately identify patients at an early stage of the disease will also help researchers to understand the brain changes that trigger the disease, and support development and trials of new treatments. The research is published in the Nature Portfolio Journal, Communications Medicine, and funded through the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Imperial Biomedical Research Centre. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting over half a million people in the UK. Although most people with Alzheimer’s disease develop it after the age of 65, people under this age can develop it too. The most frequent symptoms of dementia are memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem solving and language. Doctors currently use a raft of tests to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, including memory and cognitive tests and brain scans. The scans are used to check for protein deposits in the brain and shrinkage of the hippocampus, the area of the brain linked to memory. All of these tests can take several weeks, both to arrange and to process. The new approach requires just one of these – a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan taken on a standard 1.5 Tesla machine, which is commonly found in most hospitals. The researchers adapted an algorithm developed for use in classifying cancer tumours, and applied it to the brain. They divided the brain into 115 regions and allocated 660 different features, such as size, shape and texture, to assess each region. They then trained the algorithm to identify where changes to these features could accurately predict the existence of Alzheimer’s disease. Using data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, the team tested their approach on brain
scans from over 400 patients with early and later stage Alzheimer’s, healthy controls and patients with other neurological conditions, including frontotemporal dementia and Parkinson’s disease. They also tested it with data from over 80 patients undergoing diagnostic tests for Alzheimer’s at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. They found that in 98 per cent of cases, the MRI-based machine learning system alone could accurately predict whether the patient had Alzheimer’s disease or not. It was also able to distinguish between early and late-stage Alzheimer’s with fairly high accuracy, in 79 per cent of patients. Professor Eric Aboagye, from Imperial’s Department of Surgery and Cancer, who led the research, said: “Currently no other simple and widely available methods can predict Alzheimer’s disease with this level of accuracy, so our research is an important step forward. Many patients who present with Alzheimer’s at memory clinics do also have other neurological conditions, but even within this group our system could pick out those patients who had Alzheimer’s from those who did not. “Waiting for a diagnosis can be a horrible experience for patients and their families. If we could cut down the amount of time they have to wait, make diagnosis a simpler process, and reduce some of the uncertainty, that would help a great deal. Our new approach could also identify early-stage patients for clinical trials of new drug treatments or lifestyle changes, which is currently very hard to do.” The new syste spotted changes in areas of the brain not previously associated with Alzheimer’s disease, including the cerebellum (the part of the brain that coordinates and regulates physical activity) and the ventral diencephalon (linked to the senses, sight and hearing). This opens up potential new avenues for research into these areas and their links to Alzheimer’s disease. Dr Paresh Malhotra, who is a consultant neurologist at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust and a researcher in Imperial’s Department of Brain Sciences, said: “Although neuroradiologists already interpret MRI scans to help diagnose Alzheimer’s, there are likely to be features of the scans that aren’t visible, even to specialists. Using an algorithm able to select texture and subtle structural features in the brain that are affected by Alzheimer’s could really enhance the information we can gain from standard imaging techniques.”
Bournemouth Care Home Resident Celebrates 102nd Birthday A resident at RMBI Care Co. Home Zetland Court, in Bournemouth, has recently celebrated her 102nd birthday. Joycelyn Mills enjoyed a celebration complete with tea and cake at the care home with her family. She spent the afternoon with her two daughters, Jocelyn and Ann, who were delighted to share this special day with their mum, as well as with her sons-in-law, granddaughters and great-grandchildren. A singer joined Joy and her family and played two songs with his guitar for her: ‘My Mammy’, an American popular song released around the time Joy was born, and, of course, ‘Happy Birthday.’
Joycelyn was born in Barry, South Wales, on 15 June 1920. She ran a small business with her husband and were part of the community, but in 1982 they moved to Bournemouth to be closer to family. She says: “I’ve had a very happy life, especially these last years, looking after grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.” When asked about her secret for a long life, she simply said: “Hard work!” However, her advice for younger generations is to enjoy life as much as possible. Karen Casey, Activities Coordinator at Zetland Court, said: “Joy lives up to her name, always smiling and happy to see people! She has a great sense of humour and loves to have some playful banter with the staff.”
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PAGE 18 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
Two Thirds of UK Care Home Staff Admit Resident Quality of Care and Nutritional Needs are Being Overlooked Due to Outdated Procedures
A new, independent survey commissioned by eProcurement technology firm Zupa, has raised several concerns from care home professionals across the UK, with 86% admitting that vital aspects of care provision are suffering at the hands of outdated and time-consuming procedures, with many staff struggling to fulfil their day to day roles. The new data also highlights several care management challenges that need to be addressed to improve staff retention, morale and the overall quality of residential care. The study, which polled hundreds of care home professionals across the country, found that two thirds of care home staff (66%), admitted the quality of resident care and the ability to cater properly for dietary and nutritional needs, are some of the key areas being side-lined as a result of obsolete practices. The study also revealed that more than half (54%) of care home workers felt staff happiness was overlooked, and 44% of workers attribute the high turnover of staff in the care industry to low levels of pay. Specifically, 40% of care home workers felt they couldn’t provide the quality of care that they would like to due to the time they spend on admin. Over half (52%) of respondents, agreed that care home inspections simply add further pressure to their role, and would welcome a way to improve this process. More than a third of care home managers (32%) also said that keeping up with time intensive processes like day to day menu planning, allergens management, and recording resident data around nutrition and hydration, worries them. A further 41% were understandably concerned about the rising costs of food, energy and inflation, while 30% of care home workers identified supplier issues, food shortages and running out of supplies as a growing concern. Importantly, 63% of care home managers link much of their day to day concerns to the wear and tear stresses placed upon their teams.
Lack of staffing and resource also continues to be a worry for the sector, with 67% of care workers citing this as a key challenge. Only 6% of care home professionals said there is nothing that worries them in the day to day running of their care home. Lack of time available to improve day to day quality of care is a clear issue. When asked what aspects of their working day they would spend more time on if they could reduce the amount of paperwork, more than half (56%) of care workers say they would like to improve the standard of resident care if they had more time in their day. Likewise, almost half (49%) of care professionals said they would improve staff satisfaction, suggesting that reducing admin would free up more time to focus on staff morale and happiness. A further 49% would like extra time in their day to be more creative with resident social events and 42% of care home professionals said they would be keen to spend more time on individual care planning. Ollie Brand, CEO at Zupa explained: “Caring for the vulnerable and elderly is time-consuming and demanding. It requires specialist skills and knowledge. This study highlights that care home staff are having to deal with multiple challenges with little resource, and only so many hours in the day. There is also a direct correlation between what worries care home staff day to day and the quality of care they are physically able to deliver. Patchy reporting, outdated processes and a heavily reliance on manual updates, simply adds to the frustration and puts greater pressure on already stretched staff.” This latest research highlights a clear relationship between what aspects of care are being overlooked and what staff would prioritise if they had more time in their day. Almost three quarters (73%), of care home professionals who said they would improve staff satisfaction if they had more time, also said staff happiness is side lined. A further 55% of those who would like to improve the quality of resident care with more time, also said care quality is overlooked due to time wasted on outdated processes. Brand added, “Lack of staffing and resource is still a key concern for care homes. It’s clear that in many cases, that the adoption of automated, fit for purpose technology could help alleviate many of these day to day pressures and interestingly, those care professionals who said they would implement new technology if they had more time, are most likely to say that staff happiness, productivity of staff and quality of care are being side-lined.”
On Tuesday 28th June at 2pm, Zupa will be delving into the outcomes of this brand new study in an invite-only webinar and asking ‘Can technology help create smarter ways of working?’. CEO Ollie Brand will be joined by Mark McCarthy, former Group Director of Sanctuary Care and now Zupa CFO, to discuss how care homes can effectively use technology to enable their teams to spend more time on the things that matter most. Register today www.zupa.com/webinar/ to gain valuable insight from like-minded care experts and discover new ways of freeing up time and resource.
Gwynedd Council Pays £44,500 Care Home Fee Arrears After High Court Bailiff Threat A Gwynedd care home boss who took a council to court over unpaid fee arrears has accused the authority of blocking families from accessing specialist dementia care. Kevin Edwards, owner of Meddyg Care Dementia Homes, issued a High Court writ against Gwynedd Council after it ignored a judgement made by Northampton Small Claims Court in April ordering it to repay £44,529 in fee arrears at its 40-bed Criccieth home. The council has paid the outstanding debt after being told that High Court Enforcement Officers had the power to its seize assets. But Mr Edwards claims the authority is now refusing to send any more residents there – except in an emergency – in favour of cheaper domiciliary care or care homes outside of the county that do not offer the same level of high-dependency support. The situation was ‘absurd’ and he said it was in stark contrast to the position of other authorities outside of Gwynedd including Anglesey that are regularly placing individuals who require at the home and taking full advantage of the specialist care it provides. He also accused Gwynedd Council of turning its back on local people and said it was failing in its responsibility to cater for their complex needs. “In a nutshell, Gwynedd don’t want to pay for specialist dementia services. We are finding people being left in their houses to struggle at home where there’s a lack of domiciliary care,” he said. “The council are telling families sorry we do not commission services from Meddyg Care, you have to go further afield but there’s a completely different perspective from other councils who accept that to access specialist dementia services they have to travel. “Anglesey, for example, have placed 10 people over the last three weeks – they have no problem at all. Here, people are being sent out of area where Gwynedd Council can secure a cheaper deal. “Gwynedd Council are depriving people of access to specialist dementia care services. We’ve had funding for one or two places because it’s been an emergency and it’s end of life care, at that stage there’s no quality of life left for them. Basically, they’re leaving it as late as possible before admitting them. “It’s a long journey from when you are first diagnosed with dementia and despite the difficult circumstances, that journey should as enjoyable as possible. Gwynedd Council are not providing that support to facilitate that to the good people of the county. That’s
extremely upsetting.” Meddyg Care, which also owns a 44-bed home in Porthmadog, said it was left no choice but to launch legal proceedings in February this year after Gwynedd Council’s fees fell well short of the sum needed to provide adequate care for its clients and remunerate staff – forcing it to operate at a loss. Social care champions Care Forum Wales (CFW) said the case was the first of its kind in Wales and demonstrated a gross and unlawful abuse of the council’s responsibilities to frail and vulnerable people in its communities. The Council has now paid the outstanding bill but CFW said it was a small and meaningless victory for the people of Gwynedd who are still being denied the right to the high-level dementia care they need. Mary Wimbury, the chief executive of CFW, said: “This is an appalling state of affairs with the biggest losers being the frail and most vulnerable people in our community. “It seems bizarre that those living in Gwynedd cannot benefit from the specialist care being provided on their very own doorstep. “By denying local people spaces until it’s too late, Gwynedd is basically stripping them of their rights and adding to the ongoing heartache and suffering of the patient and their loved ones. “We have already highlighted that councils are ignoring their legal
obligations to take into account the legitimate current and future costs faced by providers and this is just another example of an authority falling short of the public’s and sector’s expectations. “Fortunately, Meddyg Care is not reliant on the council for admissions and has plenty of support elsewhere by councils who have the sense and compassion to recognise good services when it is offered to them.” Mr Edwards said they were still in negotiation with Gwynedd Council but were frustrated by the lack of understanding being given to their unique position. “I’ve said before we cannot operate this kind of service on the fees they want to pay,” he said. “The long and short of it is our services cost more. Other councils can afford it and recognise this type of service does have value. “Gwynedd is failing to recognise our location and how much harder it is for us to secure staff. “They don’t want to recognise these challenges and are taking a one size all approach. That’s the frustration. Gwynedd is failing to recognise our location and how much harder it is for us to secure staff on the Llŷn Peninsula even compared to Caernarfon. That’s the frustration. “If they reached out to us to said let’s understand your costs and why, we would say no problem, we’ll talk it through. “We’ve had a huge amount of support from our local community. They were shocked at how care homes are being treated. “We should not have to take this course of action to get the money we were owed to us.” Mr Edwards said the firm had signed up to the Real Living Wage Foundation last March to provide all its workers with the Real Living Wage of £9.90 per hour, going beyond the Welsh Government’s commitment. This added a five per cent increase to its fees but was vital for future sustainability. “We offer specially trained staff that are recognised with Care Inspectorate Wales and are actively developing their careers in specialist dementia care,” he said. “These are people with specialist skills who we need to harness in our local area otherwise they will go to other areas where they’re more appreciated.”
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 19
National Care Hero Award for Sheffield Carer Elena Brookes, senior carer at Loxley Court Care Home in Sheffield has won a national social care hero award in recognition of their hard work. The award has been made this week by Support Social Care Heroes (SSCH), an organisation which aims to preserve, protect and improve the health and wellbeing of those providing social care. SSCH launched the monthly award programme this year to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the 1.54m people working in social care in the UK. Elena, who was nominated for May 2022, is the 5th award winner. Elena was nominated by Sharon Radford, the home manager, who said: “She is a determined young lady who goes above and beyond to ensure that the ladies she supports receive the best possible service. A true superhero. She is a very valuable member of the Towerview family” On hearing they had won the award Elena said: “It's a lovely surprise, great to be recognised, both personally and as part of the team. Thank you so much.” Elena will receive a £50 voucher for the grocery store of their choice, a box of chocolates, certificate, a SSCH hoody and Loxley Court Care Home will receive a bunch of flowers. The prizes have been sponsored by VAT Solutions. The social care workforce is often overlooked yet they keep the most vulnerable people in our society safe and well. It is hoped that SSCH will receive significant support following research which found that the overwhelming majority of the public feel that social care staff are undervalued (81%) and underpaid (80%). The monthly care hero awards have been created to show that care workers are appreciated. Nicola Richards, Founder of Support Social Care Heroes, explained the thinking behind the idea:
“Social care staff often do not get the recognition that they deserve despite being valued by their managers and employers. “Many care homes already have ‘employee of the month’ schemes and we really felt we should do something to bring all these nominations together from around the country to celebrate all our social care heroes and the amazing work they do. “The pandemic has brought social care colleagues across the country together as we have supported each other like never before. I hope these awards will provide a positive boost to carers, managers and the wider care home teams. “These awards are the first step in our long-term plans to ensure those who need care, and those caring for them, are valued by all in society. “Our country’s social care heroes have been on the front line and in the headlines for almost two years and this new initiative will help show them that they are valued and recognise the work they do.” Social care employers are encouraged to nominate their staff for a care home hero award (employee of the month). Taking part has been made simple and easy: post a photo of your employee of the month and which care home you represent, to social media, with the hashtag #SocialCareHeroAwards and tag Support Social Care Heroes page. Tell us in 160 characters why the person is a social care hero. All nominations will be curated by the Support Social Care Heroes team and on the last Monday of each month a winner will be chosen at random. Anyone who wishes to donate to Support Social Care Heroes can do so by visiting: www.ssch.info
Staff Wellbeing Takes Centre Stage for The Grange at Bookham It is no surprise that after two years of coping with a pandemic, mental health has taken a battering in the care sector. However, coming out of the pandemic has, for many care workers, been more stressful than working at the height of lockdown. They have had to deal with constantly changing rules and procedures; exceptional staff shortages; and a lack of restorative ‘down time’, with overseas holidays off the agenda for many. The Grange tracks mental health concerns through its annual staff survey. Whilst 87% of staff felt they had a good work-life balance in 2021, 38% said that they had concerns about their mental health over the previous year – up 10% on the previous year and 14% on 2019. There also seemed to be some uncertainty about the support provided for mental wellbeing. Whilst staff described their work as ‘worthwhile’, ‘varied’ and ‘rewarding’, management and Trustees felt there was more to be done. And statistics published by Sona’s Rethinking Retention report earlier this year suggested that 90% of staff were looking for more mental health support from their employers. So The Grange has introduced a series of measures to support staff. These include one-to-one counselling provided on site by another Surrey-based charity called the Mary Frances Trust, and group training to boost resilience. These measures complement web-based services and a 24 hour employee helpline, all of which are promoted through wallet-sized cards so that staff have easy access to the numbers and websites they might need. Staff have been given free use of the on-site therapy pool, and had access to the Community Fridge
which distributes free surplus food to anyone on our site on a Tuesday morning. The most popular initiative has been a Wellbeing Week, timed to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week in May. During the week, staff were presented with a range of free activities in which they could participate, including reiki, yoga, pilates, meditation, animal therapy, pottery, candlemaking, planting, hand massages and much more. People we support were invited to join in too, with a range of staffonly and integrated sessions to ensure that staff had a chance for ‘me’ time if they needed it. The week was perfectly timed to shed light on the mental health challenges of the last couple of years, and to ensure that colleagues felt able to speak out in a supportive environment if they were struggling. Feedback from staff has been really positive: “They listened.” “The energy at The Grange was electric.” “I feel so relaxed. Thank you for organising such wonderful wellbeing event.” “It’s been a pleasure to take part and feel so included.” Promoting and supporting employee wellbeing is a key objective for the Board of Trustees. We know that staff who feel well supported will provide the best services for the vulnerable adults whom they in turn support.
Bournemouth and Poole Care Homes Play Host to Symphony Orchestra Musicians
Photo Credit – Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Residents at Care South’s care homes throughout Bournemouth and Poole have enjoyed hosting musicians from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra to play live within the homes. Elizabeth House and Dorset House care homes in Poole and Queensmead at Castle Dene in Bournemouth, have enjoyed visits from members of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra this month, with residents at Elizabeth House to receive an extra visit on Friday 22nd July as residents enjoyed the performance so much. Residents enjoyed listening to the hour-long interactive performance which was designed specifically with the elderly residents in mind and featured a range of genres. Professional musicians from the
company led the performances and encouraged residents to get involved by singing, dancing and clapping along. They also opened the performance up for residents to request their favourite classics. For many residents, the impact of live music and creative performances such as these has a huge effect on them. Helping residents to reminisce, music is a powerful way to trigger positive feelings and connections with others, even if they are in the later stages of dementia. This fantastic initiative has been made possible by Tapper Funeral Services and Rawlins Davy Solicitors which have funded livestreamed and in-person visits from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra for 29 care homes throughout the area. Bea Hankey, Acting Head of BSO Participate, said: “The BSO exists to provide cultural opportunity to everyone in the area, both in and beyond the concert hall — and during the past two years we’ve been keen to return to residents in local care homes, who we know really benefit from live music-making. Having kept in touch during the pandemic with our innovative livestreamed concerts, we’re thrilled to finally return this spring and are grateful to Tapper Funeral Service and Rawlins Davy for their generous support for this valued part of the Orchestra’s work.” Chris Golding, Head of Marketing and PR from Care South, commented: “For many residents, attending concerts or performances is not possible so it has been a pleasure for us to be able to bring these to them.” Mark Kiteley, Director of Rawlins Davy Solicitors, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra to bring live music to Care South’s residents once again. We have witnessed, during our years of supporting the Orchestra, the power of music in changing people's lives, both staff and residents, and we are proud to be supporting the Orchestra’s in-person performances after
Photo Credit – Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
two years of live-streamed events.” Steven Tapper, Director of Tapper Funeral Service, added: “Since 2012, Tapper Funeral Service has been very proud to support Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s programme that takes live musical performance into residential and care homes in the local area. We recognised immediately the positive health benefits given by the provision of high calibre music – performed by BSO musicians – to those living in care settings. We pride ourselves on the high standard of our care to those who are grieving and living with loss, and we are delighted to continue our support of this impactful programme. As we enter into our 10th year of support, we celebrate all that we have achieved together, and the lives that have been – and continue to be – blessed by the music of the BSO.”
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EHRC Backs Calls For Care Worker Registration In England The Care Worker's Charity have responded regarding the recent report into the treatment of lowerpaid ethnic minority workers in health and social care by the Equality and Human Rights Commission: We welcome the long-awaited publication of the report into the treatment of lower-paid ethnic minority workers in health and social care by the Equality and Human Rights Commission, released last week (9 June) along with a detailed set of recommendations for UK Government. The poorer outcomes for ethnic minority workers detailed in the report are shocking, but unfortunately not surprising. The recommendation to register care workers in England is actionable and would align with policy in the devolved nations. We support this approach as it would not only support better workforce data, planning and professionalisation, leading to better outcomes for all care workers, but would recognise their valuable contribution to society. Registration would inevitably lead to improved understanding of employment rights and give care workers a voice, so that abuses of the kind detailed in this EHRC report are easier to monitor and address with commissioners and providers. We support calls for improved workforce data which is a particular problem in adult social care – without a People Plan or Staff Survey as in the NHS it is difficult to understand the scale of the problem. A solution around this data collection suitable for the care sector must be found as soon as possible. Additionally, formal pay data as it relates to care workers, whether commissioned-out or outsourced, would support workforce planning and highlight where services are being commissioned for an unfair price. We cannot allow workers to pay the price for unfair commissioning, especially when LAs and Central Government have been repeatedly told that funding levels are not sufficient. We welcome the recommendations relating to the new role of the CQC who will provide oversight of local authority duties under the Care Act. Treatment of care workers must be central in assurance frame-
works and impact on overall ratings, or else they may effectively sanction the poor outcomes for lower-paid ethnic minority workers detailed in the report. The role of the regulator in tackling inequality should be clear and well-defined, and government must commit to take action against providers and local authorities who continue to perform badly. The report highlights the need to understand the issues around ‘one-sided flexibility’ as regards zero hours contracts, but this must involve listening to care workers. It is imperative that workers are the focus of any consultation exercise – flexible arrangements can support those with additional care duties at home and there is unlikely to be a one size fits all solution. Care workers should be given a choice of minimum hours or zero-hours contracts. Insecure employment and unfair contracting is about more than minimum hours, and we would urge the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to consider how charities and trade unions can contribute to these enquiries and provide access to the experiences of frontline workers. The findings of this report are deeply troubling, and yet the challenge is not new to the sector. For too long poor practices in adult social care have been allowed to continue largely unchecked, and we know that care workers lack the safety net and protections given to their counterparts in the NHS. We support all the EHRC recommendations and urge a swift and comprehensive response by DHSC, CQC and Local Authorities with clear actions and timeframes for implementation. We hope that independent care providers with responsibility for commissioned-out services take decisive action to address bullying, harassment and unequal treatment. Only if all parts of the system accept their role in promoting equality do we stand a chance of addressing the systemic racism and discrimination highlighted by the EHRC. To read the report in full visit: https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/publication-download/experiences-health-and-social-care-treatment-lower-paid-ethnic-minority-workers Are you a lower-paid, ethnic minority worker who needs support with cost-of-living? Contact our Grants Team through our website to find out what’s available: https://www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/contact/
Safe Staffing Timetable Published Following RCN Pressure Pressure from the Royal College of Nursing has led to the Scottish government publishing a timetable for the implementation of Scotland’s safe staffing legislation. The timetable sets out a 21 month programme of work which will see the Health and Care (Staffing) (Scotland) Act implemented for April 2024. Today’s announcement comes on the back of a commitment to RCN members from the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Humza Yousaf MSP, at a meeting during RCN Congress in Glasgow earlier this month It is three years since the Act was passed – the first legislation in the UK to set out requirements for safe staffing across both health and care services. It will place a statutory duty on health and social care providers to ensure sufficient staffing levels for patient care, will require the Scottish government to annually report on what they are doing to ensure sufficient staffing levels and will strengthen the rights of staff who have concerns around staffing. Implementation was delayed as part of the pandemic response, but the COVID-19 crisis has only highlighted the reasons for passing the legislation and the need to ensure safe staffing levels across Scotland’s NHS and social care services.
Julie Lamberth, Chair, RCN Scotland Board said: “RCN members’ campaigning heavily influenced and shaped this legislation. We could see the importance of getting this right for patients and care home residents and for the wellbeing of the workforce. It is disappointing that it has taken so long for the Scottish government to commit to implementation. And while we would like to see the Act implemented sooner, nursing staff will be pleased to now have a clear timetable. “This legislation alone will not fix the nursing workforce crisis, it needs to sit alongside fair pay and improved terms, conditions and culture to ensure we can recruit and retain the nursing workforce Scotland needs.” Eileen McKenna, Associate Director for Nursing, Policy and Professional Practice said: “While it has taken longer than we would have liked to get to this point, and the timetable set out for implementation is lengthy, we are looking forward to engaging with Scottish government on the development of the guidance to support the legislation and through the testing and evaluation that will follow. We will focus on making sure that this ground-breaking and vital law works to deliver safe and effective care for patients and residents and improved working conditions for our members.”
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Beware the IoT Data Deluge: Turning Insights Into Action for Better Social Care and Housing By Lynley Meyers Product Marketing Manager at Netcall (www.netcall.com) People are living longer, prompting an urgent need for greater levels of social care, including residential care, to protect the elderly and vulnerable members of the society. The problem is that social care has been historically underfunded and that only looks set to get worse. In fact, research from UNISON revealed that local authorities responsible for delivering social care and housing are facing a massive £2.1bn shortfall, which is expected to lead to huge service and staff cuts. Combined with an “exhausted and depleted” pool of social care workers, this lack of resource could lead to devastating consequences – with a recent BBC report claiming “a tsunami” of people will be left without care unless staff shortages are tackled. Less resource means less time for home visits for those dependent on assisted living to retain their independence. Not only could this see the level of care dwindle and the wellbeing of those who need it suffer tremendously – but as a knock-on effect – many may be forced into residential accommodation adding further strain on already stretched care resources. Whilst health and social care providers are striving for better integration with local authorities – including housing associations – via the development of Integrated Care Systems (ICSs), interoperability and the continuous squeeze on budgets means there is still a long way to go to make this a reality.
SO, WHAT IS THE SOLUTION? Aside from additional funding, the only other option for the sector is to drive greater efficiencies – leaning on technology to be able to work smart and optimise the time and resource they have available. Historically, an elderly or vulnerable person might wear or carry some sort of personal alarm – but this analogue tech is now outdated. Luckily, thanks to innovations in technology and the prevalence of the internet of things (IoT), far more sophisticated options are now readily available. Housing associations can now integrate a range of smart devices and sensors within buildings to improve the day-to-day lives of residents and give peace of mind to their relatives – from remote sensors, detecting issues such as dampness or controlling temperature, to motion sensors, to detect if a vulnerable person has fallen or is in danger.
WITH GREAT POWER, COMES GREAT RESPONSIBILITY This is great news for social care, but with any new innovation – a fresh set of challenges isn’t too far behind. Whilst the data being collected from IoT devices can provide housing associations with real-time visibility, the muddle of tracking torrents of data from multiple IoT devices (often from multiple manufacturers) and recording changes in status can be overwhelming. It’s difficult to know where to start – and the more IoT devices you have, the more complex it gets. Each IoT device can upload data six times a day, resulting in multiple reports that need to be analysed, interpreted and actioned. It quickly becomes a mammoth task to keep up with separate reporting for each diagnostic, as each manufacturer reports via their own data aggregator. Data is only meaningful, when it can be interpreted and acted upon, and this can feel impossible when there is just too much to manage.
BRINGING BACK-OFFICE PROCESSES UP TO SPEED WITH IOT To tackle the data being generated by the IoT devices in residents’ homes, housing associations should urgently review their existing processes, and create new systems to keep up with this influx of data – and
use it wisely. It’s all well and good having the data but what are you going to do with it next? One element to consider is the classification of IoT data and defining a hierarchy of importance, and the necessary response that needs to be triggered. For example, data from a sensor indicating that a resident has fallen out of bed will require an immediate response. Other incidents, for example where a resident has not opened their fridge door for a period of time, indicating that they are not eating, may require a visit from a carer on their rounds. A traffic light signaling system is a great way to do this with red highlighting an urgent problem, amber a problem that needs fixing soon but is not urgent, or green indicating that there are no issues currently. From there an incident management routine and parameters can be set to respond to any anomalies and trigger a response such as an outbound SMS message or email to the residents of the property, next of kin, or an independent living officer. To put such a system in place, however, requires some thought and the development of a process that will take data from IoT devices and pass it through a series of workflows to get to the right response. Luckily, the availability of low-code technology means that housing associations can create these processes and systems internally, with minimal intervention or time investment from IT. Thanks to the nature of lowcode, which operates via a drag and drop functionality, everyday business users can easily create, and continually update, processes to suit current and future requirements.
BRINGING DATA TOGETHER INTO ONE UNIFIED VIEW In addition to classifying data and linking it to a response, it is equally important to ensure that the data is interpretable and accessible across the organisation. After all, time is often of the essence when dealing with such alerts as a resident’s health could be at risk. A simple visual aid can help with this, to enable each team to monitor for and action alerts rapidly when help is needed. Again, technologies such as low-code can be used to build an easy-to-use interface that brings together this information into one unified view. Historic data is also important. Each IoT device data tells an ongoing story, so visual reports can help to provide a quick status update, that can then be relayed to the resident, or their family or carer. Social housing providers face huge pressures when ensuring their properties meet the adequate needs of their tenants, so ensuring employees from the contact centre can check in on the status of an issue, and escalate, if necessary, is essential.
THE FUTURE FOR IOT IN SOCIAL CARE AND HOUSING Machine learning, instant feedback and remote monitoring are no longer technologies associated with the distant future; they are already with us, and this is only the beginning. IoT sensor technology in housing can ensure better care for residents, but it can also help in other areas too. For example, helping providers mitigate maintenance costs through early warnings, reducing the number of home callouts and ensuring the properties are kept in the best condition. Using smart sensors – underpinned by IoT – housing associations can diagnose issues (such as the prevalence of black mould) and regulate the resident’s environment (for example, temperature control). By allowing housing providers to monitor the condition of a property, situations can be resolved before lasting damage occurs – both to the property and the occupant's health. Whilst the initial outlay of investing in such technologies may be significant, in the long-term these tools can be extremely cost-effective due to the increased efficiency that can be achieved. Through IoT, organisations can also gather a plethora of data that drives improved decision-making. And, when integrated using low-code - which can be easily updated - it provides a foundation for new services to be added in an affordable way as needs arise and technology evolves. By combining with the right processes and being assisted by the right technology, the potential for IoT within social care and housing is phenomenal. Are you ready to fight through the data deluge and put IoT insights into action?
Caring is Sharing Opinions at Edinburgh Residential Home A Edinburgh care home has enhanced its with the resumption of monthly resident meetings after Covid restrictions were lifted. Residents at Cramond Residence will have the chance to engage in active, regular discussions about their experience in the home and to provide open and honest feedback. The meetings were halted at the outset of the coronavirus pandemic but care home management believe the facility is an important aspect in promoting independent lifestyles and ensuring residents are mentally fulfilled. Cramond Residence staff will be able to respond to any question on the running of home - from daily food menus and programmes of activities to the general service - all aimed at promoting community inclusivity. The monthly meetings have been designed to give residents a key role in their own health and wellbeing and aligns with Cramond Residence’s ethos of ensuring residents continue to live interesting and fulfilling lives, doing things they want to do on their own terms. Managing Director at Cramond Residence, Graeme Kelly said: “We are delighted to be adding the resident monthly meetings back into
our already jam-packed schedule at the care home. “It will provide our residents with the perfect opportunity to raise
any queries so that we can continue improving and adapting, and above all, continue putting the needs of the residents at the heart of what we do. “Cramond Residence provides an array of activities and specialised, tailored programmes and receiving feedback is an important way of confirming that we are meeting the needs of our residents and maintaining our status as a high-quality care home, providing the best possible care.” Included in the home’s current offering for residents and curated by its dedicated lifestyle team are bespoke physiotherapy sessions provided by boutique experts, as well as specialist dementia care delivered in an environment that combines luxury hotel living with the reassuring feeling of being in your own home. Graeme continued: “The resident meetings are optional however, we fully encourage all of our occupants to attend in order to get the best outcomes. We are really looking forward to adding this highly worthwhile service back into our programme of events and will welcome any feedback that we receive.”
Hugh Myddelton House Says Don’t Worry Beer Happy! You better beer-lieve that residents at Hugh Myddelton House care home in Southgate, were more than happy to raise a glass, and sample some top ales, in celebration of National Beer Day. Beer lovers at the home celebrated, and spread beery joy by joining the national toast at 7pm on June 15th, along with millions of people across the country to say ‘Cheers to Beer!’ The hospitality team at Hugh Myddelton House brought in a range of brew-tiful British ales for residents to sample, and they enjoyed a beer tasting in the garden, learning about the history of beer and a beer-based quiz
whilst they sampled local ales. Ramona Stanciu, General Manager at the home, said: “We love socialising and celebrating all kind of events, it is wonderful now that we can invite family and friends into our garden to join in events. National Beer Day is a day that the residents really enjoy, who doesn’t enjoy a cold beer on a summer’s day!” Charles, a resident at Hugh Myddelton House, commented: “I didn’t realise we had so many lovely local ales, it was lovely to enjoy a cold beer in the garden with other residents!”
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Dementia Management Tool ‘Vera’ Launches on Apple’s AppStore Deploying the World’s Largest Music Catalogue from Universal Music Group Vera announces strategic collaboration with Universal Music Group, allowing its users therapeutic access to the world’s largest music catalogue
Music Health, a Music Wellness Technology innovator, has developed and launched Vera, an intuitive music intervention tool designed for the care of people affected by dementia. Through a strategic, industry-first agreement, Vera App users are able to access the entire catalogue from Universal Music Group (UMG), the world’s leading music-based entertainment company, to develop personalised music stations specifically designed to improve the lives of people living with dementia every day. As an exclusive launch partner, UMG brings a diverse and comprehensive global music catalogue to Vera users. Vera is now approved by Apple for download via the AppStore in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA, with the crosssector Music for Dementia campaign welcoming the launch to help improve the lives of people impacted by dementia. The launch is the culmination of Music Health’s rigorous three-year development process which involved global research and development of the underlying technology that allows Vera to curate the perfect song at the right time for every individual listener. The announcement follows the launch at Universal Music UK of the Power Of Music, a report from UK Music and Music for Dementia, which outlines a blueprint to use music to help transform communities and improve the nation’s health and wellbeing. It includes a commitment from Universal Music UK to develop a dynamic online resource which will serve as a music and dementia information hub. Grace Meadows, campaign director, Music for Dementia, says, “Research shows that music is much more impactful for people living with dementia when it holds meaning and is associated with moments from someone’s life. In our recently launched Power of Music report, which sets out how we can be harnessing the power of music more to support health and wellbeing, we emphasised the need for a personalised approach to embedding music in health and social care, and the Vera App helps carers to do that.” The power of personalised music to affect a significant improvement in cognitive function for people in dementia care is evidenced by international scientists and neurologists, including award-winning neuroscientist and best-selling author, Daniel J. Levitin; the late physician,
best-selling author and professor of neurology, Dr. Oliver Sacks; and Ronald Devere, M.D., director of the Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders Center in Austin, Texas. Dr. Ren Minghui from the World Health Organization, says, “While there is no curative treatment for dementia, the proactive management of modifiable risk factors can delay or slow onset or progression of the disease. I urge all stakeholders to make the best use of these recommendations to improve the lives of people with dementia, their carers and their families.” Vera analyses the age of the dementia affected person, where they grew up, and how they react to certain music. It uses these criteria to autonomously curate the right songs at the right times to effectively manage the Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD). More than 80 percent of people living with dementia experience BPSD, manifesting as agitation, aggression, depression, or confusion. Vera stimulates the part of the brain responsible for long-term memory to help manage the impact of BPSD, easing the care routine of those living with dementia. Listening to personally significant music - all the noteworthy songs from our own life - is shown to effectively decrease the effects of BPSD helping to improve mood, cognitive function, motor functions and brain plasticity. Vera curates songs from UMG’s unrivalled catalogue, the world’s largest, most diverse and culturally rich collection of blues, classical, country, folk, jazz, pop, R&B, reggae, rock ‘n’ roll, soul and soundtracks. The songs are autonomously curated and played directly from the Vera app via speakers or headphones. With more than 20,000 hours of observation and rigorous analysis, combined with research from the Global Centre for Modern Ageing, confirms that Vera has a significant positive impact on the quality of life of people dealing with BPSD. While not a cure, Vera is a tool that can temporarily improve the cognitive function and mood of the person living with dementia making it easier to care for them. Stephen Hunt, Music Health co-founder, says, “We’ve built Vera to know and find the music that means the most and has the biggest effect for each person living with dementia. It acts like a music detective, that seeks out tunes that they used to love a long time ago but may have forgotten about, which their carers may have never heard of, and their families may not even know.” Vera is a product of Australian collaborative innovation. Music Health credits Barossa Village, Dementia Australia, the Australian Department of Health and the Global Centre For Modern Ageing (GCMA) for helping realise the innovation since 2019. The Department of Health provided a research grant in 2019, following Vera winning Dementia Australia’s Decoding Dementia competition. “I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to bring Vera to market thanks to our amazing partnership with Universal Music Group and the many care home and researchers that have made it possible. It’s thanks to their
early support for the concept that we’ve been able to deliver this foundational change to the daily lives of those living with dementia, here and around the world,” adds Hunt. Michael Nash, UMG’s Executive Vice President of Digital Strategy, says, “From rigorous workouts to peaceful meditation to restorative sleep cycles, music is deeply integrated into numerous innovations promoting health and wellbeing. Now, scientists are finding that music is also a powerful tool for helping those suffering from the effects of dementia and memory loss. At UMG, we are working with a wide range of companies to develop therapeutical applications of music and we ’re proud to partner with Music Health on Vera to help improve the lives of so many around the world.” Barossa Village, an aged care organisation, worked with Music Health to refine the app and validate the impact Vera has on people living with dementia. This included daily monitoring of the changes Vera had on the people being cared for at Barossa Village as listening sessions were integrated into the daily routine of care. Findings from the studies showed an overall increase in quality of life for participants, especially after using Vera for several months. You can view a video of Barossa Village’s experience here. “Vera provides playlists that are targeted and tailored to how each of our residents relates to their favourite songs. It’s an amazing innovation. And family members love it as they can participate in a shared experience with mum or dad, grandad or nanna,” says Matt Kowald, General Manager, Integrated Care at Barossa Village. Vera is currently in trials with BUPA, an international healthcare company headquartered in the UK serving more than 31 million customers across the world, as well as several of Australia’s most innovative health and aged care providers offering hospital care, residential care and community services. Vera is available in the U.K. for GBP £69.99 for a 12-month care plan. Visit www.veramusic.com for further details.
Abbeyfield Scotland to Transfer to Blackwood Homes and Care Abbeyfield residents have voted overwhelmingly to transfer to Blackwood Homes and Care in a secret ballot. With a 98.8% Yes vote there is no doubt that residents in all 14 shared Abbeyfield Houses are pleased with the prospect. The move to Blackwood will protect the future of the Abbeyfield residents and employees. Abbeyfield made the decision to partner with Blackwood because they share a similar purpose and commitment to help people live independently. Nance Smith, Chair of Abbeyfield Scotland, said: “We are pleased that after much discussion and focusing on what matters most for our residents, they have got a great solution for the future – which they clearly have endorsed in this vote. “The transfer will allow more investment for their homes, enhance services to support independent living and keep rents affordable.” Julie McDowell, Chair of Blackwood, said: “We are delighted that Abbeyfield residents have welcomed our engagement with them.
“Like Blackwood, Abbeyfield has a long history of helping people to live independently and we’re privileged to be able to continue its legacy. “Our team really enjoyed meeting the residents and we look forward to building our relationship further with them and with their highly valued staff teams. “We’ll be bringing our technology and services to our new customers and 76 new staff members – creating a modern independent living model which we believe will be in great demand in all the communities Abbeyfield currently serves.” Blackwood and Abbeyfield will now progress the transfer process, aiming to complete later in the year. Julie added: “This is a major celebration for us with Abbeyfield residents in our 50th year. We’re incredibly excited for the opportunity to help even more people live life to the full as we celebrate our legacy and look forward to the next 50 years.”
Still Going Strong After 38 Years Providing Specialist Bathing Solutions Not a lot has changed in the 38 years that I have been in the business of providing bathing solutions. In 1984, I sold my first Appollo seat lift bath. The bathtubs were made of GRP and the lifting power was hydraulic fluid power. The baths were basically oblong & white. Roy
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Parker (of Parker Baths) had a tilting bath and then a height adjustable bath came along.
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Other than changing from hydraulics to electronic lifting, everything is more or less the same.
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THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 25
Scottish Government Publishes National Care Service Bill A National Care Service Bill has been published by the Scottish Government to target improved outcomes for people accessing care and support. The National Care Service Bill will make Scottish Ministers accountable for adult social care in Scotland, and will ensure the best possible outcomes for people accessing care and support and end the ‘postcode lottery’ of care. The Bill provides the foundation for the NCS, and enables the fine detail of the new service to be codesigned with people who have direct experience of social care services. Plans have also been published to explain how that collaboration will work. The aims are to: • support people in their own homes or among family, friends and community wherever possible, with seamless transitions between services; • create a charter of rights and responsibilities for social care, with a robust complaints and redress process; • introduce rights to breaks for unpaid carers • introduce visiting rights for residents living in adult care homes, giving legal force to Anne’s Law • ensure fair employment practices and national pay bargaining for the social care workforce; • focus on prevention and early intervention before people’s needs escalate; • create a new National Social Work Agency to promote training and development, provide national leadership and set and monitor standards in social work.
On a visit to Aberdeen-based charity VSA, which supports people with a wide range of social care needs, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Humza Yousaf said: “This is the most ambitious reform of public services since the creation of the NHS. “People have told us they want a National Care Service, accountable to Scottish Ministers, with services designed and delivered locally. That’s exactly what we are going to deliver. “The design of the NCS will have human rights embedded throughout, and the actual shape and detail of how the NCS works will be designed with those who have direct experience of accessing and providing social care. “We are going to end the postcode lottery of care in Scotland. Through the National Care Service we’re going to ensure everyone has access to consistently high-quality care and support so they can live a full life. This is our ambitious goal and while it will not be easy to achieve it is vital that we do.” Social Care Minister Kevin Stewart said: “One of the key benefits of a National Care Service will be to ensure our social care and social work workforce are valued, and that unpaid carers get the recognition they deserve. “When this Bill passes we will be able to have the new National Care Service established by the end of this parliament. In the interim we will continue to take steps to improve outcomes for people accessing care – working with key partners, including local government, and investing in the people who deliver community health and social care and support.”
Table Tennis Is A Hit In Social Care, New Report Reveals A new report has highlighted the incredible impact that table tennis can have across social care settings in promoting accessible activity, social connection and friendships. Community Integrated Care, one of Britain’s biggest social care charities, has led a two-year exploration of the sport, in partnership with Table Tennis England. The findings of this project have been published in their new impact report, ‘Care To Play – Pioneering Table Tennis in Social Care’. The report finds that table tennis offers a uniquely inclusive platform for physical activity, with significant adaptability for people who have complex physical and learning disabilities. The charity has seen that table tennis can be used in many innovative ways to enhance support – including being effectively used with talking therapies in mental health services. Importantly, it highlights the fun and excitement that it can bring to care services, as a low cost and low-complexity sport – helping to combat isolation, form friendships and promote a positive culture. Community Integrated Care has utilised table tennis in many services – from specialist dementia care services, to community projects for people who have learning disabilities – since 2018. In June 2020, as Covid-19 brought lockdown to the UK, it innovatively identified that table tennis could maintain physical activity in care homes, as a socially distanced sport. The charity and Table Tennis England formed a strategic partnership to introduce the sport across its services and assess its impact. This programme saw more than 200 of Community Integrated Care’s services receive table tennis starter packs, enabling thousands of people to remain active during the pandemic. This initial effort has since been furthered as the programme has evolved, with the charity creating table tennis hubs in 27 of its larger services, benefitting almost 1500 people, and creating a number of bespoke activity clubs. With such an expansive programme, Community Integrated Care has explored the benefits of table tennis across a comprehensive range of client groups – including people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health concerns, dementia, acquired brain injuries, and other complex needs. These collectively represent a true cross-section of the social care sector in England, enabling first-of-its-kind insights into the application of the sport in social care. The delivery of this programme was enabled by Community Integrated Care’s creation of www.CareToPlay.co.uk. This unique training guide to promoting table tennis in social care, which uses short and engaging videos, meant that its workforce was capable of effectively delivering the activity. This resource was made freely available to the public and care sector and has since been adopted by several other care and NHS organisations. The new impact report can be downloaded now at www.CommunityIntegratedCare.co.uk/tabletennis. It provides several innovative examples of the life-changing impact of the sport. The charity’s specialist for Positive Behaviour Support, Vickie Martin, states: “During the pandemic, I spent extended time in one of our
Watch Factory, a Extra Care service that supports people with a range of disabilities, provided hundreds of hours of one-to-one table tennis activities in people’s flats during the pandemic, to offer company and stimulation for people who did not receive daily support and therefore would be alone. Their Manager, Marie Godfrey, explains in the report: “We soon saw the power of this - even with a short visit, people would be talking about it for days.” She adds: “It’s been so important for mental health, stimulation, and motivation for all sorts of people, including our staff. I really feel that table tennis has brought people together.”
GROWING MOMENTUM
most complex autism services, where we have 12 people living together with complex needs. Nobody could go out and do their usual planned activities, and there were times when people were very upset and frustrated. “Table tennis gave them something positive to focus on in their day. It gave people time for themselves or with their support workers, and through the Care To Play training, our colleagues knew how to adapt the activity depending upon the needs of the individual.” The report finds that table tennis has a unique adaptability, as both a group or individual sport. Vickie highlights: “Table tennis can be very social, giving people a reason to come together, or it can be enclosed and more solitary if that’s what you need. Simply hitting the ball against a wall and using a repetitive action is very soothing for some.” It finds that the sport can help promote a friendly and welcoming culture, bringing fun and friendship into social care settings. This has proved particularly beneficial in mental health services, helping people to find the confidence to integrate with others and supporting their recovery. Alan Howells, a specialist Mental Health Nurse for the charity, explains: “Dealing with complex mental health issues can be a solitary experience and people can get quite isolated. Table tennis is another tool to help people to develop their confidence to build bonds with others.” The report provides examples of how people have felt it easier to open up and share their feelings, during a friendly game – providing a novel alternative to more traditional mental health assessments. Alan says: “When dealing with complex mental health issues, people can lack motivation, and find it difficult to engage in activities, or indeed with others. Table tennis has helped counteract some of those issues.” The impact of the sport as a social and adaptable game, is a recurring theme across all care settings – from support for young adults who have learning disabilities, through to engagement with people in the later stages of life. The report provides a powerful case study of the life-changing impact this social connection had on people during lockdown. The
This momentum for the sport continues to grow within the charity, as hundreds of people it supports are set to enjoy special ‘ping pong parties’ during upcoming The Commonwealth Games. The charity’s partnership with Table Tennis England has also recently been shortlisted for the ‘Sporting Chance’ honour at the National Learning Disability and Autism Awards. John Hughes, Director of Partnerships at Community Integrated Care, says: “Table Tennis has proved to be an incredible addition to so many of our services, promoting fun, friendship and physical activity, in an accessible and inclusive way. “Our ‘Care To Play’ report shares several profound examples of how this simple sport has positively impacted people’s lives – both during the worst of the pandemic, and now as we look to happier days ahead. We hope that this report inspires others to replicate and build upon our successes. “We are grateful to our partners Table Tennis England for their incredible vision, in being so open to exploring the potential health and social impact of their sport in social care. Our thanks also go to Sport England, who have been instrumental in our efforts to expand physical activity options for people who access social care.” Colin Eley, Partnerships Manager at Table Tennis England, says: “ We’re well-versed on the benefits Table Tennis can have on a person’s well-being. What we havent necessarily been able to establish previously is the extent that the sport can benefit audiences who have complex physical or learning disabilities. Working with Community Integrated Care, we have not only been able to establish a wealth of insight and informtion to support our theories, but also postively impact the lives of people who tyically may not have opportunities to engage with the sport. Table Tennis is for everyone, and since inception, partnering with Community Intgerated Care has always felt like a necessity for Table Tennis England. Social Care as a sector is where we know our sport can thrive and make an impacT. This was powerfully demonstrated when lockdown hit, and the sport continued to support people’s phsycial and emotional health. This is just the beginning of what we hope will be an embedded culture of the sport within Community Integrated Care and the social care sector as a whole. Special thanks to the charity‘‘s teams who shared our vision to take Ping Pong to the people!”
Care Assistant At Blackpool Care Home Celebrates 25 Years In Role A care assistant at a Blackpool based care home has celebrated her 25 year work anniversary and says her love for the job is still as strong as it was when she began. Kath Owen has been working at MHA Pennystone Court, in Blackpool since 1997 and was given a surprise party at the home to celebrate her achievements, along with an award showcasing her time with MHA. The home, which has 36 places for dementia and residential care was Kath’s first experience with MHA and she says ‘this will probably be my last job’. She added: “I had worked in the social care sector before but I have really enjoyed my time at MHA Pennystone Court and still have the same passion and love for the job when I first started. “Things have changed over the years which is normal and that is part and parcel of wherever you work, especially when it is as long as I have been here. “I get along really well with the residents and staff members, and that makes a huge difference. “We are like a family and I really enjoy the days I am at work, when you spend a long time with staff and residents you really get to know each other and for me it's a big
part of why I am still working here. “Working for an organisation like MHA has been good, they really do look after their staff members and I would definitely recommend it to others. “During tough times like Covid, we all supported each other and made sure we carried on supporting others. “For those who are thinking of starting a career in care or have just started out, my advice would be to only do this job if you have a genuine passion for care and supporting others. “The job is not made for everyone so only choose this path if you are serious about it and I am confident you will enjoy it just as much as I have.” Lisa Robins, home manager said: “Kath is a well-loved part of the furniture here at MHA Pennystone Court and she is a very dedicated and committed member of staff. “She knows all the likes/dislikes of the residents, and the surprise party was just a way for us to show her how important she is to us. “She is a very shy person, but I am sure she loved the party and having all the staff and residents there was great.”
PAGE 26 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Wall & Door Protection Reduce Your Operating Costs!! for a Caring Environment For 55 years Yeoman Shield wall & door protection systems from Harrison Thompson & Co. Ltd. have been delivering healthcare providers with a solution to costly and unsightly impact damage to interior walls & doors. This proactive approach to impact damage can show a year on year saving on maintenance time and budgets. Offering a comprehensive range which includes, protection panels, protection rails, handrails and fire rated door protection systems, offered in over 48 colours, gives customers a wide choice to realise functional and aesthetic requirements. The ability to incorporate colours, signage and images, into Yeoman Shield’s core products can be beneficial to mental health environments be that creating a calming atmosphere or a practical assistance in wayfinding. The Guardian Handrail can also be supplied in an anti-ligature option safeguarding service users. Fire doors are never more important than in a residential setting catering for those more vulnerable. Yeoman Shield offer a full fire rated door protec-
Opeque can assist in reducing energy bills, complying with legislation, managing health and safety and achieving a sustainable operation. Over years, Opeque has worked with various industry sectors, from tyre manufacturing to laundries, schools to hotels and hospitals to care homes, optimising their manufacturing procedures and facilities mantion system that when installed can prevent compromising impact damage and by doing so extends the functioning lifecycle of fire doors. To complement these products is the company’s newly launched Fire Door Services giving reassurance to the building’s responsible person by offering fire door assessments, remedial and door replacement works all carried out under FIRAS accreditation. Tel: 0113 279 5854 | email: info@yeomanshield.com www.yeomanshield.com See the advert on page 10.
Inclusive Furniture • Consider the elderly • Make the products affordable • Make rental to events an option • Use sustainable products where possible We then thought we need to provide picnic benches and outdoor furniture for people who use wheelchairs. There is definitely a need for disabled, easy access outdoor furniture. All made robustly to take the knocks from wheelchairs and manufactured from sustainable wood from environmentally friendly sources. They also need to make the user feel inclusive.
Consort Claudgen launches Consort Connect app Consort Claudgen have launched Consort Connect app which allows users to have complete control over their heating remotely via their smartphone or tablet. The app is free and downloadable from Google Play or Apple Store. It can control Consort’s Wi-Fi enabled heaters and SL heaters connected to an SLPBWIFI wireless controller. It gives quick access to four operating modes and provides a 7day timer with twenty-four heating periods per day. It is easy to set up and users can configure the settings of all connected heaters on
the app. Users can also view the energy consumption statistics. Other features include a lock function, open window tracking and response capability, and custom automations. There is a selflearning control ability utilising occupancy and temperature sensors, however, this is only available on the SLPBWIFI controller and Consort heaters with Wi-Fi and occupancy sensor. For more information, contact our sales at 01646 692172 or visit www.consortepl.com or see the advert on page 6.
Safeguard Your Care Home with InVentry Care homes are crucial for our society, so it’s important to ensure they’re a safe setting to help staff carry out the best possible care. With many family members and friends visiting their loved ones daily, InVentry is essential to track who’s entering and leaving your care home. Visitors are met with a simple signing in process and their information is stored directly in the system. This not only allows you to track who is onsite at any given time, but it ensures an even faster sign in during repeat visits. You can also ensure that the contractors you have onsite have the skills to do the job safely by asking custom questions before they sign in, with options to include documents they may need to read upon arrival, ensuring health & safety and the security of
your site is always maintained. InVentry can even help you become CQC and Care Inspectorate Compliant as our software allows you to receive star-rated feedback from those who have visited your care home. You can store this feedback within your system and note any actions taken to improve your processes and procedures! Head to our website: www.inventry.co.uk or see the advert on page 11.
Frail & Thinning Skin Can Often Lead To Skin Tears Fragile or thin skin that tears easily is a common problem, especially among older adults. Our skin becomes thinner as we age, or as a result of sun damage and lifestyle factors. Thin skin bruises and tears more easily of course. Certain medications, such as long-term use of topical corticosteroids can also weaken the skin and the blood vessels in the skin Can skin tears be prevented? YES! Use Limbkeepers premium skin protectors! So why Limbkeepers Protectors? Limbkeepers arm sleeves, leg sleeves, and gloves help protect fragile, thin, bruised skin on arms, hands, and legs, from abrasions, skin tears, and injury from impact. Our non-compression arm protectors and leg
protectors provide seamless, form fitting, cushioned comfort and can be easily worn under apparel without bulk. Our versatile products help to reduce injuries, allow you to continue daily activities and maintain quality of life and independence. Made in the USA and supplied from the UK, they are sold in pairs and assorted colours at affordable prices. Limbkeepers are available in regular or lightweight arm, forearm or leg sleeves. Limbkeepers UK Ltd, Demontfort House, 7e Enterprise Way, Vale Park, Evesham WR11 1GS For more information or to buy go to www.limbkeepers.co.uk See the advert on page 7.
agement. Applying industrial engineering principles, we address productivity, resource efficiency, quality control, health and safety and asset management, bringing people, utilities, equipment, and buildings together to realise product excellence. We have worked with many care homes to provide laundry services and water hygiene and it is from these close relationships that we believe we can further assist your CARE HOME to reduce operating costs. or see the advert on page 11. 07831 873355, email Call or Email NOW: admin@opeque.com or visit www.opeque.com See the advert on page 19 for details.
WHY CARE HOMES? Not long ago we noticed that in our local park there was adequate seating for the non-disabled but none for the wheelchair-user, the more we looked the more we saw a complete lack of effort in complying with regulations and laws specifically brought in to counter this ignorance and discrimination. We decide to act, our plan was: • Make our products both 'accessible & 'inclusive'. • Design furniture with the wheelchair-user in mind • Act within both the Disability Act and the Equality Act • Provide quality products for non-disabled and disabled alike.
...because not only is it their legal duty under the discrimination acts people who happen to use wheelchairs also happen to enjoy sitting outside in fine weather, they are also appreciated in public places as well as private homes & gardens and places where care is a first priority Peter Cubbin Inclusivefurniture.com inclusivefurniture@gmail.com https://inclusivefurniture.com 07775717880 See the advert on page 19 for details.
Health and Safety Matters – Keep Up to Date The National Association for Safety and Health in Care Services ( NASHiCS ) focuses on all health and safety matters affecting the social care sector. The association has goes from strength to strength and has a growing membership across many providers and organisations covering the UK. Keeping up to date regarding Health and Safety matters is vital. The more you know, the more you can plan and the more you plan, the less you are susceptible in turbulent times. Through the association you can Network with colleagues responsible for Health and Safety, share your own ‘best practice’ experiences and hear how others have overcome challenges. Attend dedicated events, on health and safety at special member rates; and participate in national and local Networkers, Conferences and Seminars, in-person or virtual. Advertise job vacancies free; and benefit from special member offers and rates from suppliers of goods services and equipment. Receive regular update emails covering latest
Terryberry - Be Recognised, Be Engaged Terryberry is a global employee engagement solutions provider, HQ in Grand Rapids Michigan with UK offices in Cheshire and Cardiff, we help companies of all sizes, across all sectors. A dedicated account manager is included as part of all our employee reward & recognition programmes, who are on hand to guide you through every stage of the process. We’ve helped companies such as Co-op, AstraZeneca, Coca-Cola, M&S, Airbus, Jaguar Land Rover & The White Company run successful Long Service Award and Employee Benefits schemes. Visit our website: www.terryberry.com/gb to learn more about our 360 Recognition platform. See the advert on page 21 for details.
developments and safety alerts/news; while giving access to current information, links on key safety topics; and monthly our highly praised e-News. Matters cover range from fire safety, training, infection control, lone working, falls prevention, first aid to stress, legionella, case law, regulation, people moving people and mock courts to mention just a few. See our website for report on past events – www.nashics.org We have national links with other organisations, government bodies and enforcement agencies. Our aim is to promote and improve safety and health in care practice by providing a sharing and networking forum for debate, and discussion. Joining NASHiCS is a great and easy way to keep informed and aware. Health and Safety is an essential and matters to everyone involved with social care now and in the future. Find out more – administrator@nashics.org | www.nashics.org | 07840 160 030 See the advert on page 11 for further details.
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 27
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Forbes Helps Care Homes Maintain Cash’s Labels- “The Name Critical Hygiene Standards Behind the Name” For the care sector, laundry has always been absolutely central to infection control. Furthermore, in order to ensure continuity of service, it is essential to have a reliable service partner in place when needed. Any prolonged machine downtime can have significant operation implications for a care environment, so it is important to have access to a same/next day breakdown response. Home residents deserve the very highest standards and care operators need to source laundry equipment that is both cost and energy efficient whilst meeting the most stringent hygiene standards. Forbes Professional is proud to be Miele‘s national distribution partner. This enables us to offer their new Benchmark machines, which truly set new standards in laundry care. Combining high performance levels with both user and sustainable efficiency, they effortlessly meet all of the challenges of the care sector’s laundry operations. Optimised and intelligent technology combines with simple connectivity for fast and efficient cycles whilst thermo and chemo-thermal disinfection enable the critical hygiene control. Forbes offers prospective clients comprehensive site surveys and entirely transparent cost calculations.
Our in-house engineers fully install and commission all equipment as well as offering complimentary usertraining. Our ever popular Complete Care rental solution is a more sustainable alternative than outright purchase. It also gives care homes access to our multiaward winning service support at no extra cost for the life of the contract. www.forbespro.co.uk info@forbes-professional.co.uk 0345 070 2335 See the advert on page 14.
Renray Healthcare 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 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.
Free Online PAT Testing Course Everyone can benefit from free training! Parker Bell offers a free online PAT Testing course, which is ideal Care Home Managers and maintenance staff. It gives you all the information about your legal obligations and responsibilities. It also covers practicalities such as: • Equipment needed • Full visual Inspection • How to do a PAT Test • What records to keep As a result of the pandemic, many have found their working environment has changed dramatically. You may no longer allow people/contractors on your premises, PAT Testing is straightforward to do and can be easily managed in house. Our free course will show you how you can PAT Test, and what’s more, the HSE say any competent person can do it!
How do you access the free PAT Testing Course? It’s simple, just go to www.onlinepattestingcourse.co.uk. Here you will be able to access the course, you just need an email address to sign up. The course is made up of short modules and is simple to follow.
Who should do the course? Probably everyone should do the course, as it shows you basic electrical equipment safety; which given the
amount of electrical equipment we now have in our homes makes sense. Both employers and employees are responsible for inspecting and maintaining electrical equipment in the work place. So you should encourage all staff to do the course. What equipment do you need? Any competent person can PAT Test, however you will need to use a PAT Tester that give you and outcome Pass or Fail. It’s great if the PAT Tester has readings as well, but they are not essential.
How often should I PAT Test? Frequency of PAT Testing is dependent on your Risk Assessment. You need to include the routine inspection & maintenance of electrical equipment in your Risk Assessment and the risk should determine the frequency. Factors affecting the frequency include: • What the electrical equipment is • How often its’ used • Where its’ used • Who uses it Want to discuss further? You can call us on 01392 364933 or email sales@parker-bell.co.uk We are always happy to help! See the advert on page 7.
Taking Care of Your Needs Passive fire protection needs to be at the forefront of all our minds but what is passive fire protection? Passive fire protection assesses a building in detail, poorly maintained fire doors, voids in ceilings & service shafts and penetrations made in walls, floors or ceilings can become conduits through which fire and smoke can spread. By identifying these failures within the fabric of the building, specialist repairs can be made to reinstate the compartmentation of the building to maximise the time available to evacuate the property, and or prevent a fire from taking hold in the first place. For many this remains a concern and knowing where to start can be stressful. It is important that you do your due diligence and you seek out a trained, competent, third-party accredited company to work with you and to discuss your needs. We are often told how a client has struggled to secure the services of a passive fire contractor. We have found many companies would prefer to concentrate on large, long term contracts rather than smaller
At Cash's, we aim to capture, reinforce and communicate our clients’ brand equity through quality and innovation, from design to distribution. Our product range fully caters for the needs of both small and large retailers and brand owners alike comprising of woven and printed labels, woven badges, care labels, branded and promotional swing tags, garment accessories, packaging and barcoding. Our ground breaking labelling and security technologies are also able to provide an unrivalled level of protection to our customers' brand
by assisting to combat counterfeiting and grey market activity. Our industry leading eCommerce system is designed to reduce cost, improve efficiency and streamline supply chain management and will fully protect the integrity and accuracy of critical business data. The order entry process is very simple meaning suppliers and vendors can spend their valuable time on tasks other than ordering apparel labelling and accessories. Visit www.cashslabels.com or see the advert on page 13.
Otiom, the World's First IoT Device Designed To Prevent People With Dementia From Becoming Lost
Although commonplace, wandering can be dangerous or even life-threatening for people with dementia, and the stress can weigh heavily on friends, family and carers. Otiom - is beginning to make a positive impact in the social care sector and is demonstrating its potential to be a gamechanger for the care of people living with dementia.
WHAT IS OTIOM? Otiom is a unique and discrete tagging device which people with dementia can easily carry. It utilises IoT technology to ensure reliable tracking indoors and outdoors, and has a long battery life.
THE OTIOM SYSTEM: Firstly, the tag: the monitoring device which is carried by the person with a tendency to wander. Secondly, the home base: which is placed in the home of the person with dementia. The Otiom tag constantly communicates with the home base via Bluetooth while the person is at home. Thirdly, the app: which is free on iOS or Android and allows an unlimited number of caregivers or relatives to operate the system. The app allows caregivers to set a safety level depending on individual circumstances. The safety levels have been designed to cater for all stages of dementia. At its lowest setting, location data can only be accessed when carers are concerned about a per-
son’s whereabouts to manually raise the alarm. The fact that tracking is non-constant helps avoid any invasion of privacy for the person with dementia. Otiom can be managed using a smartphone and a safety zone can be set outside the personal home or care facility where the person resides, including gardens or community areas. If the person leaves the safety zone, an alarm will be triggered and the Otiomapp will show the current location. Please get in touch if you would like to learn more about Otiom. Call: 0131 467 5764 Email: Mail@pentlandmedical.co.uk www.pentlandmedical.co.uk See the advert on page 9.
MOWOOT II Combats Chronic Constipation MOWOOT II is a revolutionary non-invasive and nonpharmacological solution to chronic constipation. Developed by a team of medical professionals, MOWOOT II delivers gentle abdominal massage that speeds up intestinal transit in people with chronic constipation. Clinically proven and free from side-effects, MOWOOT II Chronic Constipation Therapy System fights constipation effectively, safely and comfortably without laxatives, enemas or colon cleansing supplements. Comfortable during use, MOWOOT II treats and manages chronic constipation in people with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease as well as helps to combat medication-related constipation issues. MOWOOT II also fights chronic constipation in menopausal and post-menopausal women and elderly people. In a published clinical study*, MOWOOT II increased evacuation frequency, softened stools, improved reg-
ularity, reduced gasses and bloating and relieved abdominal discomfort. Results showed that as many as 72.2% patients experienced increased bowel movements, 77.4% patients manifested reduction in constipation symptoms and 81.0% patients enjoyed better quality of life. In just 10 to 20 minutes per day of abdominal massage with MOWOOT II, significant improvements were noted only days after the first treatment, whilst regular applications of MOWOOT II delivered positive health benefits and better quality of life. MOWOOT II – effective, safe and comfortable solution to chronic constipation! *McClurg D; Booth L; Herrero-Fresneda I. Safety and Efficacy of Intermittent Colonic Exoperistalsis Device to Treat Chronic Constipation: A Prospective Multicentric Clinical Trial. Clin Trans Gastroenterology 2020; 11(12): e00267. See the advert on page 5 or ontact Win Health Medical Ltd - 01835 864866 - www.win-health.com
properties. We realised very quickly that we had an opportunity to provide a bespoke service for each of our clients taking care of individual needs. Over time we have become specialised in working within a live environment such as residential accommodation. When the project is complete, it does not mean the end of our relationship, UK Passive Fire Solutions is part of East Riding Group Ltd. We can offer many other services to you such as UK Pest Control Service and our Hospitality, Kitchen & Hygiene Products (HKHP) UK Passive Fire Solutions work with you from start to finish. Call or email today to get more information and receive your information pack; email info@ukpassivefiresolutions.co.uk or call: 01262 469872. See the advert on page 6 for further information.
PAGE 28 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
CONTINENCE CARE Top Tips For Healthy Skin When Living with Incontinence Healthy skin is a physical barrier against the external environment. The pH balance of skin should be between 4.5 and 5.5 to discourage bacterial growth.
HOW TO ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN A NORMAL PH BALANCE: • Prevent changes to normal skin pH by cleaning up quickly after each episode of urine loss. • Choose mild skin cleansers, moisturisers and sealants. • Be aware that perspiration, in combination with continence pads and briefs, creates an extra risk factor for skin problems.
DO’S AND DON’TS WHEN CARING FOR YOUR SKIN • Always use the pads prescribed for you and make sure that they are fitted correctly • Tell your nurse if your skin is wet when you change your incontinence pad • Tell your nurse if you have eczema or psoriasis or are prone to other conditions that affect your skin • Note the condition of your skin whilst using incontinence pads • Tell your nurse if there are any changes to your skin. • This would include if your skin becomes red, sore or broken. • Tell your nurse if you are using any ointments or creams
• Wash your hands before and after changing your pad • Don’t apply ointments or creams unless prescribed by your doctor or nurse. • Don’t use talcum powder on your bottom or groin area. It can cause friction which may damage the skin and also affect how well your pad works. • Don’t wear more than one pad at a time
Important advice Oil based barrier creams may reduce the performance of the pads. If barrier creams must be used, they should be applied sparingly and only on areas that require treatment. Used products should be disposed of in the appropriate manner, they cannot be flushed down the toilet. The iD range of products is available to buy from www.id-direct.com or via Ontex - See the advert on page 7 for details.
Help To Manage Your Incontinence Issues Independently The Bendi Bag is ideal for wheelchair users who can sometimes find toilet access difficult The Comfort Leg Bag range comes in variety of materials from velvet smooth, real cotton and flock backing The Children’s Bag with smaller capacity and proportions comes with a discreet and secure twist tap that will not open accidentally while moving, or out and about
Urinary incontinence affects millions of people in the UK. Although a widespread problem, incontinence remains a taboo topic. Embarrassment often stops people from talking about it, let alone feeling able to access products and services that can help them. So, without the correct help and support, the problem often remains unsolved, which has a negative impact on people’s lives.
COMFORTABLE AND EFFECTIVE Since 1976 Manfred Sauer have provided a range of innovative urology products to help sufferers of urinary incontinence. But unlike other providers, our products are often designed and tested by both end users and healthcare professionals to ensure effective and user-friendly solutions that work. This means your incontinence issues can be managed independently, without worrying about frequent emptying or toilet access and do not impinge on your ability to live life to the full. Read about four of our most popular product ranges, which are all available on prescription.
SHEATHS We offer 5 types of urinary sheath to facilitate the drainage of urine away from the body into a drainage bag. They are made from either latex, or synthetic materials and available in a range of sizes. We also offer skin friendly tapes, straps and adhesives, hair guards, measuring tape as well as Preventox, which cleans and protects the skin, so you are always comfortable and have the best fit possible.
IQ CATHETER
LEGBAGS We supply four main types of leg bags with varying capacities. Perfect for being outdoors, and packed full of unique features and benefits, you now have a choice when it comes to managing your incontinence issues. The shape of our Discreet Thigh Bag allows for it to be worn high up on the thigh area and can even be hidden under shorts, skirts and even swimwear
Thousands of people across the country must perform Intermittent Self-Catheterisation (ISC) to effectively empty their bladder and having something that is simple to use, soft, flexible and easy to lubricate is essential. That’s where our IQ-Cath shines, plus, new for 2022 are male/paediatric and female single-use hydrophilic catheters which are immersed in saline and ready for immediate use. Nephsys For people who have had a Nephrostomy, and tubes are already in place, our NephSys system can drastically improve their lives. As well as providing a secure and sterile solution, which consists of an adjustable, elasticated belt; drainage bags and suspenders to secure the bag to the belt in the chosen position, the system is also comfortable and discreet. For help, support and advice, call 01604 595696, email helpline@manfred-sauer.co.uk or visit www.manfred-sauer.co.uk for more information about each product, or to order a free sample.
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 31
HYGIENE & INFECTION CONTROL
Exclusive Antimicrobial Scrub Technology Launched by Grahame Gardner and Micro-Fresh ®
Grahame Gardner has unveiled a brand new Micro-Fresh® scrub top and trouser range which uses leading antimicrobial technology to stay fresher longer. The range, exclusive to Grahame Gardner, incorporates cutting-edge technology Micro-Fresh® to help keep healthcare workers safe whilst maintaining unrivalled comfort. The garment fabric, which is 65 per cent polyester and 35 per cent cotton, is incorporated with innovative Micro-fresh® technology at point of manufacture. The antimicrobial technology not only kills 99.9 per cent of bacteria beyond 50 washes but is also proven to reduce the spread of human coronavirus by 99.2 per cent. With wash resistant antibacterial protection, Micro-Fresh® also boasts odour prevention, providing longer lasting freshness for the wearer. The scrubs are hypoallergenic, gentle on skin and vegan friendly. The exclusive scrubs will stocked available in two fits – unisex and female – and the scrub top will be available in six colourways: Oasis, Navy, Eau de Nil, Bottle, Smoke Grey and Blue 18 each with a classic contrasting white trim The trousers will be available in Navy, Bottle and Black. Grahame Gardner will also offer all six scrub colours in their Made to Order range with a bespoke choice of trim colour. The scrub top design features multiple pockets, including two waterproof chest pockets and a wearers right hand hip pocket, which also has a pen divide and an elastic loop for a clip-on hand sanitiser. The trousers have a
drawstring waist, and also side and a back pockets. A range of Micro-Fresh® tie back scrub caps will also be available in the same six colours to complement the scrubs, plus two additional colours – Black & Royal Blue Sarah Lowe, from Grahame Gardner, said: “We’re so pleased to reveal our exclusive Micro-Fresh® workwear range. “These innovative garments harness leading technology to create scrubs that combine comfort with unique antimicrobial technology that’s proven to kill 99.9% bacteria – even after washing! We know there is the market for them and are confident our customers will appreciate the benefits this garment development bring. It’s been great to build a really positive working relationship with Micro-Fresh® and look forward to that continuing in the future.” Chris Mellor-Dolman, head of marketing & business development at Micro-Fresh®, added: “The move to working with a brand such as Grahame Gardner, who uphold the highest standards of protection and hygiene with products for use in controlled environments, dovetails wholly with our ideology here at Micro-Fresh®. “It’s reassuring to know that Micro-Fresh and Grahame Gardner scrubs are making a significant difference, protecting the health & wellbeing of much-valued medical professionals.” For more information, visit: www.grahamegardner.co.uk/micro-fresh
Eliminate Odours and Sanitise Rooms with MAG Ozone
15 minutes is all it takes to remove bacteria, viruses and unpleasant odours from indoor rooms and spaces. Don’t just mask bad smells, permanently eliminate them with the MAG Room Sanitiser. It’s safe, it’s sustainable, it requires no chemicals, plus it’s quicker and 3,000 times more effective than other cleaning methods. Hygienic indoor air quality is seen as an essential part of every business and we all have a responsibility to look after our staff, visitors, guests and clients. Monkeypox, Covid-19 and other airborne viruses will continue to come and go so regular air purification is important as nobody knows what the future holds. As well as sanitising the air and surfaces in a room, MAG’s sanitising machine guarantees to remove odours however strong including smoke, cooking, alcohol, body odour and incontinence. It’s used by care homes, hotels, pubs, restaurants and thousands of businesses in the UK and across the world. How does it work? Ozone is safely created and destructed within your preferred time frame. Simply wheel the ozone generator into the room that needs sanitising,
Introducing The World’s First Movable Bedpan Disposer ® Panaway M1 It has been great to get back out helping some customers face to face again but we are also aware of ongoing restrictions and the many pressures facing all. Haigh's product development has continued regardless and with the launch of the Panaway M1 mobile bedpan disposal system, the team has also made a virtual 3D version for you to view from your smartphone via the link / QR code below. Bedpans, commode pots, kidney dishes & urine bottles are simply and efficiently disposed using Haigh's proven technology now in an easy to deploy, mobile, plug and play format. Panaway M1 gives unprecedented flexibility when it comes to bringing the infection prevention bene-
fits of disposable medical pulp to your site, as well as the sustainability and cost considerations associated with using very little electricity and no hot water. A perfect solution as an emergency stand-in when a bedpan machine or washer is unavailable or as a cost-effective solution whilst migrating a site to a disposable system. If you or your colleagues have any questions or would like to know more, please feel free to email or call us. For more information about renting, purchasing or a trial of Panaway® M1 contact Michelle Marriot on +44 (0)7500 626463 or email info@haighmed.com or visit www.panaway.com
Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.
plug in the machine, start the cycle, leave the room and when you re-enter you will be pleasantly surprised by the extra fresh fragrance. It’s very simple, completely safe and free product demonstrations are available across the UK. Ask about our 5 star feedback and testimonials. Andrew Morgan, Managing Director of Morgan Care shares “Great sales experience with a pre-order demo and very efficient order & delivery service. Would have no hesitation in recommending MAG Ozone”. For more information contact MAG Ozone Ltd on 01353 883025 or sales@magozone.com Did you know the MAG Group also provides commercial washing machines and tumble dryers? Find out more at www.maglaundryequipment.co.uk (Link: https://maglaundryequipment.co.uk/product/ozone-sanitation/ mag-ozone-generator )
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HYGIENE & INFECTION CONTROL 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. 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.
Why Infection Control Is Just One of the Benefits of Outsourcing Laundry Care homes are facing many challenges, from infection control and Covid, to staff shortages and rising energy costs. Richard Page, UK Head of Care Homes at Elis (uk.elis.com), explains how making a simple change to how laundry is processed can have benefits that extend far beyond infection control. How the laundry is managed can have a bigger impact on the care home than is sometimes realised. It may impact infection control standards and compliance but also staff availability, running costs and capital expenditure, how smoothly the care home can operate, the satisfaction of residents and families, space availability and even the quality of the bedlinen and towels. While traditionally care homes often handled the laundry themselves, many are now recognising the advantages of outsourcing to a specialist, as is the norm in many other sectors, including the NHS and hotels. Here are the top six ways that care homes can benefit from outsourcing to a specialist care home laundry provider, like Elis.
1 – INFECTION CONTROL AND COMPLIANCE It is essential to maintain high standards of infection prevention and control; an important part of care homes’ CQC inspection. However, when laundry is done on site it can be difficult to consistently follow the strict procedures that help prevent cross infection and ensure compliance with the Department of Health’s HTM 01-04 regulation. Requirements such as the full segregation of clean and soiled items, the validation of wash processes and the stringent handling and transportation procedures can sometimes be difficult to maintain, especially when space is limited. Outsourcing to Elis ensures immediate compliance, both now and in the future. With experience of working for hospitals and care homes across the UK and the world, Elis ensures that infection control is built into every process. It is accredited to the highest European standard in infection control (BS EN14065) and expert at laundry compliance, so care homes don’t have to be.
2 – RELIABILITY, SIMPLICITY AND PEACE OF MIND When a care home runs its own laundry it can be hard to avoid machine breakdowns, or even fires, and unexpected staff absences. They all create extra pressure and make it hard to maintain standards. With a network of laundries across the UK, each with multiple state-of-the-art machines, back-up facilities and stock and its own delivery fleet, Elis provides a guaranteed, reliable service, day after
day. The local Elis laundry collects soiled items, hygienically launders and maintains them and returns them to an agreed schedule. Elis uses the latest technology in all aspects of its service, with tiny 2d Barcodes on linens and on special residents’ clothing bags, enabling meticulous tracking of items and meaning lost items are a thing of the past. Residents have their own dedicated bags, into which garments are placed, so Elis knows exactly where each resident’s items are in its fully tracked service.
3 – COST REDUCTION AND CONTROL Using the Elis service can be a more cost effective approach to care home laundry. It can free up care home capital, as there is no equipment or linen to buy and can provide efficiencies and cost savings because Elis operates on an industrial scale and passes savings on to customers. With competitive fixed priced contracts and no risk of unexpected laundry costs, the service also helps with cost control. The usage of linens is tracked to provide complete cost transparency and there is flexibility to adjust quantities if demand changes. Care homes can benefit from taking a look at their in-house laundry costs, including staff, water, electricity, gas, detergent, machine rental and breakdown costs and comparing with the cost of an Elis laundry service.
4 – FREEING UP TIME AND SPACE With staff shortages and illness, outsourcing laundry can also have the benefit of freeing up staff to focus on other tasks. It also significantly reduces the time that management need to focus on laundry. It takes away the hassle and provides a simple, reliable solution. The removal of in-house laundry equipment also frees up space for other activities or even for another bedroom.
5 – HOTEL QUALITY Items are provided on a cost effective rental basis, with no large up-front costs. High quality linen creates the perfect centrepiece for each resident’s room and fluffy white towels create a homely feel. Bed linen and towelling are professionally finished using specialist driers, ironers and folders, to give a hotel-like quality, while every item of residents clothing is carefully washed and fully CQC compliant.
6 – EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY Elis is able to use gas, electricity and water more efficiently than individual homes, and so partnering with Elis means that care homes are choosing a more sustainable approach to laundry. Elis is Carbon Trust accredited and the first laundry and textile services company in the UK to state its intent to attain Net Zero carbon emissions by 2045. Elis partners with thousands of care homes around the world. From small independent homes and hospices to large care villages. Elis provides solutions for linen and residents’ clothing, workwear and uniforms, chefs’ wear, table linen and kitchen cloths. Elis also provides washroom, mats and floorcare services. For a trial without commitment email uk-carehomes@elis.com or call 0808 1969160 or for more information https://uk.elis.com/en/sectors/health-social-care/care-homes
CATERING FOR CARE
An NHS Chef’s Guide to Budget-Friendly, Nutritious, and Delicious Meals
Matt Willis, Co-Head Chef at Clacton Hospital, NHS Property Services (NHSPS) (www.property.nhs.uk) shares insight around the challenges of hospital catering, and how best to manage budgets while cooking delicious and nutritious meals for staff and patients. Catering for hospitals comes with its challenges. It is often a balancing act between having nutritious, healthy meals, while also making sure they are within budget and not wasted. And most importantly, the meals must be enjoyable for patients and staff.
HAVING A SEASONAL MENU A big part of saving money and having a tasty menu is making sure meals are seasonal, freshly made and locally sourced. The patient menu is set by dietitians, so it must be adhered to for patients to get the nutrition they need. One way of ensuring this is cooking food from scratch. This can make a huge improvement to the quality of food. In our hospital, for example, making food from scratch allows us to significantly reduce salt out of the diets and ensuring that there are no pre-made or pre-packaged foods in every meal. Using local suppliers is important, as the produce is fresh, and it is a more sustainable way of picking up ingredients needed for the daily menu. It is also great for altering the menu on the day – whether that is down to weather changes, or we have had requests to change up the menu. Ultimately, it is most important to provide people with the food they want. By going local, this can be done in a budget-friendly and sustainable way.
CATERING FOR EVERY NEED It is important to know who you are cooking for. With so many patients and staff, catering for all comes
with challenges – for example, there are 14 official allergens we need to consider. However, it also encourages creativity and to think more about what people want to and can eat. For example, providing an alternative menu is helpful, such as kosher, allergen-free, or needing softer foods. Ultimately, it is important to keep patients happy.
REDUCING FOOD WASTE Another important part of catering and sticking within budget is reducing food waste. In a hospital, if there are two portions left over on a counter, it cannot be saved for later and unfortunately it goes to waste. To prevent waste, we must consider portion control. This can be challenging as patients need a nutrient rich diet and to feel full for a sustained period of time. Where possible, always aim to prepare smaller portions, and if people are still hungry, recommend a snack like fruit or something to keep them going. In our hospital, I encourage the team to manage portion control – it is a crucial part of our training. Leftovers can encourage you to be fun, creative and make simple foods delicious. Reducing food waste will also have a positive knock-on effect on budget, meaning that money won’t be wasted and can be continued to be spent on getting the best produce. My top tips to reduce food waste and budget are: • Make a fish pie with leftover fish, with a quick sauce and mash potato ready for next day lunch service. • I often put lamb in the slow cooker – if there is any leftover it works well in a lamb salad wrap. • Leftover spaghetti Bolognese works a treat as a topping for jacket potatoes, or chili con carne! I also put it over chips sprinkled with cheese on top under the grill. See our Catering for Care feature on pages 34-37.
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CATERING FOR CARE Carte D’Or Launches The Perfect Base To Create Flavour-Filled Desserts For Your Residents To Enjoy The key to a delicious dessert is the right ingredients. As a chef, you need quality, adaptability, and versatility, to create efficiency in the kitchen and variety on your menu. Carte D’Or have got you covered with all this and more, with their range of powdered dessert bases offering endless possibilities for your dessert menu. Carte D’Or have teamed up with Aaron Watson, Head Chef at Primrose Bank Care Home and winner of the NACC Care Chef Of The Year 2021, to demonstrate just how adaptable, controllable and reliable their range can be. Alongside Executive Chef at Unilever Food Solutions, Alex Hall, Aaron has created a series of recipes that are easy to create and will really impress. These include a refreshing ‘Eaton less Mess’, soft doughnuts, a classic baked Alaska and fruity strawberry ice cream – all made using the Carte D’Or Strawberry Mousse and perfect for a movie night or warm summers day.
Alex and Aaron have used the Carte D’Or Panna Cotta mix to make a rhubarb & custard, black forest, and raspberry panna cotta. All these recipes are quick, simple, and packed full of different flavours – which is ideal when catering to various individuals’ preferences! Aaron commented: “You have to think of each resident as an individual, rather than thinking a dish will be suitable for everybody. You have to personalise it to each person”. Finally, Carte D’Or Crème Brulée is used to make an apple tart, coconut crème caramel and the classic Queen of puddings. The latter utilising leftover ingredients such as breadcrumbs, which are usually seen to go to waste. It’s made in 4 simple steps; just whisk, mould, chill and serve your delicious pudding. The coconut crème caramel is a play on Aaron’s winning dish from the 2021 NACC Care Chef of the Year competition and he highlights the importance of having these exciting dishes for residents: “Obviously, the food we put on the plate is a really important part of the residents’ day to day lives, mealtimes are one of the main times of the day, where all the residents can come together and interact”. To learn more and watch the full recipes visit www.ufs.com/cartedorincare
Food Procurement Experts, allmanhall are Helping Care Caterers Manage Rising Food Costs Here the causes behind significant food inflation and provide advice on practical ways care home catering teams can manage rising costs are explored. “There are wide-ranging reasons why we’re currently experiencing such significant food inflation. Our global food supply chain comes with input cost factors that originate far beyond these shores” explains Oliver Hall, managing director of food procurement experts, allmanhall. The Bank of England has revised its projections upwards, predicting that inflation will now peak at 10% towards the end of 2022. Upward pressure is expected this autumn as energy prices rise again and the full impact of harvest yields globally, and more specifically in Ukraine and Russia, become known. allmanhall’s apply such insight and understanding to managing suppliers, thus supporting care home catering teams with their food purchasing in these challenging times. As well as expert negotiations to mitigate the price increases and risk associated with food inflation, allmanhall’s hands-on, experienced consultants are able to offer care homes practical advice. Coping strategies are key, addressing the things you can control:
- Select the purchasing approach that brings your care home maximum benefit - Undertake range management - Reduce your care home’s cost to serve - Increase your delivery values (add non-food items to your order) - Multi- and upskill your catering team - Reduce waste wherever possible - Review the efficiency of your equipment - Consider your care home’s menus and recipes - Review product specifications. These steps will enable your catering budgets and food purchases to go as far as possible. To learn more, go to https://allmanhall.co.uk/webinars Rachael Venditti from allmanhall will be talking on the topic of Food Inflation at the Care Home and Hospital Catering Forum in Haberdashers Hall, London on 13 June.
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CATERING FOR CARE
Anglia Crown – Looking To Make Your Lives Easier As the better weather approaches it is perhaps a time that we can start to look forward again. Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit us all, those in the care sector have been at the forefront of the fight and Anglia Crown salute each and everyone of you who have been providing the best service you could throughout the crisis. Anglia Crown has been there beside you and will remain there to help you keep your residents happy and well fed. Whilst the company maintained a rapid response team to react quickly to their customers’ needs during the crisis, they also allowed time to step back and see how best they could improve their offer for the care sector and beyond. The company was also keen to recognise their 30th anniversary of championing choice with the release of their 2022 range of products. The range includes Crown Choice and Crown Advantage meals available frozen, with Crown Crown Choice also available as chilled products. Company Dietitian, Ruth Smith, comments: “Whenever we update our product range, we always look to reflect current trends. There is a definite move towards plant-based foods which we have considered in these menus, which we believe will prove to be very popular.” The company now offers over 70 vegan and vegetarian dishes, many have been accredited with the Vegan Society. This approach led to the company being named a Veggie
Wholesaler of the Year. Another one of the initiatives was to create a menu cycle that can be readily adopted by any care setting, with the knowledge that the menu is nutritionally balanced and has been approved by a professional dietitian. The two-week cycle offers something for everyone. Where a bulk service is required for resident dining, they have it covered, a similar menu using Crown Advantage dishes can be similarly employed. The specially designed menu is cost effective, as it has already considered the financial balancing that is always required in our sector and just as importantly, it also helps with any staffing issues that you might encounter, allowing properly trained Care Assistants to help with the complete delivery of the meals to your residents. Mary Wedge, Business Development Manager at Anglia Crown concludes; “We needed to take fast action during the crisis, which led to a huge shift in thinking that has ensured that we could fully support our industry during this difficult period and beyond, whilst continuing to deliver on our vision – in driving excellence in residential and care home catering.” The new range is now available. Visit www.angliacrown.co.uk for further details.
TME’s Colour Coded CA2005 Temporary Catering Facilities For Events & Kitchen Refurbishments Thermometer Range Ensuring that you have hygienic equipment in the kitchen and catering area can be easily achieved with TME’s colour coded CA2005 thermometer range. We all understand the importance of equipment which is easy to clean and hygienic especially where food is cooked and prepared. It is also important to ensure that the equipment you have is accurate to avoid any risk of food being undercooked. Our solution is the CA2005 thermometer and probe range, featuring our high accuracy CA2005 thermometer and a choice of up to 6 colour coded dishwasher-proof temperature probes to help you avoid cross contamination. Our CA2005-P kit, which
includes both thermometer and probe, can be picked up for a little as £65 and our CA2005-PK kit with thermometer and all 6 probes is only £125. You can be sure you’re making the right purchase as all TME products are British built and our thermometers come with our Thermometer for Life pledge which means that you will never have to pay more than £35.00 to have the thermometer repaired or replaced. See our products at www.tmethermometers.com or contact us on (01903) 700651 sales@tmethermometers.com for further details. TME – When temperature matters
Mobile Kitchens Ltd specialises in the hire or sale of temporary catering facilities and foodservice equipment. Ideal for events or to provide temporary catering facilities during your kitchen refurbishment, our versatile units and equipment offer an efficient and economic solution to the caterers’ needs. Production Kitchens, Preparation Kitchens, Warewashing Units, Dry Store Units, Cold Rooms and Restaurant Units are available as individual units in their own right or they can be linked together on site to form a complete complex. Alternatively, we can offer modular, open-plan facilities, usually for larger, longer-term hires. We offer a free design service, and project management from concept through to delivery and installation on site, plus full technical support throughout the hire period. The standard specification of our smallest
Production Kitchen unit includes a six burner oven range, salamander grill, twin basket fryer, upright fridge, hot cupboard, single bowl sink unit with integral hand wash basin, plus ample power points to plug in Microwaves, Food Processors, Toasters etc. Internal equipment can be interchanged and clients can effectively specify their preferred layout. We have many tried and tested design layouts and would be pleased to put forward our recommendations for your project. So if you’re planning a refurbishment or need to cater for an event then why not give us a call and we’ll be happy to provide advice and put forward a competitive proposal. For further information or to arrange a site visit, email: sales@mk-hire.co.uk or call us on 0345 812 0800, or visit our website: www.mk-hire.co.uk
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NURSE CALL AND FALLS MONITORING Silent Running Fall Savers - Affordable Fall Monitoring Solutions Tranquility in Care Homes 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.
TO ADVERTISE IN THE CARER CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM TODAY ON 01202 552333 OR EMAIL SALES@THECARERUK.COM
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 separate 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
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 37
NURSE CALL AND FALLS MONITORING
Medpage Falls Management Products Medpage T/A Easylink UK have manufactured and distributed fall prevention and detection products for over 25 years. We specialise in products for one-to-one care, or small groups in a Care Home or Hospital. Our systems are robust, easy to set up and use, and have a proven track record in helping to reduce falls, in domestic and professional care establishments. How can they help reduce falls? Many falls occur when a person at risk from falls leaves their bed or chair, particularly during the night. By detecting an exit from the bed or chair early a carer or guardian gains time to attend and help the person, usually preventing the fall.
WHAT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE
Medpage supply a diverse range of equipment for detecting bed and chair exit. There are for example, simple bed alarms, chair alarms, or multiple use products for combining bed and chair monitoring, to allow the person to move from their bed to their chair. There are systems that use a cabled pressure mat sensor connected to an alarm controller, or pressure mat sensors with a self-contained alarm transmitter to signal a radio pager. Carer alarm notifications can be by a single or multiple user pager or alarm receiver, or an external alarm device. You can find out more on the advert on page 11 or at www.easylinkuk.co.uk/product/ product-fall-detection
Nurse Alert Mats Designed to combat the problem of residents who are inclined to walk undetected, the Nurse Alert Mat can help protect residents especially at night that are at risk of falls and accidents. When connected to a Nurse Call system or the mobile Floor Sentry Monitor it will then alert staff, sounding the alarm with a small amount of pressure thus enabling staff to investigate.
• Nurse Call Systems • Fire Alarm Systems • Door Access • Staff Attack • CCTV • Infection Control • Dementia Care • Electrical Contracting
Lotus Care Technology The NurseAlert pressure mat has been one of the most successful floor pressure mats due to it being non slip and carpeted which makes it feel very natural under a residents foot. Lotus Care Technology Ltd have many other fall saving devices that can give you peace of mind whilst caring for this at risk of falls. Having many years of experience in fitting and
maintaining Nurse Call Systems helps the guys at Lotus Care Technology understand that every home is different and has different needs. They can specify not only the best system for the environmental factors in the home but also take into consideration the best products that will make your carers and nurses jobs that little bit easier. Visit www.lctuk.com for details.
In addition The Floor Pressure Mat has a heavy non slip backing, It comes professionally sealed so can easily be cleaned for liquid spills and is fully serviceable.
INCLUDES A 12 MONTH GUARANTEE
sales@lctuk.com 0800 8499 121 www.LCTUK.com
www.nursecallsystems.co.uk
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 39
TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE Log my Care’s New Research Reveals The Sentiment In The Social Care Sector and Technology’s Place In Its Future
Log my Care has revealed the results of new research – The future of care: an analysis of job satisfaction and technology in social care. Prompted by the reports of a sector in crisis, Log my Care disseminated a survey to better understand the sentiment of the social care workforce, if an exodus of care workers leaving the sector on the horizon and how technology can support them to stay. The survey identified a workforce that was predominantly happy in their role. Reflecting these high levels of happiness in their jobs, only a small minority of respondents said they wanted to leave the care sector: • Respondents had an average happiness ranking of 7.9 in which 1 was ‘very unhappy’ and 10 ‘very happy’.
• Those in senior management roles appeared to be more satisfied (8.9) compared to those in frontline roles (8.2) or management positions (7.7). • Only 4% of respondents said they wanted to leave the care sector. Findings from the survey also revealed a workforce that is drawn to the sector for altruistic reasons: • 81% of respondents said that ‘purpose’ was ‘very important’ to them in their role, the most popular response from a predefined list. • ‘Knowing that the job was done well’ was the most popular type of reward for respondents (56% selected this as their first choice) compared to a quarter (24%) selecting ‘money’. • 83% of respondents reported that ‘passion for caring for others’ attracted them to the care sector, while more than three-quarters (77%) selected ‘making a difference’ as a reason. • Factors connected to their own benefits were less important. With ‘personal development' (61%) and ‘career development’ (45%) bringing up the rear. However, the stressors of the pandemic have exacerbated some of the unpleasant factors associated with working in social care: • Just under half (45%) of respondents reported that the ‘workload’ was the factor they disliked most about their role. • 37% disliked their ‘work-life balance’ and 14% were unhappy with their ‘level of responsibility’. When asked how digital they felt their workplace was already: • The majority (59%) said their workplace was a beginner when it came to digital with a long way to go. • One-third of all respondents felt they were 'digital experts' (33%), using digital solutions in most aspects of their work, and only 9% identified as
complete novices. There’s a positive sentiment towards the digitalisation of social care: • Two-thirds of respondents (67%) said they were 'super excited' about the increasing digitisation of the sector. • Three-quarters of respondents (76%) felt that the care industry needs to become more digital. Sam Hussain, Founder and CEO of Log my Care, comments, “The reports of the care sector in crisis are at odds with the incredible dedication and optimism voiced by many of our customers in our daily conversations. We wanted to dig a little deeper with this research — to understand the sentiment in the sector, why so many people were leaving it and what place technology has in supporting them to stay. Although we were surveying an industry clearly in crisis, the passion and commitment of the people working in it is a light in the dark. We know it’s time for a change – with low pay, long hours and a lack of employee development coming up time and time again as the reasons our care staff are leaving. Technology can play a vital role in this change and by encouraging even the smallest care provider to go digital, we can begin to combat some of the problems highlighted by this survey.” Scan this QR code to read Log my Care’s full report or read it online at https://tinyurl.com/4pxdfxex
‘Work Smarter’ To Tackle Care Recruitment Crisis, Advises Bizimply The recruitment crisis continues to hit care homes hard. According to the latest ONS figures, to 31 March this year, vacancies in the health & social work sector, which includes care, stood at 216,000 – a 6.5% increase on the previous quarter and massive 65% up on the previous year. Care home owners and managers are learning how to run their business with a staff vacancy rate that is here to stay for a while. Conor Shaw, CEO at workforce management specialists Bizimply, says: “Tackling the staffing crisis means ensuring your teams are working not harder, but smarter. “Technology such as ours can be really helpful, allowing managers to create staff rotas and payroll easily and quickly, so they can spend more time with their teams, which raises morale and motivation. It can also reduce the
Vayyar Imaging Secures $108M in Series E Funding Led by Koch Disruptive Technologies Vayyar Imaging, a global leader in 4D imaging radar, has announced that it has finalized a USD 108 million Series E financing round led by Koch Disruptive Technologies (KDT), bringing the company’s total funding to over USD 300 million. The new round includes first-time Vayyar backers GLy Capital Management and Atreides Management LP, alongside existing investors including KDT, Battery Ventures, Bessemer Ventures, More VC, Regal Four, and Claltech. To support investor outreach in China, Vayyar engaged China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC) as its lead financial adviser. Founded with a vision of detecting early-stage breast cancer using RF technology, Vayyar has since
expanded its business into senior care, automotive, retail, public safety and other industries. The company provides solutions powered by its leading-edge system-on-chip, proprietary software stack, and breakthrough Machine Learning algorithms. In the automotive space, Vayyar manufactures 4D imaging radar-based platforms that transform safety across the in-cabin, ADAS and motorcycle (ARAS) domains. The company’s ARAS platform is in mass production for deployment on Piaggio Group’s motorbikes, providing exceptional safety for the world’s most at-risk road users. Vayyar has also secured supply contracts with automakers from Japan and Vietnam and is in advanced engagements with almost every other OEM and supplier for both in-cabin and ADAS. In senior care, the company offers Vayyar Care, a unique remote monitoring solution, integrated with the world’s leading nurse call systems, that protects the aging population with automatic fall detection and data that drives predictive behavioral analytics. Vayyar recently signed a Joint Venture agreement with Haier subsidiary HCH Ventures, leveraging its senior care technology to address the 4 trillion yuan (625B USD) “silver tech” market in China. Vayyar has also established a large-scale partnership with Amazon for remote health, safety and security monitoring. "KDT is excited to help further Vayyar’s vision to improve the health and safety of people’s lives at a global scale,” said Brett Chugg, senior managing director of KDT. “Their 4D imaging technology is transforming the medical, smart home, elderly care, and automotive markets here in the U.S. and around the world. We look forward to helping accelerate their continued growth.”
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reliance on agency staff to fill the gaps. “The other benefit is that managers can give staff members their shift patterns further in advance, putting an end to last-minute requests to work. Improving your employees’ work-life balance can go a long way to making them feel more valued in their job and less likely to leave.” Shaw adds: “Nobody chooses a career in care to spend hours on administration. By automating routine tasks, care home managers and staff can concentrate on doing what they love - caring for residents.” A growing number of care homes across the UK and Ireland are now using Bizimply’s software to create staff rotas, payroll and more. To find out more: https://www.bizimply.com/health-care/
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 41
TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE Vayyar Imaging Secures $108M in Series E Funding Led by Koch Disruptive Technologies (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39) After opening new offices in five additional territories, including Japan and China, Vayyar will continue to expand its activities across numerous verticals and introduce a family of Machine Learning-enabled imaging solutions that are being integrated with the world’s leading smart building, robotics, retail and public safety solutions. "We are pleased and proud to progress our partnership with existing investors including KDT, as well as additional backers which are joining forces with us for the first time,” said Raviv Melamed, co-founder and CEO of Vayyar Imaging. "During a challenging period for the global economy, this new funding round is a ringing endorsement of our mission and a clear vote of confidence in the strength of our technology and the strate-
gic agility of our organization.” With a strong sales pipeline and a world-class patent portfolio, Vayyar will continue cementing its leadership in core verticals, expanding its activities in additional industries, and increasing its physical presence across the Americas, EMEA and East Asia. About Koch Disruptive Technologies Koch Disruptive Technologies (KDT) is a unique investment firm, partnering with principled entrepreneurs who are building transformative companies. KDT provides a flexible, multi-stage investment approach. KDT works with companies that can help Koch transform its capabilities, disrupt existing businesses or expand into new platforms. KDT is a subsidiary of Koch Industries, one of the largest privately held companies in
the world, with estimated revenues exceeding $125 billion and presence in over 70 countries. KDT helps its partners unlock their full potential by bringing Koch's full capabilities and network to them, structuring unique capital solutions and embracing a long-term, mutual benefit mindset. About Vayyar Imaging Vayyar, the global leader in 4D imaging radar, supplies the world’s most advanced radar-on-chip platforms to gather life’s essential data, providing solutions for senior care, automotive, security, smart home, robotics, and more, while maintaining privacy at all times. Vayyar’s mission is to deliver the next generation of sensing technology that is miniature, affordable, and versatile enough to impact everyone’s lives, enabling a safer world. Visit www.vayyar.com to learn more.
Cloud Finance Software That is Helping Care Homes Thrive Healthcare organisations face unique challenges from cost containment and multi-entity reporting to new billing models and product offerings and a cloudbased accounting system allows you to better understand your organisation and succeed in the future. At Sage Intacct, we’re passionate about building accounting software that helps you better understand your business, maintain compliance, and succeed in the ever-evolving healthcare industry.
BUILT FOR HEALTHCARE
As healthcare grows in complexity, so does your organisation. You’re managing multiple locations and practices, navigating changing reimbursement methods, and initiating cost reduction initiatives, while manual processes are draining your productivity. You need insight into your growing breadth of financial and operational data, and we’ve built our healthcare accounting software with you in mind. We provide compliant financials with continuous consolidation across multiple offices, practices and locations. Sage Intacct healthcare customers have increased profitability by 30% with better insight for informed decisions, realised 25% improvement in efficiency gains, and taken departmental reporting
from 10 days to 10 minutes.
REAL-TIME VISIBILITY AND INSIGHTS Sage Intacct’s real-time reporting allows you to understand and measure performance for both financial metrics and operational outcomes. Because every transaction in the system can be tagged with dimensions, finance professionals can sort, view, filter, and report on the specific information they need. With greater insight, our healthcare customers have reduced board budget reporting from three weeks to one hour and have improved revenues by 25% without adding additional headcount.
TRUE CLOUD TECHNOLOGY WITH OPEN API True cloud technology with open API As an innovator in the cloud space, Sage Intacct’s multi-tenant, true cloud foundation brings robust technology infrastructure to your organisation, without the high costs of managing servers. Our open API lets you connect to existing systems or those you are considering in the future. This means you can leverage key data from electronic medical records, payroll, budget, CRMs (including Salesforce), and other systems to track key performance indicators. For more information on how Sage can help your business please visit: www.sage.com/en-gb/cp/intacct-carehomes/
Keep VIPs Safe at Home and Safe away from Home Button and box have been the traditional method of keeping Vulnerable Independent People (VIPs) safe at home, however, by continuing to install them in homes, you are inadvertently telling VIPs that they are only safe at home. Oysta have developed telecare devices for VIPs to stay safe as they maintain an active lifestyle and passive sensors in the home to enable preventative care. VIPs should be encouraged to pursue an active lifestyle as movement is medicine. VIPs that remain physically active for longer are less likely to decline as quickly as they would if they are housebound. Our Oysta devices and sensors link into our care platform, IntelliCare™. IntelliCare positions the care circle to provide preventative care as they receive insights and notifications when their VIPs activity falls outside of normal parameters. Likewise, in the case of an emergency, the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) has a full picture of the VIPs activity and location. We are looking forward to showcasing our services to visitors at the Care and Occupational
Therapy Show in Exeter on 21 June. We are speaking at the show on ‘Movement is Medicine.’ Natasha Salway will show how mobile technology can play a big part in enabling VIPs to remain physically active for longer and providing them a safety net if their condition deteriorates. Natasha will demonstrate how technology can remove isolation boundaries and cover how to ensure VIPs can be safe at home, or in a care home when pursuing an active lifestyle. Natasha has hands-on experience of assistive technology, how it can benefit vulnerable adults, their families, and carers. She worked in Adult Social Care for 18 years, 14 years, specifically within the TEC, Assistive Technology and Telecare field. Visit us at Stand 188 at the Care and Occupational Therapy Show, Westpoint Arena, Exeter 21st June 2022 for a free demonstration or if you’d like to speak sooner, get in touch today on 01295 530 101. See the advert on the facing page for further details.
PAGE 42 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
TECHNOLOGY & SOFTWARE The Access Group Launches Support For New Care Providers With Care Foundations Access Health, Support & Care, a division of The Access Group, has launched Care Foundations, new software packages to support start-up home care providers in implementing the digital solutions they need to register, establish and grow their business. Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid previously announced £150 million of funding to support digitisation in social care, with the aim for 80 per cent of social care providers to be using digital care records by March 2024. Used by many of the UK’s leading care providers, Care Foundations is part of the Access care management software suite that helps new and growing care providers register and develop their business. The solution is designed to help home care businesses seamlessly integrate specialist health and social care technology into their day-to-day processes. Ranging from essential to premium, the three bespoke packages include information on various aspects, including policies and procedures, recruitment, and care plans. Steve Sawyer, managing director, Access Health and Social Care, explained that this platform would be a perfect introduction to digitisation. He said: “Access Care Foundations will make the road to implementing digital processes much easier for new and growing care providers. This tool supports the vision of the recent announcement from Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid and will make that transition to digitising care records much easier. “Providing the best possible quality of care is clearly the main priority for providers. The aim of this tool is to simplify
Intelligent Care Software (ICS) If you are looking for a care management system which answers all of your quality, monitoring and compliance needs, then looks no further than Care is. Care is provides the intelligent software solution for care home and domiciliary care managers and owners looking to roll all of their care and management functions into one electronic platform. We know this to be true because unlike some other CMS’s Care is was conceived, designed, built and is managed by nurses, registered managers and care home owners.
establishing a business as well as provide a space to continue elevating current processes with support and guidance. Each package has different options that can cater to different levels of care, this means there is always an option for each provider depending on their business needs. “If we have learned anything from the past few years, it’s that technology has massive potential to continue to innovate the health and social care sector. Moving forward it’s clear to say that this will become the norm for home care providers. It’s important we continue to create safer and seamless healthcare processes and we believe that can be done with technology.” Access is currently offering exclusive discounts of up to 25% on Access Care Foundations for new start-ups and unregistered providers only pay for what they need to get registered. Each package is on an integrated system and contains tools which can monitor and improve care quality. For care providers who might be unfamiliar with specific protocols and regulations, this tool provides peace of mind knowing experts are on hand to help. For more information visit www.theaccessgroup.com/carefoundations
The ‘CARE is’ suite includes care and support, care planning platform, our policy app with over 200 high quality policies which are updated regularly and which also includes our supervision, appraisals and training record apps and our audit app which templates all the essential audits and includes a record of inspection visits. At Care is we can get you started on your journey from paper or another care management system with minimum fuss, plenty of support and all for what we believe to be good value for money. With eMAR, mandatory training and a complementary care certificate coming in 2022, there has never been a better time to get on board. https://careis.net
PAGE 44 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
FINANCE, TRAINING & RECRUITMENT
W&P Training W&P Training supply comprehensive sets of CQC care policies and procedures that are personalised to your business. Whether it’s Residential Care Homes, Domiciliary Homecare, Nursing Homes, Learning Disabilities or Supported Living – We cover it all.
RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME POLICIES Are Your Current Policies Up To Date? There have been many recent changes to employment law, vaccinations, covid-19 guidance plus the CQC’s new strategy and regulatory approach. W&P’s team track these changes for you to ensure customers receive up to date CQC compliant documents.
DOMILICIARY HOMECARE POLICIES Over 130 comprehensive Domiciliary Care Policies and Procedures for Homecare /
Domiciliary Based Services that are researched and written to meet all the CQC regulatory, legislative and good practice guidance within the Health and Social Care sector.
CLINICAL PROCEDURES FOR NURSING HOMES CQC compliance for new and established Nursing Homes. W&P’s clinical procedures include 70 comprehensive and up-to-date documents for your nursing home. These clinical procedures complement our full set of Care Home Policies and Procedures.
SUPORTED LIVING / LEARNING DISABILITIES POLICIES Designed for Supported Living and Domiciliary providers that deliver CQC regulated activities to adults with Learning Disabilities and/ or Autism. W&P’s Policies and Procedures for Supported Living Services will assist with your CQC compliance. Looking for Supported living Policies with NO Personal Care? Visit https://www.wandptraining.co.uk/policies-and-procedures/non-registered-carepolicies/ W&P’s policy and compliance team are constantly scanning and reviewing all the statutory websites and regulatory publications to track the very latest developments in the Health & Social Care Sector. Policies and Procedures are updated every 4 months or immediately if there is a critical change to regulation, good practice guidance, case law outcomes or just feedback from customers. To find out more about what we offer go to www.wandptraining.co.uk or see the advert on page 2.
Workforce Challenge - The Eden Alternative – A Modern, Proven Model of Care for Staff and Resident Wellbeing WHY DO THIS? The Eden model, is built on what people say they want, in a Home or a workplace, which therefore attracts residents and team members alike. As an Eden Home builds its reputation upon the quality of life it offers to the people that reside there, it follows that occupancy improves. As a programme that empowers staff and focuses on their wellbeing, It follows that staff retention improves. With a positive culture, a motivated and dedicated workforce, It follows that positive innovation becomes more possible, sustainable and continuous.
When demand for services increase, it follows that viability improves. As a cohesive cultural progression programme, it follows that innovation, modernisation and positivity increase. The model is efficient, cost effective and the training is delivered by experienced practitioners in Care Homes. Homes are very busy places, and the programme is therefore run on line for 1 hour per week for 6 weeks, and people can do this at work or at home. The 6 weekly sessions are run online, with a workbook, with links for further optional reading or viewing and should not be a burden to busy Homes, teams and managers. It is however effective. You can try without obligation.
It is designed to make business sense to providers. It is designed to enhance viability. It is designed to support recruitment and retention. It is designed to motivate Care teams and is open to any individual to add their CV.
WHAT IS IT. It is a training programme which leads to accreditation and focuses in detail on 7 domains of wellbeing, 10 principles, and is particularly designed to address instances of loneliness, helplessness and boredom.
Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.
An inspiring approach to care As experienced Care Home practitioners we provide training to care home teams in sustainable innovation and positive leadership that empowers people to embed companionship, partnership working and vibrancy to build enriched quality of life into care homes. Develop a culture of care with wellbeing and positive relationships at its heart, with our 6 week online training programme. Discover how to replace loneliness, helplessness and boredom with wellbeing, companionship, and meaningful activities, in just one hour of training a week. Validated Eden Alternative associates can benefit from continuing support from our expert team.
Sign up today and join the care evolution
Call today on 01626 868192 or visit www.eden-alternative.co.uk
Geoffrey Cox The Eden Alternative
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 45
FINANCE, TRAINING & RECRUITMENT ELGee Specialists In The Training of Elderly Care and Those with Learning Disabilities ELGee Training can provide various training courses for people who work in the Health & Social Care sector. ELGee Training is a local company with over 20 years of experience managing of and training in residential homes, care homes and domiciliary care organisations for the elderly and for those with a learning disability. ELGee Training provides up to date and current information for your workforce based on the requirements of the regulating authorities, and all courses are delivered by qualified trainers. ELGee Training will write and deliver tailor made courses for your requirements, and could be courses that run ½ days or all day.
WITH THE ELDERLY IN MIND Courses aimed at our elderly carers, with courses ranging from Dementia Awareness to Moving and Handling. Assisted Living Training caregivers to provide assistance with medication management, activities of daily living, engaging and coordination.
SPECIALIST TRAINING TEAM Specialists in the training of elderly care and those with learning disabilities. For more information on our courses or to arrange a consultation with one of our training facilitators then please do not hesitate to contact us on 023 9237 3857 | 079 4994 0860 or visit www.elgeetraining.co.uk
Skills, Knowledge, and Confidence Delivered Online Covid19 reminded us all just how important the NHS and care home staff are to our society. We are grateful for their hard work and bravery, and feel honoured to support them through our Laser Care Certificate course and CPD short courses. 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. Whether you are an owner, manager, or independent learner, please don't hesitate to get in touch for a free demo of the Care Certificate course platform, and/or the CPD short course offering. The Laser Learning team can be contacted on info@lasersys.co.uk or +44 (0)1753 584 112.
Specialists in the training of elderly care and those with learning disabilities Our quality health and social care training services include. • Moving & Handling • Dementia & Epilepsy Awareness • Risk Assessments ELGee Training provides up to date and current information for your
• Health & Safety Awareness
workforce based on the requirements of the regulating authorities. We will write and deliver tailor made courses for your requirements, and these could be courses that run ½ days or the full day.
• Medication Overview & Infection Overview • Personal Centred Plans & Much More…
Our courses are second to none...
023 9237 3857 | 079 4994 0860 www.elgeetraining.co.uk
PAGE 46 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105
FINANCE, TRAINING & RECRUITMENT
In Dire Need Of Experienced Health Care Assistant, Senior Carer Or A Nurse? JJ Recruitment has the large database of well qualified applicants with experience in the healthcare industry, such as health care assistants, senior carers, and nurses from overseas. We also have an expert team of solicitors for the necessary legal proceedings and advices.
WHY JJ?
• We have very minimal processing fees. • We assist you to get a sponsorship license. • Qualified and experienced candidates from overseas. Tel: 01704 809756 www.jjcarerecruitment.co.uk admin@jjrecruitment.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
Please Please mention mention THE THE CARER CARER when when responding responding to to advertising. advertising.
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
THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 105 | PAGE 47
INSURANCE FOR CARE
Is Your Care Home At Risk From Underinsurance? They also noted that one in four firms had not made a material change to at least one Sum Insured in the last four years. The Sum Insured is the maximum amount of money that your insurance company could pay out in the event of a covered loss. With costs increasing in the construction industry, in raw materials as well as labour, checking your building sum insured is a great place to start.
CONSIDER BUSINESS INTERRUPTION COVER
A recent article, written by Aviva, one of our insurer partners has highlighted some startling figures on commercial insurance among businesses in the UK. Whilst your insurance may not be held by Aviva, the risks identified are likely to be reflected across many organisations and could be relevant to you and your care home. You might not be aware, but underinsurance is often seen amongst small to medium sized businesses, and the pandemic has only intensified the threat. The reason for this is that to ensure long term survival, many businesses made changes to their operating models, which have not been reflected in their insurance cover. According to Aviva’s data¹, only 20% of small and medium businesses had their policies changed in line with their new business models. This could mean that in the event of a claim, they may not receive the appropriate level of cover they now require, putting their business at unnecessary risk.
ARE YOUR SUMS INSURED AT THE RIGHT LEVEL?
Further, they identified that 40% of clients with Business Interruption insurance did not have an adequately set indemnity period. This is the maximum length of time your insurance company is obligated to make payments to cover the losses insured under the policy. When the maximum indemnity period has been reached, then claim payments will cease. Business Interruption insurance covers your operational costs in the event of a crisis. If your business suffered a total loss claim, you need to consider how long you would need the cover to last whilst you rebuild or relocate. As a care home owner or operator, following a total loss event, the cover period required is likely to be long, as you’ll need to rebuild or refurbish your property. You will also need to relocate your residents whilst this is happening, which may also result in a temporary change in staffing and supplier requirements. When cover is not reviewed regularly and doesn’t reflect new operating models, your business may be at an increased risk from gaps in cover and underinsurance.
what’s right for your business, bringing you peace of mind. We’re here to help you and your business succeed.
Barnes Commercial Insurance Broker 01480 272727 enquiries@barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk www.barnesinsurancebroker.co.uk
IS IT TIME TO REVIEW YOUR INSURANCE? There is no time like the present to take some time to review your insurance cover levels. With so much economic uncertainty driven by the pandemic and Brexit, we would advise making sure your risk management plans are firmly in place, which includes adequate insurance. You should talk to an experienced broker who can help you to take a look at the bigger picture and ensure that you have the right insurance in place for your specific needs. As an independent commercial broker, with access to a wide panel of A rated insurers, we can advise on
¹ Data is based on Aviva held small to medium sized business, excluding fleet November 2021 – modelling 80% of the account and extrapolating the total.
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
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Exceptional service from a dedicated account executive
Let us help you to protect your business with a no obligation risk review today!
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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.