As announced in the improvement plan we’re excited to share some of the recent changes and updates we’ve made based on your valuable feedback. 

Here’s a rundown of what’s been happening:

Foodie Fridays

You asked for: More notice to attend events and other options than pizza

Following these requests, we’ve diversified our menu beyond pizza for our events. In February, we had 12 attendees, and in March, we had 19 attendees. Our offerings now include a variety of salads, fruits, sandwiches, pasta, crisps, biscuits, and drinks.

Look out for more information and photos on the staff updates page and social media.

Visas

You asked for: Changes to the Home Office requirements means I need a visa

To address the changes in Home Office requirements and adjusted visa procedures, we’ve ensured all eligible staff members receive Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to continue working with us. To facilitate this process, we kindly ask staff to maintain a valid police check no older than 6 months.

Training

You asked to start SVQ training

Responding to your interest, we’ve completed our annual Training Plan. This plan includes access to e-learning, workshops, and SVQ programs. Additionally, new training courses such as Stress & Distress and Care Skills have been introduced. 

Congratulations to those completing all courses this semester!

Rotas

You asked for runs closer together

Following discussions with Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership, we’re reviewing new packages to optimise our service runs. Our goal is to minimise unnecessary travel for our staff.

Office Time

As requested, team Leaders now have more dedicated office time and are conducting Performance Reviews for all staff members.

Addressing Other Concerns

• Phone battery dying: We’ve provided battery banks for staff to charge their phones on the go
• Take away cups for coffee or tea: Thermos flasks are now available for hot or cold drinks, reducing waste from cardboard cups
• Something to carry things in: Waterproof backpacks have been provided for staff to carry their belongings conveniently

Focus Areas

See staff update page for more details and action plans

Dementia

Caroline has led training sessions for staff and contributed to blogs on dementia. As part of our Technology Focus Area, dementia clocks have been introduced to aid service users with reminders and orientation.

Medication

Godson has ensured all service users are at the correct medication level and conducted training for staff. A wider medication audit is underway, with results to be shared soon.

Technology & Participation

Sam and Martin lead this focus area and have been instrumental in the introduction of the dementia clocks. Martin as service user advocate has agreed to participate in Shared Management Meetings, Recruitment and Staff training. We hope having Martin’s perspective will help all of us to think about the impact decisions and actions have on those we support. 

In addition are also inviting service users and families to participate in staff recruitment and training and provide feedback at any time.

We’re committed to continuously improving our workplace based on your feedback and suggestions. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being part of our journey towards excellence.

As the crisp bite of winter air settles in and the city is enveloped in a shroud of bad weather, Nataly and I are on a mission to ensure that you stay safe, warm, and comfortable throughout the colder months. Brace yourselves for a season of delightful treats, engaging events, and thoughtful presents designed to make your winter experience more enjoyable.

Warm wishes,
Stephen

Mobile Power on the Go: Battery Packs to the Rescue

In a world where staying connected is paramount, the dark winter nights and the constant need to keep in touch can quickly drain your mobile battery. Fear not, for we have the perfect solution. In the upcoming month, we are excited to deliver battery packs that can recharge your mobile devices multiple times. Stay charged, stay connected, and let the winter worries melt away.

Embrace the Warmth: Thermos Flasks for Every Sip

There’s nothing quite like a hot drink to ward off the winter chill. Whether it’s a steaming cup of tea, a robust coffee, or a comforting bowl of soup, our thermos flasks are here to keep your beverages warm no matter where you are. With two sizes available — 500ml and 1 litre — there’s an option for every need. Say goodbye to cold drinks and hello to a portable source of warmth.

Fashion Meets Function: Stylish Fleeces and Jackets

As temperatures drop and rain clouds gather, keeping warm and dry becomes a necessity. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the arrival of our cosy fleeces and jackets. These stylish additions to your winter wardrobe have been popular in the past, and we’re confident that you’ll love them as much as we do. Embrace both fashion and function as you navigate the cold and wet weather with ease.

Ready for Anything: Versatile Backpacks in Vibrant Colours

Carry your winter essentials with style in our specially ordered backpacks. With a capacity of 20 litres, they are spacious enough to accommodate all your personal protective equipment (PPE) and other goodies without being overly bulky. Available in a variety of colours, these backpacks add a touch of vibrancy to your winter ensemble while ensuring you have everything you need wherever you go.

In our commitment to providing the best care for our service users, we recently held a Personal Care Skills training session for Social Care Alba staff. This training was designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of our caregivers, focusing on key aspects of personal care and professionalism. We covered essential personal care tasks, including shaving assistance, oral care, proper washing and drying, and dressing. These tasks may seem routine, but they are crucial in ensuring the well-being and comfort of our service users.

Learning Outcomes

Throughout the training, we spoke about the importance of building trust with our service users and understanding what constitutes good personal care. By the end of the session, our staff had a better understanding of these vital principles, along with practical implications and the consequences of incorrectly administered personal care.

Group Discussions

In our group discussions, we delved into the core values that should guide personal care. Dignity, choice, participation, communication, and respect were highlighted as fundamental principles. We also emphasised the significance of attention to detail, from buttoning clothing correctly to styling hair as per the service user’s preferences.

Professionalism and Ethics

Our training highlighted professionalism in delivering care. Effective communication was identified as the foundation of good personal care. Additionally, we stressed the importance of continually developing proficiency, adapting to service users’ needs, and using the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Organisation and Time Management

Organisational skills were discussed, stressing the importance of preparing equipment and products before initiating personal care. We emphasised the need to allocate sufficient time to each task, ensuring that service users never feel rushed.

Dignity and Consent

Maintaining the dignity and respect of service users at all times is a non-negotiable principle in our care approach. Consent is paramount, and no personal care can be administered without it. Consent can be given in a variety of ways such as non-verbally, if you are unsure of this please contact your Team Leaders and ask that you are assigned the Consent E-Learning.

Attention to Small Details

Lastly, our training underscored the significance of seemingly small tasks. These details can make a world of difference to our service users, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident in their appearance. By taking time to ensure that our service users appear the way they wish to appear and have all care carried out in the desired manner leads to a positive and constructive relationship that in turn builds confidence and trust within the service user.  Additionally, this builds confidence and skill within yourselves.

Committed to Excellence

By focusing on technical skills, professionalism, ethics, and communication, Social Care Alba aims to build trust and confidence within our service users while ensuring that our caregivers are well-equipped to meet their needs. Our commitment to excellence in personal care remains unwavering, and this training is a testament to that commitment.