Making care home security both safe and attractive
Care home security has never been so important. The UK’s population is ageing at a significant rate, with the proportion of those aged 65 and above now making up 18% of our population, says Peter Jackson, MD at Jacksons Fencing. Currently, just under half a million people (4% of the population) in the UK reside in care homes, and with a predicted 24.8% of the population over the ages of 65 by 2050, demand on these buildings is likely to continue to rise. These often-large premises operate all day, every day, and given the constant, essential work carried out by care home staff, the utmost must be done to ensure their wellbeing and protect them from physical attack. Residential care homes often house high volumes of expensive items, including specialist medical and IT equipment, as well as personal possessions belonging to the residents. This makes them hugely attractive targets for thieves looking for an easy loot. So what needs to be considered, and whose responsibility is it to ensure these homes are safe and secure? Fundamentally, the responsibility lies with the facilities managers, care home owners and specifiers to incorporate carefully balanced physical security strategies to protect people and property alike. As demand for care homes rises, fencing, gates, storage enclosures and access control are all crucial components needed to secure this sector, enabling it to operate effectively 365 days a year. Effective access control Care homes should provide restful environments for residents while allowing for the fast-paced environment of busy staff, who are often responsible for the welfare of numerous patients. To ensure this happens, efficient, seamless access is key. All gates and access points around the perimeter must be assessed and considered, and should be installed and controlled centrally or be regularly monitored. Consider the types of vehicles that require access; the appropriate solution should ensure that, where necessary, emergency vehicles can enter and exit the site unhindered. If automated gates are specified, internal operators are highly recommended to remove any visible signs of surveillance on display. When designing pedestrian and vehicular access, gates should be DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) compliant. Crucially, the design of fencing and gates must accommodate rapid evacuation and access for emergency services. In terms of car parks, rising arm barriers or bollards are useful to help keep them secure, controlling access and protecting pedestrians from vehicle traffic. Promoting wellness through aesthetics Creating a welcoming environment is also a priority when specifying care home security. Whilst razor or barbed wire may be effective deterrents to potential trespassers, they can create an intimidating and unwelcoming aesthetic, far removed from the sense of wellbeing these developments should encourage. A solution which offers both visual appeal and high levels of security is vertical bar security fencing or welded mesh panels. They provide strong boundary protection and excellent visibility for surveillance while offering greater protection than other alternatives. For areas requiring a ‘softer’ appearance, such as gardens and outdoor recreational areas, timber fencing is an ideal option. This material has a natural, welcoming appearance and promotes a sense of wellbeing and privacy. It can also provide a high level of noise protection. This makes it well suited for acoustic fencing, which can improve recreational and recovery areas by protecting them from high levels of noise and transforming them into oases of calm ideal for recuperation. Addressing care home security risks Risk assessments are vital to ensuring the correct safety solution is installed. Products accredited by standards including Secured by Design or the Loss Prevention Certification Board’s LPS 1175 are proven to reduce the likelihood of crime. It’s recommended that high fencing is specified to deter climbing attempts and any external storage areas holding waste should be located away from climbing aids such as lamp posts or trees. There are countless options when it comes to specifying effective care home security measures. The requirements for each site will be unique and should be judged on an individual basis. Every home will require a bespoke plan of security structures to protect people, possessions and property while upholding the restful ambience of these crucial establishments.
Boost Infection Control With New 100% Natural Flushable Cleansing Wipes
Using unflushable cleansing wipes in care homes and hospitals is a dangerous false economy that puts lives at risk, warns infection control specialist DDC Dolphin. Low-grade wipes that cannot be macerated or flushed will block drains and damage expensive sluice room equipment – leading to machine downtime and a higher risk of infection. Care home and hospital staff have to separate unflushable wipes from maceratable medical pulp. That means more contact and higher infection risks – in the midst of the Covid-19 second wave. Wastewater companies have been urging people not to throw unflushable wipes down the toilet. The wipes can do untold environmental damage and create huge ‘fatbergs’ that block public sewers. A number of wipes manufacturers had claimed their products were flushable. But – until recently – none were. Earlier this year DDC Dolphin launched the UK’s first 100% natural hygiene wipes that could be flushed, macerated or composted – without harming the planet. DDC Dolphin’s Hygenex biodegradable wipes are specially designed for hospitals, care homes and domiciliary care work. They can be disposed of in bedpan washers, macerators, slop hoppers or toilets – without jamming machines or blocking plumbing. The wet and dry wipes contain no plastic. Unlike other patient care wipes, they are manufactured from 100% non-woven cellulosic material to make them eco-friendly. They can be flushed directly into drains because they disintegrate soon after immersion, breaking down naturally into 100% organic, non-toxic substances. The wipes are fully tested and compliant, passing all seven flushability tests set by the: European Disposables and Nonwovens Association (EDANA) International Nonwovens and Disposables Association (INDA). DDC Dolphin Marketing Director Zoe Allen said: “Trying to save a few pennies on a packet of low-grade wipes is a dangerous – and potentially expensive – false economy because you can’t put them into a macerator. “If you do, you risk blocking the machines for hours or even days. That creates a major infection control risk – and unblocking the machine means extra maintenance costs. “Poor quality wipes also risk blocking drains at your property; yet another infection control risk, along with the added cost of clearing the drains.” There was “no excuse for putting lives at risk by penny-pinching” – especially now the government had: added a further £546 million to the Infection Control Fund for care homes made £300 million available to 117 NHS trusts to improve infection control at A&E units. DDC Dolphin’s Hygenex wipes can be used for a wide range of personal hygiene and surface cleaning tasks. Uses include: Poole-based DDC Dolphin manufactures and exports sluice room equipment across the world, safeguarding patients and clinicians from dangerous infections including superbugs. The company manufactures and supplies medical pulp macerators, incontinence product macerators, bedpan washer disinfectors, UV air purifiers, stainless steel furniture and sluice room consumables. DDC Dolphin is one of only three companies in the world specialising in the manufacture of medical pulp macerators. The machines’ hands-free technology makes it safer to dispose of human waste. For more information, please contact DDC Dolphin Marketing Director Zoe Allen, 01202 731555, info@ddcdolphin.com, https://ddcdolphin.co.uk
Manfred Sauer UK – urology products with a difference
Manfred Sauer UK – Manufacturer of urology products with a difference, often designed by end users with unique features and benefits! Sheaths – b.sure – urinary sheath that is short, strong and quick to fit with extra strong adhesive, available in 9 sizes from 18mm to 35mm with a buffer/comfort zone… Alternatively you can try the p.sure – urinary sheath that is longer in length and customisable which is available in 11 sizes from 18mm to 40mm. ISC Catheters – IQ Cath a uniquely flexible ISC catheter, with a rounded tip which prevents the head from getting caught in the urethra with smooth eyelets for maximum comfort. IQ Cath is available in hydrophilic with an integral saline sachet and ready to use gel coated options. With its flexible tip IQ Cath can often pass strictures where other catheters have failed, try for yourself! Leg Bags – Our leg bags are designed with the user in mind. The unique Bendi bag is designed for wheelchair users or those mainly in a sitting position throughout the day, shaped to contour the bended knee. Our Discreet thigh bag is ideal for people with a small stature or those wanting a discreet bag for sporting and social activities. The Comfort traditional leg bag is available in 600ml and 1000ml to help you go that little bit longer. Nephsys – Our unique nephrostomy system which was designed by Radiology and Urology professionals with the help and support from nephrostomy patients. This secure and comfortable solution for patients from hospital to home. The system consists of a fully adjustable waistbelt with a drainage system with luer lock connectors. This cost-effective system is available on FP10 (NHS) prescriptions from the GP or Nurse Prescriber. No more wasting valuable clinic time arranging for hospital products to be supplied to patients within the community. No more re-siting nephrostomy tubes that have been pulled out by a leg bag which was designed for a urethral catheter slipping down a patient’s leg. Manfred Sauer Care – A FREE personal and professional home delivery service with over 20 years’ experience in dispensing and supplying all manufacturer products which are available on prescription. For more information please call Freephone 0800 999 5596. Come and meet the team at ACA in Bristol on 18th & 19th May on stand 18/19 or visit our website www.manfred-sauer.co.uk alternatively you can contact our Helpline on 01604 595696 to request samples or further information.
Effective time & attendance with biometrics results in staff accountability
The demand for efficient and reliable employees in the sector is essential for a sustainable business model and technology provides expertise to assist desired results. An excellent proven example is the introduction of Biometrics into the care home providing the identification of people based upon their physical characteristics such as their fingerprints, here the person themselves becomes the single source of information for time attendance within the home, and not by what he/she has to input through paper and pen data. Specifically, this creates the expansion of the “paperless” work place. When sheets of daily time Record are provided where the employee records for themselves the day and time they come in and out from office is seen as not reflecting the real record of his/her attendance. Biometrics dispenses with this as employees who come on shift go directly to the biometrics clocking unit and at that moment, the day and time is recorded. That data can never be changed resulting in arriving late or leaving early is recorded and dealt with accordingly. Accountability: Using a physical characteristic rather than simply using a swipe card or PIN, ensures the employee is actually present. This avoids issues such as “buddy punching”, a term used to describe when other employees clock in and out for one another. Efficiency: Using a biometric time and attendance software allows for increased efficiency in multiple areas. Firstly employees don’t have to worry about remembering to bring in a punch card or remembering a PIN, so there is less time spent on recovering lost passwords and manually inputting an employee’s clock-in time. Secondly when it comes to payroll, it is much easier to track in and out times by simply downloading the data from your biometric scanning device, and populating the time sheets on your time and attendance software. Profit: A natural bi-product of increased accountability and efficiency is increased profit. By making employees more accountable to attendance times, you will increase productivity and efficiency and only pay for time actually spent working. Martin Jones Managing Director Fusion Care Solutions Ltd www.fusion4care.com
NuVu Life: Liqui-Life Shakes
It is well-known in the care sector that malnutrition affecting the senior population is an ever-growing concern. Indeed, it is common-knowledge that underweight residents require higher levels of care and are much more likely to be hospitalised. Unfortunately, catering to people who are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition can be a challenge. Our Nu Vu Liqui-Life shake has been developed specifically for residents who struggle to maintain a healthy weight. It can be prepared by any member of staff and takes minimal training. Such products have been around for a while but are generally lower calorie, higher sugar and with lower micronutrients. Nu Vu has been specifically formulated to meet a growing need. Nu Vu – is for people with low MUST scores, convalescents, or those in respite care – needing calories/ nutrients – an optimum package of the most concentrated form, for rapid results. Nu Vu Liqui-Life Shakes provide a low sugar calorific boost outside of 3 meals a day. At NuVu Life, we are strong advocates of the Food First Approach, however, we understand the difficulties of providing sufficient macro and micronutrients to people with reduced appetites via conventional food alone. Supplementation of the Liqui-Life shake alongside the Food First Approach will ensure that vulnerable residents are getting the vital nutrients that they need. One shake per day (made with 200ml of whole milk) will provide 399kcal, 24g of protein, 24g of fat and 100% RI of 14 essential vitamins and minerals. NuVu Life recognise that not all Care requirements are the same and that there is a spectrum both of need and economy. In response to this, we are expanding the range of Nu Vu products:• 50g Original Shake Sachets: Strawberry, Chocolate, Banana, Butterscotch – available in cases of 70 sachets or retail packs of 6.• 2kg Shakes in all flavours – for back of house/ bulk reconstitution. • Unflavoured Shake – for fortification of (eg)Hot Beverages, Soups, Sauces and Mashed potato meals.• Calorie dense Desserts – a great addition to finish any meal. • Thickening powder – to add viscosity to any food, to help with swallowing. The ongoing battle against malnutrition in the Care Sector is daunting. It is our mission to alleviate some of this pressure by developing products that are effective, economical and most importantly are enjoyable to consume.Nu Vu products are developed and manufactured in the UK by Protein Partners Ltd, a subsidiary of County Milk Products Ltd and in collaboration with Nemi Dairy.
Simplifying the specification process with new ironmongery guides
A new guide on architectural ironmongery and specialist applications has been launched for those specifying hardware in care homes. The Specifier’s Guide to Ironmongery for Specialist Applications is one of five guides created by the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) to ensure that anyone involved in the specification of architectural ironmongery has access to the latest, best practice advice. All of the guides are available to download for free from the GAI website. “We have produced these guides to ensure that all construction industry professionals have access to comprehensive guidelines and best practice covering all aspects of architectural ironmongery,” said Douglas Masterson, technical manager at the GAI. “We recognise that specifying architectural ironmongery can be complex, so we’ve pulled together all of the information a specifier will need to ensure the hardware is not only compliant but also performs as expected and suits the environment it is being used in.” The Specifier’s Guide to Ironmongery for Specialist Applications gives information on accessibility regulations that impact the specification of ironmongery including specialist closing devices, door automation, visual contrast and light reflective value (LRV). It also covers more specific hardware solutions such as anti-ligature hardware, anti-microbial door furniture, finger protection and specialist signage, detailing relevant product information, current standards and best practice. There is also a guide to accessibility that outlines the best practice guidelines of accessible and inclusive design. As well as covering all of the relevant ironmongery, the guide includes information on the dimensional guidelines required for lever and pull handles, locks, keys, thumb turns and handrails to be compliant with BS 8300. It also covers specifying ironmongery and signage that has strong visual contrast and LRV to assist those with visual impairments to meet BS 8300 guidelines, as well as legislation that applies specifically to this area of architectural ironmongery. This includes the Equality Act and guidance documents to building regulations on accessibility throughout the UK and Ireland, including Approved Document M. The other Specifier’s Guides cover fire and escape doors, security and access control. All five guides can be downloaded from the GAI website. The GAI is the body that represents the interests of the UK architectural industry. Its qualifications, education and CPD programmes are widely respected in the UK and overseas. Its technical information service is the only specialist service of its kind and provides GAI members with comprehensive advice. To download the guides for free, visit www.gai.org.uk
Podiatry Experts Advise on Footwear for People with Diabetes
The College of Podiatry has worked alongside Cosyfeet in advising which of the company’s extra roomy footwear styles are suitable for people with diabetes. Representatives from the College were invited to Cosyfeet Head Office in Somerset earlier this year to advise on the suitability of each style for people with a diagnosis of diabetes who are vulnerable to foot complications. The College’s Clinical Director, Professor Paul Chadwick, headed up the eminent visiting panel, accompanied by Advanced Diabetic Podiatrist Krishna Gohill and Advanced Biomechanics Podiatrist Martin Nunn. They were responding to Cosyfeet’s request for advice on giving clear and accurate information to customers requiring specialised footwear due to diabetes. “Many of our customers have vulnerable feet and as shoemakers we have a responsibility to offer them optimum footwear for their needs,” says Cosyfeet Managing Director, Andrew Peirce. “Advice from the College has been invaluable in helping us to identify styles suitable for those at risk of foot complications due to diabetes, so we can assist customers in making the best possible purchasing decisions for their health.” Recommendations from the College are being used by Cosyfeet to identify not only footwear styles but also sock and hosiery products which would be suitable for people with diabetes. They are also being used to educate staff in giving the best possible advice to customers, and to assist Cosyfeet’s designers in specifying optimal products for those at risk of foot complications. The College of Podiatry is the Professional Body and Trade Union for registered podiatrists, representing around 10,000 private practitioners, NHS podiatrists, students and retired members. The visiting panel used published research and guidelines to formulate a standardised approach to assess which Cosyfeet styles could be considered appropriate for people with diabetes. It is worth noting that about 70% of people with diabetes are considered ‘low risk’ and providing they follow their GP’s advice, can wear most footwear without risk. The panel’s advice was geared towards those at higher risk who need to take greater care over the footwear choices they make. “The comfort and foot health of our customers is at the forefront of everything we do,” says Andrew Pierce. “We have a duty of care which we take extremely seriously and are deeply grateful to the College for their guidance.” Cosyfeet advise all those at potential risk of foot complications due to diabetes to choose well-fitting shoes, maintain good control of blood glucose and check feet regularly. It’s important to seek the advice of a podiatrist or health professional regarding any concerns about footwear suitability. Cosyfeet stress the importance of running fingers inside any item before wearing to check for anything that may harm. New footwear should be worn for 30 minutes to 1 hour and feet then inspected for pressure marks or irritation. A hand mirror can be useful to help with examination of the entire foot. Wear time can then be gradually increased, with feet inspected regularly. For further information see www.cosyfeet.com/diabeticfriendly or call 01458 449071. There’s Wide Fitting and then there’s Cosyfeet Specially designed to fit and flatter extra wide and swollen feet, Cosyfeet footwear is wider, deeper and roomier than the wide fitting footwear you’ll find on the high street. We are a small, caring company with 36 years’ experience of fitting swollen feet and legs. Our diabetic-friendly footwear has been reviewed for suitability by the College of Podiatry and over 11,000 healthcare professionals recommend Cosyfeet footwear to their patients. Cosyfeet is a member of the Healthy Footwear Guide and offers a No Quibble Money Back Guarantee and free UK returns, so that customers can order with confidence.
Manage supplies of catheter accessories with Ugo 4 Weeks
Optimum Medical has developed Ugo 4 Weeks to help give care homes more control over supplies of catheter drainage and fixation products. We understand that there are unique challenges regarding the control of these products in the care home environment. Some of the following scenarios may sound familiar: What is Ugo 4 Weeks? Ugo 4 Weeks is a 4-week supply of catheter drainage and fixation products, all contained within one box and available on prescription. Each box contains: How can Ugo 4 Weeks help care homes? To receive free samples of each product contained within Ugo 4 Weeks, please email marketing@optimummedical.co.uk and we’ll send you a sample box. Alternatively, to find out more, visit www.optimummedical.co.uk
Think JustGloves when you’re thinking of ways to reduce expenditure
Healthcare environments face some of the biggest challenges of any industry when looking at cost reduction. Maintaining exceptional levels of care in the face of tight budget constraints is extremely difficult, even for the largest of care providers. JustGloves is helping the UK healthcare industry to reduce outgoings by supplying top quality disposable clothing, including medical grade disposable gloves at arguably the lowest prices available anywhere online. How we achieve our low prices Part of the Value Products Group, JustGloves has a team of skilled purchasers who scour the globe for top suppliers and manufacturers of the most popular glove types and brands. We build longstanding relationships with these suppliers and purchase in bulk to achieve the best possible prices, that we then pass on to our customers. Our extensive range for the healthcare industry The JustGloves website offers every type of glove imaginable, including disposable medical grade nitrile, vinyl and latex gloves, specialist reusable gloves and eco-friendly biodegradable options—to name but a few. In recent years, we have also added products to our range that complement our healthcare gloves. This includes items such as disposable aprons, disposable face masks, overshoes, paper disposables and infection control products. Added benefits You may be purchasing at low prices, but you can be sure you won’t be receiving a low-cost service. We have a dedicated team of sales support representatives available on the telephone, email and webchat to assist you every step of the way. Free delivery is available on all orders over £65.00 to UK mainland delivery addresses, and orders placed before 4.30pm will be delivered the very next working day. As with all Value Products companies, JustGloves also offers established UK businesses the opportunity to set up an account with 30-days instant credit. This allows you to get the items you want exactly when you need them. By setting up an account with us, you can also view invoices, repeat orders and manage your details easily online. Our 30-day no quibble guarantee is another benefit there to give you peace of mind. This means that if for any reason there is an issue with your order, there will be no issue to you. Don’t take our word for it Every customer that orders from JustGloves is invited to submit an independent review about their experience on either eKomi or Trustpilot. We are extremely proud to have been awarded the eKomi Gold Seal of Approval as a trusted supplier with an average score of 4.9/5 from over 12,200 reviews, all of which have been verified by Google. We are also rated as Excellent on Trustpilot. It’s time to switch Our team would really like to start saving you money on your gloves and disposables. To view our full range and place your first order, visit www.justgloves.co.uk, email sales@justgloves.co.ukor call us on 0808 1699 117. Thank you for taking the time to read about us and we hope to hear from you soon. From, The JustGloves Team
