The Carer Digital - Issue #208

EDITOR'S VIEWPOINT

Welcome to the latest edition of The Carer Digital!

Editor Peter Adams

REFORMING THE CQC: A CALL TO ACTION

The recent call from campaigners for urgent reform of the Care Quality Commission s (CQC) social care rating system echoes the long-standing concerns that have plagued the sector for years

Their voices have grown louder following the government's decision to abolish Ofsted's one and two word school inspection grades a move seen as a victory for fairness and transparency in education

The parallels between the flaws in Ofsted's system and those in the CQC’s current approach are according to campaigners striking Both systems have been criticised for being reductive inconsistent and often out of touch with the realities faced by those on the ground

The CQC s interim leader recently issued a public apology in response to a scathing assessment by the Health Secretary who declared the organisation unfit for purpose This acknowledgment while necessary is only the tip of the iceberg

As set out in our lead article, Dr Penny Dash s report from earlier this summer painted a grim picture: low inspection rates, inspectors lacking the necessary clinical expertise, and a troubling lack of consistency in assessments

It is rather shocking to learn that one in five health and social care providers remain unrated, and many others have not been inspected for several years Care England has rightly criticized the CQC for its over-reliance on outdated data, lack of transparency and the glaring inconsistencies that undermine the credibility of its assessments

Furthermore legal firm Shakespeare Martineau’s revelation that CQC prosecutions have surged by 700% in the past decade could be an indication of an organisation increasingly resorting to “punitive measures” rather than fostering improvement

The fact that these prosecutions have more than tripled in the last five years compared to the previous period suggests a watchdog that is reactive rather than proactive a worrying trend that highlights the urgent need for reform

The need for overhaul is underscored by a report from Marie Curie which found that a third of terminally ill people in England and Wales experience severe or overwhelming pain in their final week of life

Families report harrowing difficulties in securing joined-up support from health and care professionals a gap in care that is unacceptable in a developed society

Adding to this the UK hospice sector which plays a crucial role in end-of-life care, is facing a collective deficit of £77 million for the financial year 2023-24

Hospice UK has called for £60 million in government support to cover the pay rise in England, but these pleas have so far gone unanswered This financial shortfall, coupled with the CQC's regulatory shortcomings, threatens to exacerbate an already precarious situation

Urgent reform is not just desirable it is, as campaigners say, essential The social care sector which supports some of the most vulnerable members of society deserves a regulatory body that is transparent consistent and equipped with the expertise needed to drive improvements Anything less is an abdication of responsibility

I can always be contacted at editor@thecareruk com and encourage our readers to sign up for our bi-weekly digital newsletter at www thecareruk com and follow us on social media for all the latest news

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Reform “Unfair” Social Care Inspection Rating System, Campaigners Urge

(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)

The ICG argues that this does not give the full picture of the provider and can have a detrimental impact on the operator and their business DEVASTATING IMPACT

ICG Chair Mike Padgham said: “The impact of a damning rating on an operator can be devastating

“We know of business owners who have closed down and suffered very real anguish after their operation was rated as ‘inadequate’, for example

“A ‘requires improvement’ or an ‘inadequate’ rating can unnecessarily push operators to the brink and in some cases, out of the industry altogether

“The terms are too short and brief and do not allow any room for explanation Either of those two ratings can seriously damage a business s reputation and cause them to close with the accompanying pressure and distress to the owners

We are not looking to weaken inspection in any way and are committed to poor examples of care being identified But what we need is a partnership approach to the inspection process and far more empathy when organisations are being reviewed

“In so many cases, these are people s livelihoods the CQC is inspecting, and they have to appreciate that a swift, one or two-word rating can finish them overnight We need a much more comprehensive and balanced rating system where efforts are made to support providers to improve shortcomings, rather than the ‘them and us’ confrontational relationship that can exist at the moment ”

The ICG says the reform of the rating system is just one aspect of overall reform of the CQC that is necessary

LACK OF CONSISTENCY

A report earlier this summer from Dr Penny Dash who is carrying out a review into the CQC revealed low levels of inspections a lack of clinical expertise amongst those conducting inspections and a lack of consistency One in five health and social care providers had not received a rating from the CQC whilst others had not been inspected for several years Care England has criticised the CQC for its over-reliance on outdated data lack of transparency in their regulatory approach and vast inconsistencies between assessments Mr Padgham added: “We want to work with the CQC to develop a good regulatory framework that respects both service users and service providers, which ends the duplication of inspection with local authority and NHS inspections and ends the “them and us” feeling that many providers have when dealing with the body

“It has to be a partnership a partnership that at the end of the day serves everyone We share the common aim of providing the best care to people and should be working together to achieve that PROSECUTIONS SURGE BY 700%

The healthcare watchdog is prosecuting care homes and registered providers more than ever before in its

15-year history new analysis from full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau has revealed

When comparing 2009-2013 and 2019-2023, prosecutions by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) – which was established in 2009 to regulate and inspect health and social care providers in England – surged by 700%, from 11 cases to 88 They also more than trebled when compared with the five years spanning 20142018 during which there were 25 cases

In addition the total fines levied by the CQC have also seen a dramatic rise Between 2009 and 2013, prosecuted care homes and registered providers were fined a total of £650 973 However in the five years leading up to 2023, the figure skyrocketed to more than £10 6 million

Jordan Glackin healthcare partner at Shakespeare Martineau said: The significant increase in prosecutions reflects a growing emphasis on accountability in the care sector while the substantial fines imposed illustrate the severe financial consequences of failing to meet regulatory requirements”

FINES ESCALATED

The analysis also examined the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the CQC s regulatory actions

Comparing pre-pandemic years (2018 and 2019) to the pandemic years (2020 and 2021), prosecutions increased by 63% This trend continued post-pandemic (2022 and 2023) with prosecutions rising by an additional 22%

Correspondingly the total fines paid escalated from £922 115 pre-pandemic to £4 9 million during the pandemic, further increasing to £5 1 million in the post-pandemic period

Jordan added: The CQC had virtually stopped all inspections – except in emergencies – during the pandemic and so, as a result of the backlog, an increase is prosecutions once normality started to resume was to be expected

“With more catching up likely to be done and the sector being placed firmly under a microscope during the pandemic particularly in the eyes of the public we expect this activity to increase further – especially as some cases have taken more than three years to be brought forward ”

“The stakes are high and the cost of non-compliance is more than just financial and reputational – it’s about the quality of care provided to some of the most vulnerable members of our society

APOLOGY TO PROVIDERS

Last month, the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) Kate Terroni, Interim CEO, issued “an apology” to providers and set out their priorities for rebuilding trust in CQC

In the first of a regular update on the progress they are making, Ms Terroni shared some of the steps the CQC has taken discussing the CQC s implementation plans around its priority areas of improvement

These, according to Ms Terroni, include addressing its “relationship management”, assessment frequency and the provider handbook the regulator has been asking for input on of late Full details of Ms Terroni’s statement can be found here

Employment Law and the Care Industr y

Where we are now, and what challenges does the future hold?

Hannah Strawbridge is an experienced Employment Solicitor and Tribunal advocate She is also the founder and owner of the award-winning Han Law Co (www hanlawco com)

Employment law in the UK is a huge and complex area of legislation regulations and case law which constantly changes It’s not an exaggeration to say that I could write a book about how employment law impacts the care industry in both a strategic sense and on a daily operational basis Here we cover the key areas making the most impact both now, and following the changes soon to be introduced under the Labour government

I previously worked in-house as an employment solicitor for one of the largest care home providers in the UK During that time it became obvious that there was a constant battle between safeguarding legislation and employment law and that it was difficult for care home managers and HR personnel to navigate through both sets of laws and principles, which often clashed In particular, employment law often asks an employer to act reasonably (which is not defined) and it can be challenging for care managers to balance this with safeguarding, as well as their moral and common law duty of care towards their employees Arguably changes proposed by the new Labour government may add to these challenges for employers whilst providing employees more employment protection

Some specific issues are relevant to daily operations and centre around minimum wage compliance working hours regulations zerohour contracts, the rights of part-time and agency workers and gender

pay gap reporting

MINIMUM WAGE

One of the most contentious issues in the care industry revolves around minimum wage compliance, particularly concerning the payment for travel time between appointments for home care workers

The law is clear: travel time must be paid if it forms part of the worker’s duties However reports indicate that many care workers are still not compensated adequately effectively reducing their income below the National Minimum Wage This not only violates the law, but also exacerbates staff turnover as low wages fail to reflect the demands and responsibilities of the job

WORKING HOURS AND BREAKS

The Working Time Regulations state that workers should not exceed on average, 48 hours per week, unless they voluntarily opt out However care workers often find themselves working long hours due to staffing shortages and the demands of providing continuous care The law also mandates rest breaks and daily rest periods but these can be difficult to implement in a sector where the urgency of care often overrides legal entitlements Ensuring compliance while maintaining high standards of care is a delicate balancing act for care providers

ZERO-HOUR CONTRACTS

Zero-hour contracts are prevalent in the care sector offering flexibility but at the same time creating insecurity for workers These contracts mean that workers are not guaranteed any hours which can leave them vulnerable to fluctuations in demand And whilst some workers appreciate the flexibility others experience financial instability and a lack of job security Under current UK employment law workers on zero-hour contracts have fewer rights compared to their full-time counterparts particularly in areas such as sick pay and holiday entitlement

PART-TIME AND AGENCY WORKERS

Part-time and agency workers form a significant part of the care workforce The Part-time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations (2000) require that part-time workers receive the same contractual terms (pro rata) as full-time workers, but enforcement can be challenging Similarly agency workers have specific rights under the Agency Workers Regulations (2010), such as equal treatment after 12 weeks of work in the same role However the reliance on agency staff can lead to inconsistencies in care and complications in managing worker rights across different employment statuses

GENDER PAY GAP REPORTING

Employers with 250 or more employees must report their gender

pay gap data and publish it on their website The gender pay gap is a measure of the percentage difference in pay between all male and female workers

An article in the King’s Fund reported that in the social care sector in 2022-23 31% of senior management were male but overall the workforce was only 19% male Although from 2018 to 2023 the gender pay gap fell across all health and social care roles the gender pay gap is persisting For example health professionals who are male were still paid 10 2% more than female workers in 2023 The gender pay gap remains an issue within the sector and many of the more forwardthinking organisations are looking at ways to tackle the issue

So that’s a snapshot of how employment law affects the care sector now How will this change under our new Labour government?

One of Labour s most weighty proposals for the sector is the abolition of zero-hour contracts Instead the party has suggested introducing a new legal framework where workers would be entitled to a contract with guaranteed hours after 12 weeks of continuous service

This change could provide stability for care workers However it would also mean care providers would have to rethink staffing models, probably increasing costs and administrative work

Labour has pledged to enhance workers’ rights across the board which shouldn t come as a shock (the clue is in the name) however this needs looking at Promises include all workers receiving holiday pay sick pay and protection against unfair dismissal from day one of employment These changes would mark a significant shift from the current law, which states that unfair dismissal rights only attract from 2 years service This will increase risk and litigation for care providers and will mean they need to review contracts and recruitment procedures to ensure the probationary clauses in particular are watertight

Finally Labour also proposes a National Care Service (NCS) which includes plans to ensure fair wages for care workers, potentially setting sector-specific minimum wages above the National Minimum Wage

The creation of an NCS could standardise pay and conditions across the sector addressing the pay gaps that currently exist However implementing this system would be complex and costly needing careful consideration of funding and resources

The changes outlined above are likely to bring in challenges for all employers within the sector and will certainly require careful thought, planning and resource to make sure risk is minimised without jeopardising organisational strategy and growth For some these changes will be positive and for others not so My advice would be to always seek guidance from an expert employment lawyer if you have any concerns about implementing any of the above changes

Campaigner’s Open Letter To Prime Minister

“It is time that the new Government acknowledged that there is a problem and showed that

October budget but instead be as bold in his reform of social care as Nye Bevan was when he set up the NHS, in 1948

In the letter Mr Padgham writes: Without proper support for social care and the creation of a sector that can offer care, when and where it is needed, the NHS will stay on its knees

“There are 1 6m people who cannot get the care they need and many thousands in hospital because there is no social care available for them This is our mothers and fathers our aunts and uncles brothers sisters and friends This is a scandal that shames us as a country For

and

turn never comes “We must switch resources from the NHS into social care to pay staff properly and fill the 131 000 staff vacancies to give care to those who can’t access it and to free up hospital beds This would eventually save the NHS money

Mr Padgham says the social care sector was disappointed that Labour went back on a pre-election promise to introduce the cap on social care costs but was still prepared to give the new administration

In a recent speech Mr Starmer said the country

to

for long

but in his

Mr Padgham adds social care has suffered

pain with no sign of any good The sector has suffered 30 years of cuts with the result that it is now in crisis People clapped for social care workers as they fought alongside their NHS counterparts to contain Covid-19 But where is their reward for doing that for not going on strike when others did and for looking after our most vulnerable?”

Mr Padgham says social care providers are eager to discuss solutions with the Government, adding: “We know government alone cannot solve all the issues The social care sector has a wealth of knowledge experience and practical solutions to put at the government’s disposal and stands ready to offer support You have shown with your appointment of James Timpson to the post of prisons minister that you can take a creative approach to finding solutions I suggest you look at something similar for social care and begin change swiftly to restore confidence

Skydiving For Charity – Not Ner vous, But Excited

The deputy manager of a Taunton care home says she is not nervous, but excited” about the charity skydive she plans to do with a colleague at 10am on 12 September in a bid to raise money to help their home buy a minibus for residents living with dementia

Sophie Norman 33 and Sue Derrick 58 will be making the 10 000ft plunge watched by some of the residents and colleagues from The Rectory as well as friends and family members

The pair have pledged to raise £1 000 towards to the purchase of a minibus for the home and say they also hope to contribute to Alzheimer s Society to support their much-needed research into dementia the heartbreaking condition which affects all the people they support at work

Sue Derrick already has experience of skydiving having done a dive on her 50th birthday, also in aid of Alzheimer s Society, and says she absolutely loved it

Sophie Norman said: “I would say I’m not nervous but excited – however I expect that may change once I m standing in the open doorway of the plane

“I feel skydiving is not for everyone because it does have that fear factor and it’s something that tests

your confidence but we re hoping this will be a fruitful fundraising effort because we re keen to make a meaningful contribution towards the purchase of The Rectory s own minibus – it will be so lovely for the ladies and gents we support ”

Taunton residents Sophie and Sue have worked at The Rectory a White Care Group care home for nine months and five years respectively and had no hesitation in identifying their motives for fundraising

Sophie said “A new minibus will enable us to give our wonderful residents greater access to the wider community and take them to the beach and the zoo for example

“Keeping active and part of their local community is really important for their well-being so we re keeping our fingers crossed that we make our £1,000 target ”

Sue added: Having our own minibus will further enable us to ensure the people we support are living their best possible lives

We aim for The Rectory to be very home-from-home and once we ve got this vehicle we ll be able to take residents out and about more easily which will be great ”

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Catering for Residents with Dysphagia

By Rob Henry, Head of Culinary

WHAT IS DYSPHAGIA?

Dysphagia is a medical condition that makes swallowing food and drink more difficult Depending on the severity some textures may be more difficult to swallow, or somebody may have lost the ability to swallow at all Regardless this can make mealtimes much more difficult, which is why care home caterers must know about this condition and how to support those who have it

A few conditions can cause dysphagia including cancer head injuries a stroke or dementia Age can also play a role in developing this condition, meaning there could be a higher likelihood of some residents suffering from this EFFECTS OF DYSPHAGIA

Dysphagia doesn t just affect mealtimes – it can also:

• Impact on quality of life: If somebody is no longer able to eat and drink as they ve been able to they may become withdrawn and develop a low mood The change can be difficult to get to grips with which is why supporting residents through their dietary transition and making sure they re properly catered for is so important

• Lead to malnutrition and dehydration: A lack of food and drink due to not being able to swallow or chew properly can mean that residents aren’t properly hydrated or receiving enough nutrition This can result in lower energy levels, and in more extreme cases, can also lead to further health complications

Cause choking: Without specialist catering somebody with dysphagia may not be able to swallow their food

which can be a choking hazard WHAT IS THE IDDSI FRAMEWORK?

The IDDSI framework sets the standard for serving textured foods and thickened liquids to those with dysphagia who have trouble chewing and swallowing Using this framework caterers in the care industry can determine which foods and drinks would be easiest for people with this condition to consume IDDSI consists of eight levels ranging from 0 to 7 with drinks ranging from 0 (thin) to 4 (extremely thick) and foods ranging from 3 (liquidised) to 7 (regular and easy to chew) These indicate the texture and thickness of foods and drinks and give some steer as to which ones would be safest for somebody with dysphagia to consume

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR CATERING TO RESIDENTS WITH DYSPHAGIA

When you re preparing to cater for residents with dysphagia there are a few extra things you might need to consider These include:

• Training your staff on the IDDSI framework: Ensuring your staff understand the framework what it means and how to apply it is crucial Holding training sessions on this can make sure everybody is on the same page when it comes to catering to the needs of residents with dysphagia

Knowing when to modify the menu to resident needs: Once your team are trained on the IDDSI framework this must be implemented into your catering practices This should involve assessing each resident’s dietary needs to see if they require modifications and monitoring this over time in case further changes are needed Getting in the correct nutrients and fluids Alongside modifying diets based on what is easiest for residents to consume you should be ensuring all residents are properly hydrated and receiving a balanced and nutritious diet Whether their food is liquidised regular or somewhere in between hydration and nutrition must never be reduced even though you might need to alter the way these are offered to residents

Making mealtimes more enjoyable: If somebody has been living with dysphagia without a modified diet they may need some extra encouragement at mealtimes once the modifications have been made Try making mealtimes social introducing different flavours or recipes and regularly rotating menu options to keep them interested and more likely to finish their food

Supporting residents with dysphagia is a key duty of caterers in the care industry and can have a huge impact on their wellbeing health and quality of life Therefore it s vital that your catering team are aware of the signs of the condition and how the IDDSI framework can be used to prescribe a better approach to their mealtimes

RMBI Care Co.’s Older Persons Support Adviser

Walks Nearly 200 Miles To Combat Cancer

Hazel Salter, Older Persons Support Adviser at RMBI Care Co has completed an impressive 190mile walk with her family from Stockport, in Manchester to London The aim was to raise £10,000 and distribute that amount to charities within the Royal Manchester Children s Hospital which offer a mix of different services to their families

She says: “Our walk was designed to represent the tough physical mental and emotional challenges faced every day by children and families walking their own cancer journey

Hazel accompanied her brothers Mark and Shane, walking in a single file along A roads and powering through uphill pathways for 10 days The initiative was planned and led by Shane whose 10-year-old son Hughie was diagnosed last year with a lymphoblastic lymphoma, an aggressive blood-related cancer

“This came as a huge shock for us,” Shane recalls We have been overwhelmed and incredibly grate-

Social Care TV

Social Care TV continue to fly the flag for highest quality online training for Health and Social Care, after unwavering commitment to excellence within the sector for over 25 years

Their widely-used health and social care specific courses - produced and edited in-house - are expertly designed to make learning engaging informative and therefore highly effective for learners

Accredited by CPD and endorsed by Skills for Care training with Social Care TV is quality assured comprehensive and relevant

As one of the leading online training providers in the health and social care sector in the UK they supply training for local authorities recruitment agencies, care home groups and other health and social care organisations

Their feature-rich Manager platform has further been enhanced this year with the introduction of several new Manager tools designed to aid with compliance reporting and trainee management Features now available include:

Compliance Dashboard with Traffic Light System Downloadable Trainee Matrix Custom Bundles

ful for the support, care and medical treatment my son has received and will continue to receive for a number of years to come at the Royal Manchester Children s Hospital We have also received continuous support from lots of charitable organisations that support parents children and families within the ward Regarding the 190-mile walk to the capital he adds “London is my son’s favourite place on the planet so it seemed fitting that our journey should end there ” Older Persons Support Adviser Hazel Salter says: “Hughie’s stays on the children’s cancer ward were made so much more bearable by the support received from a number of charities and small organisations They do so much to help parents and families of a child with cancer from providing overnight bags for parents full of essentials (including blankets and toiletries) to snack packs and fruit in ward kitchens, and pizza Fridays for everyone on the ward

Bulk Uploads

• Bulk Enrolment Onto Custom Bundles

Course Enrolment Notifications

Course Reminders

SCTV regularly release new and updated high-quality courses Previews for all courses can be viewed at: Courses - Social Care TV (www social-care tv/courses/course-details)

To enhance their learners' experience further they have created free comprehensive subject-specific workbooks which were rolled out across all courses this year This unique addition provides excellent value and a fully robust training package

SCTV are delighted to have won several awards over the last 12 months including:

• Best Online Health and Social Care Learning Platform’ – Global Health & Pharma Social Care Awards 2024

• ‘CPD Provider of the Year’ – The CPD Awards

Social Care Training Provider of the Year - Corporate Livewire

Innovation & Excellence Awards

Gold standard customer service remains a core staple of the business, with expert support and guidance provided via telephone, email and live chat They place great importance on the training and development of their customer services team to ensure that they continue to provide a personal friendly and knowledgeable service

Their much-loved Care Worker of the Month award recognises and

rewards the selfless dedication shown by care workers across the UK and they proudly support the Care Workers Charity who aim to advance the financial professional and mental wellbeing of social care workers

SCTV believe that high quality training should be accessible to all and offer regular free courses which include a digital certificate accessible via their website

The company stands behind a clear mission and set of values which define their ethos and their dedication to both the Care Sector and those within it These can be viewed at: Mission Statement and Core Values - Social Care TV (www social-care tv/about/mission-statement-and-core-values)

Social Care TV are a responsible business, committed to ensuring that their actions have a positive impact on their employees customers the wider health and social care community and the environment

Above all SCTV consistently strive to make a meaningful contribution to the wellbeing of those being cared for

For more information please see: Homepage - Social Care TV (www social-care tv) and see advert on page 4

Local Authorities Spent Additional £1.5bn On Adult

Social Care In 2023-24 Than In Previous 12 Months

Care Home Resident Bob's Birthday Wish Comes True

Celebrating the Outdoors-Enhancing Wellbeing and Happiness for Care Home Residents

Spending

We ve been delivering trusted care for 25 years so we like to get creative when it comes to experiences to keep things fresh and interesting for our resident community!

Whilst spending time in the garden and listening to birdsong is enjoyable for some residents, others prefer physical exercise or organised group experiences that offer the opportunity for social interaction or mental stimulation

To ensure that we cater to every resident’s unique interests hobbies and abilities we strive to provide wide-ranging opportunities for all

Gardening: Gardening

sion

and

enjoyed physical exercise and different sports throughout their lives Organising outdoor games in our care home gardens offers a sense of continuity for our residents enabling them to continue to pursue their former passions Lawn bowling is a very popular pastime which sees our residents work as a team – or show off their competitive sides! Another unique offering we ve introduced this summer is Giant Jenga which went down a storm with residents at Watlington Care Home in Oxfordshire These experiences and gentle exercise can help to improve coordination and mobility as well as releasing endorphins (a

Senior Care Assistant At Penarth Home Marks

At New Copford Place the Colchester-based residential care home run by charity Friends of the Elderly the care team hosted a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party for the residents to celebrate this year s Afternoon Tea Week

“To mark this year’s Afternoon Tea Week, we wanted to give the residents a fun and uplifting afternoon tea party and as the Cheshire Cat says It s always tea time’, so we thought an Alice in Wonderland event would be perfect,” said Chelsey Leather the Activities Coordinator at New Copford Place

All the care team jumped down the rabbit hole and took part in the ‘Unbirthday Tea Party’ Daniel Sabau the Registered Manager at the care home took on the iconic role of The Mad Hatter Lucy Buckle New Copford Place s Deputy Manager became Alice and Carer, Jackie Woodjetts transformed into The White Rabbit

In keeping with the classic Lewis Carroll story, residents enjoyed an array of delicious afternoon tea treats complete with Eat Me and Drink Me homemade delicacies

“All the residents had a ‘Wonderland’ time ” said Daniel “Unlike The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party in the timeless story our tea party took place at 3 p m and not 6 p m The residents had a lovely time not only enjoying the tasty afternoon tea but also reminiscing about the

NHS 111 Offering Crisis Mental Health Support For The First Time

Millions of patients experiencing a mental health crisis can now benefit from support through 111 the NHS has announced

The change means the NHS in England is one of the first countries in the world to offer access to a 24/7 full package of mental health crisis support through one single phone line

People of all ages, including children, who are in crisis or concerned family and loved ones can now call 111, select the mental health option and speak to a trained mental health professional NHS staff can guide callers with next steps such organising face-to-face community support or facilitating access to alternatives services such as crisis cafés or safe havens which provide a place for people to stay as an alternative to A&E or a hospital admission

Previously local health systems had their own separate phone lines, which were fast-tracked during the pandemic and took around 200 000 calls per month

For people who need support at A&E if there is a risk to life every emergency department in England now also has a liaison psychiatric team available to offer specialist care

NHS Talking Therapy Services are also available for people who need help with other mental conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and PTSD and anyone can refer themselves online via NHS uk or by contacting their GP

NHS National Director for Mental Health Claire Murdoch, said: “We know that record numbers of people are suffering with their mental health and we want to ensure that when people are in crisis they have easy straightforward access to the support they need ”

“While the NHS made significant progress during the pandemic with local services creating their own crisis phone lines we want to go a step further by giving people everywhere in England one single point of access via NHS 111 ”

And in doing so I am extremely proud that we will become one of the first countries in the world to offer a free universal package of support to people through one easy to access phone line

The new integrated service can give people of all ages specialist mental health support and ensure they can be offered face-to-face support in a safe and therapeutic environment

So if you or someone you know needs urgent mental health support please call 111 and select the mental health option ” Minister of State for Care Stephen Kinnock said: “As part of our plans to help fix the broken health system

Separately we are prioritising mental health by recruiting an additional

and

Rethink Mental Illness Chief Executive Mark Winstanley said: “A mental health crisis is traumatic and

orientating and getting help as quickly as possible is vital The last thing people need when they or a

one is in crisis, is uncertainty about where to turn

Today the NHS have made it easier to access urgent support via 111 building on provision already in place through crisis lines We welcome this important step, and hope it will make it simpler for people to access the help they need

RCN Calls To Scrap Unfair Benefit Rules For Migrant Nursing Staff

Haughgate House Care Home Welcomes SERV Motorbikes

The Crisis In Care: Navigating The Impact Of Visa Restrictions On Ser vices In The Care Sector

Article by Fozia Iqbal, Senior Business

The care sector in the UK is facing an unprecedented crisis with an 82% drop in visa applications for health and social care roles since July 2023 according to the latest figures from the Home Office This sharp decline is a direct result of the government s recent policy changes notably the ban on overseas care workers bringing family dependents For many potential applicants this restriction makes the UK a less attractive destination especially for those unwilling to face prolonged separation from their families

However, the decline in overseas care workers is not solely due to this policy The cost-of-living crisis in the UK has further compounded the problem

Many care workers who are often paid at the lower end of the salary scale struggle to make ends meet on a single income The inability to bring a second household income from a spouse or partner makes the financial realities of living in the UK even more daunting, discouraging many from applying This situation is exacerbated by rising costs for essentials such as housing utilities and food which significantly erode the disposable income of lower-wage workers

Also contributing to the reduction in visa applications is the increased scrutiny and compliance demands placed on employers by government Since late 2023 the Home Office has intensified its oversight of sponsorships in the care sector resulting in lengthy processing delays and burdensome evidentiary requirements Employers are now required to submit extensive documentation including rotas contracts and staff details often with very little notice These demands have overwhelmed many care providers leading to delays in hiring and in some cases the suspension or revocation of sponsor licences The increased frequency of compliance visits has further strained employers who are already struggling to maintain adequate staffing levels Home Office visits can lead to significant disruptions in business operations especially if they result in the suspension of a licence which halts all further sponsorship and delays pending visa

applications

The impact of these issues on the care sector is profound With a large number of vacancies remaining unfilled the sector is struggling to provide essential services to vulnerable people Despite some arguments that the drop in visa applications could reflect a “natural correction” following the initial surge in demand when the sponsorship system first opened to care workers, the persistent high vacancy rates suggest that the need for overseas workers remains critical The combination of restrictive immigration policies economic challenges and increased regulatory burdens has created a perfect storm which threatens the ability of care providers to meet the growing demand for services

To navigate these challenges care providers must take proactive steps Employers need to ensure they have adequate resources to manage their sponsorship and Home Office interactions and it is crucial they remain vigilant of any abuse or mismanagement of the system and workers Engaging legal representatives to assist with visa applications compliance visits and licence management can help mitigate risks and ensure businesses remain in good standing with the Home Office

Additionally adopting robust recruitment practices and providing comprehensive support to overseas workers such as assistance with accommodation training and relocation expenses can help enhance retention and attract talent Despite the recent increase in visa salary thresholds, care workers still benefit from discounted rates under the Immigration Salary List

Looking to the future while the government is planning to build a domestic workforce such as through Labour s Fair Pay Agreement and the launch of Skills England these initiatives are unlikely to have immediate results It could take years to train and recruit enough domestic workers to fill the current gaps in the care sector, so the reliance on foreign workers will likely continue To ensure that care providers can maintain services during this transitional period it is crucial that the visa system is adapted to better support the sector s needs

It is clear that the care sector in the UK is at a critical juncture The combined pressures of restrictive immigration policies economic challenges and regulatory burdens have led to a significant reduction in the number of overseas care workers, jeopardising the sector’s ability to meet demand By taking proactive measures and advocating for supportive policy changes, care providers can navigate these challenges and continue to provide essential services to those in need

Scarborough Home Raises More Than £400 Following Summer Fair

Curam to Expand Offering with CQC-Regulated Care Packages

Cutting The Cost of Dementia Care While Raising Quality of Life and Wellbeing

By Sally Tabbner, Chief Executive, Dementia Support (www

The cost of dementia care in the UK is predicted to rise from £34 7 billion in 2019 to a staggering £94 1 billion by 2040 And the number of people living with dementia is predicted to rise to over 1 6 million by 2040 with dementia now named as the leading cause of death in the UK

Despite this many people affected by dementia still feel that access to help and support preceding and following a diagnosis is in short supply The outlook for the coming years is a concern; but, for people with access to Sage House Tangmere in West Sussex the story is a different one

Sage House Tangmere was opened in 2018 by a local charity, Dementia Support Dementia Support was set up a few years before when the original founders felt that more help should be provided for people affected by dementia in the local area

As the only one of its kind in the country it brings a full range of integrated services and partners under one roof, including information advice guidance the NHS dementia assessment service, legal advice, activities, respite day care, and wellbeing services Since its launch the charity has proven agile and adaptable by moulding to the needs of the community and its customers

The Sage House support provision can start pre-diagnosis where people who suspect they might have dementia can come for information and advice as well as accessing diagnostic services operated onsite by the local NHS Mental Health Trust This support spans the entire dementia journey with care partners still having access even after their loved one has passed away

Following the success of the Sage House Tangmere Centre of Excellence, Dementia Support has captured its methodology and packaged it into a Toolkit to support other regions who want to improve dementia care and support Other counties in England already have plans underway, working in partnership with

the team at Dementia Support to replicate the model with all the tools advice and support available to help them make it happen

THE PROOF THAT THE SAGE HOUSE MODEL WORKS

An academic evaluation carried out over 18 months by the University of Chichester s Cognitive Ageing and Dementia Laboratory found that the Sage House Model saved £1 722 per person each year when compared to the standard cost of care

On top of this – and more importantly - the study revealed that those using the Sage House Model experienced significantly greater Life Satisfaction (20% higher), Wellbeing (16%) and Quality of Life (10%) than the standard care model

With 1 in 2 of us likely to be affected by dementia in our lifetime and the numbers of people living with dementia predicted to rise exponentially the Sage House Model can save the government billions over the coming years In addition the report delivers convincing evidence that there is a significantly better way to support people living with dementia and their care partners

The model’s connected structure enables effective integration between local healthcare provision and charity support services aligning well with the WHO definition of primary care by offering accessible, ongoing, and comprehensive support through coordinating specialised services that cover a range of common needs

By working in partnership with existing local services those replicating the Sage House Model in other parts of the UK can fill current gaps in dementia care and bring services together in one place so that people affected by dementia can have a familiar friendly environment where they can access all the help and support that they need

If you would like to find out more about how the Sage House Model for dementia care could be replicated in your area, get in touch with the Dementia Support team at nationalambitions@dementiasupport co uk or for more information and to download a copy of the Academic Evaluation carried out by the University of Chichester go to nap dementiasupport org uk You can also stay up to date with the latest developments by following the Dementia Support charity on Linked In

Deputy Lieutenant John Wood Joins Celebration of New Garden Facilities at Local Care Home

Parkside care home recently hosted a garden party, celebrating the unveiling of their newly refurbished garden and The Cowshed – an area for the home to host parties and activities for its residents Deputy Lieutenant John Wood joined as a special guest to mark the occasion cutting the ribbon and giving a short speech to residents and colleagues at Parkside care home

Parkside care home is part of Exemplar Health Care and supports adults living with complex mental health needs and neuro-disabilities including brain injuries and Huntington s disease

The garden party was well attended by family and friends of residents and colleagues neighbouring Exemplar Health Care homes and local community members The event was a valuable opportunity for the local community to meet the residents and team at Parkside, and understand more about the care provided at the home

The festivities commenced at noon with a BBQ entertainment games and raffles Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch and BBQ before the arrival of John Wood DL The Deputy Lieutenant officially opened The Cowshed and presented long service awards to dedicated team members acknowledging their commitment to providing exceptional care

The visit was particularly significant for many residents at Parkside care home who have made writing meaningful letters to the royal family a long-standing tradition

Deputy Lieutenant John Wood stated: It was a privilege to attend the garden party at Parkside care home and see first-hand the wonderful community spirit that flourishes here Events like this are crucial as they bring together residents families colleagues and the wider community, creating a sense of belonging and celebration I m honoured to have been part of this special occasion celebrating the wonderful work being done at Parkside and the positive impact it has on the lives of those who live here ”

The entertainment line-up included a performance by local singer Hells Bell which added to the lively atmosphere before a surprise visit from four alpacas organised by Home Manager Catherine Sandy The event also featured a raffle and tombola, with proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Society, alongside other games and activities designed and selected by the residents themselves Catherine Sandy, Home Manager at Parkside care home, shared: “It was a wonderful day We were thrilled to meet the Deputy Lieutenant and show him our garden and the new facilities which so much hard work has been poured into The entire experience was so fun and I was so happy to see everyone enjoy our new space!

Research Study Reveals Patchy And Inconsistent End Of Life Care

A major research study has found that one in three dying people in England and Wales were severely or overwhelmingly affected by pain in the last week of life with bereaved people reporting how difficult it was to get joined-up support from health and care professionals at home

Funded by end of life charity Marie Curie Time to Care: findings from a nationally representative survey of experiences at the end of life in England and Wales was produced by King s College London s Cicely Saunders Institute, Hull York Medical School at University of Hull and the University of Cambridge Time to Care aims to describe the outcomes, experiences, and use of care services by people affected by dying death and bereavement in England and Wales It is the final report from the Marie Curie Better End of life programme

The report found one in five dying people had no contact with their GP in the last three months of life

Half of people surveyed (49%) said their dying loved one visited A&E at least once in their final three months of life, and one in eight people who died in hospital had been there less than 24 hours

Half of respondents (49%) in the study were also unhappy with at least one aspect of the care the person who died received and of those one in eight people made a formal complaint Fewer than half of respondents said they had a key contact person to co-ordinate their care This meant responsibility for care fell on informal carers (family and friends) who often felt unprepared and unsupported

Professor Katherine Sleeman from King’s College London and lead researcher on the project said “This study reveals patchy and inconsistent provision of care for people approaching the end of life While there

“Without

were examples of excellent care – including in the community in care homes, and in hospitals – the overall picture is of services that are overstretched and of health and care staff lacking the time they need to consistently provide high-quality care This means that dying people miss out on treatment and care for their symptoms and families are left feeling unprepared and unsupported which has lasting emotional repercussions into bereavement ”

These findings are highly concerning considering the ageing population and the expected increase in palliative care needs across the UK By 2048 there will be an additional 147 000 people in the UK who need palliative care before they die, a 25% increase Without a corresponding increase in capacity of primary and community care teams to support these people as they approach the end of life, the quality of care is likely to further suffer It has never been more important to ensure high-quality palliative care for all who need it

No Red Cards Or Off-Sides – Just Plenty Of Goal Scoring At Bernard Sunley Care Home

Introducing Task Manager: Revolutionizing Food

Safety and Efficiency in Senior Living and Care Centers

Annette Weatherley

Investment Championing The Next Generation Of Dementia Researchers

Alzheimer s Society will be investing £9million into funding three new Doctoral Training Centres designed to support and nurture dementia researchers at the start of their career

Currently only one in five dementia PhD students go on to stay in dementia research often due to underfunding and the challenging nature of academic careers

The news last week of potential new treatments in dementia highlights again that researchers taking their first steps into the field will be the dementia research leaders of the future They are critical to maintaining the momentum to end the devastation caused by dementia

The centres will support nearly 90 students over five years to enter dementia research and will be led by Professor Stuart Allan at Manchester University, Professor John-Paul Taylor at Newcastle University, and Professor Nathan Davies and Professor Claudia Cooper at Queen Mary University of London

They will focus on building knowledge and understanding in areas that have been particularly underfunded This includes understanding how changes to blood vessels and our immune systems contribute to dementia Lewy body dementia and Integrated Care

The Doctoral Training Centres will represent networks of researchers from a range of institutions working on the same research topic with varying expertise and specialisms

Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer but there is still no cure With this new, bold and ambitious generation of researchers life-changing breakthroughs can be achieved which are so desperately needed by people living with this devastating condition

The new Alzheimer s Society Doctoral Training Centres which build on a previous model led by the chari-

ty will play a pivotal role in encouraging people to enter the field of dementia research as well as create a supportive network

They will provide PhD students with unique access to activity across the centres – widening their options for peer support, networking, knowledge sharing training and equipment This has previously shown to have a powerful effect in helping to support PhD students to continue their careers in dementia research

Fiona Carragher Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer’s Society said: “Dementia is the biggest health and social care issue of our time By 2040 1 4 million people will be living with the condition in the UK And yet a worrying number of dementia researchers leave the field after finishing their PhDs so a catastrophic amount of talent and expertise is being

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WWII 85th Anniversar y: WAAF Veteran Recalls Churchill ‘Wreathed In Smoke’

Care Show Birmingham Awaits You...

Homecare Association Report Exposes Serious Deficiencies In Homecare

A new report from the Homecare Association reveals critical failures in the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) regulation of homecare services in England This puts people drawing on homecare at risk and causes harm to care providers THE ANALYSIS IDENTIFIES SEVERAL KEY ISSUES UNDERMINING CQC’S PERFORMANCE:

1 Severe resource constraints: Registered community social care locations have increased 5 5-fold over a decade, while CQC’s resources have remained static CQC is prioritising care homes over homecare

2 Dysfunctional funding model: The current approach fails to reflect the true costs of effective regulation across different service types and sizes

3 Ineffective IT systems: Despite £137 9 million invested over ten years core regulatory processes lack fit-for-purpose systems

4 Misalignment with local authorities: Shortcomings and inconsistencies in CQC assessment of local authorities and misalignment between

with CQC These are causing serious financial detriment

Dr Jane Townson OBE CEO of the Homecare Association commented: “The state of homecare regulation in England is like a ship taking on water with a crew using buckets instead of pumps to bail it out People relying on care services are at risk of being left adrift, while dedicated care providers are fighting to stay afloat in a sea of regulatory dysfunction

“Imagine running a

(23%) or have severely outdated ratings (37%)

Insufficient inspections are jeopardising service quality, safety, and public confidence

Providers face crippling registration delays inconsistent inspections and communication breakdowns

Residents From Moors Manor Care

Home Pay Visit To Riding School

Cedar Court Care Home Residents Dream Big

Cedar Court care home, located in Witney, recently hosted a lively and imaginative afternoon where residents were asked the exciting question: "What would you do if you won the lottery?" The event sparked engaging discussions, with residents eagerly sharing their dreams and ideas for how they would spend a lottery windfall

The activity, designed to stimulate conversation and creativity saw residents from across the care home come together to discuss their hopes and aspirations From world travel and luxury purchases to charitable donations and family gifts, the residents’ responses were as varied as they were inspiring, showcasing their vibrant personalities and diverse interests

Cedar Court s Home Manager, Nicoleta Ungureanu, commented: "It was wonderful to see our residents faces light up as they talked about their lottery dreams This

activity not only encouraged social interaction but also allowed us to learn more about the unique passions and wishes of each individual It’s clear that our residents have big hearts and even bigger imaginations!"

This engaging event is one of many activities the home organises to enhance the daily lives of its residents By encouraging residents to dream and share their stories, Cedar Court continues to build a close-knit community where everyone feels heard and appreciated

Cedar Court, part of Healthcare Homes Group, remains committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment where residents can thrive The care home places great emphasis on creating

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Shining a Light on Dementia Care Innovation for World Alzheimer’s Month

Senior Councillor Visits GSA Extra Care

Scheme to Mark Starts at Home Day

Councillor Taylor also had the opportunity to meet some of the residents in Swallow Fields and hear about their experiences of living at the scheme

While retaining

wider community

Having your own privacy and independence but with access to services and activities offers an important choice to people as they get older ”

New Dementia Campaign Launched to Raise Awareness and Offer Support

A new campaign to raise awareness of dementia and offer help for those whose lives have been affected by the condition has launched this month ‘Let’s talk Dementia’ - www letstalkdementia co uk, which is organised and funded by Luye Pharma Ltd, offers information about the condition as well as resources that individuals community groups and carers can access It covers everything from types of dementia and what the symptoms are through to advice on nutrition staying active and guidance for carers

There are currently more than 944,000 people in the UK who have dementia and one in three people will care for someone with the condition at some point in their life 2 By 2040, it is estimated that up to 1 7 million people could be living with dementia in England and Wales 3

The launch of Let’s talk Dementia comes following a survey with 1 000 people4 carried out by Luye Pharma Ltd which showed there is concern about access to dementia information 57% think there is not enough available while 22% are unsure

Contributing to www letstalkdementia co uk are partners and support groups with expertise in the dementia field They include GP and media medic Dr Rosemary Leonard, the movement education specialist Joël Kruisselbrink who creates exercises and games for the

Said Dr Rosemary Leonard who worked with Luye Pharma Ltd as a

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

HC-One Care Homes Mark International

Day Of Charity By Recognising Fundraising Efforts That Make ‘Real Difference’

HC-One care homes across the UK are marking International Day of Charity on Thursday, September 5, by reflecting on their recent fundraising efforts to raise vital funds for charities close to their hearts

The International Day of Charity was established worldwide in 2012 by the United Nations General Assembly The day honours Mother Teresa s tireless work to help others overcome poverty and suffering with the aim to give back to charities raise awareness and provide a platform for charity related work

At Brookdale View Care Home in Newton Heath, Manchester, colleagues took part in the annual Cancer Research UK Race for Life to raise over £1 500 for the charity 12 colleagues from the care home dressed up in flamboyant unicorn outfits and tutus for the race

Brookdale View Senior Care

Assistant Joanne Parry organised for several of her colleagues to attend the event Darren Hodge Brookdale View Clinical Deputy Manager and his husband Christian Jay Figueroa took part in the event on July 7

There were also several Care Assistants, as well as Brookdale View s Deputy Manager Steph Welch and Steven Carter Flex Force Cluster Supervisor participated There were also several Senior Care Assistants in attendance, including Kerry Windridge Claire Ward and Joanne Parry

The run was difficult for those involved but the enthusiasm and encouragement given by all ensured everyone crossed the finish line The team raised a staggering £1 455 27 and £272 50 in gift aid

Darren Hodge, Clinical Deputy Manager at Brookdale View care home, commented Team Brookdale View are proud to have taken part in Cancer Research UK s Race for Life to raise money to help keep finding new ways to fight this awful disease We ran on behalf of those we love, friends, family and our residents

“I'd personally like to give a huge thank you to everybody in the team who put on their running shoes tutus and unicorn costumes and slogged through the rain to raise money for such a worthy cause

At Silverwood Care Home in Nottingham Nottinghamshire colleagues and residents took on the challenge of walking 100-miles to raise money for Dementia UK In total colleagues and residents raised a total of £452 25

Dementia UK are a specialist dementia nursing charity that provides support for families who require lifechanging support and advice for those affected by dementia Colleagues along with a few residents from Silverwood care home went for walks in May around the surrounding areas of the home enjoying the fresh air exercise picturesque scenery and sights whilst also tak-

ing the opportunity to get to know each other better

Debra Meynell Silverwood Care Home Manager stated:

“I’m so proud of our colleagues and residents for taking on the challenge of walking 100-miles to raise money for Dementia UK which is a cause close to our hearts as we provide residential, nursing and dementia care services at Silverwood

“Thank you to everyone who sponsored us We hope that by raising funds for Dementia UK we can help contribute towards making a real difference to the lives of those living and affected by Dementia ”

At Greenways Court Care Home in Consett County Durham residents and colleagues raised an astonishing £2 175 00 for the RVI Children s Cancer Unit in Newcastle by completing a sponsored walk around the local estate

The local football club Consett Crusaders had organised a sponsored walk in aid of helping 12-year-old Ethan O Neil who has Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma Cancer

When colleagues at Greenways Court heard this news and realised the connection with Ethan’s Mum and Grandma who both previously worked at the 51-bed residential and residential dementia care home they knew they had to help

A meeting was held with residents where they decided to join forces with the football club to raise funds for the RVI Children’s Cancer Unit

Greenways Court resident Maureen Urwin commented:

“We never expected to raise as much money as we did in a million years!”

A total of £2 175 00 was raised from the sponsored walk held on the 11 April Michelle Bull, Care Manager at Greenways Court Care Home got in touch with Philip Bithell Fundraising Manager at Newcastle Hospitals Charity, who invited residents along to the RVI and have a photoshoot in front of the trusts background with their giant cheque Michelle Bull Greenways Court Care Home Manager said:

“I have so much pride in our team! Colleagues residents and visitors all came together to raise an amazing £2 175 00

“All of the community supported us and an amazing day was had The residents were so proud to hand over the cheque, they had a real and well-deserved sense of achievement

Sailing Through Life: The Inspiring Journey of Albert Scott

In the seaside town of Fleetwood lives Albert Scott - a man whose life story is as rich and profound as the waters he has sailed for decades Now in his golden years, residing in Fleetwood Hall Care Home, Albert's passion for boating remains undiminished a testament to a life driven by a love for the sea

In 1927 a force 12 wind alongside a 33 6 tide combined to create a 2000-acre lake around the town cutting it off for five days More than 1,800 properties, the homes of 10,000 people, became inundated with sea water Six people drowned in the Fylde area – five of them were in Fleetwood Unfortunately, 4 of those people were Albert’s Grandma and her three siblings

However this did not deter Albert’s love for the sea When he was a child he often sailed to Iceland pleasuring with father These trips would keep him away for as long as three weeks at a time Albert first went on a fishing boat when he left school For the next five or six years, the sea became his livelihood

But life, with its unpredictable tides, took Albert ashore when he married his late wife Vivenne-Claire He secured himself a stable job at ICI - a role he would dedicate 32 years of his life to as a plant controller in a large power station Albert’s reignited love for boating was not a childhood dream but rather a happy accident One evening at a local pub a chance encounter led him back to the water We were at The Fernhill in Preesall for a couple of pints and a voice shouted to my mate ‘Do you fancy fishing tomorrow?’ My mate asked if I could come along and that was that

It wasn’t long before Albert was steering a 10-meter yacht when he wasn t on shift, rediscovering the joys of open water We ve been up to the Hebrides and all over The salt is in my blood It s there by nature; it s what I love doing "

Albert’s boating adventures have given him more than just memories; they ve gifted him friendships that span across the ocean From spontaneous trips to Whitehaven with his friend Gary to teaching his nephew John the art of sailing Albert s life on the water has always been about connection - both with the sea and with those who share his passion Albert’s move into Fleetwood Hall Care Home was a necessary step after a period of illness Yet even within the walls of the home the sea calls to him and has been out to the dock three or four times just recently with his strength slowly returning allowing him to prepare his boat once again for the adventures ahead

All the staff at Fleetwood Hall are interested in my boat and think it s fabulous that I get out and about on the sea I have lots of tales to tell and I have even sailed with a few of the staff’s older family members” Maintaining his boating routine hasn t been without its challenges Albert relies on his nephew to help him get down to the dock, but this has only deepened their bond We have had a good laugh; he s good company Albert has refused to let age or circumstance dictate the course of his life His family understands how much boating means to him and they encourage his continued adventures on the water His boat named after his late wife Vivienne-Claire is a tribute to the love and life he has cherished and the two

NCF Launches CEOs & Senior Directors Conference

For The Not-For-Profit Care And Support Sector

Edenmore Nursing Home Opens

Vintage Sweet Shop

Edenmore Nursing Home in Ilfracombe North Devon recently opened their take on a vintage themed sweet shop This has brought together residents (fondly referred to as family members), and their families, as well as team members who have a sweet tooth!

The North Devon nursing home’s ethos, "A Journey Paved by the Past," is reflected in this new addition to the home; by offering a variety of timeless confections, the wish is that family members will experience a sense of familiarity and evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort as the sight smell and touch of the treats connect them to moments from their past

“We created this as

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Redcot Residents Have A Tea-Riffic

Time Celebrating Afternoon Tea Week

At Redcot the residential care home in Haslemere Surrey which is run by charity Friends of the Elderly residents have had a tea-riffic time celebrating this year’s

Afternoon Tea Week

“We know how much all our residents love their daily good cups of tea which they also enjoy at our regularly afternoon tea parties,” said Jan Daly, the Registered Manager at Redcot So to give them a special treat and to celebrate this year s Afternoon Tea Week we pulled out all the stops or should I say t-leaves and hosted a different tea-themed afternoon each day

Afternoon Tea Week ran from 12th to 16th August and Jan and her team made sure each event was beau-teaful On Monday 12th August, residents got the ‘part-tea’ started with Yorkshire Tea Day celebrations A good old cup of Yorkshire Tea with dunking biscuits, always goes down well added Jan All the residents said they had a ‘brew-tiful time ”

Tuesday 13th was Devon vs Cornwall Cream Tea Day

We had a great laugh said Ann Essam Redcot s Activities Coordinator “Firstly we debated whether it was pronounced Scones or Scons (Scones was the winner) and then the big question – jam before cream, or cream before jam? Like The Late Queen, the majority of our residents prefer to put jam on their yummy Scones first but when it comes to what type of Scone they enjoy the most – plain fruit or cheese - the jury was out with a split decision ”

On Wednesday 14th Redcot hosted its very own Ritz-styled afternoon tea – ‘Tea at The Redcot’ “The Ritz started serving its quintessential and famous afternoon teas back in 1906 when the hotel first opened so we thought it would be a lovely idea to bring the feel the iconic hotel s afternoon tea to our residents,” continued Jan

Staff

Member

Danity finger sandwiches and delicious homemade cakes were served with warming cups of tea poured into Bone China tea cups The residents loved the Ritz theme and adored it talking about their own visits to The Ritz and other hotels where they have enjoyed a grand afternoon tea

It was Lancashire’s turn on Thursday 15th “The residents got into the Red Rose Spirit of the county continued Ann “We served them Lancashire Tea and the county’s traditional Parkin Cake and for supper everyone tucked into a delicious Lancashire Hot Pot

London took centre stage for the final themed afternoon but with a slight twist We focused on London for the last day of Afternoon Tea Week,” added Jan “Pie and Mash is one of our residents guilt-tea pleasures We had a wonderful reminiscing time where the residents talked about their love of pie mash and liquor covered in plenty of pepper and vinegar; where they first tasted the time-honoured London delicacy and which pie and mash shop was the best That was quite a debate - Manze s in London Bridge Berts on Peckham Park Road, Cooke’s on Brick Lane –everybody had their favourite

“Our residents really know their pie and mash,” continued Ann “One resident knew that the first pie and mash shop in the UK was opened in 1844 It was referred to as Eel Pie House and was in Southwark London They never cease to amaze me ”

“The Afternoon Tea Week was a great success The residents have already asked if we can do it again next year It was a lovely fun and inclusive way to spend the week Full of memories and sharing happy experiences – and jokes too One joke had me laughing so hard, I was crying ‘Why is Chinese Tea so good? Because it takes a very Oolong time to brew concluded Jan

At Stafford Home Braves

The Shave And Raises More Than

Empowering Carers Through Technology

The job of a care worker though immensely rewarding is not without its challenges A growing demand for social care has seen carers placed under greater strain with a mounting workload and limited resources

Increasingly carers are also exposed to abusive and even violent behaviour from service users and their relatives Be it deliberate or as often the case unintentional Such aggression can leave a profound mark on diligent and dedicated care staff

The solution to many a modern-day problem is often tech and so too is this the case when dealing with today’s care landscape STAFF ALARM SYSTEMS

Tech has proven to be a friend to the care worker, automating administrative tasks enhancing reporting and in the case of staff alarm systems, protecting them from potential harm

What was originally a

tance

to

colleagues to

overwhelmed care workers, the ability to summon help with the press of a button is incredibly empowering Be it calling lunchtime cover on a 1-to-1 patient or requesting urgent assistance with an abusive resident the alarm offers staff a greater deal of control assurance and resources while at work HOW DOES IT WORK?

In Pinpoint’s case an integrated staff safety system ensures full site security When activated a personal staff alarm emits infrared signals to receiver units installed throughout the building These in turn send vital information to display units and devices, such as pagers, and desktops detailing the exact location and type of call – assistance or emergency

Within 85 milliseconds of triggering an alarm colleagues are informed that an incident is taking place and, crucially, exactly where it is in the building

The application of infrared technology to provide precise reliable and efficient data is critical here Rather than rely on WIFI-dependant systems - which are prone to interference and inconsistency –Pinpoint s infrared systems deliver an accurate, consistent service that care workers can trust And for a growing care home population such

precision and dependability have never been more important

SUPPORTING THE WORKFORCE

The presence of high-performance alarm systems in care home settings has proven invaluable to workers

With increasing demands being placed on care workers due to a growing care home population and staff shortages the ability to quickly summon additional assistance is crucial to their sense of wellbeing and security

For staff in St Brigid s Hospital in Galway, the installation of Pinpoint’s staff alarm system provided reassurance that help was only a buttonpress away Maria Donnellan, a Clinical Nurse Manager on the ward, said If a resident becomes abusive toward a member of the team or if a patient is choking, staff can quickly call for support and know it will soon be on its way As a result staff report higher levels of job satisfaction and reduced stress caused by the threat of violence

As the care home environment evolves so too have alarm systems

Far from the traditional bell caller of old the modern alarm is a wireless integrated system that ensures a precise and efficient response

A testament to innovation the contemporary staff alarm system is a tool to empower care staff in what can be a challenging setting By enabling immediate response to emergencies promoting a safe environment enhancing communication building confidence encouraging accountability facilitating regulatory compliance and providing peace of mind staff alarm systems are essential for modern care environments pinpoint ltd uk

Olympic Gold Medallist Visits Andover Care Home

Redbond Lodge Care Home’s Knitting

Project Brings Joy to Ukrainian Orphanage

Over

New Home Manager Appointed at Hampton Grange & Gwen Walford Nursing Homes

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

MOWOOT II for Constipation Free Life

MOWOOT II – proven solution to chronic constipation without medication

Developed by a team of doctors and other healthcare professionals MOWOOT II performs gentle abdominal massage to speed up intestinal passage in people experiencing chronic constipation

Clinically proven, safe and effective relaxing and sideeffects free, MOWOOT II

Abdominal Massage Therapy System combats constipation and provides soothing relief to affected people

Easy to use and comfortable the MOWOOT II treats and manages constipation in people with spinal cord injuries multiple sclerosis sufferers Parkinson’s Disease patients and people with constipation related to prescription medication MOWOOT II also helps to relieve idiopathic constipation experienced by menopausal and post-menopausal women

and older and elderly people In clinical studies

MOWOOT II increased evacuation frequency softened stools improved regularity reduced gasses relieved bloating and eased off abdominal discomfort 10 to 20 minutes daily of relaxing abdominal massage with MOWOOT II rapidly reduces symptoms of constipation Evident results are experienced only a few days after the first treatment Regular abdominal massage with MOOWOOT II ensures lasting health benefits and better quality of life

MOWOOT II – effective solution to chronic constipation for better quality of life!

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Ser ve in Style with Euroser vice Trolleys

C&S Seating Ltd

A museum-led dementia awareness programme House of Memories, is marking 10 years since its memory activity app launched at the House of Commons

The free My House of Memories app co-created with people living with dementia, was launched two years after the creation of the wider House of Memories programme, which is led by National Museums Liverpool The aim of the app is to develop connections and conversations between people living with dementia and their families and carers through digital collections of objects Together, people can explore pictures of museum objects and everyday items – which range from a Singer sewing machine to a 10 shilling note – and discover things which resonate with them Images are brought to life with sound music and descriptions which can help to spark memories of days gone by Users can also save favourite objects to a digital memory tree, digital memory box or timeline and add their own photographs to the ‘My Memories’ feature on the app

with people living with dementia as well as families and friends, House of Memories also provides online and in-person training where you can learn how to use the My House of Memories app and hear about other dementia activities and resources The in-person training takes place in Liverpool every month, while online training –made up of 31 expert videos across four modules –can be completed at any time

The House of Memories team also offer bespoke dementia awareness and app training to organisations which work with or support people living with dementia from the likes of residential and nursing homes to housing associations and groups offering support services

The My House of Memories app is available to download for free on iOS devices via the App Store and on Google Play for Android devices Information about in-person online and bespoke training is available on the House of Memories website

As you get older your penis and testicles may get slightly smaller One reason is the build-up of fatty deposits in your arteries reducing blood flow to your penis This can cause withering of the tissue cells in the spongy tubes of erectile tissue inside your penis making it awkward to stand at urinal to urinate – but having incontinence on top of this can make matters very difficult to manage

Incontinence:

Over the last decade objects on the app have been interacted with more than a million times In order to support professional carers working

Find out more about the House of Memories programme on their website at www liverpool museums org uk/house-of-memories

If you suffer from Penile Retraction and Incontinence – Men’s Liberty has you covered: Men’s Liberty is the discreet dignified dependable alternative for urinary incontinence that you have been looking for It is made of a gentle, skinfriendly material called hydrocolloid a proprietary adhesive that softly stretches and moves with a man as he changes position Unlike diapers that

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Men’s Liberty attaches to the tip of a man s anatomy directing urine to

CLEANING AND HYGIENE

The Power of Dr y Steam Cleaning

Dry Steam cleaning fights the battle against bacteria and viruses on three fronts with thermal and chemical disinfection and decontamination by mechanical action of surface penetration and extraction to eliminate contaminants The innovative design and cutting-edge dry steam technology can help tackle the risks of transmissions both inside healthcare settings and outside where you need to offer the safest and cleanest environments

Dry Steam penetrates common surfaces that are porous – like unvarnished wood and/or have non-smooth textured and rough surfaces that harbour and hide biofilm and soil Where manual cleaning isn’t possible, the Dry Steam Vapour reaches those areas and delivers a hygienic environment and peace of mind that it s free from risks of infection Scientific studies by OSPREYDDEEPCLEAN TNO and UCLH -

University College London Hospital-, focusing on the efficacy and removal of all biofilms and microbiological decontamination demonstrated that Dry Steam Vapour performed equal to or better than other disinfection practices While the use of water and an approved detergent provides an environmentally friendly and effective alternative to more toxic disinfectants

Dry Steam is also ideally suited to be combined with Microfibre cleaning regimes and SteamMops are available as optional accessories

Further Laboratory evaluations using OspreyDeepclean steam cleaning/sanitising machines establish the destruction of hospital infection strains - including the antibiotic resistant superbugs MRSA and VRE - in less than 2 seconds

Angloplas Dispensers Help Reduce the Risk of Cross Infection

Angloplas are a UK manufacturer who specialise in producing dispensers for the health and hygiene industry Although these are designed to keep the workplace tidy and uncluttered they are, more importantly built knowing the control of healthcareassociated infections (HCAIs) are a priority for healthcare providers and who are employing a combination of infection prevention and control strategies including hand hygiene cleaning training and the adoption of new technologies to tackle the problem As a result, a wide range of infection control products and technologies are emerging on the market including antimicrobial technology Angloplas’ range of dispensers are produced in the

world s first proven Antimicrobial PVC with silver ion technology and which is exclusive to Angloplas This helps reduce the risk of cross infection by stopping the growth of bacteria and mould and works continuously for the lifetime of the product reducing levels of bacteria such as MRSA E Coli, Legionella Salmonella and mould by up to 99 99% For non-clinical environments Angloplas has recently launched its new Budget Range of products which are made to the same exacting standards as the antimicrobial protected ones but with lower price tags You can order Angloplas products directly from its website by going to www angloplas co uk

The First Menu Planning and Food Ser vice Guideline for Care Homes for Older Adults Launches

A new set of menu planning and food service guidelines for care homes catering to older people has been launched

The Food Services Specialist Group and Older People Specialist Group of the British Dietetic Association (BDA) and the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) have worked in collaboration to launch these guidelines under the title Care Home Digest

The Care Home Digest is the first of its kind providing menu planning and food service guidelines to support care homes to provide high quality food and drink services for residents

No such resource currently exists in England and this document should complement existing dietetic guidelines available in the other nations of the UK

The overall food and dining experience can have a huge impact on quality of life for residents and is often one of the highlights of the daily routine Undernutrition dehydration and other nutrition related health concerns which often impact those living in care or residential homes mean that providing appropriate and appetising meals that meet nutritional requirements can be more challenging

With many care homes unable to access a food service dietitian service the Care Home Digest allows homes to access the information to support them to plan nutritionally balanced and appropriate menus to meet both the nutritional needs and preferences of their residents

By having a clear set of standards and guidance that provides consistency and clarity in the approach for eating and drinking in care homes managers nurses care and support staff and caterers will better understand what they should be providing as part of their overall food service

Helen Ream Healthcare and Food Service Dietitian at Compass Group UK & Ireland and Vice-Chair of the BDA’s Food Services Specialist Group says,

It has been a privilege to chair the working group of dietitians and NACC colleagues to develop these guidelines I hope they will be the ‘go to’ resource for care home teams to support them to understand what their food services and menus should include to support residents to have a great mealtime experience whilst also meeting their nutritional needs

Mealtimes play an essential role in the wellbeing of some residents They allow residents to connect with each other as well as with carers and family members and give moments of happiness or reflection when there are cultural or religious celebrations

Chapters in the Digest include delivering a positive mealtime experience menu planning and design and catering for special diets

Helen who is also a member of the NACC says “The Care Home Digest builds on the work of the BDA s Nutrition and Hydration Digest a resource for all those involved in the provision of food and drink services in hospitals and which forms part of the National Standards for Healthcare Food and Drink Until now no similar national food service standards have existed to support care homes for older adults to meet the nutritional needs of their residents We hope these guidelines will be widely used and become a nationally trusted resource in the same way ”

The information and checklists within the guidelines are intended to support care homes to review their services to understand what they are already doing well and where improvements could be considered and made

Neel Radia National Chair of the NACC says The National Association of Care Catering is proud to have been working in collaboration with the BDA for this unique Care Home Digest

“This document is a welcome and necessary publication to enable consistency across the care home sector A multidisciplinary team bringing hospitality and nutrition together is the best solution for an all-encompassing approach to meeting residents nutritional needs This is a must-have document for all catering teams in care homes, from induction through to ongoing reference and review No care home for the elderly should operate without this

“Thank you to Helen Ream and the entire team who have worked so hard in putting this together and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone in the care sector

OHK - Your Specialist Partner for Dysphagia Management

Founded by Preston Walker and James Ball, globally recognised experts in texture modification and culinary applications for modifying food OHK is your specialist partner for Dysphagia management

Our mission is to provide comprehensive training programs and implementation support that empowers healthcare providers to deliver safe nutrition and reduce risk across the care setting We work in collaboration with you and your teams to secure a better quality of life for individuals with specialised diets Because everyone deserves the right to safe nutrition WHY CHOOSE OHK?

We offer validated and clinically endorsed training programs ensuring your setting complies with current best practices and standards Our courses are mapped to the Eating Drinking and Swallowing Competency Framework from the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and delivers best practice guidance reflecting the globally recognised International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI)

OHK provides high quality cost-effective eLearning modules tailored to dysphagia training needs These modules are available as bundles or individual courses which can be accessed via OHK s or your own Learning Management portal, providing flexibility to meet your organisation’s requirements For advanced training needs we also offer in-person courses

MORE THAN JUST A TRAINING PROVIDER

OHK assists you in establishing a safe, auditable process and internal framework, helping to enhance your specialist catering solutions Whether you have 1 or 100+ beds we have a solution for you that is cost-effective accessible and scalable

Our courses are developed and maintained in collaboration with East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust ensuring the highest quality and accuracy of guidance Expert Dysphagia Consultancy

OHK s expertise has attracted partnership from a range of organisations including Norse Care, Belong Villages and numerous NHS Trusts, including East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Ayrshire and Arran NHS and the States of Guernsey OHK provides Care England with care catering expertise to support its members and improve standards in the sector

At OHK we are more than just a training provider; we are your partners in delivering excellence in dysphagia care Together we can help you transform your healthcare setting and ensure safe enjoyable nutrition for all

Call Us Today 01572 337188

Email us info@oakhouse-kitchen com

Or visit www oakhouse-kitchen com

It is hoped this document will also support the Care Quality Commission and other nations’ inspectorates to know what they should be assessing and checking for during their visits to care homes and further influence the development of improved standards in such a vital aspect of care After the successful launch of

group of suppliers selected through the Open Doors Programme Aimed at small food and beverage suppliers the Open Doors Programme identifies the most innovative businesses trying to establish themselves within the industry and raises awareness of their products so they can make their mark in wholesale

Despite the recent deceleration in inflation the share of small businesses aspiring to grow

CATERING FOR CARE

Enhancing Care for Dysphagia: Establishing EDS Competencies for Improved Quality of Life

Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing is a condition that can significantly impact the quality of life for many individuals particularly residents in health and social care facilities Addressing the needs of those with, or at risk of developing, dysphagia is crucial for enhancing their daily experiences and ensuring high standards of care to ultimately improve their quality of life

To achieve this, it's essential to establish Eating Drinking and Swallowing (EDS) competencies across whole care teams, to fully equip the multidisciplinary team (MDT) with the expertise needed to provide comprehensive support

EMBEDDING EATING, DRINKING AND SWALLOWING COMPETENCIES – A QUICK DIGEST

Establishing EDS competencies involves identifying the specific knowledge and skill sets required for each role within the care and catering teams as outlined in the Eating Drinking and Swallowing Competency Framework (EDSCF) This approach ensures that every team member from carers and nurses to caterers and managers possesses the necessary competencies to support residents effectively Fundamental to this is adherence to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) Framework which details the exact methods for preparing high quality nutritious meals and drinks that are tailored to residents specific swallowing needs

Supporting a sustainable implementation of EDS competencies involves addressing staff turnover accommodating new staff members, managing role changes and providing ongoing training Clear objectives and straightforward management protocols are essential for maintaining these standards over time Additionally, regular feedback mechanisms should be established to continually assess and improve the care provided ensuring that residents receive the best possible support to enhance their quality of life and reduce the risks associated with dysphagia

IMPLEMENTING EDS AT SCALE: IS IT ACHIEVABLE?

Implementing EDS competencies at scale has been successfully demonstrated in various regions and care settings across the UK with adoption globally too Examples of this include East Sussex NHS Healthcare Trust South Tyneside NHS Trust, the States of Guernsey, Ayrshire and Arran NHS Trust along with private settings Norse Care & Catering and Belong Villages Between 2 000 and 6 000 staff from each organisation across a wide spectrum of care catering and management roles, enrolled and completed EDS and IDDSI specific training schemes In all settings integration of EDS training and systems has significantly benefitted the care facilities and their residents TANGIBLE RESULTS DEMONSTRATE EFFICACY AMONG MDTS.

Following an EDS training pilot with South Tyneside NHS community settings 74% of participants reported they would change the way they would work as a result of completing the programme, with 34% stating they were more confident in knowing how to refer residents for assessments

In East Sussex NHS Healthcare Trust 86% of staff stated the catering for dysphagia diets course helped them in the way they work due to improved knowledge which positively impacts quality of life food safety and the choice that can be offered to patients in these settings

Similarly the States of Guernsey implementation report, showed that both the kitchen services and an acute stroke ward demonstrated an improvement in the production of foods for the IDDSI Framework, and the understanding and confidence in all staff to support patients with dysphagia

Norse Care & Catering and Belong Villages have also seen improvements following engagement with a IDDSI and EDS-specific training programmes Norse noted that 84% of attendees to the onboarding sessions felt they left with a good or strong understanding of supporting people with eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties Belong also

attested to training s efficacy in improving confidence in compliance and quality practices

THE POTENTIAL OF SUSTAINABLE INTEGRATED EDS TRAINING IS HUGE.

The outcomes of implementing sustainable, integrated EDS training and systems are substantial The pilot with East Sussex NHS Healthcare Trust led to reductions in incidents, increased confidence among staff, higher quality referrals as well as improved food quality Specifically an initial drop in incidents of 85%, with a year-on-year reduction of 33% in incidents on the unit until end of 2022 Since the introduction of this training there has been just one incident in 2023 and no never events or near misses A value that cannot be underestimated

Staff now also have a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by patients with dysphagia, enabling more compassionate and effective support to patients resulting in meaningful impact on their lives

Systematic catering systems provide numerous additional benefits

The States of Guernsey audit report highlights improvements in staff efficiencies consistency in service delivery effective and speedy problem solving and enhanced due diligence processes For example all chefs undertaking IDDSI level specific food training responded very confident’ or ‘extremely confident’ for all IDDSI food production levels Fiona Gardiner Specialist Speech & Language Therapist commented following the pilot; “Guernsey has embedded training throughout levels 1 and 2 of the EDSCF The dysphagia modules support all levels of staff to meet their competency on the framework and this training has meant that risks for people with dysphagia have significantly been reduced In addition we have used IDDSI catering training throughout the hospital catering departments, which has inspired the chefs ” IMPROVING QUALITY OF CARE FOR THE LONG TERM.

These systematic approaches improve the immediate care environment and through robust data capture highlighting better outcomes can help provide confidence to organisations aiming to invest in a strong dysphagia management strategy Establishing and maintaining EDS and IDDSI competencies across care teams is what’s needed to enhance the quality of life for residents with dysphagia and ensure long term sustainability and resilience in care standards

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

TSA and De Montfort University Look To Set New Standard For Healthcare Laundr y Wash Processes

The Textile Services Association (TSA) recently presented a new standardised test protocol for evaluating the disinfection efficacy of laundry wash processes at its spring conference This marks the latest stage in the ongoing partnership between the TSA and De Montfort University (DMU) The research aims to provide accurate information and usable methods of ensuring hygienic cleaning of textiles particularly in relation to sectors more vulnerable to infection such as healthcare

The new protocols were developed following a four-year research project led by Professor Katie Laird at DMU which was funded and supported by the TSA and other national associations from Europe and America Professor Laird and her team have extensive experience in studying healthcare textiles and have previously investigated the survival of microorganisms on textiles and specific wash processes required to decontaminate laundry, among other topics

The importance of creating an effective standardised test for evaluating hygienic cleaning is something that Simon Fry owner of specialist

laundry firm Micronclean Ltd and a TSA board member has been focussing on since joining the TSA over eight years ago The idea for this project came about when manufacturers began introducing chemicals for cold washing he says While it s a great idea in terms of energy saving it can introduce risks in terms of less effective disinfection which is compounded if the traditional tests being used weren t giving accurate results

You could almost pick the test to get the results you wanted, says Simon I realised that we would need something that accurately showed the kill rates of bacteria, which could be used by all stakeholders to deliver data that allows everyone to work on a level playing field "

The TSA reached out to Professor Laird and began funding research with the aim of creating standardised testing protocols that definitively measure how many pathogens are killed by laundry washing processes

In order to achieve this the DMU team needed to study existing infection controls and the current processing methods for healthcare laundry They also needed to understand the attitudes and knowledge of healthcare staff in terms of infection control policies and how these apply to textiles Alongside funding the research the TSA also organised surveys of both its members in the UK as well as overseas to help build a clearer understanding of the landscape

The test developed by Professor Laird and her team accurately demonstrates the disinfection efficacy of laundry during a wash process-

es in a way that can be used throughout the healthcare sector whether it is in outsourced laundries or on-premise laundries The test involves placing a sample of inoculated fabric within a membrane, which looks similar to a teabag that allows water and chemicals through but stops bacteria from escaping meaning that the effectiveness of the decontamination of the laundry process can be properly evaluated This allows for a like-forlike comparison of different washing methods and equipment types and how effectively they kill bacteria present on textiles helping to ensure that infection control standards are maintained

Being able to measure disinfection accurately within a working laundry is paramount in managing textiles as a transmission route for infections particularly in healthcare settings" Professor Laird

"The publishing of these test protocols is an important milestone in our ongoing research collaboration says David Stevens CEO of the TSA The next phase we will see the test methodology incorporated within best practice standards driven by the other national associations this will include working with the TRSA in America and ETSA in Europe

Professor Laird's team will continue their research into improving hygiene in laundry focussing on spores that aren t killed thermally and biofilms that form inside laundry equipment

For more information on the new testing protocols visit tsa-uk org

Brewer and Bunney – Pioneering Commercial Laundr y Solutions

Brewer and Bunney proud to be the best in the South West for over 40 years provides specialised laundry services and equipment specifically tailored to the needs of healthcare facilities including NHS and private hospitals Emphasising the critical importance of infection control and legislative compliance, Brewer and Bunney aligns its offerings with standards such as the Department of Health HTM 01-04 guidelines They equip hospitals with advanced energy-efficient laundry machines designed to meet the rigorous demands of hospital environments

Brewer and Bunney offers comprehensive services including expert consultation installation and ongoing maintenance ensuring that hospital laundry operations are both efficient and effective in maintaining high hygiene standards crucial for patient care and safety For NHS facilities Brewer and

and

In addition, Brewer and Bunney supports healthcare facilities in setting up inhouse laundry operations, helping hospitals regain control over their laundry processes This approach optimises costs and improves quality and compliance with health standards By bringing laundry services in-house hospitals can ensure consistent high-quality outcomes that meet the specific needs of healthcare environments including effective infection prevention 0808 500 8093 brewerandbunney co uk enquiries@brewerandbunney co uk

LAUNDRY SOLUTIONS

Forbes Professional Ensures Smooth Laundr y and Warewashing in UK Care Homes

C.R. Wood - The Commercial Laundr y & Dishwashing

Experts in the South West

Timeless Presents

Timeless Presents are an award winning husband and wife team working to connect and engage those living in the later stages of dementia Inspired by a father s journey with Alzheimers Timeless Presents have created innovative activities and engagement solutions that can be used to engage in the later stages to the benefit of the user the carer and the caring organisation Their innovative approach combines familiar traditional pastimes with design features that enable users with late dementia to easily engage Their first three products have all been accredited as Dementia Inclusive by the world leading Dementia Services Design Centre at Stirling University and have also achieved an Innovation award at the recent Dementia Care Awards 2024 Drawing from their personal experiences and informed by the current understanding of cognitive issues faced by those with dementia Sharon and Chris Daltrey have embarked on a mission to make a difference in the lives of individuals currently living with dementia Forbury Residential Home had this to say “Our residents really enjoyed them The

zles and colouring books Thank you so much for giving our residents a better quality of life ”

In a significant milestone Timeless Presents recently achieved accreditation from the internationally renowned Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) for three of its products, being the first time that they had assessed activities of any sort This accreditation underscores the company s commitment to creating dementia-inclusive products that meet the highest standards of quality and effectiveness They also recently exhibited at the Alzheimers and Dementia Show at London Excel in June 2024 to a warm reception from industry professionals including occupational therapists Activity Co-Ordinators and Admiral Nurses who all commended their products

With a focus on affordability 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 408 941 connect@timelesspresents com www timelesspresents com

Focus Games - Game Based Training for Ever y Situation

Focus Games are the leading game developers focused on education for healthcare staff and patients

Game-based learning is an innovative approach to education that leverages the principles of games to create engaging and interactive learning experiences This approach has gained popularity in recent years due to its ability to motivate learners and improve retention rates Healthcare staff can benefit significantly from game-based learning as it can help them acquire new knowledge and skills in a fun and engaging way The key benefits of game-based learning for all healthcare staff are:

1 Enhanced engagement

2 Improved knowledge retention

3 Safe learning environment

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 inspiration? We've got your back Looking for activities tailored to different abilities? We ve got that covered too!

But wait there s more! We ve teamed up with carers and activity coordinators across the land to ensure that every product and idea we offer is top-notch and practically oozing with

fun And if you ve got a creative itch that needs scratching, we're here to help you bring your unique ideas to life!

So, don't let boredom sneak in Join us on this adventure of going the extra smile because let s face it smiles are the best currency around here

See all of the above here at www activitiestoshare co uk

Unlocking Joy and Vitality:

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining mental agility and memory sharpness is crucial, especially for our beloved seniors

Gone are the days when traditional quizzes and bingo were the only options for mental stimulation Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software brings a fresh tech-savvy twist to these beloved activities making them more accessible and enjoyable for the elderly This software offers a plethora of features designed specifically to cater to the needs and preferences of seniors ensuring that everyone can participate and benefit

MEMORY RECALL AND BRAIN EXERCISE

One of the most remarkable benefits of using Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software in care homes is its positive impact on memory recall and cognitive health

Regular engagement with quizzes and bingo games has been shown to stimulate various parts of the brain, enhancing memory retention and recall abilities The software includes a wide range of quiz topics, from history and geography to music and movies, allowing residents to tap into their long-term memories and share their wealth of knowledge

Bingo on the other hand promotes concentration and mental alertness As residents listen for their numbers and mark their cards they are unknowingly participating in a fun yet highly effective brain exercise This dual approach of quizzes and bingo ensures a wellrounded cognitive workout keeping the mind sharp and agile

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND BELONGING

Beyond the cognitive benefits Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software fosters a sense of community and belonging among residents The interactive nature of

these games encourages social interaction, teamwork, and friendly competition

Whether it s a lively quiz session or a thrilling bingo game residents come together share laughs and create lasting memories This social engagement is essential for emotional well-being reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness that can sometimes affect seniors

EASY TO USE AND HIGHLY CUSTOMISABLE

The software is highly customizable allowing caregivers to tailor the difficulty levels and content to match the preferences and abilities of each resident This adaptability ensures that everyone regardless of cognitive ability can enjoy and benefit from these activities

A WORTHY INVESTMENT FOR EVERY CARE HOME

Investing in Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software is an investment in the health happiness and well-being of our residents The blend of cognitive stimulation social interaction and sheer enjoyment makes it a valuable addition to any care home's activity repertoire As we continue to prioritize the holistic health of our residents, incorporating such innovative tools will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter, more engaging future

Hashtag Quiz and Bingo software is more than just a game; it is a gateway to a more vibrant connected and mentally active life for our seniors We encourage all care homes to consider integrating this exceptional software into their daily routines Let s unlock joy and vitality one quiz and bingo game at a time!

Find us TODAY and access your FREE 7-day trial at: https://hashtagquiz co uk/quiz-for-the-elderlyand-seniors/

NURSE CALL AND FALLS

Stay Safe with Smart Wireless Nurse Call

Blaucomm Ltd - Telecommunications & Networks

Crash Mats Designed to Reduce Injuries from Bed Falls

NURSE CALL AND FALLS MONITORING

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 Please email info@onecallsystems co uk or call 01252 448137

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

The Increasingly Important Role of Integrated Care and Technology in the Care Sector

With care homes increasingly oversubscribed and resources as stretched as ever, Sharon Bye, Director of Care for Central and Cecil Housing Trust (C&C) and Aster Group, highlights how new smart technology can allow providers to have greater oversight of specific resident care and maximise efficiency Readers will be well acquainted with the operational challenges facing the care sector

An ageing population combined with limited resources and a persistent skills shortage has left the sector under increasing pressure Having celebrated the 95th birthday of Central and Cecil Housing Trust (C&C) in 2022 we are well aware that these are by no means novel challenges and our past experience has provided us with useful lessons for navigating these headwinds However it s critical that we as care providers take every opportunity to tackle these challenges With the support of integrated care services and unified technology, we ve seen firsthand how its enabled

managers is the ability to deliver joined up effective services with less resources By adopting proven technologies and developments in the integration of care services, care home managers can critically refocus their efforts on delivering the best in care services Technology is the enabler to help drive efficiencies throughout operations without compromising the quality of

where we provide specialist care for people with advanced dementia in tandem with the North Central London Integrated Care Board (NCL ICB) Our work at the home has validated how the roll-out of integrated care systems and new digital technology can improve and reshape care provision

Examples of the technology we use on site include a motion sensor and acoustic monitoring system called Ally to help care teams monitor residents who may be at risk of falls and movement difficulties Carers are made aware of sudden motions and alerts pinpoint when it s necessary to intervene with professional assistance to prevent undue falls or distress for those residents

This has subsequently allowed for better sleep hygiene for the residents with night checks now taking place every two hours for most residents and every three hours for a few more depending on their needs and risks In the case of one resident we ve been able to track a significant decrease in overnight falls – none since December 2023 – and significantly reduce the need for staff members to visit her throughout the night with the motion sensor system allowing us to monitor from afar without unnecessary disruptions This means care staff can focus on residents who require hands on care during the night

We ve also utilised the ‘Whzan Blue Box’ early warning system which monitors and stores information on vital signs It automatically and immediately notifies a wider team of geriatricians clinicians and care home staff of any risks concerning results or medical attention needed When clinicians or paramedics do attend they are able to compare the resident’s readings to wider historical data on the system to establish a baseline In many cases this is preventing unnecessary medical treatment and significantly reducing the number of unplanned hospital trips for residents

In one case a resident presented with what appeared to be low oxygen saturation levels but when medics arrived they were able to look back at the range of recorded observations and conclude this wasn’t out of the ordinary for him A hospital admission was avoided, and the resident didn’t have to receive off-site treatment that could unduly displace and distress them The software unifies historic data, allowing staff to make clearer diagnostic and more specifically informed decisions about treatment based on past experiences with individual patients

The benefits of integrated care services and digitalisation are not just limited to inside the care home either with shared patient diagnostics helping to ease pressure on local emergency services as well as GP practices Rather than assessments being isolated a more cohesive integrated system enables heightened accuracy and a quicker response

Rathmore House has also been utilising a new connected triaging system named Silver Triage Installed in 2022 in collaboration with the NCL ICB as well as local NHS and ambulance trusts Silver Triage is designed to reduce unnecessary hospital trips and ease the burden on ambulance services, while enabling geriatricians to remotely assess, advise and guide ambulance paramedics attending patients in care homes where needed Doctors using the service can also help access

EASING THE BURDEN

TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE

Imagine, Act And Succeed's Shift To Digital: A Game Changer!

After over 30 years, care charity Imagine, Act and Succeed finally swapped their paper rotas and timesheets for a digitised system to help manage their 85 locations and 460+ staff

Emma Hobbs Payroll Officer at the charity grew frustrated over the inaccuracies and errors of this cumbersome process - especially when it led to wages The system was often outdated and staff frequently missed shift changes This led to lost time money and patience for both managers and employees

So, how can turning to digital systems like RotaCloud improve this?

The information is accessible to us in payroll straight away which is an absolute godsend Being able to see instantly where someone is working, what shift they ve actually done the clock-in and clock-out records are just - it s made our payroll side so much more streamlined to what it was beforehand ” - Emma Hobbs, Payroll Officer

Accuracy is the biggest benefit for Emma and her team There s no more chasing people for paperwork or last-minute runs for payroll Managers can instantly access live reports from labour costs to attendance with clocking-in data automatically feeding to timesheets When clocking in and out is as simple as a click or tap via mobile, web, or a terminal, employees (and Emma) can trust that all wages are correct

Communication has also improved By having everything at their fingertips from shifts to requests everyone works from the same page It has made staff s lives much easier and saved managers time Enabling notifications also means any updates to the rota annual leave requests or available shifts are immediately

Pass by ever yLIFE

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

sent to the appropriate staff No more sending out WhatsApp updates, missed messages or stress trying to find cover

Before RotaCloud, Imagine, Act and Succeed managers sat down for two days

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 infection

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@everylifetechnologies com

RECRUITMENT & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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