The Carer, 3, Carlton Mount, 2 Cranborne Road, Bournemouth (2025)

15/09/2025

Easier GP Access Continues To Be Public’s Top Priority For The NHS

New polling from the Health Foundation and Ipsos has highlighted that the public’s top priority for the NHS is making it easier to get GP appointments.

The survey, conducted in May 2025, found that GP access (39%) sits above improving A&E waiting times (34%) and reducing the number of staff leaving the NHS by improving working conditions (29%) among the public’s biggest priorities. Despite it being the government’s flagship health commitment, cutting waiting times for routine hospital services ranks only fifth for the public.

Access to GP services has consistently topped the public’s priorities over the last year of the survey. And there is increasing public concern about the pressures GPs are under - 82% of the public (the highest recorded) are concerned about the level of pressure that GP practices are facing (up from 78% in May 2024 and 73% in May 2022).

The biggest challenges people believe their GP practice is facing are to there not being enough doctors (41%), followed by the pressures from an ageing population (29%) and due to a lack of funding (27%).

The poll also shows that public confidence in the government’s handling of the NHS remains stubbornly low, even as some key performance indicators begin to improve. Just 16% of people agree that the government has the right policies in place for the NHS, which is unchanged since November 2024. However, the poll took place before publication of the 10 year health plan. It also remains more positive than immediately before the election, when just 8% supported the government’s plans for the NHS.

While public views of the standard of care in the health service remain negative overall, there are some signs that perceptions of NHS care are slowly improving. 13% think that the general standard of care got better in the last 12 months (slightly up from 9% in May 2024), which is the highest recorded since 2020. Views of local services are more positive, with 46% of the public agreeing that their local NHS is providing them with a good service and 28% disagreeing, which is down from 32% in November 2024.

The government has made recovering the 18-week standard for routine care its top priority for the NHS in England by the end of the parliament. There are signs that progress is being made with the waiting list falling to its lowest in over two years, from 7.6 million to 7.4 million. Despite this, more people in England believe the waiting list has increased in the 12 months since the election (37%) than decreased (24%) - highlighting that people are yet to feel that things are going in the right direction.

Consistently low levels of public satisfaction in the NHS have not, however, resulted in a loss of faith in the NHS model - a universal, tax-funded health service freely available to all. While there have been some recent high-profile calls to consider alternative funding models, this view is not shared by voters across the political spectrum in the UK. 86% think the NHS should be free at the point of delivery, 85% think the NHS should provide a comprehensive service available to everyone, and 83% think it should be primarily funded through taxation.

For social care, levels of public confidence remain negative overall. Only 8% agree that the government has the right policies for social care, with 51% disagreeing (compared with 43% in November 2024). However, this marks an improvement in the public's perception of the previous government's approach to social care, with 63% disagreeing that the government had the right policies in May 2024, prior to the general election.

People in England generally think the state should have bigger role in funding care than it does now, but low public awareness and understanding of social care – including uncertainty about who should pay for it – remain significant barriers to reform.

Tim Gardner, Assistant Director of Policy at the Health Foundation, said,
‘Overall, the public mood on health and care remains largely downbeat but there are signs that perceptions are slowly improving. Views of local health services are more positive than perceptions of how the NHS is performing overall, especially among people with recent experience of accessing care.

‘The challenge for government will be convincing the public that their plans will deliver tangible improvements in the areas they care most about. While the government has made improving NHS waiting times its headline pledge, the public's top priority remains easier access to GP services with tackling elective waiting times only fifth among their biggest concerns. Tackling unacceptably long waits for routine hospital treatment is essential, but resources are constrained and trade-offs are inevitable, so the risk is that slower progress is made on delivering the priorities that matter most to the public.’

Read More: https://thecareruk.com/easier-gp-access-continues-to-be-publics-top-priority-for-the-n…

New polling from the Health Foundation and Ipsos has highlighted that the public’s top priority for the NHS is making it easier to get GP appointments.

15/09/2025

Government Launches Major Survey to Capture Care Workers’ Experiences

A comprehensive national survey has been launched to gather insights from care professionals across England, offering workers the opportunity to influence future policy decisions.

The initiative, developed through collaboration between Skills for Care, the Department of Health and Social Care, Ipsos research organisation, and the University of Kent, aims to capture detailed feedback on key workplace issues affecting the adult social care sector.

Care professionals working in all environments – from residential homes and nursing facilities to community settings – are invited to participate in the research. The survey welcomes responses from staff in various roles, including care assistants, senior carers, nurses, managers, personal assistants, and council adult social care employees.

The research explores several critical aspects of care work, including:

- Compensation and employment terms
- Working environment and conditions
- Staff wellbeing and job satisfaction
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Team dynamics and collaborative working

Oonagh Smyth, Chief Executive of Skills for Care, emphasised the importance of widespread participation:
"This survey provides a vital platform for care workers to influence improvements in our sector. The insights gathered will help shape decisions that benefit both care professionals and the people who rely on their support."

The research has also received backing from Professor Deborah Sturdy, England's Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care, who highlighted the survey's potential to drive meaningful change. She noted that responses will directly inform government understanding of what care workers value in their roles and which areas require attention.

The survey is open to anyone who works in a care-related role in adult social care – no matter what your job is. That includes personal assistants too. The more people who take part, the better we can understand what it’s really like to work in care.

If you’re a manager, supervisor or help hire staff, please share the survey with your team too.

This survey was created in partnership with Skills for Care, Department of Health and Social Care, Ipsos and the University of Kent. Care workers interested in participating can access the survey through here https://insights.ipsosinteractive.com/mrIWeb/mrIWeb.dll

The research is expected to provide valuable data to support evidence-based policy decisions affecting the care workforce.

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A comprehensive national survey has been launched to gather insights from care professionals across England, offering workers the opportunity to influence

15/09/2025

Its Professional Care Workers’ Week 2025!

The Care Workers’ Charity is proudly marking its eighth annual Professional Care Workers’ Week (PCWW), running from Friday 12 to Friday 19 September 2025, a week dedicated to celebrating the skilled and essential work of care professionals across the UK.

In a sector confronted by low pay, funding issues and high vacancy rates, PCWW aims to shift the narrative by affirming that care work is indeed professional work and should be recognised as such. Co-produced with the Care Worker Advisory Board, this year’s week-long programme brings frontline voices to the forefront, featuring free, online, and in-person panels, information sessions, and collaborative discussions with care workers, managers and sector leaders.

Why “Professional” Matters

The term “Professional” is central to PCWW, as it highlights the skilled and essential nature of care work. Despite their critical roles, care workers often face challenges such as low pay, inconsistent training, and high turnover, with 152,000 vacancies in the sector each day. It’s time to change this narrative.

Professionalisation is about:

- Acknowledging the diverse skills and expertise of care workers.
- Offering fair wages and pay progression in line with training and responsibilities
- Providing clear career pathways and professional development.
- Recognising the immense societal value of care workers.

For those receiving care, professionalisation brings trust, safety, accountability, and transparency. Professional Care Workers’ Week is not just a celebration; it’s a movement to elevate the status of care workers, showcase their achievements, and foster best practice sharing across the UK.

What to Expect During PCWW 2025?

This year’s event will feature sessions on:

- The future of adult social care
- The role of AI and technology in the sector
- Why ESG matters
- Wellbeing (emotional, financial and physical)
- Workforce safety
- Care worker and migrant care workers rights

Alongside these discussions, PCWW is a celebration of care workers who support those in need every day, regardless of circumstances. The week promises rich opportunities for collaboration, learning, and planning the future of social care.

PCWW is encouraging care providers to show appreciation for their teams with small tokens of thanks like cards, cakes, parties, or certificates. For more ideas, download a Afternoon Tea for the CWC Fundraising Pack, the PCWW Information Pack and a Wear It Orange Day Information and Fundraising Pack.

The ‘professional’ framing underscores a pressing need: care workers deserve recognition for their skill, fair wages, clearer career progression and respect. Professionalisation promises to boost trust, accountability and safety for those receiving care.

This initiative comes amid a broader push for greater recognition of social care’s societal value. Ahead of the 2024 General Election, key voices across the sector emphasised how adult social care underpins health outcomes, local economies, community cohesion, unpaid carers and rights; arguing the sector deserves to be viewed not merely as “broken,” but as the key to transforming health and social care.

By combining celebration with advocacy, PCWW 2025 contributes to the ongoing effort to shift social care from the background into the mainstream. It’s not just a week of events: it’s a statement that care is a profession, and society must recognise and respect it accordingly.

Check out The Care Workers’ Charity page for more information on how to get involved: https://www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/professional-care-workers-week-2025/

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The Care Workers’ Charity is proudly marking its eighth annual Professional Care Workers’ Week (PCWW), running from Friday 12 to Friday 19 September 2025, a

15/09/2025

Miniature Horses And Country Music Tribute Stars Of The Show As Chippenham Home Raises Over £300 From Autumn Fayre

The residents enjoyed spending time both Bryan and Vino, the horses from Happy Hooves Therapy Horses

A Chippenham home welcomed in the autumn season by hosting a fayre, from which they managed to raise over £300.

MHA The Fairways opened its doors to the community and managed to attract more than 60 people to the home.

The home arranged for some live entertainment in the form of a Dolly Parton tribute act as well as having two special guests Bryan and Vino, two miniature horses from Happy Hooves Therapy Horses.

There were also various stalls including a honey and sewing stall as well as a raffle and tombola.

The total amount raised was £304.00 which will go towards the homes amenities fund, from which trips and activities will be arranged.

MHA The Fairways provides residential and residential dementia care for 60 residents.

Tracey Curd, administration manager said:
“Our residents really enjoyed the autumn fayre.

“Having the entertainer singing some classic country music mixed with Bryan and Vino visiting was definitely the highlight.

“We had a good turnout, and it was nice to see so many people enjoying themselves.

“Family members of residents were very happy with how it was arranged and gave us some lovely feedback.

“It was a real team effort, and I want to thank everyone for their support on the day.

“The weather was good which always helps, and we are very proud of the amount we managed to raise

“The funds will go straight into our amenities fund, and we are planning some trips for our residents

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The residents enjoyed spending time both Bryan and Vino, the horses from Happy Hooves Therapy Horses

15/09/2025

Local Care Home Celebrates Emergency Services Day

Residents and staff at Hazel Lodge care home in Battle, honoured their local emergency services by inviting their local fire crews to the home to enjoy a delicious Fish and Chip Lunch prepared by the home’s hospitality team and to thank them all for their selfless service keeping the community safe.

September 9th is the UK’s Emergency Services Day, or 999 Day. The day gives people a chance to show their appreciation for the two million people serving communities in the emergency services either as employees or volunteers.

Rikki-Gene Bury, General Manager at the home, said:
“Our local police officers, ambulance crews and firefighters put their lives on the line every day to save our lives, loved ones and homes, so we wanted to take the opportunity to let them know just how much we appreciate all that they do for us. We think they are truly wonderful human beings.”

Alan, who lives at Hazel Lodge, said:
“I can’t imagine how terrifying it must be to go into a burning building to rescue someone or having to deal with a major incident, I think all our emergency services are amazing and I can’t thank them enough for their service. What would we do without them?”

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Residents and staff at Hazel Lodge care home in Battle, honoured their local emergency services by inviting their local fire crews to the home to enjoy a

15/09/2025

Alzheimer’s Society Tackles Healthcare Inequalities For People Living With Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Society 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, w…

The Alzheimer’s Society has awarded £2m to a groundbreaking research project designed to tackle healthcare inequalities and improve access to care for people

13/09/2025

Penhurst Gardens Care Home Backs Chipping Norton Gala Raising £2,500 for Oxfordshire Mind

Penhurst Gardens Care Home, part of Porthaven Care Homes has announcedits sponsorship of the recent fundraising gala hosted by Chipping Norton Bowls Club, which successfully raised an estimated £2,500 for the mental health charity Oxfordshire Mind.

The gala, which took place at Chipping Norton Bowls Club, brought together the local community for a day of entertainment, friendly competition, and fundraising. All proceeds raised will go directly to Oxfordshire Mind, helping to fund vital services and support for those experiencing mental health challenges.

On the bowling green, 22 teams competed across multiple rounds. The winning team included a father and son duo from Chipping Norton Bowls Club, Martin and Alfie Acock, alongside Craig Morphet of Carterton Bowls Club. Runners-up included Howard Watts, Katherine Hawes-Watts and Laura and Lorraine Kuhler from Headington Bowls Club. In a generous gesture of goodwill, the winners of the day donated their £300 prize, gifted by Penhurst Gardens Care Home, back to the Oxfordshire Mind Charity.

Lynne Elliott, home manager at Porthaven’s Penhurst Gardens Care Home, said: “Sponsoring this year’s gala was a privilege for Penhurst Gardens, as it allowed us to give back to the local community that we’re so proud to be part of while supporting the vital work of Mind.

The day was a real celebration for Chipping Norton. From bowls to music, great food and plenty of family fun, I enjoyed meeting friends old and new as we helped raise funds for such an important cause.”

David Lattimore, chairman of the Chipping Norton Bowls Club, said:
“Our fundraising gala was a tremendous success, thanks not only to the commitment of our members but also the generosity of the local community, organisations and businesses who supported us.

“Bowls is often seen as a game for older people, but nothing could be further from the truth. It’s a sport for all ages, from eight to ninety, and events like this help to break down that misconception.

“We are especially grateful to Lynne and the team at Penhurst Gardens Care Home, who contributed to the day. Without them, this event would not have been possible. Plans are already underway for next year’s gala and another worthy charity beneficiary - so watch this space!”

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Penhurst Gardens Care Home, part of Porthaven Care Homes has announcedits sponsorship of the recent fundraising gala hosted by Chipping Norton Bowls Club,

13/09/2025

Eastham Care Home Wellbeing Coordinator Completes 100 KM Ultra Marathon for Alzheimer’s Society

Eastham Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group celebrated the incredible achievement of Sam De Wet, Wellbeing Coordinator, who successfully completed a gruelling 100 KM ultra marathon across the South Downs on 06 September 2025, raising vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society.

The challenging route, which combined steep climbs and stunning views, tested runners both physically and mentally. For Sam, the experience was deeply rewarding. “It was challenging but I enjoyed it,” she said. Despite the immense distance, Sam is already looking forward to tackling another ultra marathon next year.

Sam’s motivation stemmed from her daily work supporting residents at Eastham Care Home, who are living with dementia. “The residents at Eastham Care Home, inspire me every day, and I did this challenge for them,” she explained.

A spokesperson for Eastham Care Home, shared their pride in her achievement:
“We are incredibly proud of Sam’s achievement. Her dedication to our residents and the wider dementia community is truly inspiring. This ultra marathon represents not just a personal triumph, but a testament to the compassion and commitment that drives our team every day.”

Sam’s journey into endurance running began earlier this year with a standard marathon completed in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research. Inspired by that experience, she set her sights on the even greater challenge of a 100 KM ultra marathon, this time in support of Alzheimer’s Society.

The atmosphere on the day was described as challenging but enjoyable, with the highlight being the moment Sam crossed the finish line after 100 demanding kilometres.

Funds raised from Sam’s remarkable effort will go towards Alzheimer’s Society, supporting vital care, research, and services for individuals and families affected by dementia.

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Eastham Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group celebrated the incredible achievement of Sam De Wet, Wellbeing Coordinator, who successfully completed a

12/09/2025

Chancellor Rachel Reeves MP visits Acacia Court Care Home for Cake and Conversations

Residents and colleagues at HC-One’s Acacia Court Care Home in Pudsey, West Yorkshire, welcomed Rachel Reeves, MP for Leeds West and Pudsey and Chancellor of the Exchequer.

The visit was hosted by James Tugendhat, Chief Executive Officer of HC-One and Hannah Carrington, General Site Manager at Acacia Court, who accompanied the Chancellor on a guided tour of the 41-bed residential and residential dementia care home.

Ms. Reeves joined residents and colleagues in the lounge, where she enjoyed a cuppa and a slice of cake while chatting about daily life at Acacia Court. The relaxed conversation offered an opportunity to hear first-hand about the positive experiences of those living and working at the home, as well as its vital role at the heart of the Pudsey community.

Residents warmly welcomed the Chancellor, sharing their appreciation for the home and its colleagues while enjoying a friendly game of dominoes – a moment that captured the warm and supportive atmosphere Acacia Court is proud to provide. The visit also highlighted HC-One’s ongoing commitment to delivering kind, high-quality care and building strong community connections.

Hannah Carrington, General Site Manager at HC-One’s Acacia Court Care Home, said:
“It was such a special day for us, and it meant a great deal that the Chancellor chose to visit Acacia Court. Our residents really valued the chance to share their personal stories and raise the issues that matter most to them, and it was wonderful to see how engaged she was in listening to their experiences. Moments like this go beyond a simple visit, they help build important connections between care homes and politicians, helping to ensure that the voices of older people in our community are truly heard.”

Rachel Reeves, MP for Leeds West and Pudsey and Chancellor of the Exchequer, commented:
"It was a pleasure to meet with Acacia Court in Pudsey who are doing excellent work providing dignity and comfort to residents."

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Residents and colleagues at HC-One’s Acacia Court Care Home in Pudsey, West Yorkshire, welcomed Rachel Reeves, MP for Leeds West and Pudsey and Chancellor of

12/09/2025

Care Home Residents Deliver ‘Cakes And Cards Of Gratitude’ To Emergency Services

Care home residents across the south have taken part in open days, visits and other activities to celebrate the work of the emergency services in their communities.

Colten Care homes in Dorset, West Sussex and Hampshire were among those marking the annual Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day.

It aims to educate the public about how ‘blue light’ responders such as the police, fire and ambulance services, and mountain rescue and coastguard, operate, and to promote responsible contact from those who request their help.

Among the homes that organised visits to local police stations was Wellington Grange in Chichester.

After meeting Home Manager Hayley Geddes, who presented them with a card and chocolates, officers returned the compliment with a trip to the Broyle Road home to meet residents and talk about their jobs.

At Dorset homes Castle View in Poundbury, Bourne View in Poole and Amberwood House in Ferndown, the focus was on the fire service.

Castle View resident Betty Morris took a trishaw ride to deliver a box of cakes to her local fire station, while all three homes also hosted visits by community fire officers for afternoon tea.

One of the residents who welcomed firefighters to Bourne View, 101-year-old Nora Lowe, had a close-up look at a fire engine with crew explaining how it operates.

On their Amberwood House visit, firemen brought antique uniforms and equipment, some dating back to before the First World War.

The home’s Companionship Team Leader Maddee Baker said:
“The residents were fascinated as they looked over the historic items, including the fireman’s whistle, brass hats and hose ends, and spent time reminiscing about the war years and sharing memories of times gone by.”

Two Colten Care homes, The Aldbury in Poole and Belmore Lodge in Lymington, chose to show their support for local RNLI lifeboat stations.

From Belmore Lodge, residents Louisa McIntyre, 94, and Paul Cavanagh, 103, both yachting enthusiasts in their younger years, delivered treats and cards to Lymington RNLI.

Paul, a member of the nearby Lymington Yacht Club for nearly 60 years, said:
“Our visit brought back lovely memories of being at sea, but at the same time, as sailors, we are only too aware of the lifesaving work that the RNLI does day in, day out.”

Residents at The Aldbury meanwhile took a tour of the training pool at Poole RNLI, handing out thank-you cards and homemade cookies, and called in at their local fire station too.

Melissa Siat, Companionship Team member at The Aldbury, said:
“We were very proud to thank our local emergency responders with cakes and cards of gratitude. Our residents made an artsy thank-you collage on the cards which we handed out to RNLI lifeguards and firemen alike.”

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Care home residents across the south have taken part in open days, visits and other activities to celebrate the work of the emergency services in their

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