The Carer Digital - Issue #198

Local Ser vices Face

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

THE URGENT NEED FOR A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR ADULT SOCIAL CARE

As the general election approaches, it is disheartening to see that none of the main party manifestos have provided sufficient detail on how they will fund adult social care or introduce long-term policies to support it

This is a glaring omission especially given the alarming news in our lead story that up to half of local authorities could face bankruptcy over the next five years some even sooner without additional funding

Social care should have been a central theme in the general election

Whomever ends up in government adult social care will be one of their biggest challenges Since the financial crisis of 2008 the problem of how to provide it to an ageing population has reached a critical level

This past weekend, THE CARER had the opportunity to exhibit at The Alzheimer's & Dementia Show at London's Excel Trade exhibitions like this are invaluable for meeting providers, care workers, organisations, and sector observers, and for gaining crucial feedback This particular show was different, as many visitors were families and "unpaid carers " Last year, a report revealed that unpaid carers contribute around £162 billion per year to the economy which is almost equivalent to a second NHS This staggering contribution is made by individuals giving up their lives amid a declining availability of social care and support

Speaking to many unpaid carers at the show was heartbreaking More than a quarter (27%) of unpaid carers report having bad or very bad mental health a figure that rises to 31% for those caring for more than 50 hours a week or for over 10 years

Among those with poor mental health 84% experience continuous low mood 82% feel hopeless and 71% regularly feel tearful Furthermore 68% live with a sense of fear or dread 79% feel stressed or anxious 49% feel depressed and 50% feel lonely The rising cost of living exacerbates these issues with 65% of carers stating it negatively impacts their physical and mental health Despite feeling they are at breaking point, nearly three-quarters (73%) of carers with bad or very bad mental health continue to provide care

The Carer is published by RBC Publishing Ltd, 3 Carlton Mount, 2 Cranborne Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH2

This is truly outrageous The systemic neglect of unpaid carers who are themselves at risk of needing care due to the immense strain they are under, creates a vicious cycle The time for sticking-plaster fixes is over The show in London opened my eyes to the plight of unpaid carers and underscored the urgent need to reform the system We must ensure that those requiring care receive funded professional care in a safe environment allowing unpaid carers to live their lives become successful taxpayers, and help fund the care system

As we approach the general election it is imperative that all political parties recognize the critical importance of a comprehensive, sustainable plan for adult social care This includes adequate funding fair staff remuneration reducing turnover and enhancing training Only then can we provide the support that carers and those in need of care so desperately require I can be contacted at any time at editor@thecareruk com

We would also ask our readers to follow us on Twitter @TheCarerUK and also sign up to our email newsletters at www thecareruk com/recommends/signup to have all the latest news delivered directly twice weekly

Editor Peter Adams

Local Ser vices Face “Breaking Point” Without Long-Term Funding and ‘Fundamental’ Reform

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

The County Councils Network (CCN) manifesto is calling on the next government to urgently set out how it will fund local authorities and reform council services once in office warning that local services could face a ‘breaking point’ with county authorities facing a £2bn funding black hole over the next two years

With just over two weeks to the general election the network which represents England s largest councils, has launched its Manifesto for Counties It is a blueprint for sustainable county and unitary councils and better local services for residents but the manifesto warns that the incoming government will inherit a situation with council finances ‘extremely precarious’ “BOLD AND BRAVE”

The CCN argues that additional funding alone will not ensure councils are sustainable in the future It says the government must set out a ‘bold and brave’ package of reform in local services that face the biggest financial and demand pressures alongside extra funding

With these 37 county authorities facing a £2bn funding gap over the next two years and predictions of a post-election squeeze on non-protected government departments whoever wins power, the CCN warns that even well-managed authorities of all shapes sizes and political control could reach breaking point

With 68% of the average county authority budget consumed by adult social care and children’s services, councils warn this figure will only grow if there is no uplift in funds in the forthcoming Spending Review If this is the case local authorities will have no alternative but to have an honest discussion with government and carefully consider what services can reasonably be delivered above the statutory minimum

The CCN’s Manifesto for Counties calls on the next government to set out increased and long-term funding for councils in its forthcoming Spending Review But this must be coupled with reform in the services that are under the most pressure currently

BLACK HOLE

In a cross-party County Councils Network statement the leaders of the organisation’s Conservative, Labour Liberal Democrat and Independent groups said: Council services in county areas enhance the lives of 26m people, yet those councils face a funding black hole of £2bn over the next two years Whoever wins power the next government inherits a situation with council finances that are extremely precarious “Without extra funding and fundamental reform, highly valued local services could reach breaking point, and even well-run local authorities could struggle to balance the books The next government must urgently set out how it will fund councils once in office while also adopting our bold and brave agenda for reform ” “Our cross-party Manifesto for Counties does not simply make blank cheque arguments The council services under the most pressure will only become sustainable in the future if they are coupled with root and branch reform Councils want to be key partners in this process: setting out solutions and then leading on implementing reform across a host of areas such as children s services SEND provision and school transport ”

With the public finances tight and non-protected government departments potentially facing a realterms reduction, it is vital that all political parties focus on securing long-term growth Our manifesto sets out how to empower county authorities through new economic powers and devolved funding streams so they can create the prosperity of the future to help fund local public services in the long-term ” FINANCIAL CRISIS

Another manifesto released by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) delves into the future for local government and warns of the severe financial difficulties facing local authorities

The LGIU says it welcomes the broad political support for devolution and believes that decisions should be made at the lowest possible level of government, with bespoke devolution deals best equipped to deliver aspirations of residents

However their manifesto analysis reveals that all parties have underestimated the financial crisis in local government and urgent action is needed if we are to avoid hundreds of councils plunging into effective bankruptcy

LGIU research shows more than half of local authorities could declare effective bankruptcy in the next five years and nearly one in ten (9%) within this financial year Earlier this year 19 councils were granted permission to sell local assets worth hundreds of millions of pounds and borrow more to balance the books Without additional funding or the ability to raise their own funds councils will plunge further into debt irrespective of who is in Downing Street

And, it is vital for democracy that trust is rebuilt between citizen and state while manifesto commitments are delivered Recent LGIU research (with Ipsos) has revealed a significant disconnect between citizens and the institutions meant to serve them, with only a quarter of adults aged 18-75 placing their trust in the Government and the national media to act in the best interests of local communities

REBUILD TRUST

The LGIU are calling for the next national government to work together to rebuild trust and confidence in our political structures This has to include reform of local government systems

Local authorities must they say, be given the autonomy to shape policy decisions to local circumstances and local needs and be supported by a funding mechanism that means those decisions can be financed effectively and sustainably Only then can we begin to convince people that government and politicians at all levels have the best interests of local communities at heart

Jonathan Carr-West Chief Executive LGIU said: National success has local foundations and the next government needs functioning local authorities to deliver its national mandate

However with half of all councils expected to go bankrupt within the next government s first term none of the parties manifestos adequately address the urgent financial crisis in local government

“Councils are the part of government with the most impact on our daily lives and the places we live Since 2018, eight councils have already gone bust resulting in residents’ council tax doubling while public services are decimated ”

“That is why the LGIU is calling on all parties and candidates in the upcoming 4 July UK general election to commit to saving local government by providing it with sustainable funding ”

The many pressures and challenges facing the next government – from housing to social care to record levels of public distrust – can only be tackled in partnership with a resilient sustainable local government sector

It s time to listen to those who know the sector best Our proposed reforms have been developed from a decade of solutions-focused research and in-depth consultation with leaders and chief executives in UK local government Many of them can be implemented within the first 100 days of a new government All of them are proven to work ”

Social Care Investment: A Message to the Next Government

The General Election will take place on 4th July and whoever forms the next government will face the challenge of overhauling the UK s social care system

In the second of three articles Melanie Weatherley MBE Chair of the Lincolnshire Care Association highlights the need for investment in the social care sector

The past five years have undoubtedly been a challenge for everyone in the UK First there was Brexit then we had a global pandemic then the war in Ukraine all of which was compounded by a mini-Budget which caused financial turmoil and worsened the cost of living crisis

However I would argue that the social care sector has been impacted more than most as care providers have had to deal with local authority funding challenges as well as high interest rates and soaring

inflation at levels not seen for many years

Throughout all this economic hardship and uncertainty care providers in this country have managed to continue to provide quality services to their service users which speaks volumes for their resilience and their dedication to the people they care for

But the financial squeeze on care providers has been intense Those providers that are dependent on local authority and NHS-funded service users – in other words the providers that care for the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in society – have had to spend almost all their revenue on covering day-to-day running costs There s means there’s little or no money left in the pot for innovation or improvement

LOW WAGES

Increased investment in the social care sector will allow us to address once and for all the scourge of low wages Care staff are paid in line with the assumptions used by commissioners when setting fees, which means their pay is normally at or just above the National Living Wage Carers are wonderful people who are totally committed to their service users and they do a fantastic job but increasingly they are leaving the care sector because they simply cannot afford to stay

The time is long overdue for paying our carers a wage which reflects the difficulty of their job and the responsibilities they take on; we must finally recognise the professionalism of our care workers and reward them with significant increases in their pay However, these increases have to be funded by central government because the current tight margins do not allow care providers to significantly invest in wages With increased investment in wages and training social care staff could do even more to support the NHS and help the next government to achieve what will undoubtedly be one of its primary goals – to reduce the waiting lists and bed blocking that are currently blighting our health system

GOING DIGITAL

Care workers pay is not the only area that is crying out for more investment In the care sector, as in many other areas, there are exciting opportunities to improve quality and productivity by embracing and harnessing digital technology but again this requires significant strategic investment from the centre

It must be said that there is already some help available for digitisation NHS England has offered care providers a 50% grant towards introducing digital care records, for example But once again the tight margins and the increased costs are hampering progress in this area: those care providers that work mostly with local authority funded customers cannot afford the other 50% as their fee income is too low Care providers supporting self–funding may be able to increase fees but is this fair?

It is instructive to note that GP practices (which are also private independent businesses like care providers) received full funding for the transition to digital working Why should the same support not be extended to care providers?

A combination of cuts to public services and economic turbulence have combined to put

Winchester Care Home’s Craft Fayre

Raises £300 For The Boaz Project

Real Estate Acquires Signature Senior Lifestyle

Social Care Must Not Be In The ‘Too Difficult’ Basket Says CPA

Audley Group Gets Active And Raises £14,000 For Charity

Fostering a Culture of Safety: Strategies for Effective Employee Training and Engagement

By Subhrajit Das, Director of Workplace Safety and Employee Development, Langdale

In the care home industry, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and staff is of utmost importance As care providers we have a responsibility to create a culture of safety that permeates every aspect of our work At the heart of this endeavour lies effective employee training and engagement

We must recognise that staff are the backbone of any care organisation Their dedication skills and commitment to providing exceptional care are what set us apart To foster a culture of safety, we must invest in our staff development and create an environment that encourages open communication, continuous learning, and proactive problem-solving

One of the key strategies to employ is providing comprehensive and engaging training programmes Training sessions should go beyond merely imparting knowledge; they should be designed to be interactive, practical and relatable to the everyday challenges staff face By using real-life scenarios role-playing exercises and hands-on demonstrations, we can help employees internalise safety protocols and develop the confidence to apply them in their daily work

Moreover, it's crucial to understand that training is not a one-time event but an ongoing process Regular refresher courses updates on industry best practices and opportunities for skill enhancement should be integral to any staff development plan By keeping employees informed and equipped with the latest knowledge and tools we empower them to make safety a top priority in every interaction with residents

and colleagues

However, training alone is not enough to create a culture of safety Employee engagement is equally crucial We must strive to create an environment where staff feel valued, heard, and supported Regular team meetings, open-door policies, and anonymous feedback mechanisms provide platforms for employees to voice their concerns, share ideas, and contribute to the continuous improvement of safety practices

The power of positive reinforcement in driving behavioural change cannot be understated By celebrating safety successes, acknowledging employees who go above and beyond in promoting safety, and sharing best practices across care homes, we create a sense of pride and ownership in maintaining a safe environment This recognition not only boosts morale but also encourages others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of safety-conscious behaviour

Furthermore, leading by example is essential Management teams should actively participate in safety training and regularly engage with staff on safety matters By demonstrating a genuine commitment to safety at all levels of the organisation, a powerful message is sent that safety is not just a slogan but a way of life

In conclusion, fostering a culture of safety requires a multi-faceted approach that combines effective training, employee engagement, and leadership commitment By investing in staff development, creating open communication channels, and leading by example we can create a work environment where safety is not just a priority but a shared responsibility Together, we can ensure that residents receive the highest quality of care in a safe and nurturing environment

At Langdale Care Homes, we are committed to this journey of continuous improvement, and I am proud to be part of a team that puts safety at the forefront of everything we do 4

Rownhams Manor Care Home and St. John’s CE

Primar y School Collaborate On Time Capsule Project

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pant from flat on the floor to a

seated position An end

ensures the

and gives the operator the correct position for dis-assembly after use

The six core elements- four identical legs and two identical back sections- quickly and easily click-fit together with no risk of incorrect assembly The occupant is fully supported throughout the process and kept stable and safe with use of the integral adjustable seat belt

“Even conservative estimates put the number of falls in care homes at over 700/day nationwide(1)! observes Peter Wingrave AAT Director This is no reflection of the standard of care given It does leave the resident and care staff exposed to risk in safely getting the resident back up again particularly with the growth in obesity among residents 3

“Only 4% of falls result in injury requiring a visit to hospital Use of equipment such as Raizer II can play a key role in any good moving and handling policy It takes the effort and risk out of the procedure for all involved Raizer is already proven in the market What differentiates it- and usnow is the fact we provide comprehensive service & maintenance, on site So there is none of the worry nor exposure of having to send it away and in the

Charities Call For Urgent Review Of Assessment & Treatment Units

successive governments have failed to prioritise this group

Instead it has allowed this scandal to go unchecked

This combined body of member expertise underlines what we know, which is that most people currently detained in ATUs could be successfully supported in community services Often this support will turn out to be cheaper over time than an ATU placement

The knowledge and expertise to achieve this exists

TODAY’S PAPER LAYS OUT THREE KEY AREAS:

CHALLENGE REGISTRATION AND RATINGS

ATUs not only fail to deliver effective services for individuals, often they fail on their own terms and do not deliver on their core registered purpose Services that are meant to be for assessment treatment and then discharge end up detaining people for years on end VODG asserts that such services should not be rated ‘Good’ by CQC Yet many still are

RE-THINK PROCUREMENT –

Assessment & Treatment Units (ATUs)

VODG the membership body representing over 100 organisations within the voluntary sector who work alongside disabled people is working with others in the sector to use the upcoming election to shine a light on the need to urgently reframe commissioning and invest differently

Despite the unacceptable truth that the number of people in these settings remains too high – with the number of autistic people being admitted to ATUs actually increasing in recent years –party manifestos published last week remain almost silent on the topic with only the Liberal Democrats providing a direct commitment to ‘ending inappropriate and costly inpatient placements for people with learning disabilities and autism

Rhidian Hughes VODG Chief Executive says: There are more than 2 000 autistic people and people with learning disabilities currently detained in NHS-funded accommodation against their wishes and against the wishes of their families Often for years, and with no clear release date It is the next Government s responsibility to ensure the right levers and provision is in place to end the inappropriate use of inpatient settings

‘VODG has been engaged in demonstrating the practical solutions that third sector providers can offer for over a decade but

The money is in the wrong place Good commissioning should invest to save over the longer term – resourcing prevention by partnering with community providers and housing suppliers It should draw on the insight of people with lived experience and their families who articulate consistently what they need – wellmanaged transitions between services investment in communitybased services close to people s families and friends skilled staff

CO-ORDINATE COLLECTIVE ACTION

There is a large and strong coalition of user-led, special interest and third sector provider and membership bodies who want to see the end of inappropriate detention of autistic people and people with a learning disability – VODG VoiceAbility The Challenging Behaviour Foundation Mencap and The British Association of Social Workers included Further co-ordinated collective action is needed to bring pressure to bear on the Government and government must respond

Hughes adds: ‘2024 marks another chapter in a national scandal that should become a national priority We need a government willing to act not just agree that something needs to be done We have offered practical affordable solutions that expert third sector organisations can deliver yet year-after-year thousands of vulnerable people in the UK remain unnecessarily locked away The current system is not fit for purpose and the impact of this is unconscionable

Fun-Filled Day for Fathers at Chippenham Care Home

Labour’s Proposed Social Care Reforms

Welcomed, But Concerns Over “Lack Of Detail”

drive

compassionate care for their friends and families every day – are notable by their absence Vic Rayner OBE, CEO of National Care Forum commented: “Labour’s vision for a National Care Service and Fair Pay Agreements are core ambitions for a future government They provide a central framing for reform which

“Many, particularly smaller providers, are struggling to meet the latest increase in the national living wage and national minimum wage and without more funding will not be able to meet further rises Nuffield

Care Home Resident Touched By Act Of Kindness

Transitioning Into Care From A Loved One’s Perspective

When someone receives a dementia diagnosis it can be an unsettling upsetting and challenging time not only for them but also for their close family and friends It can change a person s life and affect the way they spend their days

Surrounding the person with the diagnosis is usually close family friends and loved ones who also have their lives turned upside down It’s a perspective that totally differs from the person with a diagnosis and one that isn’t usually spoken about

This case study explores the experience of Cathy whose husband of 50 years John was diagnosed with dementia and moved into St George s Court Care Home in Cambridge We will follow Cathy’s journey as she transitioned from caring for John at home to him living in a care home

When Cathy could no longer care for John at home she and her family began looking into care options It was a difficult time as they adjusted to John s diagnosis but Cathy was determined to find a caring comfortable home for him As she researched local care homes Cathy felt guilty about not being able to care for her husband herself and worried about how he would adjust to a new environment She was concerned that his unique personality and needs might not be fully appreciated by others However recognising these feelings as normal Cathy focused on ensuring John’s new home would be safe, supportive and collaborative; somewhere that truly felt like home to him

Cathy was new to the world of care homes and had only preconceived notions based on internet searches Determined to see the reality she visited care homes unannounced to gain an authentic perspective This approach helped her trust her instincts and she put

her energy into ensuring John s new home would be safe supportive and collaboratively work alongside her and John, to ensure he would continue to live a fulfilled life Cathy said I instantly knew if the care home would be right for my husband It was a gut feeling I got as soon as I walked in

When Cathy was referred to St George s Court Care Home she checked its CQC rating and saw it was rated as ‘Inadequate’ which made her feel anxious However with limited availability and an immediate vacancy, she decided to visit On arrival, she felt comfort and warmth unlike other care homes She observed the team actively engaging with residents and noted their friendly interactions

Meeting Home Manager Jayne further eased Cathy’s concerns Jayne was open honest and transparent about the inspection rating reassuring Cathy of the numerous improvements had been made since her appointment Jayne’s philosophy of “Never leave (your visit) with a problem – come and talk to me!” truly resonated with Cathy, giving her confidence that John would be loved cared for and respected at St George s Court Jayne even asked Cathy for feedback which she appreciated as no other care home had done that Cathy faced a significant decision knowing it would shape the future for her husband of 50 years, so she knew she had to get it right With what she had seen heard and observed at St George’s Court Cathy decided this would be the best place for her husband and shortly after the process started John moved into his new home

After a short time living at St George’s Court Cathy’s decision to choose this home was reaffirmed through the service she received, giving her the confidence that she had made the right decision and eased the initial feelings of guilt she had

Although there were some small concerns and questions Cathy had throughout John s care Cathy found her queries were promptly answered and actioned by a team who truly listened, Jayne’s door was always open and overall it was a very positive experience for both Cathy and John Cathy s advice to people who are looking into care options for themselves or a loved one is “Do not just believe what you see online My whole opinion of St George’s Court was totally transformed when I visited and got a taste what life was like in the home Always visit and always trust your gut instinct as it is usually right

100-year-old Doris’s Walking Challenge to Fundraise at Wiltshire Care Home, Marden Court

place to another If people did not have a bike, they walked ” Debbie Scammell Marden Court s Home Manager said: We are all in awe of Doris by wishing to do this challenge She is an outgoing lady who enjoys her life, despite not being able to see well Doris finds happiness

she recently met PC J Bourke who also enjoyed speaking to Doris He too found Doris a great inspiration and also is trying to raise funds on the Calne police website!

For more details about the challenge and to sponsor Doris visit www justgiving com/campaign/dorissponsoredwalk

“We

NHS Continues To Face Record Demand

For Ser vices, New Data Shows

NHS staff continue to face significant demand for urgent care, with new figures showing that A&Es in England managed their busiest ever month for attendances in May

New monthly performance data also shows that it was a record April for the number of elective appointments delivered for hundreds of thousands of patients

The latest statistics published today show that more than 2 4 million people (2 416 292) attended A&Es across the country in May – the highest number on record

Across all types of A&E in May there were almost 5% more attendances per day compared with April Type 1 A&Es saw an average of 1,700 more patients per day compared with the month before

It was the second busiest month on record for emergency admissions with 564 693 admitted in May – second only to March 2024 which saw 567 456 emergency admissions

While the overall Covid backlog for routine treatment has increased – to 7 57 million in April, from 7 54 million the previous month – staff carried out a record number of elective procedures appointments and tests for April (1,481,152), more than the previous high for that month of 1,363,439 in April 2019

Data shows for each month over the past 10 months more elective activity has been delivered compared with the same month pre-pandemic

Waits of more than 52 weeks (302 589) are the lowest they have been since August 2021 (295 362) while waits of more than 18 weeks are the lowest in almost a year – 3 161 429 in April 2024 the lowest since 3,091,288 in June 2023

Today s data shows it was the busiest ever April for diagnostic activity with 2 328 986 tests checks and scans carried out – 21% more than same month pre-pandemic (1,917,308 in April 2019)

In April there were 260 108 urgent suspected cancer referrals seen a record for that month and up almost a third (31%) from April 2019 (199,217)

The number of people receiving a cancer diagnosis or having cancer ruled out within four weeks is also a record number for April – 194 504 – despite the increased demand for referrals

The latest figures come as the NHS prepares for more strike action by junior doctors from 7am on Thursday 27 June NHS advice will remain the same – people should continue to use 999 in an emergency and NHS 111 online in the first instance

Professor Sir Stephen Powis NHS National Medical Director, said: “As these figures show demand for NHS services across the country remains high May was a record month for urgent and emergency services, with the highest number of A&E attendances as well as being the busiest May for the most urgent ambulance call-outs while staff delivered a record number of elective appointments for April

This is alongside viruses that are still causing concern including whooping cough Cases have been rising sharply in recent months, and there have sadly been eight infant deaths this year We continue to urge all pregnant women to get vaccinated to help protect their babies in the first few weeks of their life and ensure that their children get protected in the first few months after birth as part of the routine NHS vaccine offer

“We are also encouraging those who are eligible to come forward for their Covid-19 vaccination before the spring booster campaign ends on June 30 This virus can still cause severe illness and hospitalisations in some cases particularly among those most at risk The vaccine gives the best protection against the virus and its different variants, and helps reduce the risk of serious illness

With junior doctors striking for five days starting from the end of June the NHS is preparing for further disruption to services in coming weeks We would remind people to continue to use NHS services in the usual way by using 999 and A&E in an emergency and by using 111 online and community services like GPs and

We Like To Move It, Move It – Care Home Residents Get Moving

Exploring the Future of Health and Social Care: How Can We Overcome the Current Challenges?

Well-being

The health and social care sectors in the UK are facing significant challenges in 2024 Ongoing backlogs skilled workforce shortages and increasing service demand are creating a perfect storm With both public and private sectors working tirelessly towards enhancing care quality the question remains: how can we overcome these challenges to ensure and deliver sustainable high-quality care to service users?

Reablement Services

Enhancing Independence and

One of the most critical areas of focus is reablement services These services are essential for supporting individuals particularly the elderly in regaining their independence after a hospital stay Effective reablement can significantly reduce hospital readmissions and the need for long-term care easing pressure on healthcare and social care systems As per the NHS Benchmarking Network’s National Audit of Intermediate Care 93% of individuals who received reablement services in 2018 either improved or maintained their independence Despite its significance reablement services still encounter challenges such as limited resources and operational inefficiencies

Initiatives should aim to enhance the delivery of reablement services across England These efforts should include improving coordination and scheduling to maximise the efficiency of reablement teams allowing them more control and insight into their time management processes Through the use of intelligent data-driven insights, local authorities and private entities can enhance resource allocation ensuring individuals receive timely and appropriate support, while service providers can reduce costs and achieve a more balanced schedule ADDRESSING BACKLOGS AND WORKFORCE STRAINS IN HEALTH SERVICES

The NHS continues to battle substantial backlogs exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing industrial actions These challenges are compounded by workforce shortages particularly in specialist areas such as stroke services Innovative solutions need to be deployed to improve capacity and efficiency in these areas For exam-

By Chris Hornung, Managing Director for Public Sector

ple new initiatives are being launched to enhance stroke service delivery These initiatives focus on increasing the capacity of communitybased stroke support teams ensuring that patients receive continuous care post-discharge By optimising care schedules and leveraging advanced management tools healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on hospital services The NHS s Long Term Plan also emphasises the necessity for additional investment and productivity improvements in community health services to achieve effective reablement services potentially freeing up more than a million hospital bed days

ENHANCING FLEXIBILITY AND WORK-LIFE BALANCE FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES

Police and ambulance services are also facing significant pressures

According to a recent report by the Police Federation, high-stress environments increased workloads and rigid shift patterns contribute to burnout and high turnover rates among experienced personnel

Addressing these issues requires a dual approach: improving work-life balance and enhancing operational efficiency

Flexible rostering systems should be adopted to provide more adaptable working conditions These systems allow for better management of shifts enabling personnel to have more control over their schedules and time This flexibility is crucial in retaining skilled staff and ensuring the continuous delivery of essential services

THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN SUPPORTING

WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT

Technology plays a pivotal role in modernising workforce management across the health and social care sectors Advanced rostering and scheduling solutions provide organisations with the tools needed to optimise staff deployment and manage workloads effectively These solutions are particularly beneficial in environments like the NHS and private health providers where the ability to predict and plan for staffing needs can significantly impact service delivery

For instance predictive analytics and AI should be integrated into any reporting and planning tools These technologies should have a complete and holistic view of the entire workforce to enable managers to quickly forecast staffing shortages and adjust schedules proactively

However few tech providers offer this complete platform approach which is essential to success By anticipating future needs organisations can take pre-emptive actions such as arranging overtime or sourcing alternative staff thereby avoiding last-minute crises and ensuring consistent care delivery It’s not just tools that technology providers can offer though collaborations with can drive innovation

OVERCOMING LONG-TERM RECRUITMENT CHALLENGES

While improving current workforce management is critical addressing long-term recruitment challenges is equally important Training new staff, whether paramedics, police officers, or healthcare professionals is a time-intensive process Keeping existing staff and reducing turnover rates is a more immediate and cost-effective strategy New efforts should be made to create supportive working environments that encourage staff retention This includes providing opportunities for career development, offering mental health support, and ensuring that staff feel valued and recognised for their contributions Additionally, initiatives that highlight the positive impact of employees work on their communities can enhance job satisfaction and loyalty A PATH FORWARD

The health and social care sectors are at a critical juncture To manage the current landscape it is essential to adopt a multifaceted approach that includes enhancing reablement services improving workforce management, leveraging technology, and fostering strategic partnerships By focusing on these areas we can create a more resilient and efficient system capable of delivering high-quality care in the face of ongoing challenges But is the sector ready to embrace these changes and invest in the future of health and social care? As we move forward, the answer to this question will determine our ability to provide sustainable high-quality care for all

Boxing Legend Welcomes Rising Stars To Cottingham Care Home

Growing Pressures on Hospice Sector Could Have Potentially Damaging Consequences

Earlier this year Hospice UK s quarterly financial benchmarking survey revealed that the UK hospice sector which supports 300 000 people annually is facing an estimated collective deficit of £77 million in the financial year 2023-24

Expenditure increases are the main driver behind this crisis Hospices care for people at their most vulnerable times, providing support and comfort to dying people and their families The cost of this is increasing with the cost of paying staff a fair wage becoming a particular problem

The majority of hospice expenditure is spent on staff salaries As vital partners of the NHS, hospices recruit from the same pool of staff This means they need to match NHS pay and conditions to attract and retain skilled staff to care for people at the end of their lives

As Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK explains: “Costs for hospices will keep rising, and without a new model for funding end-of-life care the coming years could be devastating for hospice care services particularly for those in economically challenged areas

“Many are already considering halting vital services which will have devastating consequences for patients their families hospice staff local communities and the NHS itself FUNDING

Adult hospices only receive on average around one-third of their funding from the state and children s hospices only receive around one-fifth This means most of the funding for essential hospice services comes from fundraising and charitable donations

Harpreet Sahota, Hospice Account Executive at Towergate Insurance explains: “The hospice sector has been facing a funding gap for several years and has run budget deficits with a significant amount being sustained by legacies which keep them afloat or manage to fill the budget gap

There s a big issue with recruiting and retention of care/nursing staff as well as agency costs increasing when supply staff are required to fill the gaps ”

Earlier this year a report by the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Hospice and End of Life Care found that despite a law passed in 2022 the way hospice services are commissioned in England is not fit for

purpose

The cross-party group of MPs found that the services hospices provide for dying people and their families and the support they provide to the health system are at risk

St Gemma’s Hospice is just one of dozens of hospices calling for more NHS funding to help provide a more secure future for Hospices across the UK In an interview with the BBC Kerry Jackson chief executive of St Gemma s Hospice said I would absolutely say the money we get from the NHS is not sufficient "If we really wanted to meet the needs of our population today, tomorrow and in future, then we really do need a more sustainable and fair NHS funding model

RISE IN DEMAND

More people are dying in the UK After decades of a stable slightly declining death rate demographic trends mean that the annual number of deaths - currently approximately 650 000 - is steadily increasing It will reach 780 000 In 2040

Hospice UK’s new strategy discusses how our aging population means more and more people are living with complex long-term conditions such as frailty and dementia which require specialist management

In addition, medical advances mean that more children are being born and are living longer, with life-limiting conditions There is also greater demand for services such as counselling and bereavement care as the importance of these interventions is increasingly understood

There is also growth in demand for hospice care services to be delivered in different locations including hospices homes hospitals care homes and virtually All these contributing factors mean the demand for hospices and their services will only increase in coming years

SUPPORTING A VITAL SERVICE

There is also greater demand being created by pressures on other health and care services which threatens to leave hospices to fill the gaps

Hospices are a vital part of the wider health and care

tor at large hospices are finding it hard to recruit and retain

of hospital services

Paul Hodgkinson Corporate Development Manager at Hospice UK We want to see

and skills around specialist palliative and end-of-life care in general medicine This could be improved by education and training opportunities including those for end-of-life care being open to the entire health and care workforce regardless of employer We want to work with education organisations to design training and attract professionals into the palliative care workforce”

With budgets being stretched and a tough recruitment market many hospices are having to

less staff, making it even more challenging to continue their vital services

The Maples Care Home Celebrates King Charles III’s 75th Birthday

NHS Treatment Waiting List Increases For First Time In Seven Months

The waiting list for routine hospital treatment in England has risen for the first time in seven months new figures show, in what will be a fresh blow to Rishi Sunak’s election campaign

An estimated 7 57 million treatments were waiting to be carried out at the end of April relating to 6 33 million patients – up slightly from 7 54 million treatments and 6 29 million patients at the end of March NHS England said

The list hit a record high in September 2023 with 7 77 million treatments and 6 50 million patients

Responding to the figures Rory Deighton, director of the NHS Confederation’s Acute Network, said: “These figures are a stark reminder of the immense pressure the NHS is under with leaders and their teams having to work incredibly hard to care for patients in the face of relentless demand

It is disappointing to see that waiting lists have risen for the first time since October despite the health service managing to increase productivity to above pre-pandemic levels But the rise in productivity is testament to the hard work and planning or NHS leaders and their teams who have been having to manage the pressure of rising demand and ongoing industrial action

A&Es saw a record number of attendances and the second highest number of emergency admissions suggesting that not only is demand continuing to increase but patients are sicker Ambulance response times are also now going back in the wrong direction

“We know that the NHS is in a very difficult position with health systems having to consider cutting clinical and administrative staff to balance their books Trusts are also telling us they are reducing their use of independent sector and in-sourcing services more weekend working and additional sessions

“There is a very real risk that the financial pressures that stem from a decade of underinvestment flat revenue budgets and a lack of capital funding the NHS could jeopardise tackling backlogs and improving performance

If the NHS is going to tackle waiting lists and improve performance it needs the right support and resources to do so That is why we are calling for the next government to invest an extra £6 4 billion a year into capital budgets which our members feel is crucial to unlocking greater productivity ”

Tim Gardner, Assistant Director of Policy at the Health Foundation, said:

With both Labour and the Conservatives promising big improvements in NHS waiting times today’s figures are a stark reminder of the scale of the challenge facing the next government

The waiting list for routine hospital care remains at near record levels at 7 57 million having virtually tripled over the last decade While there has been some progress in recent months there is still a huge mountain to climb with over 300,000 waits of over one year

To

Social Care Communications Expert Appointed Trustee at The Care Workers' Charity

Nathan Hollow Group Board Director and Head of Health and Social Care at PLMR Group an award-winning public affairs PR corporate digital and crisis communications agency has been appointed a Trustee of The Care Workers Charity (CWC)

The Care Workers' Charity has been at the forefront of aiding current and former care workers facing unforeseen challenges The charity provides mental health support, hardship grants, and political representation for care workers and has disbursed over £6 million in grants since 2020 aiding over 10 000 care workers in need

Nathan brings over a decade of experience and expertise to the role having specialised in health and social care communications for the past 13 years during which time he has carved out an award-winning career advising some of the UK s largest and most influential health and care providers The world s largest membership body, the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) previously named Nathan their “Young Communicator of the Year” and he has also been previously recognised by CorpComms Magazine as one of their Young Achievers and by LaingBuisson as one of their Rising Stars Meanwhile under Nathan s leadership PLMR Group s Health and Social Care Practice has been named HealthInvestor’s Strategic Consultants of the Year and most recently won the Marketing and Creative Services category at the 2023 Care Sector Supplier Awards

on supporting care workers to navigate sustained mental health and financial challenges arising from ongoing cost of living whilst Local Authority funding cuts mean that the wider social security net many could previously have relied on is shrinking

Commenting on his appointment, Nathan Hollow expressed his commitment to the cause stating

"I am honoured to join The Care Workers' Charity as a Trustee, having long admired the work Karolina and her predecessors have done over recent years Having worked as a consultant in the social care field for over 13 years I am also no stranger to the immense challenges facing the care sector and individual care workers and how often their dedication goes unnoticed or unrewarded

The media and political discourse repeatedly undervalues care work at best failing to recognise and reward the skills and passion of carers and at worst actively demonising those who have come here to support some of society’s most vulnerable people

Now more than ever the charity has a vital role to play in supporting care workers through what will undoubtedly be a very tough few years as cost of living pressures and the Covid-19 Inquiry continue I am also eager to contribute to the charity's work to increase the recognition and value wider society places on care work

However, it is his personal experience of the social care sector in Cornwall that motivated Nathan to apply for the position having spent eight years managing home care and care home services for his Grandmother during her dementia journey During this time, he experienced first-hand the extraordinary lengths carers will go to support the people in their care both before and during the Covid-19 pandemic as well as the many systemic challenges they face particularly in Local Authority funded care in a rural areas

As a Trustee he will play a crucial role in guiding the strategic direction of the charity working with the wider Board and CEO Karolina Gerlich, ensuring the charity continues to address the evolving needs of care workers in the ever-changing and complicated landscape of healthcare and social services In 2023 the charity witnessed a substantial increase in requests for support from carers faced with rising cost of living pressures which grew to be the largest reason for contacting the charity as well as a growing number of calls from suspected victims of modern slavery In 2024 the charity continues to focus

“From there, I hope we can encourage those whose loved ones benefit the passion of carers – as my family and I have – to give back and donate to the charity expanding the charity s reach and diversifying its funding beyond the sector so it can have a strong future ahead of it ”

Karolina Gerlich Chief Executive Officer of The Care Workers Charity commented

"I am thrilled to welcome Nathan as our newest Trustee at The Care Workers' Charity His extensive experience and dedication to the social care sector makes him an invaluable addition to our leadership team As we face the evolving challenges in the care industry Nathan s insights and strategic guidance will play a pivotal role in pushing our mission forward

The Care Workers Charity has been at the forefront of providing crucial support to care workers and we only want to continue to enhance our impact We are excited about the positive contributions Nathan will bring to our cause and look forward to working collaboratively towards our shared goal of supporting those who dedicate their lives to caring for others "

Diamond Wedding Couple

Wes Streeting Wants Labour’s Manifesto Plans

On Social Care To Be “More Ambitious”

He

Local Care Home Hosts Community Cocktails and Canapes Night

Chas Is One Of The ‘Sur vival Generation’

and everyone sang ‘Happy Birthday He very readily accepted a few glasses of nosecco joking and chatting to everyone before he opened cards and presents Abbeyfield Winnersh staff all chipped in to buy his card and impressive balloon, made by Claire Parrish at local business Balloon Boutique Chas was then joined for a tea party in the home’s summer house by five generations of his family fellow residents and staff where chef Joanna Tokar put on a great spread and served up a delicious birthday cake Chas has led a remarkable life and he had many adventures in the military including a few lucky escapes along with an accomplished career in accounts, a happy marriage and a large family Chas joined the Marines at 17 years of age serving on the HMS London He was onboard for the transportation of refugees from Barcelona to Marseilles during the Spanish Civil War and peacekeeping duties in the Mediterranean before returning to the UK having had an operation for appendicitis When the Second World War broke out, Chas was transferred to the HMS Frobisher He was mainly

tasked as a signal radio operator on the English south coast and regularly had to take shelter from the constant German shelling after the invasion of France

Chas was married to Joan in Portsmouth in 1940 but he was shortly recalled to military duty after they spent only a few weeks as newlyweds They were to remain apart for over three years subsequently and, tragically, their wedding photographs were destroyed in the Portsmouth blitz

Chas had several other narrow escapes whilst serving in the Marines Whilst in Crete in 1941 following the German invasion he was targeted by a dive bomber and blown off his motorbike He also managed to avoid being hit in the midst of continuous bombing during a 50-mile trek through the mountains eventually reaching the coast in time for evacuation to Egypt

After retiring in 1968 he enjoyed travelling the world with Joan and delighted in the company of their son Paul and five generations of his family Joan passed away at the age of 102 after 79 years of happy marriage

Chas eventually settled at Abbeyfield Winnersh Having subsequently battled through pneumonia and COVID, he is held in high esteem by everyone at the home and is a fantastic ambassador for the ‘Survival Generation

Abbeyfield Winnersh activities coordinator Charlotte Richardson, said, “Chas is much loved and a huge presence here I m so glad he enjoyed this amazing milestone with us All our staff here helped make his birthday special and it was a pleasure speaking to his family and learning more about his amazing life ”

Swift Management Ser vices Limited

Respite Care Charity Lines Up 129

Deck Chairs Across Trafalgar Square

funding often having to approach her Local Authority on a month-by-month basis Like many others who Revitalise staff have spoken with the Raja family have also experienced being denied access to regular adult social care services due to delays in, or lack of, funding

Muneeba said: You often feel as though you are hitting your head against a brick wall – particularly with the number of emails you send that remain unanswered

If Yusuf s respite care was provided in the first place we could stop some of this stress I feel the pressure on a dayto-day basis as a carer for a young adult with a disability

That’s something you live with and deal with, but the limbo with funding is agony and for no reason it doesn t have to be this way I m not asking for people to feel sorry for me or Yusuf I just need social services to put working solutions into place and create accountability for the countless problems in the system

CEO of Revitalise, Janine Tregelles CBE said: “These 129 deckchairs laid out on Trafalgar Square serve as a stark reminder of the millions of carers in England who are not provided with the means to access respite care

Only 1 in 129 unpaid carers are receiving support and instead of planned intervention to support caring relationships carers are being forced to say they cannot go

Orchard Care Homes Wins Top Accolade

At Stars Of Social Care Awards

Find Happiness in Ever ything says May, 102

Find happiness in everything and always have a smile " says May who recently celebrated her 102nd birthday at Ashlynn Grange Care Home in Peterborough May – who was christened Pearl - is a remarkable lady with a vibrant past and an enduring zest for life She had three children, two of whom she has outlived, and has six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren

Born and raised in Peterborough May lived independently in her own home until the age of 101 showcasing her incredible spirit and resilience

Life at Ashlynn Grange suits her well where she enjoys both the food and the activities offered She particularly relishes a good roast dinner a classic comfort food that brings back fond memories The community at Ashlynn Grange keeps her engaged and entertained with craft activities that remind her of her younger days when she was an avid knitter and also enjoyed crochet

May was married to Albert for more than 60 years and for 20 years of their life together the couple lived in Canada with their daughter and her family before returning to Peterborough in their 70s

was a Royal

and ignited her

Sona raises £22m to help large Social Care organisations access AI-driven WFM

We are excited to announce this new round of investment and how it will impact large Social Care organisations and their employees

Together with my fellow co-founders, Oli Johnson and Ben Dixon, we’d like to thank Felicis who led the financing with participation from Northzone, Google s AI-fund Gradient, SpeedInvest, Antler, BAG Ventures, and the numerous notable angels who participated in the round

When we founded Sona in 2021, we wanted to solve the unique challenges of frontline work with technology that empowers every employee, on every level of a large organisation

Two years later, Sona is doing just that for over 100,000 people We are grateful to the many organisations who have chosen us to support them on their digital journey, including Community Integrated Care, iVolve, Affinity, Yorkshire Care, Greensleeves Care, Cartrefi Cymru, and Livability, helping them deliver almost 5 million seamless shifts We’d also like to thank our partners who share in our vision for an integrated tech landscape for Care, including Nourish, Radar Healthcare, and Lottie

Some of the most talented and motivated people around have joined us to make this possible, and I’d like to give a particular shout-out to Hayley Horwood and Richard Upshall Together, they have more than 25 years of experience in the Care sector and their insights have guided us every step of the way

This deep involvement has taught us that the complexity associated with multi-location, 1000+ staff operations is coupled with the pressure and responsibility to provide the best care possible Social Care demands a state-ofthe-art solution, built with the kind of technology that isn’t just the latest right now, but that is flexible enough to continue being state-of-the-art ten years from now and later into the future

The financing is a big step on our journey to becoming the go-to WFM for large Social Care groups, but - more importantly - it is an investment in the sector as a whole

Over the past year, we ve seen demand for a nextgeneration solution like Sona increase fourfold Our

partners are looking to make their operations more efficient and reliable, improve staff satisfaction, and become financially sustainable organisations that can easily grow and support more people

The fact that we can confidently say Sona is a solution that pays for itself - and then more! - is something we re incredibly proud of because it provides organisations with a new revenue source they can re-invest into employee wellbeing and a better experience for the people they care for

So, what does this mean for the Care sector?

1. A truly intelligent AI-driven solution

We want to empower Social Care enterprises to forecast their staff needs based on what is best for the people they support with maximum accuracy and automatically tailor their operations accordingly This will help organisations speed up their scheduling, gain real-time views of their shift runs, and encourage growth in a way that tech simply hasn t in the last decade Previously, the focus was mostly on digitising paper-based processes, but as many organisations are now starting a vendor-replacement cycle, we want to provide them with a real nextgeneration solution

2 Automated HR processes

Our HR solution is already closely linked to Scheduling and communicates seamlessly as solutions built to work together from day one should The next step is to bring automation to the HR processes that currently take up the most time and are heavily prone to errors Our goal is to make the data we feed into our Payroll engine as accurate as possible and remove the potential for mistakes to snowball, leading to drops in employee satisfaction, more admin time, and even legal risks down the line

3. User-first technology

One implementation challenge organisations have experienced with legacy software is low tech adoption rates from frontline staff But what oftentimes is seen as fear of change, is actually a natural reaction to employee apps which were not designed to be accessible The Sona mobile app - together with all our interfaces - is built with usability in mind and consumer-grade standards We want to enrich this experience with even more features that make user life more efficient and increase satisfaction, particularly around self-service and onboarding new staff We believe the first impression new employees get of their organisation and its processes is key to their retention

4 High-quality research and contributions to Social Care in the UK

The feedback we’ve received for our industry-leading reports, webinars, and other research activities has always been incredible and we re only looking to add more Social Care is first and foremost about the people and the community We plan to continue reporting on the pulse of the sector, bring together leaders and visionaries to share their insights, and always spotlight the many opportunities Care offers At the same time, we want to expand our existing charitable contributions and make sure that we re always giving back to those on the frontline

committed our Customer Success and Implementation teams are to always going the extra mile, helping them optimise and grow their business We want to make sure that as we grow ourselves, we only improve this experience and provide even more comprehensive support every step of the way For that we ll be on the lookout for the best talent available

Overall, with Sona, I like to think of it as building the “selfdriving car” of running a Care business The last 20 years of workforce management were dominated by legacy point solutions that digitised simple paper processes Sona is building the next generation of WFM with a truly intelligent platform that enables organisational leaders in complex, multi-location enterprises to put the right people, in the right place, at the right time; and to seamlessly manage their workforce end-to-end

We believe we can deliver this because our exponential growth has been driven by tangible factors: speed of product delivery, high configurability, and sector expertise

Unlike legacy platforms, Sona s technology has been built from the ground up for real-time data processing and insights Leveraging the Elixir programming language and large language models - similar to what powers tools like ChatGPT - we offer AI-powered real-time actionable feedback which helps drive intelligent decision making and leads to real workforce productivity gains The trust of our investors so far has yielded a total of £30 millionfunds that we see contributing to the development of the sector as a whole

“We are proud to lead Sona's Series A round and support its mission to empower frontline enterprises with cuttingedge workforce management solutions ” We believe in Sona s potential to redefine how businesses [ ] manage their workforce, and we ' re excited to be part of their journey towards reshaping the future of work Ben, Oli, Steffen and the Sona team have already helped over 100,000 frontline workers schedule shifts, and we know so many more will appreciate smarter software that enables their work ” Niki Pezeshki, General Partner at Felicis

As we continue to innovate, our mission remains clear: to transform the outdated tools that have hindered Care enterprises in the past and usher in a new era of intelligent WFM that drives efficiency, employee wellbeing, and, ultimately, the delivery of exceptional care

Steffen Wulff Petersen Sona CEO and Co-Founder

5. A trustworthy partnership for all our UK customers

Our partners have consistently highlighted how

Sona co-founders Ben Dixon Steffen Wulff Petersen and Oli Johnson

Care Home Residents Celebrate National Beer Day

During her 100th birthday party she

asked what her secret to a long life was She responded: Brandy and lemonade every day

Ethel was joined by family, friends, fellow residents and staff at Bannatyne Lodge Care Home on Manor Way Peterlee for the celebration

Entertainer Joe Armstrong put a show for the guests performing

She

“We were

Added Value Enterprises - Sustainable Solutions for Social Care

York Care Home Residents Enjoy A Taste Of The Caribbean

Sustainable solutions for Social Care.

Social care organisations have a lot on their plate without a supply chain review getting in the way We collaborate with social care organisations and care homes across the country, taking care of the time-consuming details, and achieving the good value they deserve

With a robust, ethical, highly traceable supply chain, we deliver expert food, beverage, and non-food purchasing solutions that save time and money That means more time to focus on what matters, like supporting patient wellbeing with exceptional quality produce

Let's achieve new efficiencies today Sustainable sourcing for social care organisations and care homes.

We know how important sourcing is to social care organisations and care homes You need to know where your food, beverages and non-food are coming from, but that often means paying more than you should

At AVE, we don t believe that there should ever be a choice between ethics and value We offer sustainable sourcing that is good for the planet and your bottom line Social care purchasing.

Social care organisations choose us as their partner because we know the particular requirement of this challenging field We deliver a lean robust supply chain that works for your patients and people In a busy market we cut through the obscurity and complicated language to find the deals that matter to you achieving the quality you deserve at prices you didn't know were possible

How's that for a healthy supply chain? Your social care purchasing partner.

Achieve lean, robust food and non-food supply for your social care business or care home Our purchasing experts have spent years working in the social care sector, identifying the particular needs of people in this challenging field and delivering on time every time Sustainable produce, better prices and the quality you deserve Social care food management consultancy. inspire healthcare chefs and catering staff with quality menus and recipes that your patients will love Our food management consultants have worked with health and social care organisations and care homes across the UK, crafting bespoke menus that deliver on price and taste We'll even help you navigate the tricky territory of special diets and allergens with ease Social care in-house catering solutions.

Catering can be tricky to go at alone Why not partner up? Trust us to lend a specialist hand across every aspect of your food operation, and guarantee the best results - safety and sustainability assured

Hospice UK’s Max Watson Recognised In King’s Birthday Honours

Professor Max Watson Director of Project ECHO at Hospice UK has been awarded an MBE for his contribution to palliative care medicine

Alongside his role at Hospice UK, Max is a Palliative Medicine

Consultant at Western Trust Omagh and holds honorary positions at St Margaret’s Hospice, Taunton, St John’s Medical School, Bangalore, Queens University Belfast and Princess Alice Hospice Surrey Max’s clinical work has made huge contributions to the sector At Princess Alice Hospice Max developed the European Certificate in Essential Palliative Care which has now been running for over 20 years and has been completed by more than 20,000 clinicians across the UK and internationally A pioneer of the use of bedside ultrasound in palliative care, he created the Focused Abdominal Sonography Program in palliative care ultrasound which has trained around 400 doctors and nurses

In his current role at Omagh Hospital Max has addressed challenges in consultant recruitment in rural areas developing an Integrated Care Fellowship programme to locally train up consultants in palliative care and care of the elderly medicine The program has been running for eight months and picked up by several areas across the UK facing similar recruitment gaps He has also supported the Hospice Friendly Hospitals program in Dublin improving the delivery of palliative care in acute hospitals across Ireland

Beyond his clinical work Max has edited multiple editions of the Oxford Handbook of Palliative and End of Life Care and published 10 books on palliative care and oncology

His work with universities includes supporting the University of Ulster in their bid to become a medical

school in palliative care teaching and delivering undergraduate teaching on breaking bad news at Queen s University Belfast For 18 years Max was responsible for the mandatory training in palliative care, ethics and breaking bad news for all F2 doctors in Northern Ireland Hospice UK is the national charity for hospice and end of life care Here Max

Hickathrift House Honours Carers For National Carers’ Week

Colangelo had put together a wonderful spread of pastries for everyone to enjoy Before the event residents their loved ones and other staff members created a gratitude tree full of memories and thank-you notes that carers read out at the event Residents also gave thanks by giving handmade cards and raising a glass to the carers

Unlocking Innovation and Collaboration: The Care & Occupational Therapy Show

The Care & Occupational Therapy Show, scheduled for July 17th at Westpoint Exeter is poised to be a pivotal event in the fields of care and occupational therapy With an extensive lineup of CPD-accredited seminars keynote speakers networking opportunities and expert exhibitors this event offers a comprehensive platform for professionals to explore the latest trends exchange ideas and foster collaborations

At the heart of the event are the CPD-accredited seminars and keynote speeches which promise to provide attendees with invaluable insights and knowledge Renowned experts will take the stage to address pressing issues share innovative strategies and discuss emerging trends shaping the future of care and therapy From advancements in assistive technologies to holistic approaches to patient care attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of their professions

Networking

expert exhibitors showcasing the latest products services, and solutions

From state-of-the-art assistive devices to innovative therapeutic interventions, attendees have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of offerings from leading industry providers The exhibition serves as a hub for discovering cutting-edge technologies exploring new approaches to patient care and staying abreast of industry developments

Furthermore the event caters to professionals at every stage of their career journey from seasoned practitioners to students and newcomers to the field For students and recent graduates the show offers valuable insights into the profession, career guidance, and networking opportunities to kickstart their careers For established professionals it presents a platform to stay updated on the latest advancements, expand their knowledge base, and connect with peers to drive continuous improvement and innovation in their practice

The Care & Occupational Therapy Show is a must-attend event for professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve in the dynamic fields of care and occupational

Patient Hygiene Wipes Promote An Individualised Approach To Cleansing For Those Receiving Care

Unigloves Rebrands Its Derma Shield Workplace Skincare System

The Importance of Nutrition and Hydration in a Care Home Setting

By Rob Henry, Head of Culinary Solutions and Compliance

assistance with eating and drinking skills as well as the provision of meals

With that in mind, it s essential that you re not only aware of the food and drink regulations in place but how you can build on these to improve your offering and services within a care home environment WHAT HAPPENS IF RESIDENTS DON’T RECEIVE THE RIGHT NUTRITION?

With age malnutrition can become more of a concern It s estimated that around 1 in 10 people over the age of 65 are either malnourished, or at risk Changes that the elderly go through can lead to things like a diminished appetite or even a loss of interest in food not to mention

health conditions or changing health needs that can also impact the amount of nutrition a person receives It s important to remember that residents may be a healthy weight but could still not be getting the right nutrients they need Other signs of malnutrition might include things like muscle weakness feeling tired increased falls or even poor wound healing

What s more older people will find it more difficult to absorb vitamin D through sunlight, and so this must be considered in their diet

Similarly older adults can also be a higher risk of becoming dehydrated as they may not recognise the feeling of thirst the way they used to FOOD AND DRINK REGULATIONS FOR CARE HOMES

The Health and Social Care Act of 2008 was brought in to ensure all care home settings registered with the Care Quality Commission and complied with its requirements It’s deemed to be one of the most significant reforms of social care in decades

In particular, Regulation 14 states that the nutritional and hydration needs of residents must be met WHAT CARE HOMES CAN DO

With that in mind it’s important that care homes have the right measures in place to keep residents as healthy as possible when it comes to nutrition and hydration Here are some tips on how carers and kitchen staff can work together to further improve the system in place

Regular assessments: Every resident will have different needs and so by

carrying out frequent assessments you can determine more accurately whether residents are getting what they need from their current meals and drinks This also gives you the chance to identify

Personalised plans:

to allergies medical conditions and also flavour and texture preferences

• Ongoing education: It’s hugely important to carry out regular

and

or malnourishment It also means they

to help residents improve their health and wellbeing

Emotional support and reassurance In some cases residents may hold back on eating or drinking because of worries with incontinence It’s absolutely pivotal that carers can give the right emotional support and are able to reassure residents on this topic

Nutrition and Hydration Essential To Residents’ Health and Wellbeing

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

The Importance of Proper Laundr y Practices in Care Environments

Laundry is one of the major cleaning and hygiene challenges for care homes

For care homes maintaining impeccable cleanliness is more than a routine task; it is a vital responsibility The elderly and those with compromised health are particularly susceptible to infections making rigorous hygiene standards essential Professional laundry systems are engineered to meet these stringent requirements ensuring that every piece of linen from bed sheets to residents' clothing is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized

Unlike domestic machines commercial laundry systems are designed to handle large volumes with consistent efficacy They maintain precise water temperatures and use specialized detergents capable of eradicating harmful pathogens This level of thoroughness is crucial in environments where the risk of infection is high MINIMISING INFECTIONS AND CROSS-CONTAMINATION

Infection control is a critical concern in care homes Pathogens such as MRSA E coli and norovirus pose significant threats to residents Professional laundry systems play a key role in mitigating these risks by incorporating advanced features designed to prevent cross-contamination Barrier washers for instance have separate compartments for dirty and clean laundry ensuring that contaminants are contained and do not spread to freshly laundered items

Programmable wash cycles in these systems can be tailored to different textile types and soil levels, optimizing the disinfection process Furthermore innovations like ozone technology enhance sanitization while allowing for lower temperature washes, preserving fabric quality and extending the life of linens THE ROLE OF TRAINING AND SAFETY

Effective laundry management in care homes extends beyond the machines themselves Proper training for staff is critical to ensure that laundry processes are carried out safely and effectively Understanding how to use detergents correctly is a key aspect of this training Professional laundry detergents are formu-

lated to be both powerful against germs and safe for sensitive skin but improper use can diminish their effectiveness or even pose safety hazards

Staff must be trained in the correct handling and dosing of these detergents to maximize their benefits while ensuring safety Additionally, training on the use of laundry equipment helps prevent operational errors and promotes adherence to hygiene protocols

SAFEGUARDING YOUR RESIDENTS

In conclusion the importance of best laundry practices in care homes cannot be overstated By implementing effective laundry procedures care facilities can safeguard the health and well-being of residents maintain a clean and hygienic environment, and ultimately enhance the quality of care provided Prioritising proper laundry practices is a fundamental aspect of upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and ensuring the comfort and safety of individuals in care homes

P&G Professional have a suite of well-known and respected products across the sector for powerful cleaning and lower operational costs

Ariel Professional Washing Powder Antibacterial is a professional detergent specially formulated to deliver excellent stain removal and deep down cleaning at low temperature Ariel Professional delivers unrivalled cleaning and antibacterial protection at low temperatures and with short washing cycles thereby reducing energy and time costs whilst still getting things clean There is also an added benefit in that many P&G Professional products have similar names and smells as their domestic ranges giving a feeling of comfort and familiarity to residents and their families

Hygiene and infection control is vital and at the top of the agenda for care homes but we can be comforted to know we are going into battle with some of the most reliable and scientifically proven products that P&G Professional have developed with their unparalleled experience of engaging with the care sector and with the most comprehensive scientific rigour

Revolutionising Care Home Laundr y: The Genius Choice

INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES

The Transformative Role of Music in Care Communities

In life where memories intertwine with the present there's a profound need for companionship understanding and support – especially for those navigating the complexities of dementia We know that Dementia isn t just a medical condition; it s a complicated journey for over 90 000 people in Scotland today marked by profound emotional upheaval and huge uncertainty As such we believe that approaches to this delicate type of care must transcend clinical protocols and embrace the little things when it comes to human experience For example music!

When the rhythm of life slows to a gentle rhythm in the quiet corridors of care facilities, music can be a powerful force and breathe vibrancy and vitality into the lives of those who need it most What we have found is that for those navigating the complexities of dementia, the role of music

surpasses mere entertainment it becomes a lifeline A conduit for connection and a source of comfort

In my time in my role I personally have witnessed first-hand the great impact of music in nurturing mental physical and emotional wellbeing among the 3 500 people benefiting from our Dementia Day Care Services every year We have all been exposed to music in some way in our lives –whether by listening to recordings playing an instrument attending concerts or dancing From lively sing-alongs to serene music therapy sessions partaking in a symphony of experiences when living with dementia can awaken hidden memories, stir dormant emotions and reignite feelings of joy and camaraderie

In fact a study comparing standard care to regular singing or music listening sessions over 10 weeks in 89 people with dementia (type not specified) music sessions improved general cognition (MMSE score) attention and executive function compared to standard care Singing appeared to evoke personal remote memories by increasing recall of names of children friends and immediate short story recall

One of our flagship programmes the Music Wellbeing Programme stands as a testament to the power of communal music-making Led by talented musicians and dedicated staff members this dementia-inclusive activity serves as a sanctuary where residents and caregivers alike gather to share stories create melodies and forge lasting connections Through familiar tunes, we witness the emergence of radiant smiles, the tapping of feet, and the stirring of long-forgotten memories, as residents reclaim moments of joy and belonging Music really does serve as a universal language for us all overcoming factors such as age cognition and physical ability

Could your centre or service partner with local entertainers or other community organisations to incorporate music within your care community? From lively dance performances to intimate acoustic sessions these

collaborative endeavours create an environment with an infectious energy, lifting spirits and fostering a sense of collective celebration

The Eric Liddell Community stands as a centre of hope, redefining the landscape of dementia care with innovation compassion, and inclusivity Our namesake – a Scottish legend, sports person and missionary – strived to create a world where no one felt isolated or alone Where every individual's journey is met with dignity and respect

Based on the substantial evidence that music offers numerous health benefits we’d highly recommend that your establishment considers introducing music entertainment and community engagement Together we can all create moments of joy connection and meaning for those who need it most

Recreo VR - Bringing a Change of Scener y to Care

Recreo VR’s innovative service has been proven to enhance the mental and social well-being of those living with dementia through person-centered virtual experiences Our headsets are a fun and exciting way to personalize care enhance activities and improve the quality of life of your residents

We partner with the Alzheimer’s Society and our service has been co-designed with those affected by dementia offering an intuitive VR interface for carers to select experiences and environments that are meaningful, engaging, and suitable for residents to enjoy In a recent evaluation of our product with over 100 people living with dementia 97% of residents engaged with our headsets 86% said they enjoyed it and wanted to access VR more in their care Our headsets also helped residents recall memories improved mood and wellbeing over

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Music for Health: Enhancing Lives Through Musical Workshops INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES

Founded in 2001 Music for Health has been making significant strides in improving the well-being of residents in Care Homes and Nursing Homes across England and Wales These workshops are thoughtfully designed to engage participants in a variety of activities including dancing with instruments singalongs and interactive quizzes

The program s multifaceted approach is particularly beneficial for residents suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's Music known for its therapeutic properties provides a stimulating environment that promotes both physical and mental activity Dancing helps improve motor skills and coordination while the rhythmic aspects of music can trigger memory and emotional responses providing a sense of familiarity and comfort

Sing-alongs create a communal atmosphere encouraging social interaction and reducing feelings of isolation The quizzes not only entertain but also stimulate cognitive function challenging the brain and helping to maintain mental acuity

Overall, Music for Health’s workshops offer a holis-

tic approach to care ensuring that elderly residents remain active engaged and socially connected By bringing the joy of music into care homes this initiative continues to make a profound impact on the lives of many fostering a sense of community and wellbeing

To expand our reach and impact Music for Health is currently recruiting more Area Directors to join our team across the United Kingdom If you have a passion for music and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others, we encourage you to contuct us and help us bring the healing power of music to more communities

Contact Carl on 07712 669456, email musicforhealthrecruitment@gmail com or visit www musicforhealthteam co uk

PLEASE MENTION THE CARER WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTISING

Activities to Share

Tired of the same old song and dance when it comes to planning engaging activities? Well fear not! Activities to Share is here to sprinkle some excitement into your daily routine

If you ve been feeling like you re stuck in a creative rut we ve got the antidote Picture this a wonderland of activity ideas free downloads that are basically the golden ticket to fun and a treasure trove of products that'll make your heart skip a beat (in a good way)

We get it – after a while even the most fantastic activities can start feeling a bit blah That's why we've scoured the corners of creativity to bring you fresh fabulous ideas that'll have you and your crew grinning from ear to ear

Our website, activitiestoshare co uk, is your go-to haven for all things fun and engaging Need a burst of

The Role Of Memor y Lane Games In Person-Centred Care Planning

Digital therapeutics can be effective and efficient tools to enhance and support care plans in many different ways including intervention and management of physical well-being cognitive stimulation emotional and mental health and clinical monitoring

Memory Lane Games as an example uses therapeutic interventions driven by specialized software that helps those living with dementia and their care teams manage specific needs and improve clinical outcomes through dementia-specific games The app is an adaptive solution which is tailored over time to individual needs More specifically it makes for more effective care delivery in the following ways

Creating Engagement by employing personalised and localised games to not only trigger positive memories but also foster improved socialisation address social isolation and improve communication and understanding of a person s likes dislikes and needs

Supporting health equity with multinational multicultural multi language localised content

Through its ava lability and portab lity the app can be employed at a moment’s notice, when it is most

Timeless Presents - Enhancing Lives Through Connection and Engagement

After her father s passing from Alzheimer s Sharon Daltrey and her husband Chris founded Timeless Presents a company devoted to encouraging engagement and communication for those living with dementia by promoting cognitive stimulation emotional engagement and sensory assistance Drawing from their personal experiences and informed by the challenges her father faced, Sharon and Chris embarked on a mission to make a difference in the lives of individuals currently living with dementia The Activity Coordinator at Forbury Residential Home had this to say “We won some prizes in a competition and our residents really enjoyed them The Curiosity Box is amazing for one of our residents who continually claps her hands Since having the Curiosity Box she has been occupied with it and engaged in a meaningful way Our residents are also loving the puzzles and coloring books Thank you so much for giving our residents a better quality of life At Timeless Presents Sharon and Chris are dedicated to developing innovative solutions that promote meaningful interaction and enhance quality of life for individuals with dementia By adopting principles discovered during her father s later stages of Alzheimer s and incorporating current research, Timeless Presents designs familiar and accessible activities that inspire reminiscence and positive practices without requiring any training For example their Sentimental Seaside Puzzle’ is a familiar activity that has been adapted to overcome sensory difficulties that those with dementia may have while incorporating a vibrant design that is familiar and may prompt conversation and reminiscence In a significant milestone Timeless Presents recently achieved accredi-

Focus Games - Game Based Training for Ever y Situation

tation from the internationally renowned Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) for three products being the first time that they had assessed any activities This accreditation underscores the company s commitment to creating dementia-inclusive products that meet the highest standards of quality and effectiveness They will be exhibiting at stand A16 at The Alzheimer s & Dementia Show on 14-15th June 2024 where you will be able to meet them see their products and get a first look at their Timeless Train Set prototype With a focus on accessibility and impact Timeless Presents aims to empower individuals with dementia and their caregivers to navigate the challenges of dementia with dignity and joy Through their innovative approach and dedication to excellence Timeless Presents is shaping the future of dementia care one meaningful interaction at a time 07936 408

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A Comprehensive Approach to Managing Falls Among Elderly Residents: A Nursing and Operational Perspective

By

As the Director of Operations and Commissioning at Langdale Care Homes, and a seasoned nurse with over 20 years in the healthcare industry, I have witnessed first-hand the challenges posed by falls among elderly residents It is a subject close to my heart, and I feel it is of utmost importance to share our comprehensive and sensitive approach to this matter

Falls can have devastating effects on the physical, mental, and emotional health of our elderly residents leading to injury hospitalisation and a decline in confidence and independence However they are not an inevitable part of ageing With effective strategies and due diligence we can significantly reduce the risk and impact of falls Our approach is rooted in individualised care Each resident is unique and so too are their risks and vulnerabilities A thorough and personalised risk assessment is the cornerstone of our falls management strategy The assessment covers a wide range of areas from physical health mobility and medication to environmental factors within the home

In terms of physical health we pay keen attention to conditions known to increase fall risk such as poor vision arthritis and neurological impairments Regular health check-ups coupled with personalised exercise programmes to improve strength and balance have proven highly effective Our team works closely with residents ensuring they feel comfortable and confident in performing these exercises

Medication can also significantly influence fall risk As a nurse I understand the complex interactions between various drugs and how they can affect balance and coordination Therefore we regularly review residents'

Fall Savers - Affordable Fall Monitoring Solutions

NURSE CALL AND FALLS

Reducing Falls with Bide

Dr Tom Adler was a GP for 30 years He often witnessed the devastating effects of accidental falls on the faller their carers and also the resource implications for the NHS and Social Care

Tom

“Falls

“Although there were many innovations

Stay Safe with Smart Wireless Nurse Call

In

increasing

of

and other more local issues which have driven up the rate of inflation over the last few years The impact of this meant that most manufacturers of electronic products had to increase their prices as costs spiralled This of course has impacted the end user The most dramatic impact has been on the Care Industry An industry that has lacked the support it desperately needs in these trying times

Courtney Thorne at the same time took a strategic decision to take a close look at our core products right down to component level the objective being to make us less vulnerable to future global supply chain issues, and to reduce the cost of each product with the amin of ensuring that we deliver the same high quality product at a cost protected price We had to ensure that this would happen without jeopar-

dising the superb levels of support we provide to our valued customer base

This ground up review involved all departments from Research and Development right through to the Field Service team (and everything in-between) This in-depth collaboration took time as we had to ensure that each and every element was refined perfected and tested to our (and our customers) rigorous requirements Whilst many organisations have limited-time or end of product line offers we are very pleased to announce a price reduction on our core Connect and Connect Health Nurse Call system ranges With flexible terms full integration with Care Apps celebrated service delivery and the most reliable and robust solution now at a new lower price there has never been a better time to talk to us about a new nurse call system For more information email us at: info@c-t co uk or see the advert on this page

Reducing nighttime falls for your loved ones

33% of accidental falls are at night

• Automatically plays voice messages to remind loved ones to take care when they wake up

• Lights up gently to help navigating in the dark

• Suitable for use at home and in care homes

EXAMPLE VOICE MESSAGES:

• “David, take your time before you stand up, we love you”

• “Don’t get out of bed Emma Press your buzzer, we’ll come and help you”

Simple installation:

1 Plug into power socket

2. Record up to 5 personalised voice messages

3. Place by bedside

Peace of mind for you, independence for your loved ones.

Tel: 0114 437 1298 Email: hello@getbide com Website: www.getbide.com

NURSE CALL AND FALLS MONITORING

PLEASE MENTION THE CARER WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTISING

Crash Mats Designed to Reduce Injuries from Bed Falls

Blaucomm Ltd - Telecommunications & Networks

Blaucomm’s Nurse Call

Messaging Service (NMS) is the market leading solution to remove the dependency on noisy nurse call panels and pagers, through its intelligent software which delivers the alerts straight to the care staff who need them Care homes are rapidly introducing smartphones for digital care planning and eMarnow the same devices can be used to receive the nurse call alerts they need for the residents under their care

Furthermore Blaucomm NMS is deeply linked into Person Centred Software MCM so call bell data is linked straight to care plans This unlocks a huge benefit to care homes to enhance the staff performance with how they accept and respond to residents which ultimately promotes better response times and visibility for management to audit their performance

The best part is that Blaucomm NMS links into your existing nurse call system - we work with all major

We find Blaucomm is a genuinely fantastic company with a reliable product

One Call Systems have developed one of the most reliable streamlined wireless nurse call systems on the market The rechargeable technology, water-resistant casings, and long-range radio capabilities set us apart

At the heart of the innovative Nursecall system is the One Call Display Panel which runs on an efficient internal radio network Designed to provide the highest level of performance and reliability The Display Panel allows staff to view live calls instantly Qualified installers will set up your system quickly and efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum benefits

With the ability to connect to the internet you can easily monitor your Home's call records from anywhere The panel is completely configurable from the display allowing you to customize your Home's settings to your preferences Trust our innovative system to provide the safety and efficiency your Home’s needs

The One Call Room Units are designed to withstand the rigours of your busy care environment There are five alternative versions - Pear push lead Pull Cords Out of Bed Door monitor and Leadless Units that you can choose from that best suit your needs

Watertight casings and fitted rechargeable batteries mean that you can rest assured that the units can be easily washed and will provide reliable service for up to 2 years on a single charge

The Call Logging system is designed to meet the safety and care requirements of Care Homes and nursing facilities The digital solution ensures complete and accurate logging of every call to prove evidence of care This invaluable tool ensures the safety of your residents

The Call Logging system is a must-have for any Care Home that wants to ensure they are providing the best possible care

Onecall provides the ability to monitor response times attendance duration and which Carer has attended which call You can be sure that you have complete oversight of your care provision Not only does this system provide valuable evidence of care, but it also helps to motivate and encourage staff to continue providing an exceptional level of care

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Mainteno Facilities Management Software

Envivo Group is at the forefront of care and support sector driving innovation that enables people to live lives full of choices and opportunities They have 202 locations that are now using Mainteno Facilities Management software

“Our experience with Mainteno at TLC/Envivo Group has been really positive already Since its roll-out it has shown real and measurable benefits and has had a marked impact on the workload and assurance of our operations team

"We can now raise issues whether large or minor almost the instant they are spotted We can denote the priority with which they need to be tackled and track the progress of works to rectify them It has reduced almost completely the need to be directly contacting people to resolve issues which was an almost daily occurrence It has been obvious that the streamlined approach that it provides helps in prioritising works for maintenance teams and contractors, gives them plenty of detailed information as to the

exact issue and has given us an evidence base to show that issues are resolved in a consistent and effective timeframe

"The details that are available once a job is logged are invaluable to us as managers to assure ourselves that issues are not forgotten

PASS supports over 1 000 care providers every day giving them access to market leading care management tools hand in hand with unlimited 24/7/365 support from our dedicated and friendly PASS team

Assured by NHS Transformation Directorate PASS provides a secure platform that allows you to plan record and evidence the care you deliver The only assured solution built specifically for the home care sector it provides comprehensive real-time functionality and allows you to share progress against outcomes with customisable exportable reports CARE PLANNING AND ROSTERING FROM A SINGLE PLATFORM

To meet the wider needs of the PASS community

All-in-one PASS has recently been launched bringing advanced rostering functionality to our established digital care planning platform As a result advanced staff scheduling payroll and invoicing functionality is now seamlessly linked with care planning and reporting reducing the technical complexity risk and overhead associated with integrating two separate systems

As a result PASS now provides an all-in-one suite of digital care management tools available from a single platform designed to:

Save you time

• Increase the efficiency of your teams

Improve the quality of care

Deliver better outcomes

INTEGRATED HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE

Our commitment to the continual evolution of PASS is further illustrated by the addition of GP

Connect The first product of its type to offer this feature PASS is still one of only a handful of digital care management solutions to have completed this NHS Digital integration, and is the only one offering it to the home care market

PASS GP Connect provides authorised social care staff with realtime access to their client s GP records

It makes medical information available when and where it is needed leading to improvements in both care safety and outcomes

Visibility of allergies vaccinations and medications especially useful for clients unable to reliably share their personal information

Using medical information to inform care planning

Ensuring that the right medication is delivered to the right person in the timeliest manner In one case this allowed the administration of antibiotics on a Friday evening aiding the service user s swift recovery from nfection

Available to all PASS users at no additional cost, PASS GP Connect is significantly more efficient than waiting for a GP response It s also a positive step forward on the path to the DHSC s goal for widespread digitally enabled care and is in full alignment with their ambition for joined up care for everyone Get in touch

www everylifetechnologies com hello@everylifetechnoloiges com

Alleviating Pain in Care Homes - Prevalence of Pain in Care Homes

Over 425 000 people live in Care Homes in the UK Many have significant longterm health problems Some 65% have dementia, reduced cognitive functioning, and difficulties with communication Studies estimate that at least one-third of the Care Home population live with, and experience pain

Care Home residents with cognitive and speech disorders are at a higher risk of living with pain and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) that affect muscles bones and joints

The Care Act 2014 emphasises the importance of measuring and improving the wellbeing of social care users However, there is no standard method of measuring quality of life in Care Homes nor are there ways to measure aspects of health such as pain, anxiety, or depression

The consensus is that pain is often under-recognised and under-treated in care homes

However pain is a subjective experience and cannot be adequately measured which is why mainstream approaches rely on self-reporting A key challenge to carers managing these experiences is the high proportion of residents who live with dementia

THERMAL IMAGING – A NON-INVASIVE OBJECTIVE SOLUTION

Thermal imaging or thermography is a non-invasive complementary diagnostic approach that creates a high-definition thermal map of your body (thermogram) Thermograms illustrate temperature patterns consistent with inflammation Inflammation is a vital part of the immune system s response to injury and infec-

tion

The appearance and location of thermal patterns helps to identify regions and sources of pain based on levels and differences in temperature and hence thermography can be used to diagnose pain objectively - invaluable when the resident is unable to communicate effectively

Thermography can also detect the source of pain and inflammation surrounding bone fractures entrapped nerves muscular trigger points and arthritis It enables the early detection of pressure injuries before any visible signs and provides diagnostic information indispensable in helping to arrive at identifying the sources of pain and an accurate diagnosis

Early detection of the source of the problem allows practitioners and residents to design a proactive treatment plan with specific interventions and treatments to mitigate the process of inflammation Thermography is also a highly effective tool for monitoring if a treatment protocol is working

Bunn et al in a meta-analysis of studies in 2020 found that thermography had such high diagnostic utility that they propose thermography as a first line MSD detection tool

By seeing what the human eye cannot see Thermidas thermal imaging solutions can assist carers and clinicians in locating and creating optimal treatment plans and alleviating pain

Stephen Taylor Thermidas UK

Book a free demo at www thermidas fi

Data Protection And Cyber Security: Next Steps For Care Homes

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

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Debt Financing and Social Care

RECRUITMENT & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Debt Financing and Social Care

(CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE)

There are an increasing number of debt financing options open to care providers from alternative lenders through to grants In Kent for example Kent County Council is offering an interest-free loan to fund capital investment and growth projects Whilst these schemes will often require match-funding or come with a demonstratable job creation requirement they can offer a valuable way to reduce bank funding

Care businesses should always take specialist and independent advice based on their own specific situation before considering which lender to approach for borrowing or taking external investment Rachel Emmerson is a Partner and Abbey Watkins an Accountant in the Funding Team at Kreston Reeves Kreston Reeves offers accountancy, tax and business advice to a wide range of clients Visit www krestonreeves com

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 health-care 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 808227 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 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