Please see the link below to the view the report of Channel 5’s Youtube channel:

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• bernash-advert

The advert highlights all our awards over the last four years – if you would like to view our home or require more information, please contact 0117 992 6594 or email info@bernash.com

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INTRODUCTION

Apologies for starting this update on a morbid note but new figures show 217 residents in care homes in England and Wales have died from Covid-19 in the 14 days leading up to April 3rd. However, Care England and the Alzheimer’s Society believe the death toll within care facilities is being under-reported because of a lack of testing. They believe 4000 residents could have already died from coronavirus and this is consistent with care homes deaths in other countries who are currently battling Covid-19. The evidence from Europe shows more than 40 per cent of all deaths relating to coronavirus occur in care homes. Our residents are in a very vulnerable group, they may have underlying conditions and they are in close proximity so unfortunately, it is being spread quicker.

With this in mind, personally, I do not feel the government have been doing enough to support Care Homes, we have been overlooked and I have been championing a change to this. We can all agree that the NHS do a fantastic job, but I believe the government have not given the care sector the same consideration as the NHS and I strongly feel that staff working within care homes should also be applauded for their outstanding work. I am therefore glad to hear that care homes and our staff are finally getting the recognition in the media over the last week.

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­­­­­­­­Highlights of the new Government plans….and a badge to show you Care!

CONTROLLING THE SPREAD OF INFECTION

Faster distribution of personal protective equipment such as masks, aprons and gloves to all care homes and home care agencies.

All residents who show symptoms of coronavirus will be tested.

Those discharged from hospitals into care homes will be tested even if they have no symptoms.

SUPPORTING THE WORKFORCE

Rolling out of testing of all social care workers, with over 3,000 staff having received invitations so far.

Ambition is to attract another 20,000 people into social care over the next three months, via a new national recruitment campaign targeting those who have been furloughed.

Retired social workers and occupational therapists will be encouraged back to work through a relaxation of the rules.

More nurses and student nurses will be deployed into social care where there are shortages.

Many of the 750,000 who have signed up to be coronavirus volunteers will be directed towards social care.

Changes to the benefit rules to ensure that no low-paid care worker loses out if they take on extra shifts.

A new CARE brand – including a badge – to show social care staff that they are valued, pic below.

A new Facebook video service to allow residents in care homes to speak to their families.

Text messaging support service for staff so they can ask advice on how to deal with coronavirus.

SUPPORTING INDEPENDENCE

Families will be allowed to visit care homes in the final days of their loved ones’ lives to say goodbye.

No blanket application of ‘Do Not Attempt Resuscitation’ orders.

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HOW DOES THIS AFFECT BERNASH CARE HOME?

Whilst I welcome the coronavirus swab testing for people working in social care and residents, it looks as though it will be rolled out without any consideration given to who is going to be tested and what we are going to do with the result. I have requested further clarification on how the testing of staff and residents will be implemented and confirmation that all the staff will be tested, should one resident present with Covid-19 symptoms.

The Local Authority promised Bernash full PPE supplies, however only a small number of masks and gloves have been delivered. We are still having to source our PPE from external suppliers at an increased rate, and in some cases, items have increased by 1000%. But rest assured we haven’t had any shortages of the main PPE thus far.

A local company David Glover Furniture based in North Devon and Dr Alisha J Cramer from the School of Physics, Bristol have kindly agreed to donate some face visors to our staff, and we expect to receive delivery by the middle of next week.

The changes to the benefit rules will enable some of our staff to work more shifts and not have their benefits affected. Again, I am waiting on further clarification on how this will work.

We agree visits at the end of life are important both for the resident and their loved ones, however this would require careful planning and far more PPE would be needed than is currently available. We are currently working on a plan to support this, but hopefully this will never need to be implemented at Bernash.

The new ‘CARE’ brand’ for the social care workforce is to instil the same level of pride as in the NHS. Badges with green CARE logos will be sent to staff over the next few weeks enabling them to access free coffees, as well as discounts at stores and cafes once the lockdown is relaxed.

The government have announced a new text messaging support service for staff, however, haven’t provided the contact details. I will continue to chase for this.

We are offering families the ability to speak with their loved ones via Facetime or Skype. Please contact the home directly for more information if you haven’t already made use of this service.

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THE RESULTS SO FAR

We had one scare this week when we thought one of our residents was symptomatic of Covid-19, but after close monitoring and liaising with our NHS Health partners, I am glad to say that all is fine and we remain clear of any coronavirus threatening the welfare of our residents. Therefore, I am delighted to confirm that all the residents remain asymptomatic.

Bernash remains fully staffed and staff absence has been minimal, with only four members of staff needing to self-isolate for 14 days as a precautionary measure.

Bernash currently has two beds available, however we have taken the decision not to fill these beds as the health and wellbeing of our current residents and staff remains paramount.

We have four main food suppliers, WJ Harris Butchers, Moo 2 Me, Tesco & Bookers. WJ Harris Butchers and Moo 2 Me have consistently provided us with regular food and drink supplies. Bookers have also made regular deliveries, however, more often than not items are missing from the order. This then puts staff in the risky position of sourcing food directly from the stores, something we will try to avoid at all costs. Unfortunately, Tesco’s have been less accommodating, limiting the amount of food we can purchase and booking a delivery slot is also challenging. That said, the home remains fully stocked.

Staff are using new PPE for each episode of care intervention and discarding all clinical waste appropriately.

Vital signs ie. temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are recorded daily by staff. Although this is not mandatory, we find it good practice and gives us an indication if a resident is becoming unwell and we can step in and isolate them early.

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I would now like to take this opportunity to say a big THANK-YOU to every single member of staff at Bernash Care Home for caring and supporting residents in these incredibly difficult times. Bernash would be nothing without the incredible people like you – managers, carers, administrators, domestic, cooks, activity co-ordinators and maintenance, that work selflessly and tirelessly, day in and day out, to make sure the residents are looked after. You all care for people when they’re at their most fragile – bringing hope to what, in some cases, may be the worst day of their lives. During this unprecedented period of time marked with angst and anxiety – what a few have referred to as our generations “World War” – thank you for being the helpers and heroes we look to.

Best wishes & stay safe,

Ryan Somauroo

Director

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It seems strange to be celebrating achievements when there is so much uncertainty at the moment and so many other things focusing our minds. However, the staff have been absolutely amazing, especially under such challenging circumstances and deserve to be recognised for this.

With that in mind, I have great pleasure in confirming that Bernash Care Home has been awarded the ‘Top 20 Recommended Care Home in South West England 2020’ for the third year running.

To give you a sense of how huge this achievement is, there were 2027 care homes in South West England that entered into the competition and Bernash Care Home was rated in the Top 20.

I hope these awards will help boost your spirits and allow you to take a moment to celebrate your achievement and look forward to a positive future.

If you have the time and would like to post review in support of the home and the staff, then please follow the below link:

https://www.carehome.co.uk/carehome.cfm/searchazref/10002005BERA#submit-review-tab

Again, congratulations to everyone at Bernash Care Home!

Best wishes,

Ryan & Shelley

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16th March 2020

Introduction:

• By now we would have all heard of the government actions to ramp up measures against the coronavirus epidemic following new predictions that the UK could otherwise see 250,000 deaths.
• This epidemic is seen as the most serious respiratory virus since the Spanish Flu of 1918.

What are we doing at Bernash Care Home:

• Bernash has been at the forefront with putting actions in place compared to other care homes and we were the first Home in Bristol to restrict visitors. We did not wait on Bristol Council to consider the actions of neighbouring Local Authorities and follow suit; within a few hours we moved from restricting visiting to close members of the family, to applying a total ban on visitors visiting loved ones. It was this decision to be proactive and not reactivate that has provided an extra reassurance to staff, residents and families
• We erected notices at the entrance to the Home and circulated notices online to all concerned
• We cancelled all planned entertainment by outsiders and school children. Access is limited to professionals only
• We asked all deliveries to be dropped outside the door so that we have limited contacts with the delivery services who tend to go to many Care Homes and possibly spreading the virus
• Contractors on site have been postponed until further notice
• We are insistent on all our staff to apply universal precautions in all of their practices and wash their hands at least every 20 minutes
• We are monitoring the health of our staff on a daily basis. Staff know that they have to report to management if they show signs of the Covid-19 infection and they are refrained from coming to work after a period of isolation at home, supported by 111.
• We have implemented a daily deep cleaning practice in all communal areas. All frequently touched surfaces are cleaned rigorously
• Staff are advised to limit their contacts with the wider community, and essentially to walk or use independent transport (car or bike) rather than use public transport
• Staff are advised to cover their mouth and nose with a scarf when travelling off duty and going about their own business
• As a matter of precaution, staff are sent home as soon as they complain that they feel unwell at work
• We have decided to place any symptomatic resident in self isolation in their room as soon as they feel unwell, however this has not been required as yet
• We have one designated room for all healthcare professionals to see residents in, therefore limiting the amount of contact they have with other residents and staff. Professionals are advised to enter the Home and walk directly to this room and then exit the same way. They must not walk around the Home.

The result so far:

• Staff have been amazing, always putting the needs of the residents first
• Reports show that staff absence has been minimal with only 2 staff members needing to self- isolate for 14 days
• Goodwill has prevailed and staff have volunteered to provide cover for each other
• We have experienced no shortage in our food chain supplies or in the procuring of personal protective equipment, such as gloves and aprons. However, Public Health England have advised that there will be a free support of PPE to support Adult Social Care Providers from the Pandemic Influenza stockpile
• Staff are using new PPE for each episode of care intervention and discarding all clinical waste appropriately
• As yet no resident has acquired the Covid-19 infection, and we pray that they will all be kept safe, well and asymptomatic whilst we all brave ourselves through this difficult period of uncertainty

Plan:

• I endeavour to send regular updates as the situation improves or deteriorates. Thank you for being cognisant and understanding

Best wishes,

Ryan Somauroo (Director)

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We recently had CQC arrive for an un-announced inspection, and we are absolutely delighted to have received an overall ‘Good’ rating for the services and facilities we offer. Less than 42% of all inspected care homes in the UK achieve this high rating, so a special thanks goes to all our members of staff who have worked so hard to facilitate this.

As the owner I would like to offer my complete and absolute satisfaction over the standard of care the entire workforce provides. I am distinguishably full of admiration of everyone’s dedication, level of empathy and professionalism over the last four years since taking over ownership of the Home. The patience and composure all the staff consistently apply, irrespective of the physical & emotional hardship placed upon them day by day does not go unnoticed. Admittedly words can’t describe their courage, stamina and dedication to the cause of the elderly. 

I am gratified to hear such positive comments from CQC. Please see below some quotes taken directly from the CQC report:

We welcome all to come and visit us and see for yourself why we are one of the best cares homes in the South West of England.

Many thanks,
Ryan Somauroo
Director

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Ryan Somauroo, director at Bernash Care Home, who is responsible for the bedtime initiative, said, “many of our residents are living with dementia and when they wake during the night it can be confusing to see lots of activity. By going about their work in pyjamas and dressing gowns, our night staff are helping to remind residents that it’s time for bed.”

Reviews left on the leading care home reviews site, carehome.co.uk, show that Bernash Care Home treats their residents with compassion and dignity.

One relative said: “Where do I start? Bernash as a whole is wonderful! The staff and manager, in particular, are the most caring and considerate care home staff that I have met. They go above and beyond on a daily basis to make the care and dignity for my Nan first class. There is always something going on or someone coming.”

Another said: “My Mother has been a resident at Bernash for almost 2 years and my experience during this time has been outstanding with the overall standard of care, facilities and respect for residents being consistently excellent. What stands out for me, however, is the constant effort of management to improve the service and facilities. Communication with us has been really good and appreciated. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a home.”

Shelley Turnbull, Manager at Bernash Care Home said, “The initiative met with a really good response from most of the residents and we’ve seen a drastic improvement in their sleep patterns, so the switch has been made permanent.” She added: “It is remarkable how a simple change in uniform can have such drastic impact on the lives of those living with dementia.”

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Bernash Care Home has been awarded “Top 20 Recommended Care Home in South West England 2019” for a second year running!

The awards highlight the most recommended care homes in the UK based on reviews received from residents, their family and friends by carehome.co.uk.

Carehome.co.uk is an online care home directory which collects reviews of care homes across the UK and rates them in order to assist people looking for good quality care services in their search for the ideal care home.

The website’s ratings cover all aspects about the home, including cleanliness, facilities, food, activities, safety and security, management, value for money and support of residents.

Ryan Somauroo (Director) said: “This Top 20 Award is a testament to the commitment of our talented and caring staff, who work hard to deliver high-quality, person-centred services. We are proud to know that reviews written by residents, their relatives and friends have placed us among the top 20 care homes according to carehome.co.uk and I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to review our services. We pride ourselves on the care we deliver to all of our residents’ and it is always great to receive such fantastic praise for the team and to know that the positive changes that have happened over the last 3 years, since taking over ownership of Bernash Care Home, have been well received.”

Please click on the ‘Top 20 Care Home Award’ image located on the homepage or under FAQs to view our profile.

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The Tovertafel Original is a fun care innovation that connects older people in the late stage of their dementia journey with each other and with their surroundings, all the while stimulating movement. The beautiful games were developed specifically for the target group and can be played both independently and under supervision. 

It was developed for and with people in the moderate to severe stages of dementia. The interactive games break through apathy by stimulating both physical and cognitive activity and encouraging social interaction. Moreover, the Tovertafel creates treasured moments with family members and carers. These games are all about enjoyment and wonder.
 
The Tovertafel is a little box that has been mounted to the ceiling in the dining room. Inside the box is a high-quality projector, infrared sensors, speaker, and processor that work together to project the games onto the table. Because the colourful objects respond to hand and arm movements, residents get to play with the light itself. 

Benefits of the Tovertafel Original

·                  The Tovertafel stimulates physical activity so that residents move more

·                  Older people can play with the Tovertafel independently

·                  The Tovertafel lets people on the dementia journey break through apathy

·                  Everyone can take part at their own level

·                  Promotes valued interactions with other residents, relatives, informal carers and care staff

·                  The Tovertafel does not take up any space and is not in the way

·                  It offers an extensive range of games, each of which has its own goals

For more information on the Tovertafel please visit: https://youtu.be/mm8Vh-XXxzE

Alternatively if you would like to come and see the Tovertafel in action, please contact the Home and the staff would be more than happy to show you.

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Bernash Care Home has been awarded “Top 20 Recommended Care Home in South West England 2018”!

The awards highlight the most recommended care homes in the UK based on reviews received from residents, their family and friends by carehome.co.uk.

Carehome.co.uk is an online care home directory which collects reviews of care homes across the UK and rates them in order to assist people looking for good quality care services in their search for the ideal care home.

The website’s ratings cover all aspects about the home, including cleanliness, facilities, food, activities, safety and security, management, value for money and support of residents.

Ryan Somauroo (Director) said: “This Top 20 Award is a testament to the commitment of our talented and caring staff, who work hard to deliver high-quality, person-centred services. We are proud to know that reviews written by residents, their relatives and friends have placed us among the top 20 care homes according to carehome.co.uk and I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to review our services. We pride ourselves on the care we deliver to all of our residents’ and it is always great to receive such fantastic praise for the team and to know that the positive changes that have happened over the last 18 months, since taking over ownership of Bernash Care Home, have been well received.”

Please click on the ‘Top 20 Care Home Award’ image located on the homepage or under FAQs to view our profile.

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