Caring UK Weekly February 21

Issue 175 21.02.24

The weekly online newsletter for the care sector

Veterans’ Day Care service is relaunched

A CHARITY has relaunched its veterans it helps. Lunch clubs popular Day Care service to and a telephone friendship support veterans. service were launched in 2023 Royal Star & Garter recently to help combat loneliness and resumed the sessions from its isolation in the Armed Forces High Wycombe and Solihull community.

Homes.

Day Care will support Day Care will also launch veterans and their partners from Royal Star & Garter in who live with disability or Surbiton for the first time later dementia but are not in need this year. of full-time residential care.

Sessions will run from the Furthermore, it will offer Residents at RMBI Care Co. Home Shannon Court have started having lunches with the management charity’s Solihull, Surbiton valuable respite to their carers, team. Both the business manager Steve Stace and the deputy home manager Ronnie Feszecsko have and High Wycombe Homes who are often older people been invited to attend weekly lunches across the several house groups of the Hindhead home. While several days a week, and will themselves. the management team are readily available on a daily basis, this gives them a one-to-one experience to include dedicated days for As well as tackling social listen to each resident and their needs. “This is a great example of our values and vision for Shannon people living with early-stage isolation which can be a Court,” said Leah Oliver, one of the activities coordinators. “It gives residents a moral lift, enables them dementia. significant issue amongst the to air any views or requests they may have in an informal atmosphere, and allows them to feel special Day Care was a popular and veteran population, it will and enjoy each other’s company.” well-attended service at the also promote wellbeing by Resident Peter Elliott is pictured with Ronnie Feszecsko.

Solihull and High Wycombe providing home-cooked food, Homes before it was paused by activities and structure to the the pandemic. week.

Lockdown also meant plans People who use the new Day for its launch at Surbiton were Care service will be kept busy, put on hold. joining permanent residents A FAMILY-run care home group has set sail sombreros, music from a Mariachi band Director of care and wellbeing in activities including quizzes, on a mini virtual world cruise, starting its and expertly prepared food from its Shirley Hall said: “Day Care outings, entertainment, art voyage in Mexico – which saw residents talented chefs. was extremely popular when it therapy, and movement to across its care communities celebrating Viv Stead, recreation and well-being ran before the pandemic, and music. the country’s native cuisine, music and manager at Nellsar, said: “We like to we know from feedback how Emphasis will be placed wider culture. involve relatives in our cruise series where important it is for the people on rekindling memories and Following its success over the past possible, as it encourages the exchange of that use it, as well as the respite creating connections, including few years, Nellsar Care Homes, which postcards and photos as we make our way benefit it brings their carers. making new friends over meals. operates 13 homes across Kent, Surrey and around the globe.”

“So we’re thrilled that day Day Care was initially Essex, is once again taking residents on a As part of the mini cruise, the virtual ship care has returned. It further launched at the Solihull Home memorable virtual trip across the world will dock at three countries, with the next illustrates our commitment to in 2017, and at High Wycombe – exploring a diverse range of countries two destinations being Egypt and Japan. increase the help and support in 2019. along the way.

Activities teams at each home have been we can provide to the Armed Guests and their relatives The operator is looking to offer residents tasked with bringing the vibrance of each Forces community.” were full of praise, saying it a break away from the UK and transport country to their care community – with This resumption is the led to increased confidence them to a series of desirable holiday decorations, costumes and a healthy dose latest move by the charity and opportunities to be more destinations such16:08 as Mexico – with of adventurous holiday spirit.

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CARINGWEEKLY

Inflation busting pay rise to Westminster’s care workers HOMECARE workers in central London are now paid £2,808 a year more thanks to investment by Westminster City Council.

In the first of its kind, this equates to an almost 10 per cent pay increase above the national level of inflation (four per cent).

Launched in December, the permanent pay rise is now being seen in the wages for the council’s estimated 450 contracted homecare workers who look after some of the most vulnerable residents in the city.

Homecare workers now will see the additional £1.50 (before tax) on top of the London Living Wage.

Councillor Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, deputy leader and cabinet member for adult social care, public health and voluntary sector, said: “I am so grateful of the tireless work the council’s homecare workers provide to our residents.”

“They worked throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, and they are now

working through the cost-of-living crisis so I’m incredibly pleased that we can finally thank them with this above inflation pay increase.

“I hope this will also make it easier to retain homecare workers locally as well as attract people to the sector, giving our residents greater stability in

their caring arrangements.”

The landmark investment, worth more than £1m each year, aims to tackle inequalities in the care workforce where a high proportion of staff are women from the global majority. By paying better, the hope is to reduce high levels of staff turnover and retain care workers who love working with residents, and who provide the standard of care that Westminster expects.

This pay boost announcement is in line with the council’s Fairer Westminster commitment to ensure better working conditions for care workers and provides higher quality, more dignified care.

It follows last year’s signing of the UNISON Ethical Care Charter.

This highlights the value that the council places on staff who deliver care and those who receive it and sets out the intention to better support both care workers and the people they look after.

Home embarks on a ‘world tour’ for residents THE Rowans in Macclesfield, part of Canterbury Care, is taking residents on a trip around the world.

The initiative, orchestrated by activities coordinator Leanne Senior, offers a unique opportunity for residents to experience the diverse cultures of countries they have dreamt of visiting or fondly remember from past holidays.

“Our residents have already enjoyed the tastes and traditions of Germany and Greece,” said Sandra Senior, home manager at The Rowans.

“We’re excited to continue our tour by visiting India, China, Thailand, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria, Romania, New York, Malaysia, among other

destinations.

“It’s a splendid way to honour the diverse backgrounds of both our residents and staff.”

April marks a special phase of this journey, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the staff who hail from various corners of the globe.

Residents will be indulging in the authentic cuisines of the countries and engaging in activities that highlight their unique cultures.

Leanne added: “Seeing our residents’ faces light up as they explore different cultures is truly rewarding. It’s about bringing the world to their doorstep, sparking memories and creating new ones.”

Operator lights the way for D-Day 80 CARE UK’s 155 homes will be commemorating D-Day this summer as part of D-Day 80.

One of the many acts of commemoration this year is the Light Lamp of Peace initiative, which the provider will be leading on for the sector.

The campaign will see different settings come together – from care homes to hospital trusts, and across the health and social care sector – to encourage people across the UK, including families at home, to light their own lamps in memoriam of those who gave their lives on the beaches of Normandy eight decades ago.

D-Day 80, of which this campaign is part of, is being led by Pageantmaster Bruno Peek CVO OBE OPR, who has led Royal and international celebrations for nearly 40 years.

D-Day 80 has partnered with The Normandy Memorial Trust, The Royal Naval Association, ABF The Soldiers Charity, RAF Benevolent Fund and the Merchant Navy Association.

At 9.15pm on June 6, to coincide with the lighting of the ceremonial beacons throughout the United

Kingdom, Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and in UK overseas territories, Care UK’s homes will light their lamps in tribute.

Andrew Knight, CEO of Care UK said: “Many residents living in care homes across the country will have lived through this poignant period, making their own sacrifices; whether

they had family members serving, or if they themselves served in the Armed Forces or as part of the Home Front.

We are dedicated to showing our continued support and admiration for those who served, as well as those who still serve today.

“Those who fought on the shores of the Normandy beaches

represented a ‘light of hope’ during a grievous period of war, therefore we encourage all health and social care communities throughout the UK, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man to join with us in the ceremonial lighting of the ‘Lamp Light of Peace’ at 9.15pm on June 6, in this significant tribute.”

Cavell Court in Norwich was the first home to take the delivery of its Lamp Light of Peace, which was delivered personally by Bruno.

In addition to being greeted by the team from Cavell Court, he was joined

by Jennie Rodgers, regional director for Suffolk, and a number of residents.

Cavell Court resident and RAF veteran Ken, aged 98, officially received the lamp from Bruno.

The lamp itself is a tribute to those who fought on the shores of Normandy and represented a ‘light of hope’ during the war.

Bruno also shared D-Day 80 medals with Ken and 90-year-old resident John, a Royal Navy veteran, before presenting a commemorative pin from the King’s Coronation to Betty, whose husband was an RAF pilot, for her to “pass down for generations to come.”

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CARINGWEEKLY

Manager Michael sets out his vision for new care home

Operator celebrates best of the best ...

CARERS at dementia specialist Belong scooped accolades at its annual Champion Awards, recognising exceptional performance within its teams who support older people to live an active and fulfilling later life.

Winners from across the organisation’s villages and their corresponding home care service, Belong at Home, collected their trophies to rousing applause from colleagues from across the North West and West Midlands at the Hallé St Peter’s venue in Manchester.

Chief executive Martin Rix said: “It’s been another year of hard work and dedication from our teams and so we’re pleased to give them the recognition they deserve.

“To all our finalists and winners: thank you and congratulations for making Belong the best place for our customers to live and for our colleagues to work.”

Winners: Newcomer of the Year – Erin Duffy, support worker, Belong Warrington; Leader of the Year – Dean Pepper, lead senior support worker,

Belong Crewe; Mentor of the Year – Caroline Clifton, admiral nurse; Team of the Year – Duke Household team, Belong Crewe; Compassion – Samantha Smith, community support worker, Belong at Home Warrington; End-of-Life – Cedar Household team, Belong Wigan; Made-MyDay – Jackie Green, lead hairdresser, Belong Macclesfield; Community Engagement – Experience Team, Belong Morris Feinmann; Innovation – Jessica Butler, Belong Crewe; Volunteer – Cavell Meakin, Belong Crewe; Central Services – Lisa Armstrong, recruitment business partner; Belinda Jones Dementia Champion – Jessica Moore, community support worker, Belong at Home Wigan.

Winners were determined by a panel of independent judges who interviewed finalists chosen from nominations from customers, relatives and colleagues. All were presented a handmade trophy, designed by Belong Newcastle-underLyme customer Beryl Cadman as part of a creative competition.

THE home commissioning manager of a new £13.5m facility that is set to open in the near future has set out his aim that it should be an integral part of the community it serves.

The state-of-the-art Bentley Grange in Biddenham will provide a luxurious living environment with 60 en-suite bedrooms across three floors, and facilities such as a cinema, wellness suite offering holistic therapies, cinema, salon, outdoor second floor terrace and bar. It also brings 75 new jobs to the area.

Michael Zinaka said that as well as offering the best possible environment and care for those moving into the home, the aim is that it will bring wider benefits and become a valued part of the community.

He added: “We are so grateful to have this beautiful purpose-built setting with incredible facilities, but what is most important for me is that this home becomes a true part of the Biddenham community.

“A thriving care home is one that is outward-looking, made up of individuals who are valued within and without, and the relationships we build and the role we play in this community are vital in achieving that.

“We want to empower those living with us to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives – to follow hobbies and interests, maintain and develop relationships and continue to feel part of and contribute to the life of the community they belong to, as well as the life of the home.”

Michael joined Maria Mallaband Care Group in December bringing with him a decade of care industry experience across roles including general manager, regional director and business development executive.

He has brought together a new team which has already been forging connections within the community, including sponsoring the dog event at the 2023 Biddenham Show.

Bentley Grange is also looking to

Michael Zinaka work with small businesses interested in making use of the facilities on offer to benefit the lives of those living there, for example hairdressers, beauticians, nail technicians and holistic therapists.

Michael said: “I’m passionate about how our home can be an extension of the community, so we will be prioritising local suppliers, recruiting locally, opening up facilities and partnering with small businesses in the area, planning community events and building relationships with schools, charities and groups.

“Happily, we have already enjoyed the warmest of welcomes, and I am excited to build on that foundation over the coming months and years.”

Bentley Grange will feature landscaped grounds, with both private and shared patios and quiet terraces, with planting to encourage bees, butterflies and other wildlife to visit.

Inside the multiple lounges, restaurants, communal areas and social spaces will include grandchildren’s spaces, designed to encourage multi-generational visits and keep family connections as strong as possible.

Donation pays for oven A THERAPEUTIC work community for adults with learning disabilities has put into immediate use a donation of more than £3,000 from two Winchester care homes.

Colten Care’s Abbotts Barton and St Catherines View joined forces in support of the Sutton Scotney-based Boaz Project after residents chose it as their main charity to help over the past year.

Activities included staging a familyfriendly ‘fete on the field’ on a green just yards from Abbotts Barton.

The day after receiving a cheque for £3,065.90 in respect of the homes’ fundraising, the Boaz Project was told it needed a replacement oven potentially costing thousands of pounds.

Abbotts Barton home manager

Dee Lovewell said: “We are proud to have raised such a fantastic total and provided direct help in this way for the Boaz Project.

“Fundraising is always an enjoyable experience for residents and staff and it helps residents continue to play a meaningful role in their local communities.”

The homes’ fundraising fete brought together dozens of people from Winchester to enjoy children’s games, stalls selling cakes, plants and handmade gift items, a coconut shy, a barbecue, a tombola and the chance to see inside a fire engine.

Other initiatives in aid of the Boaz Project across both homes included raffles, sales of homemade greeting cards, sponsored get-togethers and staff dressing-up days.

A Basildon resident celebrating her 101st birthday credited regular afternoon naps and a love of gardening for a long and happy life. Dorothy Violet Davis, who lives at Larchwood Care’s Cameron House care home, celebrated her birthday in style with her son Roger, the Deputy Mayor of Basildon, Councillor Yetunde Adeshile, other residents and her favourite entertainer Charlie Regan who serenaded her with his covers of 60s, 70s and 80s hits. Following the performance and the cutting of a 101 cake, Dorothy and the rest of the guests enjoyed a buffet of her favourite food. Born Dorothy Wilson in Walthamstow in 1923, the 101 year-old has lived through an incredibly transformative century. Her husband, John – whom she called Jack – and their son, Roger, have been the anchors of her life, and Dorothy’s eyes light up when she talks about her four grandchildren – Amber, Joe, Mia and Isla.

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CARINGWEEKLY

Social care can help with hospital crisis SOCIAL care providers are offering to meet with health trust chiefs to see if they can work together to ease serious pressures on hospitals in North Yorkshire.

The Independent Care Group says boosting access to social care services could help the situation.

York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has reported extreme pressures on Scarborough Hospital in particular.

Part of the problem is that some 20 to 25 per cent of beds at the hospital were being occupied by people who could be discharged.

ICG chief executive John Pattinson said: “A lack of social care packages available in the community will be playing its part in those delayed discharge figures and that needs to be addressed to help get the hospital back functioning as it should.

“We would welcome discussions with the health trust and would like to see a simplification of the system to enable hospital patients to move more quickly from hospital beds to care out in the community.

“Constructive dialogue could enable us to work towards creating a better model whereby there is a more rapid transfer from hospital to community care, freeing up hospital beds.”

Across the country, around 14,000 people can’t be discharged from hospital each week, largely due to a

Johnny Mercer introduces himself to Army veteran Michael

Mike Padgham lack of social care because that sector is going through a crisis.

ICG chair Mike Padgham added: “The ongoing funding crisis in social care in England is leading to a shortage, particularly of homecare and of some care beds.

“This is being reflected locally and needs to be addressed both with the local health trust and the Government. I am fearful that we are sleepwalking into the creation of social care deserts.

“It is therefore vital that during this period of intense pressure for both local hospitals and local care providers, we all work together to find practical, sustainable solutions.”

Southern Healthcare MD Geoffrey Cox and director of nursing and compliance Margot Whittaker present an award to Parkwood House home manager Lorna Smith.

Minister praises home and new veterans project THE Minister for Veterans’ Affairs has praised the Veteran Friendly Framework after seeing the impact of the new nationwide project during a visit to Royal Star & Garter in High Wycombe.

Rt Hon. Johnny Mercer MP said the VFF, which can benefit tens of thousands of vulnerable Armed Forces veterans in England, should be “turbo-charged and put into every care home in the country”, during the visit.

The VFF aims to tackle loneliness and isolation, and deliver improved health and wellbeing outcomes for over 25,000 veterans, plus their partners, living in care homes across the country.

It is a two-year collaboration between Armed Forces charities Royal Star & Garter, the Royal British Legion and the NHS Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance, with funding support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.

Johnny was greeted in High Wycombe by Royal Star & Garter’s chief executive Andy Cole, home manager Reggie Ballos and VFF project lead Kathryn Glass.

Andy said: ”We were delighted to welcome Veterans’ Minister Johnny Mercer to our Home, so he could see the outstanding care we provide to the Armed Forces community, and learn how the new Veteran Friendly Framework will support the care of veterans living in all care homes across the country.”

He was taken on a tour of the Home, meeting residents and viewing the in-house physiotherapy and activities rooms.

Johnny later had lunch with residents including Ken, who served in the Army during WWII, and RAF veteran John.

VFF launched in October last year.

To date, 17 care homes have attained VFF status, with more than 50 currently going through the process.

Care providers must meet eight standards to achieve VFF status.

These include provisions to identify the wellbeing needs of veterans and their partners by ensuring that Armed Forces status is included in care planning; addressing social isolation; and providing signposting to local statutory and charitable support services.

Nursing home provider celebrates staff loyalty SOUTHERN Healthcare, which has four nursing homes across Devon, invited 92 team members who had achieved five years or more of service to an evening of celebration in Dawlish to thank them for their commitment to the company.

Staff travelled from Parkwood House in Plymouth, The Seaton in East Devon, The Old Rectory in Exeter and Sefton Hall in Dawlish to join the party which included entertainment

by The Craig Milverton Quartet.

In appreciation of their attendance, Geoffrey Cox, managing director and Margot Whittaker, director of nursing and compliance at Southern Healthcare, presented each guest with a bag of goodies.

Those who achieved long service milestones during the year also received certificates as well as a gift voucher and a letter awarding them additional annual leave.

Margot was rewarded both for her service and her work in developing the Advanced Social Care Nursing Diploma in conjunction with the University of Bolton.

Also recognised for their contributions to care either locally, regionally or nationally were: Emma Seal, manager of The Seaton, Kerrie Haughey of Parkwood House, Lisa Burge, George Silimon and Penny Truswell of Sefton Hall in Dawlish, and Andy Cowling from The Old Rectory in Exeter.

A further accolade went to Parkwood House manager Lorna Smith.

Parkwood achieved a Platinum Award in the Eden Alternative care philosophy audit along with a Level One outcome from the Meaningful Care Matters ‘Butterfly’ audit, making it one of only a small number of homes in the country to achieve this high award.

Residents from Care South’s Alexandra House and Dorset House care homes in Poole came together for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie as they engaged in a spirited game of bowling. The event showcased the residents’ enthusiasm and sportsmanship and fostered a sense of community and shared joy. The bowling tournament featured both seasoned players and novices, with a few residents trying their hand at the sport for the first time. Nicola Bleach, activities lead at Alexandra House, said: “Witnessing the residents come together for a spirited game of bowling was truly heartwarming. It’s these moments of joy, laughter and friendly competition that make our community at Care South so special.”

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