Tag: older people

Edinburgh charity celebrates after receiving grant funding

ACE IT Scotland receives £42,700 from Queensberry House Trust

ACE IT Scotland, an Edinburgh-based charity that helps older people to access the digital world, is celebrating after being awarded £42,700 in funding from Queensberry House Trust, which supports charities working with older people in the Lothians.

More older people than ever before will benefit from financial assistance from Queensberry House Trust which is celebrating 25 years of giving with an anniversary grants fund of £500,000.

This new funding will enable ACE IT to expand their services across Edinburgh and into Midlothian, engage meaningfully with more older people through focus groups, and target minority groups and non-English speakers. The funding starts this week and aims to support increased staff hours, a new Outreach Worker and to attract and retain more volunteers.

The Anniversary Awards attracted close to 70 applications. Focusing on making a lasting impact, Queensberry House Trust distributed £489,599 in charitable grants, to 16 charities and charitable partnerships working with aligned client groups in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Iain Couper, manager at ACE IT Scotland said: “This funding gives us the stability and resource to grow our services. Having experienced a surge in demand for our digital skills coaching services, we have clear evidence that older people need the skills to get online and to do so safely, more than ever.

“We welcome this opportunity to build upon our 20 years of experience in this area and expand our services across the community to reach more people than ever before, empowering them to live with more independence using digital devices and online services.”

Rev Neil Gardner, Chairman and Trustee at Queensberry House Trust said: “As we look to a future with rising living and care costs, there is a critical need to support older people in our communities.

“The Queensberry House Trust 25th Anniversary Awards are an accessible opportunity for new funding to assist older people in the Lothians.

“We are delighted to be able to work with charities supporting those most in need at this challenging time.”

Arlene Raeburn, ACE IT learner, said about the help she received: “I would say to anyone, no matter what their skill level, that using ACE IT to become more IT proficient is an excellent way forward.

“I am grateful for the help and friendly advice I received from my volunteer tutor.”

To find out more visit www.queensberryhousetrust.org

To learn more about ACE IT and get involved, visit www.aceit.org.uk

LifeCare launches Winter Warmer appeal to support local older people

Stockbridge charity urgently needs funds to keep people warm and well this winter

LifeCare Edinburgh has launched an urgent appeal to raise vital funds to support older people living across the city this winter.  The renowned charity, which turned 80 last year, provides positive care for hundreds of local people but is struggling to cope with the increasing demand for its services. 

LifeCare’s personal and practical services include registered outreach and day-clubs, help at home, meals on wheels, unpaid carers support, and companionship activities. 

The charity runs a busy community hub and café on Cheyne Street in Stockbridge with all profits going directly to the running of its services.  Through its relationship-based approach the charity supports those living with dementia, isolation, reduced mobilities, mental health concerns, and those struggling on low-incomes. 

With over 85% of clients living alone, services enable each older person to live well and independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

Through the ‘Winter Warmer’ campaign LifeCare will extend its services this winter.   This will include setting up their community café as a welcoming ‘warm space’ offering free warmth, hot food, companionship, and activities to those that need it across weekends, but the charity needs support to offer this care.            

The organisation is calling on everyone, from individuals to local businesses, to join their appeal and give a donation to help deliver care to those that need it most this winter.

James Wells, Chief Executive of LifeCare said: “We are extremely worried about those in our community.  The cold, dark months are always difficult, and this year, with rising food and fuel costs, it will be devastating for many.

“Older people are still coming to terms with the aftermath of the covid restrictions; abilities and mobility deteriorated rapidly and enquiries for our help are rising, up 250% in some services. 

“Now hit by the cost-of-living crisis these same people, who are just regaining the confidence and motivation to get back to their communities, can’t afford to take part in activities or meet friends for food/drink.  On top of the ‘heat or eat’ dilemma they face this winter they are also at risk of serious social isolation.

“LifeCare has a long history of supporting and empowering older people to live life to the full, but as a charity we rely on donations to enable us to deliver our lifesaving and life-affirming services. 

” Thanks to our care, we will ensure that each older person receives the support they need.  We will make sure they are warm in their homes, they eat well, have company to look forward to and are able to get out and about to activities safely. 

“We are asking local people and businesses to consider giving a one-off or regular gift to our Winter Warmer appeal.  With support, LifeCare can deliver the positive care older people need to ensure they keep warm and well in body and mind.

“There are different ways people can help support.  One-off and regular donations can be made on our website or alternatively people can come along to our community café to pledge their support.  Even choosing to have your coffee or lunch from our café will help us to deliver the care local older people need.”

For more information about LifeCare’s services visit https://www.lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk/ or call 0131 343 0940 to chat with the friendly team.

Care home residents take a trip down memory lane

Valuable memory enhancing skills combat frustration for Edinburgh residents

WORKSHOPS to assist residents with memory skills have been introduced as the latest feature at a care home in Edinburgh.

With memory retention and recall being one of the leading causes of distress for the elderly, Cramond Residence has started offering memory sessions to help relieve these frustrations especially for residents with impaired cognitive function, those living with dementia and recurring memory decline.

To encourage engagement, the home’s lifestyle team keep group sizes small and use a variety of techniques incorporating visual elements such as playing cards, dominoes, flipcharts and photographs.

Lifestyle coordinator at Cramond Residence, Garylee Rushforth, said: “It was a natural next step for Cramond Residence to start providing these beneficial sessions to the residents.

“An impaired ability to recall information and events can lead to severe confusion, disorientation and a dissociation from a person’s own sense of self which is why we felt that it was so important that we fully engage with cognitive activities that can help to strengthen memory processes.

“In these sessions, we teach residents how to actively recall information in the short-term. Flashcards are used to display information and then the coordinators work with residents to teach them verbalised, visual and auditory recall skills related to this information.

“Processing the information given in a variety of mediums provides residents with multiple avenues to recall short term information easier. Carrying these out regularly will expand the memory bank and reduce time needed during the recall process.”

Cramond Residence’s team of lifestyle coordinators have created an exciting and varied programme of activities and workshops, all with the aim of providing its residents with a sense of independence and fun, as well a valuable life skills. 

Garylee continued: “The memory sessions have been a great hit and we have received some fantastic feedback from residents so far and it’s a delight to help residents on this journey and see their individual progress.

“We engage with residents that attend outside of the sessions and test their memory skills on the go and have witnessed a greater ability to recall conversations and instructions in other workshops too which is brilliant to see.”

Cramond Residence, launched in 2018, has provided small-group living for up to 74 residents in nine luxuriously-appointed accommodation with the highest quality of care.

The highly-trained team organises exciting activities and excursions for their residents and offer specialised and individually tailored care in respite, recuperation and dementia care provision.

The medication and care provided is based on a detailed personal care plan, which is continually assessed and revised by health care professionals and other experts to ensure that the best possible care is being delivered.

The luxury home will continue to channel its efforts into improving the quality of life for its residents by introducing more innovative workshops and ideas.

To find out more about Cramond Residence, call 0131 341 4037 or visit:

https://cramondresidence.co.uk/

Older Victims of abuse are ‘invisible’ and ‘last in line’ for Government support, says elder abuse charity

Marking International Day for Older Persons, Hourglass (Safer Ageing) is calling on the government to urgently support older victims of abuse as they are currently last in line for funding support, as shown in recent research undertaken by the charity.

The charity, which has the only UK-wide 24/7 elder abuse helpline and casework service, is seeing a marked increase in calls and is hitting crisis point due to the lack of government and statutory funding.

During the last financial year, Hourglass received £326,619 in Government grants. In the same year, fellow inspirational charities like the NSPCC (child abuse) received a government grant of £14.7 million, The Safelives Trust (domestic abuse services) £2.1 million, the Kaleidoscope Diversity Trust (Freedom, Safety and Equality for LGBT+ People) over £1 million and the Dogs Trust (life-changing services for dogs in need) over £5 million.

Hourglass pays tribute to the fantastic work of these life-changing charities but is calling on the government to level the playfield for victims of all ages and across the spectrum of abuse services.

The charity has seen a significant increase in helpline calls, answering 96% more calls in August 2022 than the same month last year, it is also reporting a waiting list for casework services.

At the same time the charity faces significant financial uncertainty with funding for this unique service being put out for commercial tender and £16,000 ‘bridging funding’ from the Home Office nowhere near sufficient to maintain the helpline’s 24/7 operation.

Commenting on this Research, Hourglass CEO Richard Robinson said,
“Our Helpline is receiving more calls than ever before dealing with horrendous and complex cases of abuse against older people, who otherwise feel invisible and under-supported.

“We cannot continue to be last in line for financial support. Charities across the entire spectrum of abuse undertake phenomenal work and deserve all of the support they get, but it is telling that the only charity that supports older victims of abuse receive only a fraction of the support. It is truly unacceptable.

“We are coming to a crunch point. If the Hourglass helpline does not receive adequate funding soon, we will have no choice but to downsize. This is disgraceful given the growing number of older people who need our support. We now need urgent action and dialogue.”

Responding to this research, charity patron Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick said: “We have an ageing population and more vulnerable older people – services like the Hourglass helpline play a vital role in ensuring safer ageing.

“The Government must ensure that funding is made available so that the Hourglass helpline can not only maintain but expand its important service to older people.”

Edinburgh care home welcomes visitors with open arms

Cramond Residence showcase facilities at first Open Day since pandemic

A CARE HOME to the north of the capital is hosting an open day for members of the public to visit for the first time in three years.

Visitors will be welcomed to Cramond Residence on 29 October between 9 am and 1 pm for a unique viewing of the five-star ensuite bedrooms and to find out more about the care services and range of activities on offer.

As well as showcasing the home itself, the open day will provide the opportunity to meet the home’s dedicated team of care and lifestyle staff while also indulging in homemade nibbles.

Client Liaison Manager, Christian Daraio, said: “The open day will allow visitors to see first-hand what makes Cramond Residence different to other care homes in and around the city.

“These events are great as there is first-hand information available and visitors have the opportunity to ask questions and gain reassurance as well as visit a show room, so that they know exactly what they will be getting.

“If you’re interested in downsizing or finding suitable care needs for your loved one, come along and check out the facilities we have to offer – they really need to be seen to be fully appreciated.”

Cramond Residence is a purpose-built care home created at a cost of £8m and opened in October 2018. It combines luxury, five-star accommodation with outstanding clinical standards – with places available from £1,950 per week and capacity for up to 74 residents.

Spread across three floors, Cramond Residence adopts a small-group living philosophy. That means groups of eight rooms form distinct “houses”, where residents are encouraged to eat and socialise together. This is believed to have played a major role in infection control during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The home also provides a range of activities specially designed to give those living with dementia a richer and more satisfying life, with specialist facilities and trained staff on hand to provide support & relief.

To find out more about Cramond Residence, visit: cramondresidence.co.uk/ or contact enquiries@cramondresidence.co.uk.

Dogs Trust calls on people to give older dogs fur-ever homes

With this weekend marking the International Day of Older Persons (Saturday 1st October 2022) and Grandparents’ Day (Sunday 2nd October 2022), Dogs Trust West Calder is shining a spotlight on its OAPs (Old Age Pooches) in the hope that people will open their homes as well as their hearts by rehoming an older dog.  

 Whilst many people often want to rehome younger dogs and puppies, older dogs have just as much love to give the right owners and these refined older pooches make the perfect canine companions for people looking to provide a cosy retirement home for them to spend their golden years in.   

Susan Tonner, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust West Calder said:  
“Sometimes older dogs can be overlooked in favour of younger pups, but they deserve just as much attention and care from new owners as their younger counterparts.     

“There are lots of benefits of rehoming an Old Age Pooch. Often older dogs don’t need quite as much exercise and although they can be a little less energetic, senior canines can be just as fun and playful.    

“Older dogs are more likely to be fully house-trained and, as they are older and wiser, they usually know other training basics too, but you can certainly still teach an old dog new tricks.   

“They can also make the perfect napping partner and enjoy a good snooze and a snuggle in the evening”.  

The top three breeds of older dogs (aged 8 and over) that were taken in across all Dogs Trust Rehoming Centres between August 2021-22 were Jack Russell Terriers, Crossbreed and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.  

One such Staffordshire Bull Terrier at West Calder Rehoming Centre looking for a loving new home to rest their paws is Brooke. 

Brooke is an incredibly friendly and loving girl with people.  She loves attention, getting lots of fuss and is partial to a belly rub and ear scratch.

Brooke may be 11 years old, but she still enjoys going for walks and playing with her toys especially catching her ball or playing tug. Brooke is very clever and knows how to sit, lie-down and give a paw.

She walks well on her lead and will happily jump in the car to go on a new adventure. Brooke is not so keen on other dogs, preferring to keep her distance from them.  She could live with children aged 14 and over.   

If you think you could help Dogs Trust West Calder show that age is just a number by rehoming Brooke or another older dog at the centre, please visit: www.dogstrust.org.uk    

Over recent months, Dogs Trust has received a record number of calls from people needing to rehome their dogs in the face of the new cost of everyday living.  

To be there for all dogs who need help, the charity is looking for dedicated foster carers who can offer immediate support and help out with cuddles and a comfy sofa until they find their forever home. 

If you’re a dog lover, but not able to take on the commitment of rehoming a dog, but would be interested in fostering a golden oldie, please visit: 

www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/fostering   

Tenants in Edinburgh take part in major energy efficiency roll out

Scottish housing provider Bield has rolled out hundreds of air fryers and slow cookers to tenants across the country in a bid to help reduce energy consumption.

The cooking equipment has been gifted to 688 Bield tenants as the provider received £33,000 from the Social Housing Fuel Support Fund – Round Two, funded by the Scottish Government and administered by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA).

Developments based in Argyll and Bute, Ayrshire, Dundee, East and West Lothian, Edinburgh, Fife, Glasgow, Inverclyde, North Lanarkshire, Perth and Kinross, Renfrewshire and the Scottish Borders participated in the initiative which was led by Ken Greenshields, Customer Engagement Co-ordinator at Bield.

In Edinburgh, tenants at Emily Court, Halmyre Street, Milton Court and Pennywell Gardens received the new appliances.

The roll out is part of an ongoing drive to integrate energy efficient and sustainable measures across Bield’s operations and 5,000+ properties.

Frances Payne, a tenant at Bield’s Halmyre Street development in Edinburgh, said: “I was thinking of buying an air fryer myself and was so pleased when I received the offer letter asking if I wanted one. I’ve been looking forward to getting it and trying out some new recipes.”

As part of the roll out, Bield also created a recipe book with six different meal suggestions that can be made in an air fryer/slow cooker. The book was designed to help inspire tenants to make healthy food choices with their new equipment.

Another Bield resident, Mrs Dowling of the Glen Affric Avenue development in Glasgow, said: “I have been really looking forward to getting my air fryer. It is so quick and easy to use and everything I’ve cooked so far has been delicious.”

Bield’s commitment to sustainability is embedded into all its operations.  The housing and care provider recently revealed it is working to reduce its carbon footprint by 90% in a bid to combat the global environmental crisis.

Tracey Howatt, Director of Customer Experience at Bield said: “It’s very important to us that we make decisions which positively impact the environment whilst simultaneously putting the needs of our tenants at the heart of our operations.

“The roll out of these cooking appliances is just one of the proactive ways we are looking to raise awareness of energy and sustainability issues. We’re delighted to have been able to run this initiative and it’s only been possible thanks to the involvement and funding award from SFHA and a lot of hard work from Ken.

“We will continue to support our tenants in any way we can as we face soaring energy prices and the cost-of-living crisis.”

Bield worked with electrical retailer AO to help deliver the air fryers and slow cookers to its tenants across Scotland.

Anthony Sant, Managing Director at AO Business said “We are so pleased to have worked with Bield on this project and are excited to see the results. We all know that many essential appliances simply can’t be switched off at the plug to save energy, in the same way that we might do with game consoles or TVs when not in use.

“These slow cookers and air fryers will allow the recipients to make delicious, healthy meals at home, using less energy, and we’re thrilled to have been asked to play a part in making it happen.”

Bield is a registered charity dedicated to providing flexible housing solutions and support for older people. Bield Housing and Care has around 180 developments across Scotland, providing independent living for those over 50 years old around the country.

To find out more about Bield, visit https://www.bield.co.uk/housing-and-other-services or follow on Facebook @bieldhousingandcare and Twitter @BieldScotland.

Bield is ready for the next chapter

In-person engagement events return to inform housing services of the future

ONE of Scotland’s leading housing specialists is looking to the future as it returns to an in-person AGM after a two-year hiatus.

Sustainability and the cost-of-living crisis will both sit top of the agenda at Bield’s AGM – which is due to take place this week – with over 100 employees and members in attendance.  

The AGM will be held on 22 September at Edinburgh’s Apex Grassmarket Hotel, with a mixture of staff, members and Board members in attendance to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Long-service awards will also be presented to celebrate loyal staff and recognise their outstanding contributions.

There will also be a new addition to the AGM in the form of a staff conference. The conference will be held on the same day to bring together staff who will be overseeing and implementing changes to policy and practice over the coming years.

Dr Lynne Douglas, Chief Executive, Bield Housing and Care.

Dr. Lynne Douglas, Chief Executive at Bield Housing and Care said: “This year we have been working on setting the direction for the next five years, listening to people’s views and pulling them all together into a coherent plan that we are excited to launch in 2023.

“The industry has weathered tough storms over the past few years and we are delighted to look forward and celebrate and acknowledge the hard work of our staff in person. Both our tenants and staff continually drive us forward to achieve the best we can, and that is what helps us through periods of uncertainty.

“We’re delighted to be back hosting our AGM in person and look forward to catching up with members to hear about their experiences over the last year.

“It’s also really exciting to be adding an extra element this year in the form of our staff conference. This event will play a vital role in contributing to our next strategy and shaping the Bield of the future, while providing an opportunity for staff to network and create connections”.

One key element to be discussed at the AGM is the need to focus on sustainability. Bield recently announced the launch of its Energy and Environmental Policy which commits to reducing its carbon footprint by 90% and reaching net zero by 2045 at the latest.

In addition, Bield has also created new sustainability-focused roles in the form of a Net Carbon Manager and an Energy and Sustainability Manager.

Dr. Lynne Douglas added: “There are positive changes and policies being implemented across the organisation which present a real opportunity for tenants and staff to shape the services Bield provide.

“We’re all very much looking to the future with optimism and these events provide a vital platform to discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead.”

Bield is a registered charity dedicated to providing flexible and high quality housing solutions and support for older people.  Bield Housing and Care has around 180 developments across Scotland, providing independent living for those over 50 years old.

To find out more about Bield, visit https://www.bield.co.uk/housing-and-other-services or follow on Facebook @bieldhousingandcare and Twitter @BieldScotland.

New partnership will support local isolated older people

  • Local Aerospace Engineering company chooses LifeCare Edinburgh as its new charity partner 
  • Leonardo employees raising vital funds for isolated older people

Leonardo’s Edinburgh employees have voted to make LifeCare Edinburgh the focus of their charitable fundraising for the next two years.   

The renowned charity, which turned 80 last year, supports over 1,000 local older people every year through positive and practical care including registered outreach and day centres, help at home and meals on wheels, carers support and companionship activities.  

Through its relationship-based approach the charity supports issues including living with dementia, isolation, reduced mobilities, mental health concerns and those struggling on low-incomes.  Services enable local older people to live well and independently in their own homes for longer.  

The support from Leonardo will enable LifeCare to continue to deliver these core services at a critical time.  The charity recently reported unprecedented levels of referrals across all their care services post-pandemic, with the charity’s Help at Home service experiencing a 250% increase in enquiries.  This comes at a time when the cost of running all services is growing significantly.  

James Wells, LifeCare’s Chief Executive said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen by Leonardo employees as their charity partner across the next two years.   

“Sadly, older people have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Their health and wellbeing have suffered significantly and we are struggling to cope with demand for care and the rising costs of service delivery. None of our services are fully funded and we rely on our fundraising to support our life-affirming services.  

“We look forward to working with the team at Leonardo to help them to raise funds for our positive and practical support that older people need to live their lives with extra zest. Also we can help the staff learn more about living with dementia and how then can actively support their affected family members. 

“Over 85% of the people we help across the city live alone and without LifeCare, many older people would be left critically isolated.  Our services provide the earlier help people need to keep them well in body and mind; helping when things are getting more difficult to manage, centred on the unique needs of each individual.  

“We are extremely grateful for every pound raised.”   

Mark Stead, SVP, Radar and Advanced Targeting for Leonardo in Edinburgh said: “The relationship-based approach taken by LifeCare to offer holistic support to older people is so vital.

“Our employees will be proud to support their efforts, which deal so attentively not only with each individual’s practical needs, but also with their sense of confidence, independence and quality of life.

“So many factors are affecting older people and their families in today’s challenging post pandemic climate and we will be striving to raise as much as we can for this important charity.” 

LifeCare is a registered charity and relies on the support of its generous funders.  In addition to Leonardo’s support, LifeCare receives funding from The Bank of Scotland Foundation, The Wolfson Foundation and The Stafford Trust.

LifeCare also runs a busy community hub and café on Cheyne Street in Stockbridge with all proceeds going towards the organisation’s core services. 

For more information about LifeCare’s services visit https://www.lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk/ or call 0131 343 0940 to chat with the friendly team.  

Letters of Friendship initiative

Lisa Maynard from Care Inspectorate’s improvement team shares a great new initiative that is being rolled out in Fife to combat loneliness among people living in care homes:

During the pandemic Carol Hands, Care Home Liaison Nurse, reflected on how isolated people were feeling so she began a pen pal service called Letters of Friendship, Loneliness is not an option.

The poster has been distributed to care homes across the region and the team of care home liaison nurses to promote it when they are out on their visits or during their support calls.

There has already been a good interest in the scheme with around 50 residents starting to write letters. This communication tool can not only stimulate new conversations with new people but tackle loneliness and improve mental health.

If you would like to find out more about this initiative or share any initiatives of your own with us please contact Lisa Maynard, Interim Senior Improvement Adviser: Lisa.Maynard@careinspectorate.gov.scot