United Kingdom
Homecare Association
The professional association for homecare providers

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

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This report summarises UKHCA's work on behalf of members and activities in pursuit of its mission during 2019-2020.

This includes how we represented our membership during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Click below to donwload and find out more.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 646

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

An employment tribunal made headlines in September 2020, ordering three employers to make significant back payments to staff who had been underpaid the National Minimum Wage.

In this briefing, Matthew Wort, Partner at Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, explains the possible implications of the ruling and offers suggestions for homecare providers to reduce the risks of successful claims.

The judgment is at: Ms E Harris and Others v Kaamil Education and others Linked judgments

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 645

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

UKHCA's preferred solicitors, Anthony Collins Solicitors, have produced a briefing for UKHCA members in response to self-isolation requirements which apply in England to health and care workers returning from certain countries from 30 July 2020.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 644

UKHCA has updated its guidance on emollients. The updated version reflects the latest advice the Medicine and Healthcare Products Agency who refer to skin care creams and lotions rather than emollients. The guidance covers the use of skin care creams and lotions in a homecare setting and is particularly concerned with identifying and minimising the risks associated with their use. The guidance was prepared for UKHCA members with advice from the London Fire Brigade 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: 643

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

UKHCA Members' Webinar: The role of technology in homecare, July 2020

Jane Townson UKHCA's CEO is joined by an expert panel who discuss a range of issues, including:

• Alice Ainsworth - NHSX - Talking about the work NHSX are doing to join up technology in health and care
• Tim Straughan - NHS England & NHS Improvement - talking about the NHS @ Home initiative
• Robin Batchelor - Care Software Providers Association (CASPA) and everyLIFE Technologies - talking about the work of NHS Digital, in collaboration with suppliers, to harvest and use aggregated care data, as well as data standards
• Dominique Kent - The Good Care Group - talking about their approach to digital transformation, monitoring health and improving outcomes in homecare
• Catharine Chalton - Home Instead Senior Care in the Wirral - talking about the introduction of home monitoring technologies into homecare services.

YouTube link

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 642

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

Click here to watch the webinar on YouTube

As we are emerging from the first, emergency phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are turning our thoughts to the future.

Jane Townson UKHCA's CEO was joined by an expert panel for our members' webinar to discuss: Future of homecare - COVID-19 and beyond, held on Wednesday 17 June 2020.

Topics discussed included

• Government thinking on the future of social care and the role of homecare within it, and how this has been influenced by COVID19
• Views on the impact of COVID-19 on the homecare market now and in the future and the appetite for investment
• The state-funded homecare market as we emerge from COVID-19 and how homecare could develop in future
• The future for the private pay homecare market and developments in services for people who fund their own care
• The housing with care market, how it has fared through COVID-19 and the risks and opportunities for the future.

 The panel includes:

Ros Roughton - Director General, Adult Social Care, Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)

William Laing - Founder and Director, LaingBuisson

James Thorburn - CEO, City & County Healthcare

Martin Jones - CEO, Home Instead Senior Care UK

Michael Voges - CEO, ARCO (Associated Retirement Community Operators)

The panel discussion was followed by a Q&A session.

Click here to watch the webinar on YouTube

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 640

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

UKHCA has produced a series of short, free presentations to support members with training during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Our Training from a Distance presentation gives ideas for using distance learning to ensure training can continue, while maintaining social distancing.

The slides and accompanying audio contain basic information and ideas on training during social distancing. These pre-recorded presentations do not represent the full training, but are more of a guide to support ongoing training delivery.

Our full resource packs can be purchased from: https://portal.ukhca.co.uk/Publications/PublicationsListing.aspx

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 639

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

UKHCA has produced a series of short, free presentations to support members with training during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Our Infection Control presentation provides a guide to ensuring effective infection control training, to make sure staff and clients are safe.

The slides and accompanying audio contain basic information and ideas on training during social distancing. These pre-recorded presentations do not represent the full training, but are more of a guide to support ongoing training delivery.

Our full resource packs can be purchased from: https://portal.ukhca.co.uk/Publications/PublicationsListing.aspx

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 638

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

UKHCA has produced a series of short, free presentations to support members with training during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Our Medication presentation providers a guide to training front line staff to enable safe medication support.

The slides and accompanying audio contain basic information and ideas on training during social distancing. These pre-recorded presentations do not represent the full training, but are more of a guide to support ongoing training delivery.

Our full resource packs can be purchased from: https://portal.ukhca.co.uk/Publications/PublicationsListing.aspx

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 637

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

UKHCA has produced a series of short, free presentations to support members with training during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Our End of Life Care presentation providers a guide to training staff to enable them to support clients at the end of life.

The slides and accompanying audio contain basic information and ideas on training during social distancing. These pre-recorded presentations do not represent the full training, but are more of a guide to support ongoing training delivery.

Our full resource packs can be purchased from: https://portal.ukhca.co.uk/Publications/PublicationsListing.aspx

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 636

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

UKHCA has produced a series of short free presentations to support members with training during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Our Care Coordinator presentation describes how to work effectively as a care coordinator, managing time, stress and staff effectively.

The slides and accompanying audio contain basic information and ideas on training during social distancing. These pre-recorded presentations do not represent the full training, but are more of a guide to support ongoing training delivery.

Our full resource packs can be purchased from: https://portal.ukhca.co.uk/Publications/PublicationsListing.aspx

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 635

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

UKHCA hosted a webinar featuring contirbutions from the CQC, Towergate and Anthony Collins Solicitors. Its entitled Risk, Indemnity, Insurance and Mitigating Legal Liabilities for Homecare Services, and it was chaired by UKHCA's CEO Jane Townson.

Watch it back here:

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 633

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

Social care funding remains a prominently discussed issue in the sector and in January UKHCA launched the Minimum Price for Homecare for April 2020-March 2021. Read more on the £20.69 calculation on pages 4-7. Our members' forums are now under way and we've enjoyed meeting the many homecare providers who make up our membership. UKHCA's CEO Jane Townson has also had a busy few weeks, which has included visiting Wales and Northern Ireland (pages 8-9). Elsewhere, the Information Commissioner's Office talk about data protection (page 13), Anthony Collins LLP give advice on how to plan for a crisis (pages 10-11) and we feature a host of tips for living a healthier life when older (pages 16- 17). Towergate Insurance also offer their advice on what you should look for from your legal services (page 15). Thanks for reading, and if you have feature ideas for the future or feedback do get in contact via editor@ukhca.co.uk

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 631

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 update was in February 2020 by UKHCA to include NMW rates from April 2020.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 422

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 2020.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 140

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 UKHCA, and can be used to form the basis of making either a formal legal 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). Updated by UKHCA in January 2020.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 478

UKHCA's minimum price for homecare services of £20.69 per hour from April 2020 allows full compliance with the National Living Wage and the delivery of sustainable homecare services to local authorities and the NHS.

UKHCA is committed to using the best available data to support our calculations. Pricing assumptions in this latest version have been updated for the National Living Wage, an increased assumption for funding statutory sick pay, and an increase in the different costs of regulation in each of the UK nations.

Equivalent calculations for the voluntary UK Living Wage, the Scottish Living Wage and the London Living Wage between November 2019 and October 2020 are also included.

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

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Happy new year to all our readers! We've opened 2020 with a new look which we hope you enjoy. It was a busy end of the year for UKHCA after we hosted our inaugural Digital Solutions for Homecare event (page 12), celebrated Homecare Day (page 13) and launched our manifesto in the run up to the General Election. With a new government now in place, it has never been so important for a long term plan for social care to be addressed once and for all. Read what UKHCA are calling for on page 4. Elsewhere in this issue UKHCA CEO Dr Jane Townson updates us on her recent member visits and travels around the sector. Towergate Insurance provide useful guidance on business continuity planning (page 10-11), while Anthony Collins Solicitors give their advice on reputation management in a crisis (page 19).

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 630

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. Updated in December 2019.

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 590

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

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 628

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

More information/Go to UKHCA download ID: 627

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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

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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. NMW rates are those for April 2019/20.

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.

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

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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

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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

'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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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 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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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