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Imagine a world where you need help with daily tasks, but support isn't readily available. A world where hospitals are overcrowded, and social care is underfunded and understaffed. This isn't a dystopian nightmare; it's the reality facing many people in the UK today. A recent report by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) paints a concerning picture of the state of care in England. The report highlights a growing demand for social care, with a significant number of people not receiving the timely support they desperately need. This lack of provision is putting a strain on the entire care system, from hospitals to residential care homes. One of the most alarming findings of the report is the growing inequality in care provision. People with dementia are particularly vulnerable, often facing a postcode lottery of care quality. The CQC has pledged to develop a cross-sector dementia strategy, but the question remains: will it be enough? The impact of underfunded social care is felt not just by those who need it most, but also by their loved ones. The report shines a light on the everyday struggles of unpaid carers, many of whom are facing mounting pressures. These carers are the backbone of the care system, yet they often feel unsupported and overwhelmed. Horizons Homecare is committed to providing high-quality care to our clients. We believe that everyone deserves to live with dignity and independence, regardless of their age or condition. Horizons Homecare also believes that the current standard of care is at an all time low and the time for improvement is now. More funding is required from central Government and more of that money needs to be distributed to the local authorities with an aim to raise the standard pricing structure because it just isn't enough. The findings of the CQC report make it clear that the entire care system is in urgent need of reform. We urge the government to take immediate action to address the funding crisis in social care. We also call for a renewed focus on equality, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need. Together, we can create a better future for those who need care the most.

As we approach autumn, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS have released updated guidance for the COVID-19 vaccination campaign for 2024. The vaccine rollout, starting in October, will prioritize individuals aged 65 and over, residents in adult care homes, and those aged six months and over who are in clinical risk groups. These groups are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, with the option to receive the flu vaccine simultaneously. The importance of vaccination within the social care sector cannot be overstated, especially as the colder months approach. For those working in or receiving social care, the risks posed by COVID-19 remain significant, making it vital to stay protected through vaccination. Social care providers are urged to actively encourage vaccine uptake among both staff and clients. This effort will not only protect the most vulnerable but also help maintain essential care services during the winter months when healthcare systems are traditionally under more strain. In addition to promoting vaccinations, care providers should reinforce strong infection control measures. Even with vaccination, preventing the spread of COVID-19 within care environments remains crucial. Providers are also encouraged to review and update their business continuity plans to ensure they can respond effectively to potential disruptions caused by the pandemic during the winter season. The vaccination program is part of a broader strategy to safeguard public health and support the resilience of health and social care services. By taking proactive steps, including vaccination, infection control, and robust planning, we can help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 in the months ahead. For more detailed information and guidance, visit the Homecare Association's official page (https://www.homecareassociation.org.uk/resource/covid-19-autumn-vaccination-guidance.html). Links: vaccination booking service autumn vaccination guidance COVID-19: Green Book, Chapter 14a

A New Report Highlights Potential to Fund 10,000 Additional Full-Time Carers by 2035 A groundbreaking report by health-tech company Lilli reveals that adopting lifestyle monitoring technology in social care could free up to two million bed days across the UK, providing much-needed relief for the NHS and social care systems. The report, titled “From Passive to Proactive: How Monitoring Technology Can Help to Solve the Health and Social Care Crisis,” estimates that this innovation could save the NHS a staggering £1.2 billion. Lilli’s research draws on data from various local authorities already implementing AI-driven monitoring technology to address the increasing care demands and ongoing social care crisis. This technology, which monitors daily behaviours such as movement, eating habits, and bathroom use, offers a new approach to care—alerting professionals to significant changes in health before they escalate to the point of requiring hospitalisation. Reducing Hospital Admissions and Preventing Crises One of the critical areas highlighted in the report is the potential to reduce hospital admissions related to Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Early detection through lifestyle monitoring can help prevent UTIs from advancing to more serious stages, which often result in emergency hospital care. The report also underscores the importance of improving hospital discharge processes. With earlier discharges enabled by the technology, Lilli estimates the NHS could free up 2.3 million additional bed days, generating savings sufficient to fund the salaries of 2,000 nurses over the next decade. A Vision for 2035: Freeing Up Carer Time and Improving Care Capacity Looking ahead to 2035, Lilli’s analysis indicates that widespread adoption of this technology could free up to 94 million hours of carer time, creating the capacity to provide care for an additional 18,000 people. By enabling longer periods of independent living at home, councils could save up to £3 billion—enough to fund 10,000 additional care workers. Moreover, the report highlights the significant health benefits for individuals facing delayed discharges. Prolonged hospital stays often lead to an increased risk of infections, adverse drug reactions, and readmissions. By reducing these delays, the technology would not only alleviate pressure on the NHS but also improve health outcomes for thousands of patients. A Call to Embrace Technology in Social Care Kelly Hudson, CEO of Lilli, emphasised the urgency of embracing technology in the sector: "Right now, the people who need care are not getting the help that they should, and the problem will only get worse as the population ages. The numbers in this report speak for themselves. The savings and productivity figures highlight the profound difference that an investment in technology now would have, not just on the system, but on the lives of people up and down the country." Real-Time Impact on Local Authorities Local councils in Islington, Nottingham, and Reading are already using Lilli’s lifestyle monitoring technology, demonstrating the practical benefits of this approach. Rebecca Andrew, Service Improvement Manager from Nottinghamshire County Council, shared her experience: "The rollout of remote monitoring technology across Nottinghamshire allows our social care staff access to real-time data, providing insights into a person’s behaviour over time. This helps us build a clear picture of their needs and allows us to act quickly, preventing crises and reducing ambulance call outs and hospital admissions." As the report indicates, the integration of this technology into social care systems could be transformative, offering a sustainable solution to the growing pressures on care services. By acting now, councils and health providers can future-proof their services, ensuring better care for vulnerable populations while easing the financial burden on the NHS and local authorities.

Horizons Homecare, an innovative care provider known for its compassionate and reliable service, is excited to announce its Grand Opening Event. The celebration will take place on Saturday, 20th July at the new Blackpool location: 11 Birley Street, Blackpool FY1 1EG, formerly known as 'The Travel Lounge'. The whole community is invited to join in for a day of festivities, including free cakes and nibbles. The aim of the day is to get to know the local community, local business owners and local health & social care professionals and start building collaborative working relationships. Having officially opened the doors in May 2024, Horizons Homecare is already making positive waves in the local social care sector. Their mission is to deliver care that prioritizes continuity, reliability, and a personal touch that sometimes feels as though it can be missing from peoples care. By assigning regular carers at regular times, the provider ensures that their clients receive consistent, high-quality care from familiar faces "because having loving friendships is what makes the world a better place" says James Galler - Director of Horizons Homecare. The husband-and-wife team, James and Holly Galler, are passionate about transforming the care experience. "No longer will people have to put up with random carers turning up to their door, no longer will people have to worry about the time they will arrive, and no longer will they have uncertainty," says James Galler. Horizons Homecare is committed to creating long-lasting relationships with clients, providing peace of mind for clients and loved ones through dependable and reliable care. The provider has settled for it's office in Blackpool because they are passionate about seeing the town centre of Blackpool thrive on new exciting and innovative businesses. James Galler also mentions "The decision to open in the town centre was because we love Blackpool and seeing the high street thrive is really exciting, but it is also a perfect central location for where we wish to cover for our care services. Being in Blackpool allows us to cover every town with an 'FY' post code without having our care staff having to travel hours each day". Horizons Homecare is built on a foundation of family-oriented values and kindness. "We believe we can teach people the skills required to care, but we can't teach someone how to be kind and caring," says Holly Galler, co-founder of Horizons Homecare. This philosophy guides our hiring process, ensuring that every member of our team embodies the compassion and dedication we hold dear. Event Details Date: Saturday, 20th July Time: From 11:00am to 17:00pm Location: 11 Birley Street, Blackpool FY1 1EG The local business looks forward to welcoming you to the Grand Opening Event. Feel free to come meet the team, learn more about their services, and enjoy some delicious treats. RSVP: Facebook Event Horizons Homecare is dedicated to providing superior social care services in Blackpool, the Fylde coast and Wyre. With a focus on continuity of care, punctuality, and genuine compassion, we strive to enhance the quality of life for our clients. For more information, please visit www.horizonshomecare.co.uk  or call us at 01253 202 922.

Can high-quality care solve hospital discharge problems? In a detailed analysis by the Homecare Association, Horizons Homecare presents a comprehensive view on the state of homecare during hospital discharge, underscoring the indispensable role of private care providers. The findings align with the Homecare Association (HCA)'s recent report, “ Expecting the Unexpected: Homecare Providers’ Views of Hospital Discharge, ” which surveyed numerous leading care providers. The report reveals significant contention at the point of hospital discharge, particularly when NHS capacity pressures lead to early discharges without adequate specialist support, medication, and mental health services in place. This situation has put immense pressure on care providers, with 67% of respondents reporting increased demands to accept patients discharged quickly, despite over two-thirds having unused capacity. Private homecare such as Horizons Homecare emerges as a critical solution to these challenges. It offers a client-centered approach that can relieve the strained relationship between commissioning authorities and care providers, making the system more efficient. Horizons Homecare emphasizes the importance of tailored, compassionate care, which is increasingly sought after. According to the report by the Homecare Association, 34% of respondents noted a rise in enquiries for private or self-funded care over the past six months, indicating a shift towards private care due to its flexibility and speed. Much of the report also focuses on the state of commissioned care. Commissioned providers, those contracted to the NHS or local authorities, face stagnating fee rates and declining direct communication with patients and their families over discharge care plans. This has led to dissatisfaction among both patients and providers alike. Horizons Homecare addresses these issues by championing rapid care assessments and implementation. Recognizing the urgency of support post-hospital, they typically assess and offer a care package within a few days of first contact. This approach ensures that clients receive the necessary support during the vulnerable post-hospital period, whether for short-term or long-term care needs. Assessment delays are a major challenge identified by the report, contributing significantly to hospital discharge delays and impacting ongoing patient care. Horizons Homecare ’s commitment to rapid assessments aims to mitigate these delays, enhancing patient outcomes and supporting the HCA’s calls for comprehensive discharge care planning. Another critical finding is the rising incidence of avoidable hospital readmissions, with 40% of respondents noting this trend. Issues such as premature discharge and lack of access to specialist support services, including mental health and physiotherapy, are major contributors. Horizons Homecare ’s tailored care approach aims to reduce re-admissions by ensuring regular meals, sleep, medication, and opportunities for social engagement and community involvement through their regular social client parties/events. The innovative events regularly hosted by Horizons Homecare exemplifies this approach. It connects clients with community activities and interests, supported by trained carers, thereby addressing not just physical health but also social and mental wellbeing. This holistic view of care aligns with the report’s suggestion that comprehensive support can significantly reduce hospital readmissions. In conclusion, Horizons Homecare highlights the potential of private homecare to address the issues faced by commissioned care providers and improve overall care outcomes. By focusing on tailored, client-centered care, they aim to provide a sustainable solution that enhances long-term independence and wellbeing for patients. How can Hospitals Discharge Coordinators Refer to Horizons Homecare? Fill in our Care Enquiry form here Email our branch at: Blackpool@horizonshomecare.co.uk Call the office: 01253 202 922 What does a Hospital Discharge look like with Horizons Homecare? Our process for Hospital Discharge admissions are completed via an appointment/rapid-assessment with the professionals involved in a patients care and the patient themselves whilst in Hospital. If a package of care is agreed, the Coordinators will complete a care plan and assign the patient their very own care team within a couple of days and liaise with Hospital Discharge Coordinators to get the client home to a safe, holistic care package.

What costs are typically involved? When searching for care services to support yourself or your loved ones, it's crucial to understand both the services offered and the associated costs. While exploring care options, it's important to consider all financial aspects as each provider and care home can vary greatly. Here are some examples from some homecare providers: Higher charges for 'peak' time care visits Higher charges at weekends Charging for an hour, but only providing 10-30 minutes of care Advertising 'from' prices, but charging more when the care service involves certain aspects of care such as personal care Travel charges in addition to the normal rates How much is Care at Home? The Homecare Association’s new calculation for the Minimum Price for Homecare in England is £28.53 per hour, effective from April 2024, when the UK’s statutory National Living Wage increases. This can be viewed here. Source: Homecareassociation.org.uk How much is a Care Home? The cost of a care home varies according to where you live in the UK. If you are paying for your own care, the average weekly cost of a residential care home in the UK is £1,160, while average fees at a nursing home cost £1,410 per week. For self-funders, the monthly average cost of residential care is £4,640, which is £60,320 a year. Those paying for their own nursing care in a care home an expect to pay an average of £5,640 a month, equating to £73,320 a year. The costs do vary from each care home and our research indicates it can start from £980 to £1645 per week for residential care. Nursing care is more expensive than residential care and care homes that offer specialist care, such as dementia care, tend to charge a higher fee. Source: CareHome.co.uk (here) Navigating the complexities of funding care can be challenging, and it may not always be clear where to find the necessary information. At Horizons Homecare, we provide comprehensive guidance to help you understand the various financial support options available to you. Our resources are designed to simplify this complex area and assist you in making informed decisions about funding your care. For more information and support, Contact us. Funding and financial support Investigating your options for government financial support through your local authority social services, charity organisations or NHS funded care is a great place to start. There are a few options for receiving financial support (if you qualify). You may be entitled to funding via your local authority. Anyone who requests public funded social care must undergo a needs assessment and a means test, and only those with highest needs and the lowest financial assets are likely to receive support. However, we have found that the assessments change over time and it is more likely that you will receive funding depending on the amount of money and/or assets you have. For more information, please contact your local authority or search your local authority's website. Another option is funding via the NHS (Continuing Health Care). To qualify for Continuing Healthcare funding, it must be proven that you have a 'primary health need'. This means that your care requirements are primarily for healthcare, rather than social or personal care needs. This is usually judged via a two-step assessment process; a Checklist followed by a Full Assessment. A full assessment is usually triggered when an individual 'passes' a screening stage using the Continuing Healthcare Checklist. The assessment will be coordinated by the CHC team at your local NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB), or a third party who have been commissioned to do this on their behalf. No need to panic, this is something we can help you access when you are one of our clients. Although the processes can take a long time, if accepted you should also be entitled to backdated payments from when your care started. How much do Horizons Homecare charge? Our goal is to make the financial side of care as easy as possible to manage. We will almost certainly be the cheaper alternative to a Care Home and in most cases, we are the cheapest provider when it comes to higher quality care in your own home! Our competitors charge between £32 - £39 per hour, and we are definitely cheaper than that! Horizons Homecare charges explained: We don't have any 'hidden costs' No higher rates for 'peak' times We don't charge more for weekend visits We don't charge you mileage (unless travel is required during a care visit) We will never charge you for a full visit and stay for a lesser amount of time. Speak to Horizons Homecare - We are only a phone call away! Enquire We'll visit you Care starts It is that simple.

Horizons Homecare, a new and innovative care provider, has officially opened its doors in Blackpool this May. Located at 11 Birley Street, Blackpool FY1 1EG, in the former premises of 'The Travel Lounge', Horizons Homecare is set to revolutionize the way social care is delivered in the community. Horizons Homecare distinguishes itself by offering regular carers at regular times, ensuring that clients receive consistent and reliable care. The company's unique employment philosophy focuses on hiring individuals who embody family-oriented values and traits of kindness. “We believe we can teach people the skills required to care, but we can't teach someone how to be kind and caring,” says Holly Galler, co-founder of Horizons Homecare. The husband-and-wife team, James and Holly Galler, bring a deep passion for helping people in the right way. "No longer will people have to put up with random carers turning up to their door, no longer will people have to worry about the time they will arrive, and no longer will they have uncertainty" says Mr Galler. Horizons Homecare is committed to building long-lasting relationships with clients through continuity of care and a personal touch that has been missing in the industry for too long. "It can be normal for a carer to be taken away from a client if they are deemed to be getting 'too close,'" explains Holly Galler. "We don't operate like that. We want our team to become close to our clients – after all, if you care for them like you care for your own mother or father, you are going to provide an unparalleled level of service." James Galler, who oversees the operational aspects of Horizons Homecare, emphasizes the company's commitment to affordability. "Our market research indicates that our high-quality care competitors charge between £32 and £39 an hour. We can guarantee we are cheaper." By offering exceptional care at competitive prices, Horizons Homecare aims to make quality home care more accessible to more families in Blackpool. Mr Galler added “We opened Horizons Homecare with a vision to provide a service we could be proud of. A service that doesn’t operate on a task basis, a service that stays for the length of the visit. No more rushing in and rushing out. We want our clients and their families to have complete peace of mind. We know how daunting it can be wondering if the carers have turned up, who turned up and whether they stayed or not” About Horizons Homecare Horizons Homecare is dedicated to providing superior social care services in Blackpool. With a focus on continuity of care, punctuality, and genuine compassion, the company strives to enhance the quality of life for its clients. For more information, please visit: www.horizonshomecare.co.uk or call them on 01253202922.

Blackpool, UK – May 29, 2024 – Horizons Homecare, a pioneering care provider known for its continuity of care and compassionate service, is thrilled to announce a special offer for new clients. All new clients who begin their care services in June or July will receive the exclusive 'Family' discount, which will be applied forever. A Commitment to Affordable, High-Quality Care As part of their ongoing commitment to making high-quality home care accessible, Horizons Homecare's 'Family' discount aims to provide significant savings for new clients. This permanent discount underscores the company's dedication to supporting families and individuals in the Blackpool community by offering reliable and affordable care services. Need Care? A New Provider? Some Help Around the Home? Horizons Homecare believes in treating every client like family. With this offer, new clients can experience the unmatched level of service that comes from regular carers at regular times, promoting a sense of trust and continuity. The company's philosophy is rooted in finding carers who have family-oriented values and kindness traits, ensuring that every client receives care with compassion and respect. Why Choose Horizons Homecare? Continuity of Care: Regular carers who understand your needs and routines. Punctuality: Reliable and timely service to fit your schedule. Family Values: Carers who treat you like their own family. Affordable Rates: Competitive pricing as standard, and with the new 'Family' discounts during June and July of 2024, the company will also be amongst the cheapest. About Horizons Homecare Horizons Homecare is dedicated to offering superior social care services across Blackpool and beyond. With a focus on continuity of care, punctuality, and genuine compassion, the company strives to enhance the quality of life for its clients. For more information or to take advantage of the 'Family' discount offer, please visit www.horizonshomecare.co.uk. Contact: Email: Blackpool@HorizonsHomecare.co.uk Phone: 01253 202 922 Website: www.horizonshomecare.co.uk For further enquiries or to arrange a consultation, please contact our

A recent analysis by Age UK has revealed that 28,655 older adults aged 65 and over died in 2022/23 before receiving the social care they were waiting for. This figure equates to an average of 79 deaths daily, 550 weekly, and 2,388 monthly. The charity emphasizes that many of these individuals would have experienced more comfortable final days and their families would have felt better supported had they received the necessary care. These distressing figures are consistent with those from the previous year, indicating a systemic issue within the social care system where long waits are now the norm. Age UK attributes these delays to insufficient public funding, which hampers local authorities' ability to promptly assess older individuals, and a shortage of care workers to meet the demands of a growing elderly population. Age UK’s latest survey on social care highlights the difficulties in accessing necessary care and support. Respondents reported long waits for benefits and care assessments, care packages, discharge support, and home adaptations, significantly impacting them and their families. The upcoming report from Age UK will further elaborate on these findings, including: - 29% (7.5 million) of people worried about accessing local authority services. - 19% (4.9 million) concerned about accessing home care workers or carers. - 19% (4.9 million) worried about accessing dementia services like Memory Clinics. In a related survey, over 17,000 people aged 50 and above shared their experiences, with nearly two-fifths indicating they were paying more to manage their own or a loved one's health. Increased costs for care services, incontinence products, and other health-related expenses have adversely affected their quality of life. Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, stressed the critical role of timely social care, especially during the last weeks and months of life. Delays in receiving care leave families struggling with the burden of care tasks and navigating bureaucratic hurdles during an already challenging time. The high number of deaths among those waiting for care underscores the chronic issues within the social care system. Age UK calls for increased funding and staffing to meet the needs of the elderly population. Recent polling shows a strong public sentiment that the government should do more to support the NHS and social care services. In its blueprint for the General Election, Age UK is urging the next government to stabilize the social care sector, consult on sustainable funding, implement a comprehensive social care reform plan, increase care workers' pay, introduce paid Carer’s Leave, and enhance respite services and support for carers. ### References: 1. NHS Digital, Adult social care activity and finance report, England, 2022-23. 2. Age UK Polling: Kantar Research Express survey, September 2023. 3. Age UK SurveyMonkey survey, September 2023.

Credit: Blackpool Gazette & Vanessa Sims There were more than 1,500 safeguarding concerns raised about vulnerable adults in Blackpool last year, new figures show. Age UK said a shortage in good quality care could have "miserable consequences" for older and disabled people, if it is not addressed by Government. NHS figures show 1,565 concerns of suspected abuse were made about adults with care and support needs in Blackpool in the year to March – a significant increase from 945 the year before. Across England, there were nearly 588,000 safeguarding concerns raised – a 9% increase on the year before. Caroline Abrahams, Age UK charity director, said: "At a time when our social care services are under such acute pressure it is not surprising that the numbers of reported incidents of abuse against older people are on the rise, and that the neglect of those living in their own homes form the largest category. She added older people often wait months for a social care assessment, while home care agencies are stretched in finding staff to provide the support their clients need. "These circumstances are a recipe for older people not to receive all or sometimes any of the care and support they require," she said. We know from our own contacts with older people and their families that this leaves some living in intolerable situations, with risks to their health as well as their wellbeing." Ms Abrahams added the figures are a reminder of why the Government must address the "shortfall of good quality social care" in England, and of the "miserable consequences" for older and disabled people if it is not addressed. If councils believe a vulnerable adult is experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect, they must carry out a Section 42 enquiry to determine whether action should be taken. The very elderly – those aged 85 and over – are most likely to be the subject. The data shows there were 565 Section 42 enquiries concluded in Blackpool last year. The council found that the highest proportion of allegations in the area were linked to neglect (31%), while the highest number of incidents took place in the alleged victim's own home (41%). Nationally, most incidents were also likely to happen at home while allegations of neglect were at the centre of most investigations. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "Abuse of any kind – especially against vulnerable people in care – is abhorrent and we’re taking measures to protect people including through comprehensive inspections. "Across the country, the police, councils and the NHS are working together to help protect vulnerable adults from abuse or exploitation." If an older person is in immediate danger, the police can be called on 999. People can also call Hourglass on 0808 808 8141, a charity dedicated to ending the abuse of older people or Age UK's advice line on 0800 1696565 to seek advice about concerns.

The Homecare Association is one of several health and social care organisations to call on the government to transform end of life care. The Coalition of Frontline Care for People Nearing the End of Life have published their open letter to the government, calling for them to address how older people are cared for during their final years. Addressed to Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Steve Barclay MP, and Social Care Minister, Helen Whately MP, the letter has been signed by the Homecare Association, Care England, the British Geriatrics Society, and others. The Gold Standards Framework (GSF), also a member of the coalition, are calling for enhanced training in EOLC for all frontline generalist staff in health and social care. They stress that the frontline workforce, who provide hands-on care to those in their final years, should be well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide proactive, personalised, coordinated, and system-focused care. You can access the full text of the open letter here: www.goldstandardsframework.org.uk/coalition-of-frontline-care