Social Care

Wage Increases Essential to Resolve Social Care Crisis, Says Unison

The recruitment crisis in social care will persist without wage increases, according to Unison. The union emphasises that a fair pay agreement is crucial for establishing a national care service in England. Currently, there are 131,000 fewer staff than needed, and low wages hinder recruitment and retention.

Unison calls for a credible workforce strategy and an end to migrant worker exploitation. Poor pay and conditions drive skilled staff away, impacting care quality and family support. A national care service would alleviate NHS pressure and ensure fair treatment for care workers. Reform is essential, starting with higher wages to reflect the skilled nature of care work.

Charity News

Ethical AI Guidelines Launched for Adult Social Care Sector

The Care Workers Charity, in collaboration with the University of Oxford's Institute for Ethics in AI and Digital Care Hub, has released the Careworkers Guidance and Statement of Expectations on the Responsible Use of AI in Adult Social Care. This document, informed by frontline care workers from England, Wales, and Scotland, aims to ensure ethical AI integration in social care, focusing on enhancing care without replacing human connection.

Key aspects include ethical guidelines for employers and developers, policy recommendations for regulators, and practical advice for care workers on using generative AI tools. The statement will be officially launched during Professional Care Workers Week 2024, continuing the dialogue on AI's role in social care.

Local Government

Bristol Council Reduces Waiting Times for Care Assessments

Bristol City Council has reduced long waiting times for care assessments, previously averaging 174 days. This follows a Care Quality Commission (CQC) review in late 2023. The council has not disclosed current waiting times but has increased capacity and staffing to address the issue.

Hugh Evans, executive director of adults and communities, expressed confidence in the council's improved position ahead of the CQC inspection in late October or early November. Green Councillor Lorraine Francis noted positive progress, though acknowledged that waiting lists for safeguarding remain problematic. The review also commended the council's staff and collaborative efforts with partners.

Local Government

Stoke-on-Trent Care Homes to Meet New Quality Standards for Contracts

Stoke-on-Trent City Council proposes new standards for residential and nursing homes to secure future contracts. Only homes rated as good or outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) would qualify. This affects 63 residential homes and 18 nursing homes currently under council contracts.

Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for adult services, emphasises that the new contracts would standardise quality levels, providing extra reassurance for residents and families. Homes awaiting CQC reviews may still tender for contracts through council checks.

Healthcare

New Senior Appointments at Adel Manor Care Centre in Leeds

New Care has appointed three senior staff members at Adel Manor Care Centre in Leeds. Marsha Tuffin, with over 30 years of experience, is the new home manager, committed to providing dignified, person-centred care. Keegan Hutchinson, the new deputy manager, brings experience from hospitals and mental health settings, focusing on staff training and quality monitoring.

Matthew Bee, the new head of care, aims to excel in delivering outstanding care, having started his career in 2021. Dawn Collett, commissioning director at New Care, expressed confidence in the trio's ability to lead Adel Manor effectively. Adel Manor offers a range of care services, including respite, residential, dementia, and 24-hour nursing care.