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.”
Strength is so important for our later years
Orchard Manor Care Home explain why strength is so important for our later years As we age, maintaining our mobility and independence is something we all value deeply. The good news is that staying active and supporting muscle and joint strength can make a big difference in helping us—and our loved ones—stay strong and independent for years to come. Jamila Faerbe, General Manager at Orchard Manor care home, part of Danforth Care Homes, and physiotherapist, Fikri Fikriev discuss why it’s important to keep mobile, and what you can do now – at any age – to get started. Why is mobility and strength so important for our later years? “Having good mobility allows older people to retain independence for longer, meaning they can safely complete tasks such as walking, cooking, using the bathroom, and getting dressed,” says Jamila, from the care home in Surrey. “Mobility is also tied to cognitive health, as it can affect how often you leave the house, and therefore your engagement and interaction with your external environment and other people. Keeping your independence depends on your mind and your body, so it’s important to do what you can to nourish both.” says Jamila. “As we age, naturally the joints can become stiffer, and our muscles lose strength,” adds Fikri from Physiotherapy Matters. “The rate of muscle mass loss depends on age and lifestyle, but we gradually begin to lose muscle mass from around our 30s-40s. This process can pick up at 65-80 years old. The rates vary; however, it can reach as high as 8% muscle mass loss per decade. “This can have an effect on your mobility and energy levels, hence why it’s essential to have a balanced routine that helps to preserve strength and flexibility as we age,” says Fikri. “Age is just a number” “Physiotherapists and fitness instructors regularly come into our care homes to help our residents with their mobility, holding gentle exercise classes like seated yoga,” says Jamila. “This is not only fun but helps strengthen their muscles and joints. “We have residents who are nearly 100 who are out gardening or walking in the grounds nearly every day. Age is just a number – a lot of their mobility is testament to how they have looked after themselves over the course of their lives and how we support them to stay fit. “It’s worth giving your body a head-start and build the habit of keeping your core muscles and joints strong now, whatever your age is!” 4 exercises to stay mobile, strong and independent as you age “Perform the below exercises at least 3-4 times per week – consistency is key,” says Fikri. “Start nice and easy and progress gradually, and don’t forget to take regular breaks. Stay hydrated, increase protein intake in your diet with simple ingredients like eggs, and wear supportive and comfortable footwear. “Always consult your GP, physiotherapist, or personal trainer if you have chronic conditions, limited mobility, injuries or if you are unsure how to progress/regress your exercise routine.” 1. Two leg bridge “Bridge exercises and hip thrusts can improve back pain, as well as hip, hamstring, and glute strength. They also help with stretching the hip flexors that tend to get tighter with prolonged sitting,” says Fikri. “Additionally, bridge exercises can help strengthen the core and pelvic floor. This is very important, especially in women who struggle with bladder control, such as older adults, after pregnancy, or due to stress. “After the basic bridge, you can progress towards single leg bridge, or even further into hip thrusts (with or without weights). There are lots of bridge and hip thrust variations to pick from.” 2. Wall push-ups “Push-up exercises are a great way to improve posture and upper body strength, such as in your back, chest, and your core. As well as this, they help to improve heart health, lose body weight and fat, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol. “You can progress towards an incline push-up on a countertop or table, then to a higher difficulty with push-ups on the floor,” says Fikri 3. Sit to stand/squat “Sit to stand exercises, squats and lunges are important functional exercises to improve the ability to do daily activities and maintain independence. This includes sitting down or standing up, climbing stairs, and improving balance and strength in the lower body.” says Fikri. “From sitting to standing exercises, you can progress towards squats (with or without support), and then further difficulty lunges (with or without weights).” 4. Calf raises “Calf raises offer several benefits, including improved balance, increased ankle stability and mobility, and enhanced strength,” says Fikri. “They also improve lower limb blood circulation, which reduces sprains and helps prevent falls. “Moreover, calf raises increases Achilles tendon resilience which can reduce the risk of tendinopathy, which can have a negative impact on walking and running. You can then progress towards single calf raises, and into jumping calf raises (plyometric). All can be done with or without additional weights.”
Babies ‘bring joy’ to care home residents
A Durham care home has partnered with local baby development class, Lullababy Durham, to host monthly sessions with babies for its residents. Intergenerational activities bring together younger and older generations to create meaningful experiences that benefit all involved. The DurhamGate Care Home hosts regular baby and toddler sessions designed to bring generations together through music, movement, and shared experiences. Providing care, community, and connection, the initiative Lullababy Durham, led by Cheryl Armstrong, delivers interactive sessions that encourage residents to get involved, waving ribbons, singing along and dancing with the little ones. With a huge impact on both older people and young families, Lisa Tones, Care Manager at The DurhamGate Care Home, explains four benefits of intergenerational activities: Boosts mental and emotional wellbeing “Intergenerational activities often spark conversations, unlock memories, and create connection. For older adults, these activities can improve mental and emotional wellbeing by boosting their mood and keeping their minds active. It’s incredibly heartwarming to see how our residents light up during these sessions. The feedback from these sessions has been fantastic, which is why we’ve made them a regular event so that the positive impact is long-lasting, not just a one-off.” Promotes meaningful learning and interaction “What’s particularly special about these visits is the mutual exchange of experiences and skills. While the babies benefit from sensory play and new stimuli, older people enjoy meaningful interactions that remind them of their own parenting days. They also get the chance to share advice and stories with the parents, creating a three-way learning experience. Intergenerational sessions like this aren’t just heartwarming, they’re a powerful way to pass on knowledge across generations.” Connecting with the community “Connection is key, especially later in life. Intergenerational activities provide a great opportunity to socialise with others outside of their own age group, helping older adults feel valued and connected to the wider community. For some of our residents, especially those whose families live further away and aren’t able to visit regularly, it’s like a second family. The visits from the babies and parents bring so much happiness to the residents and have led to lifelong bonds.” Encourages physical activity “As we get older, mobility can become more limited and staying active can become more challenging, so incorporating movement into fun activities is a great way to support physical wellbeing. Activities such as dancing, light movement, and games can be adapted so everyone can take part, regardless of age or ability. It’s a fun and inclusive way to keep moving, and many of our residents don’t even realise they’re exercising.” Cheryl Armstrong, Class Leader at Lullababy Durham comments, “I started this class to connect generations. The residents don’t always have family nearby, so this gives them a chance to see and interact with babies each week. It’s gentle exercise and emotional connection all rolled into one.” The classes also offer support for new parents, who describe the care home in Durham as a warm, welcoming space. The mums always comment on how lovely the home is,” Cheryl adds. “It’s become a real community. Residents and parents now know each other by name. It’s magic.” Resident at The DurhamGate Care Home, Mike Holmes, added, “My late wife and I fostered many children and babies, and it brings me so much joy to still get to spend time with youngsters. It really brightens my day.” Intergenerational activities are a key part of life at The DurhamGate Care Home. Alongside the regular Lullababy sessions, the care home has also recently welcomed pupils from King Street Primary School to spend time with residents.
