UKHCA member organisations receive our bi-monthly magazine Homecarer and complimentary online factsheets.

Many of the documents on this page may need Adobe^® Acrobat Reader^®, or similar, to be installed on your computer.
If you do not already have this software on your computer it can be downloaded free from Adobe.

Our next government has a significant opportunity to place the future well-being of older and disabled people at the heart of our nation's vision for a society which values every citizen.

See the online version of the Manifesto here.

This manifesto urges political parties, and candidates standing for election, to commit to ensuring almost one million older and disabled people receiving care in their own homes can remain healthy and independent, while also enabling family members to combine caring responsibilities with family life and employment.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 626

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue we take a look at the CQC's State of Care report for England; UKHCA CEO Jane Townson reflects on the UKHCA Conference at the Care Show; Anna Dabek of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP analyses holiday pay for providers, Diabetes UK give us a break down of what homecare workers need to look out in relation to the condition; Towergate Insurance provides insight into cybercrime risks by homecare providers; and we round up policy issues in our National reports from around the UK as well as summarise provider and commercial member news.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 625

UKHCA writes to Dr Helen Paterson, Chief Executive of Walsall Council, to raise concern about the council's use of per-minute-billing for homecare services and low rates paid for state-funded care. The letter includes a request under the Freedom of Information Act for the council to provide any calculation it has undertaken on the cost of care, and whether the council has undertaken a cost of care exercise with its local providers.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 622

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This also appeared in September's Homecarer magazine

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 624

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Statistics show the Care Quality Commission is more frequently exercising its criminal powers. Here Tim Coolican, regulatory team lead at Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, Registered Managers and providers.

This also appear in September's edition of Homecarer magazine.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 623

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This guidance has been designed to help your organisation write or review your own safeguarding policy so that if an incident occurs, everyone understands what steps should be taken.

As with other policies and procedures, carrying out a regular audit of your safeguarding policy is essential. This document includes a suggested safeguarding audit, posing questions which should help you keep your policies up to date.

This guidance compliments UKHCA’s Safeguarding training.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 609

This report summarises UKHCA's work on behalf of members and activities in pursuit of its mission during 2018-19.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 578

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue we say it’s time to get ready for a ‘No Deal’ Brexit; UKHCA CEO Jane Townson reflects on her first three months leading UKHCA; we review The Access Group’s report calling for longer homecare visits; we report on DHSC’s new phase of the recruitment drive; Tim Coolican of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP warns CQC is flexing its legal muscle: Towergate Insurance consider the rising cost of employee injuries; human resources specialists The HR Dept discuss employee suspension; My Learning Cloud describe what gives them the edge in a crowded market; we round up policy issues in our National reports from around the UK and include a summary of our Impact Statement 2018-19 as a centre page pull-out.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 620

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

For many homecare providers, care management software has become an integral part of the way their organisation delivers high quality care. UKHCA were interested to find out how homecare providers use care management software, what they use and how they think it could be improved or evolved.

Between February and March 2018 UKHCA surveyed member organisations on their use of care management software. This was defined as any software, webware etc. their business uses to help deliver homecare to people who receive care.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 618

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The recent survey of UKHCA member organisations on their use of technology suggests that, for the majority of homecare providers, call scheduling or rostering systems are the “engine” of their services - offering an integrated system for staff management, client-management, scheduling, invoicing and payroll.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 619

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA's briefing on apprenticeships looks at current information and advice on apprenticeships, including the apprenticeship levy for larger employers and using funds in a digital account to pay for apprenticeships. The factsheet also considers using co-investment to fund apprenticeships, how apprenticeships fit with Workforce Development Funding, and incentives for employers to take on apprentices, among other topics.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 546

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

With the likelihood of a 'No Deal' Brexit increasing, Terry Donohoe, Policy Officer, and Colin Angel, Policy and Campaigns Director, have produced guidance for UKHCA members to help them plan for this eventuality.

The guidance summarises the choices facing the UK, as it prepares to leave the EU, and identifies some of the areas UK homecare providers might wish to consider as part of their Business Continuity Plans.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 617

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

An important part of supporting people to live independently at home is providing care overnight. Although night care is highly valued by people who use services and their families it does place additional demands on the care workforce. UKHCA’s Factsheet on Night working in Homecare looks at night care services, what rules apply on rest breaks, mitigating the effect of night work, steps workers should take before, during and after night work, and switching from night work to day work.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 604

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

As councils continue to impose freezes or impose cuts to fee rates, UKHCA preferred solicitors Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have put together a list of legal and practical tips for members. Different factors will be relevant to different stages of the life of the contract (from tender to exit) but we hope members will find the tips helpful in the latest round of fee negotiations and setting. This factsheet is the second version and reflects the law as at August 2015, which may alter on particular points as case law develops, and is free for UKHCA members.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 454

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this article, which appeared in the July 2019 edition of Homecarer, Colin Angel, Policy Director, UKHCA, discusses how to use social media as part of a wider communication strategy.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 615

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Careworkers often use their own cars when out delivering care. In this article, which appeared in the July 2019 edition of Homecarer, Towergate Insurance Brokers discuss the insurance implications. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 614

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Here Adrian Leonard of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses how to successfully acquire a homecare business, in an article that appeared in the July 2019 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 616

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue we comment on the recent Panorama ‘Crisis in Care’ programmes; UKHCA Chair Trevor Brocklebank considers the perfect storm of challenges facing social care; UKHCA Policy Director Colin Angel discusses using social media; we summarise our response to the Low Pay Commission; Adrian Leonard of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP gives top tips for a successful homecare business acquisition; Towergate Insurance consider motor insurance; Darren Housden of Animo Business Consulting says help is at hand for new businesses; we describe our new and revised resources, and round up policy issues in our National reports.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 613

Supporting people to take their medicines is a significant aspect of homecare services. Our ‘Homecare medication policy guidance - summary’ describes what a medication policy should contain, and gives hints to organisations drafting their own policy, with links to useful resources.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 612

This document provides a detailed, retrospective overview of the domiciliary care market in the United Kingdom.

The statisitics contained within this document will be of use to researchers, journalists, management consultants, people considering entering the domiciliary care market and providers of domiciliary care.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 611

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The unexpected failure of a service user to answer the door when a care worker arrives, or the inability to gain access by the usual method, or the service user not being at home when expected to be, should always be regarded as a potentially serious situation requiring immediate investigation and action by careworkers and their managers. UKHCA's policy guidance helps members to review their existing 'No reply' policies and procedures, and develop new ones. Revised June 2019.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 267

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA preferred solicitors Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have prepared Frequently Asked Questions for live in care providers on National Minimum Wage compliance, which address complicated issues live-in homecare providers encounter when seeking to ensure compliance with the National Minimum Wage (“NMW”) Regulations, remind providers of their key obligations under NMW legislation and provide answers to the most common questions providers ask of UKHCA. Revised in April 2019 to include legal changes to payslips.

UKHCA members are advised to take advice from our legal helpline, operated by Anthony Collins Solicitors, on their individual circumstances when using the FAQs.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 569

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

What happens if a potential recruit has a historic conviction? Libby Hubbard of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses an important Supreme Court decision, in an article that appeared in May 2019 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 608

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Veronica Monks, Policy Officer, UKHCA, passes on expert advice on hypothermia which providers can discuss with their careworkers, in an article that appeared in March 019 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 607

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Non or late payment of debts can seriously affect the cash flow of a homecare organisation. Amy Callahan-Page of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses what providers can do when they are owed money by a local authority, in an article that appeared in March 2019 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 606

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We voice concern that Brexit is disrupting the domestic agenda; UKHCA Chair Trevor Brocklebank calls for the focus to return to social care; UKHCA Policy Officer Veronica Monks considers adult social care Green Paper options for England; we look at research on homecare workers' motivation by Nottingham University; Libby Hubbard of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP examines a recent case on historic convictions; Towergate Insurance Brokers describe key person insurance cover; Oliver Spence of First City Nursing and Care, and Colin Angel, UKHCA Policy Director, discuss commissioning and providing care; we say Brexit negotiations must make allowance for the workforce in Wales; call for the political impasse to end in Northern Ireland and for kindness to 'auld grannie' and the ageing population in Scotland.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 605

To help homecare providers to ensure they are meeting the National Minimum Wage requirements within their workforce, UKHCA's recommended solicitors Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have prepared a National Minimum Wage Toolkit.

The toolkit sets out the current law with practical examples, and gives providers a step-by-step compliance assessment tool. It also contains a practical section for homecare providers written by UKHCA Policy Director Colin Angel on possible actions to achieve compliance with the National Minimum Wage.

The Toolkit is frequently updated to reflect changes in legislation and NMW rates. The latest updates included September 2017 to include NMW rates and changes on sleep-ins, and April 2019 to include further changes on sleep-in caselaw and NMW rates.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 422

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA’s Medication Policy Template, has been developed to assist organisations to write their own, comprehensive medication policy. This Template is based on the latest UKHCA Medication Policy Guidance Document.

Note that the UKHCA Medication Policy Template requires Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 or later to be installed on your machine before you install the UKHCA Medication Policy Template. This Framework is included as part of the Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 which is included in Windows 10, 8 and 7 (installation instructions are available here, in the section "Enable the .NET Framework 3.5 in Control Panel") and available free from Microsoft for earlier editions of Windows.

Further information including terms and conditions of use.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 151

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Our factsheet for members on smoking and homecare outlines the main smoking ban provisions across the UK, considers the issues that arise when service users smoke at home and looks at steps to achieving a smoke-free environment for employees. Our factsheet supplements existing guidance with hints on negotiating with users who are reluctant to refrain from smoking and other practical steps to help employers fulfil their obligations to maintain the health of their homecare workers. Produced in 2009 and revised in March 2019.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 278

Report summarising the findings of a survey of homecare providers in Wales, conducted by UKHCA, with support from the Welsh Government, Social Care Wales, CIW and other regional partners. The survey covered a wide range of topics, including zero-hours contracts, careworker registration, and the new regulatory inspection regime.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 602

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We announce the appointment of Roger Berry as our new Chief Executive; Bridget Warr CBE says the outlook for homecare is bright, in her last column as CEO; we launch our new discounted eLearning facility, which will help with staff training; Amy Callahan-Page of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP explains how providers can recover debts from local authorities; Towergate Insurance Brokers consider effective risk management; we report on our survey of homecare providers in Wales, carried out with support from Welsh Government, Social Care Wales, CIW and regional partners; describe additional funding in Northern Ireland to ease winter pressures and concerns in Scotland about Brexit; Joanna Grant of Interserve introduces a guide on managing the transition from child to adult care provision; and we launch our updated portability of disclosure and barring checks guidance for members in England.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 603

UKHCA has updated guidance on using portability in homecare services in England and includes reference to the Update Service. The guidance applies to adult social care services only. Updated February 2019.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 300

This 27-minute on-line audio-visual webinar designed to help councils and providers establish the true cost of homecare in their local area from April 2019.

Presented by UKHCA’s Policy Director, Colin Angel, the webinar covers:

-Why getting the price right is important for both councils and providers;
-How a minimum price for homecare is calculated;
-Some important issues which make a real difference to the price of homecare;
-Links to other materials and resources.

You can also watch a recording of the webinar at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=it0fKUpgCtU&feature=youtu.be

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 561

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This guidance is designed to summarise the various regulators' positions on the employment of careworkers aged 16 and 17. Guidance revised January 2019.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 140

UKHCA’s minimum price for homecare services of £18.93 per hour from April 2019 allows full compliance with the National Minimum Wage and the delivery of sustainable homecare services to local authorities and the NHS.

The calculations in this latest version have been updated for the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, and the second planned increase in minimum pension contributions (both of which come into force in April 2019). Equivalent calculations for the voluntary UK Living Wage, the Scottish Living Wage and the London Living Wage between November 2018 and October 2019 are also included. UKHCA is committed to using the best available data to support our calculations and version 6.0 also uses new assumptions for careworkers’ travel time and mileage costs.

UKHCA Policy Director, Colin Angel, said: "It is essential that a viable regulated homecare sector is available to support the care of older and disabled people who choose to remain at home. The prices councils pay for care must cover the costs of the workforce, including - as a minimum - full-compliance with statutory minimum wage levels and the costs of running a regulated care service. UKHCA’s Minimum Price for Homecare provides a thorough rationale for the costs of state-funded care and is highlighted in Government’s Care and Support Statutory Guidance (for England) as an approach which can be adopted by councils."

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 434

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Surveillance technology is increasingly being used in the home to keep people safe and monitor their care. Eeshma Qazi of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses the implications for homecare providers and their staff.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 601

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Interested in franchising your homecare business? Consultant Pam Gordon of The Franchising Centre offers some valuable advice on this important step, in an article that appeared in the January 2019 edition of Homecarer magazine.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 600

The Homecarer magazine Guide for Contributors January 2019 has been prepared for editorial contributors. With copy deadlines and a range of tips and information, the guide aims to help contributors produce articles that meet Homecarer's editorial guidelines, and the needs of our homecare provider readers. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 372

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Bridget Warr CBE, in her penultimate column as UKHCA’s CEO, comments on delay and confusion in Government policy and the effect on the homecare sector; Eeshma Qazi of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses CCTV surveillance; Towergate Insurance consider preventing injury to careworkers; the Department of Health and Social Care preview the recruitment campaign in England; Pam Gordon of The Franchising Centre offers help on franchising in homecare; James Whynacht, Policy Officer, discusses the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman’s report on complaints; and we look at the findings of our Homecare Deficit report in the devolved nations.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 599

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have produced a report on rest periods under the Working Time Regulations 1998 (“WTR”). The guidance note, edited in August 2017, looks at employer obligations to provide rest periods under the WTR, available exemptions and compensatory rest periods.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 598

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Better sharing of information will benefit professionals and improve quality of care, says Keith Strahan of NHS Digital, describing some initiatives which promote data security and use digital technology to connect health and care services in England. (Article which appeared in the September 2018 edition of Homecarer magazine.)

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 597

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Towergate Insurance consider malware and data security breaches, and whether homecare businesses are sufficiently well protected, in their article which appeared in the November 2018 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 596

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have provided an update to the sleep-in saga, following the Court of Appeal in Mencap, in the November 2018 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 595

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

'It's time to put your winter planning into action', is an article in the November 2018 edition of Homecarer, which considers what providers should do to prepare for adverse weather conditions.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 593

'Spotting the signs of sepsis - guide for homecare workers', is an article by The UK Sepsis Trust in November 2018 edition of Homecarer, which considers how homecare workers can recognise the signs of sepsis, and which people are more vulnerable to the condition.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 594

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We launch our Homecare Deficit 2018 report on average prices commissioners pay for homecare across the UK; we report on our recent Conference at the Kia Oval, where Care Minister Caroline Dinenage MP addressed delegates; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr reviews recent developments and welcomes our new Board members; Sarah Harnett of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses sleep ins and workers' pay; Towergate Insurance describe protecting your businesses from cyber-crime; The UK Sepsis Trust explains how homecare workers can spot the signs of sepsis; Veronica Monks, UKHCA Policy Officer, looks at Making It Real; we give readers top tips on winter planning; James Whynacht, Policy Officer, UKHCA, discusses workforce aspirations in Northern Ireland, Terry Donohoe, Policy Officer, UKHCA, considers the Brexit challenge for Scotland’s providers and we celebrate the success of members at the Social Care Wales Accolades.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 592

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 591

This document will help homecare providers to prepare for the many challenges that can arise when providing care during the winter season. All homecare providers should have a plan in place on how to cope if adverse weather conditions affect care delivery.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 590

UKHCA’s major report on homecare exposes the scale of underfunding of a fragile state-funded sector across England’s nine government regions and in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Using data obtained under Freedom of Information legislation, UKHCA found that the average prices paid for homecare in the UK is just £16.12 per hour, almost £2 per hour less than UKHCA’s Minimum Price for Homecare of £18.01 per hour.

UKHCA calculates that the UK’s homecare sector needs at least £402 million per year to ensure that homecare workers receive the statutory National Living Wage, while also ensuring that homecare providers can meet their statutory obligations.

However, the size of the deficit this year would be £921 million if national governments and local councils were to commit to raising the status of the homecare workforce to at least the independently calculated Real Living Wage.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 589

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Sarah Knight, Senior Associate, Solicitor Advocate (Civil) at Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, writes about the potential commission of criminal offences for breaches of care regulation, in an article that appeared in the May 2018 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 584

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Emma Riley of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, explains what the procurement process is and what it could mean for homecare providers, in an article that appeared in January 2018 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 582

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The recent Oxfam issue has highlighted the unsatisfactory practice that has developed across the HR world in respect of the giving of references. It appears that significant issues of misconduct have not been disclosed by Oxfam and many in HR will have been involved in agreeing a bland, heavily caveated reference where the reality is the referee would not re-employ. Matt Wort, Partner at Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, discusses the options open to social care providers, in an article that appeared in the July 2018 edition of Homecarer magazine.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 585

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Kirsty Wainwright-Noble, Head of Sales and Marketing, Caring Professions Division puts Business Interruption under the spotlight for homecare providers and outlines some essential information and advice that should prove very handy if you should find yourself facing any kind of business interruption, in an article that appeared in the July edition of 2018 Homecarer magazine.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 587

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The law governing how businesses in the UK (including all social care providers) protect, use and store people’s information changed from May 2018. UKHCA preferred solicitors Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discuss the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation (‘GDPR’), in an article that appeared in the March 2018 edition of Homecarer magazine.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 583

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The aim of the Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill, which had its second reading in July, is to streamline the current process for approving a deprivation of liberty in England and Wales. Kirsty MacMillan of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses what this would mean for homecare providers, in an article that appeared in the September 2018 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 586

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Liability claims have the potential to cause your business real harm. Towergate Insurance consider the insurance aspects of such claims, in an article that appeared in the November 2017 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 588

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this article, which appeared in November 2017 edition of Homecarer, Sarah Knight, Senior Associate: Social Advocate (Civil) and Daniel Lawlor, Trainee, Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, consider what fire safety means for care workers and the legal duties of homecare providers.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 581

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA have published Inspection Guidance, prepared for UKHCA’s member organisations in England.

The aim of the guidance is to demystify some of the processes and assist members with preparing for day the inspector arrives, rather than it feeling like a daunting prospect. The emphasis throughout the guidance is on preparation, not just for the day itself, but also on being able to deliver a service where quality, excellent care and better outcomes for people are routinely achieved.

Business owners, registered managers and other staff will find it useful and help them move from a reactive to a proactive service, always ready to demonstrate excellence in homecare provision no matter when an inspection occurs.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 580

This resource has been developed by the London Fire Brigade in association with UKHCA. It answers questions on fire safety as it relates to homecare and originates from questions posed by members to the UKHCA helpline. The resource looks at a number of area including: fire prevention, identifying a fire risk and carrying out a fire risk assessment.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 579

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

While regrettable, there are occasions when a package of care needs to be terminated. For example, where there are unacceptable risks to the health and safety of care workers or invoices for care remain unpaid. Aimed at independent and voluntary sector homecare providers, our new factsheet offers guidance on the practical steps necessary, and the principles of withdrawing care in a safe, ethical manner. Revised September 2018.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 237

UKHCA's pack of information for anyone thinking of starting or who has recently started a homecare business.

Available on request in hard copy format to those who are interested in joining UKHCA, with our membership application information.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 360

A list of membership services and contact details.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 125

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Policy Director Colin Angel introduces our Risk Register, setting out the financial risks members face today; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr CBE calls for an equal focus on social care; Kirsty MacMillan of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP explains how deprivation of liberty procedures may change; Towergate Insurance discuss income protection and its benefits; Dietitians Kirsty Bamping and Alison Smith look at how homecare can prevent malnutrition and dehydration in older people; Keith Strahan of NHS Digital considers opportunities for information sharing; we discuss how homecare staff can be affected by bereavement at work; we interview Neil Eastwood about his new recruitment video masterclasses; our national reports look at developments across the UK, and we include a pull-out summary of our Impact Statement for 2017/18.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 577

The stability of the state-funded homecare sector has been the subject of increasing concern for Government, councils, statutory regulators and the national media. UKHCA presents the findings of a detailed research project to identify and prioritise the highest risks to the financial failure of provider organisations, or the risk to planned withdrawal from the provider market.

The analysis is based on the views of independent and voluntary sector providers delivering state-funded homecare services across 500 locations across the UK and includes detailed recommendations by UKHCA. We encourage statutory sector commissioners to consider these findings carefully, and take action on those areas which may place their own local markets at unacceptable levels of risk.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 575

Our updated Publications Catalogue and Order Form include details of our main publications, including our "Train the Trainer" resources. UKHCA members receive substantial discounts on our publications. The products in this publication can also be purchased online but, if you prefer, please download the PDF (link below), save it to your PC, edit it on your PC and then save and email it back to us.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 32

UKHCA members should use this form to renew their membership. If you applying to join for the first time see our How to Join page. For a list of fees see our types of membership page. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 175

UKHCA used a large scale online survey of homecare providers in England to help answer a regular question we receive from employers: “Where should I advertise for careworkers?”. This article appeared in the January 2018 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 574

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: UKHCA Policy Officer, Veronica Monks, writes about the social care Green paper being delayed as the NHS is promised extra funding; Bridget Warr, CEO, UKHCA, discusses how urgent attention is needed on long-term funding; Carole Broughton, UKHCA Information Officer, writes about a joint paper that promotes a new dialogue between commissioners and providers; Anthony Collins Solicitors’ article probes whether the recent Oxfam scandal changes the way we must write references for employees; Michelle Gederon, Homecarer Editor, writes about careworkers needing more support when caring for people with dementia; Towergate Insurance provides some useful tips to homecare providers when they are faced with business interruption; UKHCA Policy Officer, James Whynacht, writes about a long-term workforce strategy for Northern Ireland; the England National Report examines the recent ADASS annual budget survey and talks about the 70th anniversary for social care; the Wales National report provides information about re-registering for the Care Inspectorate Wales; UKHCA Policy Officer, Terry Donohoe’s Scotland National report examines the area of integrated care.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 573

The membership application form. For new members only.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 34

A summary of 11 actions which local authorities and homecare providers can consider to create more stable homecare markets and reduce the possibility of local market failure. The document is a joint publication, agreed between the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS), the Local Government Association (LGA) and United Kingdom Homecare Association (UKHCA).

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 572

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This document aims to give UKHCA members information and resources to help prepare for General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance, as well as looking at scenarios specific to homecare.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 571

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Colin Angel, Policy Director, UKHCA, talks about the potential impact of CQC fee increases for members; Bridget Warr, CEO, UKHCA, discusses the seven principles underpinning the forthcoming social care Green Paper; Michelle Gederon, Homecarer Editor, writes about Martin Jones, Managing Director at Home Instead and the Care workers Charity; Anthony Collins Solicitors talks about the noticeable increase in CQC letters to providers about the potential commission of criminal offences; the Membership and Marketing team provide a special section about choosing care management software; Towergate Insurance present the things to consider when renewing your insurance; In the National England Report, Veronica Monks, Policy Officer, UKHCA, looks at the select commitees for Health and Social Care and Housing, Communities and Local Government scrutinising social care funding; James Whynacht, Policy Officer, UKHCA ,writes about how co-operation is essential in providing high quality care in Northern Ireland.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 570

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This Specimen Privacy Statement has been drafted by UKHCA’s preferred solicitors, Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, and relates to the supply of care services. It is free to UKHCA members and can be used in all four UK administrations, as part of members' General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 568

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: UKHCA looks at ringfencing health and social care; Bridget Warr, UKHCA CEO, discusses how the green paper is an opportunity to put homecare on a firm footing; Anthony Collins Solicitors provides homecarers with 12 top tips for GDPR; Karen Reid, Chief Executive of the Care Inspectorate tells members how recruitment and retention is vital for high quality care in Scotland;James Whynacht, UKHCA Policy Officer provides written commentary on planning for the future of social care in Wales and Lesley Megarity; we present a special section with articles on mobility written by various charities and regulatory bodies; UKHCA Board Member for Northern Ireland writes about the priorities in health and social care for any incoming Minister.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 567

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Drafted on behalf of UKHCA by Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, this factsheet will provide homecare providers with a number of top tips to help them move towards compliance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 566

London Fire Brigade have prepared guidance 'Emollient Products - Guidance for Homecare Providers', which covers the use of emollient products and is particularly concerned with identifying and minimising the risks associated with their use in a homecare setting. The guidance was prepared for UKHCA members and is intended for domiciliary care providers generally.

The guidance, which is freely downloadable, is intended to be guidance rather than instructions for those providing homecare.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 565

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

“The new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) – are you ready?” is a presentation by Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP on changes to data protection.

The presentation is from UKHCA’s England conference held in London on 8 September 2017. It gave delegates a high level overview of the far-reaching changes to data protection law which are to be introduced by the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) when it becomes law in the UK in May 2018.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 563

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: UKHCA writes about a recent webinar for council commissioners; Trevor Brocklebank, UKHCA's new Chair formerly introduces himself; Bridget Warr, UKHCA's CEO, discusses how homecare issues are being moved forward to shape the future of care; a special sensory impairment section featuring articles written by RNIB, British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists and Sense offering advice to carers on how they can help service-users; UKHCA's Policy Director, Colin Angel talks about recruitment and retention: Towergate Insurance writes about reducing risk and the costs of your insurance; Anthony Collins Solicitors explains what procurement is and what it could mean for homecarer providers and we present a round-up in the national reports of announcements and developments related to homecare.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 562

A new Cyber Security Guide is available for social care providers, developed by the Care Provider Alliance with the Social Care Programme at NHS Digital, with help from the Home Office (Cyber Aware Team) and the National Cyber Security Centre.

The guide covers safeguards that can be taken to avoid or reduce disruption from an attack on data, computers or mobile devices, and includes safeguarding confidentiality and privacy, and the availability and integrity of data.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 560

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

An accessible information standard (AIS) became mandatory on NHS providers and adult social care providers of publicly funded care from 31 July 2016. This reinforces providers’ legal responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 to supply accessible information, and requirements in CQC Provider Guidance to support people to make decisions about their care. UKHCA's briefing for members aims to help them check their compliance with the AIS. Although aimed at homecare providers of 'publicly-funded care' the briefing will be of interest to providers of privately-funded care and assist with their Equality Act and CQC compliance. Revised December 2017.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 501

Live in care provides a flexible option for those with substantial support needs, and is often able to prevent admission to a care or nursing home. Service users may have physical or sensory needs that mean they require “round the clock” care, or issues like dementia, that make it difficult for them to be on their own. Live in care also provides an answer to social isolation, with the worker acting more as a companion than a care worker. Traditionally live in care is the preserve of a small number of specialist providers and agencies, but it is increasingly being offered by homecare organisations that provide daily care. So what issues should a provider consider before branching out into live in care? UKHCA’s new publication provides a simple introduction to live in care.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 439

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The role of homecare providers increasingly extends to accompanying service users outside the home or on holiday, important activities to enhance well-being, maintain independence and reduce social isolation. UKHCA's revised factsheet: "Accompanying service users on outings and holidays" describes some of the issues homecare providers need to consider and sources of further advice.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 272

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: UKHCA reviews a recent house of commons debate on social care; Bridget Warr, UKHCA CEO discusses how we continue to work on making progress in homecare; Towergate Insurance writes about liability claims; Anthony Collins Solicitors looks at what fire safety means for homecarers; London Fire Brigade issues a warning on the dangers of emollient creams;James Whynacht, UKHCA Policy Officer reports on how homecare providers in Wales are facing substantial change within the care sector;Veronica Monks, UKHCA Policy Officer and Carole Broughton, UKHCA Information Officer, discusses the Care Quality Commission's consultation on fees;
Duncan White, UKHCA Senior Policy Officer looks at what is happening in social care in Scotland.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 558

The Department of Health and Public Health England have confirmed that paid homecare workers in England’s independent and voluntary sector will be entitled to free ‘flu vaccination this winter 2017-18. Letter from Professor Dame Sally Davies and others to UKHCA CEO Bridget Warr, in her capacity as chair of the Care Provider Alliance, dated 18 October 2017.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 557

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The Scottish Social Services Council provides an overview of what they do and their registration system.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 554

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Justine Schneider, Professor of Mental Health and Social Care at the University of Nottingham, presents this article based on research about people with dementia receiving homecare.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 556

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This article, which first appeared in the September 2017 edition of Homecarer, provides information from Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP for homecare providers on what options are open to them on fees received from local authorities. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 553

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: UKHCA provides an update on the Minimum Price for Homecare; Bridget Warr, UKHCA CEO discusses keeping social care as a government priority;Mike Padgham, outgoing UKHCA Chairman write his final Chairman's letter; Professor Justine Schneider, University of Nottingham explores what 'good' homecare looks like for people with dementia; the Scottish Social Services Council discusses the regulation of Scotland's social service workers; Dan Jones, UKHCA Policy Officer reports on what the Welsh Government and Social care Wales has in store for the sector; James Whynacht, UKHCA Policy officer writes on how Northern Ireland is thinking long-term for care and provides a question and answer page on compliance with National Minimum Wage regulations.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 552

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 introduced new rights in England and Wales from 2007 for people who may have problems making decisions (“mental capacity”) as well as responsibilities for people who look after someone who may have mental capacity issues.

This guidance, by UKHCA and our recommended solicitors Anthony Collins LLP, complements government guidance and other official materials on the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and provides an overview of the Act and the systems and organisations that support it. The guidance, revised in September 2017, makes practical suggestions on how to adopt mental capacity assessments into homecare practice and, importantly, record 'best interests' decisions (see accompanying templates). There is also a new section on deprivation of liberty.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 155

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Medication is an increasing and significant aspect of care currently being requested and delivered by domiciliary care organisations. As such, there must be a clear policy outlining the level of administration the organisation can provide for the service user. The policy should then have accompanying procedures to give care workers clear instruction on all aspects of the medication assistance.

This Medication Policy Guidance document has been updated in February 2019 and is intended to give homecare providers guidance on formulating their own medication policy and procedures. It should not be considered a stand-alone policy and providers should make suitable adjustments to reflect their organisation’s circumstances, contractual obligations, indemnity insurance and any conditions placed on their registration by their statutory regulator. 

Your insurance cover may be prejudiced if you knowingly failed to comply with this Policy Guidance.

Further assistance in writing a medication policy and procedures can also be gained by using UKHCA's Medication Policy Template.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 60

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Anthony Collins Solicitors sets out the key legal and governance issues to help homecare owners overcome challenges ahead following CQC's consultation about the future of registration and inspection.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 548

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Kate Lovett, a Director at EDGE Services shares some useful tips on moving and handling.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 550

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Towergate Insurance shares some tips to help homecare providers keep insurance premiums down.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 549

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue UKHCA urges the Government to keep social care at the forefront; UKHCA Chair Mike Padgham says we need unity and purpose to achieve social care reform; we explore how apprenticeship funding has changed and how this could affect homecare providers; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP looks at law and governance; UKHCA celebrates the acheivements of CQC 'Outstanding' members; Towergate Insurance tells members how to keep insurance premiums down; UKHCA CEO Bridget Warr discusses the priorities of social care following the General Election; we explore homecare from the LGBT perspective and James Whynacht, UKHCA Policy Officer, looks at what lies in store next for Northern Ireland.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 547

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), a new EU data protection law will come into effect in the UK on 25 May 2018. Jane Burns, a solicitor at Anthony Collins LLP outlines how the new legislation will impact on the way that organisations handle personal information for individuals.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 544

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Employers have a duty of care under health and safety law to ensure the risks of driving at work are managed under an effective health and safety system. This Towergate Insurance article discusses the procedures that you should have in place to ensure that vehicles used by your staff conform to the road traffic laws and are safe and properly maintained.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 545

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

A Towergate Insurance article that serves to remind members how important it is to be able to meet the requirements of several local authorities and consult with an insurance broker if there are any concerns.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 543

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Hilary Harrison, partner, Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, explains what providers should do in order to determine the true cost of care, which is even more significant when so many providers are facing continuing pressure to submit unsustainale cost proposals.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 541

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In May 2017 Homecarer UKHCA strongly urges the political parties to take action on social care; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr discusses how high quality sustainable homecare needs the energy and commitment of us all; Veronica Monks, UKHCA Policy Officer explores how older workers could be a key resource for homecare; Jane Burns of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP announces how new data protection law is coming soon; UKHCA's Dan Jones explores whether it is the end of Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS); Towerage Insurance advises on using personal vehicles for work; Duncan White, UKHCA Senior Campaigns Officer comments on an ever-changing agenda as Scotland moves forward with social care; The Young Dementia Network discusses how a new tool will help GPs diagnose dementia in younger people and UKHCA's James Whynacht looks at how stability and long-term vision is urgently needed for adult social care in Northern Ireland. This edition also contains a directory of consultants and suppliers to the homecare sector. The UKHCA Manifesto 2017 referred to in Homecarer is available from: www.ukhca.co.uk/manifesto

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 539

The UKHCA Manifesto 2017 urges political parties, and candidates standing for election, to commit to ensuring almost one million older and disabled people can remain healthy and independent in their own homes, while also enabling family members to combine caring responsibilities with family life and employment.

This manifesto is intended to inform parties, candidates and voters in the elections to the UK Parliament in June 2017. Social care is a devolved matter for the respective assemblies of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. With the exception of matters relating to exit from the European Union, social care policy described in this manifesto largely relates to the provision of social care in England.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 460

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This guide for commissioners contains a detailed breakdown and analysis of the costs faced by providers in delivering homecare services. Although drafted for use in England, it can be used across the UK to encourage commissioners to adopt the principles in their costing exercises and pricing arrangements.

CIPFA produced this document in 2017 with the Care Providers Alliance and others as part of a Department of Health project to support the implementation of the Care Act.  Colin Angel, Policy Director, United Kingdom Homecare Association (UKHCA) was on the project steering group and helped to draft the guide.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 551

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this edition UKHCA Chair Mike Padgham calls for the Spring Budget to throw homecare a lifeline; UKHCA’s Veronica Monks considers what’s next for commissioning and James Whynacht introduces a new guide to understanding providers’ costs; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr discusses maintaining quality homecare; Sarah Knight of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP describes regulatory pressures; we report on taking EU workforce issues to MPs; Duncan White, UKHCA Senior Campaigns Officer, looks at social prescribing; Towergate Insurance consider local authority insurance requirements; Bristol Citizens Advice discuss tackling scams aimed at those receiving homecare; UKHCA Policy Officer Daniel Jones considers the state of social care in Wales; Duncan White analyses the Health and Social Care Delivery Plan in Scotland and James Whynacht hopes politics won’t divert from social care in Northern Ireland.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 537

UKHCA Policy and Campaigns Director Colin Angel's presentation handout on 'Homecare: Meeting the challenge" at Care Management Matters Dorset Care Conference 2017 held on 2nd February 2017.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 524

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Rosie McNamara and Imogen Blood from Research in Practice for Adults discuss how enablement can play a part in promoting wellbeing and preventing further need.

This article appeared in the November 2016 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 536

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Dr Jane Martin, Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, discusses how social care providers can learn from existing complaints and gives recommendations for dealing with complaints.

This article first appeared in the November 2016 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 535

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Professor Keith Brown, Daisy Bogg and Mike Lyne of Bournemouth University give advice on the importance of getting consent from next of kin for treatment.

This article initially featured in the November 2016 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 534

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This article, which first appeared in the November 2016 edition of Homecarer, provides advice and guidance from Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP for homecare providers on negotiating homecare contracts with local authorities.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 532

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We say the Government's response to social care funding is not nearly enough to support homecare; Mike Padgham reinforces the message on his page; CEO Bridget Warr CBE discusses how working together is the way forward for health and social care; we explore Brexit's potential impact on health and social care; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, looks at negotiating a sustainable care funding package; we outline how Sustainability and transformation planning (STPs) is essential for members; Policy Officer, James Whynacht reviews the Northern Ireland Members Forum and presents how change is in the air for social care in that region; we address CQC's consultation on registration fees for 2017; Policy Officer, Dan Jones discusses how 2017 is a year of change for Wales; Senior Campaigns Officer, Duncan White examines the Scottish Integration Joint Boards (IJB) work and we provide the answers to a selection of questions received through the helpline.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 531

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This factsheet describes the legislation relating to moving and handling and shows responsibilities at organisational, managerial and individual level. Further sources of information are listed for moving and handling and specifically for moving and handling training. Revised December 2017.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 257

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This factsheet details advice and assistance on risk assessment and should be used in conjunction with the UKHCA Factsheet on Manual Handling. It contains an overview of the subject and useful sources of further information. Revised December 2017.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 256

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This factsheet contains details of the reference material available from the Health and Safety Executive and other sources on a variety of issues relevant to the homecare sector. Revised in December 2017.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 260

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA's factsheet for members looks at how homecare providers can benefit from good news stories in the press - and how they can respond to potential negative press about their business. Although the majority of homecare is delivered successfully without incident, even the best provider can suddenly have to deal with a difficult situation. Written by Policy Director Colin Angel and Homecarer Editor Carole Broughton, the factsheet contains a wealth of practical tips on handling the media. Now in its third edition, updated to include tips on social media.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 353

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We say it is time to take action as winter is coming, Mike Padgham states that the government must target investment in homecare; CEO Bridget Warr CBE reports on how UKHCA is working hand in hand to push homecare to the forefront; We review the recent UKHCA England Conference; Professor Keith Brown of Bournemouth University provides some useful advice about seeking consent for care or treatment from someone’s ‘Next of Kin’; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, discusses negotiating homecare contracts with the local authority; Towergate Insurance invites you to meet the care team at the organisation; We report that the CQC warns that spending cuts could push social care to a tipping point; Senior Campaigns Officer Duncan White reviews the second UKHCA Scotland Round Table discussion and the impact of the Scottish Living Wage (SLW), Policy Officer Dan Jones presents his piece on what the latest draft budget means for social care in Wales and follows up with his Northern Ireland section which discusses Professor Bengoa’s expert panel report.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 530

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Donna Holmes, Partner at Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, outlines key items that should appear on every business owner’s to-do-list when planning for long-term stability, including shareholder agreements, wills and lasting powers of attorney.

This article first appeared in the UKHCA’s September 2016 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 529

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

As Government policy increasingly moves towards moving care out of clinical settings and emphasising care in the home, Andrew Cook, Chief Nurse at Interserve Healthcare, outlines how homecare businesses can improve clinical governance skills based on principles of quality and safety.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 528

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

With the Insurance 2015 Act having come into effect on the 12th August 2016, UKHCA preferred insurance brokers, Towergate Insurance, explains how this will affect UK homecare businesses, in an article that appeared in the July 2016 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 527

With national recognition of the importance of stable and effective homecare services, "The Homecare Deficit 2016", reveals the extent of under-funding for homecare services for older people across all four administrations of the United Kingdom and exposes the level of risk that councils place on a system intended to support older and disabled people, who should rightly expect their care needs to be properly supported.

The rates that so many councils are paying independent and voluntary homecare providers illustrate the root cause of instability of local homecare markets and the unacceptably low pay and conditions of the homecare workforce.

“The Homecare Deficit 2016” uses data obtained under freedom of information legislation during a sample week in April 2016, shortly after the new National Living Wage became into effect. For reference purposes our 2015 report “The Homecare Deficit” is also available.

This new report provides average prices paid by individual councils, England’s nine government regions and Wales, Scotland and by the Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland.

See “The Homecare Deficit 2016”.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 525

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We ask if the market for homecare is sustainable; Mike Padgham says homecare deserves a gold medal and Olympic-style funding; CEO Bridget Warr explores opportunities in challenging times; Julie Vale of Musgrove Park Hospital presents her study of depression in older people; Donna Holmes, Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, discusses building your company and long-term stability; Towergate Insurance describe their legal support system; Policy Officer Jonathon Holmes describes a day spent with All Care (South Wales) in Wales; We report on CQC’s approach to integration and concerns about delayed discharges in England; Senior Campaigns Officer Duncan White describes health and social care committees in Scotland; and include a pull out summary of UKHCA’s Impact Statement for 2015–16.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 520

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The difficult financial climate means homecare providers need to ensure they receive payment for their services promptly to maintain cash flow and the financial health of their business. Our revised factsheet explores some of the tougher issues for homecare providers, namely credit references, late payment of debts and debt factoring. Originally published in 2009 and updated in August 2016.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 238

Care workers work in people's homes where they are unable to control the physical environment, making health and safety a challenge. This is particularly true when it comes to helping service users bath and shower in their own homes. Our guidance considers good practice and what providers can do to control scalding risks to service users when care packages include help with bathing and showering. This includes careful risk assessment, staff training, well–drafted and implemented policies and procedures, and the use of equipment, such as thermometers, where appropriate. Updated in August 2016 to reflect current HSE guidance. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 286

This statistical briefing gives an overview of current and projected NHS expenditure on delayed discharges for people awaiting homecare, the number of people experiencing a delayed discharge due to this reason and also details how delayed discharges vary by cause of delay. We hope this resources is of interest to members, people considering entering the domiciliary care market, journalists, researchers and consultants.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 489

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The difficulties with recruitment have been a long standing problem in the homecare sector. In November 2015 UKHCA, in association with Neil Eastwood form Sticky people produced a webinar, which was free to members.

The feedback from this was extremely positive, with great comments from those who listened in, many of whom wanted to be able to access the content to view again. Due to popular demand we have uploaded the webinar to the new UKHCA recruitment and retention webpage, for members to access.

We hope you find this a useful tool.

"Really useful, interesting information that was relevant to my business."
"Perfectly pitched. Given the time of 45 minutes the content was spot on."

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 515

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The difficulties with staff retention have been a long standing problem in the homecare sector. In November 2015 UKHCA, in association with Neil Eastwood form Sticky people produced a webinar, which was free to members.

The feedback from this was extremely positive, with great comments from those who listened in, many of whom wanted to be able to access the content to view again. Due to popular demand we have uploaded the webinar to the new UKHCA recruitment and retention webpage, for members to access.

We hope you find this a useful tool.

"APPRECIATE - more!"
"Very interesting and useful insights in to staff motivations etc"

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 516

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Our Chair, Mike Padgham provides his response to Brexit and what the homecare sector should consider following the leave decision. The front page topic is the deteriorating discharge issues for older hospital patients; UKHCA CEO Bridget Warr CBE, continues to report on UKHCA’s efforts to gain a prominent place for homecare. Towergate Insurance outlines what the Insurance Act 2015 could mean for UK homecare businesses and Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP shows how important social media is to social care. The appointment of the new Department of Health in Northern Ireland takes the lead in the national report section, outcomes-based commissioning being the topic for the Wales report. UKHCA makes the case for the Scottish government to address some urgent homecare issues and the England report talks about the inquiry into the financial sustainability of local authority adult social care and the quality of care.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 514

It has been widely reported that the rates paid for homecare in Northern Ireland are amongst the lowest in the UK.

UKHCA have produced this report to give an overview of the current state of homecare in Northern Ireland, highlighting the key issues, their implications and our recommendations to Government, commissioners and the regulator in the province to remedy the serious issues faced by the sector.

We hope this report will be of use to providers who are making the case to Trusts about the problem with very low fee rates for homecare, policy makers, market consultants and journalists.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 505

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA has raised queries about medication, in particular record keeping and notifications with the Care Quality Commission. This is the reply of Deb Holland, Head of Inspection, Adult Social Care, CQC (Central West), who is UKHCA's relationship manager as a representative association for social care providers. This was circulated to members in January 2016.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 512

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We report on our House of Commons reception, hosted by Barbara Keeley MP and supported by Alzheimer’s Society, to promote the importance of dementia care at home; UKHCA Chair Mike Padgham considers pressures that could destabilise the homecare sector; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP examine live in care and minimum wage compliance; UKHCA CEO Bridget Warr looks at ways homecare is moving forward and adapting to change; Towergate Insurance ask - are you covered where it counts? We also report on the Towergate Care Awards recognising excellence in care; we ask - where next for Northern Ireland? We report on major developments in Wales affecting homecare; we consider integration – the big story in Scotland, and delayed transfers of care in England.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 511

A digest of Dementia and Homecare: Driving Quality and Innovation, produced as part of the Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia

For further information please see Dementia and Homecare: Driving Quality and Innovation.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 510

To inform the debate in the run-up to the elections for the Welsh Assembly on 5th May, UKHCA have produced a manifesto "Enabling citizens in Wales to live independently at home" calling on politicians in Wales to make a firm commitment to high quality and sustainable care services, which enable people to remain in their own homes and communities.

The back page of the manifesto includes some “quick facts” to set the context for the provision of homecare in Wales.

The manifesto has been produced in English and Welsh languages and we will be sending electronic copies to all of the registered candidates in the election.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 507

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Chair Mike Padgham says funding measures are a start but not enough; CEO Bridget Warr says homecare should be put at the forefront; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP put tendering under the spotlight; we consider CQC’s five year strategy and plans for the future; Policy Officer Jonathon Holmes puts providers’ views to the Commons’ Health Committee; Towergate Insurance remind employers of their duty of care; we celebrate members’ news including an ‘outstanding’ rating in London; we report on policy developments in the devolved nations; we launch our new Code of Practice and continue Save Our Homecare.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 503

A new quick guide, ‘Better Use of Care at Home’, has been developed to help people home from hospital. Written by Dominic Carter, UKHCA Policy Officer, the guide contains practical tips, case studies and ideas to improve processes, relationships and the use of care at home. The guide is one of a series of documents issued by NHS England on transforming urgent and emergency services in England. For more, see: http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/keogh-review/Pages/quick-guides.aspx

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 502

As a member-led professional association, our mission is to promote high quality, sustainable care services so that people can continue to live at home and in their local community.

The Code of Practice reflects UKHCA member organisations’ commitment to this Mission.

This Code of Practice applies to all UKHCA members providing homecare services to people of all ages and in all situations. Where UKHCA members are acting as an employment agency (solely providing introductory services) they will abide by the Code of Practice, to the extent that the Code applies to the services they offer. All UKHCA members will sign their agreement to abide by the Code of Practice on first becoming members and re-affirm this annually at renewal.

You can read the contents of the Code of Practice online or download a copy using the below links.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 128

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The January 2016 edition of Homecarer is now available for members to download. In this issue: Chair Mike Padgham considers the challenges of 2016 and says it may be another difficult year for providers; CEO Bridget Warr looks at Government plans to boost local spending on adult social care and our activities in the devolved nations; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP consider myths surrounding the National Minimum Wage; Policy Officer Jonathon Holmes describes the social care provisions in the Government’s Spending Review; we report on our successful Wales conference and provider event in Northern Ireland ; Senior Campaigns Officer Duncan White reports on two conferences in Scotland that drive forward social care policy; Policy Officer Dominic Carter considers equality in the workplace; Training specialist Jayne Easterbrook answers questions on training in England; we give members advance notice of our new look website and Code of Practice; and push on with Save Our Homecare campaign and petition.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 500

The Association of Directors of Social Services Cymru (ADSSC) and National Provider Forum have written to Ministers on behalf of providers and commissioners to underline concerns around the future viability of social care provision in Wales.

The report aims:

• To provide a joint submission to Welsh Government on behalf of commissioners and providers.
• To identify the scale of the issues and costs concerned
• To identify the risks to service users, providers and commissioners
• To raise public awareness of the issue.
• To assist Welsh Government in any dialogue with Government at Westminster.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 499

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Chair Mike Padgham welcomes the Care Minister’s decision to visit homecare’s frontline and calls on everyone to seize the moment and support Save Our Homecare; we report on our successful England conference and say ‘book now’ for our upcoming events in Wales and Northern Ireland; CEO Bridget Warr reports on the recent Five Nations Forum and introduces a new guide to help services get ready for winter pressures; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP consider light touch commissioning; we report on dramatic fee increases proposed by CQC; Policy Officer Jonathon Holmes summarises the party conference season; Senior Campaigns Officer Duncan White spells out harsh realities to a Scottish inquiry; we launch “Dementia and Homecare: Driving Quality and Innovation”, with partners, part of the Prime Minister’s Dementia Challenge; and consider the issue of loneliness and the role of homecare; and are pleased to welcome new UKHCA Board members and highlight our Impact Statement for 2014/15.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 494

An independent analysis of UKHCA's minimum price for homecare. The report verifies UKHCA's minimum price, the authors suggest a minimum price of approximately £16.70 per hour rising to £23.00 per hour over the next four years. The authors argue that this rate is required for homecare to be sustainable. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 492

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA has produced a briefing on the “Statutory Guidance on the Selection of Tenderers and Award of Contracts: addressing fair work practices, including the living wage, in procurement”, issued by the Scottish Government in October 2015.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 490

This report forms part of the Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia, and is designed to help deliver the Government’s key ambitions outlined in the new Challenge for 2020, where it is cited. It seeks to provide clear, practical ideas and suggestions to further dementia care in the community.

Through a series of innovative practice examples, the report demonstrates how skilled homecare can play a pivotal role in enabling people with dementia to live well in their preferred familiar environment. It shows why good homecare should be at the heart of policy decisions now and in the future.

It outlines what is required to further quality care and innovative practice across the homecare sector, and by whom. This is summarised in nine ‘actions for change’. Care providers, commissioners, regulators and health sector partners are all given reason to take action.

Jane Ellison MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Public Health said:

“We know that people with dementia want to live at home for as long as possible, and homecare is absolutely vital to supporting them in being able to do this. Driving quality and innovation in homecare will not only help us in meeting this ambition but also support the Government’s wider ambition for people to receive meaningful care following a diagnosis of dementia.”

George McNamara, Head of Policy at Alzheimer's Society said:

"Two thirds of people with dementia live in the community and many rely on receiving care at home to live from day-to-day. This guidance marks a step change in the way homecare should be approached. Good quality, personalised care that is delivered in a flexible and timely manner should not be a privilege, but a right. These actions for change will give homecare workers the confidence to deliver vital, quality care and give people with dementia much needed assurance.”

The group involved in drafting this work included family carers, policy makers, homecare providers and dementia specialists all with a shared commitment to improving the experience of people living with dementia and their families.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 488

The stability of the social care provider market is a critical concern for providers, regulators and Government. Persistent underfunding of homecare services has been repeatedly reported by UKHCA. This briefing provides further evidence of the risk of widespread failure in local care markets, in the absence of adequate funding, and independent and voluntary sector homecare providers beginning to turn away uneconomic local authority business. The survey was undertaken by UKHCA with UK homecare agencies at a local level, in advance of the Spending Review 2015, and in conjunction with ITV’s “Tonight” programme.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 486

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The Immigration Bill was introduced to Parliament in September, when the Bill becomes law it will introduce new measures to fine and prosecute people and employers who have undertaken paid employment or have employed someone who does not have a legal right to work in the UK.

UKHCA have prepared this briefing for members to provide an overview of the Bill and the new requirements it will place on all employers in the UK when it is enacted.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 480

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA has produced the outline of a letter that you can complete and send to local authorities who are paying unrealistically low fee rates. The letter has been prepared by UKHCA’s recommended solicitors and can be used to form the basis of making either a formal challenge, or voicing your concerns to a local authority about unacceptably low rates. The majority of the document relates to the Care Act 2014 and the Statutory Guidance that accompanies it. Please note that the outline letter is applicable to councils in England only and it does not relate to services commissioned by Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs).

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 478

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Chair Mike Padgham says the Chancellor must increase funding for social care in the Spending Review; CEO Bridget Warr previews our ‘Save Our Homecare’ campaign; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discuss ‘well-led’ and UKHCA Senior Campaigns Officer Duncan White considers how to improve CQC ratings; Towergate Insurance discuss the duty of candour; Policy Officer Jonathon Holmes looks at right to work checks; Doug Sheperdigian and David Bell of Atlantic Customer Solutions consider outcome-based commissioning; Policy Officer Dominic Carter looks at a review of homecare in Wales and Duncan White discusses healthcare quality in Scotland; NISCC Chief Executive Colum Conway answers questions on workforce registration in Northern Ireland; and we launch our Personalisation Factsheet, and Top tips on fee negotiations and challenges by Anthony Collins.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 477

UKHCA have submitted extensive evidence to HM Treasury in response to the Spending Review 2015.

This spending review will decide how public money is allocated and spent for the next five years.

We made the case that to underfund homecare will affect market stability, undermine the continuity of care for people who use services and placed undue demand side pressure on the NHS.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 476

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Personalisation is an important policy which is referenced in legisation and statutory requirements across the UK. This factsheet will help providers to understand what personaliation is and how they can deliver a service that is focussed on the preferences and desired outcomes of individuals.

We also look into challenges providers may face in developing a personalised service, such as working with micro-commissioners, questions around the workforce, how to manage a personal budget on behalf of the recipient and what to do when a direct payment recipient defaults on payment for care. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 470

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: Chair Mike Padgham asks whether social care can learn the lessons of history; Policy Officer Jonathon Holmes looks at DevoManc and commissioning; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discuss what homecare agencies need to know about deprivation of liberty; we look at accompanied holidays, with the assistance of Towergate Insurance; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr expresses her hopes for the new Government at Westminster; Policy Officer Dominic Carter says a dementia focus paves the way for social care; we report on the Health + Care event, and the Great British Care Awards; launch our revised National Minimum Wage Toolkit and materials for members on assessing the Care Certificate; Senior Policy Officer Duncan White considers the challenge of personalisation and integration in Scotland; we report on workforce registration in Northern Ireland and local government reorganisation in Wales; and include our directory of services and products for the homecare sector, which lists UKHCA commercial members, as a centre page pull out.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 472

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Neil Eastwood, founder of UKHCA commercial members Sticky People, gave a 'Recruitment Masterclass - Secrets from the world's best homecare business' at the Health + Care Show that took place in June 2015. Neil has now written an article based on his presentation and shared with us a Telephone Interview Form Template. Our thanks to Neil for his kind permission to allow these to be uploaded for the benefit of other UKHCA members. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 469

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In an article 'Outcome-Based Commissioning', UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr says securing good outcomes and improving independence for people with social care support needs is without doubt the right approach for the future, but successful outcome-based commissioning needs both commissioners and providers to work together. The article is based on introductory remarks at an event by Atlantic Customer Solutions on 19 June 2015.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 468

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Emma Young of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP considers the issues which arise when a provider wants to hand back business, in an article which appeared in January 2015 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 463

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The May 2015 edition of Homecarer is now available for members to download. In this issue: We consider the threat to social care of continued austerity and call for the new Government to address social care funding; launch the UKHCA statistical overview of the homecare market; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discuss health related tasks and the risks for homecare providers; Towergate Insurance describe help for providers with registration issues; we consider personalisation, post Care Act 2014, and the evidence we gave to the Welsh Government on registration and inspection; plus we report on integration in Scotland and trade union recognition in Northern Ireland.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 462

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

TUPE is one of the most complicated areas of employment law that affects homecare providers. It can apply in many different types of situations and continues to evolve, as businesses change hands, service providers change, and councils outsource their homecare services. Assessing the effect of TUPE on a transfer is a key aspect of gauging the viability of a contract, both for the transferring and the transferee employer. This guide by Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP is intended to be a simple introduction to help UKHCA members understand TUPE and how it can affect their businesses. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 456

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The March 2015 edition of Homecarer is now available for members to download. In this issue: We report on our freedom of information campaign and resulting report “The Homecare Deficit” which highlights homecare pricing by councils and Trust throughout the UK; we launch the UKHCA Manifesto which outlines the commitments we will be seeking from the next Government and priority we want to see given to homecare; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP summarise Care Act and other provisions coming in from April 2015, with action points for members; Towergate Insurance describe their insurance scheme and what provisions it contains about abuse; we report on a campaign to highlight the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home; and we include questions and answers on the Care Certificate and news of our workshops on the Certificate.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 459

The Homecare Deficit provides a snapshot of the prices paid for older people's homecare by councils in Great Britain and the Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland during a sample week in September 2014.

Using data obtained under freedom of information legislation, the report provides visual and numerical data to allow comparisons at a national, regional and local authority level across the UK. It highlights the vast majority of councils which pay well below UKHCA's Minimum Price for Homecare - the rate necessary to run a sustainable homecare service which complies fully with National Minimum Wage, including careworkers' travel time. A selection of infographics from the report are also available from www.ukhca.co.uk/rates.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 458

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We report on our successful England Conference with a special photo feature; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr says social care must be an election priority; Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discuss handing back business and launch ‘Top Tips on Fee Negotiations’; UKHCA Policy Director Colin Angel considers what the Care Act 2014 means for providers; we challenge CQC’s plans to increase registration fees by 9% from April 2015; Towergate Insurance describe their provider insurance scheme; Dominic Carter discusses social services legislation and local government in Wales; we describe a new App for care staff in Northern Ireland, and launch our New Year Sale of the UKHCA Homecare Workers' Handbook.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 457

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The homecare sector uses a variety of patterns of employment for staff who care for people in their own home. Some careworkers are employed by the homecare provider or agency, and some are supplied as agency workers for employment by the service user. In other cases workers are self-employed. It is vital to know the employment correct status of the worker, for the reasons explained by Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP in this factsheet.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 455

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCAs Specimen Terms and Conditions for careworker recruitment services have been designed as a free service to UKHCA member organisations who operate as an employment or introduction agency. Once edited and individualised for members businesses they can be used to promote a fair and mutually beneficial relationship with service users who wish to use an agency to help them recruit a care worker to employ. Drafted by Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, this version complements UKHCAs managed service contract, and comes with guidance explaining how members can tailor the document to suit the needs of their own organisation. This version has been updated (September 2014) to reflect the 14 day cancellation period described in http://www.ukhca.co.uk/downloads.aspx?ID=251 and various other changes. See the guidance for a full description of the changes, and what to do if you are using the older version.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 312

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKCHAs Specimen Terms and Conditions have been designed as a free service to UKHCA member organisations. Once edited and individualised for your business they can be used to promote a fair and mutually beneficial relationship with service users funding their own care, or using a direct payment or personal budget.

This version of the Specimen Terms and Conditions are for use by providers supplying a managed care service, where the provider instructs their careworkers what to do and how they should do it (for example by giving them policies and procedures to follow). This version will be used by most homecare agencies, except those acting as an employment agency, providing an “introduction-only” service. You should download both of the following documents. This version has been updated (September 2014) to reflect the 14 day cancellation period described in http://www.ukhca.co.uk/downloads.aspx?ID=251 and various other changes. See the guidance for a full description of the changes, and what to do if you are using the older version.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 313

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA held it's 2014 Provider Forum in the Ramada Plaza, Belfast on the 28th October.

Powerpoint presentations from those speakers who gave them are available to download here.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 452

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We comment on sector pay issues and call for greater transparency on costs of care; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr says care quality must take centre stage; We look at the Cavendish care certificate pilots; Anna Dabek of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses sleep ins and NMW; Towergate Patrick consider public and employers’ liability insurance; Executive Compass describe how they approached a “must win” bid; Jonathon Holmes explains England’s new inspection regime; We describe two consultations in Scotland and progress on legislation in Wales; Report on our successful event in Northern Ireland and launch our revised Minimum Price for Care paper.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 450

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

In this issue: We anticipate the start of the new CQC ratings system from October 2014; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr says homecare should be a political priority; John Turner takes a close look at the Care Act and the ‘New CQC’; Towergate Insurance ask could you cope, if your business was at a standstill? Jonathon Holmes considers data security challenges for health and social care; We report on opportunities to have your say in Northern Ireland; Consider care standards reform in Scotland and how UKHCA is contributing to implementing reforms in Wales; Look at CQC’s deliberations on covert surveillance; Preview the new market oversight regime for England; Launch new guidance by Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP on competition law; and invite members to our England Conference – The Care Act 2014: aspirations to reality - on 1st December 2014.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 447

The functions of the Office of Fair Trading and the Competition Commission have now been taken over by a new Competition and Markets Authority. In the light of these changes, UKHCA preferred solicitors Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have revised their note for members on key areas of UK competition law. The note draws on recent authoritative guidance, and includes examples of how and when competition law can apply to members, what key risks members should be aware of, and considers cartels and the stricter penalties that can be invoked if competition law is breached. The guidance is only available to UKHCA members and can be downloaded from: www.ukhca.co.uk/downloads.aspx?ID=436

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 436

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The July 2014 edition of Homecarer is now available for members to download. In this issue: We look at the major consultation exercise on regulations and guidance for local authorities on the Care Act; Senior Campaigns Officer Duncan White discusses training for staff on the Care Act; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr says it’s a time to have your say, and a time to celebrate success; We celebrate the Great British Care Awards with a two page feature; Sheree Green of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP explains deprivation of liberty; Towergate Patrick consider handling a liability claim; Kate Lovett of EDGE Services looks at whether you need two people for moving and handling; Dominic Carter explains how the HMRC check National Minimum Wage compliance and we launch revised guidance by Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP on the right to cancel in a consumer’s own home (cooling off period now 14 days for new contracts).

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 445

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Counting the costs of National Minimum Wage Non-Compliance by Dominic Carter, UKHCA Policy Officer. This article is a longer version of an edited article that appeared in July 2014 edition of Homecarer. It includes "Top NMW tips for providers" on how to demonstrate NMW compliance.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 444

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Contracts made in a consumer’s home or place of work are subject to a right to cancel. A new set of regulations, coming into force on 13 June 2014, will (amongst other things) extend this right. David Taylor of Anthony Collins Solicitors explains the key changes and implications of the regulations from the point-of-view of homecare providers in our updated guidance for UKHCA members. Members will need to review their standard contracts with service users, to ensure they are correct from 13 June 2014 or risk the contract being held to be void, and possibly a fine. 

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 251

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The May 2014 edition of Homecarer is now available for members. In this issue: We look at CQCs plans for inspecting and rating services through A New Start; Chief Executive Bridget Warr considers prices, market position statements and policy reforms; Senior Policy Officer Duncan White analyses new EU procurement rules; Anna Dabek of Anthony Collins Solicitors explains recent changes to employment law; Jason Claydon of insurers Towergate Patrick writes on business continuity should the worst happen; Policy and Campaigns Director Colin Angel returns to the hot topic of zero hours contracts in the homecare sector; There are a range of great news stories in Membership news And the latest news from all four corners of the UK are covered in the National reports.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 440

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The March 2014 edition of Homecarer is now available for members. In this issue: We say a minimum price for homecare is crucial for care quality; Feature our member event with Paul Burstow MP and Baroness Brinton at the House of Commons; UKHCA Chair Mike Padgham says we need to be brave to face the challenges of 2014; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr describes guidance that will underpin the Care Bill; UKHCA Senior Policy Officer Duncan White compares outcome based commissioning with aircraft carrier design; John Turner of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses who is entitled to ask for a disclosure; the Department for Work and Pensions describes their new services for employers; we report on a provider workshop in Northern Ireland to discuss RQIA inspection and new legislation in Scotland and Wales; Towergate Patrick look at setting up a pension scheme; Key Retirement Solutions consider paying for care; MedScene Pharmacy describe a Dutch approach to medication; we highlight training funding and changes to the NMDS; Mary Wardell hails Caremark workers’experiences coping with the floods; and launch our members’ homecare case studies, following the Homecare Innovation Challenge.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 438

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The UKHCA National Minimum Wage Toolkit contains a suggestion that where staff undertake unmeasured work (usually live-in careworkers or staff working on-call) a daily average agreement should be used unless all hours worked are recorded (paragraph 57). Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have produced a specimen daily average agreement for the use of UKHCA members, with guidance and checklist. We recommend that members take legal advice if they want help on adapting the agreement to suit their business or if they have specific requirements. The agreement is available in Microsoft Word. A revised version of this agreement was uploaded in March 2015 which includes changes to NMW legislation. This replaces the February 2014 version.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 435

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The January 2014 edition of Homecarer is now available for members to download from the members’ area of our website at: www.ukhca.co.uk/members/homecarer.aspx

In this issue: We consider the real victims of the downturn – those who receive publicly funded care or should do; UKHCA Chair Mike Padgham looks forward to this year's challenges; UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr describes the many areas where we ensure members have a voice; UKHCA Senior Policy Officer Duncan White looks at Clinical Commissioning Groups; Doug Mullen of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses pensions auto-enrolment; we report on the recent consultation on regulation in Wales and our response; Richard Barnes of Towergate Patrick looks at car insurance; we report on the new faces on the UKHCA Board: we include a special feature on our England conference at the Kia Oval; launch our new Tendering and Contracting Q and As Factsheet (available for members to download week commencing 13th January) and include, at the end, a Directory of consultants and suppliers to the homecare sector.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 433

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Winter weather can pose a challenge for homecare providers. Emma Kain-Barrett of UKHCA preferred insurance broker Towergate Patrick looks at planning for the freeze, in an article that appeared in November 2013 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 430

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

It's vital to keep client and business data safe. Andrew Threlfall, CEO of Malinko Home Care Software, looks at making your electronic data more secure, in an article that appeared in November 2013 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 429

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Staff are the heart of all care businesses but in tough times is there a way to retain staff while cutting the cost to the business? Andy Brookes of chartered accountants Hazlewoods explains there are several things that may incentivise your staff and increase their take home pay, which HM Revenue & Customs recognise and are tax efficient, in an article that appeared in November 2013 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 432

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

At least half the independent and voluntary sector homecare workforce is believed to be employed on zero hours contracts. Faye Rush of UKHCA preferred solicitors Anthony Collins LLP discusses their advantages and disadvantages, in an article that appeared in November 2013 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 431

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA's preferred insurance broker Towergate Patrick consider stress in the workplace and describe the specialist help available from the stress helpline, included with their standard business insurance package. Article appeared in September 2013 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 420

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Lucianne Sawyer CBE, Independent Consultant (and UKHCA President) considers where we've got to with telecare, since it first joined the preventative agenda in 2005, in an article that featured in September 2013 Homecarer. Accompanied by telecare case study. (Out of date but kept for research purposes.)

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 417

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Professor Caroline Glendinning of the University of York's Social Policy Research Unit, reports on managed personal budgets, in an article that appeared in September 2013 Homecarer. (Kept for research purposes.)

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 416

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA's Dementia Lead Jennifer Roberts writes about building core relationships in dementia care, and offers practical tips for care managers, in an article that appeared in September 2013 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 415

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This telecare case study for homecare providers is by Lucianne Sawyer CBE, Independent Consultant (and UKHCA President), and accompanies the article: “Telecare - where are we now?”, Homecarer magazine, September 2013. (Out of date but kept for research purposes.)

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 412

UKHCA Policy Director, Colin Angel, gave this presentation at a Greenwich Council event on 28th May 2013.

The presentation outlines what Individual Service Funds are and how they work as well as what the benefits can be for all stakeholders.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 400

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA has signed up to the Dementia Care and Support Compact, part of the Prime Minister's Challenge to improve services for people with dementia. Jennifer Roberts, Dementia Lead for UKHCA, and Martin Green, Independent Sector Dementia Champion, describe the background and what this means for homecare providers, in a feature that appeared in November 2012 Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 397

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

The Court of Appeal in the case of Crawford v Suffolk Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust made some important observations about the way employers should treat health and social care staff who are alleged to have abused service users. Particularly important are the observations about suspending staff and reporting issues to the police. The article appeared in the May 2012 edition of Homecarer. For more current advice on this topic, members should consult our legal or human resources helpine.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 396

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Building relationships is crucial to dementia care. UKHCA Dementia Lead Jennifer Roberts looks at the importance of working with informal carers and families of people with dementia - and offers some practical tips on building and maintaining relationships. This article appeared in the May 2013 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 389

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Emma Young of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP discusses a Supreme Court decision on direct payments, in the July 2012 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 395

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Jennifer Roberts, UKHCA Dementia Lead, looks at the environmental issues for people with dementia living in their own home, and offers some practical tips for care staff. This article appeared in the September 2012 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 394

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Finding suitable activities is an important aspect of caring for people with dementia. Award-winning garden designer Kim Grove looks at gardening, in the January 2013 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 393

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

New time limits impose a tight deadline on tenderers who wish to challenge a public procurement process. Andrew Lancaster of Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP explains. This article appeared in the March 2013 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 390

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

It's important workers can raise concerns in the workplace. UKHCA's Dominic Carter discusses the benefits of having a whistleblowing policy, in the May 2013 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 391

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Dementia lead Jennifer Roberts reports on the launch of the UKHCA Dementia Strategy and Plan, and discusses activities in the home for people with dementia. This article appeared in the May 2013 edition of Homecarer.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 388

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA produced several resources to help UKHCA members mark Dementia Awareness Week in 2013. They comprise an introductory marketing letter that providers could use to send to potential customers or to remind existing customers of the benefits of homecare, guidance on running an event/tea party to raise awareness of dementia, and a quiz to test people's knowledge of dementia, all of which could be used for similar subsequent events with some adaptation.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 386

The London Fire Brigade have noticed that a significant proportion of people dying in accidental house fires (30 per cent of people between January 2009 and December 2011) have some contact with homecare providers or social services. As homecare providers we can often be the first to notice a situation becoming more risky and may be the only link to the community for an individual.

This article sets out a typical example of someone at high risk and how low cost interventions and free visits from the local fire service can save lives.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 385

Colin Angel, Policy and Campaigns Director, gave a presentation about current quality drivers for the social care sector as well as how tips on how providers can make best use of the quality tools available.

The presentation was given at the Care Show Bournemouth 2012.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 379

UKHCA is committed to representing and supporting homecare providers to meet the challenges and opportunities of developing personalised dementia care services. This had led to the launch of the UKHCA Dementia Strategy and Plan, funded by Skills for Care for development in England, and designed to help homecare providers across the UK. The UKHCA Dementia Strategy and Plan is the blueprint for our work helping homecare organisations develop their dementia services regionally and nationally. UKHCA Chief Executive Bridget Warr said: "This is an exciting initiative and I look forward to inviting our members and other homecare providers to get involved, as we implement the Plan in the coming months".

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 377

This briefing is based on a survey of homecare providers in 2011 demonstrating the impact of local authority commissioning practices on those people using homecare services.

We found that up to 82% of councils were reducing how much care they would pay for, and reducing the number of homecare visits people receive. 58% of councils appeared to have cut the price they pay independent and voluntary sector providers for homecare.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 364

Jennifer Roberts, Dementia Lead for UKHCA, looks at the communication challenges in caring for a person with dementia, and offers some practical tips for care staff, in two topical articles for Homecarer magazine (featured in May and July 2012 editions respectively).

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 359

Home-based care is a lifeline for over 640,000 people in the UK, who rightly expect dignified, quality care to help them to live independently, and not a commodity to be purchased like paperclips. UKHCA's report “Care is not a Commodity”, based on initial results from our 2012 Commissioning Survey of homecare providers, finds that almost three quarters of providers believe that over the last 12 months the councils they work with have become more interested in securing a low price than a quality service, and shorter visits time may jeopardise the delivery of dignified, quality care.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 356

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This factsheet aims to provide UKHCA members with answers to the questions that homecare providers have been asking us about the recently launched, privately operated Good Care Guide "TripAdvisor-style" website.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 351

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This 31 or 28 day double sided Medication Administration Record sheet may be freely downloaded by UKHCA members as an aid to medication administration for both training and practical day to day purposes. It is available in Excel format, and includes a version for use with Pharmacy Prepared Managed Dosage Systems (MDS).

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 246

The Equality and Human Rights Commission’s report “Close to home: older people and human rights in home care” was launched on 23rd November 2011. While stating that around half of the older people, friends and family members who gave evidence to the inquiry expressed real satisfaction with their homecare, EHRC’s report highlights some disappointing examples of homecare in practice. This UKHCA guidance is a preliminary response to those findings and is intended to help providers ensure their staff provide the highest standard of care.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 345

Use this form if you wish to input disclosure applications online. This service is only available to UKHCA Disclosure Service members.

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Choosing Care at Home is UKHCA’s leaflet for service users considering purchasing homecare services. We send a copy of this to everyone who calls UKHCA looking for a suitable care provider and UKHCA members can also send this leaflet to prospective service users. The leaflet is presented in an accessible format to help people who may have some degree of visual impairment. Now featuring the Carers UK logo as a symbol of our commitment to work together, the leaflet can be downloaded without charge and is also available professionally printed in full colour using a UKHCA order form.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 108

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

UKHCA's new briefing is aimed at anyone buying, selling or simply running a business who needs to understand how businesses are valued. The worth of a business hinges upon how much profit a purchaser can make from it, balanced by the risks involved. Past profitability and asset values are only the starting points. It is often intangible factors, such as key business relationships, which provide the most value. This briefing outlines the uses of valuation, key factors affecting the value of a business, the standard methods of valuation and how to calculate profit for the purpose of valuation.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 328

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 321

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 320

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 319

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Anthony Collins have produced a guide on the employment implications of the Act for HR Professionals.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 309

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

As modern technologies have advanced, there has been considerable debate amongst the medical profession, public and in the courts about the possibility of over or under treatment of a person, especially towards the end of their life. As people are living longer and choosing to stay at home rather then enter residential care, homecare providers will increasingly be looking after elderly or frail individuals in their own homes and may need to support service users who have made, or would like to make, a “Do Not Attempt Resuscitation” instruction. In response, UKHCA's preferred solicitors, Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, have produced a new factsheet for members about the legal basis of "Do Not Attempt Resuscitation" instructions.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 296

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Members may find the following template of assistance. The template has been used at our risk assessment workshops and is a way of assessing hazards, impact and countermeasures that might ameliorate the risk.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 295

This guidance has been produced as part of good practice contingency planning and we encourage providers to familiarise themselves with the information provided in this document. This document is provided as a service to UKHCA members. (This guidance was produced at the time of the swine ‘flu outbreak in the UK and other countries in 2010, which was classified as a pandemic ‘flu outbreak by the World Health Organisation. It is kept for reference purposes and would require updating should a similar outbreak occur.)

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 119

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

This business contingency planning template was prepared for UKHCA members at the time of the 2009/10 swine 'flu outbreak. This template for provides some ideas as to what homecare organisations could be thinking about and can use as preparation for a flu pandemic. It is not a wholly comprehensive list, nor will all the suggestions be applicable in different organisations, however it provides a basis for organisations to feed into their own contingency planning arrangements.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 273

Effective hand washing in care settings has never probably attracted as much attention as it does now. UKHCA has designed a simple handout for homecare providers to use with their careworkers that can be downloaded without charge.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 112

UKHCA sets-out the vital importance of homecare organisations receiving a fair price for the services they provide. In the first of our UKHCA Position Statements, we examine the background to the current state of the market and provide recommendations to local authority commissioners on adequate payment for the care they purchase. [This document has been archived, but is kept on public view for reference purposes]

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 114

In our second UKHCA Position Statement, we highlight the dangers of using 15-minute visits to provide personal care to increasingly dependent service users. In recommendations to local authority commissioners we state that short visits should only be used for monitoring and prompting activities and highlight the demotivating nature of these visits on service users and their careworkers. [This document has been archived, but is kept on public view for reference purposes]

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 115

This document is available to UKHCA members only. Information on how to join UKHCA.

Dr Michael Clark explains the hazards of pressure sores and looks at the ways that injury to service users can be avoided.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 107