Latest News

International lessons for England’s social care funding crisis

A new report from the International Longevity Centre UK (ILC) examines how other countries are addressing the pressures facing social care. It highlights reforms in Australia, Japan and Germany that could provide useful ideas for England as it considers how to make the sector more sustainable.

Source: The Carer

RCN calls for action over migrant nurse exploitation

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) says plans to reform social care must also address the difficulties faced by migrant nurses. The organisation is calling for stronger measures to prevent exploitation and excessive charges affecting overseas healthcare workers.

Source: Nursing Times

Calls for NHS and care facilities to prepare for extreme heat

The RCN has warned that rising temperatures are creating increasingly difficult conditions across health and social care. It is urging the Government to introduce a national programme to make hospitals and care facilities better equipped to cope with extreme heat and the effects of climate change.

Source: The Carer 

Heatwaves raise concerns over hospital safety

Newly reported data has highlighted the impact of extreme heat on hospitals, with some wards experiencing conditions described as unsafe during periods of high temperatures. The findings have renewed concerns about the ability of healthcare facilities to protect patients and staff during heatwaves.

Source: The Guardian

2,877 excess deaths linked to May and June heatwaves

A UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) report estimates that the heatwaves experienced during May and June were associated with 2,877 excess deaths. The figures underline the significant health risks that extreme temperatures can pose, particularly for vulnerable people.

Source: Government Press Release

NHS encourages eligible people to get their flu vaccination

The NHS is beginning its preparations for the winter season earlier than usual and is calling on millions of eligible people to arrange their annual flu vaccination. Health officials are encouraging those who qualify for the jab to book as soon as possible, helping to provide protection against flu as the colder months approach.

Source: The Carer

Care sector focuses on better support for people with hearing loss

Care homes and sector organisations are working together to improve the experience and support available to residents living with hearing loss. The initiative aims to encourage better awareness and more effective communication within care settings.

Source: The Carer

Pharmacy closures threatened by rising business costs

Hundreds of pharmacies could be at risk as increasing business rates add to financial pressures across the sector. Pharmacy owners have warned that higher costs could lead to service reductions and closures, potentially affecting access to healthcare for vulnerable patients.

Source: The Telegraph

Faster access to support announced for people with MND

The Health and Social Care Secretary has announced measures intended to improve and speed up access to care and support for people living with motor neurone disease (MND). The changes are aimed at helping patients receive appropriate assistance more quickly.

Source: Government Press Release

Dementia accounts for a significant proportion of hospital beds

Research by UCL researchers has highlighted the growing impact of dementia on NHS hospital capacity. Around one in six hospital beds is currently occupied by someone living with dementia, with associated costs estimated at approximately £2.8 billion a year. Researchers expect the proportion could rise substantially over the coming decades.

Source: The Carer

Midlife health could influence future dementia risk

A study has identified three health factors during midlife that may be associated with delaying the development of dementia. The findings add to growing evidence that addressing certain health risks earlier in life could potentially influence brain health later on.

Source: The Guardian

Technology could help people take action on dementia prevention

A new report looking at technology and brain health suggests that awareness of dementia prevention is increasing. However, many people still lack the confidence, knowledge or practical tools needed to turn that awareness into action. The report considers how technology could help bridge that gap.

Source: The Carer

Study suggests HRT could be associated with lower dementia risk

New research from the University of East Anglia and the University of Exeter suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could be linked to a reduced likelihood of developing dementia in some women. The findings indicate that the potential benefits may vary between different groups, highlighting the need for further research into how HRT might influence dementia risk.

Source: The Carer

Nursing home team raises £4,502 for Dementia UK

A team from Heanton Nursing Home has raised £4,502 for Dementia UK after completing a charity skydive. The fundraising effort brought colleagues together for a challenging event while raising money to support people affected by dementia.

Source: The Carer

Plymouth care home sold to local mother-and-son team

A Plymouth care home is set to retain its family-run approach following its sale to a local mother-and-son partnership. The new owners intend to continue the home's established ethos while taking the business forward under new ownership.

Source: Christie & Co