92-Year-Old Widower Learns to Sing Again
Thomas Timson was one of the first residents to arrive at the luxury Abbotswood Court care home when the purpose-built facility opened in Romsey in 2015. He made the decision to move following the passing of his beloved wife after 65 years of marriage. Having shared many cherished years together, her absence had a huge impact on Tom’s life and his love for singing became a neglected pastime. Even though his son lives nearby, living alone without someone to share his music with, was too big an adjustment. The pair married in 1953 and were both proud to share their anniversary year with the Queen’s Coronation. A devoted husband, Tom nursed and tended to his wife for over two years before her passing. During this time Tom lost many opportunities to engage in his favourite passion, singing. A Hampshire man through and through, Tom was born in Compton, a small town just south of Winchester. He worked on the local railways as a Signalman for over 40 years. Since arriving at Abbotswood Court, Tom has had the opportunity to connect with the care home’s community and once again indulge in his love of music. Most weeks he can be heard performing in the communal areas, with other residents and to the compassionate team of carers. Finding a willing audience, Abbotswood Court encourages residents to retain and rediscover their hobbies. They understand that musical activity can improve residents’ wellbeing, happiness and quality of life, including those with various stages of dementia and other health issues. In turn, it also helps family members to feel more positive, knowing that their loved ones are maintaining their interests. At 92 years old, Tom finds singing incredibly therapeutic. Tom’s personality and love for music has made him one of the standout individuals residing in the home. He has now entered the care home industry’s version of the X-Factor, ‘Care Home Idol’. Thomas Timson, said: “In my early days at Abbotswood Court there was more staff than residents, however as the rooms have filled I’ve found that I never feel lonely. There are now so many wonderful people living here, and I always have someone to talk to. The food is good, there is regular entertainment and I cannot fault the attentive, friendly carers. It’s the perfect place for my son, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren to come visit me.’’ Tom, continues: “I’ve always enjoyed singing and it’s great to be a part of a community where I can practice, sing with others and joining with regular music events. I used to do all these things before my wife was taken ill and she would be so happy to know that I have rediscovered my love for singing at Abbotswood.’’ Tom’s room is located on the ground floor right next to one of the three airy communal spaces situated within Abbotswood Court. Here all residents can participate in group activities or walk out to the glass-fronted garden room, which opens on to an outdoor patio and well-kept garden. Outside and using a stick to get around, Tom alongside other green-fingered residents, can also pursue their passion for horticulture. Gemma Ridout-Bowden, General Manager of Abbotswood, said: “We are all so pleased to see Tom find such fulfilment from being able to sing once again and we love to listen! We’ve found that singing helps to create a positive environment within our home, not just for our residents but also for our staff. We continue to support activity regular music sessions, events and sing-alongs. In addition, we often welcome friends and family to come along to share in these experiences.” To find out more about Abbotswood Court, visit: www.cinnamoncc.com/care-homes/abbotswood-court.
Theraposture appoints highly experienced specialist
Theraposture, a respected leader in adjustable beds, chairs and care cots, has appointed Craig Ward as its new Trusted Assessor for Northern England, North Wales and Scotland. Before joining Theraposture, Craig was a key representative at Leckey for 21 years with multiple responsibilities including client assessment, product life-time support and corporate education. Craig first developed a passion for assisting children and adults with disabilities whilst completing his Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award. He gained memorable experiences volunteering within the long term care sector and at special schools. Craig’s time at the John Jamieson School in Leeds, one of the largest inclusive learning centres in the UK, inspired him to seek a career in the mobility and healthcare market. Now with vast knowledge particularly in paediatrics and postural support, Craig joins Theraposture to strengthen its specialist services and enhance value to customers. Craig explains: “I decided to join Theraposture as the business has an outstanding reputation for quality products and services. Before submitting my application, I spent time talking to people in the industry about the company including visits to Disabled Living Centres. Every professional I spoke to offered a glowing account of its ethical service provision, especially its client-centred approach. This reaffirmed my personal opinion and led to my application. Since joining I have already set myself personal objectives to expand my knowledge of conditions, especially Parkinson’s, so I can deliver a higher level of understanding and compassion.” Craig continues: “In terms of professional relationships, I have spent most of my career working closely with NHS Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists so understand the challenges they face in terms of time and budget. My Theraposture region is where I have operated over the last 20 years so can fully appreciate both local and national issues. I believe that by purchasing quality, durable and adaptable / modular equipment, Statutory Services can make the best use of limited funding. Theraposture talk about being the considered choice as their products not only last a long time, but many are modular meaning that they can be adapted to track changing needs. Making the “considered choice” will be one of my key messages in the North and Scotland.” Liam Braddell, Theraposture Sales Director adds: “We are delighted such a talented and knowledgeable individual as Craig has joined Theraposture. His approach and beliefs perfectly resonate with our values – 100% focused on maximising positive outcomes through a clear understanding of client needs.” Outside of his busy working week Craig lives near Selby in North Yorkshire and is married with two children. He is a retried rugby league player who now enjoys time supporting his children as they develop in football and show jumping. Find out more
CQC review – how local health and social care work together
The CQC has published its findings following a review of health and social care services in Staffordshire. The report is one of 23 targeted local system reviews looking specifically at how older people move through the health and social care system, with a focus on how services work together. The reviews look at how hospitals, community health services, GP practices, care homes and home care agencies work together to provide seamless care for people aged 65 and over living in a local area. During the review CQC sought feedback from a range of people involved in shaping and leading the system, those responsible for directly delivering care, as well as people who use services, their families and carers. Professor Steve Field, Chief Inspector of Primary Medical Services and Integrated Care, said: “Our review of health and social care services in the county found that older people had varied experiences of health and social care services. There were variations in what was available to them depending on where they lived, which meant that people’s experiences of care and the support they received were inconsistent. “While there was a shared vision from leadership in the county’s Sustainability and Transformation Partnership (STP), this did not transfer to those at an operational level. This was due to a number of significant recent changes within the system, which meant more time was needed to ensure people received high quality services wherever they went in Staffordshire. “Our review found many examples of good practice but also highlighted a number of areas where improvements are needed to ensure those responsible for providing health and social care services work better together. Some of these areas had already been recognised by the system’s leaders and plans were already being developed, or were in place, to ensure those improvements took place. “We have presented our findings to the health and social care system leaders in Staffordshire so that they can prioritise and continue to improve and work together in bringing joined up care to people living in the county.” Overall CQC reviewers found: Older people living in Staffordshire had varied experiences of health and social care services. There were local variations in what was available to people and consequently experiences of care and support were inconsistent. There were instances of people attending A&E because they couldn’t get GP appointments and A&E attendance for people over 65 living in care homes (January to March 2018) were higher than both national and comparator areas. A&E experiences were much improved at Royal Stoke Hospital. Person centered services for people with Dementia were very positively received. Although there had been recent improvements, people were still more likely to be delayed coming out from hospital. There were examples of people who experienced avoidable harm due to delays in their discharge from hospital. People still had a limited choice in respect of care homes rated good. There were good relationships between senior leaders in the Staffordshire and Stoke Sustainability and Transformation Partnership (STP) and there was good political support from the County Council for the STP. This review makes a number of suggestions of areas where the local system should focus on to secure improvement including: Though there was a clear vision and strong leadership at a senior level services delivered remained fragmented and dependent on the area of Staffordshire people lived in. A whole county joint commissioning strategy needs to be further developed so there is consistency of provision throughout Staffordshire. The Health and Wellbeing Strategy for 2018- 23 should be completely inclusive and refer to how all people, including those of different faiths, beliefs, gender, sexuality, or with physical and/or learning disabilities, will be included in the development of services. A whole county dementia strategy needs to be developed to ensure the needs of people with dementia are consistently supported across Staffordshire The system needs to develop a strategy to ensure services are developed with input from the people who will use them. Nationally validated models of GP support for care homes need to be rolled out more quickly to ensure they are ready for winter. People living in Staffordshire must have equal access to services; such as the intravenous antibiotics administered in their own home and falls prevention services. A system-wide approach is needed to find better solutions to manage patient discharge; such as the virtual ward, meaning people have a full range of services available to them by clinical professionals form home. eLearning from serious incidents and complaints should be shared across the system. The full report will be available on our website on Friday 14 December 2018 here: cqc.org.uk/localsystemreviews.
Sunrise Eastbourne ‘Outstanding’ Care Provider
Sunrise of Eastbourne has received a rating of ‘Outstanding’ from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care services in England – a rating which only around 1% of care homes receive. The rating was awarded following a comprehensive inspection in July 2018 and makes Sunrise of Eastbourne one of the country’s top care homes. The community, which provides high-quality, personalised nursing, dementia care and assisted living to up to 107 people, was praised by inspectors for ensuring its residents receive “exceptionally effective care, based on best practice by staff with an in-depth knowledge of their care and treatment needs.” The report also highlighted the culture of person-centred care at the community, with people receiving “high standards of kind and compassionate care.” After speaking to residents and their relatives, inspectors were told that team members “were extremely caring, kind, attentive and dedicated in their approach, which was evident throughout the inspection.” One person said: “I can’t think of a word to explain it, just wonderful. You can approach anybody. Everybody’s helpful. So supportive, kind, quick,” whilst a relative said that the service was, “loving, kind, happy, safe, calm and personalised, giving dignity to everyone.” In a further achievement, the community received ‘Outstanding’ ratings in four out of the five areas inspected: effective service, caring service, responsive service and well-led service. It also received a rating of ‘Good’ for the provision of safe care. When it came to the responsiveness of care, the report highlighted that people “received a responsive service where staff went above and beyond to ensure people’s needs, wishes and aspirations were at the forefront of everything they did” and that people “were supported to live as full a life as possible.” This included outreach initiatives such as a gardening club, a Golden Oldies Club for watching vintage films and the encouragement of exercise and physical wellbeing. With an “exceptionally strong management team and proactive provider who made people at the centre of the work they did,” the community was also praised for its effective leadership team and dedicated staff members. Whilst their work was commended, the report also noted that team members have a “drive to enrich the lives of people through the continuous improvement of staff and care delivery” – meaning that Sunrise of Eastbourne will only continue to develop. Fiona White, Registered Manager at Sunrise of Eastbourne, said: “I am incredibly proud of the entire care team here at Sunrise of Eastbourne and this rating is a demonstration of the pride and commitment they apply to the care they provide every single day. “I know that everybody enjoys and values the work they do with our residents and their families and we look forward to what lies in store for us as we continue to go from strength to strength.” Joanne Balmer, Senior Director of Care and Quality for Sunrise Senior Living UK, said: “We are delighted to see Sunrise of Eastbourne receive such wonderful recognition for the hard work they do to ensure every individual receives the kind of care that puts them and their quality of life first. “We know that the community will maintain its high standards as it goes forward and we are ready to continue providing support that will ensure everybody receives the dedicated and personalised care they deserve.” To see the full CQC report, please visit: https://www.cqc.org.uk/location/1-2745629662?referer=widget3.
Primaflow F&P raises £30,000 for Alzheimer’s Society
A programme of fundraising activities led by staff at plumbing, heating and bathrooms wholesaler Primaflow F&P has resulted in cumulative donations of £30,000 to the company’s current charity partner, Alzheimer’s Society. Spanning the past three years, the fundraising drive encompassed a range of physical activities including marathons, walks, mountain treks and cycle rides – with many of the initiatives seeing colleagues join up to tackle the challenges in teams. Additional funds were raised via a staff shop and through the company’s website, www.primaflowfandp.co.uk. Explaining that more than 50 staff members joined together to participate in the various activities, managing director Jed Kenrick says: “Staff have taken themselves out of their comfort zones and braved new challenges, in a concerted effort to raise funds and awareness for this important cause. Alzheimer’s Society works tirelessly to provide the best support – for people living with dementia and carers alike. We hope our support will go some way to helping further the charity’s valuable research.” Speaking on receipt of the final cheque, Joe Swan from Alzheimer’s Society explained why support for the charity is so critical: “Dementia is a widespread issue, affecting more than 850,000 people in the UK – with this figure expected to rise to 1 million by 2025. With no cure currently available for Alzheimer’s disease or any other type of dementia, we are committed to investing in research designed to improve care – and ultimately find a cure. The £30,000 raised by Primaflow F&P will go a long way to helping us do this. Thanks to everyone for their hard work fundraising.” Primaflow F&P has previously supported charities including Macmillan Cancer Support and Whizz-Kidz. The company’s charity partner for 2019 and 2020 will be Make-A-Wish UK.
Hundreds raised for residents at care home Christmas fayre
A CARE home Christmas fayre has raised hundreds of pounds for residents. Sycamore Hall Care Home’s annual festive celebration was attended by dignitaries from Ripon City Council alongside staff, residents and their family members. Mayor Cllr Pauline McHardy, her consort Cllr Eamon Parkin and Deputy Mayor Cllr Charlie Powell were among the guests. Craft stalls selling Christmas gifts, handmade soaps, knitted goods and jigsaws, among other items, helped raised £639.47 for the home’s residents’ fund. There was also a cake stall and tombola with prizes donated by staff, relatives and friends. Raffle prizes were donated by many local businesses and included tickets to Ripon Races, Sunday lunch for two at The Lamb Inn in Rainton, vouchers for How Stean Gorge, as well as The Spa Hotel, The Black A Moor Inn, and Artichoke, all in Ripon, and goods from Boots and Morrisons. Sweetie cones and hot chocolate reindeer cones, made by the residents, sold well. A guess the weight of the Christmas cake competition and guess the name of the teddy bear also proved popular. Chrissie Medway Steele, home manager at Sycamore Hall Care Home, on Kearsley Road, said: “There was a fabulous turn out and a special visit from the Mayor of Ripon. “The residents had a wonderful day and we raised a fantastic amount for the residents’ fund, which will contribute towards activities and days out in the new year. “Thank you to everyone who attended, and we hope to see you here again next year.” www.hillcare.net
Singing Brings Joy To Those Living With Dementia
In December 2018, I had the honour of bringing some festive cheer to a group of people living with dementia, and also their carers. I began volunteering for Alzheimer’s Society back in May 2018. I didn’t really know what to expect but I had a very open mind, so I was accepting of anything that I would have to face. Ever since I began volunteering, I have been so thankful for the happiness and joy that it has brought into my life. Unfortunately I am unable to volunteer currently due to work commitments, but I really hope to be back in the near future. Dementia affects thousands of people in the UK. I wanted to be a part of the charity that does amazing things for such a heart-breaking condition. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of making someone smile. For whatever reason, whether you make a joke and everyone finds it amusing, or whether you do a good deed for someone and make them happy. There is nothing like that heart-warming feeling. This is why I looked forward to travelling every other week to see a group of wonderful people who were all there for the same reason. To have a good time. Imagine what people living with dementia, and also their carers, go through every single day. I imagine it feels very comforting to spend time around other people living with similar experiences. I volunteered for a group called ‘Singing for the brain’.Tara Edwards, Area Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Lancashire and Cumbria said: “Singing for the Brain is a programme developed by Alzheimer’s Society for people with memory problems. The Singing for the Brain programme promotes communication through singing which can help with articulation, concentration, focus and motivation. Specially trained facilitators deliver a varied programme of vocal, rhythmic and gentle physical exercise and dance, along with songs from different eras and styles. “Even when many memories are hard to retrieve, music can sometimes still be recalled – if only for a short while. The sessions help people with dementia communicate improving their mood and leaving them feeling good about themselves.’ “ There are 16280 living in Lancashire but with the right support people can live well with the condition for a number of years.“ Soon after I began volunteering, I attended a class to become a ‘dementia friend’. I wanted to be able to recognise people who had dementia, and be able to help them in the best way possible. I received a badge that I could wear that would bring comfort to those living with dementia, to see that there was somebody who could understand them and help them when needed. I took it upon myself to do a little bit of research on the difficulties that are faced by someone with dementia, so that I was more aware of the condition itself and the challenges that are faced. I can’t even begin to imagine how frightening and lonely it must feel, to not understand what is happening, having your perception of the world distorted. This is why I care so much about Alzheimer’s Society. They are doing everything in their power to try and gain some control over this horrible disease. Here are some statistics from Alzheimer’s Society themselves: Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading dementia charity. We provide information and support, fund research, campaign to improve care and create lasting change for people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Dementia devastates lives. Alzheimer’s Society research shows that 850,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia. By 2021, 1 million people will be living with the condition. This will soar to two million by 2051. Dementia deaths are rising year on year and 225,000 will develop dementia this year – that’s one every three minutes. Dementia costs the UK economy over £26 billion per year. This is the equivalent of more than £30,000 per person with dementia. Alzheimer’s Society funds research into the cause, care, cure and prevention of all types of dementia and has committed to spend at least £150 million on research over the next decade. This includes a £50 million investment in theUK’s first dedicated Dementia Research Institute. Until the day we find a cure, Alzheimer’s Society will be here for anyone affected by dementia – wherever they are, whatever they’re going through. Everything we do is informed and inspired by them. Let’s take on dementia together. Volunteer. Donate. Campaign for change. Whatever you do, unite with us against dementia. Alzheimer’s Society relies voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0330 333 0804 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk. Alzheimer’s Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk Going back to sing for Christmas was the most wonderful opportunity, and I would do it every day if I could. Many of them were singing along to all the Christmas carols and their favourite musicals. It was so lovely to witness so much happiness. I’m really grateful that I’ve had the chance to be a part of an amazing charity. Even though I can’t go back at the moment, I will certainly be back to give my support and offer as much help as I can. I’ve been greatly inspired by the lives that these people have led, and even though they have been hit by the hardest challenges, they still have that spark that makes them who they are. I hope that this has made an impact on how important it is to offer support and help to charity. Whatever charity you support, you will always be appreciated. In my honest opinion, volunteering is the best thing you can do as a young person. It opens your eyes to the world around you and helps you to become more compassionate towards those in need. It has honestly changed my life for the better, and I would love to think that it could change someone else’s too.
Renray Healthcare – furniture supplier for over 50 years…
Renray Healthcare is one of the largest and leading suppliers of high quality furniture and products to the healthcare sector. With over 50 years’ experience of manufacturing and supplying to the industry, you can be rest assured you are in good hands. Our product offerings include bedroom, lounge, dining and communal furniture for care, nursing and residential establishments; beds, mattresses and PAC; patient and ward furniture for the NHS, and specially designed products for dementia and challenging environments. We also have an in house soft furnishings and flooring department who design, manufacture and install to your specification. Whether you require a full turnkey service for a new build installation or replacement of products for refurbishment contracts, we have the resources, knowledge and ability to fulfil your project, meeting your time schedule, budget and expectations. It is this complete ‘start to finish’ solution that really sets Renray apart and why we have been successful in supplying furniture to the healthcare sector since 1966. If you would like a free consultation with one of highly trained consultants contact us on; T. 01606 593 456 sales@renrayhealthcare.com www.renrayhealthcare.com Designed with you in mind…
Trust Jangro for all your Healthcare supplies
Jangro, the largest network of independent janitorial supply companies in the UK and Ireland, provides the Healthcare sector with a wide range of medical and healthcare supplies. Suitable for all healthcare related environments including hospitals, hospices, doctors’ surgeries, care homes, rehabilitation facilities and assisted living accommodation, the huge range covers: One of the key clinical priorities is to protect patients, visitors and staff within the workplace which is why Jangro also supply Infection Control products to help safeguard the health of patients. These medical supplies can be used in any healthcare workplace. Jangro also stock dining and kitchen hygiene products which are reliable for maintaining hygienic conditions for food preparation and service. Jangro even offers larger mobility equipment as well as medical beds for use in care. All of the products can be seen in their catalogue. This is available to anyone that is responsible for purchasing products and equipment in the healthcare sector. Visit: http://www.jangro.net/digital-catalogue Becoming a Jangro customer has a whole host of additional benefits, with free online solutions to help clients manage staff training, company budgets and all-important health and safety legislation requirements, as well as complementary downloads for essential wall charts. There are 45 Jangro distributors across the UK and Ireland, and the group’s buying power means that customers reap the benefits of fantastic prices and a great local service. Joanne Gilliard, CEO at Jangro, said: “We are very pleased with the progress of Jangro’s position within the Healthcare sector gaining recognition as a reliable supplier of quality products. “ “The current catalogue is free of charge and can be ordered by calling 01204 795 955, emailing enquiries@jangro.net or through any of our 45 distributors, who are conveniently located across the UK and Ireland. You can visit www.jangro.net to find your nearest distributor.”
