Care Home Falls Cut by 87%
Care Home Falls Cut by 87% Using AI Technology in Award-Winning North London Project – Changing The Way Care Homes Deliver Night Time Care. HSJ Digital Award win for NCL ICB, TPHC and Ally Cares for transforming night-time care through sleep-focused tech enabled care. London, 10 July 2025 — A pioneering collaboration between North Central London ICB (NCL ICB), North London Councils, Transformation Partners in Health and Care (TPHC), and care tech provider Ally Cares has been named winner of the “Connecting Health and Social Care Through Digital” category at the prestigious HSJ Digital Awards 2025. The HSJ Digital Awards received a record number of entries, reflecting the scale and pace of digital innovation taking place across UK health and care settings. The winning project reduced night-time falls by up to 87% across 10 care homes using AI-powered acoustic monitoring , a game-changing solution that enables care teams to intervene only when needed, protecting sleep and restoring calm to the night shift. At the heart of this innovation is a simple but often overlooked truth: sleep is critical to health, recovery, and safety in later life. Without it, residents are more prone to falls, confusion, agitation, infections, and hospital admissions. Led by NCL ICB, North London Councils , TPHC and Care and technology partner Ally Cares, the project used smart AI resident monitoring to transform night care across 10 care homes, reducing unnecessary checks, improving sleep, and increasing safety. The approach has been transformational and has achieved powerful results: Muyi Adekoya, Head of Market Development and Chief Nursing Officer’s Directorate – Complex Care, NCL ICB, said: “This win reflects the strength of partnership working in North Central London, and the willingness of care providers to embrace and leverage digital solutions that make a real difference to care home residents who have complex health and social care needs. From improved health outcomes to more empowered care staff, we’re proud to see this work recognised. A big thank you to everyone involved. We hope that the compelling evidence from this project will help the NHS and providers to utilise acoustic monitoring technology to improve outcomes, reduce hospital admissions and support improved care overall.” Richard Taylor-Elphick, Partnership Director at North London Councils, said: “This project and subsequent award highlight the value of collaboration across health and social care organisations. We are delighted that the hard work of colleagues from the ICB, North Central London Training Hub, TPHC, Local Authorities, and the care provider sector has been recognised in this way. They have demonstrated the wide-ranging benefits of investing in, deploying, and supporting digital technologies in the social care sector — from preventing health deterioration for local residents and improving care planning for providers to helping the workforce develop digital skills.” The programme was delivered in partnership with TPHC, whose digital and analytics team led the design, evaluation and scale-up of the approach. Jo Bowers, Associate Director, Digital, Data, Analytics & Productivity at TPHC, said: “With a huge focus on the potential and benefits of digital in the health and care sector, we are incredibly proud of our team who have supported our colleagues in NCL ICB and North London Councils to take leaps forward in their digital adoption. ‘‘We’re proud to showcase the success of TPHC’s agile, scalable and results-driven approach to this programme. Our role in digitising social care also continues through our work with North West London ICB and the London Borough of Hounslow.” The technology underpinning the programme was provided by Ally Cares, the UK’s leading evidence based provider of AI-powered acoustic monitoring for care homes. The Ally system uses AI intelligence with sound and motion based alerts to detect potential risks such as movement, coughing, or distress and sends a notification to staff to determine if action is needed. Thomas Tredinnick, CEO and Co-Founder of Ally Cares, said: “This is about giving teams insight without intrusion. Technology should never replace care, but it can give it the time and focus it deserves. The link between disturbed nights and increased falls is clear and our technology gives care teams the insight they need to act earlier, avoid unnecessary checks, and let residents sleep in peace. We’re thrilled to see this work recognised at a national level and to support homes by enabling a faster response when needed, and peace of mind when not.” This win recognises a scalable model of digitally enabled care, one that blends human intuition with smart tech to deliver better nights, and better days, for some of the UK’s most vulnerable residents. The programme has changed more than just statistics, it’s changed culture. Night shifts have become calmer. Residents are more settled. And families have greater confidence in care. Julie Burton, Head of Operations at Azalea Court (part of Twinglobe Care Limited) who featured in this project, added: “We’ve seen a huge improvement in outcomes. Residents are sleeping better, staff feel more confident, and families are reassured knowing care is calm but responsive. It’s changed the way we care at night.” By placing sleep at the centre of care, and using digital tools to preserve and protect it, this project offers a replicable model for integrated, insight-led care across the UK. About North Central London Integrated Care Board NHS North Central London Integrated Care Board (NCL ICB) works in partnership with local NHS organisations, councils, and voluntary sector organisations, to improve the health and care of residents in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey, and Islington. About Transformation Partners in Health and Care Transformation Partners in Health and Care (TPHC) delivers high-quality bespoke consultancy, programmes and projects from neighbourhoods to a national level, with an outstanding track record in achieving positive and tangible results for populations. We have three distinct offers, ‘partnerships’, ‘consulting’ and ‘digital productivity‘, with all teams working together to co-support programmes, share expertise and devolve learning. Contact: rf-tr.tphc-communication@nhs.net
Social care group raises over £2,600 in cycling challenge
Staff, residents and supporters of HICA Group, a Yorkshire headquartered not-for-profit social care provider, have raised more than £2,600 from its annual Tour De HICA, cycling challenge event. They reached an impressive 1,962 miles in just 24 hours to support wellbeing initiatives across the organisation. During the challenge, five bikes and a treadmill at HICA’s central office were kept in near-constant motion, with teams cycling through the day and night. Among the standout efforts was Pat Godney, the 72-year-old mother of Information and Systems Manager Paula Jory, who clocked up 60 miles. Also stepping up was Tanya, a care worker from HICA at Home Grimsby, who arrived with her son at 1.30am after travelling from Cleethorpes and cycled for four hours straight. HICA Group CEO Terry Peel was one of two staff members who stayed for the full 24 hours. He said: “The energy and commitment on display was incredible. People came in on their day off, turned up with family and returned in the evening after work just to contribute a few more miles. It was a real team effort and one that makes a difference to the lives of the people we care for.” Residents played an important part too. The Hollies, a Hull based care home, helped launch the challenge, with one resident clocking up the first six miles, while residents from Isaac Robinson Court, another one HICA’s care homes in Hull, helped bring the event to a close. The bulk of the mileage was completed at the Hesslewood main office, where teams racked up an astonishing 1,1210 miles. Other contributions came from the HICA at Home offices at Doncaster, Grimsby, Chorley and Hull HICA at Home Hull who clocked up an amazing 668 miles, and also at care homes Elm Tree Court, The Grange, Overton House and The Hollies who managed 84 miles. Reflecting on her mum’s involvement, Paula Jory added: “It was brilliant to see so many people getting involved whether for five minutes or five hours. My mum was determined to play her part and just kept going! The whole event had a real buzz about it.” The event also received generous backing from corporate supporters including Avendra, CareHome Life, Gordon Solar and Power Solutions, Weborchard, and Sylvester Keal. All funds raised will help enhance the lives of residents and service users across HICA homes and services, supporting activities, trips and specialist equipment.
The Care Workers’ Charity Responds to the NHS 10-Year Plan
The Care Workers’ Charity welcomes today’s announcement of a 10-year plan for the NHS, particularly its ambition to deliver care closer to home and prioritise prevention. However, we are deeply concerned by the near-total absence of adult social care from this vision. It is simply not feasible to transform the NHS without also addressing the urgent crisis facing adult social care. These sectors may be distinct, but they are intrinsically linked – any meaningful NHS reform will depend on a sustainable and well-resourced adult social care system. The government’s plan outlines major changes, including the creation of neighbourhood health centres, mental health teams in every school, and a shift toward digital delivery of services. However, without a parallel investment in adult social care, these goals risk being unachievable. Care workers – particularly those in domiciliary care – are the very professionals already delivering care in the community. Yet they remain chronically undervalued, underpaid, and under pressure. A vision for the future of health must include adult social care. The failure to do so is not only a strategic oversight – it is a missed opportunity to fix the very system that underpins NHS success. It is unacceptable that a 10-year plan for the NHS fails to acknowledge the 2 million-strong workforce who are vital to its delivery. As Karolina Gerlich, CEO of the Care Workers’ Charity states: “Today’s announcement continues a worrying trend: adult social care is chronically ignored in national reform plans. Shifting more care into the community without resourcing adult social care is not transformation; it’s a transfer of pressure onto a workforce already stretched to breaking point. Care workers are increasingly expected to take on delegated health tasks – complex, clinical responsibilities that were once the remit of nurses – without the training, pay, or professional recognition they deserve. These tasks are growing, yet the sector remains underfunded, undervalued, and underrepresented in policy decisions. If we are serious about delivering on this plan, we must invest in the people who are delivering care day in, day out. The Government must stop perceiving social care as just an enabler to the NHS. That starts with a fully funded Fair Pay Agreement and a 10-year plan for adult social care that matches the ambition shown for the NHS.” The Care Workers’ Charity is calling for: For further information please contact Sophie Henry at The Care Workers’ Charity on sophie@thecwc.org.uk. facebook.com/thecareworkerscharity twitter.com/CareWorkersFund instagram.com/thecareworkerscharity/ linkedin.com/company/thecareworkerscharity/ tiktok.com/@thecareworkerscharity youtube.com/@thecareworkerscharity2433
National Bingo! Day
Residents at Friends of the Elderly’s Luton Residential Care Home ‘Bang the Drum’ and Celebrate This Year’s National Bingo! Day At Little Bramingham Farm, the Luton-based residential care home run by Charity, Friends of the Elderly, which is celebrating its 120th Anniversary this year, the residents have had a ‘Jump and Jive’ time celebrating this year’s National Bingo! Day. “The residents never miss their weekly Bingo! games, it’s one of the most popular sessions on our wide and varied activities calendar,” said Emma Lawrance, the Registered Manager at Little Bramingham Farm. “Back on the 27th June 2021, National Bingo! Day was formally recognised in the UK and as the residents thoroughly enjoy their weekly Bingo! afternoons, we knew they’d love to ‘Rise and Shine’ and make ‘Time for Tea’ to celebrate the day’s anniversary.” “National Bingo! Day is a day which is dedicated to commemorating, celebrating and of course, enjoying the wonderfully entertaining and inclusive game of Bingo,” added Karen Charity, Little Bramingham Farm’s Activity Coordinator. “The residents adore their Bingo! games, which can get rather competitive, but are always full of laughter and fun, so they needed no encouragement to have a special National Bingo! Day session. “I set the room up so everyone can see me and I make sure I speak loudly and clearly so everyone can all hear me. I like to make sure that all the residents have time to check their Bingo cards and are up-to-speed with the numbers.” … “For National Bingo! Day I thought it would be nice to give the residents a few fun facts, so I did a bit of research into the game,” continued Emma. “I was surprised to learn that quite a few celebrities are keen Bingo! players. Welsh actress, Catherine Zeta-Jones has played Bingo! since she was a child and, evidently, loved going to the Bingo! hall with her parents. Once, her parents won about £100,000 playing Bingo! and, with their winnings, sent Catherine to dance classes which allowed her to follow her childhood dreams. “Other famous Bingo! enthusiasts are Sharon Osbourne, wife of rock singer Ozzy Osbourne, Robbie Williams, Supermodel Kate Moss, Mick Jagger and entertainer Shane Richie, who is – evidently – often seen at weekends in Bingo! halls playing the game.” “At Little Bramingham Farm, we design a wide range of meaningful activities for the residents which are all created around their likes, preferences and favourite pastimes,” added Karen. “Playing Bingo! has many benefits for older people as it is a fun, interactive way for them to socialise, interact and laugh with each other. It also enhances hand-eye coordination and keeps players engaged and focused. Listening to the number being called, finding the corresponding number and marking or dabbing the appropriate number can also stimulate brain function. “We have a variety of different Bingo! games in each session. We play One Line, Two Lines and, of course, the main attraction – A Full House. My favourite Bingo Call is ’46 – Up To Tricks’ as this always gets a giggle.” Emma and Karen always make sure that there’s a wide range and variety of Bingo! prizes to hand out. “Our weekly Bingo! prizes range from nice smellies and toiletries for both ladies and gentlemen, chocolates and treats, to small bottles of bubbly or wine. The prizes change for our themed Bingo! sessions such as Easter, Halloween and Christmas,” continued Karen. “It really was ‘Tickety-boo’ seeing how much the residents enjoyed the National Bingo! Day session, they were totally engaged and motivated – and best of all, they were laughing and joking, having a wonderful time,” concluded Emma. www.fote.org.uk
Student-led research tackles frontline healthcare issues
Nottingham Trent University’s Institute of Health and Allied Professions has showcased a powerful collection of student-led research which directly tackles some of today’s most urgent frontline healthcare challenges. From dementia care and maternal mortality to infection control and emergency response, each project displayed at its annual Student Summer Showcase demonstrated a strong commitment to improving health and social care services in Nottingham and beyond through evidence-based practice and innovation. The event highlighted projects by students from courses such as nursing, paramedicine, public health, and frailty studies. Some of the students are already embedded in clinical roles across Nottinghamshire and their work reflects real-world insights and solutions that can be rapidly translated into improved patient care. Students tackled issues such as the loss of physical and cognitive function in hospitalised older adults, the impact of frailty on infection outcomes, and the role of comprehensive geriatric assessments in hip fracture recovery. These projects underscored the importance of holistic, person-centred care in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens. Presenting a global perspective, a study on sickle cell disease in Nigeria, Brazil, and Jamaica highlighted the potential for policy-driven interventions to reduce mortality in low-resource settings. Another compelling project examined maternal mortality in Nigeria, debunking myths and advocating for culturally competent care to meet Sustainable Development Goals. The showcase also delved into the psychological and ethical dimensions of healthcare. A study on paramedics’ preparedness to withhold paediatric resuscitation revealed gaps in training and emotional support, while another explored the value of cadaver-based learning in enhancing paramedic education. Leadership and reflective practice were recurring themes, with students presenting personal journeys of growth and resilience in clinical settings. From coordinating care for frail patients to leading community-based palliative care initiatives, the projects demonstrated how NTU students are already making a tangible difference in the lives of patients and communities. Dr Jennie Walker, Principal Lecturer in the Institute of Health and Allied Professions at NTU said: “What sets this research apart is its direct relevance to frontline practice. Whether it’s enhancing support for ambulance staff returning from long-term absence, reducing hospital-acquired deconditioning in older adults, or advocating for inclusive palliative care, these projects are not just academic exercises, they are blueprints for better, more responsive healthcare systems.” “The presentations and posters really showcased the best of what NTU has to offer, with some very thought provoking and innovative work on display, particularly from the undergraduate students who clearly have some very exciting careers ahead of them,” said Adam Yates, BSc Emergency and Urgent Care (top-up) graduate, who presented his dissertation on front line ambulance staff perceptions of support received when returning to clinical roles from long-term absence. “Although I was nervous about presenting, I was proud that I could share my hard work, and have it valued by other students and faculty. Knowing that people were genuinely interested in what I had done really cemented that the vast number of hours that I put in were worth it. “I met and spoke with some genuinely brilliant students and wider NHS workforce who have given me the confidence and encouragement to continue my academic and research aspirations.” Heather Cutts, Collaborative Clinical Lead for NTU’s Neonatal Care course, added: “The showcase was a day that allowed us to learn from others and network. It was inspiring to see the work that people are doing to improve current practice.” Dr Anne Felton, Head of the Institute of Health and Allied Professions at NTU, said: “This showcase celebrates the achievements of all participants and reinforces NTU’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders. It is also a testament to the passion, creativity, and critical thinking of our students. Their research not only contributes to academic knowledge but also has the potential to shape future healthcare policy and practice.” For further information on the Institute of Health and Allied Professions at NTU, visit the website.
Top Rating In Leading Care Provider Guide
Creggan Bahn Care Home in Ayr has earned top rating, a perfect 10/10 score on Carehome.co.uk – based entirely on feedback from those living in the home and their loved ones. The 58-bed care home, specialising in nursing, dementia, residential, and respite care, earned the highest possible score on the leading care home review website, with relatives’ comments describing care as “first class” and “of the highest standard.” One review from a family member said: “Their kind and caring staff are their biggest asset, if I could give more than 5 stars for care and support from their staff I would.”Another commented that the care team treated their loved one “lovingly and respectfully” adding that “they became part of our family.” Registered Home Manager, Samantha Baxter-Hendren, said: “At Creggan Bahn Care Home, creating a warm and welcoming environment is at the heart of everything we do – and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that reflected in the experiences of those living with us and their families. “We’re thrilled to have received the highest rating possible on Carehome.co.uk. This achievement is a direct result of the dedication and kindness shown by every member of our team. There’s no greater compliment than knowing we’re making a real difference to the people who matter most.” Carehome.co.uk includes details of care homes around the UK, alongside ratings and comments posted by members of the public. It is a popular site used by families looking to explore care options. A home’s Carehome.co.uk review is created by calculating all the current review scores, which cover all aspects of life and care in the home, including the activities and menu options available. To find out more about Maria Mallaband Care Group visit: https://www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk
Virgin Money joins forces with The Care Workers’ Charity
Virgin Money has announced a new partnership with The Care Workers’ Charity (CWC), reinforcing its commitment to supporting the UK’s vital care sector. Through this partnership, a share of the arrangement fee from every new care sector loan will be donated directly to CWC’s crisis grants programme, providing urgent financial support to the dedicated individuals who care for our communities every day. The UK’s social care sector employs over 2 million people, making it one of the country’s largest and most essential workforces. Despite facing significant challenges, from staffing shortages to rising costs, care workers continue to deliver compassionate, life-changing support every single day. This partnership with Virgin Money comes at a critical time, helping to strengthen the safety net for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. The CWC’s crisis grants programme offers emergency financial assistance to care workers experiencing unexpected hardships such as illness, bereavement, domestic abuse, or sudden loss of income. With an average grant of £500, the programme helps individuals regain stability during life’s most difficult moments. Virgin Money aims to support at least 200 care workers each year through this initiative, easing the financial pressures faced by those on the front lines of care. Derek Breingan, Director Health and Social Care at Virgin Money, said: “Care workers are the backbone of our communities, providing essential support to some of the most vulnerable people in society. At Virgin Money, we believe in building a better future for people and communities, and that means standing with those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. “Our partnership with The Care Workers’ Charity reflects this purpose in action, ensuring that care workers have access to vital support when they need it most. We’re proud to play a part in strengthening the safety net for this incredible workforce.” Karolina Gerlich, CEO of The Care Workers’ Charity, added: “This innovative partnership with Virgin Money marks a significant step forward in how businesses can support the social care sector. By linking financial services with direct support for care workers, Virgin Money is setting a powerful example of how cross-sector collaboration can create meaningful change. “We are so grateful for their commitment to the care workforce — their support will provide a vital safety net for those facing crisis. We hope this partnership inspires others to stand with the care workers who give so much to society every day.” The new partnership is now live, with donations being made for every new care sector loan arranged. Virgin Money encourages other organisations in this sector to explore how they too can support the wellbeing of care workers. facebook.com/thecareworkerscharity twitter.com/CareWorkersFund instagram.com/thecareworkerscharity/ linkedin.com/company/thecareworkerscharity/ tiktok.com/@thecareworkerscharity youtube.com/@thecareworkerscharity2433
‘Radar girl’ experience from World War Two on Armed Forces Day
HC-One’s Lauren Court Care Home in Chester, Cheshire, is proud to share the remarkable story of resident Pamela McAlpine on Armed Forces Day (Saturday, June 28), a 101-year-old veteran who served as a radar operator during World War II. Born on December 28, 1923, Pamela joined the army at just seventeen, without her parents’ knowledge, driven by a sense of duty. As a “radar girl”, she played a vital role in defending the nation. Stationed initially in Loch Lomond, Scotland, Pamela worked alongside three other women in a radar box, who scanned the skies for enemy aircraft. Her primary role was monitoring mid-distance radar, while her colleagues covered long and short distances. The fourth team member relayed their findings to the sergeant. Pamela’s service took her from the northeast of Scotland down the entire East Coast on Clacton Beach. Her efforts, alongside her comrades, were instrumental in countering threats like the German Stukas, which contributed to the Allied victory in 1945. During Pamela’s time in the army, she met her beloved husband Hugh Scott, who famously pretended to fall in front of her to catch her attention – a charming moment that sparked their lifelong love. Her younger brother, Robert, also served in the army, following in her footsteps. Due to wartime restrictions, only two photographs of Pamela from her service exist, making her memories even more precious. Georgina Turner, HC-One’s Lauren Court Wellbeing Coordinator, said: “Pamela’s story is truly inspiring, and we’re honoured to have her with us. Her courage and dedication during the war remind us all of the sacrifices made for our freedom. Celebrating her legacy this Armed Forces Day is a privilege for our entire community.” For more information about HC-One care homes near you, please visit Care homes near me – Residential, Nursing & Dementia Care | HC One.
How to spot the signs of Dementia
Five lesser-known signs of Dementia “Sensory issues are not always recognised as dementia symptoms and as a result, are not often reported as such. These sensory issues could be increased sensitivity to noise, changes to smells and also the way that food tastes which may cause a loved one to not to enjoy food they might have used to.” “You may start to notice subtle differences in how your loved one is moving, such as shuffling instead of lifting their legs when walking. Trips and falls may also become more common. Additionally, they may start to struggle with spatial awareness and depth perception which can impact how they move around their surroundings.” “Struggling to find words is another lesser-known symptom of dementia. This can look like stuttering when trying to get a sentence out, stopping a sentence mid-way through or jumbling up similar words such as saying ‘jumper’ when they mean ‘jacket’. This is known as ‘aphasia’ and can also affect names not just generic words. “Losing track of time can be an early sign of dementia that can sometimes go under the radar. A clear sign that your loved one is suffering from this symptom is that they start being late to appointments and social meetings. It can be due to memory loss or an inability to read an analogue clock anymore.” “Starting to have an issue with reading and writing, where the person hasn’t previously had a problem, is often an indicator of dementia. This could be seen through a change in handwriting in birthday cards for example.” Three common signs of Dementia “Whilst dementia isn’t just forgetfulness, it is the most common sign that someone could potentially be suffering from dementia. It can also likely be one of the first signs of dementia when your loved one potentially starts forgetting the names and faces of other family members and their friends that they previously had no issues recalling.” “Your loved ones getting lost in familiar places is a very common sign of dementia, and it’s important to pay close attention to this as it can potentially be dangerous. Examples of this can include going to the shops and not being able to get home, or not knowing the way to other people’s houses, despite walking the same routes for many years.” “Losing items around the house or forgetting where they store certain things, such as where they keep their crockery in the kitchen is a very common sign of dementia. One way you can help your loved one through this is by labelling drawers and cupboards to help them know where they keep certain items.” Michael shares: “If you start to notice any of these signs in your loved ones, try and have a conversation with them about what you have noticed and suggestbooking a doctor’s appointment to discuss the symptoms. This will help guide you and your loved one with how to move forward. “At this point, it is also a good idea to start having conversations on care options that are available and exploring alternative living arrangements. As your lovedone’s symptoms worsen and they struggle to do more and more, a residential care home may be able to give them the support and care that they require.”
