Putting dementia carers in control

September 18, 2014   Carers, dementia, Featured Article

Improve quality of life for both patients with dementia and their carers around the UK

Experts will explore how improved support and powers for people caring for loved-ones with dementia can improve quality of life for both patients and carers around the UK.

Health research specialists from the University of Lincoln, UK, will examine whether carers’ involvement in at-home monitoring, such as noting changes in sufferers’ behaviour and feelings on a daily basis, could help them cope with the reality of watching their loved-ones deteriorate.

Read More

Shake-up in how 5,500 vulnerable people in Norfolk get homecare on cards

September 15, 2014   Carers, Featured Article, Norfolk, Older care, Social care

Sue Whitaker, chairman of Norfolk County Council’s adult social care committee. Picture: Matthew Usher.

Dan Grimmer dan.grimmer@archant.co.uk
Monday, September 15, 2014
4:19 PM

The way up to 5,500 people in Norfolk get homecare could be set for a major shake-up, with council leaders warning the service needs “fundamental revision” as the county’s increasing population piles on further pressure

Proposed changes in how Norfolk County Council provides care to keep vulnerable people in their homes could see the contractors they commission paid according to results.

Read More

What mental health services can learn from Sandwell’s integrated approach

September 15, 2014   Carers, Featured Article, health, mental health

Sandwell in the West Midlands has re-engineered its services to support more people at an earlier stage in their illness, with impressive results

It is good news that the chief medical officer, Dame Sally Davies, has turned the spotlight on mental health in her latest report. She is right to argue for a big drive on public mental health.

There is already some great practice out there. I would urge Davies to take a trip to Sandwell to find out how and why the area is doing so well on violence reduction and reducing levels of depression.

Earlier this month, I travelled to Sandwell and Dudley to find out for myself. The answer is not rocket science, it is all about relationships. Focusing on building relationships helps people to become more resilient and capable.

Sandwell’s approach to mental health and wellbeing is all about recognising and developing people’s relational assets and never turning people away.

Read More