SheffCare News

Ancient arts keep Cotleigh folk fit and active

They’ve been doing it in China for hundreds of years but now residents of Cotleigh Home are enjoying the benefits of Tai Chi - a gentle form of exercise.

SheffCare decided to run a 16 week trial of Tai Chi sessions at Cotleigh after managers were shown evidence to suggest that Tai Chi would help our clients remain mobile and active Residents and day centre users have been taking part in the Tai Chi sessions provided by a specialist company run by James Lewis.

You're never too old to rock and roll - UPDATE

The pop video is now available for viewing. Click Here to View

-- ORIGINAL ARTICLE --
Dominoes and bingo took a back seat at Hawkhills when residents were asked to help make a pop video. Sheffield singer Richard Hawley and his crew spent a day at the home recently shooting footage for his new single, Valentine. “The film company contacted us and explained that Richard’s new song is about an elderly man who is remembering his life and the love of his life, so they wanted a suitable location,” says manager Ann Cullen. Richard and the crew from Warp Films, also Sheffield bred, turned up and took over the lounge, setting up a stage for the band to perform on. Some of the residents made up the audience and were filmed along with the actor playing the part of the character in the song. “They really enjoyed the music and were getting into the swing,” says Ann. The song, Valentine, will be on Richard’s new album, Lady’s Bridge, out in August. It will also be released as a single with the video later in the year. All of Richard’s albums have a Sheffield connection. His last, Coles Corner, was named after the popular meeting place for courting couples. Pop star he may be, but he’s a down-to-earth Sheffielder first and foremost and got on well with residents. When he took a break from filming, he struck up a conversation with 93 year old Arthur Goodyer who, like Richard, had acquired a Hawaiian guitar in his youth. He was also brought up near to where Richard used to live. As well as some great memories of the filming, Hawkhills residents now have a £500 donation to their comfort fund from the film company. “Richard also said he’d like to include Hawkhills as one of his Sheffield charities and has offered to help landscape our patio area,” said Ann.

Gaffer Gordon gets things growing

The sight of empty raised flower beds in Cotleigh’s new garden has spurred Gordon
Hopkinson into action. Gordon rounded up other green fingered residents in the home and together they spent a couple of days visiting garden centres choosing
plants before getting down to the job in hand. Now Gordon ´ the gaffer´
ensures that the garden is watered on a regular basis to provide a colourful
addition to the home for residents.

He’s working with Wendy, the activity worker, to get more residents involved in the next stage - planting the bulbs for spring.

Watch out Alan Titchmarsh..

New challenges as SheffCare works to build a sound future

SheffCare has a new chief executive officer, David Roulston, who brings more than 20 years experience in social care and housing.

He joined SheffCare in July and replaces Mike Vickers who retired earlier this year.

David has previously worked as a senior inspector managing a team responsible for inspecting care homes. He has also been a director of services with a charity for people with learning disabilities and the managing director of Enterprise 5 Housing Association in Newcastle. His most recent job was with Midlothian Council near Edinburgh where he was responsible for commissioning new services for adults and negotiating contracts with organisations like SheffCare.

I am delighted to be joining SheffCare at a very exciting time for the organisation, says David. The recently completed rebuild of Cotleigh has shown the high standard of accommodation which we aim to provide for all of our residents and it´s important that we keep up the momentum. We want to replace all of our older homes over the next few years.

A qualified social worker, David has an active interest in research.He graduated from Northumbria University with an MBA with commendation in 2003 and was subsequently invited to be a visiting fellow to the University.

He is particularly interested in the needs of people with dementia. Recently he chaired an advisory group overseeing research by Edinburgh University which is looking at the best ways to deliver services for people with learning disabilities and dementia.

Challenge

It´s estimated that the numbers of people aged over 65 will increase by 30% over the next 15 years so there will be no shortage of demand for services for older people, says David.

"Our challenge is to recognise that people will expect even better and more personalised services in the future and to look at ways in which SheffCare can continue to improve in everything it does."

"I´m looking forward to meeting staff, residents and their relatives so that they can tell me what SheffCare does well but also advise me on the changes that SheffCare needs to make so that it´s services get evem better."

Healthy eating award

Chefs at SheffCare have cooked up another accolade - the Sheffield Healthy Choices Award.The award recognises the home’s achievement in providing food that is not only tasty but also healthy. “It’s a fairly new award which is being run jointly by the council, Sheffield Primary Health Trust, Sheffield Wildlife Trust and Heeley City Farm,” says Marie Weston, one of SheffCare’s three head chefs. “We’re the first residential home to be given the award.”“We provide low fat meals, don’t add salt and use oil rather than lard for frying. “Residents help us decide menus and we cater for individual likes - such as the lady who enjoys half a banana on her breakfast cereal.”

Oh what a night

You couldn’t keep SheffCare residents off the dance floor when Past Masters let rip with some 60s sounds at the Park Gardeners club recently.Activity workers organised the night after one of the band, Derek Brown, offered their services when he was visiting his stepfather, Norman Newman at Knowle Hill.Residents turned out from nearly all of SheffCare’s homes and they had a roaring evening with buffet laid on. “Residents loved it, says activity worker Janet Bradshaw. “Joyce Mitchell, one of our residents never sat down. She danced the whole night away.” Residents all wanted to know when the next 60s night would be. Well, watch this space and keep your dancing shoes ready.

Passing on the garden lore

Expert gardener John Wild, has a new apprentice at Burnt Tree Croft - toddler Sam Oxley.John, who was 90 in March, has taken on the role of gardener at the home for the past three years. He is currently nurturing flowers and seedlings in the home’s greenhouse to ensure a blooming good display - as well as a few tasty vegetables - this summer.But he still found time to spare for young Sam, a regular visitor to Burnt Tree Croft. After learning how to develop green fingers, young Sam might well go on to photography - John’s other hobby.

You're never too old to rock and roll

Dominoes and bingo took a back seat at Hawkhills when residents were asked to help make a pop video. Sheffield singer Richard Hawley and his crew spent a day at the home recently shooting footage for his new single, Valentine. “The film company contacted us and explained that Richard’s new song is about an elderly man who is remembering his life and the love of his life, so they wanted a suitable location,” says manager Ann Cullen. Richard and the crew from Warp Films, also Sheffield bred, turned up and took over the lounge, setting up a stage for the band to perform on. Some of the residents made up the audience and were filmed along with the actor playing the part of the character in the song. “They really enjoyed the music and were getting into the swing,” says Ann. The song, Valentine, will be on Richard’s new album, Lady’s Bridge, out in August. It will also be released as a single with the video later in the year. All of Richard’s albums have a Sheffield connection. His last, Coles Corner, was named after the popular meeting place for courting couples. Pop star he may be, but he’s a down-to-earth Sheffielder first and foremost and got on well with residents. When he took a break from filming, he struck up a conversation with 93 year old Arthur Goodyer who, like Richard, had acquired a Hawaiian guitar in his youth. He was also brought up near to where Richard used to live. As well as some great memories of the filming, Hawkhills residents now have a £500 donation to their comfort fund from the film company. “Richard also said he’d like to include Hawkhills as one of his Sheffield charities and has offered to help landscape our patio area,” said Ann.

Cotleighs opens it doors

The first residents have started moving into the brand new Cotleigh building today. Just fourteen months since the old building was demolished. Over the next three weeks ex-residents of the old Cotleigh along with residents from Shirland, at Darnall and Park Grange, on Norfolk Park have started to move into their new home. By the end of March they will be joined by a number of new residents from around the city. During April the Day and Community Care services will start to operate and the building should be fully operational before the official opening ceremony in May. Staff have been recieving training and induction in the building over the last two weeks and are excited to be welcoming service users into the building.

Trustee Patricia Wray Retires

Hawkhills residents and staff recently had a drink with trustee Patricia Wray on her retirement and presented her with a floral display from everyone. Ann Cullen, Hawkhills´ registered manager, expressed her thanks to Patricia for her dedication and comittment to Hawkhills over 12 years and said she would always be made welcome at Hawkhills. Patricia pictured (front right) with Bertha Basford, and (l-r back)Ann Cullen, Kelly Djedje and Marjorie Greenwood

Too much activity for workers

Striding out on a sponsored walk left the Activity Team out of puff but delighted with the £200 they raised for Weston Park Hospital. Terina Waller, Wendy Smith and Denise Hobson took part in the fundraiser in memory of Linda Agus who worked as a carer driver at Deerlands Home. The event was held at Ecclesfield Park and residents from Deerlands were on hand to make sure the team didn’t fall behind or give up. Some residents even joined in by doing a short walk to support the team. Terina, Wendy and Denise send their thanks to all the SheffCare homes which sponsored them.

Hats off to Hawkhills

The sound of clicking needles has echoed round Hawkhills as residents and staff knitted 250 mini bobble hats to raise money for Age Concern.Supermarket bosses at Sainsburys offered to donate 50p to Age Concern for every mini bobble hat made to sit on bottles of fruit smoothie and other health drinks in their freezer cabinets.Hawkhills residents, led by Mabel Dickinson, pictured right, set up a fast and furious production line with the wool bought and donated by friends and family. Even manager Ann Cullen was dragooned in to knitone purl-one in the good cause.The hats were sent to Sainsburys where they were put on the drinks in the freezer display to remind people how the elderly need warmth. Iain Cassidy, of Age Concern said: "Our initial target was 120,000 hats but with the help of our knitting friends, we made a staggering 160,000 hats that will raise at least £80,000 for Age Concern." Almost 25,000 older people died of cold related illnesses last winter. The money raised will go towards keeping older people warm this winter.

Your good elf Pudsey!

This truant from Santa’s workshop was just one of many characters helping to raise money at the Children in Need events held at SheffCare homes. A staggering £1,275 was raised by residents, staff, families and friends - and lots of fun was had in the process. Springwood had a great morning with spot the ball, name the bear and a game of bingo while Knowle Hill raised money by holding an afternoon tea party. Day centre worker Chris Gowers, pictured, kept Shirland residents in stitches at their coffee morning. Castelayn organised a coffee morning and a couple of games of Deal or No Deal with residents wearing Pudsey Bear hats. Down at Midhurst, Bob the Builder, Dame Edna Everage and Postman Pat were among the guests who kept residents entertained, courtesy of Mick Barker.

Skittle mania knocks em for six

SheffCare residents are a competitive lot when they get going. The inter-unit skittles tournament has had great support with all teams scoring highly. In the end it was a hard fought battle between Knowle Hill and Midhurst, held at Knowle Hill home. Knowle Hill just beat their opponents to take the trophy.Next on the inter-unit competitions agenda is The Quiz early in 2007 - so all SheffCare’s general knowledge buffs should start brushing up now.

Caring on the other side of the world

Springwood staff were given an insight into how elderly people in Iran are cared for recently. Reza Fadayevatan, a senior medical student working in Sheffield, and Mr Soofinejad, director of an Iranian organisation providing nursing home and social, cultural and educational services to frail older people visited the home to meet staff and residents. Mr Soofinejad said the centre in Kahrizak, a rural village in south Iran, is the most advanced of its kind in the Middle East, run with the support of charity organisations and volunteers in Iran. Presently, the centre accommodates more than 1600 disabled people of which nearly 1000 are elderly. They receive a wide range of services. It has medical facilities and a well equipped rehabilitation centre. Since it was founded, the centre has worked to improve the quality and quantity of services given and to improve the knowledge and skills of the staff.

Go on, spoil me!

Some visitors are just spoilt rotten at Springwood - those with four legs. Robbie the 18-month-old Havanese terrier, belonging to manager Anita Bland’s son, is a regular visitor and not averse to a little TLC from residents. The home had considered getting a dog but having seen how boisterous a pup can be, decided that frequent visits from Robbie fit the bill nicely.

Gladys squares up to crocheting

A bit of role reversal has been going on down at Knowle Hill - resident Gladys Smith has been teaching activity worker Wendy Smith how to crochet.Gladys, 96, is reknowned for her crocheting - she makes bedspreads, christening shawls, coasters and much more. “I knew the basic stitches but could never start off squares - Ialways ended up with odd shapes,” says Wendy. “My hubby Ron’s always complaining of being cold in bed. He has this mangy old blanket which I wanted to chuck out, so I asked Gladys to help me crochet a new one.”After three months of solid crocheting they produced a six foot square king size cover (pictured left). They’re now busy crocheting knee warmers for friends in the home. Other residents are also interested in crocheting. If anyone has the right sort of wool to spare - double knitting but not hairy or mohair wool - they can pass it on by contacting Katie Sheldon on 07984 638 965 or through the internal email.

NVQ stars win £1000 for residents

Staff at Paddock Hill scooped a £1,000 prize for their residents’ comfort fund by becoming the first SheffCare home to have all its staff reach NVQ Level Two or higher.Training staff say manager Michelle Dent has been very supportive, changing rotas, offering encouragement and giving staff the chance to do a variety of jobs. Many Paddock Hill carers are now aiming for even higher NVQs.Meanwhile, they’re mulling over how to spend the cash. Putting it towards a holiday for residents is high on the list. All SheffCare homes now have at least 50 percent of staff at NVQ Level Two and SheffCare have promised £1,000 to any of its homes where 100 percent of staff reach the target. Several homes are following close on Paddock Hill’s heels. Watch this space.

Recipe for Happiness

Roewood resident Edna Gray has found a new lease of life in the kitchen. Coming from a large family, Edna has always loved to bake. Recently when she was feeling a little fed up, staff gave her the challenge of making some cakes and buns for the summer fete. The buns were so good that staff ate them as quickly as Edna could bake them. Cooking has now become a weekly activity for Edna. So, Paul, any jobs going?

Friends re-united

Who needs the internet to keep in touch with old friends? Marjorie Greenwood couldn´t believe her eyes when she saw who had moved into the room opposite her on Bluebird Avenue at Hawkhills. It was old school friend Marjorie Marshall. They met 84 years ago at Marlcliffe Road infant school and later attended Hillsborough Council School. There was lots of catching up to do and reminiscences of their childhood at Hillsborough. Both left school at 14 Marjorie M went to work in a confectioners and Marjorie G went into service. Both married when they were 22 and lived in the Hillsborough area.

John keeps a birds eye view on new Cotleigh

Security cameras around the new Cotleigh building site do more than just keep vandals at bay - they give SheffCare a great way to check up on progress. Paul Buck, who is liaising with builders Sol, can call up the scenes viewed by the cameras on his computer. He invited former Cotleigh resident John Whiteley to see how fast work is progressing. John visits the site regularly, but the birds eye view from the cameras gave him a much better idea of how much work has been done. And John’s not the only visitor to the site - one of the cameras recorded a nocturnal inspection visit from a local fox.

EH UP DUCK!

Hawkhills’ own Dr Doolittle stepped into action when residents discovered an injured duckling during an outing. Carer Ashley Moore’s love of animals is well known to residents. They nicknamed him Dr Doolittle after discovering he had his own menagerie - including a dog, a horse, ferrets and an aviary with 100 birds. When Ashley saw the orphan with an injured foot he rescued it and took it home. The vet confirmed that the duckling, christened ‘Pate’ by Hawkhills activity worker Janet Bradshaw, would have died if left in the wild. Thanks to Ashley’s excellent care, Pate recovered and was able to make a return visit to Hawkhills to meet the other residents who made a big fuss of her. When she has fully recuperated, Pate is going to a new home - a big pond with other ducks.

Artistic tribute keeps Denis' memory bright

Artist Brian Smith must have had some subconscious guidance from above when he painted his picture of Stanage Edge in memory of former Grange Crescent resident Denis Riley. Denis, a talented artist himself, died last year and a donation given to the home by his family was used to commission a painting of his beloved Peak District. SheffCare trustee Mavis Sellars put the home in touch with Brian who recently unveiled his painting at a special presentation at Grange Crescent. Remarkably, he had included in the scene a solitary walker in a red coat. Denis’ daughter Kate Hardy said the scene stirred fond memories for her as she and her father often walked at Stanage Edge and that she always wore a red coat. After tea and cakes, Kate and her family returned to York - via Stanage Edge to rekindle memories. Pictured are artist Brian Smith with Kate Hardy, Denis’s daughter, and residents Thelma Hatcher and Dot Hughes. Brian can be contacted at www.briansmithartist.co.uk

Charity Abseil

Thanks to all those that supported me for my charity abseil from St Mary´s Church last Sunday - I´ve managed to raise nearly £100 already for the Sheffield Royal Society for the Blind, and donations are still coming in.
In case you don´t know already, we were the first group ever to abseil from St Mary´s, and take it from me, getting down was a lot easier than getting up there!

Dance with dignity into old age

Minister for Care Services Liam Byrne announced a new strategy for older people´s health at a Care and Health conference yesterday. The plan included improvements to physical fitness, stroke care, mental health services and responses to falls. Mr Byrne said "This is a programme to transform personal control of care; a programme to shift our focus to prevention; a programme that will weld together as one the specialists and professionals that often orbit the individual rather than joining together as a ring." However, conference chair David Brindle challenged the realism of the proposals, asking if they were over-ambitious given the current crisis in NHS finances. Mr Byrne responded "We´re having conversations, sometimes quite tense conversations, about money. But the direction of travel is heading the right way. The stability of the situation comes from social care - the social care sector will provide leadership in realising our vision.".

Cotleigh Rebuild

Having met with our construction company SOL and Head Projects I decided to photograph the site in an effort to keep you all updated with progress. On the last Wednesday of each month we receive a progress report from SOL updating us on any relevant issues with the rebuild. I am pleased to say that so far so good. The old Cotleigh has now gone and new foundations will soon be laid. In these few pictures you can see the lorries delivering the hard core rubble that the builders offices will be based on. Next meeting due 25th April More pictures available----click here

12th Birthday Party

Almost 300 people enjoyed a good old Birthday tea at The Hilton Sheffield recently to celebrate SheffCare´s 12th birthday and the start of the rebuilding of Cotleigh home. Residents and staff from all 14 homes along with invited guests were royally entertained by the New Orleans Strollers whilst they tucked into a high tea which included much fought after cream buns like mother used to make. A number of staff were also presented with awards for 20 years service and Employee of the Year for each site, as well as NVQ training certificates. The whole event was made possible by generous donations from some of our suppliers. Grateful thanks to staff for organising and attending the event, particularly Paul Buck our Hotel Services Manager for his leadership and co-ordination. It was a really good afternoon out, can we do better next year? It will be difficult but we´ll try. Click here to view more pictures of the event

Make mine a Murphys

Residents at Paddock Hill have a new four-legged friend who is being spoiled rotten by his doting fans. Murphy is a beautiful spaniel puppy who belongs to carer/driver Steve Dalby. 'Residents had asked whether the home could get a pet,' says manager Michelle Dent. 'But when we sat down and looked at the practicalities we decided it might not be a good idea. 'But all was not lost, when Steve first got Murphy he brought him in to see the residents and they asked Steve to bring him in for regular visits.' 'He goes around the unit and visits everyone for a fuss and a play. He’s even started going out on trips with the residents, as they love to see him running around the countryside chasing sticks.' The only problem is keeping an eye on his weight as everyone he visits makes sure there are plenty of biscuits. Well, you have to treat him for all his hard work, don’t you!

Cotleigh goes under the hammer

Builders are poised to demolish the empty Cotleigh building to make way for the new £3.4 million home that will take its place. SOL Construction, the company designing and building the new home, has already built several new residential homes in Nottinghamshire. When they hand over the new building it will be complete with furniture and curtains. All SheffCare residents will have to do is move in. Several Cotleigh residents are keeping a close eye on proceedings as they plan to move back into the home when it’s ready in about a year’s time. Meanwhile, Chinwag will keep you in touch with how the building work is getting on and with news of any further rebuilding plans as they are decided by the Board of Trustees.

Cooking up a feelgood factor

There’s nothing like getting round the kitchen table for a good natter - it’s the heart of a home. Staff at Springwood couldn’t agree more and they’re celebrating the first anniversary of their ‘family kitchen’ which they set up so residents can make a cup of tea, cook buns or just sit and chat with their nearest and dearest.

Manager Anita Bland says the idea was the brainchild of researcher Garuth Chalfont. Garuth, from the University of Sheffield´s School of Architecture, is working with SheffCare on the Independent Project, to find out how life can be made more enjoyable for people with dementia. 'When families with children were visiting a relative, we didn´t want the youngsters standing round as if they were on a hospital visit. We wanted to make it feel more like visiting gran in her own home. So we set up the family kitchen so they could go in there, make a cup of tea and sit round the table. We´ve got games and jigsaws for children so they can play as they would if they were visiting gran in her own house,' says Anita.

The kitchen was so successful on the home’s EMI corridor, Springwood decided that each of the two other floors should have their own family kitchen.

Hawkhills scoffs £105

Residents were delighted when staff raised nearly £400 at the Stannington Summer Carnival but they were even more pleased when carnival chairperson Patricia Wray - also a SheffCare trustee - invited a representative from Hawkhills to receive a £105 donation from the carnival profits. Resident Brenda Hawksworth, pictured here with Patricia, left, and home manager Ann Cullen, attended a celebration supper at the Lomas Hall and received the cheque from Stannington Carnival Organisers Fund and Friends.

Smile please - you're the new age models for Terry

Photographer Terry Bruce has become a familiar face at several SheffCare homes where residents and staff are helping him with a project to capture the positive side of life after 50. Terry took early retirement from his job as a senior probation officer six years ago and decided to pursue his hobby, photography, as a second career. Now he’s gathering material for an exhibition next year. “More people are retiring early and the exhibition will be what do you do with the years after you leave work,” says Terry. He is building up a portfolio of the over 50s at work and play, including those at Midhurst, Knowle Hill, Paddock Hill, Primrose View and Shirland. “You have to get to know people,” says Terry. “When people take less notice of you, then you can capture the magic moments.” “I’ve become aware how much they enjoy visitors going into homes from the outside community and how hard staff work to get people involved in what’s going on.”

Memories of Denis kept close to art

Former Grange Crescent resident Denis Riley, who died earlier this year, is fondly remembered by his friends for his enthusiastic love of art - when he wasn’t painting or showing others how to draw he’d be talking about art. Denis’ family gave a generous amount of money to the resident comfort fund after Denis died and manager Dawn Martin asked the residents of Grange Crescent how they would like to spend the money. They agreed to spend some of the money on a good piece of artwork in his memory. Trustee Mavis Sellars helped the home commission an artist called Brian Smith who is going to paint Denis favourite spot - Stanage Edge. Brian visited Grange Crescent to meet residents who knew Denis, to find out about the man himself. He will be coming back soon with photos, showing different views of Stanage Edge so the residents can choose which view they would like him to paint.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

May we take this opportunity to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. To the many staff who will be working over the festive period a special thanks. Mike On behalf of all Trustees and Directors

John's a model busy bee

You won´t find Grange Crescent resident John Taff sitting twiddling his thumbs - he´s more likely to be building the Taj Mahal. John´s very keen on arts and crafts and spends all of his spare time painting and doing puzzles. Recently he has taken up 3D jigsaw puzzles, and has already made models of Big Ben, a lovely wall clock (which actually works), the Taj Mahal, the Titanic and a beautiful carousel among others. Pants John likes to keep his mind agile and he reckons puzzles are an excellent way to do it. He´s even come up with a design for a jigsaw board which he makes himself. Any residents who would like to try their hand at a 3D puzzle can ask their home to contact SheffCare´s activity worker Katie Sheldon on aw_sheldk. Pictured: John with some of his models and paintings.

Independence, Well-being and Choice

The Government have just released a consulation paper on the future of social care for adults in England. SheffCare will be submitting a response to the green paper, we will be happy to include comments from individuals. Below is a brief summary of this paper, if you want to read the full document, click here. Recent changes in population and communities mean that we are living longer but are less likely to be part of a close-knit family providing support. The way that social care is currently being delivered needs to be reassessed, and a framework needs to be created that meets the requirements of the 21st century. A new vision for social care was announced in April 2004, we have been in discussions with stakeholders both inside and outside of Government and have developed a consultation paper called "Independence, Well-being and Choice". Our vision is to put people in control of their own lives, to help them to decide how their needs can best be met, and give them the chance to do things that other people take for granted. They need better access to universal services, and the best quality support and protection needs to be available for those with the highest levels of need. The changes proposed will need to be met from existing funds, and as these changes can’t be introduced overnight the vision is for the next 10 to 15 years. The vision will be achieved by putting people at the centre of their assessment, being more creative about the way services are delivered, making available better information, and extending the current use of "direct payments". We need to harness the capacity of the whole community, improve the skills and status of the social care workforce, put a greater focus on preventative services and modernise current regulation and performance assessment. "Independence, Well-being and Choice" is intended to provoke discussion, all views on the policies and proposals in the paper will be welcomed.

ROLL OUT THE BARREL

The fabulous show "Roll out the Barrel" is coming to Winding Wheel in Chesterfield for a special afternoon performance on Thursday 20th October 2005. So forget your cares and worries and just come along to the Winding Wheel where you can roll back the years and bring back the memories with a feast of good old fashioned entertainment. You can book tickets by phoning 01246 345 334 or 01246 345 222.

Family brings puppy love

Resident Dougie Revitt naturally looks forward to his twice weekly visit from his son and daughter in law but they also bring a four legged friend. Susan and Peter are volunteer puppy dog walkers for the "Guide Dogs for the Blind" and are now walking their fourth dog "Kelly", pictured with the family. Their last dog a black labrador called Caroline, was a regular visitor to Hawkhills and at 13 months old has gone on to Bolton to the Guide Dogs for the Blind training centre. Two of the four dogs that Susan and Peter have puppy walked have qualified as guide dogs. The criteria is a tough one. Dogs are selected for their temperament, ability, lack of distraction, obedience, intelligence and personality, which is all important when marrying them up with a blind person. Dogs that don’t make the grade are offered onto the police, another charity or a loving family.

A Brush with Trudy

Cotleigh resident Trudy Di Nitto began painting when she was about 40 years old and found that she had a flair for oil painting. Over the years she became a very good copy artist. Her favourite painter was John Constable and she painted dozens of his pictures that have travelled the world with the friends, relatives and clients she has painted for. At 80 years old time began to take its toll, her sight began to deteriorate and nimble fingers began to stiffen so the quality of her paintings began to decline and she lost interest. Fast forward 16 years and at 96 years Trudy seems to have got a second wind and is undergoing some sort of revival and has expressed an interest in painting again. In August 2003 Trudy had a fall at home and broke her hip. After months in hospital it was decided that she could no longer look after herself and it was recommended that she reside in Cotleigh residential home, a decision that, with all the love, care and attention she has received, saved her life and is in part responsible for her renewed interest in life. Whatever the reasons, and whether or not her paintings are good, the most important thing is her renewed enthusiasm to paint again. Keep up the good work Trudy, and let’s hope the picture turns out okay.

Elvis is in the Building

Residents at Cotleigh were star-struck when they saw who had turned up to lead their singalong - the King himself. Staff were just as surprised because they’d been expecting Steven Eyre, Managing Director of Sterling Commodities based at Attercliffe, Sheffield instead of Elvis Presley. Steven and his wife remember visiting Cotleigh in their schooldays to sing Christmas carols. They wanted to return - but with a little extra surprise. The result was a singalong Elvis-style as well as a chance to have photos taken with ‘The King’. Steven’s company also donated four bumper hampers filled with goodies - including sherry and home made mince pies for residents.

You

Grange Crescent Residents, Staff, Relatives, Day Centre Clients and visitors all joined together to help raise some money for Red Nose Day! We held a Coffee morning charging a small fee for drinks and theme coloured red buns. Everyone joined in the sprit of things with their red noses, face paints, stickers etc. Pictured are Sally Ahmed and day centre client Wilfred Hayley joining in the fun. Whilst having a good laugh together, so far we have also managed to raise £32.27 for comic Relief and every penny counts!

Ladies of the Dance

Sure and wasn’t St Patrick´s day a great day at Cotleigh this year. Residents enjoyed Irish music, Irish whiskey and a glass of good old Guinness. The entertainment was provided by one of the home’s local primary schools - St John Fisher - which sent their young Irish dancers. Enjoyable as the Guinness was, the residents voted the dancers the best treat of the day.

Quiz Tournament Winners!!

Congratulations to Castelayn on winning the coveted Quiz Tournament of 2004. After a hard fought competition in which the standards were again very high, Castelayn won the final with 42 points - ahead of Hawkhills who came in second, followed by Cotleigh. The presentation of the trophy will be at Castelayn where the finalists Hawkhills & Cotleigh are invited to an afternoon of tea and cakes to celebrate on 24th November at 2.00pm. The Activity Team wishes to thank all of the 15 homes that took part and invite them to compete in next year´s competition.

Company Main Aims 2004-05

1. MOVE FORWARD ON THE REBUILD STRATEGY Move forward with Knowle Hill extension and Cotleigh rebuild as soon as Government policy and council finances allow.
Review remainder of programme with a view to rebuilding other 5 homes in an achievable time scale
Keep remaining homes open as long as commercially viable
2. IMPROVE STAFF RECRUITMENT Continue to promote career opportunities Monitor success of ‘Finders Fee’ Scheme Monitor the operation of the ‘Buddy’ Scheme Review effectiveness of recruitment systems 3. IMPROVE RETENTION STRATEGIES Review and where possible improve pay and conditions Increase full time contracts More flexible contracts More recognition initiatives Introduce enhanced Exit interview process
4. IMPLEMENT STAFF DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES Further develop NVQ
- ensure 50% benchmark for care staff by December
- develop catering and admin awards
- ensure all Registered Managers achieve their award by December Improve appraisal system - introduce job related competencies
- revise existing scoring mechanism

5. MAXIMISE ON IT OPPORTUNITIES Make central information more available to homes Identify care related functions which may be computerised Increase staff access at the homes to the system Enable service users access to the system

These aims to run within the financial year 1st April to 31st March

High Flyer!

Eva Thompson, SheffCare´s Care Manager and reknowned adventure-seeker, completed another daring challenge on 2nd October. This time she abseiled down over 100ft from the top of one of Sheffield´s highest buildings, the Hotel Bristol, to raise money for breast cancer research. "It was a bit of a windy day" Eva commented, "in fact after our group they had to cancel any more abseils for the day. I´m just glad I got it over with when I did!"

Those born before 1940

We are Survivors (For those Born Before 1940) We were born before Television, before Penicillin, Polio shots, frozen foods, Xerox, Contact lenses, videos and the Pill. We were born before radar, credit cards, split atoms, laser beams and ball point pens, before dishwashers, tumble dryers, electric blankets, air conditioners, drip dry clothes and before man walked on the moon. We got married and then lived together (how quaint can you be?). We thought ‘fast food’ was what you ate during lent, a ‘Big Mac’ was an oversized raincoat and ‘crumpet’ we had for tea. We existed before ‘househusbands’, computer dating and sheltered accommodation was where you waited for the bus. We were born before day care centres, group homes and disposable nappies. We never heard of FM radio, tape decks, artificial hearts, word processors or young men wearing earrings. For us ‘Time Sharing’ meant togetherness a chip was a piece of wood or a fried potato, hardware meant nuts and bolts and software was not a word. Before 1940 Made in Japan meant junk, the term making out referred to how you did in your exams and a stud was something that fastened a collar to a shirt. Going all the way meant staying on the bus to the terminus. In our day cigarette smoking was fashionable, grass was mown, coke was kept in the coal house, a joint was a piece of meat you ate on Sundays and pot was something you cooked in. Rock music was a lullaby mothers sang to babies, Eldorado was an ice cream, a gay person was the life and soul of the party while aids just meant beauty treatment or help for someone in trouble. We who were born in 1940 must be a hardy bunch when you think of the way in which the world has changed and the adjustments we have had to make. No wonder there is a generation gap today. BUT…By the grace of God we have survived Joyce Mowbray

Creative Response to Caring Challenge

I get a great deal of satisfaction from being one of the people involved in setting up SheffCare, knowing that it has helped to improve the quality of life for thousands of our senior citizens over the past decade. It seems a long time ago now, but there was a point when Sheffield councillors and other local authorities around the country were struggling to find a way to respond to pressures from the previous Government to get them to move out of providing residential care.

The route Sheffield took was a creative one. It used the charitable Sheffield City Trust, of which I was chairman, to set up SheffCare - a not-for-profit company which retained the ethos of the old municipalisation while encompassing the economic rigour of the private sector. It has been a great success - and I'm making that judgement with inside knowledge. My wife's grandmother was a resident in one of the homes transferred to SheffCare and we saw at first hand how she and other residents benefited in a very short time.

Where the council had been shackled by legislation which prevented it borrowing money to improve the buildings , SheffCare was able to take out loans and refurbished all of its homes. Residents’ quality of life improved vastly. Part of the credit for SheffCare's success must go to chairman, Bryan Upton. His dedication, backed by a very able board of trustees, steered the way through a difficult situation to make SheffCare one of the country’s most successful providers of residential care.

The future looks promising. I'm confident SheffCare will help meet the challenges we all face: how to look after our senior citizens in their later years in a way that ensures they retain dignity and an active and enjoyable lifestyle with as much independence as possible.

Richard Caborn

10 years in the life of SheffCare

Although the first homes were not transferred to SheffCare until 1994, the company was actually set up in 1990 - which gives some idea of the planning that went into its creation. The early 1990s were a difficult time for care of the elderly in Sheffield. The Government was pressing local authorities to become funders of care, rather than direct providers.

Sheffield City Council had a large number of homes but was not permitted by Government to borrow the money needed to modernise the ageing buildings. The Social Services department had closed several homes and others were threatened.

A bold decision was made to transfer several council homes into a charitable enterprise. SheffCare, a not-for-profit company, was set up under the umbrella of the Sheffield City Trust, an existing local charity. The vision was simple: to provide high quality care for older people in Sheffield at the lowest possible price. After many months of preparation, ten homes, with staff and residents, were transferred to SheffCare in 1994. Another three homes followed in 1999. SheffCare set up its 'head office' - originally one man and a computer - at Don Valley Stadium. The support services needed to keep the homes running were bought in.

Over the years the company has carefully and systematically brought a number of services in-house where it added to the quality and, equally important, reduced cost. SheffCare adopted its chairman's maxim: "We must spend every penny wisely." Homes were transformed with major work to the buildings and investment in new furniture and fittings. Since then there have been a number of milestones - the decision to make SheffCare a charity in its own right, moving head office to John Street and expanding services to include more day care in homes and a homecare service for people in their own homes. One of the hardest decisions taken was to change staff’s terms and conditions in 2000. Many staff transferred on council pay rates which were much higher than the sector in general. It was done reluctantly but managers and board members realised that unless SheffCare could produce a small surplus each year, it would be unable to reinvest in the fabric of its buildings and, like the city council before it, would eventually face having to close homes.

Although our wages are still among the best in the sector, we'd like to be able to reward our staff more fairly. That is one of the reasons we would like to see bed fees increased to help meet the true cost of caring. Meanwhile, we do our best to ensure our staff receive excellent training and opportunities to develop their careers. Our in-house NVQ training is recognised as among the best in the region. The future of the care sector is clearer now than for many years. Once the council actions its pledge to pay the true cost of care, SheffCare will be secure enough financially to begin a massive rebuilding scheme to ensure that, in another ten years, our residents will still be enjoying the best in both care and facilities.

Springwood News Oct 04

Here´s the latest Springwood Newsletter. Click on the picture below to view.

NVQ Presentations September 2004

A presentation of NVQ certificates was made by Mike Vickers and Pauline Grainger on the 6th and 7th September 2004. Staff pictured are; Sue Carr (Grange Crescent); Sue Wilson (Knowle Hill);Carol Grayson (Cotleigh);June Green (Housteads);Kristy Lee (Park Grange); Janine Mallett (Castelayn);Adele Lomas (Castelayn); Claire Sturman (Grange Crescent) and Amanda Sollitt (Cotleigh).

Inter-unit Quiz Tournament

The annual inter-unit quiz tournament is currently underway around the units. The top six from the first round progress to the next stage, and the top three from there will contest the final for the prestigious award. Keep checking out the intranet for the latest details! If you want any further information about the tournament or any resident activities, please get in touch.

PAUL PASSES THE BUCK

Paul Buck is shown here receiving the booby prize for 10 - pin bowling of behalf of the Head Office 1st team, while Burnt Tree Croft staff and residents give him the thumbs down. Head Office were the booby winners after a knockout inter unit competition at Handsworth Bowling Alley. Paul and team were the lowest scoring team in the first leg so they challenged Hawkhills, the second lowest scoring team, and lost to them! It has been overheard that Paul is blaming Enid Wyer - but then doesn´t management always get blamed ? The finals were held on Wednesday 9th September and everyone had an enjoyable time thanks to Jayne and Carl the organisers from Knowle Hill. Congratulations to the winning team Shirland.

Imran's a dad!!

Just to let you all know that Mr Imran Nawaz is the proud father of a baby girl (7lb 3oz) born Sunday 19th September 04. Mum, dad & baby all doing great!

Eva's latest challenge!

Eva Thompson, SheffCare´s Care Manager and reknowned adventure-seeker, has agreed to yet another daring challenge. This time on Saturday 2nd October she will lower herself off of one of Sheffield´s highest buildings to raise money for breast cancer research. Please contact Eva on 2213 210 or email js_thompe for more details and to pledge your support.

Slave Auction Trip

Val’s Slave Auction at Castelayn has now raised over £1000 towards the conservatory fund, the latest pot of money coming from Mike Vickers trip to the east coast. Mike kindly volunteered his services to drive the minibus and treat the purchasers of the seats to a day to remember. With a combination of residents, families, friends and staff safely on board, Mike consulted the map book with his escort for the day Enid and the destination was agreed to be Bridlington. The excellent weather made the day even better, everyone enjoyed a sing-song on the way, a stroll on the prom, fish and chip lunch and an ice cream before embarking on a scenic drive home via Hornsea, Beverley and a cruise over the Humber bridge. Everyone on the trip would like to say a very big thank you to Mike and Enid for a super day out.

Park Grange raise a fortune!

We wanted to let you all know that we managed to raise the massive total of £771.16 at our summer fayre on saturday. Thanks again to all the staff who gave their time up for a good cause!

Springwood News

We are in the process of launching a Springwood Newsletter. This initiative is to help develop good working partnerships with the family and friends of Springwood. We intend to launch the news letter on Friday 23rd July. Click on the picture below to view the newsletter.

Castelayn Slave Auction

On behalf of everyone at Castelayn, a very big thank you to everyone who has supported us. Val’s slaves are currently undertaking the tasks auctioned and the money is now starting to come in – we keep you updated so please watch this space. Everyone has really entered into the spirit of things and the additional support of head office staff and their money is also very much appreciated. Once again, thank you.

Hawkhills Raise Funds at the Fayre

Just a quick note to let you all know that Hawkhills managed to raise £323.00 at the recent Stannington Fayre - thanks to all of you that helped out!

Naomi's baby - new pics!

For those of you that know her (and those that don´t for that matter), Naomi Taskin gave birth to a beautiful baby boy on 29th April at 3.10am. His name is "Kerim" and both mum and baby are doing great.

Summer Activities at SheffCare

The following events are being planned for the next few months - keep an eye on the SheffCare Calendar on the intranet for more details! Inter-unit skittles competition - currently underway June/July - presentation for the winners of the skittles June/July - Trip to the local park August - special event (to be announced!) October - inter-unit quiz December - Xmas event - linedancing We´re also planning some other activities for SheffCare residents, including; swimming, whist drives at the local pub, bowling competitions, trips out to Rother Valley, Chatsworth, the Ski Village and a day at the dogs. Any ideas or suggestions are always welcome - contact Fran by email (aw_activities).

Eggxtra Special Easter

The inter-corridor Easter event at Castelayn was an eggstra special affair. The cloak and dagger secrecy surrounding each floors designs for the egg decorating competition was very tight and rivalled events at MI5.

Judge, SheffCare egglectrician Gavin had a difficult task seleggting a winner from the eggcellent entries. Finally, after much dileggberation, and after attempts at bribeggery he decided the winner was Egglebert and Egglvis singing a duegg, followed by two Easter chicks and a Chinese dish – egg fried rice.

The residents and staff had to admit that it had been a good fun activity, a great competition and they are all looking forward to doing it again next year!

Love is in the Air...

Cupid has been busy at Springwood this Valentine with a whirlwind romance. Gertrude Rhoda Wood and Leonard George Sapple, who met at the home’s day centre just before Christmas, have become engaged. “It wasn’t love at first sight,” says Gertrude, ”but I thought he was a nice fellow.”

She invited Leonard to a family party and they became friends. Then on Valentine’s Day, Leonard visited Gertrude with a bouquet of roses and carnations, chocolates and a card. He followed that by taking her to town the next week and stopping outside H. Samuels the jewellers, saying: “Take a deep breath and come inside.” In the shop, Leonard got down upon his knees and proposed. “Of course, I accepted,” says Gertrude. “He is a lovely man.” The couple, pictured left, plan to marry, with their families’ blessing, later this year.

SheffCare's Prize Draw

SheffCare's Prize Raffle was drawn on Wednesday 31st March. Congratulations to the winners!

- 1st Prize (trip to New York) won by Graham Burch

- 2nd Prize (DVD player) won by Russell Gardner

- 3rd Prize (stereo) won by Helen Chan

- 4th Prize (£50 M&S gift vouchers) won by B Hill
- 5th Prize (£50 M&S gift vouchers) won by B Linguard
- 6th Prize (dinner at Grosvenor) won by H Treadwell
- 7th Prize (tickets to dogs) won by C Slack
- 8th Prize (Sheff Wed tickets) won by Button
- 9th Prize (£20 WHS vouchers) won by Janet Goude
- 10th Prize (£20 Wilkinsons vouchers) won by J Buckley
- 11th Prize (cinema tickets) won by Karen Ball
- 12th Prize (£15 Argos vouchers) won by Freda Bly
- 13th Prize (cinema tickets) won by Carol Walker
- 14th Prize (cinema tickets) won by R Hart
- 15th Prize (£10 Wilkinsons vouchers) won by S Ridge
- 16th Prize (cutlery) won by P Bellingham
- 17th Prize (picnic hamper) won by E Hudson
- 18th Prize (toolkit) won by S Beckingham
- 19th Prize (Chardonnay) won by R Harrison
- 20th Prize (gift set) won by M Slater
- 21st Prize (Swan Morton penguins) won by R Staniforth
- 22nd Prize (CD) won by C Gower

All prize winners will be telephoned unless no contact number was given. All prizes can be collected from John Street - proof of raffle purchase must be shown. Contact Helen at John Street on 2213 205 for more information.

Panto-mania meets Oscars Night

Thought the panto season was over? Oh no it isn’t! Castelayn has been re-living its show, Cinderella, on video and awarding Castelayn Oscars to performers.

Awards were presented by doyen of stage, screen and SheffCare, Dame Enid Wyer and all went well until the presentation of the Golden Globes for the Most Outstanding Double Act to the Ugly Sisters, alias Steve Luckhurst and Graham Sargeant. In true panto fashion, the sisters came out to receive their award, arguing as to who had been the best performer.

And there were cries of “We’ve been robbed” when the Overall Best Performance Oscarette went to the Hairy Fairy Godmother, a close twin of technician Gary Shaw.

In spite of missing out on the Oscarette, the Ugly Sisters are looking forward to the next panto “Wick Dittington”. An extra Lifetime Achievement Award was also presented to Val Wait, unit manager, because without her lead and contacts for props and costumes the performances would not be so spectacular. Recovering from the shock, Val thanked her staff for being prepared to turn their hands to anything.

Frank’s Royal Thank You

Carers at Burnt Tree Croft have got the royal seal of approval, thanks to resident Frank Hutchinson. Eighty eight year old Frank wrote to the Queen to tell her that the staff at his home are “angels” and he singled out carer Lesley Marsh as “my own Florence Nightingale”.

The Queen instructed her Lady-in-waiting, Susan Hussey, to write back thanking Frank for his letter. “The Queen is always glad to hear of the efforts made by kind people such as Miss Marsh for those who now need help, and Her Majesty is sure that her care and support is very much appreciated by the residents at Burnt Tree Croft,” says the letter.

The letter now has pride of place at Burnt Tree Croft. Lesley, who helps Frank overcome his deafness by writing down what people say for him, says: “It brought a tear to my eye when I heard what he’d done. He’s typical Yorkshire. He’ll tell you straight if he needs to but he’s a loveable rogue.”

One of the Family

It’s people like Laura Bell and Jayne Barnett-Middleton who have helped make SheffCare’s first ten years so successful. Laura, a resident, has been part of the SheffCare family since it began in 1994 and Jayne, a manager, joined in 1999. Like many of our residents and staff, they’ve played a part in shaping the company.

“I wouldn’t go anywhere else. It’s not just that the home is nice, it’s the staff. We have wonderful staff here,” says Laura who moved into Paddock Hill, Gleadless, a few months before it transferred from the city council to SheffCare.

SheffCare did a lot of refurbishing when they took over. I’m in the penthouse, the top floor suite,” says 87 year old Laura. “I like it in there. I like to read and write and it gives me a bit of privacy.”

Ten years on, she’s still a very active member of the home and joins in the daily activities. “I’m very friendly with the day centre people and I go out on trips with them. We have a whale of a time,” she says. Laura’s also an active campaigner - a former member of the residents’ forum and quick off the mark to let the top brass know if there’s something amiss. “If I’m cross about something then the balloon goes up,” says Laura, who served in the WRAF during the war, “ but you can usually get Enid or Mike from head office to come and see you.”

That, says Jayne, who manages Paddock Hill Home, is one of the big differences between a local authority home and SheffCare. “I worked in the local authority for years before transferring to SheffCare but the service head and director of social services were just names on a list. I never met them. SheffCare has more of a family feel,” says 38 year old Jayne who worked her way up to manager after starting as a junior carer.

It’s a lot more homely with smaller dining areas and tea bars where residents can make themselves a cuppa. The emphasis is on the residents and they have more choice. The residents’ forum also gives then a voice.

Like all the care sector we have some problems recruiting, but the training and development opportunities in SheffCare are brilliant. A 16 year old could start as a domestic and in five or six years work up to a team leader. It’s a very forward looking company.”

Laura sums up her ten years as a SheffCare resident simply: “I don’t have any living relatives, these are my family.”

Win a Trip to New York!

SheffCare are holding a raffle to raise funds for the 10th birthday party, and the top prize is a long weekend for two in New York! Tickets are £1 (per book of 5) and are available from any SheffCare site. Other prizes include;
- a silver line DVD player (with a 3yr warranty)
- gift vouchers
- wines
- chocolates
- CD/cassette player
And many more!
The draw will be taking place on 31st March 2004. For further details contact Qamar Ashmore at John Street on 2213 211.

'Operation Shoe box' brings out the Christmas spirit

Father Christmas and his elves have had a helping hand from Castelayn residents and staff who put together and donated 52 shoeboxes full of gifts to be shipped out to poor children in Russia.

Castelayn has been collecting gifts since summer for Operation Christmas Child’s Shoe Box appeal and November saw a busy time filling the boxes to take to the collection centre. Residents Joan Howard and Michael Vaughan were invited to go along to the collection centre along with carer/driver Graham Sargeant and team leader Asha Oliver to see what happened to our boxes. Castelayn volunteer and retired social worker Sheila Hirst, who also helps out at the Shoe Box Appeal, went along with them to show them around and explain what happened next. Helpers at the drop-off centre on Langsett Road assisted in unloading all our boxes which were put with others awaiting checking by volunteers.

Each box is checked and any missing essential items eg soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, hat, gloves, toy is added from a supply of donations from companies and the box is then sealed for customs. About 17 boxes are put into each shipping carton and when 600 cartons are complete, it’s time to try and sort out transport. The cheapest way to transport transport the boxes is to find a lorry from one of the countries which is coming to the UK to bring cargo but going back empty. The £2 donations requested by the appeal actually pay for the fuel for the lorry travelling back to the host country.

This year, Sheila was asked to arrange a shipment and on Thursday Nov 27 it was all systems go. A total of 9,758 shoeboxes were loaded onto a lorry heading for the Samaritans Purse Distribution Centre in Belarus. As a thank you to the driver volunteers gave him a selection of clothes and toys for his three year old child. Sheila said It was a very emotional experience and I do admit to shedding a tear knowing that a lot of children will benefit and get enjoyment from our work. Thanks to you all.