Prevent illness in your care home
Working to prevent illness and infection within a care home is no simple task. It takes a keen eye to identify when risks may develop, and then take effective action. Even more important is the ability to take pre-emptive measures when infection is not yet present. To understand just how pivotal these actions are, professionals should realise the speed at which common infections can spread through the care home. It is then possible to plan for actions to be taken when an infection risk is identified. Understanding transmission The speed at which viral infections can overwhelm care services was seen first-hand with the Coronavirus pandemic. The main factors for this included missed opportunities for diagnosis, care services being generally under pressure, delays in outbreak control measures, and the location and proximity of residents. Whilst Coronavirus is not as big an issue as it once was, the pandemic made clear the prominent concerns for potential future outbreaks. Transmission can occur in many different ways – physical contact, contamination of bodily fluids, contamination of everyday objects, and airborne infection, amongst others – depending on the type of infection. Each will require unique actions to protect all residents and staff. In many cases, preventative measures such as good ventilation and regular surface cleaning will be preferred, but just as important is the ability to react carefully once an illness or risk of it is identified in an area of the care home. To minimise infection spread, it’s imperative to identify and isolate the source quickly. The earlier an outbreak is acknowledged, reported and acted upon, the fewer residents and staff will become ill. In the earliest stages of an infection outbreak, the source could be limited to one area, room or patient in a care home, which can then define the response measures employed. The lifespan of an infection The viability of airborne respiratory viruses has previously been under-recognised due to a lack of understanding about the production and movement of contaminated aerosols. It is now known that they can travel greater than six feet, remaining infectious in the air from minutes to hours at a time. Similarly, many types of airborne infection remain a threat once settling on inanimate surfaces, or abiotic surfaces, depending on the type of infection and the surface material. Bacteria can thrive and remain an active threat for hours, days, or even weeks on an abiotic surface. Influenza virus, for example, can present a risk for up to four weeks, but severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) Coronavirus (CoV) – the virus that was subject to an infamous outbreak between 2002-2004 – can remain infective for just nine days.6 This has several implications for the care home team and blurs the line between reactive and preventative infection control. Comprehensive cleaning of the care home, especially frequented areas, is paramount to minimise the risk of bacteria lying in wait to develop an infection. Once an infection is observed and the care home team takes appropriate action – whether supporting a resident with anti-viral pharmaceuticals or isolating an individual until they have recovered – the process of surface cleaning and air ventilation should be in full swing. Even once the infection is thought to no longer be a threat, optimal infection control practices should never cease. Ultimate protection Throughout the care home, best practices will include effective hand hygiene measures, even when gloves are used as PPE. Staff should also observe the safe disposal of sharps and general cleaning of the care home to the highest possible standards. This should be carried out regularly with appropriate surface cleansing adjuncts. The solutions chosen to meet each requirement to prevent illness, must be high-quality and reliable. Initial Medical provides a range of products to support care home staff. These include the High Level Surface Disinfectant Cleaners, VIRUSKILLER™ Air Purifiers and the UltraProtect™ Hand Sanitiser. The latter is an alcohol-free hand sanitiser that kills 99.99% of germs including Swine Flu, MRSA and Norovirus and is effective against Coronavirus.* It is dermatologically proven not to dry out or crack the skin, supporting care home staff and their residents when working to prevent and minimise the spread of infection. Care homes are especially susceptible to the spread of infection due to the close proximity of residents and staff, but to prevent illness, many steps can be taken to protect each individual. Staff should confidently implement cleaning policies that work to eliminate harmful threats even before they are identified. To find out more, get in touch at 0808 304 7411 or visit the website today www.initial.co.uk/medical
Rise in older people looking for a care home in January
Older people are nearly a third more likely to go into a care home after spending time with their family over the festive season, according to new data released by carehome.co.uk, the leading care home reviews site. Over the last three years, carehome.co.uk, which helps people search for a care home, has seen a dramatic increase in traffic in January, compared with figures in December. In January 2024, the number of visitors to their site surged by 32% with over 375,000 extra visitors to its website compared with the month before. In 2023, the number of visitors to their site rose by over 342,000 and in 2022, by just over 258,000. The festive season often acts as a turning point, as families come together for a longer period and notice a decline in the health, mobility and independence of their loved ones. The emotional and physical strain of caregiving, coupled with a rise in loneliness and illness during the winter months, drives many families to look for full-time residential care for their loved ones at the start of the new year. Data from carehome.co.uk shows the average fee for people paying for their own residential care in the UK is £1,160 a week. So it is not surprising that the complexities of funding residential care and uncertainty over how families will pay for it, also adds further challenges to those looking for care and making these difficult decisions in January. Additional data from carehome.co.uk also shows that out of over 38,441 care seekers who made care enquiries between 1 November 2023 and 31 October 2024, over a fifth (21%) of people seeking care did not know how their care would be funded. As few as 16% reported they were able to access local authority funding. These figures reveal the emotional and financial pressures families face after the holidays, as they seek to secure the best care for their loved ones in the face of rising costs and limited funding options. Sue Learner, editor of carehome.co.uk, the leading reviews site for care homes, said: “Spending time with family is a wonderful part of the festive season, but it can also bring to light the harsh realities of ageing. Over Christmas, relatives often spend extended time with their older family members and for many, this can be the first time they notice changes in mobility, memory, or overall well-being. These realisations can be difficult and emotional, prompting tough conversations about the best way forward. “The surge in traffic we experience every January reflects the challenges many families face and shows the huge value of having access to quality care home reviews and care information to help people navigate a complex social care system.”
Yorkshire-based Care 24-7
Yorkshire-based Care 24-7 is driving towards a greener future with the launch of its new hybrid car fleet. This innovative move ensures its dedicated teams can reach clients across Yorkshire and the North East quickly and efficiently while minimising their environmental impact. Care 24-7 is revolutionising dementia care with a groundbreaking approach. As the first UK company affiliated with The Contented Dementia Trust, they’re pioneering the use of the SPECAL method, which treats dementia as a disability and works positively with it. “We’re not just providing care; we’re transforming lives,” says Karen Thornton, co-founder and Director of Care 24-7. “Our partnership with The Contented Dementia Trust and the launch of our specialised dementia care service, Flourish, demonstrate our unwavering commitment to providing a sustainable, dementia specific and fully personalised dementia care. By investing in hybrid cars, we’re ensuring we can deliver this exceptional care in an environmentally responsible way.” Rooted in the Community, focused on the Future Care 24-7 has been a cornerstone of homecare in the community since 2001, providing compassionate and reliable home care services. This deep-rooted local experience, combined with their forward-thinking approach to dementia care and sustainability, makes them a truly unique provider in the region. What Makes Care 24-7 Different? · Flourish Respite Care at Home for People Living with Dementia: A specialised service designed to support individuals with dementia to live fulfilling lives in the comfort of their own homes. It provides respite care for families and caregivers, offering much-needed breaks while ensuring that their loved ones receive the highest quality care. · The Comfort Plan: Personalised Home Care for All Personalised in-person care and support packages tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. This includes assistance with daily living activities, medication management, companionship, and specialised dementia care, including assistive technology from Isaac Care. · Isaac Care Technology: Integration of cutting-edge assistive technology to enhance safety and well-being, including GPS tracking, geo-fencing, and two-way communication. Why This Matters to Yorkshire and the North East:With dementia rates soaring in these regions, Care 24-7’s innovative approach offers a beacon of hope. By combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate, person-centred care, they’re empowering individuals with dementia to live fulfilling lives and providing much-needed support for families. This is particularly crucial in areas like Yorkshire and the North East, which are experiencing a growing aging population. Rory O’Gara, Chief Operating Officer at Servisource, the parent company of Care 24-7, adds, “Care 24-7 continues to set new standards in the home care sector. Their dedication to innovation and client-focused services, particularly their pioneering work in dementia care with the SPECAL method and assistive technology is truly inspiring. The investment in a hybrid fleet further solidifies their position as a leader in sustainable and responsible care.” About Care 24-7:Care 24-7 is a leading provider of personalised home care services, dedicated to helping individuals maintain their independence and quality of life. With a focus on compassion, innovation, and community, Care 24-7 offers a wide range of services, including dementia care, respite care, and palliative. Based in Bradford, Leeds, Redcar, and Middlesbrough. About Servisource:Servisource is a global leader in workforce solutions, providing recruitment, staffing, and managed services across various sectors. With a strong commitment to quality and compliance, Servisource helps organisations find the right people, with the right skills and knowledge, in the right place and achieve their business objectives. https://care247.ltd.uk
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
