Issue 95 16.02.22
The weekly online newsletter for the care sector
Bureaucracy slows down recruitment CARE providers have welcomed the opportunity to recruit staff from overseas again but warned that bureaucracy is slowing down the process. Care workers are now included on the Shortage Occupation List, opening the door for providers to recruit from outside the UK again. But as they welcomed the option, the care provider organisation, The Independent Care Group warned that there were delays in the system. Chair Mike Padgham said: “Social care is facing its biggest staffing crisis in living memory and anything that alleviates that is welcome indeed. “But providers are now experiencing lengthy delays in getting the licences needed to recruit staff, which is the last thing we need. “We need these staff to provide care today and tomorrow, not sometime in the future when the bureaucracy is sorted out. The Government needs to streamline this process, or we will be no better off. “This obstacle should never have been put in our way in the first place. But then once a decision had been taken to remove it, we should not have had to wait this long – it was announced on Christmas Eve
after all. “Now we are finding that there are further delays. It is simply not acceptable for a sector that is on its knees already. The people who need care and those providing it deserve better than this.” Pre-Covid-19 there were at least 120,000 vacancies in the sector and it is estimated that the ‘no jab, no job’ Covid-19 vaccination policy – introduced in November for care and nursing homes – added at least 20,000 to that figure. The Government itself says that figure could be nearer 40,000. The Care Quality Commission estimated that one in 10 care home staff positions in England were unfilled at the end of 2021, as the vacancy rate hit 11.5 per cent. The sector lost staff due to the rules on employing overseas staff post-Brexit. But after much campaigning from bodies like the ICG, the Government announced on Christmas Eve that social care staff would be included on the Shortage Occupation List, opening the door for providers to recruit from outside the UK again. To bring staff in from overseas, care providers need to apply for a sponsor licence but they are experiencing lengthy delays to these applications being processed.
Care home showcases its talents
Residents at Chelmunds Court in Birmingham have been spreading the love with Valentine’s themed activities and events. The team baked some delicious sweet treats which included lots of pink cupcakes to fit with the theme. And the residents were able to enjoy the cakes they made with a cup of tea at their Valentine’s tea party. The home’s dining area was adorned with pink themed decorations and the residents enjoyed delicious refreshments, an exciting singalong and dance, entertaining party games and a lovely chat with their friends. Home manager Geraldine Alfonso said: “The team and residents really enjoyed the Valentine’s tea party. It was lovely to see the smiles and laughter and everyone having great fun. We always try to organise a variety of different activities and events that everyone is able to get involved in.” n For more Valentine’s fun turn to page 9.
RESIDENTS at a Dorset care home have showcased their acting and singing talents in a mini production of the musical Oliver! Since the beginning of the year, Colten Care’s Whitecliffe House in Blandford Forum has rung to the sounds of toe-tapping tunes such as Consider Yourself, Reviewing the Situation and Pick a Pocket or Two. Companionship team member Caroline Pugh said: “We have so many musical residents and everyone involved in the production was happy to put their heart and soul into rehearsing songs and short excerpts ready for a performance to other residents and staff.” Lead character Oliver, played by resident Sylvia Drew, was very convincing in her delivery of the famous line: “Please, sir, I want some more!”, while Maureen Smith’s quiet humour proved a good choice for Dodger and Lois Ramsden excelled in the role of crafty Fagin. Born in London’s East End, Shirley Thomson was the perfect Nancy. And to complete the line-up, Coralie Jackson was an austere Mr Bumble and home manager Chris Lee was a suitably dastardly Bill Sykes. Caroline added: “Singing is a fantastic activity for health and wellbeing and is something our residents really look forward to each week. It has been an absolute pleasure to see the fun and laughter enjoyed by all.”
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CARINGWEEKLY
Celebrations as scheme receives ‘Good’ rating Group steps in to save much-loved care home A NORTH Yorkshire operator has stepped in to save a Whitby nursing home from the brink of closure. Saint Cecilia’s Care Group will take over Oakland in the next few weeks, securing the care of its residents and the jobs of its staff. All existing staff are being offered posts with the new employer, matching their current pay, terms and conditions. The new owners have immediately begun recruiting new staff for the home and are looking for applicants for a number of posts. Saint Cecilia’s director Aaron Padgham said: “We are pleased to welcome Oakland into the Saint Cecilia’s family and to ensure the continuity of care for its lovely residents and employment for its staff. “We look forward to working with Oakland’s staff team, building upon what they have there and hopefully adding some Saint Cecilia’s magic to take the home forward to a bright, new future. “We know there is work to do at Oakland and an opportunity to improve the home, as we have when we have taken on other homes in the past.
“The home faces challenges, but these are challenges that we, as care providers of some 30-plus years, have faced before. We have a track record of turning homes round.” Oakland becomes Saint Cecilia’s second nursing home, joining Saint Cecilia’s in Scarborough. The company also has Saint Cecilia’s and Normanby House care homes and Saint Cecilia’s Day Care centre in Scarborough and the Alba Rose care home in Pickering. The addition of Oakland is part of a steady and planned growth for Saint Cecilia’s. Aaron added: “To survive and prosper in the current economic climate, we believe that the business needs to keep growing and the purchase of Oakland goes towards achieving that aim. “It might seem that, in a time of great challenge for social care, we are going against the trend but for us it makes sense. It helps us to grow and strengthen the company and also provides opportunities for progression across the group for all our staff. “This is an exciting move for us and begins an exciting new chapter for Oakland Nursing Home.”
A NORTH Yorkshire extra care scheme for people over the age of 65 is celebrating being rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission following its first inspection. Fry Court in Great Ayton, operated by Housing 21, welcomed its first residents in June 2020, and provides private and secure apartments with access to on-site care for those who need it. The scheme has a dedicated housing and care manager and an on-site care team which is available 24/7. The report highlighted the scheme’s strengths in developing positive, caring relationships with residents and emphasised the choice and control residents have to live independently. It added: “People and their relatives told us they were happy with the care and support they received from Fry Court. “People received their care from a consistent staff team, with whom they had built trusting relationships. Everyone told us staff were caring and patient. “People were supported to have
maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.” Holly Hunton, housing and care manager at Fry Court said: “I am delighted with this report. I am super proud of the team for achieving this – Fry Court is a new scheme and bearing in mind we have been operating during a pandemic, the team have done an amazing job.” The CQC report also praised employees, commenting on how colleagues worked flexibly and were supported to respond to changes in people’s needs when required. The report highlighted how residents are supported and treated with dignity and respect; and involved as partners in their care. Residents received care and support from a consistent staff team which helped people to remain independent. Throughout the pandemic, employees had access to personal protective equipment, such as disposable masks, gloves and aprons.
Care team creates ’this is us’ display Care home takes the nature trail STAFF and residents at Castleford Lodge in Castleford, West Yorkshire, were on high alert as they joined in the fun of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2022. Everyone at the nursing home was super enthusiastic to participate in the event, and staff helped residents spot all the different varieties of feathery visitors to the garden and log their information to send back to the RSPB. Home manager Christina Rachita said: “The bird watching activities certainly raised everyone’s spirits
and gave us all something positive to focus on. “We talked about the birds that came into the garden, where they came from and some of our residents remembered their childhood days when they played in their own gardens. They all loved being outside in the fresh air and around nature.” The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch is an annual event that relies on wildlife enthusiasts to help spot, record and report the number of garden birds that land in gardens or local green spaces across the UK.
THE team at Ashwood care home in Ware has created a board featuring each staff member’s photo along with a short backstory. The board is a reflection of the home and its values, and how they are all family, with close relationships and connections. The display links well with Runwood Homes’ dignity theme of the month; ‘We are all Family’, which aims to explore the importance of family, our family history, and recognises how everyone who works in the home becomes like family. The goal is to find additional ways that those working in the home can strengthen relationships and boost feelings of comfort and belonging. The board is a way for residents to get to know a little more about the people that care for them, and to know that they are all family, with meaningful connections. Home manager Lisa Meeks said:
“We created the board as a way to show off the impressive wide range of experience that our Ashwood team holds, why they decided to have a career in care and to really reflect the love that they have working here. “The talented team have achieved so much, in both their personal and professional lives, and I really wanted to showcase that to everyone that visits the home. The display is also a great conversation starter amongst staff, residents and relatives. I have found out so much more about our team here, things that you may not usually ask or get the chance to talk about, so it’s great to create something that emphasises the unique lives and experiences of each individual team member.” Several members of staff have worked at the home for years, and some have even had their own loved ones stay at the home too.
CARINGWEEKLY
Care operator has its say on ‘Made with Care’ campaign A NATIONAL provider has given its take on a domestic campaign aimed at encouraging more people into a career in care. National Care Group, which looks after the needs of vulnerable adults in the UK, stated that a government focus on skills was ‘undoubtedly a good move’, but that ‘more work needs to be done’ to address low pay and diversification in the industry. The comments come after ‘Made with Care’, a nationwide ad campaign, was recently backed by a number of famous faces including model Christine McGuinness and Paralympian Ade Adepitan. Running until March, the campaign aims to help fulfil the 105,000 vacancies that remain vacant in the social care sector, exacerbating an already stretched healthcare industry. Mike Ranson, commercial director at National Care Group said: “This is all about giving someone that comes into the sector, and those already in it, value. “A care worker puts in an incredible effort, sometimes switching from a variety of mindsets and roles, from caregiver to psychologist or financial planner to cook, and so much more. “It’s hard work so I applaud any focus that is put into identifying skills and recognising value in the social
Mike Ranson, commercial director at National Care Group. care sector. “But what I, and many others in my position, would really like to see is the core issues of pay and the type of people coming into the sector being addressed. “For many, the big question is ‘from support worker to what – where do I go?’ they can’t see past the day-today caregiving and the progression that may lay ahead. It’s a mentally and physically demanding job and, of course, if there’s a pay imbalance
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against other public sector roles, then undoubtedly there’s going to be difficulties attracting a loyal, quality workforce. “Then you have to also consider the impact of Brexit and diversification in the sector. Having colleagues from a variety of backgrounds, cultures and experiences really enriches those we support and their lives. So, you have to question if we’ve lost something unique, which we had previously when the UK was in the EU.” As a 30-year veteran in the health and social sector, Mike serves as the ideal example of the type of messaging the government is aiming to portray in ‘Made with Care’. Having entered the industry as a care assistant in a private residential home, he now operates as commercial director of National Care Group, which helps change the lives of vulnerable adults across the UK. For Mike, focus needs to be on retention of skilled individuals in the industry, as well as an expansion of the messaging, for ‘Made with Care’ to be a success. He said: “When I came into the industry, it was vastly populated by women, mainly stemming from a perception that the work was largely domestic. However, there are more men in the sector now, it’s a healthy
balance and the work is so varied. “From board level to support worker, we are all dependent on each other. That’s what this campaign needs to recognise – the value of people working in this sector. “If you have an appetite for life and you are motivated, you can not only do really well career-wise, but you can change lives – you can have massive impact on an individual’s wellbeing and help them achieve what they previously thought was not possible. “I can’t claim to have seen every ad, but there certainly needs to be an expansion of the messaging – all ages and backgrounds can make a difference and that’s what we need to see.” In discussing the proposed £500m to support the training and development for carers over the next three years, Mike added that the sector is yet to see fully ‘how the money will filter through’ but that ‘expectations were as high as they ever were’, with an ever-increasing skills gap in the industry. He concluded: “If this government can deliver a level of respect to what those in the sector do, then that is half the battle won. “The rest will be on delivering on pay promises that has long gestated within this industry.”
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CARINGWEEKLY
Residents celebrated with ‘digni-tree’ this Dignity Action Day
Jennifer Varney receives her prize, a retro coffee maker, from deputy manager Ewa Sojka
Staff share the love in their local community STAFF at Speedwell Court in Southampton have been showing they care for their community by giving out gifts to local residents. Aside from caring for its 80 residents, the staff team at the dementia-friendly home, which is managed by national charity The Abbeyfield Society, have been encouraged to spread some love around their neighbourhood too by creating a personalised gift for another older person living nearby. The competition between the staff was spearheaded by Jane Anderson, part of Speedwell Court’s recruitment team, who challenged her colleagues to come up with the most original gift idea for a neighbour, someone they have met on their journey to work, or someone they know through a friend or relative. She said: “We were thinking about the community and how, following a
couple of hard and potentially lonely years, we could help bring some joy to someone’s day. “We wanted to do something that embraced our values as an organisation but also involved all of our staff team, and show that we are not just a care home, but a home that cares.” Jennifer Varney was named the winner after a vote from the staff team. She often sees a neighbour with his dog ‘Marmite’, who has dementia, when walking to work. To maintain social distancing, Jennifer left her gift, a ball for Marmite, and a note for his owner on the doorstep. The team commented that it was important to acknowledge the important role of animals in providing support to older people, and that mental health impairments can affect them as well.
STAFF at an Oxfordshire residential care home have gone out of their way to make residents feel valued and respected this Dignity Action Day. Churchfields in Cassington has created a ‘digni-tree’ to celebrate its residents and display their wishes. The staff at the dementia-friendly care home will now work hard to grant as many wishes as possible for their residents. Wishes amongst the residents include having fish and chips, watching a live ballet,and attending a family wedding. Care home owner Jane Roberts said: “Although we celebrate Dignity Action Day yearly, and it is an event that is very important to us, it’s essential that focusing on dignity isn’t concentrated to one day a year, but rather adopted as a way of life within our homes. “We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding care, and we do this by recruiting a care team whose values are centered around the safety, comfort and happiness of our residents, and this Dignity Action Day demonstrated just that.” In 2018 the staff at Churchfields made a promise to keep to the ‘10 dignity dos’ as set out by Dignity Action Day. Jane added: “It’s our duty to ensure that our residents’ needs are being met, whether that’s helping someone visit the beach or ensuring someone’s right to privacy is maintained. “On Dignity Action Day 2022 we were proud to say that we are still upholding all 10 of those dos, and we will continue to do so. “Life at Churchfields is a home
away from home for our residents, delivering outstanding care. “Care is an incredible industry to work in, and it’s important to all of us that we make life great for our elderly friends and residents to ensure that they are well looked after and confident that they are going to have a dignified life in their later years.” #DAD2022 aimed to change the culture of care services through improving the quality of care within the healthcare services across the country including the NHS, community services and residential care homes.
Veteran John recalls King George VI’s final journey on 70th anniversary of his death A FORMER Grenadier Guard has recalled the role he played in the funeral of His Majesty King George VI, ahead of the 70th anniversary of the monarch’s funeral. John Walmsley was a Sergeant in the King’s Company stationed at Victoria Barracks in Windsor, and in charge of escort detachment, when word came through that the King had died at his estate in Sandringham, on February 6 1952. The 95-year-old is now a resident at Royal Star & Garter’s High Wycombe Home. Aged 25, he accompanied the King’s coffin from a train station at Windsor, to the castle, and into St George’s Chapel, on the day of the funeral on February 15 1952. John said: “In those days there were two stations in Windsor, and the train carrying the King came into the top station, near the castle.
John Walmsley “As soon as it arrived I was there as part of an escort which also included the Navy. We escorted the coffin, walking on either side of the gun carriage, all the way from the
station into Windsor Castle itself and towards St George’s Chapel, ready for its burial. I had 15 men on one side, 15 on the other and that was my little detachment.” But there were then tense moments when the coffin arrived at the chapel. “The steps to St George’s Chapel are very steep, and the coffin was lead lined, so the lads who were carrying it had to practice in advance with weights inside it, to make sure they were prepared,” he added. “The coffin was walked up the chapel steps by the four men on either side. These men were strong and strapping, but the coffin was very heavy, and as they walked up the steep steps, it sloped a lot, and the boys were struggling with it. “So the Warrant Officer behind it had to push the back of the coffin, by just easing it forward, up with the boys. We also had to adjust our
march to the shuffle of the men who were carrying it. When the coffin went into the Chapel that was the end of the responsibility for us.” Remembering the day, John added: “It’s a strange feeling, especially with the public all around you, and you’re aware that you’re taking part in a moment of history. But when you’re serving, you’re on duty, and it’s all planned and timed.” John joined the Grenadier Guards in 1944 and served until 1967, rising to the rank of Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant. He served in post-war Germany, Palestine and Malaya. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who is Royal Star & Garter’s Patron, succeeded to the throne following her father’s death. John also took part in her Coronation ceremony on June 2 1953.
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CARINGWEEKLY
Brook House in Wooburn Green.
Highly regarded nursing home has new owners DC CARE has completed the sale of Brook House, a highly-regarded nursing home registered for a maximum of 35 residents, on behalf of Ferida Akhtar. The home is a combination of conversion and purpose-built extension located in the affluent Buckinghamshire village of Wooburn Green, near High Wycombe. The décor is light and airy, with tastefully presented sitting areas, conservatory and dining room. To the rear there is a garden for residents to enjoy. DC Care was appointed to market the home, having previously sold Chilterns Manor in 2016 for Ferida. The business attracted significant interest from existing operators in the region. The sale of Brook House was handled by southern region director Andy Sandel and senior sales negotiator Michelle Natkus. Ferida said: “DC Care and the team have been fantastic in keeping us updated and supporting us throughout the sale process. “Always available to support and advise us. Michelle worked tirelessly
to ensure successful completion. I would have no hesitation in recommending DC Care, I cannot thank them enough.” The home was acquired by Curaa Group, who also acquired Broome End through DC Care in 2019. Andy added: “Michelle and I would like to send our heartfelt congratulations to Ferida on the sale of Brook House and wish her all the best in her future endeavours in the care sector. “We were pleased to find a suitable purchaser in the form of Curaa Group and we look forward to working with them again in the future, when they are ready to make their next acquisition.” Curaa is a family-run, community driven care provider with awardwinning homes and a compassionate team that provides person centred care. Having launched in 2019, Curaa has grown quickly to acquire and manage three homes across the South and South West of England. They plan to continue their expansion across the region over the coming months.
Loveday launches homecare service LOVEDAY and Co has announced the launch of its latest innovative care service Loveday at Home. This progressive homecare concept has been carefully curated to deliver the same level of care, experiences and lifestyle services as expected within a Loveday Residence to people in their own homes. Loveday at Home can be as flexible as required from just a few hours a week, through to live-in or round-theclock care. The team is passionate about helping people live life on their own terms, as independently as they wish to be. Loveday at Home also provides support to family members, some of whom may be struggling to balance the care requirements with other aspects of living. Gabriela Zackova, managing director of Loveday at Home and director of dementia and wellbeing for Loveday and Co, said: “We are so proud to be able to offer the same highly soughtafter services and activities available at Loveday residences to people in
their homes. “Born from demand from the community and to accommodate our members who were not able to access our day club due to Covid restrictions, Loveday at Home enables people to continue living in the familiar environment of their home, whilst receiving care and enjoying all the activities Loveday has to offer. “From having hot, nutritious meals served through to enjoying luxurious treatments, accessing engaging workshops and receiving personalised, consistent care, Loveday at Home offers services designed to enrich the lives of all the people we have the privilege of caring for.” Modelled on the CQC outstanding rated care from Chelsea Court Place, Loveday’s flagship home, Loveday at Home offers an extensive menu of advice, assessments, therapies, activities, lifestyle concierge and property services to improve and enhance the lives of more people in the community.
Residents of Watling Court in Gravesend proved Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be all about romance as they got together for a decadent sweet treat. The theme was ‘pal-entine’s’ at the extra care housing scheme as the residents got together to celebrate all things love with a special afternoon tea. Staff put on a spread of cakes, chocolates, strawberries and more, and the tables were adorned with red hearts and Love Hearts sweets for the occasion. The residents tucked into the tasty treats on offer and a few cups of tea as they spent the afternoon nattering with one another about their loved ones and relationships over the years.
Love was the last thing on 89-year-old Beryl Harman’s mind when she moved into a care home, but she found it when Peter Ambler moved in a few months later. Former sequence dancer Beryl moved into Edward Moore House back in May and, whilst she wasn’t looking for love, it seems to have found her in the form of Royal Navy veteran Peter. 90-year-old Peter moved into the home in August and the pair, who are both widowed, felt an instant connection and struck up a friendship. Fast forward a few months and they are very much a happy couple. Residents at Windmill House in Wymondham spread the love this Valentine’s Day, leaving messages with chocolate favours around the town. The home, part of the Runwood Homes Group, love to connect with their community, so the team thought what better way to show their love than expressing their appreciation on Valentine’s Day. The residents began by writing their heartfelt messages, then wrapped up the chocolate, complete with ribbon and all. The treats were hidden at various places of interest within the town and everyone at the home is very excited to see who finds their gift. The team is encouraging the lucky recipients to send in a photograph and a message to let them know they have been found.
Love and romance were the order of Valentine’s Day for a 65-year-married couple at Astune Rise care home in Eston, near Middlesbrough. Resident Evelyn Robinson, 84, and husband Colin, 90, who will celebrate 66 years of wedded bliss in March, were surprised with a Valentine’s Day afternoon tea at the care home. They were serenaded by a local singer who performed ‘their song’ Till which was originally sung by Shirley Bassey, and a private lounge was decorated with balloons and heart decorations made with love by children from the local Whale Hill primary school. Colin visits Evelyn every day and their devotion to each other prompted staff to make Valentine’s Day extra special, particularly given all the restrictions they have been living under over the last two years.
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