Bluebird Care partners with the Care Workers Charity
Bluebird Care is delighted to be working with the Care Workers Charity, in a brand new partnership set to benefit Bluebird Care’s hardworking teams of employees across the country. The Care Workers Charity launched in 2013 as a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing a ‘rainy day fund’ for the UK’s more than 1.5 million care workers. Before them, there was no national charity set up to support care staff. Working to help current, former or retired care workers who may face financial limits, the charity aims to ensure that no care worker will ever face financial hardship alone. The organisation is proud to award hardship grants of up to £500 to support unexpected and unforeseen circumstances. This might include sudden unexpected illness or injury, loss of home or relationship break-downs. The Care Workers Charity also offers online information and advice on a range of health and wellbeing topics. Any ‘everyday hero,’ – anyone in any role employed within a registered provider such as Bluebird Care – is eligible, including care staff, cleaners, office staff, caterers and managers. The charity is backed by a strong board of trustees with some of the biggest names in the care sector. Bluebird Care understands that working in care comes with a range of challenges and wants to further reward its dedicated employees who have put Bluebird Care’s approach to person-centred services and care at the heart of everything they do. As part of this, Bluebird Care was recently delighted to join the Care Workers Charity Supporters Club when they made the organisation their charity of the year. Now, the new value-added benefits from this will be rolled-out across the Bluebird Care network nationwide. Bluebird Care employees will have direct access to these services and new benefits initiated by the partnership. The Care Workers Charity’s website will now have a dedicated Bluebird Care hub, from which Bluebird Care’s employees can access the financial and wellbeing services and advice. Thanks to the partnership, every employee will be able to apply for grants that would help support if unexpected circumstances or life events occur – for example illnesses, changes in living circumstances, relationship breakdowns, or family bereavements. If this all wasn’t enough, Bluebird Care employees can also become one of the organisation’s Champions, through which they will receive training and a membership to a salary stretching platform. Champions are the partnership’s network of volunteers, and the boots on the ground – and eyes and ears – of the Care Workers Charity. They will increase awareness of the charity through Bluebird Care and beyond and support more people in need whilst learning new skills and meeting new people. Bluebird Care UK is delighted to be a part of a new partnership with the Care Workers Charity and hopes that its care teams can benefit from the extra support that will be made available to them. As a country, we rely on care workers to be there for our most vulnerable – and Bluebird Care and the Care Workers Charity want to be there for them. www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/home
Zinged zimmers reduce falls at Derbyshire care home
ZIMMERS are getting zinged at a Derbyshire care home after a visit from charity Age UK – helping to reduce falls by up to 60%. Emma Richards, from Age UK Derby and Derbyshire, visited Longmoor Lodge Care Home, in Sandiacre, to give residents’ zimmer frames a revamp. The aim of the scheme, called Zinging my Zimmer, is to make walking aids personalised so they are more easily recognised by their owners. Paint, colourful wrapping, name plates, flowers, ribbons, bags and other accessories are all used to make each residents’ zimmer stand out. As well as adding a splash of colour to the frames, the activity has multiple benefits for residents, staff and visitors to the care home. Emma said: “Zinging my Zimmer is funded by Erewash Clinical Commissioning Group, as it helps reduce falls among those in need of a walking aid by up to 60%. “Residents can sometimes leave their walking aids behind because they all look the same and they don’t recognise it belongs to them. “By making the walking aids more person centred, they are more likely to know it’s theirs, pick it up and use it – therefore reducing the chance of a fall. “Decorating the zimmers has also helped engage residents, staff and family members in craft sessions. They also promote confidence, individuality and a more active lifestyle. “I’ve been contacting homes in Derbyshire to see if they fancied Zinging my Zimmer and it just took off. It’s such a rewarding thing to do.” Among those to benefit from the scheme at Longmoor Lodge Care Home, on Longmoor Lane, are husband and wife Geoff and Evie Curson. Home manager Samantha Ely said: “Geoff and Evie are so happy with theirs. “Geoff has limited mobility and we are currently encouraging him to do more. As soon as we gave him back his green jazzy frame, which he chose all the colours for, he instantly got up to give it a try. “Evie was so happy with the little bag on hers and said she can put her lipstick in it now. “Having been provided with materials from Age UK, the staff at Longmoor can continue zinging up zimmers for those residents who would like to take part.” Longmoor Lodge Care Home is part of the Hill Care Group. For further information visit www.hillcare.net.
Stretchy Boots for Swollen Feet
The Markle from Cosyfeet is the ultimate comfort boot disguised as a great-looking winter casual. It comes in a 6E width as standard and incorporates an elastane panel to take the pressure off bunions and swelling. Supple leathers, a textured collar and a distressed, hand-brushed sole contribute to a contemporary, premium look. Luxurious underfoot cushioning and padding in the tongue and collar provide exceptional comfort. The Markle’s lace fastening adjusts to fit variable swelling, providing excellent support. A seam-free toe guards against rubbing injuries and a lightweight, hard-wearing yet flexible sole makes for easy walking. This comfy, stretchy boot has a sanitised ‘airflow’ footbed which is removable to allow for bespoke orthotics if required. This Cosyfeet style has been shown to meet the rigorous standards of the Healthy Footwear Guide. The Healthy Footwear Guide is a collaboration between UK footwear brands and foot health professionals. It aims to highlight the importance of wearing healthy, comfortable footwear. The Markle comes in Caramel or Dark Teal and retails at £89.00,or £74.17 if patients qualify for VAT relief due to a chronic condition. It is available in sizes 4 to 9 including half sizes. For more information see www.cosyfeet.com/markle or call 01458 447275. VAT Relief If patients are disabled or have a long-term illness, they’ll no doubt know that they are eligible for VAT relief on certain products and services. Items such as adjustable beds, stair lifts and wheelchairs all qualify, as do building works such as installing ramps or widening doors. One of the products included in the list of eligible products is specialist footwear, which can be purchased free of VAT by qualifying individuals. Information on how patients can self-certify for VAT relief is provided on the Cosyfeet website and can also be obtained from Cosyfeet by phone. About Cosyfeet Specially designed to fit and flatter extra wide and swollen feet, Cosyfeet footwear is wider, deeper and roomier than the wide fitting footwear you’ll find on the high street. Cosyfeet are a small, caring company with 35 years’ experience of fitting swollen feet and legs. Over 11,000 health care professionals recommend Cosyfeet footwear to their patients. The company offers a No Quibble Money Back Guarantee on all products as well as free UK returns, so that customers can order with confidence.
Sheepskin-lined Bootee for Swollen Feet
The new Scandi-style Anna bootee from Cosyfeet provides supreme warmth and comfort for swollen feet. Made with a 100% pure wool upper and a genuine sheepskin lining, this luxurious slipper gently forms to the shape of the foot and is naturally breathable. Designed with hidden depth for a streamlined look, the Anna bootee has a cushioned footbed and a flexible rubber sole. It can be worn indoors or out and is diabetic-friendly due to its softness and its seam-free toe area, which protects sensitive toes from rubbing. The footbed is also removable for extra depth, or to accommodate bespoke orthotics if required. Pure wool provides the perfect ‘environment’ for vulnerable feet as it has a natural warmth, softness and elasticity. Wool is also durable, breathable and anti-microbial, so it prevents the build-up of moisture and naturally resists the growth of odour-causing bacteria. The Anna bootee comes in a 6E width fitting as standard and is available in Pebble Wool, in sizes 4 to 9. It has an adjustable, touch-fastening strap for a perfect fit and is hypoallergenic for sensitive skin. This Cosyfeet style has been shown to meet the rigorous standards of the Healthy Footwear Guide. The Healthy Footwear Guide is a collaboration between UK footwear brands and foot health professionals. It aims to highlight the importance of wearing healthy, comfortable footwear. The Anna retails at £105, or £87.50 if patients qualify for VAT relief due to a chronic medical condition. For more information visit www.cosyfeet.com/anna or call 01458 447275. VAT Relief If patients are disabled or have a long-term illness, they’ll no doubt know that they are eligible for VAT relief on certain products and services. Items such as adjustable beds, stair lifts and wheelchairs all qualify, as do building works such as installing ramps or widening doors. One of the products included in the list of eligible products is specialist footwear, which can be purchased free of VAT by qualifying individuals. Information on how patients can self-certify for VAT relief is provided on the Cosyfeet website and can also be obtained from Cosyfeet by phone. About Cosyfeet Specially designed to fit and flatter extra wide and swollen feet, Cosyfeet footwear is wider, deeper and roomier than the wide fitting footwear you’ll find on the high street. Cosyfeet are a small, caring company with 35 years’ experience of fitting swollen feet and legs. Over 11,000 health care professionals recommend Cosyfeet footwear to their patients. The company offers a No Quibble Money Back Guarantee on all products as well as free UK returns, so that customers can order with confidence.
New Healthcare Group Acquires Specialist Care Homes
The newly formed Cornerstone Healthcare Group Ltd has acquired family-run Hampshire care homes, South Africa Lodge and Kitnocks House from Dr Oliver Sargent and his family who have run them since 1998. The homes care for older people with complex neurological, physical and mental health needs associated with challenging behaviours. This 154 bed acquisition is the first in an ambitious five-year growth plan for the group, who have significant capital for future acquisitions in the specialist care market. The Board of Cornerstone Healthcare Group Ltd have extensive experience in the market. The group is chaired by Stephen Collier, Chair of NHS Professionals and former Group Chief Executive of BMI Healthcare. Chief Executive, Johann van Zyl, Chief Operating Officer, Dara NíGhadhra and Interim Finance Director, Geoff Hiskett were part of the management team behind the success of national specialist neurological care provider, PJ Care. Chief Executive Mr van Zyl said “This acquisition gives us the opportunity to offer a service to a large group of people who tend to be forgotten about. There are currently 15,000 people who need this type of specialist care and only 5,000 beds available in suitable care homes.” With this figure to grow by 3% year on year, Cornerstone Healthcare Group are focusing on expansion within this market through acquisition of homes that will suit this resident group. They are already talking to other owner managers of similar homes and are looking for opportunities for further acquisitions in this market. Mr van Zyl continued “With our experience of running homes for people with challenging behaviours, we are looking to increase the number of places available to this type of resident and ease the burden on dementia care homes who struggle to manage the needs of these individuals.” Demand is high, South Africa Lodge in Waterlooville and Kitnocks House in Curdridge are nearly always at capacity, however, running this type of service takes a lot of experience and the support of dedicated staff. With over 25 years’ experience in similar facilities, Ms NíGhadhra said “The reason we chose to buy these particular homes was the commitment and service delivered by the staff. This type of work isn’t easy, but the staff care deeply for our residents and this is evident in everything that they do. They are full of ideas on how to make life even more rewarding for our residents and we’re looking forward to working with them to make our service even better than it already is.” This acquisition was a management buy in and funding came from experienced health care investor, Ignite Growth LLP and Kvika Securities Ltd who are committed to investing to help the business grow strongly in the future. The deal involved many different parties including Tom Robinson, Cushman & Wakefield (site finder), Dennis Knockton, Metro Bank (prime lender), Justin Crowther, Alantra, Ian Morris, EMW Law LLP, BDO LLP and Trowers & Hamlins LLP Chair of Cornerstone Healthcare Group, Mr Collier concluded “This is an exciting new venture for our team and our ultimate focus will be on our residents, working with their families, our staff and referring agencies to ensure we continue to offer and build on the excellent service nurtured by Dr Sargent and his team.”
Free conversation cards for carers of people living with dementia
Since 2009, award-winning charity, Alive, has been providing meaningful activity sessions for older people in care settings, 80% of whom are living with dementia. Based on this experience, Alive has now developed a set of free conversation cards to support relatives, friends and carers, to build social connections and engage in meaningful conversations with people who are living with dementia.All too often the families and friends of people diagnosed with dementia can feel alone and worried, knowing that the relationship with their loved one is going to change. It can sometimes be hard to know what to say or do when spending social time with someone whose needs or situation have changed so significantly. For staff working with older people, being able to know a person’s life history and form a relationship with them are key to providing high quality care.Alive is the UK’s leading charity enriching the lives of older people and training their carers. Their vision is a world where older people in care live lives full of meaning, joy and opportunity. These new conversation cards help people to live well with dementia by supporting their sense of identity and social contact, as well as providing an enjoyable way to share special memories and experiences together. The free resource contains pages of illustrations and ideas that people can use as conversation prompts. Simple questions are themed around specific interests like gardening, school, travel and music; topics to which everyone can relate to. Designed by Alive’s specialist team, the conversation cards enable people living with dementia to recall and share memories more confidently.The cards were piloted with people living with dementia and their families, friends, carers and care groups, and feedback from the trial was overwhelmingly positive.Families reported that the questions “prompted humour, memory-searching, emotion but mostly pleasure and pride” (Janet, wife of Pete who is living with dementia). They allowed people to find out more about a person’s life and feel closer to them at a time when, so often, families feel like they are losing the person they knew.Care staff too said the cards allowed them to provide better person-centred care and activity, by forming closer relationships and an appreciation of each individual’s rich life. “They have helped me to find out more information which we have been able to record on CMS. All staff then have access to more information about these residents.” Sally Harper, Activities Coordinator, Waypoints Care.Alive’s Chief Executive, Simon Bernstein, says “Helping people with dementia to socialise with the people around them can keep them more active and engaged with life. As dementia develops it can become harder and harder for people to interact and converse with family members and friends who are also affected by these changes. This can lead to people living with the disease feeling alone and unable to connect with others. Research has shown that, on average, older people in care have only 2-3 minutes of meaningful inter-action a day which isn’t about their physical needs. Yet academic research shows as little as 10 minutes of meaningful conversation can have a positive impact on people’s wellbeing1. Alive is dedicated to improving the lives of older people and we hope this free resource will support loved ones and carers alike to feel close, providing a fun way to share special memories and experiences together when it matters most.”With over 60 years combined experience providing creative arts sessions for older people, and training for their care staff, Alive are experts in communicating with people living with dementia. The charity has drawn on this experience to develop this set of easy to use conversation cards to enable anyone to connect with people living with the disease. The conversation cards are available as a free downloadable pdf from the Alive website https://aliveactivities.org/alive/en/resources/conversation-cards-for-dementia-/
Runwood Homes residents revel in ‘A Day to Remember’
On Wednesday 19 September, Runwood Homes residents enjoyed a specially organised, live music and entertainment concert. The fun filled event was attended by over 400 people from over 33 Runwood Homes Senior Living residential care homes, and was held in the grand marquee at Chelmsford City Racecourse. All in attendance truly joined in; ‘A Day to Remember’. Now in its second year, ‘A Day to Remember’, successfully organised by two of Runwood’s Home Mangers; Leigh Anne Cowling of Broomhills in Rochford and Laura Glyde of Stafford Hall in Benfleet, aimed to raise awareness of dementia and provide a fantastic day out for Runwood’s Essex and Hertfordshire-based residents, many who are living with dementia. Julie Jive, Tracey Searle, The Quiet Man, and Chris Whitecroft performed on stage to the captivated crowd that got residents and the carers and loved ones on their feet dancing! Those seated waved their arms in the air to the music and everyone sang along in splendour. Caters provided a hearty meal and a raffle concluded the dementia friendly event. Proceeds from the raffle, in which Boots provided the prizes, are to be donated to the Alzheimer’s Society. The event was attended by Essex County Council members including Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Yvonne Spence, who commented they were ‘absolutely grateful that they were invited and very much impressed with everyone’s contribution to make a difference’. Representatives from supplier Boots UK attended too and support was on hand from St Johns Ambulance. The Runwood Homes Dementia Services Team supported with the logistics and operations to ensure smooth transportation and overseeing the wellbeing of all residents on their day out. Commenting on the day Kieun Kwon, Runwood Homes’ Associate Director of Dementia Services said, “It was wonderful to see our residents enjoying themselves and experiencing a concert of this kind; organised entirely just for them.” Jenna Port Smith, Activity Coordinator at The Grange in Wickford said, ‘It was a nice idea that residents had slips available that they could write their comments on regarding their views of the event and what part they liked best.’ Feeling proud, care home resident Frank Carter, 89, said his favourite memory of the day was ‘the way the old people are handling their dementia.’ Runwood Homes is a top residential care home provider with over 70 homes across the UK providing expert care for older people, including those living with dementia, requiring general nursing, reablement or respite care. For more news and information, please visit www.runwoodhomes.co.uk
Smile For Life Children’s Charity’s pop-up care home café
A POP-UP café was created at a Tyneside care home by young adults with learning difficulties. Smile For Life Children’s Charity visited Waverley Lodge Care Home, in Lemington, to run the temporary café for the elderly residents and their visitors. They served cakes and scones while chatting and making friends with those living at the home. The youngsters shared stories from their camping trip to Norway, organised by the charity, talking about how cold it was and what activities they took part in. Resident Ethel Smith was joined at the café by her daughter, Pauline, who said: “The youngsters are an inspiration.” Michelle Park, activities coordinator at Waverley Lodge Care Home, on Bewick Crescent, said: “The residents thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the young adults from Smile For Life – who they said were all really lovely. “They loved hearing about their adventures as well as the food and service from their pop-up café. We all hope to see them again soon.” Smile For Life Children’s Charity also runs Café Beam, on Ashburton Road, in Gosforth, Newcastle, providing employment for young adults with learning difficulties. Waverley Lodge Care Home is part of the Hill Care Group. For further information visit www.hillcare.net. Smile For Life is a charity dedicated to enhancing and enriching the lives of children. For further information visit www.smileforlife.org.uk. Café Beam, run by charity Smile For Life, is located on Ashburton Road, Gosforth, Newcastle. For further information visit https://www.facebook.com/pg/cafebeamnewcastle.
Dementia Care Matters – Who we are
We believe that when we get Dementia Care right – We get All Care right – so this model will support excellence across all needs and sectors – it’s about the person first and last. The next time you communicate with someone who is not at his or her cognitive best, remind yourself of this: “This interaction is not about me. This interaction is about someone who is seeking connection on terms that may not advance the interests or needs of my ego. I am going to go where your needs are taking you. I am going to be with you in that place, wherever and however it is. I am going to let my ego disappear now. I am going to love you in your image instead of trying to re-create you in mine.” Quoted from Love, Loss and Laughter: Seeing Alzheimer’s Differently by Cathy Greenblat 2012 Lyons Press: Guildford, Connecticut. • An Innovative, Transformative way of delivering excellence in all care settings • Proven to improve all Key Performance Indicators, both operationally & financially – keeping Emotional Intelligence at the heart of everything. • A step by step programme to support you to be the best, whilst remaining True to Yourself & Others • A pathway to Authentic Leadership that Transforms the lives of the people who work, live and interact with the support you offer. Feeling that you matter in dementia care involves just the same things as mattering in other times of our lives. Life is a journey and every moment has significance, it makes us who we are and this feeling is not limited by a diagnosis. We achieve significant moments by: • Knowing our ‘feelings matter most’ in life – we feel. • Turning a place into ‘feeling at home’ – we look. • Needing to be reached – we connect. • Having a purpose and engaging in meaningful activity – we occupy. • Valuing relationships with people – we share. • Being loved for who we are – we reach. • Sensing acceptance and freedom – we relax. • Nurturing and looking after oneself – we matter. Founded by Dr David Sheard in the United Kingdom in 1995, this inspirational model of care has now been implemented in world leading care homes, hospitals & home care services throughout the U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia & the United States of America. Based on tried & tested operational tools, with demonstratively powerful results, we will work with care services of all sizes to improve your dementia care. Please contact us on admin@dementiacarematters.com or visit our website on www.dementiacarematters.com
