Eckington care home residents enjoy ‘heartwarming’ puppy visit
HC-One’s April Park Care Home, in Eckington, Derbyshire, has been filled with joy and smiles after a special visit from a delightful puppy. Archie, a young playful and affectionate puppy, has recently brought a burst of energy and warmth to residents after visiting the care home which provides residential and residential dementia care. Residents thoroughly enjoyed the company of their furry friend Archie. Archie has offered a source of comfort and happiness for residents, who eagerly await his visits. Whether playing fetch, wagging his tail, or simply curling up in laps for a snuggle, Archie’s presence has provided an opportunity for residents to engage in gentle, therapeutic interaction with an adorable companion. Anne Frith, HC-One’s April Park resident, said: “We’ve loved having Archie here at April Park, he is just adorable. It is always heartwarming to see him, and he provides a burst of energy.” Sharna Wall, HC-One’s April Park Wellbeing Coordinator, stated: “Archie’s visits have been brightened up our daily routine, and it’s so nice to see how much the residents enjoy his company. It’s amazing to see the connection that has been formed between the residents and Archie – it truly shows the power of animal therapy.” For more information on HC-One homes in your area visit www.hc-one.co.uk/carehomes.
Legionella Control in Care Homes – A Vital Commitment to Safety
Effective legionella control is essential in care homes, where vulnerable residents, often elderly and with underlying health conditions, face heightened risks from Legionnaires’ disease. This severe form of pneumonia, caused by inhaling water droplets containing Legionella pneumophila, underscores the importance of stringent water management protocols. Care homes must not only comply with legal regulations but also align with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards to ensure a safe environment for residents. The Role of the CQC The Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection framework, aligned with Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment) of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, requires care homes to mitigate risks, including those from water systems. Poor legionella management can lead to adverse CQC ratings, reputational damage, and legal consequences. Legionella control is integral to infection prevention, which the CQC prioritizes in assessing care home safety and quality. An outbreak would severely undermine a care home’s ability to meet these standards, endangering residents and jeopardizing its reputation. Challenges in Legionella Control Care homes face unique challenges in legionella management: Aging Infrastructure: Older plumbing systems with dead legs and corroded pipes often harbour bacteria. Complex Water Systems: Facilities like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms require extensive piping, increasing management complexity. Limited Resources: Tight budgets and staff shortages can hinder effective water hygiene practices. Inadequate Training: Without proper training, staff may fail to recognize and address legionella risks. These challenges necessitate a focused approach to ensure compliance and resident safety. Best Practices for Care Homes 1. Risk Assessments A comprehensive legionella risk assessment is the foundation of control measures. It should identify high-risk areas, evaluate existing maintenance protocols, and be regularly reviewed, especially after system changes. 2. Routine Monitoring and Maintenance Maintaining water at safe temperatures is crucial: hot water above 60°C and cold water below 20°C. Regular flushing of infrequently used outlets and inspecting systems for biofilm or stagnation are essential tasks. Movement of water is one of the most important tasks to help prevent bacteria proliferating in stagnant water. Annual Servicing of Thermostatic Mixing Valves are essential not only for Legionella control but to check they are operational but also to help prevent scold risk. Expansion Vessel Flushing and inspections are key as these create dead legs but are essential on some heating systems. 3. Cleaning and Disinfection Regular cleaning of tanks and disinfection of systems using effective biocides, such as Endosan, help eliminate bacteria and biofilm. 4. Staff Training Training ensures staff understand the risks, perform monitoring tasks effectively, and respond promptly to irregularities. Competent staff are key to meeting CQC expectations. 5. Record Keeping Comprehensive records of water hygiene activities are vital for demonstrating compliance during CQC inspections. Conclusion Legionella control in care homes is not just a regulatory obligation but an ethical responsibility. By implementing robust Legionella Control Systems with risk assessments, effective monitoring, and ongoing staff training, care homes can safeguard their residents and meet CQC standards. At Irrigonics our Proactive water management ensures safety, supports high CQC ratings, and reinforces public trust in the care home’s commitment to excellence. https://www.careandnursing-magazine.co.uk/3dissue/cne-water-hygiene-insights
Continence Care to Produce Insightful Report
Ontex Hosts UK Roundtable Event on the Future of Continence Care to Produce Insightful Report Ontex, a global manufacturer in continence care products, proudly hosted its first roundtable event since COVID-19 at its UK office in Corby. This landmark gathering brought together senior NHS professionals, the NHS Supply Chain, and representatives from the Bladder Health UK charity to discuss the evolving landscape of continence care in the UK. Over two insightful days, participants explored critical issues impacting the sector, including sustainability, shifting societal attitudes toward continence care, and the implications of demographic changes. Discussions also delved into rising expectations within the field, touching on key themes such as training and education, funding challenges, promoting bladder health, and adapting to broader healthcare changes shaped by patient needs. A central outcome of the event was the creation of the UK Continence Care in 2024/25 Roundtable Report, offering actionable insights and recommendations for stakeholders in the sector. The report is now available online at the new Ontex Insights website. “Hosting this roundtable demonstrates Ontex’s commitment to fostering collaboration and driving progress in continence care,” said Helen Seymour, UK & Ireland Healthcare Commercial Director at Ontex. “By bringing together such a diverse and experienced group, we’ve been able to identify shared challenges and explore innovative ways to address them. We hope the insights from this event will support the sector in navigating the changes ahead.” The event reinforces Ontex’s dedication to working in partnership with those in the healthcare sector to raise awareness of crucial issues and work towards sustainable, innovative solutions that prioritise dignity, health, and wellbeing of both healthcare professionals and end users of continence containment products. To access the report, please visit https://www.ontexinsights.com
Immigration reform is damaging the care sector
Care home recreates white wedding for grandmother
A care home in Solihull has hosted a white wedding after one of its residents was forced to miss her grandson’s nuptials. The family of Val Graham were bitterly disappointed that she was unable to see grandson Harry tie the knot with his bride Megan in July. So staff at Royal Star & Garter, where Val now lives, worked with her family to recreate the wedding at the Home, on Sunday 1 December – complete with the beautiful bride in her wedding dress, bridesmaids, page boys and family present. A staff member who is especially close to Val also came in on her day off to do her hair and make-up. Royal Star & Garter provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia, and also has Homes in Surbiton and High Wycombe. The charity has also launched a range of new services into the community. After the ceremony, in which Royal Star & Garter Wellbeing Coordinator Lorraine took the role of vicar and ‘performed’ the ceremony, the family enjoyed a wedding buffet with other residents at the Home. Harry and Megan had married in Redditch earlier this year, but ill-health meant Val was unable to be there. Harry said: “My nan has always been a big part of my life growing up, and she always loved a party. So Meg and I were really disappointed that she was unable to make the wedding. This second wedding was all about her, but it was also special for us to share our day with her. We now have photos of her at our wedding which we never had before.” Debbie is the daughter of Val, and mother of the groom. She said: “Mum was due to be at the wedding, and it was only at the last-minute that she was unable to attend. Harry was very upset that she wasn’t there, so this second wedding means the world to all of us. It was a fabulous day and we can’t thank Royal Star & Garter enough for giving us these wonderful memories.” Lorraine, the Wellbeing Coordinator who ‘married’ the couple at the Home, said: “We knew Val and her family were upset that she was unable to be at the first wedding, but we were never going to let her miss out on such an important day, so we decided to bring the wedding to her. You could see how much it meant to Val, to the happy couple, and the whole family.” The Home is welcoming new residents. For more information on this, new services including Lunch Club and Day Care, or to work at Royal Star & Garter in Solihull, go to www.starandgarter.org/solihull
Housing CEO urges Chancellor to reconsider
Scottish social care organisations warn of catastrophic impact of increased costs THE CEO of one of the country’s biggest housing associations has demanded urgent action from the UK Government to avert a crisis in the care sector. Angela Currie of Hanover Scotland joined over 80 leaders of not-for-profit social care organisations urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reconsider plans for increased Employers’ National Insurance (NI) contributions in an open letter. The Coalition of Care and Support Providers in Scotland (CCPS) has warned that the policy will add an estimated £30 million in costs to the sector next year, jeopardising the sustainability of vital social care services for adults, children, and young people across Scotland. Angela and the coalition have emphasised that a failure to act risks catastrophic consequences for public services, undermining the government’s broader economic and social aims. Angela Currie said: “The consequences of this decision are potentially devastating for social care providers and the vulnerable individuals who depend on these essential services. “At Hanover Scotland, we see daily the impact of high-quality housing and care on the wellbeing and independence of older people. These changes risk creating insurmountable financial pressures, forcing providers to make impossible choices about their future.” The joint letter highlights that social care providers, unlike many other organisations, lack the ability to absorb such significant cost increases. It warns of job losses, pay freezes, and potential closures of community-based support services as immediate risks of the policy. The signatories, representing a wide spectrum of care provision in Scotland, argue that the exclusion of not-for-profit organisations from NI relief threatens not only individual service users but also the wider public services network – escalating pressure on the NHS, unpaid carers, and other support systems if care services are forced to scale back or cease operations altogether. CCPS Chief Executive Rachel Cackett said: “The eNIC policy is being introduced at a time when social care providers are already at extreme risk. In March this year, over 80% of our members who responded to a survey told us they were delivering public contracts despite a deficit budget. “And as our letter states, these pressures are not limited to Scotland; the effects of long-standing under-investment in support services are being felt across the UK. Social care is pared to the bone. “How can the UK Government claim that those with the broadest shoulders should pay more when this policy will impact not-for-profit organisations supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our society?” “Services cannot continue if they are not financially viable. This policy will impact jobs – particularly for women – and risk the loss of crucial community-based provision for people who desperately need more well-resourced, rights-based, accessible, quality support.” Social care in Scotland is already operating under intense financial strain, with many providers delivering contracts at a loss. The proposed NI changes, coupled with the reduction in thresholds, could make many operations unsustainable, worsening the already precarious position of the sector. Angela added: “The people who rely on social care services deserve security and support, not uncertainty. It’s vital that decision-makers recognise the unique pressures on our sector and act to shield providers from these costs.” Angela recently warned that cuts to the housing adaptation budget would result in bed-blocking and increased burden on NHS and social care. She called for urgent action, stating that housing associations like Hanover are being forced to make impossible choices between critical home adaptations and essential refurbishments such as kitchens and bathrooms. https://www.sssc.uk.com
Burnley care home welcomes Mayor to Christmas Fayre
HC-One’s Dove Court Care Home in Burnley, Lancashire, held its annual Christmas Fayre on Saturday 28th November and were delighted to welcome in their local community. Residents and staff at Dove Court Care Home, which provides residential, nursing and dementia care, were delighted to welcome the public into the care home to enjoy a range of fun activities, stalls, and competitions. Light refreshments were also provided, including a variety of snacks. Dove Court’s guest of honour at the event was the Mayor of Burnley, Councillor Shah Hussain, who stopped by for a quick tour of the home and chatted with some of the residents. Stephanie Tillotson, Wellbeing Coordinator at Dove Court Care Home, said: “It was a wonderful fayre, and it was lovely to see everyone enjoying themselves. Thank you to all the stallholders and everyone involved!” Dove Court’s Home Manager, Catherine Brierley, commented: “What a fantastic occasion! The turn-out from the local community was fantastic, and we were delighted to be visited by the Mayor of Burnley, Councillor Shah Hussain. “We’ve been particularly grateful for the support from local businesses, who helped to advertise the event and donated items for the stalls and raffle, at the christmas fayre. “These included Burnley Leisure Centre, The Swan and Goose, Summer Palace, Jenny Noble for her hair voucher, New Waggoners, Farmhouse Biscuits, Gala Bingo, Sweet City, Mojitos, Pendle Mill, Ragnar’s Relics and Floki’s Pyrography.” https://tracking.vuelio.co.uk/tracking/click?
Care Home rated ‘Good’ in all areas in first CQC assessment
Chartwell Manor, a new Maria Mallaband Care Group (MMCG) home in Aylesbury, is celebrating being rated ‘Good’ in all areas in its first Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment. Following an inspection this summer, the 61-bed care home, open since September 2022, was recognised as safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led, with a report highlighting the home’s kind and compassionate staff and ‘positive and friendly culture.’ It is the latest in a series of good news for the home, which has earned a rare 10 out 10 rating on Carehome.co.uk based on a series of stellar reviews from the loved ones of those living in the home. It also follows Chartwell Manor winning an internal group award, MMCG’s Aspiring for Excellence Award (south) which celebrates a home which embodies MMCGS vision for the future. Chartwell Manor Care Home Manager, Hazel Greenway, said: “It has been an incredible first two years for all of us at Chartwell Manor, driven by a fantastic team, determined to deliver the very best for those in our care. I am thrilled to see all of that being reflected in great reviews, internal accolades and now this inspection report.” Throughout their time spent at Chartwell Manor Care Home, the CQC inspectors “observed people being treated with dignity and respect.” Their report notes that: “Staff treated people with kindness, empathy and compassion. People were supported to live as independently as possible.” Inspectors observed that Chartwell Manor wasn’t using any agency staff and “all staff we spoke with had a good understanding of people’s needs and knew them well.” The CQC found the needs and preferences of those living in the home are prioritised, with inspectors noting the ‘many compliments received about the standards of care.” As part of the assessment, CQC inspectors engaged with staff, residents, and relatives, reviewed records, and observed daily interactions. The feedback they recorded included remarks like “Excellent carers—very caring and committed,” and praise for the home’s cleanliness, described as “absolutley immaculate” The report also highlights Chartwell Manor’s enriching lifestyle programme, led by staff who are “enthusiastic about providing creative and enjoyable opportunities.” Those living in the home are “supported to be as independent as possible,” the report adds: “They were able to receive visitors, access the community and participate in activities.” A supportive staff culture was also reflected in the report, which records that employees felt “listened to” and “able to express their views.” Care Home Manager, Hazel Greenway, added: “This is an excellent report which highlights many of the wonderful things about Chartwell Manor. I am so proud to see the feedback those living with us and their relatives gave to the inspectors, especially the comments about how caring and committed this team is and how well we all know those in our care. “I want to thank and congratulate all my amazing colleagues at Chartwell Manor, all our partners in the community and the services supporting the home. This report is a reflection of how hard they work, how much they care, and the wonderful culture we have created in this home.” Chartwell Manor first opened its doors in September 2022. It offers 61 ensuite bedrooms, with impressive accommodation including a variety of lounges, a bar and bistro, wellness suite, movement room, hair salon and a cinema, and staff to complete the package of 24-hour personalised support on offer. The care home has sought to become an asset to the community it serves, taking part in an array of charity and community events. For more visit: https://www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk/care-homes/chartwell-manor
Budget October 2024 Providers Unite
As providers of vital services to over 1.2 million individuals nationwide and employers of a dedicated 1.59 million workforce, we deliver £68.1 billion in essential community care and support services. Our role as an indispensable pillar in Britain’s healthcare infrastructure, standing alongside our NHS colleagues. The profound impact of the proposed tax increases on all those who depend on us. Like GPs, pharmacies and hospices, we are independent businesses and charities embedded in every corner of our communities, committed to supporting citizens with diverse needs. With the state funding more than 70% of our work, we deliver an essential public service. The current Budget measures risks eroding the foundations of the public services we deliver, which extend far beyond elderly care. They include mental health, domiciliary care, learning disabilities, supported living, and other specialised services. To remain viable, these services require appropriate levels of state funding to meet the varied and growing needs of our communities. While we acknowledge the government’s responsibility to address the £59 billion public deficit, the new Budget measures threaten to deepen an already critical £8.4 billion funding shortfall in our sector. Impact of National Living Wage Increase and Employer Costs from April 2025: Although the increase in the National Living Wage is beneficial for our staff, concurrent Budget changes, specifically the rise in National Insurance contributions and the lowered thresholds are set to drive an unsustainable minimum 9.4% increase in employer costs. For those committed to paying the Real Living Wage and expanding employment opportunities to our future workforce under 21, this impact is projected to soar above 12%. This total far exceeds the £600 million allocated to Local Authorities, the primary commissioners of our services, and who must spread this funding across all their responsibilities under the Care Act 2014. These include support for children’s services as well as financial pressures in other areas including special educational need. Cost Assessment by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR): According to OBR data, this will cost an estimated £800* per employee.However, our analysis suggests that the real impact for Employers is underestimated, potentially exceeding projections by over £1 billion. In summary, this policy risks triggering a cascade of contract surrenders and service reductions, leaving our most overlooked citizens without essential social care and potentially forcing more people onto NHS waiting lists. We urgently call for an immediate review of these measures and for the establishment of exemptions similar to those granted to the NHS. Alternatively, we ask that the Local Government Finance settlement be urgently adjusted to bridge this funding gap. We welcome the opportunity to consult with you to explore the options. The alternative is nothing short of a systematic collapse of community care services across Britain. https://www.homefromhomecare.com
