Issuu

no.323

incorporating

December 2023

The Number One magazine for the care sector

New secretary must tackle social care THE new Health and Social Care Secretary must urgently tackle the growing crisis in social care to ease pressure on the NHS, campaigners said today. The care provider organisation, the Independent Care Group said a mountain of evidence for social care reform grew bigger every day and it was ready to help Victoria Atkins as she gets to grips with the job. ICG chair Mike Padgham said: “We welcome Victoria Atkins to the post of Secretary of State and wish her well in the role. “We would urge her to make reform of social care her number one priority. “Solving the crisis in the care of older and vulnerable adults, getting funding into the sector and tackling the staffing crisis will help ease problems across her brief. “Getting social care back on track will ease pressures within the NHS and that must be her first main focus. “We, and other colleagues in the sector, have a wealth of knowledge and sensible, practical suggestions to help and would be delighted to meet with her to discuss the way forward, as soon as possible. “She faces a growing tsunami of reports crashing on to the shore. Growing hospital waiting lists, rising numbers of delayed discharges, cuts in funding for social care reform and a warning

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over the future health of older people… the litany of warnings just keeps growing and growing. “So many of these reports revolve around successive governments – including this one – failing to properly reform social care and give older and vulnerable people the care they need and deserve.” n In recent days, The National Audit Office revealed that the Government has cut the funding for its planned reform of social care by 58 per cent – diverting some £1bn of the £1.7bn allocated, to other priorities. The money had been earmarked as part of 10-year reforms which included capping the cost of lifetime care. Meanwhile reports of delayed hospital discharges – often due to a lack of available social care – continue to emerge. National figures suggest up to 58 per cent (13,000 people) are unable to leave hospital even though they are able to – mainly because there is no homecare and residential care available. Figures from the BBC Data Unit revealed examples – like at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust between July 1, 2022, and June 30 2023 on an average night 88.1 per cent of patients who had been identified as ready to be discharged that day were still occupying a bed at midnight.

Avonbridge Care Home in Hamilton has opened its own tuck shop. What sets this initiative apart is the involvement of the home’s residents, who will actively participate in running the store. Home manager Emma Duffy said “This tuck shop is more than just a place to grab a snack. It’s an opportunity for our residents to engage in a meaningful activity, one that fosters a sense of purpose and belonging. “Moreover, it serves as a social hub, encouraging interaction and camaraderie amongst our community. A bag of bon bons can really brighten the day.” The tuck shop, operated from a mobile cart made from an upcycled medicine trolley, boasts an array of goodies from chocolates and crisps to cold beverages and water.

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TICKETS are selling fast for the 2023 Caring UK Awards; with shortlisted care homes, sponsors and guests all looking forward to a great evening. Organised by Script Media in partnership with Caring UK and headline sponsor Virgin Money, this annual celebration of success will culminate in a glittering ceremony – taking place at the Athena in Leicester on Thursday December 7. TV personality Des Coleman has replaced Emma Jesson as this year’s presenter. We received a record number of entries from all over the UK with so many stories of the wonderful work that is being done and we want to thank everyone who sent in nominations. Shortlisted entries from far and wide have made the finals, now progressing to the next stage of the judging process. Event organiser Dominic Musgrave added: “The standard of entries has been higher than we could ever have imagined, and we’re really looking forward to seeing everyone on the night. “It was difficult enough for us to narrow the number of entries down into a shortlist so I don’t envy our judges who are going to have to choose the winners. “The event itself will be a celebration of all that is good in the industry and the perfect party to start Christmas.” Tickets to the industry’s party of the year are available at https:// script-events.co.uk/cuk-awardstickets

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Resident completes lifelong wish to meet an owl AN 87-year-old care home resident from East Grinstead was delighted when her lifelong wish to meet an owl up close was made a reality. Christine Evans, a resident at Care UK’s Mill View, travelled to The Owl and Raptor Centre in Groombridge, to meet the feathered friends up close. Fascinated by the majestic creatures since childhood, Christine wanted a chance to see them up close for the first time. From owl cushions to a full dinner service and ornaments of the animals, Christine’s home was an ode to the nocturnal animal. Christine’s bedroom now showcases her long-standing love for owls with everything from lampshades to pillows on display. The surprise formed part of the home’s ‘Wishing Tree’ initiative, which encourages residents to put wishes forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new. This could be flying a plane or enjoying a fish and chip supper, no request is too big or small. After Christine put her wish on the tree that she wanted to see owls in person, the team wasted no time in contacting a local sanctuary.

www.caringuk.co.uk Advertising Healthcare Product Manager: Bev Green Tel: 01226 734288 bg@scriptmediagroup.co.uk Assistant Sales Manager: Tracy Stacey Tel: 01226 734480 caringuk1@scriptmediagroup. co.uk Publishers Script Media 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS. info@caring-uk.co.uk Editorial Operations Director: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 734407 dm@scriptmediagroup.co.uk

Christine Evans with Mill View care home team members Rachael and Julie. this day possible and helping us fulfil Trish Banks, home manager at Mill Christine’s wish.” View, said: “Everyone at Mill View knows Christine was accompanied by Mill how much Christine loves owls, so it was View team members and her sister, Beryl, wonderful to help her wish become a where they were welcomed by the team reality. at The Owl and Raptor Centre, before “It was fantastic to see Christine come heading to the much-anticipated owl face-to-face with the beautiful creatures enclosures. that she has loved since her childhood. She was then given the opportunity “She hasn’t stopped smiling since to get up close to a variety of birds, visiting, so I’d like to thank the team at including a barn owl – her favourite kind The Owl and Raptor Centre for making – and a great grey owl.

At Script Media, we try to get things right but occasionally, we make mistakes. If you have a complaint about a story featured in our magazine or on our website, please, in the first instance, contact us by email: dm@scriptmedia.co.uk We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice as demanded by the Independent Press Standards Organisation. For details on the code and what to do should you be unsatisfied with the way we handle your complaint, please visit www.ipso.co.uk

Studio Manager: Paul Hopkinson Tel: 01226 734711 ph@scriptmediagroup.co.uk Assistant Studio Manager: Scott Firth Tel: 01226 734414 sf@scriptmediagroup.co.uk Database enquiries to: 01226 734695 circulation@ scriptmediagroup.co.uk Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publishers do not accept liability for error, printed or otherwise, that may occur. Follow us on Twitter @caringuk

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Manchester City surprise for Jack Fete on the field raises £1,500 TWO Winchester care homes joined forces to stage a family-friendly fete and raise £1,500 to help adults with learning disabilities. Residents and staff from Colten Care’s Abbotts Barton and St Catherines View held the community event. It was their fourth annual ‘fete on the field’, designed as a joint effort to provide residents and families with a fun experience while raising money for charity. Among the visitors perusing the craft and gift stalls, sampling Colten Care cakes and taking in the live music was the Mayor of Winchester Angela Clear who also lent her help to announce the raffle prize winners. Dee Lovewell, home manager of Abbotts Barton, said: “Neighbours told us they were pleased that the field was put to good use and that we

had laid on such as inviting event, all in the aid of the Boaz Project. “We thank the Mayor for attending with such great enthusiasm, joining in with the activities and helping to ensure the raffle prizes were drawn. “Together we have raised a fantastic amount of money. This will be presented to The Boaz Project, together with all the funds raised by smaller fundraising events throughout the year, towards Christmas.” The fete raised more than £1,450 for the Sutton Scotney-based Boaz Project, a therapeutic work community for adults with learning disabilities. The project is both homes’ main nominated charity to support this year, with further fundraising events and initiatives planned over the autumn and winter.

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A 91-YEAR-OLD lifelong fan of Manchester City has been recalling past heroes and events that shaped the club’s history after attending his first game in decades. Jack Evans remembers watching pre-WW2 matches with his father in the 1930s and seeing his favourite players like Peter Doherty and Frank Swift. He also recalled Manchester United sharing City’s Maine Road stadium after the Manchester Blitz in 1940, and the final match before the club moved to the City of Manchester Stadium in 2003. The memories came flooding back to Jack, who lives at Lever Edge after he was gifted two tickets to watch City’s recent 2-0 defeat of Nottingham Forest. The care home’s head of domestics, Heidi Armstrong, discovered Jack’s love of Man City when she was cleaning his room. She said: “I asked Jack about his favourite football team and he said Manchester City. He then started telling me about his favourite players and attending matches with his dad.” Jack told Heidi he would love to visit Etihad Stadium one day as he’d never seen his favourite team play there, so she went about trying to make his dream come true. Heidi asked the care home’s activities coordinator Manny Patel and senior carer Mike Adamson to email the club to ask about complementary tickets. Heidi’s son Frankie heard about his mother’s mission to get Jack tickets to a match and gave him his club hat. To everyone’s surprise the club responded to their email within a week with the offer of two tickets to the Nottingham Forest game, and the stage was set to surprise Jack. On the morning of the game Manny went into Jack’s room and woke him

with the news. She said: “Jack couldn’t believe it. He was over the moon.” Jack was also gifted two Man City football shirts to commemorate the day, one by night staff senior carer Tracey Hewitt and her husband, who are also fans, and the other by Jack’s family. Manny added: “He happily got himself ready for the day, having a shave and getting his new shirt on.” When Heidi got to the care home to pick Jack up for the game wearing her own Man City shirt she said: “Oh, we look like twins, Jack.” She added: “Jack was overjoyed when we got to the stadium. We went in and he couldn’t believe how big it was. He was loving every minute of it, enjoying a pie while watching the stadium fill up. “We both joined in the chants and cheering the team to a 2-0 win over Forest. We both had the biggest smiles on our faces on the way back. It really was a day to remember.”

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COVE House, a residential care home for older people in Silverdale, was joined by local shop Kitty Browns Boutique to deliver a fashion show for its residents and guests. The home, which houses up to 23 residents and is managed by the Abbeyfield Silverdale Society, has previously held similar events with the shop, but recent obstacles, including the Covid-19 pandemic, have meant the show was postponed in recent years. Cove House care coordinator Nicola Stubbs said: “We wanted to add some glamour to the event, so the ticket price included a glass of prosecco and a slide of cake, which went down a treat. “My Abbeyfield Silverdale colleagues, CEO Catherine Humphreys and team leader Joanna Barker, and Deirdre Dobson, one of our resident’s daughter-in-law, did a fantastic job on the catwalk, modelling Kitty Brown’s new autumn and winter collection. “The money raised will supplement our residents’ activity fund which is

used for day trips, visits to the local café, arts and crafts materials and many other activities.” The house and the shop both advertised the event on social media at a cost £5 per ticket. With the residents attending for free, around 40 people watched the show and had the opportunity to browse the clothes rack before it began.

CARINGNEWS

Sheltered housing scheme marks 40th anniversary ANNETT House, a sheltered housing scheme in Potten End, commemorated its 40th anniversary with a party. The house, which is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac within walking distance of the centre of the village, provides housing, activities and support for up to 11 older people. The Abbeyfield Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead Society manage the house, which is part of the worldwide Abbeyfield movement. Residents of Annett House and the other houses run by ABHHS – St Mary’s House and Sibleys Orchard, both in Hemel Hempstead – joined together to celebrate the house’s ruby anniversary, alongside trustees past and present, and individuals that have enjoyed a relationship with the house over the years, including ex-Mayor Councillor Gbola Adeleke, and others from the local area. Trustee of 35 years, Christine Hopcraft, said: “It was a great pleasure to celebrate this very special occasion together with residents, staff, volunteers, friends, neighbours and local dignitaries. “We are all very proud to be a part of our very successful ABHHS, providing quality services to our residents through dedicated staff and volunteers, making Annett House is a special place in our vibrant community.” The house dates back to the early 1980s. Helen Johnson, a local resident, donated half of her garden to what was then the Abbeyfield Berkhamsted

Home treated as part of charity bike ride Society, and a grant from the Housing Corporation saw the construction of a new house that opened in 1983. The house was named after Helen, whose maiden name was Annett. Sheltered housing manager Anna Walsh added: “The party was a huge success due to the hard work of all the staff and volunteers. Everyone enjoyed themselves; the food and entertainment were great. “It had such a sense of family and community with the staff, residents and families, local residents, friends and volunteers of Annett House past and present.”

RESIDENTS were treated to a unique performance from a local music charity which was stopping at care homes along a charity bike ride route. Musicians from Armonico Consort sang and played for residents at Studley Rose, a state-of-the-art residential care home — with TV presenter, wine expert and singer Oz Clarke also in attendance. The group visited the care home as part of its 200-mile fundraising bike challenge, with the choir hoping to raise £20,000 to support valuable singing projects for people living with dementia. The musicians entertained residents with Armonico’s trademark mix of baroque music and well-known numbers. Listeners, some of whom are living with dementia, were encouraged to sing along, clap and play percussion instruments. Maria Willis, registered manager at Studley Rose, said: “Our residents had such a fun morning with the choir and we’re honoured to have been one of the care homes chosen along their route.

“We are glad the weather stayed dry for their visit and we hope that continues for the rest of their ride. Everyone at Studley Rose’s care community wishes them all the best.” The musicians gave miniperformances at six care homes along the 200-mile route from Armonico’s base in Warwick, via the ‘Three Choirs’ of Worcester, Hereford and Gloucester, to Wells Cathedral in Somerset. Studley Rose also recently held a dog show and raised £185 for Armonico Consort’s appeal. The show was attended by a variety of breeds including bulldogs, dachshunds, brittanys, samoyeds, retrievers and sheepdogs. The canines competed in four categories: the fluffiest tail, waggiest tail, happiest dog and the most obedient dog. Maria added: “We really value the relationship with Armonico Consort, so the activities team got their heads together and decided to host a dog show. This was a great success and ultimately, allowed us to contribute towards such an important cause.”

Team’s adventure raises £1,000 Service launches art class AN Oxford homecare company has launched an art class for its clients, making art activities accessible for everyone who receives care at home. Hannah Tomlin, a senior carer who was recently named as the events co-ordinator for Walfinch Oxford, said: “I was inspired to set up a weekly class in Uffington village hall by Bill, one of our care clients. I set it up myself, but once I told Walfinch Oxford, they decided to support me and help me develop it.” Now several local Walfinch clients come to the class, often brought by their carers, who join in the activities. It’s open to anyone, and local villagers come too. Hannah, who enjoys arts and crafts herself, and provides the art materials, added: “The first six

sessions were still life, for which I supplied the subject. We hope to do weaving, decoupage, printing and pottery soon, led by local crafts people. People who come along can also choose their own subjects and bring their own projects if they like. We want it to be open to all abilities, so we also provide materials for mindful colouring.” Some attendees initially struggled because they had not done any art for years, but Hannah added: “I tell everyone that it doesn’t matter about the end result – it’s about enjoying the creative process, and the carers and other attendees encourage each other to have a go. We have had some lovely artwork produced already.” Hannah also brings along cakes and refreshments for sharing.

RESIDENTS at a Thetford care home are set to enjoy a rejuvenated garden after staff raised £1,000 during a sponsored walk. Alexander Court’s team undertook an 18-mile sponsored walk to raise money for garden furniture and a gazebo, creating a new environment for all to enjoy, no matter the weather. A dozen members of staff spent the day on foot starting at the care home and ending their travels in the ancient town of Brandon, walking through the dense forests and crossing over the River Little Ouse. Manager Pat Collins said: “The 18-mile walk was an unforgettable adventure, but it is all worthwhile to enrich the lives of our residents. “It’s great to see how many members of the team took part, and it highlights how much we care about the wellbeing of the people we look after. “I look forward to seeing how the outdoor space will be transformed and see how much our residents and their families enjoy it.”

CARINGNEWS

Volunteer strikes a chord at home

Operator explores the power of reflection for national event RESIDENTS at Excelcare’s Park Avenue in Bromley have been exploring the power of reflection through art for National Day of Arts in Care Homes. Hosted by NAPA, National Day of Arts in Care Home aims to celebrate the power of arts for people who live in care and encourage them to experience the benefits that different art forms can have on their physical and mental wellbeing. This year the theme for National Day of Arts in Care was reflection and care homes across the UK were encouraged to take part in activities that surround this theme. Urban and portrait artist Paul Cruz was welcomed into Park Avenue to do portrait sketches of some of the people who live there. Residents were welcomed into the activity room for one-to-one session with Paul and sit comfortably as their reflections were recreated with graphite and paper. Residents were excited to sit for their portrait as many had never done this before. The session made residents feel like royalty as, for many the only portrait drawings they had seen were of notable figures and the royal family. The reaction to their finished portrait was a sight to behold, as

Paul not only captured their physical appearance, but traits of their personality through the effects and shading he used. Seeing their finished portraits raised smiles amongst residents and aided with reminiscence as people reflected on their lives and individual stories. Alison Teader, programme director of Arts in Care Homes, said: “It was wonderful to see the artist creating such lovely, sensitive portraits of residents from Park Avenue and to see their reaction on being shown the final artwork. “The National Day of Arts in Care Homes provides an opportunity for residents, team members and family members to have access to the arts and new creative opportunities. “It was wonderful to attend an event in person and witness some of the wellbeing benefits for all involved, first hand.” Not only was this session as success, but residents left with a personal piece of art to frame and hang in their room, or gift to a family member. The portrait session also inspired residents to have a go at pencil to paper art themselves and will be swapping their posing skills for portrait skills in the coming weeks, as they have a go at drawing their friends.

Residents from a Kent care home have carried out a beach clean to mark International Coastal Cleanup Day — as they look to help preserve the coastline for future generations. Residents from The Old Rectory, a branch of ACI Care that specialises in residential, respite and dementia care, teamed up with members of the local community for an afternoon of beach cleaning in Dymchurch – which saw residents picking up litter and ocean debris that had been washed in by the tide. In recent years the growing problem of beach litter and pollution has been a cause for concern – something that had been noted by residents of the home, and was the source of inspiration behind their efforts. Resident Dorothy Latham, 89 is pictured with nine-year-old Bella.

A TALENTED young volunteer has received an award in recognition of her exceptional contributions at an Oldbury care home. Hannah Chambers began volunteering at Portway House Care Home in 2021, just as Covid-19 restrictions began to ease. Since then, she has visited the home regularly, orchestrating moments of joy for residents with customised performances of their favourite songs. In recognition of her commitment to brightening the lives of Portway House residents, Hannah recently received an Oldbury Community Volunteers Award. These awards celebrate individuals making a difference in Wednesbury through voluntary work. Hannah was among 14 young volunteers in Sandwell who received this prestigious certificate and had the honour of enjoying tea and cake with the Mayor at the Council House. One of Hannah’s most remarkable contributions is singing on the dementia floor. She has a deep affinity for those with dementia, carefully selecting songs from their life stories and family anecdotes. Families and residents alike have showered her with compliments for her ability to connect with residents through her music, truly hitting the right note in their hearts. Kim Young, registered manager at Portway House, said: “What sets Hannah apart is her personalised approach. “She takes the time to engage with residents, learning their favourite songs and listening to their stories. “Drawing from these interactions, Hannah tailors her shows to each resident’s preferences. “She even creates special themed performances for occasions like Christmas and Halloween, which are always a hit. “What makes Hannah truly special

is her dedication. Beyond group performances, she always finds time to visit residents too unwell to leave their beds, bringing her music directly to them. “She has brought invaluable comfort and happiness to our residents, especially those with dementia. “Her commitment is a shining example of the positive impact one individual can make.” Although not a professional singer, Hannah’s talent was nurtured during her time in the National Youth Theatre. While she pursued academia, her love for performing remained. As a member of Amdrams (The Amateur Theatre Network), she decided to use her passion to bring music to the ears of residents at Portway House. Hannah added: “I never imagined that my love for singing could make such a profound difference in people’s lives. “The smiles and joy I see on the residents’ faces make every moment worth it. It’s safe to say that I enjoy my time with all the residents and singing for them even more than they do.”

Marriage secrets revealed LOVE was in the air at a Ware care home when two residents celebrated a very special milestone. 96-year-old Joan Hare and her husband Walter, 95, both residents at Care UK’s Snowdrop House, both toasted their 73rd wedding anniversary. True childhood sweethearts, the couple met when they were teenagers studying at sixth form – and have been inseparable ever since. Joan said: “We used to go on weekends away with our local youth hostel and became good friends there – we share a lot of the same interests and got on so well.” Walter added: “I’d definitely say that the key to a happy marriage is having similar interests, as well as plenty of love, affection – and patience.” The couple, who have two daughters, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, celebrated their special day with a visit from their family and a cake handmade by the home’s talented head chef. Home manager Clare Crow said: “We know how important it is to

celebrate all of life’s milestones, big and small. “This was a big day for Joan and Walter and we were honoured to raise a glass to their long and happy marriage – we can certainly all learn from their experience. “The atmosphere in the home was wonderful and prompted many residents to reminisce and share fond memories of their own weddings. It truly was a day to remember .”

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CARINGNEWS

Special visit organised for resident Hazel

With the fundraising cake trolley at The Aldbury are, from left: resident Gren Braybrook, companionship team member Melissa Siat Caparros and residents Joan Perrin and Abdu ‘Hobi’ Sabih.

Golden shot for residents raising a charity cuppa COLTEN Care homes have hosted a series of Macmillan Coffee Mornings with an added Willy Wonka-style twist. Residents, staff and visitors raising a mug at the annual charity get togethers were served freshly prepared homemade cakes and pastries in the traditional way. But at each of the operator’s 21 homes, chefs baked one of the tasty treats as a ‘Golden Cup Cake’, containing a hidden layer of edible gold leaf through the middle only to be revealed when the cake was bitten into. The lucky recipient won a bottle of bubbly, chocolates and a donation to Macmillan on their behalf. “I couldn’t quite believe it was the golden one,” said a smiling Pamela Kately, the winner at Canford Chase in Poole. More than 100 cup cakes were baked by chef Izzy Turczyn-Kuzma at The Aldbury in Poole, with housekeeping colleague Michael Sheppard receiving the golden prize. And at Brook View in West Moors, the cup cake winner was visitor Hannah Kirby who had only just arrived to visit her grandfather Harry. Moments after making her coffee morning donation along with partner Leigh, Hannah bit into the cake and saw the gold, prompting cheers all round. Hannah, who was then presented with her bottle of bubbly, said: “I

didn’t realise what it was at first and wondered what I had found in the middle. It was a lovely surprise.” As well as the Golden Cup Cake search, this year’s coffee mornings at Colten Care featured plenty of conversation and other fun. There were mufti days for staff, guess-the-weight-of-the-cake games, cake sales, singalongs and dances. At The Aldbury, two musicians from the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, violinist Jennifer Curiel and pianist and French horn player Kevin Pritchard, performed popular classical pieces and childhood songs such as Run Rabbit Run. Among the residents singing and dancing along were Mary Cooper, Elizabeth Kay and Win Clowerly. Fellow resident at The Aldbury, Abdu ‘Hobi’ Sabih, did his bit to collect donations. He helped companion Melissa Siat Caparros to push the fundraising cake trolley around the home, chatting with residents, staff and visitors. Elaine Farrer, Colten Care’s chief operating officer, said: “We always support the Macmillan Coffee Morning with all 21 of our homes taking part. It’s a fantastic community initiative. “We invite families, friends and local contacts to come and join us for a coffee social and enjoy the fun. The prospect of winning a golden cupcake adds even more interest.”

Home achieves GSF accreditation LINDEN House Care Home in Epsom has been awarded the prestigious Gold Standard Framework accreditation. This nationally recognised certification highlights the home’s dedication to providing exceptional care to those approaching the end of their lives. Reshma Tupsy, Linden House manager, said: “The GSF programme was challenging, especially for a

residential home. “Over the last year or so we gradually integrated every aspect of GSF into our home’s culture. “After submitting comprehensive documentation and hosting an assessment visit in July, we were successful in receiving accreditation. “We are now committed to reaccrediting every three years to ensure our care standards remain unparalleled.”

A CARE home resident in Chester was surprised with a special visit from a trio of fluffy friends. When the team at Care UK’s Deewater Grange heard 94-year-old resident Hazel Challand’s joke that her wish was to spend time with a ‘basket of puppies’ they were more than happy to make it happen. Having worked as a nurse, Hazel has always had a caring and nurturing nature. During her childhood she grew up with a family dog and has always had a soft spot for animals. Hazel was surprised with a basket of three paw-sitively adorable pug-cross puppies, brought into the home by team member Emma. Receiving plenty of fuss and attention, Roxy, Freddy and Pearl certainly ‘raised the woof’ for a barking mad afternoon of fun. As part of the fun-filled session, Hazel had the opportunity to get up close with the lovable and fluffy animals. Hazel said: “It was a lovely surprise and the puppies were so well behaved when they sat on my knee – very soft and cuddly.” The special visit was part of the home’s Wishing Tree Initiative, which encourages residents to put wishes forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new – from flying on a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small. Sally Cooper, home manager at Deewater Grange, added: “We always

like to go the extra mile for residents, and when Hazel said she wanted to spend an afternoon with some fluffy friends we were excited to make it happen for her. “Hazel was thrilled when we surprised her with the basket of puppies and we had a paw-some time welcoming the friendly creatures into the home. “We were pleased to be able to make Hazel’s wish come true and it was wonderful to see the smile on her face as she enjoyed meeting Roxy, Freddy and Pearl.” Emma’s litter of puppies, Roxy, Freddy and Pearl, all enjoyed their afternoon visit and are now back at home ready to be adopted.

George’s speedway wish is granted GEORGE Reade, an 88-year-old resident at the Albany care home in Headington, Oxford, had a special wish come true thanks to the care team. George’s wish to go to the Oxford Speedway for a night of fun was picked from the wish tree at the home and he couldn’t be happier. The wish tree was introduced at the home to allow residents to talk about things they want to do and express their wishes for the future. He used to visit the speedway with his twin brother, Charlie, back when they were young lads. They both loved it, and George has been a fan since 1949 as well as an avid supporter of Oxford United. So, one exciting evening, George, along with senior carer Virgil Maciu, and activities coordinator Liz Perry, headed off to the Oxford Speedway. It was a night of thrilling motorbike racing, and the Oxford Cheetahs triumphed over the Redcar Bears in the last race of the season. George was overjoyed with the result. George is still talking about that amazing night out and the care home is working hard to grant more wishes in the lead-up to Christmas, making residents’ dreams come true. Another resident, Mavis Fry, had a wish to spend a day in Blackpool,

the place where she got married. Although a trip to Blackpool from Oxford wasn’t possible, the care home made it special by creating a Blackpool-themed day with lights, traditional seaside rock, and ice cream.

CARINGNEWS

Employee marks 25 years of service

A resident with her Cyanotype creation.

Photo credit Jack Lowe

Project empowers care homes’ staff to get creative A MAJOR research project recommends empowering care home staff so they can provide regular creative activities for the benefit of residents. The Dare to Imagine project, a partnership between Anglia Ruskin University, care home provider Excelcare, arts charity Magic Me and four leading arts organisations ran from October 2019 until March 2023 across four residential homes in Essex. Each of the homes, which offer residential, dementia, respite and end-of-life care, was matched with an arts organisation that then worked with them over the duration of the project. The project aimed to build relationships between artists, residents and staff through participation in creative arts, and to increase the understanding and potential of embedding creativity in care homes. The arts companies, New Adventures, Fevered Sleep, curious directive and Gecko introduced residents and staff to activities ranging from dance and creating films inspired by stories told by residents, to weaving, soundscapes and 3D printing. Sadie Munro, director of sales, marketing and wellbeing at Excelcare, said: “This four-year partnership was part of a mission to engage residents with different art forms and encourage expression through music, movement, and other creative outlets. “Despite being interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, the partnership was a huge success and everyone who was involved said how enjoyable the process had been, from the initial workshops all the way through the creation of the final projects.” An ARU team consisting of Anna Dadswell (research fellow), Dr Ceri Wilson (senior research fellow) and Professor Hilary Bungay (principal

investigator) explored best practice for developing partnerships between arts organisations and care homes to deliver more sustainable impacts for residents and staff in care homes. A report was launched during an event at ARU’s Chelmsford campus. The report found that the arts activities were powerful in fostering engagement and meaningful moments with residents. Care home staff were proud of their involvement and artists realised the importance of their practice, particularly in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, which hit shortly after the research project began. Artists had to learn, adapt, and respond inclusively to the needs of the residents as well as care home staff who had faced trauma from the pandemic. The relationships between artists and care home staff were key in providing high quality, impactful arts activities in care homes but the report found building these relationships requires structure, support, and time. Aspects of the project had to be paused or carried out remotely during lockdowns, with funding from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation allowing the research and development phase to be extended by a year to allow the project to complete. Recommendations by the ARU research team centred on the need for time, resources, leadership, and support for artists and care home staff to establish shared understandings and expectations, build trusting and collaborative relationships, build the confidence of care home staff in being creative, and for artists to adapt and develop their practice for care homes. It is hoped that one of the legacies of the project will be that care home staff are able to embed creative activities into programmes for residents so they can benefit regularly through the year.

A BOURNEMOUTH employee is marking 25 years of working at Muscliff Care Home in the city. Tracy Dean joined the nurse-led care home in 1998 and has now been working in its catering department for a quarter of a century. Starting as a catering assistant at the age of 34, Tracy has been making cakes and puddings for Muscliff’s residents every day since. She said: “One of the best things about working at Muscliff has been getting to know all the residents and staff I’ve met over the years, and it’s wonderful to know that I’m helping people who need it in the community. “There have been some challenges over the last 25 years, especially during the Covid pandemic, but my role as catering assistant has always been a rewarding one.” Dedrey Charles, home manager at Muscliff Care Home, has been working with Tracy for 22 years, and added: “All of the care home’s staff do a fantastic job providing dedicated support to our residents, and it’s amazing that Tracy has now been working as part of the team for 25 years. “She has been a real asset to Muscliff and we really appreciate all the hard work she’s put in during her time here.”

The home is part of AgeCare, and operations manager and head nurse Sara Gallagher said: “Muscliff is a nurse-led care home, so our approach focuses on providing a home from home for our residents while we meet their healthcare needs. “We couldn’t do this without a committed team of staff, and congratulations go to Tracy as she celebrates 25 years of service.”

Homecare firm wins prestigious accolade A HOMECARE provider is delighted after winning a prestigious award. The Lancaster and Morecambe branch of Westmorland Homecare won the Professional Services category in the Love Lancaster Business Awards. The Love Lancaster Business Awards, which are run by Lancaster Business Improvement District in partnership with Holdens Law, are open to all businesses in the Lancaster city centre area and attracted 1,516 nominations across 15 categories. The Professional Services Award recognised the businesses delivering professional services throughout the city. Also in the final three shortlisted in the category were a solicitors and an estate agent. Judges said that Westmorland Homecare had ‘a fantastic reputation in the local area’. Dan Stainer, the registered manager of Westmorland Homecare’s Lancaster and Morecambe branch, said: “Winning the Professional Services Award is not just an achievement, it’s a testament to the unwavering commitment of our wonderful staff to delivering unparalleled quality and innovation to our amazing clients. “It’s fantastic for a care provider to be truly recognised as a professional service. Empowering excellence, our team rises to the occasion, turning dedication into distinction.” The award was announced at a glittering presentation ceremony in the Ashton Hall at Lancaster City Council.

With the Professional Services Award at the Love Lancaster Business Awards are (from left) Dan Stainer, registered manager, Karen Hodgson, a training and development co-ordinator and Fliss Dixon, a client coordinator. Last year the Lancaster and Morecambe branch received an overall ‘outstanding’ rating by the Care Quality Commission, the independent regulator of health and social care services in England. That rating has recently been extended for another 12 months. It was also named Best Care Provider in the area in 2022 by Lancaster City Council. The Lancaster and Morecambe branch employs more than 70 staff, including 60 homecare assistants. It operates in the Lancaster, Morecambe and surrounding areas, including Bolton-le-Sands and Carnforth.

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Generations come together at home AN Oxford homecare company has launched an art class for its clients, making art activities accessible for everyone who receives care at home. Hannah Tomlin, a senior carer who was recently named as the events co-ordinator for Walfinch Oxford, said: “I was inspired to set up a weekly class in Uffington village hall by Bill, one of our care clients. “I set it up myself, but once I told Walfinch Oxford, they decided to support me and help me develop it.” Now several local Walfinch clients come to the class, often brought by their carers, who join in the activities. It’s open to anyone, and local villagers come too. Hannah, who enjoys arts and crafts herself, and provides the art materials, added: “The first six sessions were still life, for which I supplied the subject. We hope to do weaving, decoupage, printing and pottery soon, led by local crafts people. “People who come along can also choose their own subjects and bring their own projects if they like. We want it to be open to all abilities, so we also provide materials for mindful colouring.”

Some attendees initially struggled because they had not done any art for years, but Hannah added: “I tell everyone that it doesn’t matter about the end result – it’s about enjoying the creative process, and the carers and other attendees encourage each other to have a go. “We have had some lovely artwork produced already.” Hannah also brings along cakes and refreshments for sharing.

Residents at RMBI Care Co. home Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court in Braintree, Essex were delighted when three friendly horses visited. They were all smiles when Louis, a shire horse, Teddy, an ex-racehorse and Django, a thoroughbred gypsy cob, arrived at the home. Owner Beccy Lawrence Resident Norman Smith is pictured stroking shire horse Louis.

Project brings the outside in for care home residents ROYAL Court in Cheltenham is part of a new research project exploring whether the sounds of nature can influence the mental health and wellbeing of people in care homes. It is part of a two-year funded study called SAGE, ‘Sound, Environment and Ageing: Bringing the Outside into Care Homes that has been awarded a grant worth £336,578 by UK Research and Innovation and the Medical Research Council. Manager Fiona Gillon said: “We are very proud to be part of this innovative project and the residents and staff are very excited to be working with the researchers on it.” The project includes a multidisciplinary team of researchers, led by the University of Gloucestershire’s Professor Abigail Gardner and Dr Philip Reeder, Dr Wendy Martin from Brunel University and Dr Alice Goodenough, a researcher at Countryside and Community Research Institute. Abigail added: “The project’s motto is ’Bringing the outside in.’ It uses immersive audio technology to expand the sonic world for care home

residents whose daily environment, routines and health conditions often mean they have little access to natural sound. “University experts and research partners at Royal Court and the Forest Avon Trust will collaborate with older people to record naturebased soundtracks, such as waterfalls, birdsong and sea waves, that will be aired via immersive sound technologies in care homes. “This will enable residents to access external sonic environments through state-of-the-art 3D sound experiences. “Researchers will analyse pre and post-listening data and carry out a detailed assessment of the significance and benefits of ‘green’ acoustics to mental health and well being.” The group is working with residents in our Royal Court to create pieces of natural sounds together outside, which will then be shared with the residents through headphones. A manual will be built with instructions and sounds for easy use by care home staff to use with residents.

Operator achieves worldfirst accreditation for its approach to wellbeing A LUXURY care provider with homes in North London, Hertfordshire, Surrey and Cambridge has achieved a global first for “leading the way” in staff wellbeing. TLC Care has been awarded platinum accreditation on the new Investors in People Wellbeing Framework, becoming the first workplace in any industry to achieve the highest available grade. Homes were praised for being completely agency-free, with a host of wellbeing initiatives, training and development opportunities contributing to impressive staff retention, low levels of absence, and progression opportunities. The Investors in People ‘We Invest in Wellbeing’ framework identifies platinum organisations as those that are high performing across their practice – including actively improving people’s health and wellbeing, and encouraging a positive workplace culture. The award-winning care provider, which operates nine homes providing nursing, residential, respite and dementia care, also retained its Platinum Investors in People accreditation after first achieving the mark in 2020, and achieved Hospitality Assured World Class status across all homes to complete a trio of major accreditations. Paavan Popat, CEO of TLC Care, said: “To be the first organisation ever to achieve Platinum Investors in People Wellbeing Accreditation is an incredible achievement and a testament to the passion and dedication our teams have for the wellness and health of one another. “This in turn has positively impacted on team member engagement, retention, career progression, recruitment and the overall care that is provided to our residents who are at the heart of all we do. “Over the past three years we have been really focused on our journey to retaining our overall Platinum status, whilst incorporating the Investors in People Wellbeing accreditation. “We are incredibly proud of our team member Wellness Framework, which captures how we support our team members to bring their whole selves to work, how we promote good mental health for all and how we develop our leaders at every level to champion wellness.” As part of its Wellness Framework,

TLC Care works with its team members to set individual 30-day wellness plans focussing on healthy eating, exercise, sleep, engaging with nature and spending time with family and friends. Additionally, 30 Mental Health First Aiders have been added across the group in the last four years to break down the stigma around mental health and promote good work-life balance for all employees. Training for these roles and a range of other key areas including medication awareness, food safety and manual handling is created and delivered in-house – giving employees the chance to mentor others in areas they are skilled at. Mandatory dementia training, which has been developed in consultation with experts and residents and includes a sensory experience to help staff understand what it may feel like to live with dementia, helps team members build better relationships with customers and feel more confident in their work. Care team members have opportunities to progress to senior roles such as Unit Managers and Home Managers and regularly attended development courses, with many employees taking on ‘TLC Care Champion’ roles for their home in areas such as End of Life, Safeguarding, Infection and Prevention Control, and Medication Management and Pain. Onboarding coaches help to integrate new employees with ongoing guidance and support, while overseas team members are provided with a meet and greet and transport from the airport, one month’s free accommodation, English lessons where required, support finding permanent accommodation, and information packs and advice about the area they will be living in. All homes also operate a ‘support cupboard’ allowing team members to pick up essentials such as hygiene products and tinned food to take home. The report concluded that TLC Care is “demonstrating outperformance and leading the way” as part of a “people-centric culture”. The organisation’s wellbeing strategy ensures its methods and successes are repeatable across the business, enabling constant improvement informed by employee feedback and a positive culture.

CARINGNEWS

Excellent rating for Dawlish care home Staff’s dedication is recognised at awards ceremony CARERS, nurses and support staff have been recognised for their outstanding dedication at the 2023 Meallmore Colleague Awards. The event, now in its 12th year, returned to the Dunblane Hydro, with 200 people in attendance from the operator’s 26 care homes across Scotland. Presented by singer and TV personality, Michelle McManus, the awards celebrated Meallmore employees who have made a positive impact on improving the lives of colleagues, residents and their family members over the past 12 months. Cillian Hennessey, managing director of Meallmore, said: “We’re extremely proud of all our colleagues and their hard work and commitment. “We regularly see individuals going the extra mile in providing the highest standards of care for our residents and so this awards ceremony is a perfect opportunity to acknowledge them. “I would personally like to say a huge thank you to every one of our colleagues at Meallmore as they each make a real difference to the lives of our residents across Scotland. “All finalists show exceptional dedication to our company, and the winners are thoroughly welldeserved. ” With 14 awards categories in total, including ‘Emerging Talent’, ‘Excellence in Support Services’ and ‘Manager of the Year’, more than 1,000 submissions were put forward – more than those received for 2022’s awards. There was also a new category introduced for 2023 – ‘Brand Ambassador of the Year’. A ‘Special Recognition Award’ was given to three individuals: Steve Gordon, Merralee (Mel) Walker and Andrew Rodden for their response in preparing one of Meallmore’s

Daviot Care Home near Inverness for evacuation when wildfires threatened the home during the summer. Following the event they received a letter of commendation from the emergency services due to their approach and preparedness. Nominations weren’t put forward for this award, with the recipients being selected for their resilience and integrity in the face of an extraordinary situation. Nominations for all other categories were received from residents and their families, visiting professionals and other colleagues. The company employs around 1,700 people - all of whom were eligible for a nomination. Winners were: Emerging Talent – Courteney Forrester, Alderwood; Excellence in Support Services – Agnes Fullerton, Kynnaird; Positive Impact – Natalie Wilkie, Antonine House; Manager of the Year – Suzanne Pitt, Hilton Court; Senior Carer/ Practitioner – Fiona Sutherland, Redwoods; Head Office and Field Based Support Team – Isabel Szeliga; Meaningful Activities – Jade Innes, Bayview; Elderly Home Service – Kynnaird House; Nurse of the Year – Kamil Zietek, Mearns House; Carer of the Year – Jade McPherson, The Oaks; Mental Health Home – Hilton Court; Brand Ambassador – Mel Walker and Andrew Rodden, Daviot House; Meals Mean More – Dan McGonigle, Kincaid House. Category winners were presented with a certificate, trophy and choice of prize, which included an Apple watch, Samsung Galaxy watch, Nintendo Switch, Ooni pizza oven, Ninja dual air fryer or Fitbit Sense. The winners of the ‘Special Recognition Award’ each received a £250 Amazon voucher and a certificate.

A Chipping Campden care home is celebrating its hospitality manager who has won The Outstanding Contribution Award at the Gloucester Care Providers Care Awards. The accolades recognise extraordinary achievements of individuals and teams working in the care sector. Paul Dixon, hospitality manager at Mill House, part of Aria Care, was presented with the prestigious award in a glittering ceremony. He said: “The key to winning such a prestigious award is having an employer who embraces unique ideas, empowers their staff to suggest chances, and gives them the freedom to run with their ideas – all of which Aria Care does for us.” Paul was chosen as a finalist in three categories - The Outstanding Contribution Award, Innovation in Social Care Award and the Leadership Award.

A DAWLISH care home has received an ‘excellent’ rating for the care of its residents by specialist dementia care home auditors. Sefton Hall received the rating for its approach to care by Meaningful Care Matters, who praised the team for creating a homely environment and the care home manager for her ‘second to none’ leadership skills. Founded in 2019, MCM aims to change the culture of care by ensuring people have purpose, are empowered to be themselves and have meaningful relationships within their care setting. MCM rate care providers on the care environment, the individual care plans (including the use of medication) and the meaningful relationships between staff and residents. Those care providers who demonstrate a high number of meaningful interactions against a long list of criteria, are awarded the status of a Butterfly Home. Auditor Nancy Cunningham said: “The leadership provided by Gabriela [Ogreanu] is second to none. On several occasions throughout the day, various members of the team expressed how much they respect and appreciate having her as a mentor and a leader. “There is a clear sense of a high level of wellbeing in the team. They strongly support each other and are very proud of the level of care they provide.” Sefton Hall is part of the Southern Healthcare group of four care homes in Devon. There are two home areas within the house, with Cedar having a particular focus on the needs of

Sefton Hall care home manager Gabriela Ogreanu people living with dementia. Southern Healthcare CEO Geoffrey Cox added: “The team at Sefton Hall work tirelessly to provide a high level of care for the residents, both in terms of their physical needs and their wellbeing. “The feedback from the MCM auditors on the day was excellent and this report is a positive springboard in our continuing endeavours to provide high quality care where the residents are at the centre of everything we do.” The report also praised the home for its decorative hallways, attractive indoor spaces and access to the garden, as well as their interactions with the residents and their personcentred approach to care. Gabriela Ogreanu added: “The care and interaction we have with our residents is specific to the individual resident’s needs and wishes. Their life history, likes and dislikes are the central part of their care plan.”

Members gather to celebrate Awards THE National Association of Care Catering gathered in Nottingham to celebrate the great and the good of care catering at the NACC Awards. The prestigious awards shine a spotlight on the many outstanding contributions to care catering over the past 12 months. An abundance of innovation, excellence and dedication was demonstrated by the winning teams and individuals, together with resilience, agility and care, in what has continued to be a challenging period for the care catering sector. The NACC Awards 2023 gala awards dinner was held at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham. Sue Cawthray, national chair of the NACC, said: “A very big congratulations to all the 2023 award winners. “It is always a real privilege to recognise the extraordinary contributions so many have made to care catering, especially throughout such hard times. “I was proud to present our worthy winners with their awards in person. “The NACC Awards is an opportunity to honour our winners, and this evening was a real

celebration of the care catering sector. “The shortlists continue to inspire me, and the judges, and we can all agree that this year’s finalists and winners are a true reflection of everyone in our sector who has and continues to work so tirelessly, selflessly and innovatively even though they have seen us through the pandemic only to face the current cost of living crisis, amid the growing recruitment issues. “All the winners are superb ambassadors of what is such a rewarding sector.” Winners were: Meals on Wheels– shared between Meal Makers, Food Train, Molesey Centre for the Community, Health and Independent Living Support and MyChef Meals on wheels; Catering Team – Hotel Services Team, FSHC Group; Catering Manager of the Year – Stuart Middleton, Renaissance Care; Our Care Catering Hero – Julie Setterfield, Elmbridge Borough Council; The Bev Puxley Award – Valerie Kelly, Houndswood House; Region of the Year – South East; Pam Rhodes Outstanding Achievement Award – Alison Smith; NACC National Chair’s Award – Mark Taylor.

CARINGNEWS

In his latest in a series of regular columns, care provider Mike Padgham, who is chair of the Independent Care Group, gives us his personal take on the big issues facing social care.

All I want for Christmas is ... CHRISTMAS is almost upon us, so what sort of festive season are we going to have this year? Is it to be, in the words of the carol, a ‘Ding Dong Merrily on High!’ or more of an ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’? I suppose, like many of us, all I want for Christmas is social care reform, a better deal for the social care workforce and some care for the 1.6m people who can’t currently get any. At the very least a glimmer of hope… I’m not sure any of those things are on Santa’s list, however good we have all been this year… We have had some early Christmas gifts though. A new Health and Social Care Secretary for a start. It’s early days but maybe she will have some goodies in her sack to put under the Christmas tree. We can but hope and a fresh start for 2024 would be nice. The Christmas messages from afar came early this year, dropping on the doormat during November. The National Audit Office sent us a card, revealing that the Government has cut the funding for its planned reform of social care by 58 per cent – diverting some £1bn of the £1.7bn allocated, to other priorities. ADASS writes that 250,000 people were waiting to have their care needs assessed this summer, adding that councils need an extra £900m to stabilise the sector. The Homecare Association says only five per cent of councils and NHS trusts are paying the minimum hourly rate needed to cover the delivery of homecare care, putting providers at risk. The Association says more than £2bn extra a year needs to be invested in homecare just to meet current demand. No surprise that the BBC Data Unit wrote to tell

Mike Padgham us that up to 58 per cent (13,000 people) are unable to leave hospital even though they could – mainly because there is no homecare and residential care available. And a note from the NHS to say that hospital waiting lists are up – some 7.77m people waiting for non-emergency care in September – up from 7.75m in August. More than a million are waiting for more than one procedure. In his pre-Christmas message, England’s chief

medical officer, Prof Sir Chris Whitty, warned that older people, particularly those living in deprived regions, faced significant health issues unless improvements to healthcare provision were made. Not much festive cheer to be had there then. With so many warnings – and more being added every day – you might think that something could be done. But Scrooge doesn’t seem to have had the visit yet about social care’s future and so we are still Tiny Tim Cratchit in the early part of Dickens’ book, seriously ill and just about clinging on… However, as we all know ‘A Christmas Carol’ does have a happy ending after Mr Scrooge decides to mend his ways. Tiny Tim gets the treatment he needs to survive and all live happily ever after. I’m an eternal optimist and remain hopeful that change is just around the corner for social care. The Independent Care Group has sent its Christmas list to the Government on many occasions – including to the new Secretary of State – so who knows what we’ll find on Christmas morning. Our ‘five gold rings’ are: To ring fence a percentage of GDP to be spent on providing social care to those who already receive it and the 1.6m who can’t get it; create a unified National Care Service, incorporating health and social care; set a National Minimum Wage per hour for care staff on a par with NHS; set up an urgent social care task force to oversee reform and to fix ‘fair price for care’ tariffs for things like care beds and homecare visits. I hope and believe that change is coming in 2024 – whether that’s through a change of Secretary of State, a change of direction or even a change of Government. God bless us, every one.

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New home to open early next year A STATE-of-the-art £13.5million care home under construction in Biddenham, Bedford is set to create up to 75 jobs. Bentley Grange, set to be opened in March 2024 by the Maria Mallaband Care Group, will provide a luxurious living environment with 60 en-suite bedrooms across three floors, multiple lounges, restaurants, communal areas and social spaces. The new home will feature a cinema, wellness suite, beauty salon, rooftop bar and terrace in landscaped grounds, with both private and shared patios and quiet terraces, with planting to encourage bees, butterflies and other wildlife to visit. With several rooms such as the drawing room and garden lounge offering direct access to these outdoor space, fresh air and nature will be a feature of everyday life in the home. Annelli Chatfield, group commissioning manager at Maria

Bentley Grange in Biddenham, Bedford will open early next year. Mallaband Care Group, said: can continue to live both full and “Bentley Grange will offer an elegant rewarding lives, maintaining their environment and a personalised independence and pursuing their care experience, where people interests. We are looking forward to

making this home spectacular with an incredible care team and a lifestyle offering that will enhance every day.” Bentley Grange is the latest home to be developed by the Maria Mallaband Care Group, which has more than 80 care homes across the country. This project comes with many high expectations after the success of their other recently opened homes – Chartwell Manor in Aylesbury and Lace Hill Manor in Buckingham. The purpose-built homes have created more than 200 jobs. The new home, designed for dementia, residential and nursing care, is under construction by contractor Lawrence Baker Ltd. The interiors are being designed by Rebecca Hunter of Rebecca Hartley Interiors, who works exclusively with MMCG and has also designed several of the group’s other homes including Chartwell Manor and Claremont Manor in Devon.

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We are delighted to confirm the recent completed sale of The Avenue Care Home located in central Malvern, the charming Victorian Worcestershire Spa town. The Home, registered for 25 enjoys a town centre location and provides care for patients with Mental Health and Learning Disability as their primary diagnosis. Fully management operated and with an impressive CQC rating of “Good” in all five categories. The Home has operated successfully and profitably under the present ownership since 2002 and has been sold on behalf of Mr Nayeem & Mrs Nicola Manji and purchased by Messrs Abbas Nurmohamed and Mujtaba Virani.

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Lamont Johnson Ltd Dear Grayson Re: Sale of The Avenue Care Home We are delighted to have completed the sale of The Avenue after our decision to sell after 22 years in business, and wanted to thank you for your expert assistance in facilitating the sale. You have a complete understanding of the Care Home industry which is invaluable. We appreciated your down to earth personality and sheer determination to get the deal over the line during some challenging encounters with the buyers. At times the process was very arduous and stressful, but your expertise and support made all the difference. It was reassuring to know that you made yourself available out of hours to answer any queries we had. We were grateful that you recommended a solicitor who was excellent with a real understanding of Care Homes, and again like yourself was so helpful and patient. We would also like to thank Dawn for keeping us informed and on track throughout. We would not hesitate to recommend Lamont Johnson to anyone considering selling their Care Home in the future. Yours sincerely Nayeem and Nicola Manji

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18 A care and support charity has announced the appointment of Jemima Burnage as its chief quality and risk officer. With more than two decades of experience working within quality, governance and safeguarding, Jemima joins Community Integrated Care from the Care Quality Commission, where she is currently deputy director of mental health in England. Her previous experience includes working closely with the Department of Health and Social Care and roles at Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, where she developed expertise across a wide range of service types and provision. Jemima will step into her new position at the end of January 2024, taking the reins from Carolyn McConnell, who will be retiring after five years at the charity.

A North Yorkshire social care body has added a new member to its Board to strengthen its commitment to workforce and training. The Independent Care Group represents providers across York and North Yorkshire and has announced that Claire Barwick is joining its Board of Directors. Claire is head of curriculum, health, education and nursing at CU Scarborough and has more than 30 years’ experience in the health and social care sector. She said: “Joining the ICG board is a huge honour, and I am looking forward to having the opportunity to support the independent and voluntary care industry as they navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. I am hoping that I can bring a wealth of experience not only of health and care but also the education and training opportunities and influences that could support the sector going forward.” The Abbeyfield Society’s head of relationships and development, Abdul A. Ravat, has been appointed chair of the National Housing Federation’s Older Persons’ Housing Group. Abdul will take up the chair vacated by Yvonne Castle, chief executive officer of Johnnie Johnson Housing Trust. The group pulls together the expertise of other housing associations across England, academics and Older Persons’ Champions. Meetings are regularly attended by representatives from organisations including Homes England, Housing LIN and the Regulator of Social Housing, and from Government departments including DLUHC and DHSC. The central aims of the group are to promote the housing needs and aspirations of current and future residents of older persons’ accommodation and to press for the removal of barriers to increase the supply of truly affordable housing.

Sally-Anne Redhead has been appointed as registered manager at Malsis Hall near Keighley, with Craig Chatburn joining as the care home manager. Sally-Anne, who is a qualified nurse, worked within the NHS for 41 years. She brings with her a rich background in nursing and management having successfully led various healthcare facilities over the last 20 years, with a focus on fostering a positive and caring environment for individuals and staff alike. Sally-Anne has expertise in caring for people with mental health conditions, autism and learning difficulties. Craig has more than two decades of experience as a nurse and manager in various care and healthcare settings across the region and has a wealth of practical knowledge and insight in delivering the highest quality care. Grove Care Home in Kemnay has announced the appointment of new care home manager, Moira Taylor. Moira started her career in nursing with the NHS 40 years ago, building up her clinical experience before moving to the private care sector. She joins Meallmore with more than 15 years of managerial experience. Since 2015 she managed an Aberdeenshire home providing residential, dementia and nursing care for another care provider. She most recently spent the last three years as area manager for the same care group, looking after homes across the East of Scotland, supporting nine facilities from Edinburgh up to Dornoch. Moira continues to build her knowledge base by gaining additional qualifications from Dundee University, and most recently completed a module on ‘Perceptions of a Care Home Nurse’, something she feels passionately about.

Vida Healthcare has appointed Arron Bolland as learning development and quality manager to lead its bespoke training and development department, Vida Academy. Arron will be responsible for managing Vida Academy and the learning, development and performance team, overseeing the creation and implementation of continuous training programmes for all staff roles at Vida Healthcare. In his new capacity, Arron will also ensure that Vida Healthcare’s certified PIDC programme continuously meets Restraint Reduction Network standards that focus on behaviour support and interventions for residents. His career with Vida Healthcare commenced as a carer in 2013 before seeing him progress through a number of roles including team leader, registered nurse, clinical lead and quality manager. Arron graduated from Sheffield Hallam University in 2013 with an Advanced Diploma in Nursing Studies (Mental Health) and holds a Level 4 Diploma in leadership and management.

A not-for-profit care provider, headquartered in Yorkshire, has announced the appointment of two financial controllers to its team. Helen Worsley and Sam Kind have joined the finance team at HICA Group to help support financial management across the organisation, as it continues to grow and extend its range of care services across the region. Helen and Sam bring a combined wealth of expertise in financial management, control and strategy, with extensive experience across the public and private sector. Helen previously worked at PWC and telecommunications company KCOM, while Sam held positions in the UK’s civil service and with independent care provider Pickering and Ferens Homes. Their skills in driving financial accuracy, efficiency and compliance will play a key role in HICA’s mission to deliver high-quality, person-centred care. Peregrine House in Whitby is enjoying a renaissance and refresh under the inspirational eye of home-grown employee Joe Bowman. Appointed home manager in August, Joe first joined Peregrine House in 2013 straight from school as an apprentice. Trained and nurtured in the business he has worked his way up through the ranks in a multitude of early roles including laundry, cleaning and kitchen assistant. Joe then spent three years as a care assistant before becoming a senior and then going away for university training in nursing care. He arrived back at Peregrine House just in time for the Covid lockdown and spent three months in a work bubble lock-in which preserved the safety of all the residents.

Work completes on Specialists in recruiting care new £6m care home professionals from overseas the next chapter of their lives. “We’re already welcoming our first residents to Sleaford Manor and would urge anyone who would like to find out more about the outstanding levels of care offered and the luxury facilities to get in contact with us.” Sleaford Manor’s spacious bedrooms are all fully furnished with their own en-suite bathrooms. Those on the ground floor have private patio areas and there are also premium suites, with their own lounge areas, which will appeal to couples or siblings. Facilities include an in-house bar, restaurant standard dining rooms, a full beauty salon and hairdressing room, a cinema, private dining rooms and outdoor terraces on each floor. The development is surrounded by landscaped gardens with private seating areas, as well as a bowling green and allotments.

JJ Recruitment is based in the UK and we specialise in recruiting competent nurses, health care assistants, senior carers and other health care professionals from overseas, especially from India, Philippines and the UK as well; since they will be finished studying/ working in UK care homes and want to switch from a Tier 4 to a Tier 2 VISA. Our company’s expertise in discovering skilled and dedicated health care personnel in the nursing and caring sector will be a great aid to prestigious care institutions like yours, especially with the growing need for trained and talented healthcare personnel in the UK. We are familiar with all of the procedures for hiring a new employee and can assist you every step of the way. A sponsor license is essential for UK firms intending to employ anyone

from outside the UK, regardless of whether they are EU citizens or from further afield. This license allows the company to sponsor skilled workers through the ‘skilled worker’ route. If you don’t already have one, we’ll apply on your behalf by filling out the application form and submitting the supporting information listed in appendix A of the sponsor guidance. For all legal matters we have our own team of qualified solicitors. Our areas of expertise: n Fees are kept to a minimum. n Applicants are medically trained/ registered Nurses in their countries. n Applicants are fluent in English. n Provide accommodation facilities if necessary. n Assist in acquiring sponsorship license. n Experienced solicitors for all legal matters.

WORK is complete on a new care home in Sleaford that offers 67 bedrooms alongside first-class amenities, with the first residents now moving into their new homes. Sleaford Manor is the latest development in Brough headquartered Yorkare’s portfolio of care homes which are located throughout Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. The £6 million development was built by Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm Hobson and Porter. It is the seventh project the company has completed for Yorkare since 2015. Nicola Anderson, Yorkare’s marketing and community engagement manager, said: “Sleaford Manor is our 10th care home, which is a major milestone for us, and it’s already proving very popular with people in and around Sleaford who are looking for a special place to start

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Dr Kevin Moore, director of nursing; Ashley Robinson; Ryan Smith, chief executive; and Emma Kerrigan

Training academy launched DUNLUCE Healthcare has announced the launch of its innovative new career development programme. With the aim of building longlasting careers in the healthcare industry, Dunluce Academy will encompass practical training with structural education programmes and mentorship across a range of job roles. The initiative is spearheaded by Dunluce Healthcare’s chief executive Ryan Smith. He said: “We recognise the importance of providing exceptional care to our residents. “The Dunluce Academy represents our dedication to investing in the

development of our team and providing a nurturing environment that encourages personal growth and professional advancement. “Our comprehensive approach to learning is what sets us apart, and our new Academy will allow us to go beyond what most healthcare businesses offer, supporting employee advancement through continuous training, vocational courses, and academic programmes.” The news follows the recent unveiling of plans for ‘The Peninsula’, a state-of-the-art £10m nursing home facility in Newtownards which is set to create 110 permanent roles, including 16 nursing positions.

SPECIAL guests, members of the community and furry friends were all in attendance to celebrate the launch of Cardiff’s newest care home. Care UK’s Llys Herbert celebrated a special milestone as resident Maureen Ashfield, along with the Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Councillor Bablin Molik, cut the ribbon to officially open the new care home. Also joining the celebrations were members of Goldies Cymru and guests from Guide Dogs for the Blind – including some of the group’s fourlegged volunteers. Home manager Therisa Galazka said: “Our launch party was a huge success and the perfect way to officially open Llys Herbert. “Our neighbours have been so warm and welcoming, and we loved meeting so many local people during the event – we already feel like part of the community. “We were delighted to be joined by our special guests and would like to extend a big thank you to Maureen and Councillor Bablin Molik for cutting the ribbon. “It truly was a day to remember and we hope to welcome everyone again very soon.” After being treated to a glass of bubbly, guests enjoyed live entertainment from Cerys Rees, a local harpist, as well as the Corpus Christi High School Choir and a brass band to get everyone into the party

Therisa Galazka, home manager at Llys Herbert, with Councillor Bablin Molik, Lord Mayor of Cardiff. spirit. To make it an afternoon to remember, the team at Llys Herbert also organised a host of exciting activities for the whole family, including cookie decorating and the chance to sample some of the homecooked meals available at the home. Llys Herbert is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the home has its very own cinema, café and hair salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.

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Revolutionising care homes with Forbes Connect – a new era in commercial laundry IN THE fast-evolving landscape of care homes, Forbes Professional takes a significant step forward with the introduction of Forbes Connect; featuring state-of-the-art Miele washers, dryers, and dishwashers. This innovative new offering seamlessly integrates technology to deliver an unparalleled connected laundry experience for care facilities. At the heart of Forbes Connect is a ground-breaking 24/7 intelligent remote monitoring system, providing both our engineers and our clients with real-time insights into the operational status of Miele laundry machines. This transformative feature ensures a pro-active approach to maintenance, further reducing any downtime and enhancing the overall efficiency of laundry operations. Our dedicated team of engineers operate from an expansive network around the UK and are ready for intervention should issues be digitally identified. This pro-active approach minimises disruptions and helps us remotely identify faults to increase

first time fix rates. It also optimises the lifespan of Miele commercial laundry machines, offering care homes peace of mind and uninterrupted service. When a fault is detected, Forbes

Connect ensures a prompt response by sending notifications directly to our customer service team. Leveraging advanced logistics, our team efficiently allocates engineers based on proximity and availability,

guaranteeing a swift resolution to any laundry machine issues. In line with the global push for sustainability, Forbes Connect goes a step further by monitoring temperature and water resource usage. This invaluable tool not only aids care homes in achieving their sustainability targets but also sheds light on the true efficiency of Miele commercial laundry machines. Care facilities can now make informed decisions to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on the quality of service. Forbes Connect is another step in our commitment to revolutionise the laundry experience in care homes. By harnessing cutting-edge technology, we empower care facilities to deliver impeccable service seamlessly, ensuring that residents’ comfort and well-being remain at the forefront of every operation. www.forbespro.co.uk info@forbes-professional.co.uk 0345 070 2335

Resources available to help raise awareness of Meals on Wheels MEALS on Wheels is an essential service that could help adults with care and support needs continue living independently in their homes and communities for longer. Because Meals on Wheels can delay the move into residential care or nursing homes, receiving the service could relieve current pressures faced by the Care sector and industry. Many people, however, are not aware that the service still exists in England, or that Meals on Wheels could provide benefits that go beyond nutrition. Researchers at the School for Policy Studies at the University of Bristol worked with an advisory group of people with lived experience of Meals on Wheels to raise awareness of this important service.

They co-produced two infographics and a film, aimed at adults with care and support needs who could benefit from Meals on Wheels, and people who could refer an adult with care and support needs to Meals on Wheels. These resources should be of particular relevance to social care and support workers employed via social care agencies, as well as domiciliary care and ancillary care workers and organisations. The resources are free to download and re-use, after reviewing a licence agreement and answering a few questions, from https://expresslicences.bristol.ac.uk/product/mealson-wheels-awareness-raising-aids This work, and the co-produced resources, could have important

implications for adult social care practice in England, as raising awareness of Meals on Wheels and the service’s benefits could increase referral rates, so that more adults with care and support needs can benefit from the service and live in their homes and communities for longer. For more information about the research, which was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research School for Social Care Research, please visithttps:// mealsonwheels.blogs.bristol. ac.uk/2023/09/30/meals-on-wheels/ Please address any enquiries to Dr Angeliki Papadaki (Associate Professor in Public Health Nutrition, School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol): angeliki.papadaki@bristol.ac.uk.

Empowering your workforce – unlocking opportunities JOB Connections has specialised in the successful recruitment of international nurses, senior carers and carers into the UK since 2002, along with handling all immigration matters related to these placements Recruiting nurses from outside the UK/EU now demands skill and an understanding of the Nursing and Midwifery Council requirements, as well as compliance with the immigration regulations mandated by UK Visas and Immigration. Our comprehensive service covers not only sourcing and short-listing suitable nurses for UK employers but alsocoordinating travel into the UK and assisting with the booking of OSCE exams where needed.

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Recruitment of overseas staff We understand the value of a skilled and dedicated workforce. We have successfully placed more than 3,000 staff in residential, care, and nursing homes across the UK. Our clients, ranging from large care home groups to individual residential homes, have experienced firsthand the transformation that international talent can bring to their teams. Our commitment to

excellence and reliability is what sets us apart. Employers can trust us to secure qualified, professional, and compassionate staff who meet service obligations with the utmost dedication. This stability has allowed businesses to expand, fostering an environment where both employees and service users thrive. Immigration services Navigating the complex landscape of UK immigration can be a daunting task. Job Connections is proud to be a licensed UK immigration advisor with the Office of Immigration

Service Commission. Our expertise allows us to guide individuals and their families through the intricate matters related to UK visas, ensuring a smooth transition into the UK workforce. We provide guidance and advice on becoming a registered UKVI Sponsor, including determining the necessary supporting documents and offering insights into sponsor duties. Employers seeking overseas staff can sponsor them for a skilled worker visa, provided the job offered meets the required skill level set out by UKVI. Job Connections can assist with applying for a UKVI sponsor license and Certificates of Sponsorship.

CARINGNEWS Advertiser’s announcement

Reducing the care home staffing crisis through specialist bathing THE healthcare sector is experiencing a staffing crisis. How can tangible interventions, such as powered bathroom solutions which enable single-handed care practices, support the demands placed upon staff? Challenges in staff recruitment and retention are creating significant pressures and workload on existing care home employees. The Care Quality Commission’s Annual State of Care 2021 report warned of a “tsunami of unmet need”, with some care homes already withdrawing the provision of nursing care. Without supportive measures in place, such as quality assistive baths and adaptive equipment which champion smaller working teams, pressures on remaining care staff may only grow. For instance, it is widely recognised

that care sector employees are at higher risk of back and musculoskeletal injuries. With reduced staffing capacity, back pain and inability to work may increase without specialist powered equipment in place to support singlehanded care procedures. Ultimately, staff reduction creates a situation in which residents may lose out on quality time. The bathing experience, for example, can be emotionally negative and physically challenging for both resident and carer without appropriate assistive equipment, which often leads to baths not being used at all. It is estimated that care home residents are three times more likely to fall than people living at home. Slippery and uneven floor surfaces, toilets at the incorrect height, insufficient lighting, lack of safely secured handrails and ill-

maintained transfer equipment such as wheelchairs and hoists, are all risk factors. An accessible well-designed bathroom provides many benefits and can support care teams under pressure. Powered baths with heightadjustment, bather transfer seats and leg-lift functionality provide ease-ofuse and greater control, and support efficient transfers in and out of the bath without the need for manual lifting. Robert Myers, head of care pathways at Ardale, who has commissioned specialist baths in all of the group’s homes, said: “The care of our residents is important, however, so is the support of our staff. “Power assisted movement takes the stress out of bathing by eliminating moving and handling risks and potential back injury.”

Furthermore, specialist baths from Gainsborough Specialist Bathrooms with antimicrobial technology builtin, can provide greater hygiene and 99 per cent 24/7 protection against influenza A H1N1, E. coli, Salmonella and CRO, CRE, VRE and MRSA. By enhancing hygiene, we can support the drive to reduce staff absence caused by ill health. In seeking ways to safely reduce workloads on a more long-term scale, through ergonomic, adapted bathroom equipment, for instance, the care home industry can boost operational efficiency and ensure single-handed care practices can be delivered more easily, safely, and effectively. Investing in specialist equipment is a worthwhile and much needed investment in carer and service-user wellbeing. www.gainsboroughbaths.com

Advertiser’s announcement

The Princess Royal Training Awards – celebrating excellence in learning and development ORGANISATIONS from all sectors across the UK and Ireland came together at St James’s Palace recently to celebrate outstanding practice in training, learning and development. In what has been the best year for the Princess Royal Training Awards since they were established in 2016, there were 53 awardees, each receiving their awards from HRH The Princess Royal. The pinnacle of achievement in L&D, the Awards are completely free and royally recognise employers committed to training who can show exceptional impact on their organisation. What’s more, organisations do not compete against one another, they simply need to meet the Awards’ criteria. Applicants receive unrivalled support throughout the process and there is even an opportunity to get feedback from assessors on a draft application! Organisations large and small from the care sector have achieved these prestigious Awards. Leading independent physiotherapy

provider Ascenti received an Award in 2023 for its clinical development programme. Learning and clinical development lead Alexandra Stead said: “For our staff and prospective employees, this accolade provides assurance that they will receive award-winning support to help them develop their practice and progress in their career. “As a trusted partner to the NHS and hundreds of insurers, solicitors and private businesses, this shows that Ascenti is committed to investing in industry-leading training and development for its clinicians, and enhancing patient care.” Applications open on December 4. If your organisation is looking to be recognised for a training programme which has positively impacted your organisation, you can apply at https:// www.princessroyaltrainingawards.com/ how-to-apply/register-your-interestand-apply/?utm_source=caringuk&utm_ medium=editorial&utm_ campaign=prta24&utm_content=dec-23.

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