Healthcare Matters Issue 842

www.healthcarematters.uk

ISSUE 842 – JANUARY 2026

TEL 0121 824 7700

INNOVATIVE MEDICAL

TECHNOLOGY,

PRACTICALLY APPLIED

Awarded Medical Equipment

Manufacturer Company of the Year

Pages 4-5

Transforming healthcare environments

with complete protection solutions

6-7 16-17

25

Training shouldn’t feel like an extra shift. myAko

brings together digital learning, practical skills

and real-world support

MDDUS provides access to some of the UK’s

most experienced experts in the medico and

dento-legal fields

CONTENTS 842

EDITOR’S NOTES

Welcome to our January edition. Explore our hand-picked

features on innovative companies across the healthcare industry.

In this issue, we celebrate Anetic Aid as our Medical Equipment

Manufacturer Company of the Year. A UK-based designer and

manufacturer of medical devices for patient transport, treatment,

and recovery, Anetic Aid is recognised for its commitment to

innovation and quality. This feature spotlights the company’s

flagship product, the QA3 Patient Stretcher, which is purposebuilt

for patient transport, examination, and intubation across

operating theatres and clinical environments. Turn to pages 4-5.

On pages 8-9, we proudly feature Design Prosthetics as our Prosthetics Company of the

Year. When it comes to prosthetic care, trust is everything. Founded by Chris Parsons, this

independent private prosthetic clinic has made a genuine difference in the lives of people

with limb differences. The feature highlights the clinic’s patient-centred philosophy and its

ethical repayment scheme, which together set a new standard in prosthetic care.

Hydration is one of those essential health basics that often goes unnoticed – until

something goes wrong. For people living with ulcerative colitis (UC), however, staying

properly hydrated can be a daily challenge with meaningful health implications.

On page 18, we feature an insightful article by David Noble, Bluewater Group

Communications Officer, titled: Why Good Hydration Matters Even More for People Living

with Diseases Like Ulcerative Colitis.

Other topics covered: Health & Safety, Fire, Safety & Evacuation, Nursing & Care, Dementia

& Care, Training & Development, Disability & Mobility, Technology & Software.

COVER STORY

INNOVATIVE MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY,

PRACTICALLY APPLIED

Awarded Medical Equipment

Manufacturer Company of the Year

Gina Burton

Editor

HEALTHCARE MATTERS

YEOMAN SHIELD

HEALTHCARE

ESTATES

MATTERS

DESIGN PROSTHETICS

PROSTHETICS

COMPANY OF

8-9 THE YEAR

13-14

16

REDRO (MAINTENO)

TECHNOLOGY &

SOFTWARE

MATTERS 11

AATGB

DISABILITY &

MOBILITY

MATTERS

EASYSTART BATTERIES

DISABILITY &

MOBILITY

MATTERS 15

ROBOTHINK

TRAINING &

DEVELOPMENT

MATTERS

MYAKO

TRAINING &

DEVELOPMENT

MATTERS

6-7

16-17

See pages 4-5

CONTACTS

PUBLICATION MANAGEMENT

Kimberley Best Publication Manager

0121 824 7700

kimberleybest@healthcarematters.uk

EDITORIAL

Gina Burton Editor

07483 931474

gina@healthcarematters.uk

PRODUCTION

Robert Sharp Production Manager

production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

ACCOUNTS

Paul Whitaker Accounts Manager

0121 824 4742

accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Contact Sales on 0121 824 7700

kimberleybest@healthcarematters.uk

www.healthcarematters.uk

For more information or format requirements,

please see our Media Pack

Find us on LinkedIn

follow us on Twitter

and

@hcm_uk

Unless stated as news, the entire content

of this publication is advertorial based.

To place an advertorial or an advert,

please call 0121 824 7700.

BLUEWATER GROUP

HEALTH &

WELLBEING

18 MATTERS

AC LEIGH

SECURITY

MATTERS

GLOBEX EVACUATION

SOLUTIONS

FIRE, SAFETY &

21 SECURITY MATTERS

THE CARE HOME

DESIGNER

DEMENTIA &

CARE MATTERS

SPONSORED BY

20

26

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER Company of the Year

Innovative medical technology,

practically applied

In this issue of Healthcare Matters we have featured Anetic Aid as our

Medical Equipment Manufacturer Company of the Year

A

netic Aid is a designer and manufacturer

of medical devices for patient transport,

treatment and recovery in the UK.

Established in 1977, The company’s main

objective has always been simple – help its

clients reduce manual handling and improve

efficiency across clinical areas.

As a world-leading UK-based manufacturer, designer

and supplier of high-quality hospital equipment

and furniture; Anetic Aid takes pride in harnessing

the latest advances in materials and technology

to design and develop products to the highest

standard.

Anetic Aid works closely with clinicians to

continuously develop and improve its patient

trolleys, tourniquets and other equipment. That

means its products are all designed to a high

standard, with exceptional focus on the user and

helping medical teams improve patient experience.

The company provides compact, lightweight and

robust patient stretchers with a huge range of utility

and options. One of its most cutting edge products

is the QA4 Mobile Surgery System. The complete

multi-purpose solution for patient transport,

treatment and recovery is perfect for pre-treatment

and post-treatment patient transport, as a platform

during therapeutic treatment and for post treatment

recovery.

The QA4’s surgical versatility can meet the

requirements of the full basket of procedures and

the one-device approach for transport, treatment

and recovery has extraordinary potential and

benefits. With no need to transfer to and from an

operating table, the risk of manual handling injuries

is reduced and infection is under control with every

device removed from the surgical

pathway, meaning an element of

residual risk associated with

cross-contamination is

eliminated.

The company’s

flapship product

is The QA3

Patient Stretcher.

Designed for

patient transport,

examination

and intubation

in operating

theatres and

clinical areas; this

stretcher’s lightweight

design, hydraulic

lift mechanisms and

operating pedals make for

seamless manoeuvrability.

The anti-microbial pressure

care mattress also relieves

pressure and distributes weight evenly.

Anetic’s QA3 range has a model for every need. The

QA3 DRIVE delivers the same great features as the

QA3 Original with motorised drive for controlled,

effortless travel; while the QA3 Ophthalmic Stretcher

is a hybrid powered patient transport stretcher

and surgical platform specifically designed for

ophthalmic surgery.

The latest product in the QA3 range, is the brand

new QA3 Treatment Stretcher which

offers supreme comfort, optimal

positioning and optimal access.

The QA3 Treatment Stretcher’s

compact design also includes six

powered functions – including

Reverse Trendelenburg. 2025

also saw the launch of a

Bariatric version of

the original QA3, with

increased platform

and mattress

width, DRIVE assist

and powered functions

For Sales Director Andrew

Curtin the breadth of product

development has been

transformative for Anetic, “The

introduction of our QA4 Mobile

Surgery System and QA3 Ophthalmic

Stretcher ends the need for patient

transfer in Theatres and reduces risks

associated with manual handling –

improving efficiency and reduced cross

infection risks caused by patient transfer.

Day surgery trolleys are now a common

sight in most modern healthcare institutions

with dramatic results.”

“Our QA3 DRIVE and QA3 Powered

Stretchers are also a major step forward

when challenged with long transfer distances,

increased patient weights and uphill corridors

Andrew Curtain, Sales Director

– all faced by the clinical team on a

daily basis. Our products can also

be available for trial, so that

clinical teams can better

understand the solutions

available for them.”

The strength of

Anetic Aid lies within

the quality and

effectiveness of

its product range,

however another

key benefit is the

importance of

Anetic Aid as a

UK manufacturer,

supplying capital

equipment to the NHS

and private hospitals.

Acting as a manufacturer,

distributor and maintenance

provider, Anetic Aid is uniquely

placed to ensure its client base

has simple lines of communication

throughout an entire product’s life.

Aligned with this ethos of ongoing support for

clients, Anetic Aid offers

a stellar aftercare and

maintenance service. Dubbed

AnetiCare, this service is

designed for its key product

lines with a 10-year parts and

labour warranty, offering clear life

cost of the product range.

Its service plans are fully

compliant with MHRA

‘Managing Medical Devices’

and CQC guidelines and the

company liaises directly with

clinical teams to plan service

schedules, minimising equipment

downtime. Anetic Aid will also monitor

equipment, ensuring timely, preventative

action to optimise performance.

Uniquely, Anetic Aid holds spare parts in stock so

it’s able to service equipment straight away and

4

HCM IS SPONSORED BY – SEE THEM ON PAGES 8-9

the company uses its own locally-based and fullytrained

engineers for a swift, first-time fix. AnetiCare

also includes an annual pre-planned service to

ensure preventative maintenance and minimal

product downtime.

On top of the direct service and maintenance of

products, Anetic Aid is also dedicated to forging

long term relationships with clients. Clients receive

a dedicated Account Manager and the company

also provides free, certified training on all equipment

so that entire teams can get the most out of their

equipment.

2025 has been a positive year for Anetic Aid and

innovation remains high on the agenda. Product

development, maximising company efficiencies

and, more importantly, developing its environmental

position has been key to the company’s growth in

the past year.

Recently, Anetic Aid achieved carbon neutral

status and plans to continue to work in this area,

always understanding more can be done. Andrew

explained the importance of Anetic Aid’s drive

for sustainability, “As the challenge of Net Zero

approaches, the need to support local providers has

never been more relevant, including the need for

lasting and sustainable products. In a global market,

too little emphasis is placed on a product’s origin,

considering the after care and spares involved. We

hope to continue building the same level of trust our

clients have come to know us for throughout many

more years to come.”

The importance of home production is also

central to recent developments at Anetic. As a UK

manufacturer, 86% of its supply chain remains

UK based, helping sustain the local economy. The

2024 addition of a new robot welding facility at its

production plant, not only improved production

capacity considerably and improved accuracy and

quality of the finished product, but also enabled

Anetic to remain competitive in the domestic market.

Looking toward the future, Anetic Aid is focussed in the

short term on developing great market share for DRIVE

and Powered stretchers, and understanding the issue

surrounding the number of NHS staff on long-term sick

leave due to back incidents. Long term the company

wants to develop a greater client understanding of the

benefits of a manufacturer-backed maintenance and

service programme, in regard to reliability, sustainability

and cost-efficiencies.

We asked Andrew what it meant to be win the award,

“Manufacturing here in the UK for over 50 years, we

have seen many UK medical manufacturers disappear

from our market or re-brand overseas. We value

publications such as Healthcare Matters highlighting

the commitment many organisations, including

ourselves, make to the overall healthcare of the UK.

We are proud of the service we have provided to the

NHS and private sectors, and we hope to continue

that same philosophy for many years to come.”

For more on Anetic Aid, please see below:

01943 878647

sales@aneticaid.com

https://aneticaid.com

HCM IS SPONSORED BY – SEE THEM ON PAGES 8-9 5

HEALTHCARE ESTATES Matters

Transforming healthcare environments

with complete protection solutions

n today’s fast-paced healthcare landscape,

clinical environments must do far more than

Isimply function – they must actively support

patient safety, staff efficiency and operational

excellence. The spaces where patients are

treated and staff work can directly influence

the quality of care, infection control compliance

and the overall patient experience. That’s why

healthcare estates teams across the UK continue

to turn to Yeoman Shield, the nation’s trusted

leader in wall and door protection for nearly

60 years, to future proof their facilities with

intelligent, integrated protection systems.

One of Yeoman Shield’s standout case studies

– undertaken within a newly appointed hospital

department – demonstrates exactly how

transformative the right protection solutions can be.

The brief was typical of many modern healthcare

environments: surfaces needed to withstand

persistent impact from beds, trolleys and medical

equipment; finishes needed to support stringent

hygiene requirements; and the overall interior needed

to help improve patient flow, reduce anxiety and

elevate the care environment. These upgrades also

had to be completed with minimal disruption to a

fully operational clinical setting.

Yeoman Shield met every challenge with precision

– and delivered above expectation.

Protection that performs from day one

Yeoman Shield’s FalmouthEx wall protection panels

were specified to protect the lower sections of

corridors and waiting areas. These high-traffic zones

endure constant use, yet the FalmouthEx system

now provides a long-lasting, impact-resistant, easyclean

surface that dramatically reduces the need for

frequent repairs and repainting.

For estates teams under pressure to maintain

standards while controlling costs, wall protection

delivers instant, visible and measurable return

on investment.

Dual-purpose safety: Protection + user support

To enhance both protection and patient support, the

Guardian Handrail system was installed alongside

the wall panels. This dual-function solution shields

vulnerable walls from damage while providing a

supportive, accessible handrail for patients, visitors

and service users – improving mobility confidence

and contributing to safer, more navigable spaces.

This combination reflects Yeoman Shield’s deep

understanding of clinical environments, where every

component must serve multiple purposes without

compromising safety or dignity.

Transforming clinical spaces into calming,

uplifting environments

Recognising the emotional impact that surroundings

have on patient wellbeing, Yeoman Shield

incorporated full-length Imagery Panels featuring

soothing views of the Yorkshire countryside. These

panels add a biophilic, calming influence – softening

the clinical atmosphere and helping reduce anxiety

for patients and visitors alike.

At the same time, the imagery acts as a powerful

wayfinding tool, helping to clearly distinguish zones

and improve the overall flow through the department.

A turnkey service built around healthcare needs

A defining strength of Yeoman Shield is its fully

integrated, end-to-end service. From initial survey

and detailed specification to expert installation and

comprehensive aftercare, Yeoman Shield manages

every step – ensuring accuracy, consistency and

minimal burden on estates teams.

range of products engineered specifically for the

demands of clinical settings, including:

: Door edge guards, protection plates and door

cladding

: Architrave and door frame protection systems

: Corner protectors and skirting systems

: Handrails, crash rails/protection rails and bed

head protectors

: Fire-rated materials and protective systems

: Complete fire door services – including fire

door surveys, inspections, installations, remedial

works, maintenance, compliance upgrades and

full replacements

By delivering both impact protection and fire door

safety solutions under one trusted provider, Yeoman

Shield simplifies procurement processes while

supporting long-term asset protection, operational

efficiency and regulatory compliance.

A partner committed to excellence in healthcare

environments

In a sector where hygiene, durability and patient

experience are constantly scrutinised, high-quality

protection systems are not optional – they are

essential. This case study highlights how Yeoman

Shield’s thoughtful, expertly installed solutions

can dramatically improve the longevity, safety

and overall quality of healthcare interiors.

All installations are carried out by Yeoman Shield’s

own directly employed operatives, experienced

in working discreetly and safely within live clinical

settings. Crucially, installation teams are available

to work all hours, adapting schedules around the

operational demands of hospitals so that essential

improvements can be completed swiftly and without

disrupting patient care.

Beyond wall protection: A complete portfolio for

healthcare estates

This case study represents just one example from

Yeoman Shield’s long-established portfolio within

healthcare environments. With nearly six decades of

experience, the company provides a comprehensive

For estate managers seeking to enhance

environmental standards, reduce reactive

maintenance and create more positive patient

experiences, Yeoman Shield provides not only

premium products but the professionalism,

healthcare expertise and flexibility to deliver

exceptional results every time.

For safer, smarter and longer-lasting

healthcare environments, Yeoman Shield

remains the partner of choice:

0113 279 5854

info@yeomanshield.com

www.yeomanshield.com

6


PROSTHETICS Company of the Year

A personal approach to life

In this issue of Healthcare Matters, we are pleased to feature Design

Prosthetics as our Prosthetics Company of the Year

W

hen it comes to your prosthesis, trust

is everything. Chris Parsons, founder

of Design Prosthetics Ltd, leads an

independent private prosthetic clinic in Lewes,

East Sussex. With more than 40 years of

experience in prosthetics and orthotics,

Chris has dedicated his career to delivering

high-quality, personalised solutions that

genuinely improve the lives of people with

limb differences.

2025 was a steady year of growth for the company,

and we managed to speak to Chris who explained

how the last 12 months have been, “I've seen a

continued rise in enquiries from amputees and their

families, due to poor perceived outcomes from

local NHS centres and the private sector. Business

has remained steady for the last three years,

and most recently, I have established a working

partnership with a local aesthetic clinic, hiring out a

really nice clinical space with admin support, which

enhances the client experience, although many of

my clients love the no-frills art studio vibe of my

workshop too!”

Chris has spent 26 years working within the NHS,

serving as both a prosthetist and a service/contract

manager. During this time, he witnessed the

increasing challenges faced by patients, including

ill-fitting prostheses and a lack of personalised

care. Frustrated by systemic limitations and

a decline in service quality, Chris decided to

establish Design Prosthetics in 2018.

At Design Prosthetics, Chris emphasises a

patient-centred approach, offering ample time to

understand each individual’s unique needs and

goals. Seeing you as a partner, and not a number

or a patient, his commitment is to providing

prostheses that offer comfort, control, and

confidence, ensure that clients can lead

fulfilling lives.

Specialising in upper and lower limb prosthetics,

traumatic, vascular, and congenital, Chris has built

prosthetics for all types of amputees, and this is

why he understands, and has solved, problems

others can’t.

Knowing the exact reasons why most prosthesis

isn’t fit for purpose mainly comes down to waiting

lists, decreased funding, and skill shortages,

with Chris arguing that when patients are told

‘there simply aren’t enough resources to give you

what you need,’ simply isn’t good enough from a

medical professional.

In the past, Chris has voiced how alarming it is, the

decline of prosthetic services in the UK, whilst all

the while very frustrating for prosthetics too. This is

a large part of why Chris chose to go private.

“I didn’t want to see people having to settle for

half-measures. I wanted to help people get their

dream prosthesis because when they do – it

changes their life. And my process means you’re

guaranteed a prosthesis that works for you, or

there’s no charge.”

This philosophy is formalised in Design Prosthetics’

unique money-back guarantee, a rare commitment

within the private prosthetics sector. Chris

believes that no client should carry financial risk

when investing in something as life-changing as

a prosthesis. If a prosthesis does not meet the

agreed goals or perform as required in real life,

clients are not left out of pocket.

With many people often already let down by the

system, to then ask his clients to take a leap of

faith – financially and emotionally – just didn’t feel

right with Chris. Fully believing that if he can’t

deliver with what was first agreed, Chris takes the

full responsibility into his own hands.

Alongside this guarantee and reassurance, Design

Prosthetics also offers a flexible repayment

scheme, helping to remove financial barriers that

prevent amputees from accessing high-quality,

8


-changing prosthetic care

from start to finish. This continuity allows for

rapid refinement, clear communication and an

exceptional level of accountability.

personalised care. By spreading costs over

manageable instalments, clients are able to focus

on rehabilitation, mobility and confidence – rather

than upfront expense.

This transparent, ethical approach reflects Chris’s

belief that prosthetic care should be built on

trust, accountability and outcomes, not pressure

or compromise. It also reinforces why Design

Prosthetics has become a go-to choice for clients

seeking an alternative

to overstretched NHS

services and impersonal

private providers.

By combining decades

of clinical expertise

with genuine financial

reassurance, Design

Prosthetics stands

apart – not just for the

prostheses it creates,

but for the integrity behind every decision. For

clients, it means peace of mind, confidence in their

investment, and the assurance that their prosthetist

is as committed to success as they are.

At the heart of Design Prosthetics is a truly holistic

approach to care - one that places the individual,

not the device, at the centre of the process. From

the very first consultation, Chris Parsons takes

the time to understand far more than a client’s

physical requirements.

Lifestyle, ambitions,

daily challenges and

long-term goals all shape

the design process,

ensuring each prosthesis

is tailored to the person

as a whole, not just their

limb difference.

This personalised care

continues seamlessly

through every stage of

manufacture. Unlike

many clinics where

clinical assessment,

fabrication and finishing are split across different

departments or outsourced entirely, Chris

completes the entire process himself, on-site. “I

complete all manufacturing and finishing myself

on-site,” he said.

From casting or digital scanning through to

socket manufacture, iterative adjustments and

final finishing, clients work with the same expert

A key element of this approach is real-world

testing. Rather than relying solely on in-clinic

fittings, Chris provides prototype sockets that

clients can trial at home over several weeks. This

allows the prosthesis to be assessed in everyday

situations, with feedback gathered and directly

translated into refinements. Because Chris is both

the clinician and the fabricator, adjustments are

informed by lived experience and implemented

immediately, without delay or dilution.

The final prosthesis is only completed once

comfort, control and confidence are fully achieved.

Finishing touches – whether functional or

aesthetic – are carried out with the same care and

attention as the clinical elements, reinforcing the

sense that each prosthesis is a bespoke piece of

craftsmanship rather than a standardised medical

product.

This end-to-end, hands-on model embodies

Design Prosthetics’ philosophy: prosthetic care

should be personal, responsive and outcomedriven.

By combining clinical expertise with

traditional craftsmanship and complete ownership

of the process, Chris Parsons delivers not just

a prosthesis, but a solution shaped around the

individual – restoring independence, trust and

quality of life.

Looking ahead, we asked Chris what his plans

are for the future both short and long-term, “I will

continue to work hard to ensure the company

core aims of Comfort, Control and Confidence

remain my top priority, alongside maintaining

and increasing my knowledge of state-of-the-art

developments within the prosthetics industry.”

In closing, we asked Chris how he felt about

receiving the award, “I feel honoured that my humble

little clinic has been recognised for the contribution

I have made in changing and supporting the lives of

amputees and their families.”

Please contact:

07468 605081

info@designprosthetics.co.uk

https://designprosthetics.co.uk/contact


TECHNOLOGY & SOFTWARE Matters

In an Ocean of Data: How can

Sensio turn insights into action for you?

When you’re thinking about

safety monitoring solutions

for your care home, you need

more than a technology provider

– you need a long-term trusted

partner. As global leading specialists

we help care teams move from the

‘professional best guess’ to real-time

data to guide better care decisions,

so we’re asking:

: Are your teams having to manually

undertake hourly night-time checks

for residents?

: Are you finding that a resident’s care

needs can change over time?

: Do you now need more time, more

resources and more support than

before to support your residents in

the best way possible?

We invest £15 million into research and

development annually to make sure

that our advanced sensor technology

supports and resolves these challenges.

We’re driven by innovation but care

comes first, and we’re committed to

providing the sector with the tools and

time they need to continue delivering

outstanding person-centred care.

Beyond falls prevention

Falls are among the most common

risks for individuals in elderly care

and therefore falls prevention and

detection should be a part of everyday

life in a care home. However, your

digital partner should be able to

provide a complete understanding of a

resident’s daily routine. At Sensio, our

revolutionary solutions prevent falls,

improve sleep and help teams prioritise.

Our silent nurse call system, combined

with anonymised sensor technology,

RoomMate, detects movement and

alerts teams to potential fall risks before

they happen. With fewer physical

checks needed, residents remain

undisturbed while your team has more

time to focus on delivering care where

it’s needed most.

Unique residents, unique care

When you choose Sensio you’ll

be able to further understand your

residents’ unique needs and tailor

their care accordingly. As we know,

routine observations or conversations

with family members may not reveal

everything. Sensio 365 and Insight

gather data on nighttime activity,

movement and bathroom visits to build

a true picture – guiding teams, residents

and relatives in making better care

decisions together.

Like many others, we exist to make

care better. But what else sets us

apart?

: Change management and

customer

service: We know

technology is only

helpful when it is

actually adopted

appropriately. Care

teams are stretched

and don’t need

the added overwhelm of complex

solutions. Our hands-on onboarding

means we spend time with partners

on-site adapting the service and

tailoring the system collaboratively.

: UK care knowledge: Our UK team

brings together people who’ve spent

years working in care. That real-life

experience shapes everything we do.

We’re constantly learning from those

who live and breathe care every day.

: Co-creation and collaboration:

We co-create technology by

working closely with care teams

to adapt systems on the ground.

As care needs evolve, so does our

technology – refined by experts

behind the scenes and shaped by

real-world feedback.

And ultimately, we envision a

world where older people live more

independently, families worry less,

and care teams thrive.

For further information and

support, please visit:

www.sensio.com

10


TECHNOLOGY & SOFTWARE Matters

Mainteno: Smart facilities management

for the care home sector

Mainteno is a

forward-thinking

CMMS and CAFM

platform designed to

streamline facilities and

maintenance management

so care organisations

can operate with greater

clarity and efficiency. Built

with practicality in mind, it

supports the smooth running

of buildings, assets, and dayto-day

maintenance activities

across the care sector.

The critical partnership:

Care and compliance

The core mission of a care

home is the safety and

wellbeing of its residents,

which means teams must

stay focused on delivering

personalised, high-quality

care. Mainteno strengthens

this mission by taking

Mainteno is a

complete, costeffective

solution

for task facilities

management.

Whether it’s

managing planned maintenance or dealing with

fault repairs, Mainteno simplifies the day-to-day

maintenance of almost any organisation.

Usability made affordable

Mainteno was designed with practicality in mind. The

interface is so intuitive that basic operation can be learned

in minutes, and you can be a power user in one afternoon.

Elegant usability usually means a hefty price tag – so

our customers are often surprised to learn just how

affordable Mainteno is.

No set-up fees, no lengthy contracts. Mainteno adapts

to any organisation’s maintenance needs.

responsibility for the physical

environment. It helps ensure

that buildings, systems, and

assets remain safe, reliable,

and compliant for both

residents and staff.

By integrating Mainteno into

daily operations, facilities

teams gain complete

oversight of their estate while

removing the inefficiencies

of manual processes and

scattered paperwork. This

partnership ensures every

care home environment is

safe, fully compliant, and

supportive of the work

happening on the frontline.

Why care providers choose

Mainteno

Mainteno provides the

robust and efficient

technology needed by

Our award-winning software keeps everyone in

the loop and archives all your communication

and documentation in one place. For total

control of your organisation’s assets,

Mainteno also seamlessly incorporates asset

management and tracking.

Mainteno streamlines every aspect of the

maintenance management process, saving

your organisation time and money.

today’s facilities teams in the

care sector.

Ensuring safety and

compliance

Mainteno centralises

every aspect of facilities

management, giving team’s full

visibility and control over asset

performance, maintenance

schedules, reactive repairs,

and compliance requirements.

This helps reduce risk and

ensures key safety checks are

completed on-time.

Improving productivity and

response times

By simplifying communication

and workflows, Mainteno

helps organisations achieve

faster response times, lower

operational costs, and

improved productivity across

multiple sites.

Centralised control and

clear audit trails

The platform unites all

essential tools in one

secure place. Maintenance

scheduling, fault reporting,

contractor management, and

document tracking become

easier to manage, and teams

benefit from a complete

audit trail for inspections and

regulatory reviews.

Accessible and scalable

for every care setting

Mainteno is built to adapt to

the evolving needs of single

care homes and multisite

operators. Its intuitive

interface means staff can get

up and running quickly, with

no costly setup fees or long

contracts.

Security and support when

it matters

Data protection is a

priority, supported by

strong security measures

and a dedicated

customer support team

that ensures users

always have the guidance

they need.

Key Features for Care

Sector Excellence

Mainteno feature

Care home application/

Safety benefit

Centralised asset

management

Full visibility over asset

performance to predict and

prevent failures of critical

equipment such as nurse

call systems and heating.

Maintenance scheduling

Simplifies planned preventative

maintenance for all compliance

checks, reducing risk and

operational disruption.

Fault reporting (Reactive

repairs)

Enables quick logging of

reactive repairs and supports

faster response times to

urgent issues.

Digital checklists

Creates structured digital

checklists for routine safety

checks such as water

temperature and fire safety,

supporting accountability.

Document tracking

Organises essential

documents such as

warranties and service

records to maintain a clear

audit trail for regulators.

With Mainteno as a partner,

facilities management

becomes clearer, smarter, and

more connected, allowing

care homes to focus on what

matters most: providing safe,

supportive, high-quality care

to every individual.

Contact David Lattimer,

07818 038205

http://www.redro.co.uk

http://www.mainteno.com


AAT steps up to address funding delays

With a number of factors currently

impacting panel allocation of money,

AAT’s re-issue aka re-prescription ensures

OT clients are given access and mobility

within their home environment quickly,

and for less than £1,500!

Where relevant and suitable, AAT’s

S-Max stairclimber can deliver safe

stairway access within days whether as a

permanent solution or whilst funding for

an alternative adaptation is arranged.

The battery-powered S-Max either

attached to a wheelchair or with integral

seat (S-Max Sella) – carries the disabled

person up, down stairs safely and

smoothly. The process is controlled

by the carer.

S-Max’s design and function means

there is no installation/attachment to the

building fabric.

S-Max can complete the stairway

navigation and continue onward,

eliminating transfer at the top or

bottom of the flight.

Critically in these days of budget

ision Engineering, global leader in ergonomic

Vmicroscopy, stereo imaging and metrology

solutions, announces the launch of ProteQ VISO,

a digital stereo microscope with a fully integrated

‘autostereo’ display, enabling true flat screen 3D

image viewing without traditional eyepieces.

Engineered for advanced inspection labs and

design, new product development, manufacturing

applications and prototyping functions, ProteQ

VISO offers a leap forward in user comfort,

collaborative efficiency and digital versatility,

compared with 2D systems – ideal for precision

workflows including electronics, manufacturing,

prototyping, and medical device development.

Autostereo display

ProteQ VISO’s autostereo is an IPS LCD Display

technology that does not require additional

glasses or any other tools to provide vivid 3D

images. Viewers enjoy the immersive experience of

3D images with less visual fatigue. Twin cameras

located in the monitor track the position of the

user’s head and direct separate images to each

eye, ensuring the user receives perfectly clear 3D

images, whilst enabling freedom of head movement.

Designed for ergonomics, built for efficiency

ProteQ VISO’s upright viewing position, adjustable

screen, and eye-point comfort redefine ergonomic

microscopy – minimising fatigue and maximising

productivity over extended sessions. Combined

with live magnification indication and seamless

10:1 optical zoom, users can work with precision

and ease.

constraint and delay, when the S-Max is

no longer needed by the original recipient,

it can be re-issued/re-prescribed to

another.

Re-issue including a full PEOP

assessment, servicing of the stairclimber,

setting it up for the new user and training

of their carer(s) costs £1,500. The funding

application process is therefore avoided.

“The latest data available shows more

than two-thirds of Councils exceeded

the required 12 months for DFG-funded

adaptations. One of the most common

adaptations is stairway access. That’s a

huge number of people who are being

left at risk, unable to safely navigate their

home,” says Peter Wingrave, AAT Director.

“Taking advantage of our unique reissue

facility means that risk is managed,

quickly and cost-effectively.”

“Councils are constantly being urged

to think outside the box to address the

continuing adaptation delay. The success

of our re-issue programme is proving this

re-prescription approach is a proven, best

value way to achieve safe home access

quickly.”

The microscope’s stereo

image capabilities enhance

depth perception, allowing

intuitive 3D interaction during

inspection and prototyping.

When collaboration is key,

users can choose to switch

to mono viewing, enabling

real-time discussion and

shared analysis – whether in

person or remotely.

Empowering digital

collaboration &

connectivity

ProteQ VISO introduces a

suite of digital features for

modern technical teams:

: Image Capture, Playback,

and Streaming: Capture

images and video to USB

or PC and share effortlessly

across platforms.

: Picture-in-Picture & Overlays: Reference

views alongside live images with overlay

support and preset saving.

: Annotation & Dimensioning Tools: Add notes,

measure features, and streamline reports

: Peripheral & Network Integration: Compatible

with external software such as Dimension two;

users can access emails, Teams, and files

directly from the interface.

The system also includes thoughtful touches for

delicate applications – low-heat lighting, and a

DISABILITY & MOBILITY Matters

Full details of AAT’s re-issue are

explained on the company’s dedicated

OT page on its website:

https://www.aatgb.com/ots

MEDICAL DEVICE TECHNOLOGIES Matters

Vision Engineering unveils ProteQ VISO: A digital stereo

microscope set to redefine inspection and design workflows

separatable display for both

safety and clean cabinet

setups. With lockable

detents, quick-change

lighting components,

optional 360 degree viewer,

and sub-stage illumination,

ProteQ VISO supports

precision with flexibility.

A leap forward in

microscopy innovation

“ProteQ VISO marks the

next generation of ergonomic

desktop digital microscopy,”

said Paul Newbatt, Group

Sales and Marketing Director

at Vision Engineering. “It

empowers teams to work

faster, collaborate smarter,

and stay comfortable – all

while experiencing true

stereo clarity on-screen.”

ProteQ VISO is available to order now direct

from Vision Engineering direct, or via its global

distribution network. Prices start from £12,000.

For detailed specifications, pricing, or to

place your order, please contact Vision

Engineering as follows:

+44 (0)1483 248300

enquiries@visioneng.co.uk

https://www.visioneng.com/proteqviso


DISABILITY & MOBILITY Matters

AAT raises the bar in bed-to-bed transfer of patients

ccording to latest data, ambulance crews

Ahave the highest sickness rate in the NHS.

Back and musculoskeletal problems are the

2nd biggest cause of absence 1 .

AAT – Britain’s leading provider of stairclimbing

wheelchairs has a solution.

cutting work-related injuries and sickness and

consequent costs.

Accessories including holding devices for

oxygen tanks and a Universal Back to ensure

every patient can be supported and secured

during the transfer process are available.

Its C-Max U2 ambulance stairclimber is

becoming an established bed-to-bed transfer

device: hundreds are already in use from one

end of the UK to the other.

What sets the battery-powered C-Max above

alternative means of safely manouevring

patients from home to ambulance to hospital is

its ease of use and reduction of risk to patients

and crew.

When not in use, the C-Max U2 folds to stow

compactly away, optimising space.

“The business case for using a stairclimber in

ambulances is irrefutable,” says Peter Wingrave,

AAT Director. “Numerous Services from Scotland

to Devon have already adopted the C-Max. They

are seeing proven, tangible improvements in both

customer satisfaction, improved passenger safety

during transfer, and staff health & wellbeing.”

Case study: Harnessing

gravity for sensory calming

or the O’Kane family, complex

Fmotor and sensory disabilities

affecting their son made daily life

stressful for all – until they discovered

gravity….

It’s a particular type of gravity –

AAT’s Gravity Chair foam positioning

system. The chair’s low centre of

gravity and high arm rests brought

stability, security, confidence and a

feeling of wellbeing. Shaped to fit

the person’s body closely, Gravity

The machine has an integral seat and safety belt,

and a unique crash-tested locking mechanism/

battery charger for within the ambulance. Thus,

the paramedic team need only execute one

transfer of the patient at each end of the journey.

The C-Max safely transports patients up and

down stairs and steps, and into and out of the

ambulance. C-Max can navigate 25 flights of

steps from a single battery charge too.

C-Max enables the patient transfer process to

be executed by just one or two team members,

depending on operational protocols. It can

accommodate patients up to 140kg, whilst its

bariatric version C-Max CR230 can address

weights up to 230kg. C-Max thereby reduces

loading and strain on staff, significantly

Chair brings enhanced self-and

environmental perception without the

need for harnessing.

A range of accessories, including

wedges, pommels and rockers, means

Gravity Chair can be personalised to

each person’s specific needs.

Originally suggested by the family’s

Occupational Therapist, Gravity Chair

has been so good at helping their son

relax that the family is now on its third

one, having gravitated from small to

large as he has grown over the years.

“Gravity Chair has had such a positive

effect on our son’s life, it’s been a

transformative journey!” says mum.

“Gravity Chair gives him a safe and

non-restrictive seating option. He

often needs to sensory seek. Gravity

Chair enables him to calm and focus.

It’s really helped with his sensory and

motor disabilities.”

Full details of Gravity Chair,

including a clinical study and

real-life examples, can be found

at: www.aatgb.com/gravitychair,

where visitors can also

book a free and no obligation

assessment.

spray Tunbridge

AWells, Eastbourne and

Maidstone is proud to be a

sponsor of the The Crystal

Ball, hosted by the Children’s

Respite Trust taking place

on Saturday 8th November

at the Winter Garden,

Eastbourne.

Children’s Respite Trust

provide much-needed

support to families who care for

disabled children 24 hours a day. The

respite they offer comes in various

forms, whether that is at home through

a Children’s Respite Trust support

worker, or attending regular out and

about activities. The charity also offers

a respite centre in Uckfield, a fun and

colourful place where families can

socialise with others facing similar

challenges.

The flagship fundraising event, The

Crystal Ball, raises vital funds for

the charity to continue offering their

services to hundreds of families across

Surrey and Kent. Along with several

other business, the sponsorship

provided by Aspray Tunbridge Wells,

Eastbourne and Maidstone helps

ensure the Trust can put on these

important fundraiser.

Added Louis Nicholls, Patient Transport Officer at

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust,

which now has 10 C-Maxs, “The stairclimbers

not only help our team to support people with

limited mobility, but more importantly allow

us to offer a higher level of service for people

across Torbay and South Devon.”

Full details of AAT’s solutions for

ambulance are available on a dedicated

section of its website:

https://www.aatgb.com/ambulance

1) https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/

publications/statistical/nhs-sickness-absence-rates/

december-2024

Local businesses join forces to

support Children’s Respite Trust

at Crystal Masquerade Ball

At Aspray Tunbridge Wells,

Eastbourne and Maidstone, our work

centres on helping people through

difficult times by managing property

damage insurance claims on their

behalf. Supporting the Children’s

Respite Trust feels like a natural

extension of that commitment;

both organisations are about being

there when people need it most. We

believe it’s important to give back

to the communities we serve, and

sponsoring the Crystal Masquerade

Ball is one way we can help make a

difference for local families.

For more information about

the services offered by the

Children’s Respite Services,

please get in touch on:

01825 817417 or email:

info@crtcharity.org.

14


TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT Matters

Growth STEMs from passion

for code as RoboThink gains

praise in Parliament

north London

A business, which

helps children

to learn coding

through handson

engineering

projects, is set for

expansion, following

praise in Parliament

for its work in

helping to develop

STEM skills.

RoboThink is a

leading STEM, coding for children,

robotics, and engineering program

nurturing budding geniuses across

27 countries reaching thousands

of students each day. In the UK, it

already has 7 franchise locations,

including its headquarters in

Stanmore and two in Harrow

(Pinner and Ruislip).

Other locations include; Hornsey,

Buckhurst Hill (Essex), Borehamwood

(Herts), Medway (Rochester) with

more locations set to open this year

across the UK as franchisees find the

perfect way to blend their passion

for STEM subjects with a chance to

create a new business opportunity.

Last month, the business earned high

Why myAko believes blended learning works in

health and social care

In health and social care, training

only matters if it changes

practice. That’s why blended

learning is increasingly recognised

as the most effective and credible

approach, and why it aligns so

closely with the expectations of

the Care Quality Commission

and Skills for Care.

praise in Parliament during a debate

on Digital Skills when Lisa Cameron

MP (East Kilbride, Strathaven and

Lesmahagow) spoke positively about

RoboThink, emphasising its significant

contribution to STEM education.

Unlike other STEM centers, RoboThink’s

designs and manufactures a proprietary

line of STEM products with kids and

ease of use in mind. Every minute

detail is considered and products are

manufactured to exacting specifications.

They use only the best quality

plastics, metals and tooling machines

during the manufacturing process.

Please visit:

https://www.robothink.co.uk

Work-based learning empowers

Patricia Mathias-Lloyd’s return to

education

he University of

TWales Trinity Saint

David (UWTSD) is

proud to celebrate

the achievement of

Patricia Mathias-

Lloyd, a Work-

Based Education

Development

Manager at Health

Education and

Improvement Wales

(HEIW), who recently

graduated with an

MA in Professional Practice. Patricia

returned to academic study after

more than a decade, using the

Professional Practice Framework

(PPF) programme to reflect on her

extensive professional experience,

strengthen her leadership skills, and

take the next step in her career in

healthcare education.

Patricia opted for the MA in

Professional Practice because of

its flexible, work-based learning

structure. With aspirations to

step into a senior

management role,

she identified the

programme as being

perfectly aligned

for her professional

development and

succession planning.

Patricia also remarked

on, “Wanting to be a

role model to my team

and learners to support

with their development.”

A key turning point in

Patricia’s journey was her

decision to claim credit

for experiential learning,

a process that enabled

her to reflect on a decade

of professional development and

achievements that had previously not

been recognised. She adds, “Claiming

credit for experiential learning was key

to achieving this award. Being able to

see how far I had come after critically

investigating what and how I had

learnt was enlightening. I had worked

on significant pieces of work both

locally and nationally and they have

all contributed to my development. It

is only since undertaking this module

that I have realised how significant

they have been.”

For more information about the Professional

Practice Framework, please visit:

https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/professionalpractice-framework

Blended learning combines

eLearning, tutor-led learning,

face-to-face and virtual sessions,

and competency assessments,

all aligned to your organisation’s

own policies, procedures, and

safe working practices. It reflects how people

actually learn and how safe care is delivered.

Why one learning method is not enough

Research consistently shows that people retain

around 10% of what they read, but up to 75%

of what they practise and apply. eLearning

alone builds knowledge, but it cannot confirm

competence. Classroom or virtual training

supports discussion but learning fades without

reinforcement. Competency assessments

alone test outcomes, not understanding.

Blended learning links these together, turning

knowledge into confident, safe action.

Why this aligns with CQC and Skills for Care

CQC does not ask whether staff completed

a course. It asks whether staff are competent,

supported, and delivering safe care. Skills

for Care is equally clear that learning must

be ongoing, role-relevant, and embedded in

practice.

Blended learning provides clear evidence of:

: Learning journeys, not one-off events

: Training aligned to organisational practice

: Real-world competence, not just

attendance

Why this benefits everyone

For learners, blended learning builds

confidence, clarity, and consistency.

For organisations, it reduces risk and

strengthens regulatory assurance.

For service users, it leads to safer, more

reliable, person-centred care.

Blended learning is not more training.

It is better training, designed for real-world

care

Please visit for more information:

01202 283283

hello@myako.com

https://www.myako.online

16


Blended learning that works for carers

myAko brings together, digital learning, competency

assessments, safe working practises integrated into

one App. Practical real-world support so that carers

can learn smarter, not harder.

Chat with us

www.myAko.online

hello@myAko.com

01202 283283

Built for busy days,

unexpected days and

the days when the kettle

breaks again.

HEALTH & WELLBEING Matters

Why good hydration matters

even more for people living with

diseases like ulcerative colitis

By David Noble, Bluewater Group Communications Officer

ydration is one of those health

fundamentals most of us rarely think

Habout until something goes wrong. But for

people living with ulcerative colitis (UC), it can

be a daily concern with real consequences.

A recent article in Medical News Today has brought

renewed attention to the link between hydration

and UC, highlighting how easily fluid balance can

be disrupted during a flare. The reporting draws

on established medical understanding of the

condition, which affects the colon and causes

chronic inflammation, often accompanied by

diarrhoea, abdominal pain and fatigue.

During a flare, the inflamed colon struggles to

absorb water efficiently. Frequent bowel movements

further accelerate fluid loss, increasing the risk of

dehydration – sometimes before patients realise it

is happening. According to clinicians cited in the

article, this combination makes people with UC

particularly vulnerable, especially during periods of

sustained inflammation.

The issue goes beyond simple thirst. Alongside

water, the body loses electrolytes such as

sodium and potassium, which are essential for

muscle function, nerve signalling and maintaining

energy levels. When these minerals fall out of

balance, symptoms can intensify. Muscle cramps,

dizziness and headaches are common, as is the

overwhelming fatigue that many people with UC

describe as one of the condition’s most debilitating

aspects.

Medical News Today lists several warning signs

that dehydration may be setting in: very dark urine,

light-headedness, headaches, muscle cramps and

a persistently dry mouth. These are symptoms

many people might dismiss in everyday life, but for

those managing UC they warrant closer attention

and, in some cases, medical advice.

Dietary choices also play a role. Certain drinks can

worsen symptoms or increase fluid loss. Sugary

fizzy drinks, strong coffee, energy drinks and

alcohol are all known to irritate the gut in some

people or act as diuretics, drawing more water out

of the body. While they may seem appealing when

energy is low, they can exacerbate dehydration

during a flare.

The good news is that maintaining hydration does

not require drastic measures. Health professionals

tend to recommend small, frequent sips of fluid

rather than large volumes at once, which can be

harder to tolerate. Electrolyte drinks may be helpful

during periods of increased loss, while water-rich

foods such as fruit can also contribute to overall

intake.

Perhaps most importantly, hydration needs to be

consistent. Waiting until thirst sets in can already

mean the body is playing catch-up. For people

with chronic gastrointestinal conditions, building

hydration into the rhythm of the day is often more

effective than responding reactively to symptoms.

Water quality also influences drinking habits.

People are more likely to drink regularly if water

tastes clean and fresh. This has driven growing

interest in home water purification, particularly

among those managing long-term health

conditions. Bluewater, a Swedish water purification

and beverage company with global sales, uses

proprietary SuperiorOsmosis technology

designed to remove contaminants while preserving

water quality and taste – an approach that reflects

broader consumer demand for reliable, purified

drinking water.

The focus on hydration sits within a wider

conversation about preventative health and

wellbeing. Over the past year, Bluewater has

seen increased attention for products aimed at

improving water quality in homes, cafés and public

venues, alongside recognition from international

design and food industry bodies. The company

was among those named in the Global 100 –

2026 Awards for its work in health and wellness,

reflecting growing interest in how water quality

intersects with daily health choices.

Industry recognition, however, is only part of the

picture. Public awareness around hydration – and

its health role in managing chronic conditions

– remains uneven. While UC affects hundreds

of thousands of people in the UK, the practical

challenges of living with it are often poorly

understood outside specialist settings.

Hydration rarely features in headline discussions

about treatment, which tend to focus on

medication, diet and disease management. Yet for

many patients, maintaining fluid and electrolyte

balance can make a meaningful difference to how

manageable daily life feels, particularly during

periods of active disease.

As healthcare continues to place greater

emphasis on self-management and quality of

life, hydration deserves a more prominent place

in the conversation. It is not a cure, but it is a

foundational support – one that can help the body

cope better with the demands UC places upon it.

For the wider public, the lesson is equally simple.

Water underpins almost every function in the body,

and when health is compromised, its importance only

increases. Paying attention to what – and how – we

drink may be one of the most straightforward steps

we can take towards better long-term wellbeing.

Please visit

https://www.bluewatergroup.com

18


A s a specialist

healthcare

health and safety

practitioner, I work with

healthcare providers

to help senior leaders

understand where

responsibility truly

sits and how risks

to patients, staff

and visitors can be

evidenced as being

effectively controlled in practice. Through my

consultancy, accuSafe, my focus is on supporting

organisations to move beyond documented

compliance to genuine, demonstrable assurance.

A Chief Executive once sat in a board meeting

confidently stating that health and safety risks were

‘under control.’ Policies were in place and audits

were green. Three months later, a serious incident

occurred. During the investigation, she was asked

what evidence she had that those risks were being

controlled day to day – not just documented. The

gap between what she assumed and what she

could demonstrate was uncomfortable.

She wasn’t negligent. She cared deeply. But she

had been seeking reassurance when she should

have been demanding assurance.

The shift in accountability

Regulatory expectations in healthcare are increasingly

stringent. Investigations focus not only on what

happened, but on what risks were known, what

decisions were made, what controls were in place,

and what evidence shows leadership oversight.

Under Section 37 of the Health and Safety at Work etc.

Act 1974, senior individuals can be held personally

accountable where an offence is committed with their

consent, connivance, or attributable to their neglect.

This responsibility extends beyond board directors

to partners, senior leaders and others with influence

over how risks are prioritised and managed.

This is not about fear. It is about ensuring those with

responsibility have the clarity and support needed

to make informed decisions that protect patients,

staff and services. Good intentions do not provide

HEALTH & SAFETY Matters

Leadership, accountability and patient safety: Why

health & safety responsibility can no longer be assumed

By Nicky Cheetham-Whitfield,

Principal Health & Safety Consultant,

accuSafe Consulting Ltd

legal protection. Delegation does not remove

accountability. Assumptions are not evidence.

What effective leadership looks like?

Healthcare leaders who manage this well seek

clarity rather than comfort. They value evidence

of control over policies alone and understand how

systems perform under real pressure, including staff

shortages, high demand and competing priorities.

Practical steps include clearly defining

accountability, establishing evidencebased

oversight rather than relying solely on

documentation, creating early-warning indicators

that surface concerns before they escalate, and

regularly asking: If we were scrutinised tomorrow,

what evidence demonstrates we led responsibly?

From compliance to confidence

Organisations move from compliance to confidence

when leaders can demonstrate how health and

safety is exercised in everyday practice. Confidence

grows not because risk disappears, but because

leadership can evidence how it is being managed.

Health and safety leadership in healthcare is not

about bureaucracy or blame. It is about clarity,

confidence and control, and understanding that

responsibility is no longer optional.

Contact

0333 012 4045

enquiries@accusafe.uk

https://accusafe.uk


SECURITY Matters

The new generation

of DDA-compliant

keyless entry

systems increase

security and

disabled access

A

C Leigh is the leading provider of modern

access and security solutions that utilise

reader control units instead of traditional

keys. This is often referred to as a keyless entry

system.

The expert security team at AC Leigh is the UK’s

leading SALTO Platinum Partner, installing SALTO

access control and security systems at hundreds

of sites, including NHS healthcare facilities and

Cambridge educational institutions. For over 20

years, AC Leigh’s access and security department

has developed unmatched expertise working with

SALTO’s keyless technologies. The next generation

of access solutions is here.

What is a keyless entry system?

A keyless entry system allows access to buildings

or secure areas without using traditional physical

keys. Instead, it uses electronic methods such

as key cards, fobs, smartphones, or biometric

data (fingerprints or facial recognition). These

secure access systems offer enhanced security, as

electronic credentials are harder to duplicate and

can be easily managed or revoked. They provide

greater convenience and flexibility, enabling remote

access management and real-time updates.

AC Leigh operates at the forefront of secure access

solutions and keyless entry systems in the UK. With

a deep heritage in this industry, they offer extensive

expertise when it comes to developing bespoke

solutions. They provide design, installation and

maintenance services, supplying all the equipment your

facility needs to set up a complete keyless entry system.

Examples of keyless entry systems

AC Leigh offers a selection of security and access

control systems to fit most applications. They

include automatic doors, automatic gates and

barriers, CCTV, centralised access control

and servicing. Keyless entry systems are an ideal

solution for hospitals, care homes and mental

health facilities.

AC Leigh provides:

: A complete range of SALTO access solutions

: Swing and sliding automatic doors

: Automatic gates and barriers

: CCTV

: Complete consultation, design, installation and

maintenance services

Benefits of using keyless entry systems

: Traffic flow management that doesn’t

compromise the convenience of your visitors

: DDA-compliant access solution that is

wheelchair accessible

: Prevent the spread of germs at healthcare

facilities and improve general hygiene with

sensor-controlled automatic doors

: Digitally control access level across teams with

SALTO software and hardware

: Stricter security using advanced encryption and

authentication that is harder to override

: Reduce the risk of lost or duplicated keys

: Integration with other security and building

management systems including CCTVs and

alarms

SALTO

SALTO is the pioneering force behind the

replacement of mechanical keys to more secure,

electronic and digital solutions. They are in the top

three leading manufacturers of electronic locks

worldwide. SALTO access control solutions are

designed to be adaptable to the continuously

changing security needs, and to be reliable solutions

that are easy to install, use and maintain.

Case Study: SALTO installation at Chatterton

House NHS Mental Health Facility

Chatterton House in Kings Lynn opened Samphire

Ward, the new 16-bedroom mental health facility,

to offer acute care to their patients. The build

comprised of the refurbishment of two redundant

wards linked to create one modern compliant facility

at a cost of £4m which is operated by North and

West Norfolk Care Group, part of Norfolk and

Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT).

The trust required a cost-saving solution that

didn’t require all the doors to be wired. SALTO

Access Control was chosen for fitting to new and

refurbishment projects, with a view to retrofit the

new solution across all the existing sites on a

rolling upgrade basis.

In the case of Chatterton House, online wall

readers were installed on main entry points,

alongside bedroom doors and in ‘airlocks’ to

control access from one area to another, as well as

into and around the building.

Bedroom doors are all fail secure with mechanical

key override and are also anti-barricade following

health and safety standards. The facility has the

bespoke ability to operate a standard 8 male,

8 female bedroom configurations. However, the

trust wanted the flexibility to extend either male

or female bedrooms to 10 bedrooms. This was

achieved by two swing corridor doors. Usually, swing

doors are held open with electro-magnetic locks…

Read the full case study:

www.acleigh.co.uk/project/chattertonhouse

AC Leigh

Based in Norwich since 1959, AC Leigh is one

of the UK’s leading Architectural Ironmongers

and provider of Secure Access Solutions.

Nowadays, AC Leigh has expanded and opened

two further branches in Colchester and Ipswich,

with the security and access control solutions

department being based out of the head office

in Norwich. Their engineers are ADSA-trained.

If you’d like to learn more about keyless access

solutions, SALTO or would like to enquire about

implementing a keyless system at your facility

call AC Leigh Security at: 01603 216501 or

request a callback from the AC Leigh Security

Team by visiting: www.acleigh.co.uk/requesta-call-back-from-our-security-team

20


Raising awareness

and improving

standards

E

vacuation from an upper or lower floor level

of a commercial building in the event of an

emergency or when lifts cannot be used is

something most people take for granted, simply

follow the fire exit signs and walk up or down the

stairs.

For mobility impaired persons it is not so simple.

In a Care Home, mobility impaired residents and

visitors may be dependent on staff assistance to

get them to a place of safety but are suitable and

sufficient provisions really in place.

FIRE, SAFETY & EVACUATION Matters

Darren Franks has over 37 years of experience in

the Fire Safety and Evacuation Sectors and vast

experience working in a variety of Care Homes. He is

currently a member of the Fire Safety Working Group

for NASHICS (National Association for Safety and

Health in Care Services) and his company GLOBEX

assist clients and provide solutions to ensure

they can demonstrate compliance with current

requirements and provide assurance that everyone

can be evacuated safely.

Darren questions if lessons from past tragic events

have really been learnt and advises that all Care

providers and managers take a look at their fire

safety and evacuation arrangements to ensure they

are satisfied that they could evacuate all nonambulant

residents, staff and visitors to a place of

safety 24/7 without depending on the Fire Service.

Recent audits carried out by GLOBEX highlighted

that Care Home Managers were not satisfied that

they could evacuate everyone to a place of safety

for a variety of reasons, even in premises where

regulators had given a rating of good or outstanding!

Not only managers, all staff, residents, resident’s

families, friends and visitors should also ask

questions and be satisfied they or their loved ones

could be evacuated to a place of safety.

Life safety must not be left to chance, the legal

overview is that the person(s) having responsibility

for a building must provide an emergency evacuation

plan that should cover all people likely to be in the

premises, including disabled people, and show how

that plan will be implemented and the plan must not

rely upon the intervention of the Fire and Rescue

service to make it work.

It is essential Care Home

Providers and Managers

understand their roles and

responsibilities, understand their

building fire strategy, emergency

procedures the use of any

equipment provided and are

satisfied provisions are in place

to ensure they could evacuate

everyone from a fire resisting

compartment or the whole

building during day and night

shifts. If they are not satisfied

these requirements can be met

improvements must be made

immediately.

Evacuation sheets are common

in the Care sector, generally as

they are one of the cheapest

options, but are they fit for purpose. Many purchase

them having seen videos of them used in a perfect

scenarios where as in practice we have many

examples where we were told evacuation sheets are

under every mattress but upon inspection there were

not, where they were present and demonstrated

the mattress from the bed would not fit through the

bedroom door or could not be manoeuvred down

narrow staircases with half landings.

If this is the case other solutions should be put

in place such as evacuation mats, sledges and

evacuation chairs, in some cases a mixture of two

products may be required to

support horizontal and vertical

evacuation.

Even if a Regulator or Enforcing

Authority have visited, now is

time for change, Care Home

providers and Home Managers

must be satisfied that they:

1) Understand their building

specific fire strategy.

2) Have current building specific

fire risk assessment produced

by an experienced competent

person, emergency

procedures, a process in

place for producing Personal

Emergency Evacuation Plans

(PEEPs – For residents and

staff) and Generic Emergency

Evacuation Plans (GEEPs – For visitors)

3) Are satisfied a suitable and sufficient number of

tried and tested evacuation aids are provided in

the building

4) Have a suitable number of trained staff are

present 24/7 to implement emergency procedures

5) They could evacuate all users of their building

24/7 without depending on the Fire Service

It is important to remember, even when an external

fire risk assessor is appointed this does not absolve

the Care Home provider and manager of ownership

and responsibility.

Darren strongly believes that it is often assumed

provisions are in place when they are not and much

more must be done to assist employers and service

providers. Evacuation of mobility impaired persons

cannot be left to chance and the requirements lost within

Fire Safety, Health and Safety and Equality requirements.

GLOBEX provide a nationwide confidential

support service to ensure compliance, for

further information or assistance please feel

free to contact Darren direct at:

darren@globexevacuation.com and see:

www.globex-evacuation.com or for further

information.


NURSING & CARE Matters

New care partnership

launches to raise care

standards in North London

new home care provider

A has launched in Islington

with a simple mission: to

bring high-quality care

to families across North

London – while also giving

proper recognition to the

people who deliver it.

Visiting Angels North

London is led by Max

Read, who spent nearly

a decade working with

global consumer brands, and

Sharlean Campbell, who has more

than 15 years’ experience in the care

sector and previously achieved an

‘Outstanding’ rating from the Care

Quality Commission.

Max and Sharlean come from very

different backgrounds, but share the

same goal: to improve the way care is

delivered in the community.

They are joined by Shade Quadri,

a former NHS social prescriber,

whose experience gives the team

a strong understanding of the

challenges families face and how best

to navigate the healthcare system.

Visiting Angels takes a ‘carer-centric’

approach, aiming to make carers feel

valued through fair pay, proper training

and opportunities to progress their

careers. The belief is simple: if carers

are supported, clients will receive

better care.

The launch comes at a time when

hospitals across London are under

pressure, with beds in short supply.

The team believes high-quality home

care can help relieve some of this

strain, while allowing people to live

well in their own homes.

For more information or to see

how Visiting Angels could help

care for your loved ones, please

visit: www.visiting-angels.

co.uk/northlondon or call Max,

Sharlean, Shade and the team

on: 02080 594187.

NAO report on residential

care costs for children –

LGA response

esponding to a report by the

RNational Audit Office, which

found residential care costs

for looked-after children have

almost doubled in five years, Cllr

Amanda Hopgood, Chair of the

Local Government Association’s

Children, Young People and

Families Committee, said, “Our

priority is ensuring that children

get the very best care and support.

However, with more children

needing help with increasingly

complex and challenging needs,

a lack of appropriate homes and

the challenges with commissioning

those placements are leading to an

escalation in costs.”

“The astronomical cost

of care placements also

means there is less money

available for councils to

spend on the earlier help

children so desperately

need. We would also like

to see greater financial

oversight of the largest

providers, with some

making huge profits when

money should be invested

in supporting children.”

“In the Autumn Budget, the

Government should ensure all

councils receive sufficient funding

to invest long-term into family help,

child protection, and child in care

and care leaver services.”

“It should also develop a crossgovernment

strategy for children,

young people and families to

ensure all partners are working

towards a shared ambition.”

Please see:

https://www.local.gov.uk

22


Zip Code supports

GP practices by

taking the pressure

out of clinical coding

and document

management. In a

healthcare system

where time is scarce

and accuracy is

critical, Zip Code

ensures that

patient records are

coded correctly,

consistently, and

in line with national

standards.

Preview

Inside Best Practice London 2026

Best Practice London will take place 25th-26th February 2026 at Olympia London

est Practice London is the leading event

for general practice and primary care in

Bthe south of England, bringing together the

entire primary care community for two days of

focused learning, innovation, and professional

development.

This flagship event – the UK’s most anticipated

primary care conference – is evolving in 2026 with a

refreshed programme designed to meet the everyday

needs of GPs, nurses, practice and PCN managers,

pharmacists, and healthcare leaders. Drawing on

contributions from clinical innovators, operational

experts, and system leaders, the conference

promises to deliver evidence-based updates, handson

tools, and strategic thinking to support teams

confronting the challenges of modern practice.

With new theatres and fresh focus areas, the

2026 edition will feature exciting new theatres

in the programme. These include the General

Practice Management Theatre, a brand-new space

dedicated to leadership, workforce wellbeing,

teamwork, and the business of running a practice –

from governance to day-to-day operations.

The PCN Transformation Theatre builds on

last year’s popular sessions, diving deeper

into neighbourhood-level care, integration with

Integrated Care Boards, and collaborative models

that bridge primary and community services.

The GP Clinical Theatre will once again deliver

practical, clinic-ready guidance across both

common and complex conditions. From

cardiovascular care and diabetes to dermatology

and multimorbidity, with sessions designed to

What Zip Code does

support confident decision-making and immediate

application in everyday general practice.

Alongside this, the popular Workshop & Skills

Sessions return with a highly interactive format.

These toolkit-style sessions provide delegates

with replicable templates,

protocols and checklists, offering

practical solutions to improve

access, enhance patient safety

and streamline workflow efficiency

within busy practices.

For those involved in the

operational and strategic running

of practices, the Business Services

Hub offers targeted content for

practice managers and partners. Discussions will

explore key issues including finance and estates,

procurement, digital transformation, workforce

planning and building organisational resilience in an

increasingly challenging environment.

Completing the programme, the Menopause &

Reproductive Health Theatres will feature focused,

evidence-based sessions on menopause care and

culturally sensitive reproductive health. Through

practical case discussions and confidence-building HRT

guidance, these theatres aim to support clinicians in

delivering informed, compassionate and up-to-date care.

Across all theatres, the conference programme

is shaped by themes that reflect both the current

realities and the future direction of primary care. A

strong emphasis is placed on community-centred

care, with sessions exploring joined-up pathways

that improve continuity, strengthen prevention and

Working seamlessly

with systems such

as EMIS Web and

SystemOne, Zip

Code’s trained clinical coders

review incoming correspondence,

extract key clinical information, and

code it accurately into the patient

record. This improves data quality,

supports safer clinical decisionmaking,

and enables more reliable

reporting and compliance.

What sets Zip Code apart is strong

clinical leadership. The service is

GP-led, with quality and governance

overseen by experienced general

promote more equitable access

for patients.

The programme also focuses

on building clinical confidence

for everyday practice, delivering practical

updates that clinicians can apply immediately in

consultations and care planning. Alongside this,

there is a dedicated focus on leadership and people

development, addressing challenges such as

workforce retention, wellbeing and the creation of

positive, resilient team cultures.

Altogether, the exhibitors at Best Practice London

2026 reflect the evolving needs of general practice

– blending innovation with practicality, and clinical

advances with business and system support. For

anyone working in primary care, the exhibition offers

a valuable opportunity to explore what’s shaping the

profession today and what lies ahead.

For more information, please see below:

https://www.bestpracticelondon.co.uk

practitioners who understand the

realities of frontline care. This is

further strengthened by support

from clinical pharmacists who are

able to add, amend, and remove

medications as part of the workflow.

This ensures prescriptions and

medication changes are handled

promptly and safely, without delays

to patient treatment.

By managing the administrative

and clinical processing behind the

scenes, Zip Code frees up GPs and

practice teams to focus on patient

care. The result is clearer records,

reduced backlogs, and a smoother,

more efficient practice – delivered

by a service that truly understands

primary care.

If you’d like to learn more,

email us at: info@zipcode.org.

uk. Visit our website here:

https://zipcode.org.uk or

call us on: 0161 2580 667.

24


DEMENTIA & CARE Matters

Unlock the stories: Why do care homes

need Dementia Memory Boxes

ementia memory boxes have a vital role to

play in a dementia care setting as part of a

Dperson-centred strategy.

In promoting the influence of the environment,

Memory Boxes contribute to several key areas we

want to address, including way-finding, reminiscence

and personal interactions. They also contribute to an

altogether more attractive and homely environment

for people living with dementia.

The power of personal stories in care

Providing a high level of person-centred care is no

easy task, and themed Memory Boxes can be very

helpful in this respect. It takes time to get to know a

new resident, their needs, preferences and personality.

Using a thoughtfully filled Memory Box for dementia

care provides a visual reference of the individual’s

life story that is always available – more practical and

person-centred than referring to a care plan!

The personal contents of a Memory Box present

a selection of items which are meaningful and

memorable for a resident. This provides them with

valuable support for confident wayfinding, informing

the individual they’re in their own space, rather than

with carers.

Thinking inside the box – another way to create

POI’s even when space and budget are limited

What is a Dementia Memory Box?

Personal Memory Boxes appear in a variety of guises

and sizes. The primary consideration is safety, as

it is with any product in this environment. So the

Memory Box needs to be secure, keep its contents

safe, be robust, and not have any sharp corners or

edges that can cause damage on impact. Invariably,

Memory Boxes are more box than contents, making

the contents less visible and diminishing the general

effectiveness.

The standard Memory Box illustrated is a good

example of how ingenuity in design can fulfil all

the safety criteria and improve the value of the

Memory Box by providing maximum capacity for

more contents and ensuring everything is visible

and well-lit from all angles. The ‘bonus’ benefit is

the visual effect of a corridor filled with interesting

artefacts, as opposed to a corridor with a line of

impersonal, identical wooden boxes. It’s always

good to differentiate.

Creating connections with families, staff & residents

If there aren’t already enough reasons to make you

consider dementia Memory Boxes for your home,

there are more to come.

It’s almost as important to know and understand

friends and family’s relationship with their LO, and

curating the Memory Box’s contents provides

an opportunity to work with them to do this. The

contents may feature items and photos of friends

and family, and help maintain the connections.

Furthermore, when a resident is struggling to

recognise a visitor or loved one, the Memory Box

provides an easy-access opportunity to say, ‘Hey

Dad, do you remember this? It’s you and me when

we were at….’

Design matters: Placement, materials & safety

As already mentioned, there are a number of design

criteria the Memory Box needs to fulfil to be suitable

for use in an Alzheimer’s or dementia care setting.

The priorities are all safety-related, of course, so the

materials should carry the appropriate fire ratings for

a start. The cover should be a clear, ‘unbreakable’

material having a positive fixing to secure the cover

and prevent unwanted access to the contents.

Wall-fixing must be secure, and the fascia suitable

for effective cleaning with non-abrasive cleaners.

Location is key, of

course, so Memory

Boxes are best located

adjacent to (not on)

the bedroom door and

positioned low enough

for everyone to be able

to see the contents

and high enough as

not to present a hazard

when passing by or to wheelchair users.

The colour of the Memory Box will ideally be

something neutral, as the display is all about the

contents, not the box.

Supporting memory & wellbeing

The key value of the Memory Box is its contribution

to general wellbeing and the support of an

individual’s personhood, providing reminiscence

cues and dementia visual aids, reinforcing

confidence in wayfinding and sharing a valuable

snapshot of life history to support more meaningful

interactions with family members.

Go beyond the box by embedding stories into

care design

In the care home setting, the Memory Box can

serve more than one purpose. In our work on the

environment, we often pre-populate a Memory Box

with themed contents relating to our Destination

Point wall displays.

Our displays are always content-rich with eraspecific

images on a variety of relevant themes.

These can be enhanced with a Memory Box filled

with related artefacts/keepsakes and located

alongside the wall-art or embedded in the display for

a more immersive and meaningful display reinforced

with reminiscence therapy.

Get in touch with The Care Home Designer

and start your Memory Box strategy today:

0113 268 5018

07974 645296

sales@tchd.co.uk

www.thecarehomedesigner.com

26


RECOMMENDED SUPPLIER Directory

Gold & Wassall are the UK’s No.1

manufacturer of hinges. We provide

a fully comprehensive manufacturing

service, which enables us to offer any

hinge, for any application.

All our hinges are manufactured at our

premises in Tamworth, UK.

Its revolutionary design makes the

eFOLDi Lite one of the lightest, most

compact folding travel-scooters

available – weighing just 15kg. It folds

and unfolds in just a few seconds and

is easy to store and transport.

No complex assembly is required –

just unfold and go.

We are a team of highly trained Occupational

Therapists and Rehabilitation Engineers

based in South Wales with over 35 years’

experience of providing wheelchairs

and seating in NHS, Private and Charitable

sectors. We are also highly skilled at

providing clinical education and training to

Therapists, Suppliers, Case Managers and

Wheelchair users.

Founded in the heart of Cardiff, D J Hill

Engineering Services Ltd has cemented its

position as a preeminent engineering company

with a dedication to excellence in providing

high-quality bespoke metal products. With

decades of industry experience under our belt,

we have evolved into a trusted supplier that

caters to the distinctive needs of diverse sectors

across South Wales and the South West area.

When it comes to your prosthesis, you need

someone you can trust. Chris Parsons is

the founder of Design Prosthetics Ltd, an

independent, private prosthetic clinic based

in Lewes, East Sussex. With over 40 years

of experience in prosthetics and orthotics,

Chris has dedicated his career to improving

the lives of individuals with limb differences.

EDGE Services is one of the leading providers

of people handling training in the UK today.

EDGE will train you to deliver moving and

handling, dementia care and challenging

behaviour courses to your colleagues,

providing you with the resources, techniques

and skills to make a real difference to

the health and safety of both your

colleagues and your clients.

We’re a family-run business with more than

40 years of experience in the mobility aids

industry, so you can count on us to have the

knowledge and understanding of exactly what

our customers want and need. That’s why we

offer such a comprehensive range of products

that are designed to improve your quality of

life and to help you stay mobile, active,

and independent for as long as possible.

Thermidas’ mission is to lower the

cost of healthcare with infrared (IR)

thermal imaging. Thermidas has

two core focus areas; prevention of

Pressure Injuries in hospitals and

care homes and the prevention of

diabetic foot ulcers.

Thor Assistive Technologies Ltd are Distributors of

Neuro Rehabilitation Robotic and related devices.

We believe in ‘Robotic Integrated Rehabilitation’

to provide rehabilitation that compliments

Physiotherapy and improves results by increasing

repetitions and exercise dose. UK based, providing

products from around the world, the team provide

assessment, demonstration, installation, training

and ongoing support to our partner clinics

Apex Wiring Solutions is transforming electrical

systems in healthcare projects.

Our leading-edge pre-wired technology ensures faster

installations, reduced waste, and enhanced safety.

Trusted by healthcare leaders across the globe, we’re

setting a new standard in efficiency and innovation.

Scan the QR code to discover how we’re powering

the future of healthcare.


Healthcare Matters Issue 842

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?