Daviot Care Home opens Men’s Shed
Daviot Care Home, run by leading care provider Meallmore Ltd, has opened its first Men’s Shed. Thought to be the first of these spaces in a care home in Scotland, a Men’s Shed is a place to practice skills and enjoy making and mending, whilst also facilitating social connections, friendship building, and sharing skills and knowledge. At Daviot, the shed offers a safe space for residents to come together to socialise and carry out a range of activities chosen by the shedders for themselves. It will bring lots of benefits to male residents’ health and wellbeing at the care home. The shed provides tools for training and skills development and residents have already begun building garden benches and candle holders. The shed was officially opened by actor Ron Emslie, who starred in the production of “Man Shed”, which was performed during the Edinburgh International Fringe Festival For the official opening, the care home hosted a party, where colleagues and residents were joined by friends, family and loved ones to celebrate with some delicious homemade canapes and fizz. Heather Cowan, manager of the care home comments: “Being part of the Men’s Shed movement in Scotland and the welfare of men’s health is something we’re very passionate about at Meallmore. We’ve created this new space to facilitate connection, conversation and creativity for our male residents. It encourages people to come together to build, fix and restore, not only physical projects, but themselves included! “It is of huge benefit our male residents and colleagues, and we’re already seeing the benefits of it. We’re really excited to see what objects they all make and continuing to see its impact on our little community in Inverness.” Daviot is registered with the UK Men’s Shed Association. Daviot Care Home (formally known as Meallmore Lodge) was Meallmore’s first care home, which opened in Inverness in 1987. Now, Meallmore has grown to become one of Scotland’s leading care providers. The company currently has a network of 26 care homes across Scotland, including offering care for the elderly and adults with mental health diagnosis. More information about Meallmore Ltd can be found at https://www.meallmore.co.uk/
Dymchurch care home residents carry out beach clean to mark International Coastal Cleanup Day
Residents from a Kent care home have carried out a beach clean to mark International Coastal Cleanup Day — as they look to help preserve the coastline for future generations. And with this week marking the Great British Beach Clean (15th-24th September), the home is urging others to follow their lead and get involved. Residents from The Old Rectory, a branch of ACI Care that specialises in residential, respite and dementia care, teamed up with members of the local community for an afternoon of beach cleaning in Dymchurch – which saw residents picking up litter and ocean debris that had been washed in by the tide. In recent years, the growing problem of beach litter and pollution has been a cause for concern – something that had been noted by residents of the New Hall Close home, and was the source of inspiration behind their effort Noting Saturday the 16th of September was International Coastal Cleanup Day, a global initiative dedicated to preserving the coastlines and protecting wildlife, the care home team, which included a mix of residents, carers and families headed down to the beach to try and make a difference. As part of the cleanup, the home provided participants with litter pickers, gloves, rubbish bags, and high-vis jackets, which saw a range of people of all ages join in – from a nine-year-old to a ninety-nine-year-old. Locals who were passing by offered a helping hand and voiced their support, while Dorothy Latham, 89, an Old Rectory resident who participated on the day, said: “I hope the people who’ve been leaving the litter start to realise what they are doing!” These sentiments were echoed by Kelly Parker, Care Home Manager at the Old Rectory, who said: “We hope we’re inspiring others in the care community and the community in general to get involved to help keep their beaches clean. And for all those that throw their litter: pick it up and put it in the bin!” Watch a video of The Old Rectory team’s beach clean, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOjfvYt-vwk&ab_channel=ACICare For further information on The Old Rectory and ACI Care, please visit https://aci.care/our-homes/the-old-rectory/
Conference to Relaunch Nottinghamshire Care Association
The care sector in Nottinghamshire is to get a shot in the arm thanks to two business leaders who are relaunching the Nottinghamshire Care Association. The association, which represents social care providers across the county, has been dormant for two years. But Volt Sacco and Alison Pearce have stepped in as co-chairs and will relaunch the organisation at a conference at Colwick Hall Hotel in Nottingham next month. Volt is Chief Executive of Fosse Healthcare, which provides domiciliary and complex care services throughout the Midlands and South Yorkshire, while Alison Pearce is Managing Director of Five Focal Point which owns two family-run care homes in Nottinghamshire. “The Nottinghamshire Care Association will once again be a voice for social care businesses and business leaders, and it will support its members to provide better care across Nottinghamshire,” said Volt. “Our focus will be on integrating social care and health services for the benefit of the whole population, and on working together to solve the problems that our sector faces.” Membership of the Nottinghamshire Care Association will cost just £25 per year, and Volt is aiming to double membership by the end of this year. The keynote speakers at the launch conference on Thursday 5th October will be Melanie Williams, Corporate Director for Adult Social Care at Nottinghamshire County Council, and Amanda Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire NHS Integrated Care Board, and Jane Laughton, Chief Executive of Healthwatch. “The future for our association is exciting,” Alison added. “I want to encourage people from the adult social care sector to come along to our conference and to join the Nottinghamshire Care Association so that we can properly represent and support our sector.” The conference includes a buffet lunch and takes place from 10.30am to 4pm on 5th October 2023. It’s free for Nottinghamshire Care Association members, and there is a nominal fee of £25 for non-members whichcan be claimed against the cost of membership if you decide to join the NCA. To register, visit the Eventbrite page. Members can use a discount code to register for free – please email contact@nca.care if you haven’t yet received your code.
Care Roadshow South: Epsom Downs Racecourse, Tuesday 17th October 2023 Care Roadshow Wales: Cardiff City Stadium, Tuesday 14th November 2023
Care Roadshows is returning for the final two locations of 2023, undergoing a rebrand to reflect the growth of these special events. Previously known as Care Roadshow ‘London’ and ‘Cardiff’, you can now find yourself visiting Care Roadshow ‘South’ and ‘Wales’. These highly anticipated events bring together care sector directors, owners, CEOs and other healthcare workers, uniting the care community to grow your sector knowledge, develop your business, make new connections and join discussions on current challenges the sector is facing and take actions away with you. Why Attend? Care home directors, healthcare providers, care home owners, care home managers and anyone involved in the care industry will find these events immensely beneficial. Care Roadshows features distinguished speakers, informative seminars and panel discussions led by industry experts, ensuring attendees gain valuable expertise and stay updated with the latest trends in the sector. Exhibitors in attendance will be showcasing their latest products and services that can be used to help advance your care business and the sector. What can you expect from the programmes? The care industry faces ongoing challenges, developments and advancements, making continuous learning and collaboration throughout the sector highly important. The programme at each Roadshow aims to reflect the ongoing changes within the sector and provide new information and insights to attendees. Explore Topics Including: And more. View the full Care Roadshows South programme here. View the full Care Roadshow Wales programme here. Hear From Speakers Including: View the full Care Roadshows South speaker list here. View the full Care Roadshow Wales speaker list here. If you are interested in attending Care Roadshows South or Wales, register here. https://careroadshows-2023.reg.buzz/cn
Transforming Bathing Experiences: NHC Group’s Height Adjustable and Fixed Height Assisted Baths
NHC Group, a trusted and experienced name in healthcare solutions with over two decades of excellence, proudly introduces the Height Adjustable and Fixed Height Assisted Baths. These baths are designed to revolutionise the bathing experience for both residents and caregivers in care home environments across the UK. Comfort and Safety NHC Group’s innovative Height Adjustable and Fixed Height Assisted Baths are more than just fixtures; they are a promise of improved quality of life. They focus on comfort, safety, and user experience: Personalising the Experience with Optional Extras NHC Group’s baths offer an array of optional extras that transform the bathing ritual into a spa-like indulgence You can tailor the bathing experience with a range of optional extras to create an environment that suits the unique needs and preferences of your residents: This comprehensive suite of optional extras allows care facilities to tailor the bathing experience, transforming it into a truly luxurious ritual. Additional Offerings NHC Group’s commitment extends beyond exceptional products. With ISO9001 certification and a team of fully qualified LOLER engineers, they offer a comprehensive suite of services: Quality, Craftsmanship, Care NHC Group, backed by over two decades of experience and ISO9001 certification, stands as a cornerstone in healthcare solutions. Enhance resident comfort, caregiver ease, and care facility efficiency with NHC Group’s pioneering approach. For further information and to request a site survey, please visit https://www.nhcgroup.co.uk/assisted-baths.
NACC Awards 2023 shortlist announced
The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) has revealed the shortlist for the NACC Awards 2023. The prestigious awards recognise and celebrate teams and individuals that epitomise excellence, innovation, dedication and outstanding contributions within the care catering sector. Across six categories the finalists represent those working in or associated with care catering that deliver exceptional service every day, from care homes, Meals on Wheels services and Lunch Clubs to suppliers to the sector. The overall winners will be announced at a special gala awards dinner on Thursday 5th October 2023, which is part of the NACC Training & Development Forum held at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham. The NACC Awards 2023 finalists are: Care Establishment of the Year Award, sponsored by allmanhall Meals on Wheels Award, sponsored by apetito · Food Train Ltd Catering Team of the Year Award, sponsored by Major International Catering Manager of the Year Award, sponsored by Unilever Food Solutions Our Care Catering Hero Award, sponsored by Bidfood The Bev Puxley Award*, sponsored by Worshipful Company of Cooks The winners of the following coveted awards will also be honoured at the gala awards dinner: Sue Cawthray, National Chair of the NACC, said: “Huge congratulations to all this year’s shortlisted finalists. Care catering professionals are some of the best unsung heroes as they continue to work and care for older and vulnerable people in incredibly challenging circumstances – from staff shortages to the cost-of-living crisis and supply chain issues, they continue to shine and inspire. I am continually amazed by the wonderful stories I hear from around the country, we should be very proud of them all. I very much look forward to our gala awards dinner where we will come together with fellow members, colleagues and friends, to reflect, recognise and celebrate the amazing people in our sector. Their fantastic work and achievements make an enormous difference to the lives of so many through good food and nutrition and meaningful mealtime experiences. I wish all the finalists the very best of luck!” For more information on the NACC Awards 2023 and the NACC visit www.thenacc.co.uk
Together We Are Stronger – ICG and YHCAA Partner with the Future of Care Leaders Conference North
The Independent Care Group ICG and The Yorkshire and The Humber Care Association Alliance YHCAA are thrilled to announce their dynamic partnership with Broadway Events for the highly anticipated Future of Care Leaders Conference, scheduled to take place on the 28th November 2023 at the prestigious Pavilions of Harrogate in the UK. The Future of Care Leaders Conference, organised by Broadway Events, is renowned for providing an unparalleled platform that brings together senior industry professionals, thought leaders, government officials and experts to discuss and explore the latest research, innovations and advancements in the social care sector. Building on its legacy of success, this year’s conference is set to take a new angle with exciting new features, promising to be their most immersive and transformative event to date. Emma Barrett, the Managing Director of Broadway Events, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating; “We are absolutely delighted to collaborate with the Independent Care Group and The Yorkshire and The Humber Care Association Alliance for the Future of Care Leaders Conference. This partnership represents a significant step forward in our mission to foster innovation and excellence in the care industry. Together, we are determined to create an experience that will enable delegates to improve their care businesses and enhance the lives of those who depend on their services.” Mike Padgham, Chair of the Independent Care Group and member of The Yorkshire and The Humber Care Association Alliance (YHCAA), shared his excitement about the conference, stating; ”We are delighted to be the principal partner with Broadway Events to bring this fantastic social care conference to Yorkshire once again. I would urge all providers to sign up to hear the latest news and innovations in the sector. This is an event not to be missed, particularly for those who are members of the official local associations listed who will receive preferential terms. Remember, if you are not a member of your local association, this would make a perfect opportunity to join up, as together we are stronger. The conference will showcase an innovative approach to content, featuring a captivating live-action play. Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in real-life, caregiving scenarios, allowing them to gain deeper insights into the workings of their practices and find practical solutions to the challenges they might be encountering. The programme will delve into subjects such as identifying the next generations of care leaders, promoting inclusive living for individuals with dementia, fostering sustainability in social care, and implementing strengths-based approaches to caregiving. Delegates will also explore the latest technological advancements and digital care solutions, empowering care providers to harness the potential of innovation and enhance the quality of care provided to those in need. To celebrate a day of learning and networking, the conference will culminate with a sparkling drinks reception. This delightful evening gathering will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, share insights from the day’s events, and forge valuable relationships within the care community. Care providers, industry stakeholders, and individuals dedicated to shaping the future of social care are encouraged to secure their spots at the Future of Care Leaders Conference at the Pavilions of Harrogate on the 28th November 2023. Register now and be a part of this ground-breaking event that promises to empower and drive positive change in the care industry. For registration and more information about the Future of Care Leaders Conference and its programme, visit futureofcare.co.uk/
Take your seats: Midlands care resident fulfils dream of returning to the classroom after 40 year teaching career
A Midlands care home resident and former teacher recently fulfilled her dream of returning to the classroom to share her extensive knowledge of both Judaism and braille with primary school children. Maxine Rudolph, 81, a resident of Blossomfield Care Home in Solihull, recently returned to the classroom to engage with students at St Augustine’s School in Solihull. With a remarkable 40-year teaching career and a dedication to assisting the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), Maxine brought her wealth of knowledge and experience to inspire young minds. Having devoted 23 years of her teaching career to Sinai School, London, Maxine’s commitment to education and helping others never left. Upon retirement, she took on a voluntary position at Kisharon Day School and became affectionately known as the “fairy godmother”. Maxine’s roles encompassed speech and language therapy, caring for school resources, organising the library, and ensuring vibrant displays showcased students’ hard work. Maxine’s enthusiasm for helping others also extended beyond her teaching career. When she wasn’t working at a school, Maxine volunteered her time at a recording studio, producing the Harrow Talking Newspaper and recording magazines for the blind. Her dedication to supporting those with visual impairments began during her time at the RNIB, where she served as a qualified Braille expert, reader, and transcriber of exam papers and books. Maxine’s recent visit to St Augustine’s School allowed her to share her knowledge of Judaism and the Passover Festival, while also introducing students to skills such as Makaton and braille — and delved deeper into the story of Louis Braille —all of which are part of the school’s curriculum. Bo Micu, Home Manager at Blossomfield Rose, commented: “It was a joy to see Maxine in her element, sharing her wisdom and passion for teaching with the students. The children loved her stories and it was great to see them getting involved and asking questions, learning from her wealth of experience.” In her spare time, Maxine also provided tutoring to children in need of extra academic support, including special needs children. Whilst also supporting the Alan Senitt Memorial Trust – fondly remembering her beloved nephew, raising funds and promoting religious harmony and leadership skills. The Macc Care Group owns a collection of thirteen homes across the Midlands. The group prides itself on three core values — love, care and compassion. Its luxury developments address elderly nursing, dementia and residential care with a commitment to support and enrich the lives of all its communities. For information on the Macc Care group, please visit https://www.macccare.com/ or for further information on Blossomfield Rose, visit https://macccare.com/our-homes/blossomfield-rose/.
Charity working to combat elder loneliness in care gains strength in new numbers
Gaining strength in numbers, a charity dedicated to combating loneliness among elders in care has announced a host of new appointments to the organisation as it continues its drive to raise £100,000 in 2023. Adopt a Grandparent was founded at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, helping to build new intergenerational relationships for those in care and under lockdown restrictions. Now, three-years on, it has announced the official appointment of a charity ambassador in the form of Chief Executive of Care England, Professor Martin Green. Helping to drive both awareness of the work of Adopt a Grandparent and fundraising efforts, it is hoped that the new ambassador will help to reach new audiences and inspire more people to support the charity’s work. On his new role for the charity, Professor Green said: “I am truly passionate about our care sector – both about the essential work carried out and also about the amazing people receiving care. Becoming an Ambassador for Adopt a Grandparent is an opportunity to support the sector in a whole new way and tackle a major issue for those in care. I’m very proud to help the team continue their great work.” The appointment of an official ambassador is a major move forwards for the charity’s plans to widen the reach of its support alongside its Board of Trustees; Shaleeza Hasham, Founder and CEO of Adopt a Grandparent, David Barrett, Founder and CEO of Pic PR, Sarah Skuse, Partner at Bevan Brittan LLP, and Paul Birley, former Head of Barclays Healthcare. Alongside strengthening its governance and outreach, the charity also launched a major fundraising drive at the start of the year, having raised £62,000 so far. This has gone towards developing new ways to support volunteers and ‘grandparents’, including the development of a dedicated app which offers a truly safe space for pairings to interact. The charity has had heartwarming feedback from ‘grandparents’ such as Robin Smith, who commented; “I look forward to the calls enormously,” says Robin. “Tiffany, my ‘grandchild’, tells me all about the technology in Japan where she lives. I can’t see very well so she will describe the view of the city for me and has shown me over our video calls too. Tiffany is so nice and she really listens to me. Our calls make me feel less lonely and really brighten up my day.” As part of its efforts the charity has brought onboard a number of high profile corporate sponsors, helping to spread the word and enable the incredible intergenerational pairings at the heart of it all. So far, Adopt a Grandparent has received support from multi-award winning law firm, Irwin Mitchell, alongside professional services and investment management company, Colliers, care provider management consulting and coaching firm, Fulcrum, fine jewellery specialist, Tivon and award-winning Surrey-base care group, CHD Living. Earlier in 2023, the Co-operative also named Adopt a Grandparent as one of its ‘Charities of the Year’, enabling shoppers to donate to the cause whenever they shop in store – doing good while getting the groceries. Additionally, Barclays pledged the support of its Digital Eagles who have helped to develop a bespoke training platform to impart both digital skills and the soft skills essential for younger volunteers to communicate with their elders, including those with dementia or Alzheimer’s. On strengthening the team at Adopt a Grandparent, the charity’s founder and CEO, Shaleeza Hasham commented: “It has been an incredible journey for Adopt a Grandparent, from its beginnings as a support initiative to becoming a fully-fledged charity. We have touched so many lives and, in turn, been touched by the stories and friendships of our volunteers but there is so much more work to be done, so much more we can do. Our new ambassadors, alongside my fellow trustees and our amazing corporate sponsors all make up a huge part of how we continue to grow and help more people. With 40 care homes across the UK having signed up with their residents volunteering for ‘adoption’, including the lovely Anchor Hanover SE homes, we still need more to pair with the unbelievable number of young volunteers we have. There are currently more than 90,000 people signed up to adopt their own grandparents and we’re excited to continue our work with them.” For more information about Adopt a Grandparent, to volunteer or to sign up a care home, visit www.adoptagrandparent.org.uk/.
