August 2013The Home Care Specialists

Dementia Specialist Jayne Vale shares her top tips

• Your winter checklist - stay safe • Carers of the Month • Plus much more...

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December 2013/January 2014

Brand Value

Awards

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Message from Tim Lee, CEO

Care is frequently in the news, but often in a less than positive light. When seeing these reports it brings home the responsibility that each of us has to make sure that we always deliver the highest possible level of care, with dignity and professionalism.

While society in general misses out on the good news stories about care, I’m lucky enough to hear them each and every day. Stories of individual achievement, of regained independence and confidence for our customers and of Carers who go the extra mile to make a difference for those they support.

We know as a company that our customers and their families truly appreciate the dedication and commitment of our Carers who work to support them throughout the festive period and beyond.

As the business grows we have more new people joining our team. Each and every one of us has responsibility for maintaining the excellent reputation that Helping Hands has gained over the last 24 years. We all have a part to play as ambassadors for Helping Hands and for

promoting Care at Home in general.As we move into 2014, our 25th year, we will continue to increase the areas covered by our Hourly Service. This growth demonstrates our commitment to offering a service that keeps our customers at home no matter what level of support they need to make that happen.

Care is not just a job, it is both an honour and a privilege to be given the opportunity to support our customers to remain living in their own homes for as long as possible. The hard work and efforts of our carers are never taken for granted, without your dedication and commitment many of those we support wouldn’t be able to stay at home.

Thank you to each and every one of you for the wonderful job you do in caring for our customers and my best wishes for a very Merry Christmas to you all.

iii

INTRODUCING

OUR COMPANY

VALUE WINNERS

Everyday at Helping Hands we all have the opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives. We are proud to have such a committed and talented group of people working for the business. Our values sum up what should guide our everyday actions – so that we live and breathe then everyday we come to work.

EXCELLENCE EVERY TIMECongratulations Denny Cloonan, Care Advice Specialist & Out of Hours Support Team ManagerDenny always goes the extra mile for everybody, whether it’s a last minute assessment or an evening to suit the family she always delivers with a smile. Nothing is too much trouble for her and having the added responsibility for the on call, which is probably the most pressurised job in the company, she remains professional at all times. She is the foundation of knowledge in the hourly department with no restriction on sharing it! She is extremely good not only to the office staff, but customers and family members of the community. She goes above and beyond every time! Lindsey Edgehill, Director of Sales and Marketing

INTRODUCING

OUR COMPANY

VALUE WINNERS

FOCUS ON PEOPLECongratulations Ana Gomes, Live-in CarerAna was nominated by the son of her customer as Ana made a huge difference to the whole family in the last days of his life. Ana’s Focus on People was outstanding, developing a very strong connection with her customer and slotting seamlessly into the family during those precious but difficult days. Meeting Ana has been a highlight of my year as she embodies everything that Helping Hands stands for. I have the greatest admiration for Ana – she makes a huge difference to those around her. Karen Rayfield, Director of People and Performance

BUILDING ON OUR SUCCESSCongratulations Karen Jackson, Regional and Registered ManagerKaren received multiple nominations for this award. Nominees, myself and the board recognise the terrific contribution that Karen has made not only establishing the East regional office but also her work building the working practices of all regional offices. From developing sales to building operations manuals Karen is always proactive, always has an opinion and always says yes to a challenge. Her biggest achievement recently was managing both the North and the East region delivering target busting performances with both teams. Karen has been a great part of building Helping Hands and is pivotal to our continued growth. Look out for Karen’s next projects as she champions, amongst other things, Business Development in the Live-in department. Rob Farnworth, Group Operations Director

LISTENING AND UNDERSTANDINGCongratulations Jonathan Trinder, Hourly CarerI chose Jonathan as he represents one of our core company values of Listening and Understanding. Recently we received a fantastic compliment from the wife of a former customer who has passed away. Jonathan was diligent in his appropriate support to the bereaved wife and he demonstrated the true impact that a Carer can have on touching the lives of not only the person they support but also their family. Jonathan was also nominated by a colleague and also his Manager because he is very kind and caring and he follows policies and procedures. Jonathan thoroughly enjoys his role as a Carer and his customers look forward to him going. He provides high quality care, is attentive and listens to what the customer wants and then delivers in a really professional way. He is a true credit to Helping Hands. Samantha Grabham, Director of Hourly Services

CONGRATULATIONS TO...SIFISIO TSHUMASifisio’s endless selflessness is so admirable. Her recent trip with her customer to Weston super Mare was a particular highlight of her character. She kept us all updated with photos of the fun they had. She seems to continually go above and beyond what is expected.Via social services, Sifiso has been the driving force behind her customer gaining funding to have his house modernised and correctly adapted to his needs. She even included him in the decorating, giving the place a fresh and light atmosphere.

Liza Harrison, Local Care Services Manager - Worcestershire

CONGRATULATIONS TO...AMY CLAIRE WEINERAmy provided temporary cover for her current customers and proved such a resounding success with the customers and their family that they asked me to pull out all of the stops to ensure that Amy could stay on as the permanent carer as the position was vacant .Amy has brought such a lot of joy and smiles to her customer who we provide hands on care to and her doting husband who obviously loves having Amy around .The atmosphere is always relaxed when I visit and I notice how Amy’s customer Madge has her nails painted which she is very proud of and that she always holds Amys hand when they sit down together . Amy has obviously took time to find out what makes Madge as contented as possible and despite having a recent admittance to hospital Madge is clearly benefiting from Amys holistic approach.Thank you Amy for ‘being the difference’.

Alison Taylor, Local Care Service Manager - East Midlands

Our Carers of the Month….Every month each Local Care Service Manager nominates their own Carer of the month. The winners each receive a certificate together with a £20 voucher to spend! The winners for this month are:

Helping Hands Star Awards

CONGRATULATIONS TO...GRAHAM ROBERTSONFrom customer:Why I think he should be put forward. The first one is that I’m always concerned when he has a break because he is a very hard act to follow. His understanding of my dad is amazing. He is very patient and always manages to talk dad round with humour when he gets confused which is quite often. I spend quite a lot of time with them and they really are like two friends living together. My dad has a lot of physical problems but this doesn’t stop Graham taking him out even if they just go for coffee. I could go on all day he really does go above and beyond. Hope this is useful.

Fiona Small, Local Care Services Manager, Cheshire

CONGRATULATIONS TO...JOAO HENRIQUESI would like to nominate Joao Henriques for Carer of the Month for the West Midlands. Joao is a new carer to Helping Hands, having only started in October 2013. However straight away, he has made a lasting impression on two placements that he has been out to for me. He is already being booked back to placements for repeat cover. Joao is clearly a dedicated and hard working Carer who has genuine passion for the role that he does. I would not hesitate to place him with any of my customers, feeling confident that he will do an excellent job wherever he goes. Well done Joao!

Rosalind Ness, Local Care Services Manager - West Midlands

CONGRATULATIONS TO...KAREN MARY BARBOURKaren Barbour is a relatively new member of the team and she reacted extremely quickly when another carer had to go home following an emergency. Karen has been with her customer for only a few weeks and this was her first placement. They are getting along extremely well and have a great rapport between them. Karen has quickly adapted to her new surroundings and role and is always happy and pleasant when I call or visit. Karen will be leaving her customer in December when the perm carer returns and will move on to another placement in my area. Keep up the good work Karen and thank you for your quick reaction and the high standard of care you have given to our customer.

Amanda Campbell, Local Care Service Manager - North East

CONGRATULATIONS TO...KIMBERLEY DAVIESI would like to nominate Kimberley for Carer of the month. She works over and above her contractual duties with the customer she is placed with at present. The customer until recently, has been extremely restless throughout the night and Kimberley has comforted and assisted the customer to go back to sleep. I have calculated a total of 34 occasions since the beginning of October (over and above the 2 occasions) per night where Kimberley has been disturbed to assist and reassure the customer. I am however pleased that this has now calmed down as a result of the customer being prescribed medication to help her sleep. This was down to Kimberley’s persistence and dedication to ensure that the customer received the right help from professionals in reaching a satisfactory conclusion.

Wendy Duckworth, Local Care Services Manager - Wales

CONGRATULATIONS TO...LAURA OUTHWAITECarer of the Month goes to Laura Outhwaite whose customer recently passed away. Laura was with her customer for 10 months and during that time Laura witnessed a steady decline in her customer’s health. Towards the end the customer had to be moved downstairs and Laura slept on an air mattress at the side of the bed for a couple of days to be there if her customer needed any reassurance whilst she got used to her new surroundings. Family have always been extremely vocal in their admiration for Laura and have asked me to thank her for the kindness she showed during their Aunts final days.

Jo McGuffie-Jordan, Local Care Service Manager - Manchester

CONGRATULATIONS TO...MARGARET VINEMaggie was in placement and within the first couple of days the customer had requested an alternative as she felt Maggie was not suited to their needs. However a week later the daughter of the customer sent an email praising Maggie for all her hard work with her parents and how she had removed barriers and gained the trust of her mother who was very reluctant to accept care. Maggies hard work and determination changed the outcome of this package from negative to positive and will remain as perm carer with the customer and all are looking forward to spending Christmas together. Julie-Anne Rose,

Local Care Services Manager, Devon and Cornwall

CONGRATULATIONS TO...MARIJA LAURINENIENEThe reason I have nominated Marija is she is unstoppable in a calm, gentle and truly compassionate way, she has gone from one placement to another, never complaining about a thing. She just goes and when she gets there if something is not quite right or the customer is having any type of problems she sets about looking how she can solve the problem. If she can’t find a way she keeps in great contact with me and Kirsty and we discuss it together as a team. She has gone into 2 palliative placements for us and one other high level placement ,she reacts and goes off to help and care for people. If I could get her to wear a little red cap with an S on the front of her t shirt I would!!

Clare Turner, Local Care Services Manager - East Anglia

CONGRATULATIONS TO...MINA NEMITZNomination for Carer of the month is Mina Nemitz – Mina has been caring for a customer receiving Palliative care for some time now, Mina is extremely dedicated to her job as carer often deciding not to take her breaks to keep the customer company. This lady was a very heavy smoker who actively smoked throughout the day in her bedroom. Mina although not liking cigarette smoke managed to overcome this for the sake of her customer. Mina provided night care when this lady became anxious and woke up in the night, due to the ladies illness she often became distressed and her behaviour extremely challenging. Mina coped extremely well and is still caring for this lady who continues to need high levels of care. The customer and her family were so impressed with the quality of care they asked for another carer to provide a double-up Mina now has another carer from HH to share the care needs of her customer.

Monica Whitehurst, Local Care Service Manager - Warwickshire

CONGRATULATIONS TO...NICOLA WEIRThe customer has said that Nikki is a credit to us and they would not be with Helping Hands if it wasn’t for Nikki’s commitment to their family. Nikki had Mrs Thomson back out of bed and using the commode again within a week of retuning and they couldn’t ask for more from Nikki.

Nominated by Linda Desborough Local Care Service Manager for North London and Essex

CONGRATULATIONS TO...PRISCILLA NYAGUMBOPricilla is very caring and observes the clients moods and adapts care to the clients needs. Priscilla is patient and never rushes the client always being respectful and talking to the client while completing tasks. When preparing food and drink Priscilla gives the client choices. Priscilla always has a big smile and is welcoming to the hourly team who she works in partnership with and family and other visits.

Angela Laurance, Local Care Services Manager - Hertfordshire

CONGRATULATIONS TO...SHARON STEWARTOur Carer of the month is Sharon Stewart. She always supports her customer the best she can. Sharon always ensures Mandi can do the things she enjoys such as swimming and recently Mandi has stood up on her feet in the swimming pool for the first time since her accident. This has been a fantastic achievement for Mandi and thanks to the support of Sharon it has been possible.

Jo Bruen, Local Care Service Manager - Hampshire and Dorset

CONGRATULATIONS TO...KIM MARTINKim Martin is an absolute credit to the central team and the South West region. Not only has she tackled some extremely challenging placement for me, she has succeeded as she always places herself in the customers and the families places – so even when she is up against challenges Kim can sympathise as to why people behave the way they do. This is not an easy skill to perfect, I think it is one of the highest skills that the United Nations Peace Keeping missions recruit for!! In her current placement Kim has created stability and worked with a customer that was diagnosed terminally ill, he now sits independently in his own chair and Kim advised me recently a wheelchair has been ordered! Absolutely amazing. Kim, if I could clone you I would, thanks for all your hard work, you are amazing. S

uzannah Cook – Local Care Service Manager, Somerset and Wiltshire

CONGRATULATIONS TO...ANDREA TOMANAndi Toman is an amazingly compassionate Carer, she has all the abilities and values to be a wonderful Carer to anyone. However, the reason I nominate Andi for Dementia carer of the month is that when I first stared to work with her Andi was extremely worried about working with a customer with dementia. I think that a lot of carers can relate to that, the fear of the unknown and the judgements that we have about what we will experience when supporting dementia. However, with very little experience Andi took on the challenge and over a year later is still with the same customer. Last week she sent me and Jayne Vale evidence of the ways she has been supporting her customer, making up games, activates and plans to support her. Andi is creative and wants to support memory gain instead of loss and she is proud of her customer’s achievements, well Andi, I think you should be very proud of yours! Very well done and thank you for all your hard work!!

Suzannah Cook. Local Care Services Manager, Somerset and Wiltshire

Andi has gone that extra mile and has used her initiative with her customer. She is coping with unusual personal care habits and when I spoke to her she said that she can cope with that as she knows that it is not the customer it is the dementia. She has put together some games for her customer and called her “her amazing customer”. She is a very calm and patient person and has taken time to get to know her customer and what she likes to do. I am so proud to call her one of my dementia specialist carers.

Jayne Vale - Dementia Specialist

CONGRATULATIONS TO...CHRISTINA MACKENZIEChristina has been in post for 4 weeks and has made a huge difference to her customer’s life, establishing routine and placing a well balanced diet which has stopped the need for the use of laxative medication. Christine has worked long hours with her customer with some disturbed nights and all her hard work is starting to pay off, even though there are still daily challenges. Christine has a pro active approach and the family are more than delighted with her commitment and dedication with their father.

Julie-Anne Rose, Local Care Services Manager, Devon and Cornwall.

Our Dementia Carers of the Month….Every month each Local Care Service Manager nominates their own Dementia Carer of the month. The winners each receive a certificate together with a £20 voucher to spend! The winners for this month are:

CONGRATULATIONS TO...JOANNA KOTKIEWICZJoanna Kotkiewicz has been with her customer since June of 2012. This placement is extremely rural, the nearest shop being 7 miles away, and Joanna has managed admirably. Joanna very much has the best interests of her customer at heart, and although her customer has become extremely reliant Joanna still manages with assisting her to maintain as much independence as she can. They regularly visit the local pub at the weekend for an evening meal and go out shopping once a week with a friend and neighbour. Joanna has a great understanding of both her customer and the condition she is living with and always puts her customer’s needs at the forefront of everything she does. Well done Joanna it’s a pleasure to have you on my team.

Amanda Campbell, Local Care Services Manager - North East

CONGRATULATIONS TO...STEPHANIE WALKERStephanie’s customer has deteriorated rapidly and this has not phased Stephanie, she has still supported to the best of her ability, ensuring that her customer’s needs are met at all times. Stephanie never fails to deliver quality of care. Stephanie has had fantastic feedback from the family and they feel Stephanie is doing such a fantastic job.

Jo Bruen, Local Care Services Manager - Hampshire and Dorset

CONGRATULATIONS TO...LORRAINE KAROFILOUI nominate Lorraine for dementia carer of the month as she continues to work in what is becoming an increasingly difficult placement. Lorraine’s understanding of her customers changing needs and continues decline in health is without end. Her patience and kindness which are often met with mistrust and opposition seems limitless.

Jo McGuffie-Jordan, Local Care Services Manager, Manchester

CONGRATULATIONS TO...MELINDA FEJERMelinda has gone to a brand new customer who suffers with advanced dementia and the family were having great concerns just before they were due to go to the other side of the world for a month. Melinda is so popular with the customer and the family can’t believe it. Every time I have called to chat to the family, or to Melinda, they are so happy it’s contagious to hear. The customer is settled and content and this was a big concern that she would be distressed, but quite the opposite has happened. I’ve had compliments about Melinda’s cooking and her wonderful way with the customer who has grown very fond of her and the daughter told me” they seem to have a real laugh!” Thank you Melinda.

Clare Turner, Local Care Services Manager - East Anglia

CONGRATULATIONS TO...NERVE GAYLEMy nomination for Dementia carer of the month is Nerva Gayle. Nerva has only been with the company since September 2013 she has been caring for a lovely lady with dementia who also became a customer in September 2013, this has not been an easy placement as the customer was extremely reluctant to accept anyone in her home. She is a very headstrong lady with no immediate family and Nerva accepted the placement with a very open mind and had has managed to support her customer with great empathy while on various occasions being on the receiving end of verbal abuse. Nerva accepts that this is part of the illness and she has actively engaged with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure that her customer has the very best equipment to enable her to shower each day. She now works alongside the continence team to ensure that the customers needs in this are managed effectively. She also accompanies her customer on daily walks to visit friends and family. The D/M only ever has good things to say about Nerva they do not know how she does it however they are so pleased she does.

Monica Whitehurst Local Care Services Manager, Warwickshire

CONGRATULATIONS TO...PAULA EASTPaula’s customer was admitted to hospital recently and was diagnosed with aggressive dementia. Her customer is blind and had been in and out of hospital over a number of months with UTIs. All of this was very distressing for her and had been left alone for long periods of time in an unnatural environment, not knowing where she was and everyone around being unknown to her, not being able to see or understanding where she was for some of the time. Paula used public transport to visit the hospital daily, providing reassurance and a familiar voice for her customer. Paula assisted her with personal care while visiting her, due to the lack of resources at the hospital and took her food, Paula also ensured Anne was having enough liquids to prevent her becoming dehydrated.Paula took clean clothing and generally kept her customer’s spirits up. The family were so relieved to have Paula visiting their mother as they either live a long distance or work and have their family to care for and were not able to visit until the weekends.While completing the hospital visits Paula ensured the family were updated on his wife’s well being and provided companionship and housekeeping for her customer’s husband.Excellent work and certainly going the extra mile Paula!!!

Angela Laurance, Local Care Services Manager, Hertfordshire

CONGRATULATIONS TO...ROBINA DAYI would like to nominate Robina Day as Dementia Carer of the Month for the West Midlands. Robina works as the day carer for a double live-in, high level Dementia placement. She copes superbly and very calmly with what are, mostly, very intense and demanding days. Robina is a true professional who gets on with the task in hand whilst always having her customer’s best interests at heart. Her composed demeanor works well in this placement. As well as supporting her customer, she has to work as part of a team alongside a night carer and also a team of carers that cover the breaks. Robina is very team spirited and also acts a fantastic support for her colleagues. The family are also very praising of Robina and appreciate her hard work and dedication, as do I. Thank you Robina. You have been a long-standing carer for Helping Hands for many years now and you always deliver a consistent and exceptional level of care.

Rosalind Ness, Local Care Services Manager, West Midlands

CONGRATULATIONS TO...TRACY HADFIELDTracy has been with her customer as a permanent carer since June having previously provided temporary cover and being specifically requested to return by the customers wife.Tracy’s customer has a very high level of dementia for a customer so young, he is a highly intelligent gentleman who has substantial parts of his life that are ‘missing ‘ but by taking the time to listen , observe & working with his wife Tracy has developed an amazing understanding of his feelings, his good and bad days and his very dry wit .Tracy is the piece of the jigsaw that was missing for her customer’s wife as her life had been on hold whilst she cared for her husband full time and didn’t trust anyone enough to leave him so that she could have time to herself. Not only has Tracy’s customer benefited from having her around but his wife has too .Tracy has a an overwhelming thirst for knowledge about Dementia and whenever we meet most of our time is spent talking about Dementia, its effect on family members, what we can do to help and how we can enrich peoples lives .Tracy clearly demonstrates how important ‘Listening and Understanding’ is for all Helping Hands employees.

Alison Taylor, Local Care Services Manager - East

Message from Andi Troman, Live-in Carer caring for a customer with Dementia

Hi Jayne,It was nice to get a call from you earlier and thank you for helping me. It is really nice to know that someone is always there for you when you need help. :)

As discussed please find attached the picture cards I have made for Mavis.

I have asked one of her sons to print them out for me and laminate them, so it will have a hard cover and will not get ruined.

The first pic shows some of the picture cards. I think I made about 17-18 different ones. These are like the game Odd One Out. I show her the pictures and she has to try and tell me which image doesn't belong there.

The second pic shows the cards what I made for Mavis. I put them on the table, mix them up and she has to find as much pairs as she can.

The third pic shows some pictures what Mavis can color. She is quite good at this :)

The fourth pic shows how talented my sweet sweet Mavis :)

We are off for a little walk soon as it is beautiful and sunny over here in Bristol :)

The Home Care Specialists

Pick up the phone today and refer a friend...If you know someone who would be a great Helping Hands Carer, then refer them today.

So Carers, to recommend a friend, call: 0808 180 1123 or email: recruitment@helpinghands.co.uk

* For every friend that officially starts. Monies will be paid directly into your bank account on the next payday

EARN £100!

Call us today0808 180 1123

Dear Jayne

Dear Jayne,I need some help my customer has lost her appetite. She used to be a big eater and loved her food. But just recently she has been refusing food saying that she is not hungry. I am really concerned as she needs to eat to keep her strength up and it is not good for her.

Hi Carer, This is common. As we get older, we are less active therefore our appetite does go down and so I will not eat as much as I used to. When you think about it, if they are sat in a chair all day and only getting up to use the toilet then they are not burning any food off and so they will not feel hungry. Also there could be other reasons we may not enjoy food any more, their taste buds may have gone and now all food tastes the same and so I don’t want to eat food with no taste. Also food needs to look attractive as we tend to eat with our eyes. Sometimes you will find during our life time that our food preferences will change and so this also may be the problem. Also they feel ill and not want to eat. “think about how you feel when you are ill”.

How to Help Firstly we need to establish why she is not eating, so ask her if she is in pain anywhere. If they are unable to speak then look for signs of them holding their stomach or any other part of their body also look at their facial expression. Also are they regularly going to the toilet? Are they constipated or have Diarrhoea?

Secondly, think about how you are presenting the food. If the customer has a small appetite and you are putting a lot of food on the plate then this will put the customer off the food. Think about how you are arranging the food on the plate as some people don’t like their food to touch.

Thirdly, we also need to think about what you are offering to eat. As an hourly carer some times they have limited food in the their fridge. If this is the case, when you are offering the food, if they say no

Jayne’s advice and support for those caring for someone living with Dementia

to it all then we need to say “is there anything else you would like” they may say to you I would love some Chicken slices but the family always get Ham then you can tell the family this. As a Live in Carer, we should always be writing the shopping list with your customer so that they can tell you what they fancy to eat.

As a Carer we tend to get rapped up in “THEY MUST EAT” this is not the case. We need to remember that there will always be a reason for them refusing food and it is our duty not to force our customers to eat but to find out why and sort this problem out. Also remember that if they want to eat ice cream or something that we feel is not healthy then as long as they are eating then our duty as a carer is to offer an alternative but if they refuse don’t say “you shouldn’t eat that it is bad for you” Just make a note of what they have eaten in the daily log and if it persists then inform your line manager. Finally, look at where they are eating food. If they have sat at the diner table all their life and you are now giving them the food on a tray on their lap or a tray table in front of them. This will also be hard for them especially if they have dementia, as they use association and will associate the dining table with food and will not know what this is in front of them. If they are unable to get to the table or they don’t have a dining table any more then can we help by putting a table cloth on the tray. Laying the tray out like we would do a table. i.e a place mat, knife and fork and spoon salt and pepper pots etc.

It is more important that they drink and we should always make sure that we are leaving a drink for the customers within their reach all the time. Also make sure that you offer a drink with the meal if they are having swallowing problems then this will help them as well.

Keep up the good work more hints next month , Jayne A quote from a lady with Dementia “It’s like I’ve always had a cupboard (the brain) for years where I have carefully washed and ironed my best linen (information and simple facts) and put them away until I need to use them. Some days I take out certain items like my best tablecloth or napkins (names of children, grandchildren, neighbors, where I have put things around the house etc) and they are in perfect, pristine condition. Then other days I take them out and they appear to be moth-eaten with big holes in them and all crumpled up. I just stand there looking at them wondering how they could have gotten like that.......this seems to be happening more and more recently. Those damn moths have eaten my linen.”

Celebrating carers this month that have completed the Dementia training online:

East Region:Medeja KomacZsuzsanna Emone GhyczyMark PetersNoemi Kun

Central Region:Chloe MorganMichal Klimes Joao Carlos De Bastos Henriq

North Region:Kathryn Kyeyune Fazilla Barreto

Hourly - RedditchLinda Cleary

Well done to you all!

Jeanette Endecott with her customer Gary HickinsonThis is one of our Carers Jeanette Endecott with her customer Gary Hickinson. Gary has never been so happy or in better health, according to his family. Jeanette has found working with Helping Hands such a positive experience that she encouraged her son to apply. Martin Endecott is now also a Helping Hands employee!

“Here is a little photo from when my father’s Carers Wayne and Megan went walking round the lake at Keswick” - daughter of customer, Bill Porter

Uri the dog enjoying a fuss with Live in Carer Jan Surkovsky at customer Jon Gilmores.

Getting to know our Carers and Customers

A Month in the life of Helping Hands

Customer Katy Owen

Ordinarily, I am a busy lady. In any given month, I can be required to attend any number of voluntary sector meetings – I am a member of the Stoke-on-Trent Lions Club, Stoke-on-Trent-promoted ‘Green Door’ Project and ‘Disability Solutions’ (an action organization, which has been set up and run by disabled people).

Most groups I am involved with have their meetings every alternate month, with the exception of Stoke Lions, who meet by-monthly. I summarize Lions’ International Foundation Newsletter, for the membership and E-mail it to our members.

Besides the meetings, which my Helping Hands carer, Belinda, takes me to, there are the shopping trips (we cannot do without the groceries), and cinema trips – Belinda and I are real film buffs, and the odd local theatre trip. Most recently, Belinda and I went to see ‘West Side Story’, along with my sister.

Finally in October, Belinda and I enjoyed a week’s holiday in Bournemouth, where we visited Stonehenge and, were fortunate enough to enjoy a couple of visits with my niece, Gemma, who has recently had a little girl, called Thea. I am now a Great Aunt!

The benefits of live-in care work: an expat’s story Leaving the Spanish summer sun, Alison hopped on a plane and headed for Helping Hands’ centre of excellence, based in the heart of Alcester. Alison was no stranger to the UK, having lived there for twenty-two years before deciding to relocate to mainland Spain. Although a big decision to make, Alison realised that working as a Helping Hands Live-in Carer would suit her expat lifestyle perfectly.

Alison originally heard about live-in care work from friends of her parents, who live in Murcia and work as Live-in Carers on and off for two-week periods. After seeing how well live-in care worked for them, Alison researched reputable care providers on the internet and came across Helping Hands, deciding it was the option that suited her lifestyle best. “I chose Helping Hands because they’re a nationwide company, meaning I could possibly work near Nottingham where my family are,” she explains.

Whilst Helping Hands also offer an hourly service, as an expat living in Spain, Alison decided that live-in care was the best option for her. She says, “Live-in care gave me the opportunity to spend time in both countries.” Dividing her time between Spain and the UK is particularly important to Alison, who, despite living with many family members in Spain, still has roots firmly planted in England. Coming straight from Spain after a very smooth recruitment process, she was even able to stay with her grandmother the night before the first day of training.

After a very successful training week, Alison went back to her grandmother’s house, where she awaited news of her first placement. After agreeing a work routine that would suit her lifestyle, Alison was keen to get started. She says, “I could more or less choose the work schedule that was most convenient for my lifestyle.”

News came quickly, and soon enough, Alison was providing live-in care to her first Helping Hands’ customer. Since then, she has been

able to make a positive contribution to many people’s lives, whilst remaining in close contact with her loved ones in both Spain and the UK.

Between her placements, Alison is able to go back to living her normal life in Spain. Alison, whose current home is fifteen minutes from the coast, says, “I go straight back to Spain because I have my husband, children, parents, friends, dogs and home there.”

At home, Alison is able to spend time walking the dogs, looking after her allotment and olive trees, and going for drinks with friends. After a few weeks at home, she is then able to head back to the UK before her next placement is due to start so that she can visit her family members and friends. By choosing Helping Hands live-in care, Alison has been able to truly take control of her career and create a perfect work-life balance. Commenting on the benefits of working for Helping Hands, she says, “I can do the type of job I enjoy, yet still enjoy my Spanish lifestyle.”

Alison really enjoys being a member of Helping Hands, and has been able to make a positive contribution to many people’s lives. “My experience so far has been very positive”, says Alison. “I feel very much appreciated by the managers and staff, and feel that they are very flexible and helpful. I can also see a lot of scope for working with different types of customers and in different areas. There is also the possibility to choose either temporary or permanent positions.”

Although Alison has available teaching work in Spain, she acknowledges that not everyone is so fortunate. “Many expats are struggling with the current economic recession. Working as a Helping Hands Live-in Carer is therefore a very good way of being able to continue enjoying the life you have chosen in Spain and combine it with seeing friends and relatives in the UK, before and after you start work.”

Our customers speak for themselves...

Our customers speak for themselves...

Alison Carter: Q&AWhat area of Spain are you from and how long have you lived there?I live in mainland Spain, fifteen minutes from the coast between Tarragona and Barcelona, and close to two airports with regular flights to the UK. I’ve lived here for more than twenty-eight years from the age of twenty-two.

How did you hear about Helping Hands when in Spain?I heard about live-in care work from friends of my parents, who live in Murcia and do two weeks on and two weeks off with another care provider. I also saw an advert in an English newspaper in Spain looking for carers with a different company. After investigating on the internet, I came across Helping Hands.

An as expat, why did you choose to work for Helping Hands? Why live-in care?I chose HH because they are a nationwide company, meaning I could possibly work near Nottingham where my family are. They also sorted out your paperwork. It wasn’t necessary to be self-employed. Live-in care gave me the opportunity to spend time in both countries.

Do you find the flexibility of the job attractive?Yes, I could more or less choose the work schedule that was most convenient for my lifestyle.

Do you feel that you have the best of both worlds?Yes. I can do the job I enjoy, yet still enjoy my Spanish lifestyle.

During your breaks between placements, do you return to Spain?“Yes. I go straight back to Spain because I have my husband, children, parents, friends, dogs and home there.”

What kind of activities do you enjoy doing whilst at home in Spain?In Spain, I like walking the dogs, looking after the allotment and olive trees, and going out for a drink with friends.

Is there any advice you would offer to another expat who might be considering joining HH as a carer?I’m doing the job because I enjoy this type of work, but I have plenty of work in Spain teaching English. However, many expats are struggling with the current economic recession, so this is a very good way of being able to continue living the life you have chosen in Spain and combine it with seeing friends and relatives in the UK, before and after you start and finish work.

How have you found your experiences so far at Helping Hands?My experiences so far have been really positive in that I feel very much appreciated by the managers and staff, and feel that they and flexible and helpful so that I feel happy at work. I can see a lot of scope for working with different types of customers and in different areas, and in choosing temporary or permanent positions.

I’ve worked in a corporate environment since I graduated from University and felt that there may have been a more fulfilling job out there for me, and this is why I decided to become a Carer. I chose Live in Care because I want to be able to make the kind of difference to the life of my customer and their family that can only be provided by the peace of mind and comfort of knowing that there is always someone on hand.

Why you chose Helping Hands

Helping Hands was preceded by it’s reputation for me! My sister worked for Helping Hands and when I expressed an

interest in care, she recommended that I go straight to Helping Hands as she could vouch for them. As it’s such a big change in career, I wanted to be sure that I’d be supported and trained by the best in the business and as Helping Hands is an award-winning care provider, I knew I could trust them with my next big step.

How you found the training course with Helping Hands

The training course was fantastic! I started the week with little to no knowledge of care and by Friday afternoon I was fully confident in my new skills and abilities. The trainers were clearly experts, who really care about what they do and the people on the team. I also was delighted to have met the other trainees on the course, I’ve made some great friends and in a Live In role, it’ll be wonderful to have some friends who understand the job I’m doing.

How you have found the support you have received from Helping Hands

I’ve found Helping Hands to be wonderful in getting me set up on this new path. They’ve given me help and advice on everything and been incredibly accommodating during the transitional period.

Kelly Gallagher

Introducing...Kelly GallagherLive-in Carer

Introducing...Kelly GallagherLive-in Carer

In health and safety lingo, the terms “accident” and “incident” may appear to be interchangeable – but they’re not.

An incident is any situation that unexpectedly arises in the workplace which has the potential to cause injury, damage or harm. An accident is actually an incident that resulted in someone being injured or damage being done to property.

As an example, if someone leaves a ladder leaning in an unsafe position and it falls over without harming anyone or causing damage to the premises or to any items on the premises, that is an incident.

If the ladder lands on someone when it falls over, causing injury to the person, that is an accident.

All work-related accidents and incidents must be reported, no matter how small or insignificant you think they may be at the time.

We have introduced two new email addresses to make this as easy as possible for you. If you are a carer - please report any accidents or incidents to CarerAccidents&Incidents@helpinghands.co.uk or directly to your Line Manager.

If the accident or incident involves your customer then this should be reported to CustomerAccidents&Incidents@helpinghands.co.uk or directly to your Line Manager.

Although the word “accident” may imply something that is outside of our control, in fact most accidents are preventable, if people follow the health and safety guidelines and policies that we have put into place. Stay Safe.

A CHAIN IS ONLY AS LONG AS IT’S WEAKEST LINK.”

“The proverb has a literal meaning, although the ‘weakest link’ referred to is figurative and usually applies to a person or technical feature rather than the link of an actual chain.

BEING RICH OF HEART MAKES YOU HEALTHY BEYOND COMPARE.”

“

ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS

FAMOUS ENGLISH EXPRESSION AND

ITS MEANING

INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE

The quote means that if you have a caring heart, you will feel great within yourself.

CHRISTMAS IS A SEASON FOR KINDLING THE FIRE FOR HOSPITALITY IN THE HALL, THE GENIAL FLAME OF CHARITY IN THE HEART.”

“CHRISTMAS

QUOTE

It’s beginning to look a lot like christmas

Christmas is a very traditional holiday in England and Wales and to many of our Carers some of our homely traditions can seem a bit bizarre. So we have created a list of the most common family traditions from around the office to help prepare you for your customer’s own traditions.

Karen Jackson, Eastern Regional and Registered ManagerWho ever hosts Christmas in our family competes for the best table decorations. Each year we take it in turns to put the star on the tree .The decorations we bought for the children’s first Christmas still come out, despite the fact they no longer sing or dance or light up!

Natalie Moore, Area Manager for WarwickshireWe always cook the turkey on Christmas eve, and have hot turkey sandwiches Christmas eve night. Then the kids open a present that is in their stocking – as if by magic, they are always pyjamas.

Lynn Bradley, Financial Collections ManagerAs a family “tradition” we exchange Christmas cards on 12th night.

Karen Rayfield, Director of People and PerformanceWe always leave a mince pie, sherry and carrot for Father Christmas and Rudolph. We never miss the Dr Who Christmas special on TV and spend the whole day eating. We never have enough batteries for the kids’ toys and my husband always gets cross with trying to get the toys out of the packaging for the children.

Tina Mooney, Accounts/Payroll Manager (Domiciliary)My mum, sisters and I and all our respective families get together on Boxing day rather than travelling on Christmas day. We take it in turns to host the day, so the expense of feeding everyone isn’t always down to the same family. We spend the whole day & evening together & swap presents on this day too. We then spend the afternoon playing silly games with the children.

Photo by Roy Fernandes Live-in Carer

Customer Winter ChecklistHow to prepare your customer this winter…

• Talk to your customers– who would they call if we are unable to get there? Get this information and inform the office

• Check they have stocked up on essential groceries especially non-perishables, UHT milk, medications and other items before you leave

• Leave a flask of hot drink• Leave enough snacks, prepare a sandwich• Leave blankets/hot water bottle• Ensure everything is within easy reach• Check the central heating level before you leave the property• Check smoke alarms

How you need to be prepared this winter…Remember to carry in your car the following:

• A torch (with spare batteries)• Spade• Flask of hot drink• Rugs/blankets• Wellies/Indoor shoes

We listen to our Carers...For some time we gave been considering introducing a new ID Badge system at Helping Hands but it was not until Ursula Jayes (Recruitment & Selection Manager) spent a day in the North Region with LCSM Alison Taylor and met an amazing Live In Carer called Sharon Wake. Having worked in care for over 20 years, Sharon joined Helping Hands in May 2013 and has been an outstanding Carer for us, Sharon chose to work for Helping Hands over a number of other care companies and her only disappointment was the ID Badge! We are pleased to say, thanks to Sharon’s feedback that we have now introduced an electronic ID Badge printer and the new ID Badges are rolling off the production line. Ursula recently visited Sharon to present her with the very first of our new ID Badges, Sharon was delighted and commented “ I absolutely love working for Helping Hands, you are all so supportive and do listen, Alison has been the most fantastic Manager I have ever had”.

For all Carers requiring an ID Badge please let your Manager know who can order this on your behalf.

Ursula Jayes with Live-in

Carer Sharon Wake

Spanish recruitment...Hola!In response to our growing need for more carers we held a 4 day recruitment event in Spain late November meeting potential carers in Benidorm, Torrevieja and Mojacar. We have a number of overseas carers that work for Helping Hands and we know that as well as Live in Care being a rewarding and fulfilling career it also allows our carers to work in the UK for a few weeks and then return home to friends and family during their breaks.

The events were a great success with us interviewing over 40 candidates. 32 of these new carers have already passed training and a number have already been placed with new customers or are being considered for placements.These events will allow Helping Hands to recruit in new ways and introduce new talent to our growing business. Due to the success of the last event the recruitment team will be travelling to Malaga to meet more candidates on the 11th and 12th December.

For those of you that have friends, family or colleagues in Spain that might be interested in working for helping Hands as a carer please contact Kim Kennedy, Off Site Recruitment Manager on 07805 626091 or email:Recruitmentlive-in@helpinghands.co.uk

Name: Rob FarnworthWhat do you do? Group Operations Director supporting Helping Hands deliver great service to our customers, decision makers, carers and office teamsDescribe yourself in three words... enthusiastic, determined and target drivenFavourite band? Bruce Springsteen (like most blokes of a certain age!)Favourite food? Pork belly – well actually just the crackling!Favourite Film? Shawshank RedemptionName of your first pet....CindyWhat did you want to be when you were little? A vetWhat are you scared of? HeightsThree desert island essentials...Wife, kids and my dog Tilly (or Ipad, wifi and an everlasting bottle of wine)

Name: Kerry ValeWhat do you do? Full time Hourly Carer, and Part time Moving and Handling Trainer Describe yourself in three words... hard working, fun, understanding Favourite band? 1975Favourite food? Lasagne Favourite Film? Twilight saga Name of your first pet...Lady (female dog)What did you want to be when you were little? Hair dresser What are you scared of? Spiders Three desert island essentials...Tooth Brush, Book, Family

Name: Wendy DuckworthWhat do you do? I am the Local Care Service Manager for Wales (now known as Wendy Wales)Describe yourself in three words...I am a good listener, articulate and strong-mindedFavourite band? UB40Favourite food? Chinese Favourite Film? My favourite film of all time is GreaseName of your first pet...My first pet was A budgie called SparkyWhat did you want to be when you were little? hairdresserWhat are you scared of? I am petrified of SpidersThree desert island essentials.. hair straighteners, my mobile and my partner, Colin

Office Staff Interviews

Please welcome our new addition to the Resource team

Name: Petra Sunkova, What do you do? RecourcerDescribe yourself in three words... Fun to be aroundFavourite band? Don’t have favourite one but love all sorts, JazzFavourite Film? Erin BronchowicFavourite food? I am health obsessed so all healthy stuff, favourite is FalafelName of your first pet...Not a pet person reallyWhat did you want to be when you were little? Wanted to be a TV presenter...so far from it right now

Resource TeamWhat are you scared of? I am scared of bad peopleThree desert island essentials..3 essentials water, book, and another book

Your resource contacts:

East: Amber ReadEmail: amber.read@helpinghands.co.uk

South East: Fay NaylorEmail: fay.naylor@helpinghands.co.uk

North: Hannah Marie Smith Email: hannahmarie.smith@helpinghands.co.uk

Central: Petra SunkovaEmail: petra.sunkova@helpinghands.co.uk

Hello to all Carers, Following my introduction last month, I would now like to introduce you to my team, Louise Fitter, HR Administrator and Hannah White People and Performance (P&P) Assistant. Please keep a note of our numbers and if you need anything, from advice to support and anything in between, we will try our utmost to help you. We are here to support you!

Can I also remind you all of the ‘Not Enough Work’ hot line that we man, the number for this is 01789 767194 or you can email notenoughwork@helpinghands.co.uk If you are available for placement and feel that we could

The HR Teambe doing more to get you your next placement, please call us and we will champion your request and work with the resourcers to find you your next placement.

Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you and your customers a wonderful Christmas and New Year! I would also like to thank you all for your hard work and contribution to Helping Hands in 2013!

On behalf of the P&P team…we are looking forward to working with you in 2014!

Denise Monaghan, HR Manager

Hannah WhiteI joined Helping Hands in October 2009, I have spent 4 years working within the recruitment team as coordinator and later as a manager, I thoroughly enjoyed working in these roles, meeting some wonderful carers and following their journey with Helping Hands. I have recently changed roles so that I can also continue with my education, I now support the people and performance team which contains the recruitment team, HR, Quality assurance and training team. As well as doing this I have recently embarked on furthering my education, I am currently studying my Level 7 CIPD which I am really enjoying!

Name: Hannah White What do you do? People & Performance AssistantDescribe yourself in three words... Friendly, approachable and happy!Favourite band? Well, music artist would be Michael BubleFavourite food? Crisps!Favourite Film? BraveheartName of your first pet...Ben, a king charles cavalier spanielWhat did you want to be when you were little? A primary school teacherWhat are you scared of? All creepy crawlies!Three desert island essentials...My mum, my dogs and music!

Louise FitterI joined Helping Hands in October 2012, as a HR Administrator, my first year with the company has been amazing. There are so many members of staff and a lot to learn about each individual. I am currently studying my CIPD to increase my HR knowledge and I look forward to developing my career within Helping Hands.

Name: Louise FitterWhat do you do? HR administratorDescribe yourself in three words...Outgoing, HappyFavourite band? NickelbackFavourite food? CheeseFavourite Film? Lock, Stock and two Smoking BarrellsName of your first pet...Toby - dogWhat did you want to be when you were little? Singer/Pop star (can’t sing though)What are you scared of? MiceThree desert island essentials...Picture of my family, iphone and pillow

Nail cuttingSome of our customers require Carers to provide some simple nail-care to them, this may be because they are not eligible for free chiropody service or may have difficulty in accessing the service.If your customer requires this assistance from you then it will be discussed at the assessment. A decision will be made regarding the level of risk in performing this task on their behalf and information put into place in the support plan. Remember the shaving exercise in training. We tell you that this task should only be completed if it is included in the support plan – we never say “NO” we always say “let’s find a way”.

If you do provide nail-care to your customer you should always use nail clippers and have soaked the hands or feet in warm water to soften the nail before attempting to trim them. Remember to take care not to go too short and use a nail file/emery board to file off any rough edges.”

Shaving In your training you may have been told that in no case must you wet shave your customer. But if it is stated in the support plan you can.

This means it has been risk assessed by our team and is acceptable to do so.

Make sure you wear gloves, use a good quality razor and a shaving product.

– Mel Dawson, Senior Registered Nurse Specialist

Mel Dawson Senior Registered Nurse Specialist top tips

Earn £100

To refer someone call: 0808 180 9455 oremail: enquiries@helpinghands.co.uk*For every customer who officially starts. Monies will be paid directly into your bank accountTerms and Conditions apply.

Care to make a difference?Meet Shane Wright a customer of our Local Care Service

Manager, Alison Taylor. Shane has been receiving Live-in

support from Helping Hands for over 6 years, and it works

really well for him. Shane became a tretraplegic in 1995

after an industrial accident shattered his 5th and 6th

vvertebrae. Shane approached Helping Hands to provide him

with a Live-in Carer that could meet his expectations around

independent living. We introduced Steven, Shane's live in

support worker over 6 years ago and to this day they are still

very much a team. Sharing the same passion for football,

computer games and playing pool!

Shane sShane says “Having a Live-in Carer gives me great peace of

mind, especially during the night. Steven is great company,

we love to watch football even though we support

rival teams!”.

So, if you know someone like Shane who needs

someone lisomeone like you to care for them, then let us know. Not

only will you receive £100* but you will also be putting the

care of someone in the best possible hands...Helping Hands.

Ingredients:• Vegetables of choice

• Joint of meat; beef, lamb, pork

• For Christmas lunch a whole turkey or a turkey crown.

• Stuffing mix (optional) or follow a recipe for home made

stuffing.

• Gravy mix or follow a recipe for home made gravy.

Equipment:• Roasting tin or a turkey tray

• Paring knife

• Vegetable peeler

• Saucepans

• Steamer (optional)

• Plate for slicing joint

• Carving knife and fork or an electric knife

• Serving plates

Method:• Ensure all items you will use are available.

• Preparing the vegetable early saves time when cooking.

• Use a chopping board, peeler and paring knife for preparing vegetables.

• Take the meat joint out of the fridge and rest for approx 30 minutes before cooking.

• Place meat joint into the roasting tin and cover with the lid (if available) or foil.Peel and slice potatoes and carrots.

• Small potatoes have been left whole for boiling. Larger potatoes have been cut in half for roasting with the joint.

• Place roast in the oven. Cook on a higher heat for 15 - 30

Mrs Smiths Old Thyme Recipes

A Traditional Christmas DInner

iii

minutes to seal the joint, reduce the heat to Gas mark 5 to cook joint slowly and keep it tender. Remove cabbage leaves from stem and chop finely. Cabbage leaves can be cut into fine strips easily with a pair of scissors, roll the leaves up and simply chop fine sections. Once the meat begins to cook place the larger potatoes around the joint in the meat tin.

• Alternatively potatoes can be part boiled and then added to the meat tin later; the meat juices will have began to run and can be used to coat the potatoes for roasting.

• Leave peeled and chopped vegetables covered in water to keep fresh. Cabbage will stay fresh once cut without covering with water.

• Brussel sprouts are a favourite, especially with turkey at Christmas, chop the stems off and remove a few leaves before boiling or steaming until soft. Vegetables will take 40 - 60 minutes to cook, depending on customer preference. When the meat is almost ready turn the gas down and put the potatoes and carrots on the hob to boil.

• Optional choice; some people prefer a small amount of salt added to the vegetable water when boiling. A quarter of a teaspoon will add additional flavour if this is preferred.

• An alternative to cooking vegetables is to use a steamer.

• Here the potatoes are boiling in the saucepan and the carrots and cabbage are steaming on top of the saucepan. To save time parsnips have been peeled and sliced, part boiled and frozen.

• These can then be placed on a baking tray and will take approximately 30 - 40 minutes to cook thoroughly. Best enjoyed slightly crisp and well cooked. The meat joint is cooked once all juices run clear. Test using a knife or fork, look for the juices to run out. If there is any blood running out the joint will need additional time cooking.

• Pork, chicken, turkey must always be cooked thoroughly.

• Beef and lamb can be slightly under cooked and have a pink look once sliced.

• Once ready leave the meat joint covered for 10 - 20 minutes, this will allow the meat juices to settle and carving the joint will be easier. There are many options available from supermarkets for gravy. Follow the instructions on the packaging, adding a few spoons of the meat juices will add to the flavour.

• Use a plate to protect work surfaces when slicing the meat joint.

• A carving fork and knife are suitable, if an electric knife is available this makes carving easier. Serve meat

joint on a platter and vegetable in serving dishes.

• Alternatively your customer may prefer you to dish the meal onto a plate for them.

• Mustard and horseradish sauce are suitable compliments to beef, this is down to choice. The perfect compliment is Yorkshire puddings, these can be made easily by following a cook book, alternatively they are available ready to cook from frozen in supermarkets and only take 5 minutes to heat through. At Christmas

turkeys is a traditional joint of meat, follow instructions from the butcher if purchased fresh, or on the wrapping if purchased in a supermarket.

• If the turkey is frozen then it must be thoroughly defrosted before cooking.

• Thorough cooking of a turkey is very important; ensure you allow plenty of time. An average turkey can take 6 hours to cook correctly. While cooking, continually baste the breast with the meat juices in the tin, this will prevent the breast meat drying out. Covering the breast with slices of streaky bacon before cooking will help to keep the meat moist. If the legs begin to burn cover them with tin foil.

• A turkey crown cooks quicker; the crown is purely breast meat with no carcass (bones). A crown will carve easily and there is no waste.

• Cranberry sauce is a compliment to turkey, available ready made in the supermarket

• Pigs in blankets are also enjoyed by many with Christmas dinner, use small sausages and wrap each with a streaky bacon rasher, cook on a baking tray until golden brown. A joint of pork is popular for roast dinner.

• When cooking pork joints, do not cover, this will ensure the crackling is cooked to a crisp.• Stuffing and sausages go well with pork. Apple sauce compliments this joint and is available ready made in

supermarkets. Alternatively try making your own, follow a cook book recipe. And finally lamb, here is a leg of lamb which has been roasted, there are different lamb joints but the leg is always the sweetest and favoured by most.

• Mint sauce compliments lamb nicely.

• If you customer has fresh mint, pick the leaves from a few stems, place in a small jug, add a spoon of sugar and chop finely with scissors. Add a teaspoon of malt vinegar and top up with boiled water when ready to serve dinner.

• Season to your customer’s taste and serve.

What Salary do we pay? Our Live-in Carers are paid between £400 - £500 per week with some variance above and below due to the complexity of needs of the particular customer.

What areas do we cover for Live-in Care?Our Live-in Care service covers the whole of England, Wales and the Channel Islands.

How long do you have to work for at one time?We provide both temporary and permanent placements. In a temporary placement the Carer will not be assigned an ongoing customer and the length of the placement may vary dependant on the customer’s needs. In a permanent placement the carer is assigned an on going customer and is required to be available for a minimum of 6 weeks at a time.

What sort of people do we care for?We care for anyone over the age of 18 with various different levels of care needs.

Are our Carers self employed?

Carers are employed by the company on a zero hours contract.

How long will it take to start work after completing the training?We endeavour to get our Carers placed with a customer as soon after training as possible but this is dependant on how long it takes for the Carers to be made compliant with satisfactory references and a clear DBS. Placement will also depend on the customer requirements at the time. It is important for us to match Carers with customers so the Carer can build up a rapport with them and this is one of the reasons that may delay placement of a Carer.

How long does a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) take and how much does it cost?DBS varies depending on the particular candidate and their background. DBS can take anything from 2 days to 3 months and cannot be guaranteed in terms of time as each request is handled individually. The cost of the DBS is £50.

What qualifications can I gain? Carers can complete their QCF level 2 in Health and Social Care. Helping Hands employees complete different levels of QCF depending on their job role, with level 2 being relevant for the role of a care worker.

Recruitment FAQs

Chatter From Church Street:Don’t forget to keep an eye out for all the Chatter from the offices at Church Street. it’s emailed to you every fortnight and full of information/training tip and updates.

If your email address has changed or you have something that you feel needs to be communicated, your point of contact is gina.felton@helpinghands.co.uk

Special mention to Roy Fernandes for providing one of his photos for ‘we care’ - If you would like to put something in our ‘We Care’ magazine then please email gina.felton@helpinghands.co.uk. It can be anything from a photo to a nice story you would like to share. Many thanks.

We would love to know what you are up to with your customer over christmas. Please send your photos to Marketing@helpinghands.co.uk.

News

iii

CONTACT INFORMATION

Central Region

Heather Fenton Regional Manager01789 767160 heather.fenton@helpinghands.co.uk

Roz Ness Local Care Services Manager - West Midlands 01789 767998 rosalind.ness@helpinghands.co.uk

Liza Harrison Local Care Service Manager – Worcestershire01789 767960 marie.mckinley@helpinghands.co.uk/liza.harrison@helpinghands.co.uk

Monica Whitehurst Local Care Service Manager - Warwickshire 01789 767989 monica.whitehurst@helpinghands.co.uk

Julie-Ann Rose Local Care Services Manager – Devon and Cornwall 01579 550562julie-ann.rose@helpinghands.co.uk

Suzannah Cook Local Care Services Manager – Somerset and Wiltshire01225 433503suzannah.cook@helpinghands.co.uk

Sarah Peskett Assistant Care Manager 01789 767999 Weds & Thurs sarah.peskett@helpinghands.co.uk

Tanya Davis/Romulus Campan Assistant Care Manager 01789 767965tanya.davis@helpinghands.co.uk

Liz Badjie Assistant Care Manager01789 767173liz.badjie@helpinghands.co.uk

Claire Casson Regional Support Assistant01789 767956claire.casson@helpinghands.co.uk

North Region

Julie Perry Regional Manager and Registered Manager 0113 3229151 julie.perry@helpinghands.co.uk

Fiona Small Local Care Services Manager - Cheshire01270 444108 fiona.small@helpinghands.co.uk

Alison Taylor Local Care Services Manager - East Midlands 0115 896 7889 alison.taylor@helpinghands.co.uk

Amanda Campbell Local Care Services Manager - North East 0113 887 8981 amanda.campbell@helpinghands.co.uk

Jo McGuffie-Jordan Local Care Services Manager – Manchester 01204 325145 jo.mcguffie-jordan@helpinghands.co.uk

Tina Waite Assistant Care Manager0113 3229153 tina.waite@helpinghands.co.uk

Jackie Dunbar Assistant Care Manager0113 3229154Jacqueline.dunbar@helpinghands.co.uk

Chelsea Allen Regional Support Assistant0113 3229150 Part Timechelsea.allen@helpinghands.co.uk

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK TO YOUR CARE MANAGER AND THEY ARE NOT AVAILABLE, THEN PLEASE SPEAK TO ONE OF THE ASSISTANT CARE MANAGERS.

East Region

Karen Jackson Regional Manager01727 224171 karen.jackson@helpinghands.co.uk

Clare Turner Local Care Services Manager - East Anglia 01440 840465 clare.turner@helpinghands.co.uk

Linda Desborough Local Care Services Manager - North London & Essex 020 8150 7119 linda.desborough@helpinghands.co.uk

Angela Laurence Local Care Service Manager – Herefordshire 01727 229921 angela.laurence@helpinghands.co.uk

Bridie Williamson Local Care Services Manager - Oxfordshire Number TBC bridie.williamson@helpinghands.co.uk

Ian Clayfield Assistant Care Manager 01727 224173 ian.clayfield@helpinghands.co.uk

Kirsty Prendiville Assistant Care Manager 01727 224172kirsty.prendiville@helpinghands.co.uk

Dawn Mujuru Regional Support Administrator 01727 224174 dawn.mujuru@helpinghands.co.uk

South East Region

Julie Gillam Regional and Registered Manager 01372 231351julie.gillam@helpinghands.co.uk

Georgie Early Local Care Services Manager - Kent 01634 560757 georgie.early@helpinghands.co.uk

Angela Atkinson Local Care Services Manager - Sussex 01903 800038 angela.atkinson@helpinghands.co.uk

Jo Bruen Local Care Services – Hampshire and Dorset 023 8001 9660jo.bruen@helpinghands.co.uk

Melissa McSorley Assistant Care Manager 01372 231353melissa.mcsorley@helpinghands.co.uk

Jenna Coakes On Secondment - Assistant Care Manager/LCSM 01372 231354jenna.coakes@helpinghands.co.uk

Sam Kellali Temporary Regional Support Administrator01372 231355sam.kellali@helpinghands.co.uk

Amy O’Neill Live in Administrator01789 767168amy.oneill@helpinghands.co.uk