PAGE 18 | THE CARER DIGITAL | ISSUE 174
How Technology Can Support Building Management Penny Brinsley, account director, Service Works Global discusses how technology can support care home estate teams to manage their building more efficiently while reducing costs at the same time. HOW TECHNOLOGY CAN SUPPORT BUILDING MANAGEMENT Recent research from Savills has highlighted the challenges facing the care sector. There are 3.4 million people in the UK over 80 years old, and this will increase by 32 per cent in the next decade. There will inevitably be growing demand for spaces in care homes. Staff will need to dedicate their time to providing comfortable, safe environments for residents and visitors. The way an estate is managed will have a big part to play, so ensuring this can be done in a more efficient way will be crucial as demand for beds increases. Poorly maintained estates can cause big problems – what if the heating system suddenly fails during the winter months? There is also a financial concern, as non-compliance can lead to large fines.
HOW TECHNOLOGY CAN DRIVE EFFICIENCY The technology is there now to support building managers. In many cases, it’s a case of determining what tech you need and how it will integrate with other systems. Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) systems offer a variety of functionalities and can be adapted depending on the needs of different estates. Some of the key features include: • Reactive and planned maintenance scheduling: Maintenance tasks can be scheduled and tracked with ease. • Asset lifecycle management: CAFM systems track the lifecycle of assets so users can plan for replacements or upgrades. Systems can also include maintenance history and warranty documents so that engineers have all the information they need in one place. This also helps with compliance. • Mobile apps: Operatives and contractors can access critical asset and building information on the move, from any location, improving the efficiency of operations. • SLA and multi-contract management: CAFM systems help streamline multiple service contracts, ensuring that service providers are aligned with appropriate deliverables and reducing costs.
• Visitor check-in services: Systems can record visitor data and improve the security of care homes. • Self-service for residents and contractors: Issues can be reported and addressed at the touch of a button, with all communications recorded in the system.
AI FOR PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE Some CAFM systems are now using AI and machine learning to power predictive maintenance. For example, AI-enabled software can predict and prevent breakdowns by analysing historical data on past asset failures, services, and maintenance. Operatives only need to spend time and resources on an asset when necessary, instead of on a set schedule. Estate teams can use their time more productively and budgets are more accurate. AI and sensors can integrate with other building systems, such as HVAC and lighting, to optimise their operation. Smart systems only need to run when required, which can make a big reduction in energy consumption. This proactive approach reduces asset downtime, lowers maintenance costs, and ensures the uninterrupted functioning of critical systems in care homes.
STARTING THE TECH JOURNEY With a strategic approach, CAFM systems and AI can be a valuable tool for building managers. To get buy in, make sure its use aligns with the overall operational goals of an organisation and have a plan for the ongoing use and development of systems. As already mentioned, it’s critical that any new tech integrates and complements existing systems. Users will also need to be trained to varying degrees. An estate manager will need full use of the system, while a carer might just need to know how to submit work requests. Data security is a non-negotiable, so make sure any system has robust data security measures in place. Stay in regular conversation with your provider to stay on top of security, as well as any other system updates that need to be addressed. The best time to start integrating tech into estate management is now, but don’t rush in until you are ready to make a strong case. Once underway, the benefits will speak for themselves through fewer asset failures, reduced costs and improved compliance – and most importantly, a safer care home.
Outwood Named Social Care Service of the Year A care service from Leeds is celebrating after scooping the top prize of Social Care Service of the Year at a health and social care awards ceremony. Outwood, is Horsforth, is a specialist residential service for adults. It provides outcome focused care for individuals with learning disabilities and associated complex needs who may have behaviours that challenge. It scooped the top prize of Social Care Service of the Year at the Cygnet Group Achievement Awards. Cygnet Group is a leading provider of health and social care services for young people and adults with mental health needs, acquired brain injuries, eating disorders, autism and learning disabilities within the UK. Held last year for the first time, the Cygnet Group Achievement Awards is open to 11,000 staff across Healthcare, Social Care and Support Services, to honour colleagues across all departments and job roles who go above and beyond to ensure service users receive the highest quality care. All winners were presented with their awards by former England cricketer, Marcus Trescothick, who was guest of honour at the event. Marcus kick-started the event by talking to the 280-strong staff audience about the mental health struggles he had experienced throughout his playing career. Gareth Williams, CEO of Cygnet Social Care said: “The team at Outwood work incredibly hard to provide care for their 10 amazing residents. The home has a brilliant atmosphere which makes everyone feel safe and supported. “Most residents are non-verbal and many have very strict routines so the team works hard to give them
Violet Home Care Ltd. WHO ARE WE? We are an established domiciliary care agency in the UK. We understand that many individuals would prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes, rather than moving into a care facility. That's why we offer a range of home care services, tailored to meet the unique needs and prefer-ences of each client.
OUR SERVICES: Our team of compassionate caregivers are trained to provide a range of services, from assistance with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing, to managing medication and providing specialized care for those with dementia or other health conditions. We work closely with each client and their family to develop a personalized care plan, designed to meet their specific needs and goals.
opportunities to live full and interesting lives. Each resident continues to thrive and meet their goals. A spokesperson for Outwood said: “It’s a very hard working service, we have a great team with great service users and it is such a blessing to work with everyone. “There is an amazing blend of individuals who come from different parts of the world, have different experiences and we all work together, we pull together and collaborate. Everybody is united by the common goal of making the service the very best it can be and we are all motivated to keep pushing ahead and doing the best we can for our incredible residents.” Dr Tony Romero, CEO of Cygnet Health Care, said: “These awards are incredibly uplifting, hearing the countless stories about how so many of our staff have provided life-changing care and support. “The entire Outwood team consistently goes above and beyond for the individuals in our care. They demonstrate passion for their work, commitment to excellence, and an unwavering dedication to our service users. “Cygnet has a proud, 35-year history of providing quality care to some of society’s most vulnerable. From the very beginning, back in 1988, it has been the caring nature of our staff who have played the greatest role in ensuring we change lives for the better. Their hard work and dedication are the foundation of our success, and I am proud to work alongside such exceptional individuals and teams. They really do go above and beyond to give our service users hope of a brighter future.”
OUR VALUES: We believe in a person-centered approach to care, which means that we focus on the unique needs and preferences of each client, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Our caregivers are trained to provide support with dignity and respect, and to encourage clients to remain as inde-pendent as possible, while still receiving the care and assistance they need. We also understand the importance of companionship and socialization, especially for those who may be living alone. For this reason, we offer a range of social activities and outings, to help clients stay engaged and connected to their community. At our domiciliary home care agency, we believe that everyone deserves to live with dignity and re-spect, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Whether you or a loved one are in need of long-term care or just a few hours of assistance each week, we would be honored to provide the support and care you need to live your best life at home. Contact us at: www.violethomecare.co.uk Info@violethomecare.co.uk 01372 700315 See the advert on the facing page for details.