Social Care in an Age of Geopolitical Instability: A Call for Partnership in Resilience Plannin
FIVE NATIONS SOCIAL CARE LEADERS COMMUNIQUÉ
Issued by the Five Nations Social Care Leaders | April 2026
The People at the Heart of This
Social care exists to uphold the dignity, safety and independence of people who rely on daily support, including older people and disabled people, across our societies. That care is delivered by dedicated workers and providers across the United Kingdom and Ireland, who are already managing the practical consequences of geopolitical instability.
When the system that supports these individuals comes under stress — economic, logistical, or human — it is they and their families who bear the greatest burden. Their safety, continuity of support and wellbeing should be central to government resilience and emergency planning.
The Pressure on Providers and the Workforce
Rising Energy and Fuel Costs
Geopolitical instability has contributed to sustained volatility in global energy markets and supply-chain logistics, with direct consequences for social care providers across our five nations. Care delivery is energy-intensive: it depends on transport, heating, and the operational infrastructure of residential settings and community services. As fuel and energy costs rise - unlike many sectors - publicly funded and commissioned care providers cannot adjust their income to reflect rising costs in real time. This lag between cost shock and funding response is itself a risk to sector stability and the continuity of care.
Beyond energy, the current conflict in the Middle East is placing pressure on pharmaceutical and clinical supply chains globally. Cold-chain products, generic medicines, and petrochemical-derived active ingredients are all exposed to input material shortages and supply-chain delay.
For the workforce, these pressures are immediate and personal. Care workers are among the lowest-paid essential workers in our economies and are acutely exposed to the cost-of-living consequences of this instability in their daily lives. Higher travel costs affect those moving between care visits, while higher household bills add to financial pressure on the very people on whom care depends.
Impact on International Staff and Diaspora Communities
Social care across the UK and Ireland is sustained, in significant part, by workers from international and diaspora communities. Among these are individuals with personal and family ties to the Middle East, including those directly affected by the conflict in Iran. These workers are carrying not only the professional burden of an under-resourced sector, but also profound personal anxiety about the safety of loved ones in a region of active conflict.
This human dimension deserves recognition. Effective resilience planning should include the wellbeing of the workforce, including emotional support and practical recognition of the pressures faced by staff with direct ties to affected regions.
Our Call to Government
We, the social care leaders of the Five Nations, call on our respective governments -and the forums through which they engage, including the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC), and the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly to act with urgency on the following:
Governments should engage meaningfully with the social care sector in resilience planning and social care leaders must be represented in emergency planning structures. Social care must be formally recognised as an essential public infrastructure within each nation’s emergency planning and business continuity arrangements, with standing representation on the relevant national resilience and supply chain contingency bodies. Governments should work with social care providers and workforce representatives to assess and address the specific vulnerabilities that geopolitical instability — and the Iran conflict in particular — is creating for care delivery.
Resilience planning should cover the full operational realities of care delivery. This includes workforce travel, fuel access, medicines, food, utilities, communications, cyber security, PPE, community equipment and supply chains across both residential and home-based care. This holistic approach to resilience planning was exhibited during the Covid-19 pandemic, during which time social care was recognised as integral to health system resilience. This crosssystem coordination must be rebuilt and maintained.
The workforce must be supported in practical and human terms. Recognition of the dual pressures — economic and personal — facing care workers in this period is essential. Support measures should address both the cost-of-living consequences of energy price volatility and the wellbeing of those with direct ties to affected regions.
Social care is not peripheral in times of crisis; it is an essential frontline service. The people who rely on it, and those who provide it, need governments to plan in partnership with the sector now. We stand ready to contribute our expertise and experience to that work.
Issued collectively by the social care leaders of England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Ireland
New dementia training drive to boost care and support across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire
People living with dementia, along with their caregivers and families are set to benefit from a major new training programme for frontline staff across Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. The programme has been commissioned by NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) and is being delivered by specialist provider 6D Dementia from Co. Antrim, which was founded by national dementia-care expert, Dr Frances Duffy. The company is currently one of only four companies accepted onto the Alzheimer's Society’s Accelerator Programme. In recent days, it was also announced as one of 16 global finalists in the Isle of Man Innovation Challenge 2026, as a company with the potential to make a meaningful difference to people and communities across the Island.
The NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (BNSSG ICB), currently serves a population of over one million people. Upon completion of the course, 500 health and social care staff from hospitals, community services, local authorities, and the voluntary sector in the local area, will have undertaken the specialist dementia training.
The training is taking place as the UK faces rapidly rising dementia rates. Around 982,000 people are currently living with the condition, a figure expected to pass one million by 2030 and reach 1.4 million by 2040. The cost to society, estimated at £25bn in 2021, is projected to rise to £30bn by the end of this decade.
National dementia-care expert
Dr Duffy is a consultant clinical psychologist and national dementia-care expert who has authored best practice guidelines for Northern Ireland’s Public Health Agency and the British Psychological Society (BPS), contributed to the Northern Ireland Regional Dementia Care Pathway, and serves on national committees of the BPS and the Association of Clinical Psychologists. She is also an NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Fellow. The Clinical Entrepreneur Programme was established in 2016 to equip NHS staff with the commercial skills, experience, and knowledge necessary to accelerate innovations in healthcare.
Reduced pressures
6D Dementia’s training is grounded in established psychological and dementia-care evidence, alongside years of frontline clinical experience from Dr. Duffy. It seeks to improve the quality of life for people living with dementia and to ease pressure on health and social care budgets by supporting reductions in crisis, escalation, and unnecessary hospital admissions and more appropriate use of antipsychotic medication. Its mix of online modules, care planning tools, and face-to-face sessions will help staff better understand the progression of dementia, support people experiencing distress, and improve the consistency and quality of care. The approach also aims to reduce stress for carers and improve staff wellbeing and retention.
Speaking about the new training, Dr Duffy said it was an important milestone for people living with dementia, and for those who support them in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire: “As a society we are facing rapidly rising dementia rates, so it is hugely significant for people living in the area that the ICB has taken the lead and chosen to invest in specialist training that is practical, accessible, and designed to make a real difference to families and frontline staff alike.
“Our approach is fully aligned with the NHS Long Term Plan and the Northern Ireland Reset Plan, meaning our model is built on transitioning from sickness to prevention, from hospital to community, and from analogue to digital, as well as strengthening partnerships across health and social care.
“By investing in people and prevention through 6D Dementia’s specialist training, the BNSSG ICB is taking a vital lead in advancing dementia care here in the UK. It reflects their commitment to upskilling staff, improving patient experience, and supporting families through training that is practical, evidence-based, and focused on real-world outcomes.
“Our training has received incredible feedback showing it helps staff feel more supported and confident, and people living with dementia feel safe, understood, and treated with dignity in their daily care. I’m looking forward to seeing how the rollout of this programme is going to positively transform dementia care across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, and enable more people living with dementia to do so with dignity and meaningful connection, while maximising their independence.”
Speaking about the training, David Moss, Locality Director at BNSSG ICB, added: “We are delighted to commission dementia training of this type and on this scale. This has only been possible because of the strong relationships and close working between our locality partnerships: the teams of NHS staff, local councils, voluntary organisations, and community groups who work side‑by‑side every day. Their shared commitment to supporting people living with dementia means we can invest in specialist training that reflects real local needs and helps improve care where it matters most.
“Investing in specialist dementia training is a key part of our Joint Forward Plan, as we aim to ensure that people living with dementia, their families, and NHS staff all benefit from the latest thinking in dementia care. This new training programme will help our frontline teams build greater understanding and improve communication. It will help them respond more effectively to the complex needs of those affected, so that people living with dementia are supported by people with the kinds of skills and compassion that can make a real difference to them every day.”
Next on the agenda for 6D Dementia is the rollout of a dedicated training programme for families and loved ones of people living with dementia.
Rotherham Care Home Celebrates Veteran Friendly Framework Accreditation
Cherry Trees Care Home in Rotherham is proudly flying the flag after achieving accreditation under the Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) – a national programme recognising care homes that go the extra mile to support veterans.
This landmark accreditation highlights Cherry Trees’ commitment to delivering tailored, person-centred care for residents who have served in the UK Armed Forces.
The celebration event brought together residents, families, colleagues and local veterans for an afternoon filled with music, memories and community spirit. The home was delighted to welcome the Mayor of Rotherham, Councillor Rukhsana Ismail, who officially unveiled the VFF plaque at the home’s entrance. Madam Mayor, a former home‑care worker herself, commented on the “nice feeling when she walked in”, adding that “everyone looks happy and well looked after” and praising the warmth and dedication of the long‑standing staff team.
Singer Keeley May entertained guests with classic wartime hits, ending with Vera Lynn’s We’ll Meet Again. When the music unexpectedly cut out, residents continued singing together, creating a heartfelt, unplanned moment of unity. Residents raised the roof throughout the afternoon, with several taking the microphone to sing their favourite songs to cheers and applause. Colleagues embraced the theme by dressing in 1920s–1940s outfits, including one dressed as Florence Nightingale, adding to the atmosphere of celebration. The room was filled to capacity, with families and colleagues, many attending on their day off, joining residents to mark the special milestone. Guests also enjoyed refreshments and a surprise visit from the Mayor.
The home was honoured to welcome a group of local veterans, all from the Parachute Regiment: Keith, Arthur, Terry, Paul and Mick.
- Keith Hopkins, whose wife Judith lives at Cherry Trees, served 24 years and attended alongside his former comrade Arthur Ellwood.
- Terry, formerly a Royal Engineer and later a reservist, served in Northern Ireland and came along to support a Veteran Friendly home in his community.
- Paul, who joined the army straight from school, served seven years including tours in Northern Ireland and Germany.
- Mick, who grew up with Keith, served from 1975–1983 and travelled widely during his service, from Berlin and Cyprus to Canada, Hong Kong and Norway.
One veteran summed up the mood perfectly, saying: “We’re not the ones who should have medals, the carers here should have them. You have to be a special kind of person to work in a care home and they all work so hard.”
Home Manager Sharron Whaley said: “I’m so pleased we have achieved this accreditation. A lot of hard work went into the process and it means so much to be recognised as a Veteran Friendly care home. We’re grateful to all the veterans who made the effort to come and celebrate with us.”
By achieving VFF status, Cherry Trees Care Home has strengthened its approach to veteran care, ensuring former service personnel feel valued, understood and supported within their home environment.
The Veteran Friendly Framework is a national initiative designed to help care providers better understand and respond to the unique social, emotional and physical needs of the estimated 26,500 veterans currently living in care homes across England. Accreditation demonstrates that a home has taken practical steps to identify veterans, understand their experiences, connect them with relevant services, and ensure their service is recognised and respected.
Cherry Trees Care Home on Simmonite Road in Rotherham is part of the Orchard Care Homes group, which operates 23 care homes in the Midlands and North of England.
It offers residential care, residential dementia care and short-term respite care. The home holds a ‘good’ rating with the Care Quality Commission. For more information about the home visit: https://orchardcarehomes.com/carehomes/cherry-trees-kimberworth-park-rotherham
DUNLUCE HEALTHCARE MANAGER NAMED CARE MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Ashley Robinson, Residential Manager at The Peninsula, which is owned by Dunluce Healthcare, has been awarded Manager of the Year at the 2025 Heart of Peninsula Care Awards.
Ashley, who has built a career spanning eight years at Dunluce Healthcare, started as a Care Assistant at Oakmont Lodge, one of Dunluce Healthcare’s five homes across Northern Ireland.
Commenting on the achievement, Ashley said:
“It is an honour to be named Care Manager of the Year.
“Every resident in our care deserves to feel valued, empowered, and supported, and it’s a privilege to play a part in their journey.
“At The Peninsula, and across Dunluce Healthcare, our residents and their families are at the heart of everything we do and I’m incredibly proud to lead a team that shares this vision.”
In addition to Ashley’s success, The Peninsula was Highly Commended for Residential Home of the Year, a prestigious honour that recognises the outstanding quality of care, compassion, and commitment delivered by the home.
Mary McAvoy, Activities Therapist at Bangor’s Oakmont Lodge, was Highly Commended as Activity Therapist of the Year. Mary was praised for her creativity in supporting enrichment activities that improve the wellbeing of residents.
Ryan Smith, Chief Executive at Dunluce Healthcare, commented:
“Recognition at The Heart of Peninsula Care Awards highlights the exceptional standards and commitment demonstrated by our teams across Northern Ireland.
“Ashley, Mary, and the dedicated staff at The Peninsula and Oakmont Lodge exemplify our mission to deliver excellence in care – providing reassurance, comfort, and confidence to residents and their families.”
The Peninsula’s success at The Heart of Peninsula Care Awards follows it being named one of Northern Ireland’s top 25 care homes by carehome.co.uk.
The Access Group Strikes Agreement with Home & Community Care Ireland (HCCI) to Support Ireland's Home Care Sector
The Access Group, a leading provider of care management software solutions, has announced a sponsorship and strategic collaboration agreement with Home & Community Care Ireland (HCCI), the national representative body for home care providers. This agreement supports Ireland's home care sector through technology solutions, member benefits, and innovation initiatives.
Ireland's home care sector faces immense pressure, with demand for services growing as the population ages and workforce shortages likely to intensify. Ireland's home care sector, like many across Europe, faces workforce pressures and growing demand that technology solutions can help address.
The Access Group currently have five office locations across Ireland, supporting customers in 26 counties across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Through this collaboration, Access will sponsor HCCI's flagship events, including the HCCI Conference & Home Care Awards 2025, and support initiatives such as compliance workshops, AI-driven innovation sessions, and executive briefings to promote best practice and operational excellence.
The agreement provides HCCI members with exclusive benefits including discounts on Access's Care Suite solutions covering Care Planning, Rostering, Compliance, and Medication Management, alongside price protection and access to emerging technologies such as their AI platform.
Access's Proven Track Record
Access brings extensive expertise to this relationship, currently supporting over 14,000 registered care home locations across the UK and managing 25% of the UK's social care hours, demonstrating scalability and reliability which Irish providers can utilise.
“Home care is about people, not paperwork. Technology should take friction out of rostering and compliance so carers can spend more time with the people they support”, said Joseph Musgrave, CEO of HCCI. “Access’s support for our conference, workshops and innovation sessions comes with tangible member benefits. Through this collaboration with Access, we’re bringing proven tools and fair pricing to HCCI members so they can deliver safer, smarter care today and build capacity for tomorrow.”
"Technology enables care professionals to do what they do best - providing the support and empathy that make all the difference," said Anisa Byrne, General Manager of Access Care. "We've seen firsthand how the right digital tools can transform care delivery. Done right, technology integrates seamlessly into the lives of those receiving care, granting greater independence and reassurance to them and their families. This collaboration with HCCI allows us to bring proven solutions to Irish providers facing similar challenges to their UK counterparts."
This agreement reflects Access's commitment to supporting Ireland's home care sector through technology, training, and expertise that can help providers deliver better outcomes for those receiving care at home.
“No-one must be left behind” - Alzheimer’s Society tackles healthcare inequalities for people living with dementia
Alzheimer’s Society announced it has awarded £2m to a groundbreaking research project designed to tackle healthcare inequalities and improve access to care for people living with dementia in the UK.
The announcement was made at Alzheimer’s Society’s Annual Conference, where the Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock, made a keynote speech.
Around one million people are living with dementia in the UK and over a third do not have a diagnosis so cannot access the support, care and treatments they desperately need. A report* commissioned by Alzheimer’s Society from the Office of Health Economics highlighted a staggering 110 healthcare inequalities faced by people living with dementia and 28 that specifically affect carers – including gender, financial pressures, health and well-being.
Alzheimer’s Society called on research teams to come forward with big, bold ideas to ensure a fairer deal for people living with dementia and have awarded the £2m in funding to the GRACE** Programme: Better Dementia Care for Everyone.
The programme, led by Professor Claudia Cooper and Jessica Budgett from Queen Mary University of London, aims to make sure that good quality, evidence-based care is available routinely in the UK, starting with areas with the highest needs.
GRACE will adapt resources for under-served groups to ensure they are accessible – for example considering language barriers and culturally appropriate care. The research team will explore how this new care programme can support people living with dementia in areas which have among the worst national levels of health inequalities, working initially in Belfast, Humber and North Yorkshire, North East London, and Kent and Medway. Working with people living with dementia and their families in these areas, the researchers will uncover the unique barriers they face when seeking support.
The GRACE programme aims to make the UK the best place in the world for people with dementia to receive care and support, wherever they live and whatever their background – so no-one is left behind. It follows on from the NIDUS-Family programme***, also led by Professor Cooper and funded by Alzheimer’s Society. NIDUS-Family is a package of care and support which focuses on practical changes people can make, with sessions built around the specific priorities of the person with dementia – such as increasing time spent in enjoyable activities, improving sleep or for carers to have more time to focus on their own wellbeing. It can be delivered to the person with dementia and family carer together, or the family carer alone, by phone, video-call or in person.
Professor Fiona Carragher, Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “Dementia hits hardest where health inequalities run deepest. Early and accurate diagnoses, access to specialist, personalised dementia care and dedicated support for carers must be a priority - so that everyone receives the help they deserve.
“Alzheimer’s Society has brought together decision makers from Government, the NHS and local authorities to discuss how we can do better. No one must be left behind.
“That’s why we’re funding research like the GRACE programme, which will bring much-needed support to underserved communities that historically haven’t had easy access to good dementia care. We must continue to work together to tackle health inequalities barriers. It will take a society to succeed.”
Stephen Kinnock, Minister of State for Care, who spoke at today’s Alzheimer’s Society’s Annual Conference said: “I know all too well the terrible toll dementia takes on families and how demanding caring can be – I saw how much my own dad did to look after my mum.
“The government remains committed to shifting the dial on diagnosis and we’ve already stopped the downward trajectory on diagnosis rates. Our Modern Service Framework for Dementia will seek to end unwarranted variation in care, putting a floor in and making access to care fairer.
“I know none of us will rest until everyone in our country with dementia is diagnosed on time. This is a once in a generation chance to transcend party politics to build cross-party support. Social care is too important to be used as a political football. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work.”
Professor Claudia Cooper, GRACE programme lead, said: “This opportunity to roll out our suite of psychological support programmes to people with dementia and their families living in some of the most deprived areas, where health inequalities are highest, across the UK is so important.
“It is a huge challenge, but working alongside Alzheimer's Society, people affected by dementia and the NHS, we can transform how family carers and people with dementia receive support after a diagnosis. My grandmother died with dementia - we were very close and caring for her has been an experience I have drawn on in this work.”
Sarah Simmonds, who cared for her father when he was living with dementia with Lewy bodies and took part in the NIDUS programme, said: “We found that there really wasn't much structured support once we’d received a diagnosis. NIDUS gave us a direction through the swamp of symptoms and supported us as carers – a role we’d never had before as a family. It was as if I was receiving a kind of therapy in a way - being understood, reassured and guided. That support just wasn’t available through GPs or the NHS.”
The GRACE programme, which starts in spring next year, will work with people living with dementia from underserved communities to adapt these care resources to fit their unique needs.
The project will:
- Translate versions of NIDUS-Family, an online course and booklets which help family carers to support people living with dementia to remain living independently at home.
- Adapt modules within NIDUS-Family to support people caring for loved ones with learning disabilities as well as dementia.
- Create a new module which helps carers navigate moving their loved one into a care home. This can be an emotional time, particularly for minoritised groups, including those who don’t speak English.****
The GRACE team are keen to hear from people affected by dementia in the regions listed above (Belfast, Humber and North Yorkshire, North East London, and Kent and Medway) who may be interested in working with the research team to develop these resources to ensure they are adapted for these specific regions and populations. To find out more, contact graceqm@qmul.ac.uk.
GORTACHARN CARE HOME BRIDGES THE AGE GAP WITH LINKING GENERATIONS NI
As part of its partnership with Linking Generations NI, Gortacharn Care Home in Fermanagh, which is owned by Dunluce Healthcare, has completed a series of impactful intergenerational activities aimed at bridging the gap between older and younger people in the community.
To mark Global Intergenerational Week, Gortacharn collaborated with three local primary schools - St. Ronan’s Primary School, The Moat Primary School, and Bunscoil an Traonaigh – for planting and gardening sessions, collaborative arts and crafts, musical performances and more.
Each school brought a focus group of pupils aged 6–8 years old, who visited the care home for two to three sessions each
Speaking on the initiative, Ryan Smith, Chief Executive at Dunluce Healthcare, said:
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of an initiative that not only promotes positive well-being amongst our residents but will ultimately have a lasting impact.
“Ensuring quality care for our residents is a top priority, and we are pleased to be involved with an initiative that will foster community connections and meaningful relationships.
“Dunluce Healthcare has already seen the benefits of intergenerational socialisation through past projects in which local school children have visited our homes, and we look forward to developing this further.”
Elaine Brownlee, Development Worker from Linking Generations NI, said:
“Linking Generations NI have been delighted to support Gortacharn Care Home recently, to engage in regular intergenerational activities, to strengthen community bonds between their residents and pupils from surrounding schools.
“After successfully securing funding during both Christmas Connections 2024 and All Ages April 2025 small grants scheme, the team in the care home have really embraced the opportunities to bring generations together in mutually beneficial activities that help tackle ageism and reduce loneliness and social isolation.
“Now in its fifth year, Global Intergenerational Week celebrates the power of intergenerational connections. The campaign brings together individuals, communities, and organisations to promote shared experiences, learning, and relationship-building across all ages. These small grant schemes play a significant contribution in NI’s activities during GIW each year, who Linking Generations NI have led on for Northern Ireland since it began back in 2021.
“We believe that these connections are a critical element to making local communities more cohesive and encourage all care settings to explore the benefits of taking an intergenerational approach to their everyday activities.”
John McClaughry, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor, said:
"Fermanagh and Omagh District Council actively promotes positive ageing through a variety of programmes, activities and events to ensure that our older residents lead independent, engaged and socially connected lives.
“I was delighted to hear about Gortacharn Care Home's intergenerational work which is a shining example of how we can change the way we age.
“By connecting older people, we can reduce isolation and provide older people with opportunities to share, engage and thrive.
“Initiatives like this reflect our belief that by creating a space for generations to come together, we can make a difference to the lives of everyone by strengthening communities, providing opportunities to learn from each other and improving overall health and wellbeing."
To find out more about Dunluce Healthcare visit, dunlucehealthcare.com
To find out more about Linking Generations NI visit, linkinggenerationsni.com.
Still soaring RAF veteran celebrates 103 years at Bristol care home
Staff at a luxury all-inclusive care home in Bristol joined family to celebrate the 103rd birthday of resident and Royal Air Force (RAF) veteran.
Badminton Place, which is a part of Berkley Care Group, hosted a birthday celebration for Eric Lloyd, MBE, which brought together residents, staff, and family to pay tribute to a life well-lived and a century of dedication and service.
Born on the 30th of January 1922, Eric joined the RAF as a Halton apprentice just before his 15th birthday, beginning a prestigious career in aircraft engineering. His service during the Second World War took him to Sudan, and he continued serving until 1948, eventually rising to the rank of Warrant Officer. In recognition of his invaluable “services to the RAF”, Eric was awarded the MBE in 1970.
Eric’s expertise spanned a range of aircraft, including the V-Force, Venoms, Vampires, Victors, Hercules, and the Valiant. His dedication also saw him work on the Flying Boats at Pembroke Docks in Wales during the 1950s and serve as a plane observer aboard the renowned “Heart” aircraft.
His career took him, his wife Pearl as well as their three children, Stephen, Grahame, and Susan, across RAF stations in Wales, Northern Ireland, England, Germany, and Singapore.
After retiring in 1985, following 47 years of service, Eric continued contributing his expertise with the Ministry of Defence in Andover for another decade.
Following the passing of his beloved wife Pearl in 2003, Eric relocated to Chipping Sodbury in 2015 and now calls Badminton Place his home. A proud grandfather and great-grandfather, Eric remains spirited and resilient.
To mark this extraordinary milestone, ex-veteran SAC Anthony Peters, representing the Royal Air Force Veterans Association and the Royal British Legion, visited Badminton Place to honour Eric’s lifetime of service.
Commenting on the celebrations, Angela Madden, General Manager at Badminton Place, said:
“It is an absolute honour, joy, and pleasure that Eric has chosen to live with us at Badminton Place. I’d just like to give a massive thank you to the hospitality, chef and kitchen team and all the carers and staff at Badminton for marking the day and helping make it so special.
“Eric is respected by every single member of the team, and we all learn something new every day from him due to his rich life experience. His wisdom, warmth, and remarkable stories of a life well-lived continue to enrich our home. Eric embodies the spirit of community and connection that we cherish at Badminton Place.”
Preparing for new food waste legislation
allmanhall is helping its care clients prepare for 2025’s new food waste legislation.
As well as an award-winning and trusted food procurement solution, allmanhall is renowned for its expert support, from nutrition and dietetics to operational consultancy. Rachael Venditti, allmanhall’s Development Manager, outlines what catering teams in the Care sector need to do to comply with this legislation.
Known as the ‘Simpler Recycling’ reforms, new food waste legislation is coming into effect in England from 31st March 2025. Its intention? To streamline and simplify the recycling of waste, improving the existing recycling system. It applies to businesses, including privately owned care groups, and for public sector organisations in England. (Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland already have their own legislation in place.)
If you’re a care provider creating more than 5kg of food waste per week, you will be required to store food waste in separate bins and arrange for collection by licensed waste collectors. Biodegradable materials such as vegetable peelings, bones, eggshells, coffee grounds, and tea bags are to be included as food waste.
The result of non-compliance? Failure to comply could result in financial repercussions in the form of fixed penalty notices and there is also the risk of reputational damage owing to ethical considerations.
Now, if you’re producing less than 5kg of waste per week, you are exempt and micro businesses (less than 10 employees) will have until 31st March 2027 to comply to this new legislation, but there is encouragement to introduce good practices earlier than that 2027 deadline.
“A robust and compliant approach to waste reduction is not only soon to become a legislative requirement, but it makes huge sense with regards to efficient operations and the best use of your food and catering budget, too,” comments Rachael Venditti. “If you can make sure every penny spent is being put to best use, you can further enhance your residents’ dining experience.”
As food procurement experts managing the efficacy and impact of the food supply chain, allmanhall sees this focus on waste at the end of the value chain as a welcome and positive move. It seeks to address and reduce the circa 9.5 million tonnes of food that currently go to waste in the UK every year. But at the same time, the company fully recognises and appreciates the challenges it may create for a sector already under pressure.
Click here for more on the new legislation and some practical tips to help you prepare.
You can take a look at some food waste reduction strategies here.
To read more about reasons to reduce waste, even without this new legislation, click here.
Nottingham care home resident enjoys cruise trip on River Trent
Staff at HC-One’s Silverwood care home, in Beeston, Nottingham, have been focusing on making a resident’s dreams come true.
Olive Cowley, 91, moved into Silverwood in January 2021, and she celebrated her birthday on Friday, August 2. Olive has lived a wonderful life and continues to do so at Silverwood.
She has explored the world on beautiful cruise ships, the first of many being the Queen Elizabeth II. Olive went on many cruises throughout the years, where she was accompanied by her husband or family on most of the trips.
She met many friends on her travels and still talks about them. Olive even got the opportunity to sit at the captain’s table, this is something that is a huge honour and she speaks about it with pride.
Olive – who lives with dementia – often gets dressed up and packed up to continue her cruising adventures, she still talks about meeting her captain again. As a birthday present for Olive’s 91st birthday, staff at Silverwood care home arranged to take her on the Nottingham Princess River Cruise.
Along with Olive, staff also brought Rosemary Derry along on the trip as she shares the same passion for being on the open sea. Rosemary and Olive are good friends, and it made the day extra special. The Nottingham Princess is the largest river cruiser on the River Trent.
They started their cruise at the river lodge mooring in Colwick and thoroughly enjoyed the breath-taking views while passing some of Nottingham’s famous attractions and sights. They passed Nottingham Forest Football Stadium, Nottingham County Football Stadium, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Trent Bridge, Victoria embankment, Colwick Country Park, Holme Pierrepont and many more.
While aboard the vessel they enjoyed a marvellous two course meal. They enjoyed a roast chicken dinner with a black cherry and chocolate gateau with cream for dessert.
To top off the day, the residents managed to talk the very camera-shy Captain Peter Horn into having a chat and photo taken with Olive. She was delighted and said the day could not have ended any better for her.
Silverwood resident, Olive Cowley, commented:
“I really enjoyed my time reminiscing on the Nottingham Princess River Cruise. Thank you to the staff at Silverwood for making my 91st Birthday extra special.”
Silverwood resident, Rosemary Derry, stated:
“Thank you to Olive for letting me accompany her on her trip on the Nottingham Princess River Cruise. I really enjoy being on the open sea, so this was extra special for me.”
