http://www.communitycare.co.uken-gbFri, 10 Feb 2012 17:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/10/117977/lga-steps-in-to-tackle-councils-adult-safeguarding-failings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/10/117977/lga-steps-in-to-tackle-councils-adult-safeguarding-failings.htmlThe Local Government Association has stepped in to address adult safeguarding failings at Wirral Council by setting up a board to drive improvement. Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/10/117974/how-telecare-can-defuse-chronic-conditions-timebomb.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/10/117974/how-telecare-can-defuse-chronic-conditions-timebomb.htmlWalsall is making telecare a default component of care packages to boost independence for people with chronic conditions and manage the rising costs of supporting this group, says council adult care director Paul Davies. Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117965/supreme-court-to-rule-on-councils-right-to-limit-care-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117965/supreme-court-to-rule-on-councils-right-to-limit-care-funding.htmlThe Supreme Court is to rule on councils' right to take resources into account in determining the levels of care they will fund for users, in a case that could have significant implications for social care funding. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117964/mps-unify-health-and-social-care-to-tackle-funding-shortfall.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117964/mps-unify-health-and-social-care-to-tackle-funding-shortfall.htmlAdult care and health should be brought under a single commissioner in each area to improve support for older people and help solve social care's funding crisis, the health select committee, chaired by Stephen Dorrell (pictured), said today.Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/06/117962/adult-social-workers-pessimistic-but-proud-finds-college.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/06/117962/adult-social-workers-pessimistic-but-proud-finds-college.htmlAdult social workers feel pessimistic about the future of their practice because of bureaucracy and care management, but still believe they make a difference, The College of Social Work has found. (Photo: Rex Features) Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117955/burstow-social-work-to-be-at-heart-of-care-white-paper.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117955/burstow-social-work-to-be-at-heart-of-care-white-paper.htmlSocial work will be at the heart of the government's forthcoming adult care White Paper, with the profession's role expected to switch from rationing care to community development, Paul Burstow has said. Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/31/117952/social-workers-need-better-mental-capacity-act-training.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/31/117952/social-workers-need-better-mental-capacity-act-training.htmlSocial workers need more effective training and guidance in applying the Mental Capacity Act 2005 to take decisions on behalf of service users and support them to make decisions for themselves. Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117948/social-care-funding-gap-has-widened-by-500m-says-age-uk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117948/social-care-funding-gap-has-widened-by-500m-says-age-uk.htmlThe gap between social care funding and need has grown by £500m for older people in England in 2011-12, compounding a situation in which 800,000 pensioners were already going without services. (Image: Rex Features). Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117942/how-one-council-boosted-social-works-quality-and-status.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117942/how-one-council-boosted-social-works-quality-and-status.htmlSocial work performance management has become associated with bureaucracy, a negligible impact on quality and poor morale. However, one council says that it has designed and implemented a system that has delivered precisely the opposite. Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117944/social-workers-urged-to-support-distressed-cancer-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117944/social-workers-urged-to-support-distressed-cancer-carers.htmlSocial care professionals have been urged to increase assessment levels for carers of cancer patients after a survey found half were receiving no support and a similar proportion were experiencing mental distress. Fri, 27 Jan 2012 07:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/25/117941/council-staff-reluctant-to-signpost-clients-to-equity-release.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/25/117941/council-staff-reluctant-to-signpost-clients-to-equity-release.htmlCouncil staff have proved reluctant to signpost older clients to equity release schemes to fund low-level support at home, research has found. (Image: Rex Features) Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117940/nhs-must-spend-more-on-adult-social-care-say-mps.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117940/nhs-must-spend-more-on-adult-social-care-say-mps.htmlThe NHS should spend more on adult social care to improve the quality and cost-effectiveness of support for people with long-term conditions, MPs said today. Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117931/the-deprivation-of-liberty-safeguards-are-not-dead.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117931/the-deprivation-of-liberty-safeguards-are-not-dead.htmlA recent Court of Appeal judgement was described as the death of the deprivation of liberty safeguards. However, best interests assessor Lorraine Currie disagrees, and says Lord Justice Munby's ruling provides useful tools for practitioners.Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117932/basw-workloads-undermining-ethical-social-work-practice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117932/basw-workloads-undermining-ethical-social-work-practice.htmlUnmanageable caseloads are making it impossible for social workers to practice ethically, the British Association of Social Workers warned today as it issued a revised version of its code of ethics. (Image: Rex Features). Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/13/117923/900-adult-care-staff-join-nhs-in-biggest-integration-deal-yet.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/13/117923/900-adult-care-staff-join-nhs-in-biggest-integration-deal-yet.htmlNine hundred adult social care staff, including social workers, will be transferred to the NHS to create the biggest integrated health and social care provider in the UK, it was confirmed today. (Image: Rex Features). Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/12/117922/should-you-join-the-college-of-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/12/117922/should-you-join-the-college-of-social-work.htmlLast week’s launch of The College of Social Work has posed each of England’s approximately 85,000 social workers with a simple question: to join or not to join? Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/05/117907/social-workers-must-join-renewed-effort-to-integrate-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/05/117907/social-workers-must-join-renewed-effort-to-integrate-care.htmlSocial care professionals should be at the heart of multi-disciplinary teams in every area to manage the care of people with long-term conditions and make a reality of integrated care, the government has been told. Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/05/117905/legalise-assisted-suicide-for-terminally-ill-says-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/05/117905/legalise-assisted-suicide-for-terminally-ill-says-inquiry.htmlAssisted dying should be legalised for terminally ill people so long as they are not put under pressure to end their lives and palliative care is much improved, a major inquiry has concluded (Image: Alamy). Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/04/117903/carers-disproportionately-hit-by-government-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/04/117903/carers-disproportionately-hit-by-government-cuts.htmlCarers will be disproportionately hit by government benefit cuts over the coming years, research published today shows. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/03/117900/munro-leads-new-year-roll-of-honour-in-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/03/117900/munro-leads-new-year-roll-of-honour-in-social-care.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro has been awarded a CBE in the New Year Honours List following her review into child protection, which last year called for sweeping reforms to assessments and performance management. Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/03/117902/social-care-staff-urged-to-blow-the-whistle-on-abuse.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/03/117902/social-care-staff-urged-to-blow-the-whistle-on-abuse.htmlSocial care staff and employers are being urged to blow the whistle on abuse and poor practice through a helpline formerly open to NHS staff only. Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/23/117891/community-cares-predictions-for-social-care-in-2012.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/23/117891/community-cares-predictions-for-social-care-in-2012.htmlCare funding deadlock, industrial strife and a change of leadership at a key agency. We gaze into our crystal ball to predict what 2012 might hold for social care (Pic: Everett Collection/Rex Features )Fri, 23 Dec 2011 15:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/21/117890/top-five-victories-against-social-care-cuts-of-2011.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/21/117890/top-five-victories-against-social-care-cuts-of-2011.htmlWhile cuts have dominated social care in 2011 some proposed funding reductions and organisational closures have been successfully reversed. Here are our top five victories against the cuts. Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/20/117893/christmas-doesnt-have-to-be-the-loneliest-time-of-the-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/20/117893/christmas-doesnt-have-to-be-the-loneliest-time-of-the-year.htmlAt a time when most of us are frantically looking for last-minute presents or trying to find a turkey, it can be easy to forget there are people for whom Christmas can be a very lonely, upsetting time. Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117889/carers-uk-names-age-uk-director-as-new-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117889/carers-uk-names-age-uk-director-as-new-chief.htmlCarers UK has named Heléna Herklots as its new chief executive. Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117887/hospital-dementia-care-blighted-by-inadequate-staff-training.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117887/hospital-dementia-care-blighted-by-inadequate-staff-training.htmlInadequate staff training and an impersonal approach to care is blighting the experiences of dementia patients in hospitals, a major national study has concluded. Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117885/key-long-term-conditions-policy-branded-a-failure-by-nao.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117885/key-long-term-conditions-policy-branded-a-failure-by-nao.htmlOutcomes for people with long-term neurological conditions have stalled or deteriorated, six years on from a key policy to improve support for the group and despite significantly increased funding for care. Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117883/book-review-working-with-adults-at-risk-of-harm.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117883/book-review-working-with-adults-at-risk-of-harm.htmlThis is an interesting book that considers the common characteristics between different states of vulnerability, which may occur within a range of contexts, particularly health, social and community care, writes Bridget Penhale.Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117881/domestic-violence-definition-to-include-victims-aged-under-18.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117881/domestic-violence-definition-to-include-victims-aged-under-18.htmlCampaigners have hailed government proposals to widen the definition of domestic violence to include victims aged under 18 and those who have experienced ongoing controlling behaviour from partners. Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117839/financial-abuse-of-dementia-sufferers-is-rife-warns-charity.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117839/financial-abuse-of-dementia-sufferers-is-rife-warns-charity.htmlSocial care professionals have been urged to look out for indicators of financial abuse among people with dementia after Alzheimer's Society warned that the problem was rife among the client group. (Image: REX features) Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/13/117879/adult-social-care-and-health-to-be-integrated-in-scotland.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/13/117879/adult-social-care-and-health-to-be-integrated-in-scotland.htmlAdult social care and health will be integrated in Scotland to help tackle delayed discharged from hospital and cost-shunting between councils and the NHS, under plans outlined yesterday by the country's government (Image: REX features). Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/13/117877/book-review-reminiscence-and-life-story-work-a-practice-guide.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/13/117877/book-review-reminiscence-and-life-story-work-a-practice-guide.htmlThis book would prove to be an invaluable tool to anyone involved in reminiscence work, from paid carers or family members to trained professionals, writes Ian Taylor. Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/12/117874/dh-orders-probe-into-cqc-following-board-members-criticisms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/12/117874/dh-orders-probe-into-cqc-following-board-members-criticisms.htmlThe Department of Health has ordered a probe into the Care Quality Commission following significant criticisms of its leadership from board member Kay Sheldon. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/12/117873/burstow-users-to-shape-new-online-care-ratings-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/12/117873/burstow-users-to-shape-new-online-care-ratings-system.htmlUsers and carers' opinions on care services will be published alongside ratings of their quality on an online "good care guide" designed to replace the star ratings scrapped last year, Paul Burstow has said. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117870/1.5bn-cut-for-councils-with-social-care-responsibilities.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117870/1.5bn-cut-for-councils-with-social-care-responsibilities.htmlCouncils responsible for social care in England will have £1.5bn taken out of their budgets next year, the government has said. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117871/staff-cuts-and-overcrowding-blight-care-for-detained-patients.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117871/staff-cuts-and-overcrowding-blight-care-for-detained-patients.htmlStaff cuts and overcrowded wards are blighting the care of detained mental health patients, the Care Quality Commission has warned. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117864/council-job-cuts-near-150000-for-the-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117864/council-job-cuts-near-150000-for-the-year.htmlCouncils across England have shed 145,000 jobs over the past year and the number is set to rise, according to a report published today by the Audit Commission. Unison head of local government Heather Wakefield (pictured), said: "Councils have already made far more job cuts than they said would be necessary. This report shows that the worst is yet to come.” Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117863/ageing-workforce-poses-problems-for-palliative-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117863/ageing-workforce-poses-problems-for-palliative-social-work.htmlPalliative care social work faces recruitment problems in England after a survey revealed almost half of specialist practitioners were aged over 50. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117859/hsbc-faces-40m-bill-for-mis-selling-care-products-to-elderly.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117859/hsbc-faces-40m-bill-for-mis-selling-care-products-to-elderly.htmlHSBC faces a £40m bill for mis-selling investment products to fund long-term care to elderly customers and their families. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117858/council-prevented-social-worker-from-visiting-dying-mother.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117858/council-prevented-social-worker-from-visiting-dying-mother.htmlA children's social care worker who was unlawfully prevented from seeing her mother in a care home before she died has been awarded £5,000 after Leeds Council was found guilty of maladministration. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117852/mps-warn-ministers-of-new-care-home-crisis-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117852/mps-warn-ministers-of-new-care-home-crisis-risk.htmlThe Department of Health must "get to grips with the very real risks to the social care market" to avoid another Southern Cross-style failure, an influential group of MPs warned today. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117856/government-wants-mass-roll-out-of-telecare-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117856/government-wants-mass-roll-out-of-telecare-services.htmlThe government is bidding to roll out telecare or telehealth devices to three million people with long-term conditions after a large-scale evaluation found they could significantly cut death rates and costs for the NHS. Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117854/practice-issues-in-adult-safeguarding-at-a-time-of-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117854/practice-issues-in-adult-safeguarding-at-a-time-of-cuts.htmlAdult safeguarding consultant Patrick Worthington (pictured) examines the key practice issues facing social care professionals in keeping adults at risk safe at a time of austerity and changeMon, 05 Dec 2011 14:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117853/second-council-ordered-to-review-care-fees-for-providers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117853/second-council-ordered-to-review-care-fees-for-providers.htmlCouncils have been warned that they face having care cuts reversed in the courts after a second authority was ordered to review a decision to freeze fees.Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/02/117847/almost-50-of-carers-made-ill-by-money-worries.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/02/117847/almost-50-of-carers-made-ill-by-money-worries.htmlA survey of more than 4,000 carers by Carers UK for Carers Rights Day today has found that almost 47% were being made ill by money worries. Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/02/117848/wider-remit-risks-diverting-cqc-from-regulating-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/02/117848/wider-remit-risks-diverting-cqc-from-regulating-care.htmlThe Care Quality Commission risks being distracted from its core role of regulating health and adult social care services by government plans to extend its responsibilities, the National Audit Office warned today. Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/01/117846/disabled-people-in-care-homes-to-retain-dla-benefit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/01/117846/disabled-people-in-care-homes-to-retain-dla-benefit.htmlDisabled people living in residential care will continue to receive the mobility component of the disability living allowance and personal independence payment, minister for disabled people Maria Miller announced today. Thu, 01 Dec 2011 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117842/government-grants-cqc-request-for-cash-to-fund-inspections.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117842/government-grants-cqc-request-for-cash-to-fund-inspections.htmlThe Department of Health has granted the Care Quality Commission's request for greater funding to finance annual inspections of adult care services and others it regulates. Wed, 30 Nov 2011 17:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117837/adult-care-was-being-trimmed-before-coalition-cuts-started.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117837/adult-care-was-being-trimmed-before-coalition-cuts-started.htmlSocial care services were being trimmed in England even before the coalition's major programme of cuts kicked in this year, figures published today indicate. Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117836/social-care-faces-deeper-cuts-on-back-of-osborne-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117836/social-care-faces-deeper-cuts-on-back-of-osborne-plan.htmlSocial care will face deeper cuts lasting until 2017 on the back of chancellor George Osborne's Autumn Statement issued yesterday. Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117831/ministers-defend-college-of-social-works-tie-up-with-unison.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117831/ministers-defend-college-of-social-works-tie-up-with-unison.htmlGovernment ministers have defended the College of Social Work’s tie-up with Unison following criticism from the education select committee earlier this month. Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117832/osborne-extends-public-sector-pay-squeeze-until-2015.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117832/osborne-extends-public-sector-pay-squeeze-until-2015.htmlPublic sector pay will be squeezed until 2015 and cuts to services will continue until 2017, chancellor George Osborne announced today in his Autumn Statement (Image: Steve Back). Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117830/cqc-board-member-calls-for-chief-cynthia-bower-to-resign.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117830/cqc-board-member-calls-for-chief-cynthia-bower-to-resign.htmlA Care Quality Commission board member has called for the resignation of chief executive Cynthia Bower (pictured) over a lack of leadership capability at the regulator. Tue, 29 Nov 2011 10:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117824/spend-on-carers-down-2.4m.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117824/spend-on-carers-down-2.4m.htmlPrimary care trust spending on carers has fallen by £2.4m over the past year despite additional government investment, an investigation by two carers organisations has found.Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117818/burstow-toughens-requirements-on-nhs-to-fund-carers-breaks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117818/burstow-toughens-requirements-on-nhs-to-fund-carers-breaks.htmlThe government has toughened requirements on the NHS to fund carers' services after admitting funding allocated for the purpose was not being spent as desired.Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117813/extra-care-housing-better-than-care-homes-finds-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117813/extra-care-housing-better-than-care-homes-finds-report.htmlExtra care housing delivers better outcomes at less cost than residential care for people with the same needs, an independent report is expected to conclude next month. Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117820/skills-for-care-develops-careers-e-tool.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117820/skills-for-care-develops-careers-e-tool.htmlSkills for Care has created an interactive career pathways e-tool for people considering starting in social care and those already working in the sector who are keen to see what their career development opportunities might be.Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117797/human-rights-act-must-be-extended-to-private-home-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117797/human-rights-act-must-be-extended-to-private-home-care.htmlHuman rights protections should be extended to publicly-funded users of private home care services, the Equality and Human Rights Commission has urged after finding widespread abuses in the sector. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117723/helping-care-home-managers-navigate-the-dols.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117723/helping-care-home-managers-navigate-the-dols.htmlWhat must care home managers bear in mind when residents might be deprived of their liberty? Manager Kathryn McGuirk discusses her experience of the deprivation of liberty safeguards.Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117804/cqc-to-probe-standards-of-home-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117804/cqc-to-probe-standards-of-home-care.htmlStandards of home care in England will be investigated by the Care Quality Commission to shine a light on services that operate "behind closed doors", says chief executive Cynthia Bower (pictured). Tue, 22 Nov 2011 10:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/21/117798/care-home-arts-activities-at-risk-from-council-cuts-warns-provider-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/21/117798/care-home-arts-activities-at-risk-from-council-cuts-warns-provider-chief.html Arts activities are at risk of being cut back as local authorities cut care home funding, the National Care Forum chief executive has warned. Despite...Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117790/nlgn-government-must-rethink-personal-budgets-target.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117790/nlgn-government-must-rethink-personal-budgets-target.htmlThe government must relax its 2013 target for 100% take-up of personal budgets in adult social care, according to the New Local Government Network.Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117786/research-multiple-exclusion-homelessness.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117786/research-multiple-exclusion-homelessness.htmlMichelle Cornes and Jill Manthorpe summarise the findings of the Multiple Exclusion Homelessness Research Programme outlining the key practice implications for social workers Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117782/how-retro-styling-homes-can-help-elderly-people-with-dementia-feel-more-comfortable.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117782/how-retro-styling-homes-can-help-elderly-people-with-dementia-feel-more-comfortable.htmlRetro-decorating can help people with dementia to stay at home for longer by placing familiar items from their past in their home to reduce anxiety and to trigger memories. Jeremy Dunning reports Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117776/boost-council-commissioning-transparency-says-adass-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117776/boost-council-commissioning-transparency-says-adass-chief.htmlLocal authority commissioning should be more transparent and outcomes more minutely measured to help increase the number of providers in the social care market, said Peter Hay, president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services.Thu, 17 Nov 2011 10:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117757/people-with-dementia-being-denied-direct-payments.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117757/people-with-dementia-being-denied-direct-payments.htmlPeople with dementia are not reaping the benefits of personal budgets because of a lack of information and knowledge among social care professionals, and tightening eligibility criteria, an Alzheimer's Society report warns today (Thursday). Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117773/skills-for-care-launches-guide-for-social-care-employers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117773/skills-for-care-launches-guide-for-social-care-employers.htmlSkills for Care has launched a practical guide to the Principles of Workforce Redesign to help adult social care employers manage the changes the sector is facing. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117771/ukhca-warns-councils-over-care-funding-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117771/ukhca-warns-councils-over-care-funding-cuts.htmlCare agencies are increasingly willing to use the courts to address home care funding issues, the United Kingdom Homecare Association has warned councils. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117743/tracy-ryan-the-countrys-first-dignity-co-ordinator.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117743/tracy-ryan-the-countrys-first-dignity-co-ordinator.htmlThe UK's first dignity in care co-ordinator tells Jeremy Dunning how her role has benefited service users and practitioners alike Wed, 16 Nov 2011 10:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/11/117753/care-homes-jubilant-as-council-agrees-to-review-fees.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/11/117753/care-homes-jubilant-as-council-agrees-to-review-fees.htmlCare home leaders are celebrating after a council ordered a review of its fees for providers under threat of a judicial review challenge.Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117747/social-works-most-influential-thinkers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117747/social-works-most-influential-thinkers.htmlWho are the people whose ideas have done the most to shape the nature of social work? Community Care profiles some of the profession's most influential brain boxes Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117741/judge-orders-council-to-rethink-care-provider-fee-freeze.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117741/judge-orders-council-to-rethink-care-provider-fee-freeze.htmlA judge has ordered a council to rethink its decision to freeze fees to residential care providers. Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117739/burstow-bid-to-use-dols-to-curb-antipsychotics-use-draconian.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117739/burstow-bid-to-use-dols-to-curb-antipsychotics-use-draconian.htmlConcerns have been raised over "draconian" proposals from care services minister Paul Burstow (pictured) to use the deprivation of liberty safeguards to crack down on inappropriate prescriptions of antipsychotic drugs to sedate people with dementia. Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117736/statutory-watchdog-needed-to-resolve-care-funding-crisis.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117736/statutory-watchdog-needed-to-resolve-care-funding-crisis.htmlSocial care's funding crisis can only be tackled through the creation of a statutory watchdog tasked with holding ministers to account for underfunding.Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/09/117737/councils-boost-reablement-services-with-cash-from-nhs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/09/117737/councils-boost-reablement-services-with-cash-from-nhs.htmlReablement services are being expanded significantly across England on the back of £648m transferred from the NHS to local authorities this year. Wed, 09 Nov 2011 10:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/08/117735/mps-hear-scie-chief-call-basw-unethical-in-college-row.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/08/117735/mps-hear-scie-chief-call-basw-unethical-in-college-row.htmlThe row over the creation of the College of Social Work deepened today as the British Association of Social Workers was accused of "unethical" and "unprincipled" behaviour by Allan Bowman (pictured), the chair of the Social Care Institute for Excellence. Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117732/deprivation-of-liberty-safeguards-guide-for-care-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117732/deprivation-of-liberty-safeguards-guide-for-care-homes.htmlCare homes sometimes find it difficult to identify when they are depriving a resident of their liberty. Here deprivation of liberty safeguards expert John Leighton sets out what they need to look out for.Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117731/social-workers-failed-to-monitor-elderly-man-murdered-by-son.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117731/social-workers-failed-to-monitor-elderly-man-murdered-by-son.htmlSocial workers failed to monitor the circumstances of a direct payments user who was murdered by his son, a serious case review has found. Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117730/provider-to-import-us-style-small-scale-elderly-care-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117730/provider-to-import-us-style-small-scale-elderly-care-homes.htmlOne of the UK's biggest care providers is planning to introduce a US model for replacing "factory-style" care homes for older people with smaller units. US geriatrician Dr Bill Thomas (pictured) visited the UK last week to promote the idea. Mon, 07 Nov 2011 11:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117724/employers-fail-to-refer-abusive-care-workers-to-watchdog.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117724/employers-fail-to-refer-abusive-care-workers-to-watchdog.htmlHealth and social care employers are failing to report cases of staff found to have harmed or abused service users, the Independent Safeguarding Authority has warned, after figures revealed the extent of abuse within services. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117714/community-care-moves-to-an-online-future.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117714/community-care-moves-to-an-online-future.htmlCommunity Care takes the difficult decision to close the print magazine and focus all its energy and resources on supporting social care professionals online. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117713/30000-cases-of-abuse-of-vulnerable-adults-last-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117713/30000-cases-of-abuse-of-vulnerable-adults-last-year.htmlCouncils identifed over 30,000 cases of abuse of vulnerable adults last year, according to official figures from the NHS Information Centre Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117715/social-workers-confused-over-college-and-gscc-roles.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117715/social-workers-confused-over-college-and-gscc-roles.htmlDespite the imminent formation of the College of Social Work many social workers and social work students do not know the difference between a regulator and a professional body. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117709/service-cuts-increase-isolation-among-elderly-finds-survey.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117709/service-cuts-increase-isolation-among-elderly-finds-survey.htmlOlder people believe their well-being is under attack through a combination of cuts to community services, poor care at home services and failings in hospital care, putting an overstretched NHS under even greater pressure, research from the WRVS released today shows. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/03/117703/lord-low-government-should-not-remove-dla-mobility-benefit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/03/117703/lord-low-government-should-not-remove-dla-mobility-benefit.htmlRemoving mobility benefits for disabled people living in residential care would be "a serious step backwards for disability rights", according to Lord Low's review of the issue. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/03/117701/campaign-to-boost-status-of-care-service-managers-launched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/03/117701/campaign-to-boost-status-of-care-service-managers-launched.htmlA campaign has been launched to raise the "disappointing" status of registered care managers to ensure they are regarded as "recognised professionals" on a par with doctors, nurses and social workers. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/02/117702/how-a-board-game-is-helping-social-care-staff-implement-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/02/117702/how-a-board-game-is-helping-social-care-staff-implement-personalisation.htmlA board game that helps staff, providers and service users understand personalisation has succeeded in changing the culture in some organisations, reports Louise HuntWed, 02 Nov 2011 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/02/117699/ukhca-outlines-the-rules-on-rest-periods-for-homecare-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/02/117699/ukhca-outlines-the-rules-on-rest-periods-for-homecare-workers.htmlColin Angel, policy and campaigns director of the United Kingdom Homecare Association, outlines the association's position regarding the rest periods domiciliary care staff should take while working Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/31/117686/care-complaints-in-elderly-care-treble-in-wales.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/31/117686/care-complaints-in-elderly-care-treble-in-wales.htmlThe number of referrals to the Care Council for Wales (CCW) involving student social workers has fallen over the past two years, according to latest figures. Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117672/what-is-best-for-a-couple-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117672/what-is-best-for-a-couple-with-dementia.htmlFamilies and partners can often be a source of support, but there are times when the individual needs of couples can be in conflict with each other, paricularly in cases of dementiaWed, 26 Oct 2011 16:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117670/lansley-500-nursing-homes-face-dignity-and-nutrition-probes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117670/lansley-500-nursing-homes-face-dignity-and-nutrition-probes.htmlNutrition and patient dignity standards at 500 nursing homes are to be checked over the next six months, health secretary Andrew Lansley (pictured) said today.Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117674/book-review-hearing-the-person-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117674/book-review-hearing-the-person-with-dementia.htmlRecent policy initiatives such as the dementia strategy for England have encouraged an increasing awareness of the needs of people with dementia, writes Dr Elaine Argyle. Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117667/supporting-people-cuts-put-people-at-risk-and-shunt-costs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117667/supporting-people-cuts-put-people-at-risk-and-shunt-costs.htmlSupporting People cuts will put vulnerable people at risk and shunt costs on to other parts of the care and support system, councils have warned. Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/24/117654/should-scrs-be-mandatory-when-vulnerable-adults-are-killed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/24/117654/should-scrs-be-mandatory-when-vulnerable-adults-are-killed.htmlCalls to mandate serious case reviews when adults at risk are murdered fail to recognise there are other ways of learning lessons, finds Natalie Valios Mon, 24 Oct 2011 21:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/24/117658/dilnot-proposals-will-not-deliver-insurance-market-for-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/24/117658/dilnot-proposals-will-not-deliver-insurance-market-for-care.htmlThe insurance industry is unlikely to back the Dilnot Commission's proposals to reform adult care funding, according to a think-tank chief.Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117641/families-denied-information-on-ex-southern-cross-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117641/families-denied-information-on-ex-southern-cross-homes.htmlFamilies will struggle to judge the quality of former Southern Cross care homes because they cannot access information on past performance, it has emerged. Care Quality Commission chief executive Cynthia Bower (left) has promised to look into the issue.Fri, 21 Oct 2011 15:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117644/lansley-nhs-cash-has-stabilised-care-eligibility-thresholds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117644/lansley-nhs-cash-has-stabilised-care-eligibility-thresholds.htmlCouncils have stabilised eligibility thresholds and put in place services to cut hospital admissions with money transferred from the NHS this year, health secretary Andrew Lansley said today.Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117636/councils-dont-know-how-to-identify-carers-says-charity-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117636/councils-dont-know-how-to-identify-carers-says-charity-chief.htmlMany councils are failing to support carers effectively because they do not know how to find them, outgoing Carers UK chief executive Imelda Redmond has warmed.Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117377/the-role-of-the-social-care-broker.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117377/the-role-of-the-social-care-broker.htmlPersonalisation and personal budgets have brought new skills and jobs in social care, including brokerage. But it is unclear what this role involves and who should be doing it. Steve Dowson argues it is best done independently of the local authority rather than by council care managers Wed, 19 Oct 2011 19:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117628/care-home-staff-feel-untrusted-by-adult-safeguarding-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117628/care-home-staff-feel-untrusted-by-adult-safeguarding-system.htmlCare home staff feel "under pressure" and "not trusted" because of the number of adult safeguarding alerts providers feel they have to make, sometimes for trivial issues.Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117625/personal-budgets-emphasis-risks-excluding-complex-needs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117625/personal-budgets-emphasis-risks-excluding-complex-needs.htmlThe emphasis on providing personal budgets for all risks failing to deliver personalised care for people with the most complex needs, a report from Demos warns today.Wed, 19 Oct 2011 11:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117618/councils-urged-to-sign-up-to-new-personalisation-indicators.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117618/councils-urged-to-sign-up-to-new-personalisation-indicators.htmlCouncils and providers have been urged to sign up to a new suite of indicators on personalisation and publish details of their progress against them. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117619/cut-social-workers-planning-role-to-empower-users.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117619/cut-social-workers-planning-role-to-empower-users.htmlSocial workers' role in support planning should be radically reduced to enable service users to take control of deciding how to spend their personal budgets, an influential paper said this week. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117620/cut-bureaucracy-for-service-users-councils-told.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117620/cut-bureaucracy-for-service-users-councils-told.htmlRestrictions on how service users spend personal budgets should be lifted, say sector leaders. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/18/117580/monitoring-duplication-blights-care-home-managers-lives.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/18/117580/monitoring-duplication-blights-care-home-managers-lives.htmlCare home managers are finding their time increasingly taken up by multiple information requests as councils, primary care trusts and the Care Quality Commission each look to monitor standards. Jeremy Dunning reports Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/16/117613/cqc-failing-to-protect-adults-abused-or-neglected-in-hospital.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/16/117613/cqc-failing-to-protect-adults-abused-or-neglected-in-hospital.htmlThe Care Quality Commission is failing to protect adults experiencing abuse or neglect in hospitals, Action on Elder Abuse has claimed in a damning report.Sun, 16 Oct 2011 00:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/15/117663/pcts-facing-more-appeals-against-continuing-care-decisions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/15/117663/pcts-facing-more-appeals-against-continuing-care-decisions.htmlThe NHS faced more appeals against decisions to deny people continuing healthcare funding last year and a greater proportion were successful, Community Care research shows. (Picture: Rex, posed by model)Sat, 15 Oct 2011 15:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/14/117610/overcoming-social-work-barriers-to-person-centred-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/14/117610/overcoming-social-work-barriers-to-person-centred-care.htmlSome social care staff struggle to deliver person-centred care. But a report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation offers advice on how many of the perceived barriers can be overcome with the right attitude and commitment Fri, 14 Oct 2011 20:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/13/117595/patients-stripped-of-dignity-in-hospitals-warns-cqc.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/13/117595/patients-stripped-of-dignity-in-hospitals-warns-cqc.htmlPatients are being "stripped of their dignity" on many hospital wards because of poor staff attitudes, inadequate leadership and stretched resources, the Care Quality Commission warned today. (Picture posed by model, Rex) Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/11/117565/benefits-of-home-care-reablement-in-the-long-term.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/11/117565/benefits-of-home-care-reablement-in-the-long-term.htmlReablement is popular with service users and although not the cheapest option, may have longer term benefits. Jill Manthorpe reviews the evidence Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/10/117584/government-will-not-prop-up-failing-care-providers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/10/117584/government-will-not-prop-up-failing-care-providers.htmlThe government will not prop up care providers whose businesses have failed, in the wake of the Southern Cross case. Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117577/lansleys-continuing-care-plan-could-save-300m-a-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117577/lansleys-continuing-care-plan-could-save-300m-a-year.htmlHealth secretary Andrew Lansley's (pictured) plans to extend personal health budgets (PHBs) to people receiving continuing healthcare could save £300m a year nationally.Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117578/southern-cross-to-close-home-at-centre-of-abuse-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117578/southern-cross-to-close-home-at-centre-of-abuse-inquiry.htmlSouthern Cross is to close a nursing home at the centre of an abuse inquiry weeks before its transfer to a new provider, it announced today. Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/06/117567/how-a-uk-council-is-helping-a-remote-atlantic-island-deliver-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/06/117567/how-a-uk-council-is-helping-a-remote-atlantic-island-deliver-social-care.htmlThe island associated with Napoleon's exile has forged a relationship with a Scottish council to improve its social care. Natalie Valios reports Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/05/117550/council-to-halt-placements-in-third-of-care-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/05/117550/council-to-halt-placements-in-third-of-care-homes.htmlOne in three of Newcastle-upon-Tyne's care homes will not receive any more council-funded places after a year-long row over funding.Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/05/117558/arrests-over-suspected-ill-treatment-at-southern-cross-home.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/05/117558/arrests-over-suspected-ill-treatment-at-southern-cross-home.htmlTwo current or former staff at a Southern Cross nursing home have been arrested and bailed on suspicion of ill-treating or neglecting residents.Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/03/117544/patchy-care-home-advocacy-provision-prompts-review-in-wales.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/03/117544/patchy-care-home-advocacy-provision-prompts-review-in-wales.htmlA review has been launched into advocacy arrangements for older people living in care homes in Wales, following growing evidence of inconsistent provision across the country. Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117543/care-providers-demand-return-to-star-ratings-style-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117543/care-providers-demand-return-to-star-ratings-style-system.htmlSocial care leaders have called for a similar system to the quality ratings scheme scrapped last year to be introduced to assess adult providers after plans to introduce an excellence award were scrappedFri, 30 Sep 2011 18:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117494/how-to-improve-nutritional-standards-in-care-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117494/how-to-improve-nutritional-standards-in-care-homes.htmlA care home in Wimbledon has become an academy of nutrition as it responds constantly to residents' food fancies while maintaining quality, reports Jeremy DunningFri, 30 Sep 2011 18:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117492/research-protecting-adults-at-risk-across-council-boundaries.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117492/research-protecting-adults-at-risk-across-council-boundaries.htmlThe Social Care Institute for Excellence has worked with London councils, the police and the NHS to produce guidelines on safeguarding adults Fri, 30 Sep 2011 18:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117514/social-care-providers-excellence-award-to-be-ditched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117514/social-care-providers-excellence-award-to-be-ditched.htmlThe government is to drop the planned excellence award for social care providers after it was universally rejected by the sector. Care Quality Commission chair Jo Williams (pictured) has said that she saw no prospect of the scheme going ahead.Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117526/personalisation-are-personal-budgets-improving-outcomes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117526/personalisation-are-personal-budgets-improving-outcomes.htmlResearch published this year found personal budgets were improving outcomes for users. Consultant Colin Slasberg (pictured left) claims the positive effects are not the work of personal budgets but of funding levels. In a response, research author Chris Hatton (right) says his findings are robust Fri, 30 Sep 2011 10:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/29/117531/care-chiefs-to-discuss-how-to-cut-fees-without-damaging-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/29/117531/care-chiefs-to-discuss-how-to-cut-fees-without-damaging-care.htmlTalks are to start with councils to relieve the pressure on care home providers which are required to maintain service quality despite real-terms fee cuts.Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/29/117530/safeguarding-adult-boards-struggling-to-secure-resources.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/29/117530/safeguarding-adult-boards-struggling-to-secure-resources.htmlSafeguarding adult boards are struggling to secure sufficient resources and the participation of key agencies in their work, a Department of Health-commissioned study finds today. Thu, 29 Sep 2011 14:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117524/supporting-service-users-to-become-employers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117524/supporting-service-users-to-become-employers.htmlCommunity Care and Unison's 2011 personalisation survey found social workers needed advice on supporting service users to employ a personal assistant. Independent social worker Kelly Hicks offers some guidanceWed, 28 Sep 2011 15:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117520/practice-panel-isolated-woman-with-learning-disabilities-risks-her-health-by-overeating.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117520/practice-panel-isolated-woman-with-learning-disabilities-risks-her-health-by-overeating.htmlExperts offer advice on supporting a learning disabled woman whose health is at risk because she will not leave her mother Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/27/117511/carers-back-call-for-extended-visiting-times-in-hospitals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/27/117511/carers-back-call-for-extended-visiting-times-in-hospitals.htmlRelatives should be more involved in supplying care for their loved ones in hospital as long as it does not replace NHS support, a carers group has said.Tue, 27 Sep 2011 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/27/117461/research-findings-on-improving-dementia-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/27/117461/research-findings-on-improving-dementia-care.htmlDr Mary Pat Sullivan and colleagues examine key research findings on dementia Tue, 27 Sep 2011 11:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/23/117504/limited-uptake-of-personal-budgets-in-scottish-pilot-areas.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/23/117504/limited-uptake-of-personal-budgets-in-scottish-pilot-areas.htmlJust 150 new personal budget arrangements were set up in three Scottish self-directed support pilot sites over the past two years despite “significant investment from the Scottish government”, a study has found. Fri, 23 Sep 2011 17:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/22/117487/how-social-care-can-prevent-fire-deaths.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/22/117487/how-social-care-can-prevent-fire-deaths.htmlFire chief Rita Dexter explains how social care staff can minimise risks to older service usersThu, 22 Sep 2011 11:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117485/scots-councils-face-6-cut-amid-boost-to-older-peoples-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117485/scots-councils-face-6-cut-amid-boost-to-older-peoples-care.htmlCouncils in Scotland face a 6% real-terms cut in central funding over the next three years though additional money is being made available to improve care for older people in 2012-13, the Scottish government announced today.Wed, 21 Sep 2011 15:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117481/college-of-social-work-to-launch-without-basw.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117481/college-of-social-work-to-launch-without-basw.htmlThe College of Social Work will formally launch on 3 January next year, without the support of the British Association of Social Workers. Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117482/social-workers-fail-to-signpost-service-users-to-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117482/social-workers-fail-to-signpost-service-users-to-support.htmlSocial workers risk failing to signpost service users to valuable sources of support from peers and community organisations because of a lack of awareness.Wed, 21 Sep 2011 07:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/19/117472/reassessments-of-users-subject-to-care-cuts-were-tokenistic.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/19/117472/reassessments-of-users-subject-to-care-cuts-were-tokenistic.htmlService users subject to cuts say reassessments of their needs were a "rubberstamping exercise", says a report on a council that has raised eligibility thresholds. Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/16/117456/nursing-homes-are-least-compliant-with-cqc-standards.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/16/117456/nursing-homes-are-least-compliant-with-cqc-standards.htmlNursing homes are less compliant with Care Quality Commission standards overall than other social care services, according to early findings from inspections under the new regulatory system introduced last year. Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117464/scotland-toughens-up-care-home-inspection-regime.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117464/scotland-toughens-up-care-home-inspection-regime.htmlScottish care homes will get at least one unannounced inspection a year, under plans to toughen up scrutiny of services announced today by health secretary Nicola Sturgeon. Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117448/burstow-calls-on-sector-to-shape-social-care-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117448/burstow-calls-on-sector-to-shape-social-care-reforms.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has called on the social care sector to help shape its forthcoming White Paper in a three-month consultation launched today. Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117442/personalisation-councils-urged-to-boost-user-choice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117442/personalisation-councils-urged-to-boost-user-choice.htmlThe roll-out of personal budgets will only deliver personal value for money if councils take steps to increase choice for users in the social care market, the National Audit Office said today. Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117443/burstow-announces-10m-boost-for-dementia-memory-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117443/burstow-announces-10m-boost-for-dementia-memory-services.htmlThe government has announced a £10m boost for dementia memory services to improve earlier diagnosis and treatment of the condition. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117441/professionals-at-odds-over-deprivation-of-liberty-safeguards.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117441/professionals-at-odds-over-deprivation-of-liberty-safeguards.htmlSocial workers need much clearer guidance about the deprivation of liberty safeguards (Dols) after a study found widespread disagreement between professionals about what constituted a deprivation.Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117439/mps-blame-lack-of-cqc-inspections-on-distorted-priorities.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117439/mps-blame-lack-of-cqc-inspections-on-distorted-priorities.htmlThe Care Quality Commission’s “distorted priorities” were responsible for a recent fall in inspections of adult social care services, MPs have said.Wed, 14 Sep 2011 10:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117423/extra-care-housing-delivers-better-outcomes-than-home-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117423/extra-care-housing-delivers-better-outcomes-than-home-care.htmlSocial care professionals have been told to give users more information and advice on extra care housing after research found that it led to better outcomes and reduced costs compared with home care alone. Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117424/vulnerable-lose-out-on-advocacy-as-cuts-and-demand-take-toll.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117424/vulnerable-lose-out-on-advocacy-as-cuts-and-demand-take-toll.htmlAccess to advocacy for vulnerable groups is to fall significantly due to a combination of rising demand and substantial funding cuts, sector umbrella group Action for Advocacy has found.Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117430/council-gives-social-workers-more-time-to-reassess-users.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117430/council-gives-social-workers-more-time-to-reassess-users.htmlSocial workers have been given longer to assess service users at risk from cuts in West Sussex to ensure their needs are thoroughly reviewed. Mon, 12 Sep 2011 17:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117432/cqc-to-slim-down-inspections-of-care-providers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117432/cqc-to-slim-down-inspections-of-care-providers.htmlCare providers will face slimmed down inspections under reforms to the Care Quality Commission's regulation regime. Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117418/social-workers-need-more-awareness-of-exhausted-older-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117418/social-workers-need-more-awareness-of-exhausted-older-carers.htmlSocial care professionals have been urged to become more aware of the needs of older carers after a survey found two-thirds had long-term health problems.Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117410/care-home-workers-take-part-in-the-worldskills-competition.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117410/care-home-workers-take-part-in-the-worldskills-competition.htmlTwo care assistants are representing the UK at this year's WorldSkills competition. Kirsty McGregor finds out about their ambitions and the training involved Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117421/concern-over-lack-of-transparency-in-personal-budget-setting.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117421/concern-over-lack-of-transparency-in-personal-budget-setting.htmlSector leaders have raised concerns over the transparency of personal budgets after research found councils could not provide information on how their resource allocation systems converted assessments into budgets. Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117416/court-allows-challenge-to-councils-rise-in-care-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117416/court-allows-challenge-to-councils-rise-in-care-threshold.htmlThe High Court has allowed a legal challenge against Isle of Wight Council's decision to raise eligibility thresholds for adult care, limiting access to those substantial needs. Fri, 09 Sep 2011 13:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/07/117400/community-care-launches-website-for-adult-care-practitioners.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/07/117400/community-care-launches-website-for-adult-care-practitioners.htmlResidential and domiciliary care staff are an important part of the social care universe but it is too easy for their needs to be ignored. Community Care has set out to address this problem with the launch of the latest addition to www.communitycare.co.uk - You Care. Wed, 07 Sep 2011 10:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/06/117394/cuts-damaging-viability-of-rural-home-care-visits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/06/117394/cuts-damaging-viability-of-rural-home-care-visits.htmlRural home care services are becoming unviable become of the combined impact of cuts and journey times between visits, according to the United Kingdom Home Care Association. Tue, 06 Sep 2011 13:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/06/117393/home-care-staff-face-worsening-pay-and-reduced-safety.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/06/117393/home-care-staff-face-worsening-pay-and-reduced-safety.htmlHome care staff are facing reduced pay and conditions and are being put at risk because of council cuts to providers, a United Kingdom Homecare Association survey has found. Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/05/117392/service-users-at-risk-as-home-care-cuts-shorten-visits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/05/117392/service-users-at-risk-as-home-care-cuts-shorten-visits.htmlService users' safety and dignity are being put at risk due to council home care cuts, sector leaders have warned after a survey revealed service shortcomings. Mon, 05 Sep 2011 15:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/02/117388/another-council-faces-legal-action-over-care-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/02/117388/another-council-faces-legal-action-over-care-threshold.htmlIsle of Wight Council faces a legal challenge over its decision to raise eligibility thresholds for adult care, limiting access to those with substantial needs. The case will be heard next Thursday at the High Court (pictured) in London.Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/116931/southern-cross-crisis-prompts-call-for-regulator.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/116931/southern-cross-crisis-prompts-call-for-regulator.htmlThe Southern Cross Healthcare case has highlighted the need for an economic regulator to monitor the finances of larger private care providers, experts have said.Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/117379/improving-social-workers-end-of-life-care-skills.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/117379/improving-social-workers-end-of-life-care-skills.htmlSocial workers taking part in specialist end-of-life care training are gaining new skills and more confidence, writes Maria Ahmed Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/117376/how-councils-can-implement-personalisation-without-bureaucracy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/117376/how-councils-can-implement-personalisation-without-bureaucracy.htmlPersonalisation has made lives more difficult for the people it is supposed to help while adding red tape to the process, writes social care consultant Andrew TysonThu, 01 Sep 2011 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117371/benefit-cut-will-see-disabled-people-lose-out-on-essentials.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117371/benefit-cut-will-see-disabled-people-lose-out-on-essentials.htmlMost disabled people would have to cut back on food and transport if they lost out on disability living allowance under plans to cut the benefit, a survey has found. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 12:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117369/half-of-councils-failed-to-carry-out-12-week-consultations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117369/half-of-councils-failed-to-carry-out-12-week-consultations.htmlMore than half of councils failed to comply with the government's recommended 12-week period for consultation in setting their adult social care budgets for 2011-12. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 11:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117366/one-in-10-council-adult-social-care-budgets-may-be-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117366/one-in-10-council-adult-social-care-budgets-may-be-illegal.htmlOne in 10 councils may have breached equality laws by failing to consult properly on cuts to adult care this year, an investigation by Community Care has revealed. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 11:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117368/legal-claims-on-council-social-care-policies-up-by-45.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117368/legal-claims-on-council-social-care-policies-up-by-45.htmlThe number of legal challenges to council social care policies rose by 45% last year and more are being successful, an investigation by Community Care has revealed. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117362/social-care-providers-sound-alarm-over-council-fee-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117362/social-care-providers-sound-alarm-over-council-fee-cuts.htmlCare quality will suffer in Leeds' residential and nursing homes on the back of recommendations to cut fees to the independent sector, providers have warned. Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/24/117348/disability-web-forum-to-be-reinstated-after-talks-with-atos.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/24/117348/disability-web-forum-to-be-reinstated-after-talks-with-atos.htmlThe Carer Watch discussion forum is to be reinstated after the campaign group reached an agreement with Atos Healthcare regarding allegedly libellous posts about the disability assessment company. Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/23/117338/agencies-ignoring-400-suicides-a-year-by-terminally-ill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/23/117338/agencies-ignoring-400-suicides-a-year-by-terminally-ill.htmlMore than 400 people with terminal or chronic illnesses commit suicide each year, but the issue is being neglected by government and health services, says think-tank Demos.Tue, 23 Aug 2011 10:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/18/117328/women-present-new-homelessness-and-mental-health-problem.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/18/117328/women-present-new-homelessness-and-mental-health-problem.htmlHomelessness agencies in London are facing a problem of middle-aged and older women with undiagnosed mental health problems sleeping rough but refusing offers of help. Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117326/council-strips-social-workers-union-of-recognition.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117326/council-strips-social-workers-union-of-recognition.htmlPlymouth Council has stripped local Unison officials of their negotiating powers after the two organisations failed to reach a collective agreement on new terms and conditions, which will affect social workers. Wed, 17 Aug 2011 17:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117322/most-social-workers-have-seen-abuse-in-residential-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117322/most-social-workers-have-seen-abuse-in-residential-care.htmlEight in 10 social workers have witnessed abuse in adult residential care homes, a British Association of Social Workers (BASW) survey has discovered. Many described it as "extreme abuse", which BASW said suggested the scenes filmed by Panorama at Winterbourne View (pictured).Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117318/councils-slash-home-care-jobs-under-impact-of-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117318/councils-slash-home-care-jobs-under-impact-of-personalisation.htmlCouncils slashed in-house home care jobs by 9% last year on the back of the increase in personal budgets and the long-term trend to commission services from the independent sector, research shows.Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117305/book-review-longcare-survivors-the-biography-of-a-care-scandal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117305/book-review-longcare-survivors-the-biography-of-a-care-scandal.htmlLongcare Survivors starts gently with a look at the history of care until the present day and includes referencing and further reading, writes Ian Taylor. Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117293/rioters-destroy-age-concern-ambulance.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117293/rioters-destroy-age-concern-ambulance.htmlThe riots have depleted an ambulance service that takes dementia patients to day centres after a gang torched one vehicle and badly scorched another.Fri, 12 Aug 2011 11:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/11/117292/house-of-lords-to-be-social-worker-awards-venue.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/11/117292/house-of-lords-to-be-social-worker-awards-venue.htmlSocial workers will be honoured at the Houses of Parliament on 16 December when the House of Lords hosts the Social Worker of the Year Awards.Thu, 11 Aug 2011 16:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/10/117280/councils-face-mounting-pressures-as-pcts-cut-continuing-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/10/117280/councils-face-mounting-pressures-as-pcts-cut-continuing-care.htmlAdult social services are facing increased pressures and families higher care bills due to NHS cuts to continuing healthcare, warn social care leaders.Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/10/117279/the-seven-things-that-providers-must-report-to-cqc.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/10/117279/the-seven-things-that-providers-must-report-to-cqc.htmlSome incidents are unavoidable in care settings, but which ones must be reported to the Care Quality Commission? Vern Pitt reports Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/08/117272/10-point-guide-to-housing-benefit-changes-and-what-they-mean-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/08/117272/10-point-guide-to-housing-benefit-changes-and-what-they-mean-for-social-care.htmlThere are few issues that unite the Archbishop of Canterbury, Boris Johnson, the Council of Mortgage Lenders and the National Housing Federation. But the impact of housing benefit changes on tenants and landlords has managed to unify this disparate bunch, with dramatic warnings of "social cleansing" coming from the Mayor of London and the CML pondering whether providing funding for housing associations is a good idea in future. Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/06/117264/ministers-under-pressure-to-ditch-adult-care-excellence-award.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/06/117264/ministers-under-pressure-to-ditch-adult-care-excellence-award.htmlMinisters and the Care Quality Commission are coming under pressure to ditch the planned "excellence award" scheme for adult care providers after the idea was universally condemned by sector bodies in a consultation.Sat, 06 Aug 2011 11:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/112730/jrf-project-identifies-eight-pillars-of-a-good-care-home.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/112730/jrf-project-identifies-eight-pillars-of-a-good-care-home.htmlA Joseph Rowntree Foundation project has identified eight "pillars" of best practice in care homes to ensure good quality of life for residents.Fri, 05 Aug 2011 23:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/115058/aspirations-of-older-people-living-in-residential-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/115058/aspirations-of-older-people-living-in-residential-care.htmlThe Joseph Rowntree Foundation offers a stern critique of current services and a blueprint for how older people can enjoy a better life, as Melanie Henwood found Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116911/councils-slammed-for-curbing-use-of-personal-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116911/councils-slammed-for-curbing-use-of-personal-budgets.htmlCouncils have been slammed for denying clients choice and control after Community Care's personalisation survey found restrictions being placed on the use of personal budgets for items including holidays and computer equipment.Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/113902/good-practice-north-yorkshire-telecareassistive-technology.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/113902/good-practice-north-yorkshire-telecareassistive-technology.htmlOlder people in North Yorkshire are seeing the benefits of the council's progressive approach to telecare devices. By Natalie ValiosFri, 05 Aug 2011 16:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/114518/rolling-out-personalisation-to-mental-health-service-users.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/114518/rolling-out-personalisation-to-mental-health-service-users.htmlA project led by Mind to tackle the low take-up of self-directed support among mental health service users has returned some positive results, writes Jeremy Dunning Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116873/how-bureaucracy-is-derailing-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116873/how-bureaucracy-is-derailing-personalisation.htmlAs our survey finds social workers are facing ever more red tape, Jeremy Dunning asks why bureaucracy is derailing personalisation and what can be done to rescue the policy Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116913/hard-to-reach-groups-still-face-personal-budgets-barriers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116913/hard-to-reach-groups-still-face-personal-budgets-barriers.htmlSeveral client groups, including older people and those with mental health problems, continue to face barriers in gaining personal budgets, say social care professionals. Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/117039/home-care-breaches-human-rights-finds-equality-watchdog.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/117039/home-care-breaches-human-rights-finds-equality-watchdog.htmlHome care services in the UK are breaching older people’s human rights, the Equality and Human Rights Commission warned today. Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116740/cqc-delivers-poor-value-for-money-says-provider-leader.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/05/116740/cqc-delivers-poor-value-for-money-says-provider-leader.htmlThe Care Quality Commission has been accused of offering poor value after it raised providers' fees while slashing the number of inspections it carries out.Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/04/117266/social-care-staff-freed-from-registering-cars-as-minicabs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/04/117266/social-care-staff-freed-from-registering-cars-as-minicabs.htmlOlder and disabled people will be able to "get out of their houses for the first time in years" under moves to free social care staff from registering their private cars as minicabs.Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/04/117254/prisoners-provide-social-care-governors-admit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/04/117254/prisoners-provide-social-care-governors-admit.htmlMore than one-third of prison governors believe the quality of social care in their prison is below average or poor, research by Community Care has revealed. In a Prison Governors Association (PGA) survey, 40% of respondents also said prisoners provided social care in their prison. Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117257/social-worker-who-threw-case-file-at-manager-can-reregister.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117257/social-worker-who-threw-case-file-at-manager-can-reregister.htmlA stressed social worker who was struck off after throwing a case file at his manager is to be allowed to rejoin the register. (Picture: Isopix/Rex Features)Tue, 02 Aug 2011 12:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117256/cqc-inspections-up-one-third-in-past-three-months.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117256/cqc-inspections-up-one-third-in-past-three-months.htmlInspections by the Care Quality Commission have risen by a third in the past three months, marking a partial reversal of the sharp drop in site visits in the past year, official figures show. Tue, 02 Aug 2011 11:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117233/thousands-of-care-homes-have-no-registered-manager.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117233/thousands-of-care-homes-have-no-registered-manager.htmlMore than 3,000 care homes in England do not have a registered manager, reflecting a crisis of quality in the sector, Action on Elder Abuse warns today.Fri, 29 Jul 2011 17:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117241/ex-priory-boss-southern-cross-home-operators-face-battle.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117241/ex-priory-boss-southern-cross-home-operators-face-battle.htmlOperators taking over Southern Cross homes face a long battle to earn the trust of residents and relatives, ex-Priory Group boss Dr Chai Patel (left) has admitted as he prepares to take over one-third of the homes. Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/28/117237/carers-uk-chief-asked-to-lead-social-care-quality-probe.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/28/117237/carers-uk-chief-asked-to-lead-social-care-quality-probe.htmlCarers UK chief executive Imelda Redmond (pictured) has been asked by ministers to examine how the quality of social care can be raised, in the light of concerns sparked by cases including Winterbourne View.Thu, 28 Jul 2011 16:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/28/117230/government-promises-training-for-personal-assistants.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/28/117230/government-promises-training-for-personal-assistants.htmlPersonal assistants will have access to minimum levels of training, and service users given guaranteed support in employing them as part of a framework for PAs published today. Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/27/117229/care-advice-body-counsel-and-care-saved-by-charity-merger.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/27/117229/care-advice-body-counsel-and-care-saved-by-charity-merger.htmlCare advice organisation Counsel and Care has been saved from closing its services through a merger with another older people's charity, it announced today. Wed, 27 Jul 2011 17:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/22/117216/pay-cut-council-may-outsource-adult-care-provision.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/22/117216/pay-cut-council-may-outsource-adult-care-provision.htmlSouthampton Council is considering proposals to outsource its adult social care services, weeks after introducing a pay cut for most staff. Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/22/117214/dont-blame-it-systems-for-bureaucracy-in-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/22/117214/dont-blame-it-systems-for-bureaucracy-in-personalisation.htmlIT company Face's managing director, Dr Paul Clifford responds to the accusation that personalisation assessment process has led to more bureaucracy Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117212/cuts-will-damage-social-care-service-levels-finance-expert.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117212/cuts-will-damage-social-care-service-levels-finance-expert.htmlSocial care departments will struggle to maintain "decent levels of services" without extra government funding, a finance expert has warned. Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117195/southern-cross-worker-lands-top-caring-award.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117195/southern-cross-worker-lands-top-caring-award.htmlA Southern Cross employee has become the second winner of the WorldSkills UK Caring Competition.Thu, 21 Jul 2011 11:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/19/117202/burstow-tells-southern-cross-landlords-to-reassure-residents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/19/117202/burstow-tells-southern-cross-landlords-to-reassure-residents.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow today urged Southern Cross landlords to quickly set out their plans for the future of the failed company's 752 care homes Tue, 19 Jul 2011 16:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/19/117196/bid-to-let-families-buy-unregulated-care-with-personal-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/19/117196/bid-to-let-families-buy-unregulated-care-with-personal-budgets.htmlFamilies would be freer to purchase unregulated domiciliary care services on behalf of loved-ones who hold personal budgets under government plans issued today to cut red tape. Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/19/117201/charities-launch-review-of-disability-benefit-cut.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/19/117201/charities-launch-review-of-disability-benefit-cut.htmlCharities have launched a review of government proposals to remove up to £50 a week in mobility benefits from disabled people in care homes. Tue, 19 Jul 2011 12:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/18/117190/biggest-southern-cross-landlord-to-set-up-firm-to-run-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/18/117190/biggest-southern-cross-landlord-to-set-up-firm-to-run-homes.htmlNHP, the biggest landlord of failing care home provider Southern Cross, confirmed today it will pump £14m into a new company to run 249 of its properties.Mon, 18 Jul 2011 12:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117186/did-dilnots-proposals-for-adult-care-funding-meet-sector-expectations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117186/did-dilnots-proposals-for-adult-care-funding-meet-sector-expectations.htmlHow well do the Dilnot commission's proposals measure up against key reform objectives, asks Jeremy Dunning Fri, 15 Jul 2011 23:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117185/cqc-to-double-inspections-of-adult-care-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117185/cqc-to-double-inspections-of-adult-care-services.htmlAdult social care services would be inspected at least once a year under Care Quality Commission plans to call time on "light-touch" regulation. Currently, services are inspected at least once every two years. Fri, 15 Jul 2011 14:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117182/southern-cross-homes-left-in-rack-and-ruin.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117182/southern-cross-homes-left-in-rack-and-ruin.htmlMany Southern Cross homes have been left in a state of "rack and ruin", it has been claimed.Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117178/social-workers-failings-left-dementia-sufferer-in-squalor.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117178/social-workers-failings-left-dementia-sufferer-in-squalor.htmlSocial workers have been criticised for allowing an elderly woman with dementia to be left in filthy conditions.Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117176/government-cant-agree-on-dilnot-social-care-reform-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117176/government-cant-agree-on-dilnot-social-care-reform-funding.htmlThe coalition government cannot agree on how to find the extra funding needed for adult social care reform, the care services minister Paul Burstow (pictured) has admitted.Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117170/burstow-slams-pcts-for-failing-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117170/burstow-slams-pcts-for-failing-carers.htmlCare minister Paul Burstow has slammed primary care trusts for failing carers after a survey revealed more than 90% had failed to produce plans on spending their share of an additional £400m of government cash for carers' breaks.Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117173/more-care-homes-on-the-brink-of-closure-as-fees-fall.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117173/more-care-homes-on-the-brink-of-closure-as-fees-fall.htmlMany more care home providers across the UK will follow Southern Cross into administration this year because of cuts to care home fees, a study by sector analysts Laing and Buisson predicts. Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117164/research-improving-social-care-services-for-vulnerable-adults.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117164/research-improving-social-care-services-for-vulnerable-adults.htmlTo help avoid future abuse scandals such as that of Winterbourne View, the Social Care Institute for Excellence has produced resources to help staff, managers and commissioners improve the services available for vulnerable adults Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117152/southern-cross-landlords-set-to-create-thousands-of-jobs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117152/southern-cross-landlords-set-to-create-thousands-of-jobs.htmlPlans to cut 3,000 jobs and reduce working conditions at Southern Cross are "dead in the water", following the announcement of the company's plans to close today, an expert has said.Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117150/cut-hospital-beds-by-10-to-fund-dementia-care-say-mps.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117150/cut-hospital-beds-by-10-to-fund-dementia-care-say-mps.htmlThe NHS should cut at least 10% of hospital beds to free up funds for community-based dementia care services, MPs and peers have recommended. Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/11/117148/southern-cross-set-to-shut-down.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/11/117148/southern-cross-set-to-shut-down.htmlSouthern Cross is to stop running care homes after all its landlords said they wanted to leave the group.Mon, 11 Jul 2011 11:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117145/dilnot-makes-funding-reform-call-as-cuts-ravage-care-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117145/dilnot-makes-funding-reform-call-as-cuts-ravage-care-system.htmlAndrew Dilnot's call for a significant injection of cash to reform social care came in a week where the funding shortages ravaging the current system were laid bare. Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/07/117136/cuts-to-adult-social-care-to-worsen-next-year-warns-adass.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/07/117136/cuts-to-adult-social-care-to-worsen-next-year-warns-adass.htmlCuts to adult social care are set to get worse in 2012-13 following big reductions in funding this year, Association of Directors of Adult Social Services president Peter Hay (pictured) warned today. Thu, 07 Jul 2011 10:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117131/supreme-court-upholds-councils-right-to-cut-care-packages.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117131/supreme-court-upholds-councils-right-to-cut-care-packages.htmlCouncils' right to cut people’s care without an explicit reassessment of need was upheld in a Supreme Court judgement today. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117129/mps-to-hold-post-dilnot-review-of-adult-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117129/mps-to-hold-post-dilnot-review-of-adult-social-care.htmlMPs are to hold an inquiry into adult social care in the wake of this week's Dilnot commission report, it was announced today. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/05/117126/dilnot-reforms-could-prove-too-costly-warns-lansley.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/05/117126/dilnot-reforms-could-prove-too-costly-warns-lansley.htmlThe Dilnot commission's £1.7bn proposals to reform social care funding could prove too costly to implement in full, health secretary Andrew Lansley warned today. Tue, 05 Jul 2011 17:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117123/government-urged-not-to-stall-on-dilnot-social-care-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117123/government-urged-not-to-stall-on-dilnot-social-care-reforms.htmlThe government was today urged not to delay proposed reforms to adult social care, amid concerns that the Dilnot commission's plans may be "kicked into the long grass". Mon, 04 Jul 2011 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117121/care-system-needs-urgent-cash-before-reform-says-dilnot.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117121/care-system-needs-urgent-cash-before-reform-says-dilnot.htmlThe Dilnot commission today called for “additional public funding” to be pumped into the current care system before its proposed reforms come into force from 2014. Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117115/dilnot-extra-1.7bn-needed-to-overhaul-care-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117115/dilnot-extra-1.7bn-needed-to-overhaul-care-funding.htmlMinisters have been urged to find £1.7bn to implement plans unveiled today to overhaul the care funding system. by the commission on funding care and support. Mon, 04 Jul 2011 09:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117108/how-to.-support-clients-who-direct-their-own-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117108/how-to.-support-clients-who-direct-their-own-care.htmlHow should social workers support clients who direct their own care, asks Gordon Carson Fri, 01 Jul 2011 13:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117109/how-evidence-policy-and-practice-interact.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117109/how-evidence-policy-and-practice-interact.htmlPolicy-makers and researchers must understand each other better if practice is to be truly influenced by evidence. By Jon Glasby Fri, 01 Jul 2011 13:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117102/call-for-super-carers-to-meet-domiciliary-demand.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117102/call-for-super-carers-to-meet-domiciliary-demand.htmlAn army of "super-carers" trained in health and social care will be needed if the government is to meet the rising demand for home care, a study has concluded. Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117104/victory-as-government-does-u-turn-on-social-care-duties.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117104/victory-as-government-does-u-turn-on-social-care-duties.htmlThe government has shelved plans to remove social care duties placed upon councils, after an outcry from Community Care readers. Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117094/older-people-in-care-homes-denied-basic-nhs-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117094/older-people-in-care-homes-denied-basic-nhs-services.htmlOlder people in care homes cannot get access to even the most basic NHS care, doctors warn today. Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117091/reforming-cqc-could-be-destabilising-says-burstow.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117091/reforming-cqc-could-be-destabilising-says-burstow.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow (pictured) has warned that it would be premature to reform the Care Quality Commission, despite sector leaders' criticisms of the regulator's role and remit.Wed, 29 Jun 2011 16:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117092/burstow-public-will-need-convincing-on-dilnot-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117092/burstow-public-will-need-convincing-on-dilnot-reforms.htmlThe government has called on the social care sector to help win over a "lukewarm" public on care funding reform, amid growing jitters over how next week's Dilnot commission report will be received.Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117085/cqc-needs-extra-15m-from-government-for-inspections.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117085/cqc-needs-extra-15m-from-government-for-inspections.htmlThe Care Quality Commission has asked the government for a 10% boost to its budget so that it can make more inspections. CQC chair Jo Williams (pictured) said the money would pay for more inspectors and experts to work alongside them.Wed, 29 Jun 2011 10:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117086/cqc-disciplines-staff-over-winterbourne-view-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117086/cqc-disciplines-staff-over-winterbourne-view-case.htmlA member of staff at the Care Quality Commission has already been disciplined, following the Winterbourne View abuse scandal.Wed, 29 Jun 2011 10:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117081/dilnot-care-funding-reforms-to-face-hostile-public-reaction.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117081/dilnot-care-funding-reforms-to-face-hostile-public-reaction.htmlThe Dilnot commission's proposed reforms of care funding will face a hostile reaction because many people still believe social care should be entirely state-funded. Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117082/government-pledges-20m-boost-for-dementia-research.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117082/government-pledges-20m-boost-for-dementia-research.htmlMore money and expertise is to be ploughed into dementia research over the next five years, the government announced today, fufiling a key coalition pledge. Tue, 28 Jun 2011 11:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117078/social-worker-endures-isolation-to-learn-practice-lessons.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117078/social-worker-endures-isolation-to-learn-practice-lessons.html"I've only lasted half-a-day today. I feel tired and weary and I just needed to get away from the office." Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117075/dilnot-to-urge-50000-cap-on-social-care-costs-for-elderly.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117075/dilnot-to-urge-50000-cap-on-social-care-costs-for-elderly.htmlThe Dilnot commission on social care funding is set to recommend that individuals should have to pay no more than £50,000 with the taxpayer picking up the rest. Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117074/age-uk-reveals-devastating-council-cuts-in-elderly-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117074/age-uk-reveals-devastating-council-cuts-in-elderly-care.htmlCouncils are making 'devastating' cuts of 8.4% to older people's social care in England this year, hastening the 'collapse of a crumbling' system, warns Age UK today. Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/24/117067/cost-warning-over-health-social-enterprises.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/24/117067/cost-warning-over-health-social-enterprises.htmlHealth social enterprises are unlikely to deliver savings, the National Audit Office has warned. Fri, 24 Jun 2011 16:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/24/117068/talking-mats-a-communication-tool-for-people-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/24/117068/talking-mats-a-communication-tool-for-people-with-dementia.htmlSocial worker and academic Melanie Pocock examines a study of the effectiveness of a recently developed technique designed to help dementia sufferers and people with disabilities communicate their views and needs Fri, 24 Jun 2011 10:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117060/labour-urges-state-funded-social-care-for-all.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117060/labour-urges-state-funded-social-care-for-all.htmlLabour has backed a national minimum entitlement to care for all adults in need, ahead of next month's Dilnot commission report on care funding. Wed, 22 Jun 2011 15:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117058/welsh-government-bids-to-cool-social-care-fee-row.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117058/welsh-government-bids-to-cool-social-care-fee-row.htmlThe Welsh government has stepped in to save a landmark partnership agreement between councils and social care providers following a spate of rows over care fees. Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117050/direct-payments-stall-despite-evidence-of-better-outcomes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117050/direct-payments-stall-despite-evidence-of-better-outcomes.htmlDirect payment levels in England have stalled in the past year although they are associated with better outcomes than council-managed personal budgets, major research into personalisation has shown. Wed, 22 Jun 2011 09:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/21/117040/council-failed-to-protect-woman-in-failing-care-home.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/21/117040/council-failed-to-protect-woman-in-failing-care-home.htmlBristol Council has been slammed for failing to protect an older person with dementia who was left in a zero-rated care home that the authority had identified as having serious safeguarding problems. Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117035/interview-with-pam-stopforth.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117035/interview-with-pam-stopforth.htmlA qualified adults social worker for more than 10 years – with the last five focussing on support for dementia sufferers and their carers – Pam Stopforth knows better than most how isolation can affect people. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 10:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/17/117030/union-tells-southern-cross-staff-to-refuse-working-changes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/17/117030/union-tells-southern-cross-staff-to-refuse-working-changes.htmlTroubled care home operator Southern Cross is facing an industrial dispute after the GMB union advised its members to refuse to sign up to revised working conditions. Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/17/117020/councils-inexcusable-delays-left-man-in-poor-care-home.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/17/117020/councils-inexcusable-delays-left-man-in-poor-care-home.htmlBromley Council has been slammed for "extraordinary and inexcusable" delays in reviewing an older man's care by the local government ombudsman. Fri, 17 Jun 2011 00:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/16/117021/southern-cross-strikes-deal-with-landlords.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/16/117021/southern-cross-strikes-deal-with-landlords.htmlAiling care home operator Southern Cross has agreed to work together with its landlords to try to find a future for the group. Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117014/college-of-social-work-greets-nhs-role-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117014/college-of-social-work-greets-nhs-role-for-social-workers.htmlSocial workers will have a positive impact on the NHS through plans to involve them in health commissioning under the government's revamped NHS reforms, the College of Social Work has said. Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117009/most-councils-have-30-of-service-users-on-personal-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117009/most-councils-have-30-of-service-users-on-personal-budgets.htmlMost councils hit a target to have 30% of users and carers on personal budgets by April 2011, but wide variations remain in take-up between authorities, show figures released today. Tue, 14 Jun 2011 13:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117007/government-accepts-revamp-of-health-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117007/government-accepts-revamp-of-health-reforms.htmlPrime minister David Cameron today accepted experts' proposals to overhaul the government's health reforms, including by involving social care professionals in the commissioning of healthcare. Tue, 14 Jun 2011 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117004/social-workers-should-be-involved-in-health-commissioning.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117004/social-workers-should-be-involved-in-health-commissioning.htmlDavid Cameron has been urged to give social workers a role in health commissioning decisions by experts tasked with revamping the government's NHS bill. He will give his response today. Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/116995/d-day-for-southern-cross-as-landlords-decide-its-future.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/116995/d-day-for-southern-cross-as-landlords-decide-its-future.htmlPlans to split ailing care home operator Southern Cross into three could be decided at a key meeting today between the company and the landlords who own its homes. Mon, 13 Jun 2011 11:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/10/116998/some-southern-cross-staff-to-be-offered-worse-job-contracts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/10/116998/some-southern-cross-staff-to-be-offered-worse-job-contracts.htmlAiling care home operator Southern Cross has said that some staff could face reduced terms and conditions when it introduces a new standard contract of employment as part of an operational restructuring. Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116967/unions-fear-for-southern-cross-care-quality-after-job-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116967/unions-fear-for-southern-cross-care-quality-after-job-cuts.htmlFears are growing that staff terms and conditions could worsen and standards of care could fall after ailing care home operator Southern Cross announced plans to shed 3,000 jobs. Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116962/southern-cross-plans-to-slash-3000-jobs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116962/southern-cross-plans-to-slash-3000-jobs.htmlTroubled care home operator Southern Cross today announced plans to slash up to 3,000 jobs as part of a staffing restructure designed to improve performance. Chief executive Jamie Buchan promised to consult staff fully over the cuts. Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116964/care-home-closures-must-take-several-months.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116964/care-home-closures-must-take-several-months.htmlCare home closures should take at least six months to avoid major stress to residents and families, finds practice guidance published today. Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116958/cameron-unveils-nhs-bill-overhaul-to-allay-criticisms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116958/cameron-unveils-nhs-bill-overhaul-to-allay-criticisms.htmlDavid Cameron has announced an overhaul of the NHS reforms designed to address criticisms that the government's original plans would fragment care, to the detriment of vulnerable groups. Wed, 08 Jun 2011 09:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/07/116957/miliband-urges-talks-with-cameron-about-care-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/07/116957/miliband-urges-talks-with-cameron-about-care-reform.htmlEd Miliband today called for talks with David Cameron on care funding reform following next month's Dilnot commission report, to avoid a repeat of last year's pre-election hostility on the issue. Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/06/116948/hospitals-to-face-dementia-care-scrutiny.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/06/116948/hospitals-to-face-dementia-care-scrutiny.htmlThe Scottish government has vowed to improve hospital care for dementia patients by increasing scrutiny, in its first key announcement on older people's care since the country's election. Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116934/landlords-set-to-spurn-care-home-provider-southern-cross.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116934/landlords-set-to-spurn-care-home-provider-southern-cross.htmlLandlords are set to reject Southern Cross's ultimatum of accepting a 30% rent cut, Community Care understands. Instead, rival care home operators are actively planning on taking over the running of the homes.Thu, 02 Jun 2011 17:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116926/no-dh-review-into-cqc-and-councils-over-panorama-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116926/no-dh-review-into-cqc-and-councils-over-panorama-case.htmlThere will be no government reviews of Care Quality Commission or safeguarding failings regarding the abuse of learning disabled people uncovered by Panorama this week.Thu, 02 Jun 2011 12:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116915/southern-cross-tells-landlords-to-accept-rent-cut-or-leave.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116915/southern-cross-tells-landlords-to-accept-rent-cut-or-leave.htmlTroubled care home operator Southern Cross has issued an ultimatum to its landlords to accept a four-month 30% cut in rental payments, in what commentators described as a "declaration of war". Wed, 01 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116922/cameron-clegg-and-miliband-told-to-avoid-political-care-fight.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116922/cameron-clegg-and-miliband-told-to-avoid-political-care-fight.htmlSocial care leaders have warned David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband to avoid political in-fighting and reach a consensus on the funding of long-term care when the Dilnot commission reports next month. Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116904/direct-payments-made-default-option-for-personal-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116904/direct-payments-made-default-option-for-personal-budgets.htmlPersonalisation implies that personal budgets should be tailored to the needs of the individual. But some councils appear to be restricting users to direct payments, finds Natalie Valios Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116910/councils-direct-payments-preference-driven-by-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116910/councils-direct-payments-preference-driven-by-cuts.htmlCouncils are pushing service users into taking direct payments on cost grounds, say social work leaders.Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116921/personalisation-skills-shortfall-afflicts-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116921/personalisation-skills-shortfall-afflicts-social-workers.htmlSocial workers are still not equipped with the skills to deliver person-centred care, with knowledge about personal assistants considerably lacking.Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116901/social-care-can-benefit-from-health-bill-delay-says-adass.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116901/social-care-can-benefit-from-health-bill-delay-says-adass.htmlSocial care can benefit from the likely delay in the government's health reforms, the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services' president, Peter Hay, has said. Fri, 27 May 2011 14:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116893/further-health-bill-delay-risks-confusion-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116893/further-health-bill-delay-risks-confusion-for-social-workers.htmlThe government's health legislation faces being further delayed until the autumn risking confusion for social workers re-registering next year if it puts back the abolition of the General Social Care Council. Thu, 26 May 2011 15:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116887/hospitals-slammed-for-poor-nutritional-care-of-elderly.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116887/hospitals-slammed-for-poor-nutritional-care-of-elderly.html"Unacceptable" failures by hospitals to meet older people's nutritional and dignity needs have been uncovered by the Care Quality Commission.Thu, 26 May 2011 00:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116868/social-workers-losing-faith-in-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116868/social-workers-losing-faith-in-personalisation.htmlSocial care professionals' support for personalisation has plummeted, Community Care's latest personalisation survey, commissioned by Unison has revealed. Unison's Helga Pile (pictured) said: "People still believe in personalisation, but it's increasingly difficult to make it happen." Wed, 25 May 2011 11:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116869/councils-dogged-by-slow-progress-on-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116869/councils-dogged-by-slow-progress-on-personalisation.htmlA significant minority of English councils have made slow progress on personalisation despite the three-year cash injection of £520m to drive it, say social care professionals. Wed, 25 May 2011 10:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/23/116861/many-councils-may-have-social-care-cuts-ruled-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/23/116861/many-councils-may-have-social-care-cuts-ruled-illegal.htmlMany councils could have their adult social care budgets ruled illegal on the back of a High Court judgement yesterday, the president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services has warned. Mon, 23 May 2011 09:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116853/research-scie-findings-on-adult-safeguarding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116853/research-scie-findings-on-adult-safeguarding.htmlPrevention, mediation and more staff traininig are the key messages from the latest Scie research on adult safeguarding Fri, 20 May 2011 13:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116839/historic-agreement-for-single-uk-college-of-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116839/historic-agreement-for-single-uk-college-of-social-work.htmlThe College of Social Work and their counterparts at BASW - the College of Social Work have agreed to work together to merge into a single, UK-wide organisation. Fran Fuller, chair of BASW, (pictured) said the agreement was in the "best interests of the profession". Fri, 20 May 2011 12:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116846/social-work-boss-rejects-expensive-health-social-care-merger.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116846/social-work-boss-rejects-expensive-health-social-care-merger.html"Expensive" structural integration of health and social care is not the solution to pressures on the system in Scotland, the Association of Directors of Social Work's incoming president has warned ministers in his inaugural speech. Fri, 20 May 2011 12:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116845/judge-slams-councils-consultation-over-critical-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116845/judge-slams-councils-consultation-over-critical-threshold.htmlA judge has slammed Birmingham Council for failing to consider how its bid to raise adult care eligibility thresholds to critical only would affect those with substantial needs. Fri, 20 May 2011 10:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116841/cc-live-labour-will-not-play-politics-with-dilnot-findings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116841/cc-live-labour-will-not-play-politics-with-dilnot-findings.htmlLabour will not "play politics" with the debate on the long-term funding of adult social care, shadow care services minister Emily Thornberry said yesterday.Thu, 19 May 2011 13:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116837/southern-cross-plunges-into-red-as-councils-slash-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116837/southern-cross-plunges-into-red-as-councils-slash-funding.htmlTroubled care home giant Southern Cross has plunged deeper into the red on the back of big cuts in admissions from local authority, half-year results published today show. However, chief executive Jamie Buchan (pictured) has said he is confident that the company can resolve its problems. Thu, 19 May 2011 09:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116835/cc-live-burstow-gets-tough-with-pcts-over-social-care-cash.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116835/cc-live-burstow-gets-tough-with-pcts-over-social-care-cash.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has delivered an ultimatum to primary care trusts that are hogging money intended for social care.Wed, 18 May 2011 14:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116828/dilnot-commission-told-to-reduce-means-testing-in-care-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116828/dilnot-commission-told-to-reduce-means-testing-in-care-system.htmlThe Dilnot Commission on care funding has heard an unequivocal call to reduce means-testing by increasing the £23,250 savings threshold before people have to start paying for care in England. Commission chair Andrew Dilnot (pictured) described the opposition to the threshold as "overwhelming".Wed, 18 May 2011 00:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116824/social-worker-of-the-year-2011-launched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116824/social-worker-of-the-year-2011-launched.htmlPractitioners throughout the UK will be able to celebrate their achievements by entering the revamped Social Worker of the Year Awards, to be launched at Community Care Live today. Wed, 18 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116820/cqc-accused-of-management-failure-as-inspections-fall.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116820/cqc-accused-of-management-failure-as-inspections-fall.htmlMartin Green, chief executive at the English Community Care Association (left) accused the Care Quality Commission of a 'massive failure in management' as inspections slump while inspectors numbers stay the sameMon, 16 May 2011 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116822/adult-safeguarding-boards-to-be-put-on-statutory-footing.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116822/adult-safeguarding-boards-to-be-put-on-statutory-footing.htmlAdult safeguarding boards will be made compulsory for councils and their partners by being put on a statutory footing, care services minister Paul Burstow (left) announced today. Mon, 16 May 2011 13:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116816/key-back-bench-tory-urges-full-health-and-social-care-merger.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116816/key-back-bench-tory-urges-full-health-and-social-care-merger.htmlFormer Tory health secretary Stephen Dorrell (left) called for provisions to fully integrate health and adult social care to be incorporated into the government's health reforms. Mon, 16 May 2011 09:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/13/116809/self-funders-assessment-rights-could-pressure-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/13/116809/self-funders-assessment-rights-could-pressure-social-workers.htmlProposals to strengthen self-funders' rights to an assessment and care plan could put pressure on social workers' caseloads and council budgets, experts have warned.Fri, 13 May 2011 10:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116795/dilnot-to-urge-overhaul-of-care-eligibility-frameworks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116795/dilnot-to-urge-overhaul-of-care-eligibility-frameworks.htmlEXCLUSIVE: The Dilnot commission on care funding will recommend an overhaul of the main eligibility frameworks for adult social care in order to end the postcode lottery for services, it has signalled. Thu, 12 May 2011 14:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116787/value-of-carers-outstrips-nhs-budget.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116787/value-of-carers-outstrips-nhs-budget.htmlCarers save the UK £119bn a year, more than the entire cost of the NHS in England, a study published today by Carers UK has found. Thu, 12 May 2011 01:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116778/service-users-should-get-direct-payments-for-residential-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116778/service-users-should-get-direct-payments-for-residential-care.htmlRestrictions on giving service users direct payments to buy long-term residential care should be abolished to increase choice and control, today's Law Commission report on the reform of adult social care law has proposed.Wed, 11 May 2011 16:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116779/law-review-backs-off-giving-social-workers-powers-of-entry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116779/law-review-backs-off-giving-social-workers-powers-of-entry.htmlThe Law Commission has failed to recommend giving social workers powers to enter people's homes to help investigate adult abuse, in its proposed reforms to adult care law.Wed, 11 May 2011 12:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116780/dont-let-jargon-ruin-law-commissions-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116780/dont-let-jargon-ruin-law-commissions-reforms.htmlLegal analyst Ed Mitchell gives his verdict on the Law Commission's proposals for the biggest shake-up in adult social care law in 60 years. Wed, 11 May 2011 12:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116782/sickness-benefit-test-failing-people-with-fluctuating-conditions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116782/sickness-benefit-test-failing-people-with-fluctuating-conditions.htmlCharities have demanded an overhaul of the test of eligibility for sickness benefit on the basis that it is failing people with fluctuating conditions. Wed, 11 May 2011 00:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116763/disabled-fear-pressure-to-die-if-assisted-suicide-is-legalised.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116763/disabled-fear-pressure-to-die-if-assisted-suicide-is-legalised.htmlVulnerable people would come under pressure to end their lives prematurely if assisted suicide were legalised, fear disabled people. Mon, 09 May 2011 11:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116757/princess-anne-warns-cuts-could-harm-multi-disciplinary-working.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116757/princess-anne-warns-cuts-could-harm-multi-disciplinary-working.htmlEXCLUSIVE: The Princess Royal (left) has voiced concerns that cuts in public services could harm multi-disciplinary working, undermining support for service users and carers. (pic: Rex features) Fri, 06 May 2011 16:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116756/jail-for-woman-who-posed-as-social-worker-to-con-the-elderly.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116756/jail-for-woman-who-posed-as-social-worker-to-con-the-elderly.htmlA woman who posed as a social worker and trainee warden to steal from vulnerable elderly people in their homes has been jailed. (pic: Rex features)Fri, 06 May 2011 12:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116755/care-homes-must-give-more-information-to-potential-customers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116755/care-homes-must-give-more-information-to-potential-customers.htmlCare homes must do more to give their customers information about their rights and costs, a report for the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has demanded. Fri, 06 May 2011 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116742/care-home-residents-still-denied-human-rights-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116742/care-home-residents-still-denied-human-rights-protection.htmlResidents of independent care homes are not being fully protected from abuses despite legislation brought in three years ago to uphold their human rights, campaigners have warned. Wed, 04 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/114906/scotland-and-wales-look-to-register-domiciliary-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/114906/scotland-and-wales-look-to-register-domiciliary-workers.html National regulators in Scotland and Wales want to start registering domiciliary care workers as soon as possible to raise standards and ensure the safety...Tue, 03 May 2011 16:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/116584/cqc-to-outsource-new-care-ratings-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/116584/cqc-to-outsource-new-care-ratings-system.htmlThe Care Quality Commission is to outsource delivery of its new care ratings system to several accreditation bodies to give providers a choice of schemes to measure themselves against, it said today. Tue, 03 May 2011 16:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/116741/care-quality-commission-visits-drop-by-70.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/116741/care-quality-commission-visits-drop-by-70.htmlAdult care providers have seen a 70% drop in inspections by the Care Quality Commission in the past year, a fall described as "frightening and unacceptable" by Gary FitzGerald (pictured), chief executive of Action on Elder Abuse, and prompting fears for the welfare of service users. Tue, 03 May 2011 16:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/28/116739/councils-sound-alarm-over-50-care-charge-cap.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/28/116739/councils-sound-alarm-over-50-care-charge-cap.htmlWelsh councils fear a new £50 cap on weekly community care charges will increase costs and demand for services, according to a new report. Thu, 28 Apr 2011 15:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/27/116731/scottish-parties-fight-for-carers-votes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/27/116731/scottish-parties-fight-for-carers-votes.htmlScotland's political parties are vying for the votes of carers by presenting manifestos targeted at them. Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116723/pickles-told-to-keep-social-care-duties-by-sector.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116723/pickles-told-to-keep-social-care-duties-by-sector.htmlSocial workers and sector leaders have told ministers to retain councils' duties to assess and provide social care, in response to a consultation - ordered by communities secretary Eric Pickles (pictured) - that proposed abolishing them.Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116721/scots-councils-slam-health-and-social-care-merger-plans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116721/scots-councils-slam-health-and-social-care-merger-plans.htmlLabour and Scottish National Party plans to merge health and social care would cost £300m and simply "change the badge on a social care worker's shirt", local government leaders have warned on the eve of the Scottish Parliament elections. Tue, 26 Apr 2011 10:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116717/adult-care-staff-cast-as-villains-due-to-cuts-says-adass-head.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116717/adult-care-staff-cast-as-villains-due-to-cuts-says-adass-head.htmlCouncil adult services officers are wrongly being made out to be the "villains of the piece" because of the cuts they are having to implement, a leading director warned today after his authority lost a key legal case. Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116716/judge-overturns-council-plan-to-raise-eligibility-to-critical.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116716/judge-overturns-council-plan-to-raise-eligibility-to-critical.htmlBirmingham Council's plan to raise eligibility thresholds to critical has been overturned after a judge ruled it unlawful. Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116715/cuts-leave-homelessness-schemes-more-reliant-on-volunteers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116715/cuts-leave-homelessness-schemes-more-reliant-on-volunteers.html Funding cuts are forcing homelessness projects to cut bed numbers and rely more on volunteers and part-time staff, research finds today. The annual...Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116709/free-social-workers-from-bureaucracy-says-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116709/free-social-workers-from-bureaucracy-says-inquiry.htmlSocial workers should be freed from bureaucratic assessment procedures to spend more time with adult service users to drive personalisation, a six-month inquiry by sector experts published today has found. Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/19/116705/abuse-and-poor-nutrition-uncovered-in-care-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/19/116705/abuse-and-poor-nutrition-uncovered-in-care-homes.htmlAbuse, a lack of cleanliness and poor nutrition have been uncovered in care homes by an undercover investigation by consumer group Which?. Tue, 19 Apr 2011 10:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116702/councils-to-make-1bn-cuts-to-adult-care-this-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116702/councils-to-make-1bn-cuts-to-adult-care-this-year.htmlAdult care departments in England have made cuts worth about £1bn this year to cope with rising demand and tight budget settlements from government.Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116699/dilnot-commission-to-end-postcode-lottery-for-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116699/dilnot-commission-to-end-postcode-lottery-for-adult-care.htmlThe Dilnot care funding commission will recommend an end to the postcode lottery for care by calling for the introduction of a national system of assessment and eligibility, its chair has signalled. Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/15/116690/charities-slam-government-plan-to-scrap-poverty-payments.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/15/116690/charities-slam-government-plan-to-scrap-poverty-payments.htmlFifteen charities have slammed the government's consultation on scrapping national poverty payments, accusing it of containing "no analysis" of the needs of vulnerable recipients who stand to be driven deeper into poverty. Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116680/welsh-labour-wants-charities-to-run-private-care-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116680/welsh-labour-wants-charities-to-run-private-care-services.htmlCharities could seize social care services in Wales from the private sector, under plans put forward by Welsh Labour today. Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116677/dilnot-commission-told-to-end-postcode-lottery-for-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116677/dilnot-commission-told-to-end-postcode-lottery-for-care.htmlThe Dilnot commission on adult care funding has been told to end the postcode lottery by proposing a national eligibility threshold for support.Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116676/lga-urges-talks-with-lansley-to-ensure-gps-help-vulnerable.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116676/lga-urges-talks-with-lansley-to-ensure-gps-help-vulnerable.htmlCouncil leaders have called for face-to-face talks with health secretary Andrew Lansley to answer local authority concerns about his NHS reforms and ensure they do not fail vulnerable groups. Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116673/social-work-assistants-asked-to-take-complex-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116673/social-work-assistants-asked-to-take-complex-cases.htmlSocial work assistants are being asked to take on more complex cases because of the cuts hitting councils, interim findings of a survey have suggested. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 12:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116670/adult-social-workers-to-be-freed-from-council-control.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116670/adult-social-workers-to-be-freed-from-council-control.htmlSocial workers in six councils have been promised more freedom to work with service users independently of local authorities by piloting social work practices for adult social care. "Our plans will free-up front line social workers to do what they do best: help people maintain their independence," said care services minister Paul Burstow (pictured). Wed, 13 Apr 2011 12:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/114261/importance-of-palliative-role-in-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/114261/importance-of-palliative-role-in-dementia.htmlHousing 21 has appointed a specialist palliative nurse to tackle the neglect of dementia patients' end-of-life needs. Vern Pitt finds she has personal reasons for making a success of her role Tue, 12 Apr 2011 16:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116664/chairman-of-leading-care-home-provider-resigns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116664/chairman-of-leading-care-home-provider-resigns.htmlThe chairman of ailing care provider Southern Cross Healthcare has resigned amid further pressure on its finances. Tue, 12 Apr 2011 11:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116659/personalisation-chief-councils-wrong-to-cull-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116659/personalisation-chief-councils-wrong-to-cull-social-workers.htmlCouncils are wrong to cull social workers in their drive to implement self-directed care, the joint head of a new sector-wide partnership to promote personalisation has warned.Tue, 12 Apr 2011 10:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116656/councils-that-fail-on-personalisation-face-intervention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116656/councils-that-fail-on-personalisation-face-intervention.htmlCouncils that fail to deliver on personalisation could face government or Care Quality Commission intervention if they refuse support from within the social care sector to improve. This warning came from Richard Jones (pictured), the outgoing president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services. Tue, 12 Apr 2011 08:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/11/116645/tenth-of-social-care-workers-paid-less-than-minimum-wage.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/11/116645/tenth-of-social-care-workers-paid-less-than-minimum-wage.htmlNearly one in 10 social care staff is paid below the national minimum wage, a report by the Low Pay Commission has shown. Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116651/councils-accused-of-flouting-guidance-on-care-charges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116651/councils-accused-of-flouting-guidance-on-care-charges.htmlCouncils are flouting government statutory guidance on the level of charges they can levy on disabled people for care services, campaigners have claimed. Fri, 08 Apr 2011 17:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116648/health-bill-delay-could-damage-long-term-care-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116648/health-bill-delay-could-damage-long-term-care-reform.htmlDelays to the government's health legislation could undermine the long-term reform of care funding, outgoing Association of Directors of Adult Social Services president Richard Jones (pictured) has warned. Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/07/116633/health-and-social-care-merger-at-heart-of-scots-election.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/07/116633/health-and-social-care-merger-at-heart-of-scots-election.htmlRadical plans to merge health and adult social care are at the heart of the Scottish election campaign, with all of the major parties putting forward proposals to bring the two services together. Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116629/adass-will-not-lobby-against-cuts-says-new-president.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116629/adass-will-not-lobby-against-cuts-says-new-president.htmlPeter Hay will not be lobbying the coalition government for a change in direction on cuts as he takes up the reins as president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services.Wed, 06 Apr 2011 11:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116613/what-does-the-future-hold-for-care-homes-for-elderly-people-in-the-uk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116613/what-does-the-future-hold-for-care-homes-for-elderly-people-in-the-uk.htmlCare homes are struggling to come to terms with fewer local authority contracts and politicians' preference for independent living. How can the sector respond, asks Vern Pitt Wed, 06 Apr 2011 10:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116628/ethnic-minorities-still-over-represented-in-mental-healthcare.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116628/ethnic-minorities-still-over-represented-in-mental-healthcare.htmlPeople from ethnic minorities remain disproportionately represented on mental health wards with no signs of this reducing, the Care Quality Commission revealed today. CQC chair Jo Williams (pictured) responded by calling for more collaboration between health and social care agencies.Wed, 06 Apr 2011 10:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116614/quality-of-care-homes-divides-frontline-and-managers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116614/quality-of-care-homes-divides-frontline-and-managers.htmlFrontline professionals have far more negative views of residential care than their managers, exclusive Community Care research has revealed.Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116612/reablement-must-be-personalised-if-it-is-to-improve.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116612/reablement-must-be-personalised-if-it-is-to-improve.htmlReablement services must be made more personalised to improve their effectiveness in promoting independence and clients' experience of them, consultants said today. Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116609/miliband-urges-cameron-to-ditch-reckless-nhs-overhaul.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116609/miliband-urges-cameron-to-ditch-reckless-nhs-overhaul.htmlLabour leader Ed Miliband has urged the government to withdraw its "reckless" NHS reforms amid speculation that ministers will offer concessions to allay concerns. Mon, 04 Apr 2011 10:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116605/opposition-forces-dh-to-reject-payment-by-results-scheme.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116605/opposition-forces-dh-to-reject-payment-by-results-scheme.htmlThe government has rejected a national payment by results scheme for adult social care after it faced unanimous opposition from sector leaders. Fri, 01 Apr 2011 16:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116596/one-in-seven-councils-raises-eligibility-bar-for-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116596/one-in-seven-councils-raises-eligibility-bar-for-adult-care.htmlOne in seven councils has increased its threshold for adult social care this year, leaving many older and disabled people facing reduced support, the Local Government Association revealed today.Fri, 01 Apr 2011 11:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116593/council-recruits-uks-first-social-work-dog.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116593/council-recruits-uks-first-social-work-dog.htmlA council has recruited the UK’s first social work dog. Fri, 01 Apr 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116592/adult-and-children-services-are-most-protected-by-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116592/adult-and-children-services-are-most-protected-by-councils.htmlMost councils say they are protecting children's and adults' services above all other services in the face of the 2011-12 budget cuts, a Local Government Association survey has shown. Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116590/simplifying-the-personal-budgets-process-for-older-people-and-adults-with-mental-health-issues.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116590/simplifying-the-personal-budgets-process-for-older-people-and-adults-with-mental-health-issues.htmlThe Social Care Institute for Excellence presents findings from research into supporting older people and adults with mental health problems using personal budgets Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116585/supreme-court-to-rule-on-councils-powers-to-cut-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116585/supreme-court-to-rule-on-councils-powers-to-cut-care.htmlCouncils' power to cut services on cost grounds without an assessment of needs could be overturned by the Supreme Court next week, after the right to an appeal was granted in a landmark case.Thu, 31 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116552/social-workers-may-gain-power-of-entry-in-adult-abuse-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116552/social-workers-may-gain-power-of-entry-in-adult-abuse-cases.htmlEXCLUSIVE A Supreme Court judge has backed giving social workers the power to enter the homes of people when adult abuse is suspected.Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116582/labour-plans-for-national-care-service-take-shape.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116582/labour-plans-for-national-care-service-take-shape.htmlLabour will go into the forthcoming Scottish elections pledging to create a National Care Service by 2015, integrating health and social care and underpinned by national quality standards. Thu, 31 Mar 2011 07:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116553/law-commission-reassures-over-future-of-adult-care-duties.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116553/law-commission-reassures-over-future-of-adult-care-duties.htmlAdults' entitlements to social care have been thrown a lifeline following communities secretary Eric Pickles' controversial decision to put all council care duties under review, Community Care has learned. Thu, 31 Mar 2011 00:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116554/quarter-of-social-care-users-hit-by-cuts-so-far.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116554/quarter-of-social-care-users-hit-by-cuts-so-far.htmlAlmost a quarter of adult care users or carers have had their services cut before the full impact of government reductions in council budgets starts being felt from 1 April onwards, leading charities have found. Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116573/anger-as-cqc-confirms-fee-hike-with-three-days-notice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116573/anger-as-cqc-confirms-fee-hike-with-three-days-notice.htmlAdult social care providers have lambasted the Care Quality Commission's decision to confirm a £6m hike in registration fees with just three days' notice.Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116570/5-fall-in-adults-receiving-council-funded-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116570/5-fall-in-adults-receiving-council-funded-social-care.htmlThe number of adults receiving council-funded care fell by 5% last year, it has been revealed, amid concerns about tightening eligibility criteria. Wed, 30 Mar 2011 11:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116560/550-councillors-demand-rethink-on-cuts-to-supporting-people.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116560/550-councillors-demand-rethink-on-cuts-to-supporting-people.htmlMore than 500 councillors in England have signed a letter urging all town halls to rethink cuts to programmes that provide housing-related support to vulnerable people. Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116549/hard-to-reach-groups-at-risk-of-poor-outcomes-under-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116549/hard-to-reach-groups-at-risk-of-poor-outcomes-under-personalisation.htmlThe coalition wants all users on personal budgets by 2013 but with older people and those with mental health problems left behind and resources drying up, the future of personalisation is in doubt. Jeremy Dunning reports Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116550/personal-budgets-pioneer-slams-coalitions-lack-of-targets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116550/personal-budgets-pioneer-slams-coalitions-lack-of-targets.htmlThe government has failed on personalisation due to budget cuts and the removal of targets for councils to make improvements, Simon Duffy (pictured), a pioneer of personal budgets has warned. Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116539/abuse-goes-unchallenged-in-name-of-partnership-working.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116539/abuse-goes-unchallenged-in-name-of-partnership-working.htmlPotential elder abuse can go unchecked by social workers because they fail to stand up to professionals in partner agencies. Angie Ash reports Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/25/116535/welsh-cap-care-charges-as-fees-for-users-go-up-in-england.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/25/116535/welsh-cap-care-charges-as-fees-for-users-go-up-in-england.htmlCommunity care charges will be capped at £50 a week from next month for service users in Wales, as their counterparts in England face mounting fees. Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116536/bridging-the-generation-gap-to-help-people-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116536/bridging-the-generation-gap-to-help-people-with-dementia.htmlNatalie Valios reports on how both young and old benefited from a project to improve the well-being of residents with dementia in a nursing home Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116534/voluntary-care-funding-model-slammed-by-clegg-ally.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116534/voluntary-care-funding-model-slammed-by-clegg-ally.htmlNick Clegg's right-hand man has expressed scepticism that a voluntary insurance system can solve the funding crisis blighting long-term care.Thu, 24 Mar 2011 15:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116517/vulnerable-people-at-risk-unless-council-gp-links-improved.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116517/vulnerable-people-at-risk-unless-council-gp-links-improved.htmlA King's Fund report published today raises significant questions about the Andrew Lansley's (pictured) Health and Social Care Bill and GPs’ readiness to take on a wider role, particularly in relation to vulnerable groups. Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116527/budget-pledge-to-cut-red-tape-facing-social-care-enterprises.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116527/budget-pledge-to-cut-red-tape-facing-social-care-enterprises.htmlThe government has vowed to axe the red tape that is hampering small social care providers and develop the telecare industry, as part of today's Budget announcement. Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116524/budget-boosts-big-society-but-no-let-up-in-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116524/budget-boosts-big-society-but-no-let-up-in-cuts.htmlChancellor George Osborne's Budget today boosted the Big Society, but there were no new duties on alcohol and no let up in the government's programme of cuts.Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116526/fictitious-care-home-fraud-duo-are-jailed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116526/fictitious-care-home-fraud-duo-are-jailed.htmlTwo people who invented a care home and defrauded the NHS out of more than £100,000 have been jailed. Wed, 23 Mar 2011 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116495/dementia-and-sex-the-last-taboo.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116495/dementia-and-sex-the-last-taboo.htmlHow should care home staff deal with intimate relationships, which may flourish despite the disapproval of some staff and relatives? Sally-Marie Bamford, who has recently completed research on this issue, reports Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116521/woe-for-families-as-nhs-staff-bypass-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116521/woe-for-families-as-nhs-staff-bypass-social-workers.htmlSocial workers are being bypassed by NHS staff when patients are discharged from hospital, putting "extreme pressure" on families, a report warns today.Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/22/116518/equality-watchdog-sounds-warning-over-curbs-to-its-powers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/22/116518/equality-watchdog-sounds-warning-over-curbs-to-its-powers.htmlPlans set out today to curb the powers of the Equalities and Human Rights Commission have raised concerns at the fairness watchdog.Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/22/116515/fall-in-council-income-puts-many-care-homes-in-financial-peril.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/22/116515/fall-in-council-income-puts-many-care-homes-in-financial-peril.htmlLarge numbers of care homes in the UK could face financial difficulty, it has been predicted.Tue, 22 Mar 2011 11:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/21/116507/troubled-care-giant-southern-cross-bolsters-top-team.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/21/116507/troubled-care-giant-southern-cross-bolsters-top-team.htmlAiling care home giant Southern Cross Healthcare has boosted its management team to try to turn around its financial fortunes and avoid going into administration.Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/19/116499/social-care-outsourcing-drive-bad-for-users-and-staff.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/19/116499/social-care-outsourcing-drive-bad-for-users-and-staff.htmlThe government's drive to outsource social care and other public services risks damaging service quality, weakening accountability and harming working conditions, a report has said. Sat, 19 Mar 2011 00:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116501/care-home-provider-will-not-go-into-administration.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116501/care-home-provider-will-not-go-into-administration.htmlAiling care home provider Southern Cross Healthcare is confident it can avoid going into administration as it holds talks with the landlords of its care homes in a bid to reduce rents. Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116492/ministers-bid-to-protect-residents-of-ailing-care-provider.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116492/ministers-bid-to-protect-residents-of-ailing-care-provider.htmlMinisters have intervened to protect the 31,000 residents of ailing care home provider Southern Cross Healthcare, after chief executive Jamie Buchan (pictured) admitted that it was no longer able to pay rents owed to the landlords who own its homes. Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116450/integrate-health-and-social-care-budgets-to-avoid-conflicts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116450/integrate-health-and-social-care-budgets-to-avoid-conflicts.htmlHealth and adult social care funding in England should be integrated nationally and locally to prevent bed blocking and conflicts over resources, a King's Fund report said today. Thu, 17 Mar 2011 10:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116453/self-neglect-cases-how-should-social-workers-intervene.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116453/self-neglect-cases-how-should-social-workers-intervene.htmlWith the law so unclear, professional intervention in cases of self-neglect can be fraught with difficulties. Yet, as Vern Pitt reports, the pressure on social workers to 'do something' is great Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116477/how-to-handle-media-pressure-in-cases-of-self-neglect.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116477/how-to-handle-media-pressure-in-cases-of-self-neglect.htmlSelf-neglect cases frequently end up on social workers' desks because other agencies do not know what to do with them, while the public and press expect action.Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116479/social-care-duties-cuts-will-be-fought-tooth-and-nail.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116479/social-care-duties-cuts-will-be-fought-tooth-and-nail.htmlGovernment attempts to curb council duties to support disabled people would be fought "tooth and nail", the architect of many of those duties has warned. Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/15/116471/number-of-liberty-safeguard-applications-varies-widely.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/15/116471/number-of-liberty-safeguard-applications-varies-widely.htmlThe number of deprivation of liberty safeguard applications for people lacking capacity varies widely between local authorities, two reports show.Tue, 15 Mar 2011 20:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/15/116465/nhs-reforms-put-dementia-care-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/15/116465/nhs-reforms-put-dementia-care-at-risk.htmlThe government's NHS overhaul could put dementia care at risk because of gaps in GPs' knowledge about the condition, a report warned today.Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116458/councils-covertly-changing-adult-care-eligibility-levels.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116458/councils-covertly-changing-adult-care-eligibility-levels.htmlCouncils are operating tighter eligibility thresholds for adult care than they claim publicly in order to manage cuts, Ian Anderson (left), director of community services for Isle of Wight Council, has claimedMon, 14 Mar 2011 13:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116447/dementia-patients-failed-by-hospitals-finds-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116447/dementia-patients-failed-by-hospitals-finds-inquiry.htmlWelsh hospitals are failing to meet the needs of dementia patients because of unsuitable environments, inadequate staff training and a lack of stimulation for sufferers. Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/12/116440/one-year-on-from-the-dementia-declaration-what-progress-has-been-made.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/12/116440/one-year-on-from-the-dementia-declaration-what-progress-has-been-made.htmlCommunity Care's Dementia Declaration campaign called for the ­condition to be made a political priority. The coalition has done this but the sector is pressing for more progress, finds Mithran Samuel Sat, 12 Mar 2011 15:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116448/abolition-of-social-care-duties-would-be-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116448/abolition-of-social-care-duties-would-be-illegal.htmlAbolishing councils' legal duties to provide social care would breach human rights law, a lawyer has warned after communities secretary Eric Pickles floated the idea. Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116445/social-care-sector-opposed-to-long-term-care-funding-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116445/social-care-sector-opposed-to-long-term-care-funding-plan.htmlSocial care leaders are staunchly opposed to a voluntary insurance solution to long-term care funding despite increasing evidence that this is what the commission on reforming the system will recommend. Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116441/mps-furious-over-pickles-social-care-duties-consultation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116441/mps-furious-over-pickles-social-care-duties-consultation.htmlMPs have condemned the government for consulting on the removal of statutory social care duties, branding the moves "terrifying" and "unthinkable". Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116434/government-could-abolish-all-council-social-care-duties.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116434/government-could-abolish-all-council-social-care-duties.htmlThe government will take social care "back to year zero" if it removes duties on councils to support service users, as part of the war on "barmy" rules declared by communities secretary Eric Pickles (pictured). Picture: Rex FeaturesThu, 10 Mar 2011 12:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116414/funding-cuts-lead-to-tidal-wave-of-job-and-service-losses.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116414/funding-cuts-lead-to-tidal-wave-of-job-and-service-losses.htmlCouncils throughout England are slashing services as a result of their budgets being cut. Jeremy Dunning, Kirsty McGregor and Molly Garboden examine the impact on four authoritiesWed, 09 Mar 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116418/dementia-patients-receive-unlawful-hospital-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116418/dementia-patients-receive-unlawful-hospital-care.htmlHospitals are treating patients with dementia unlawfully by failing to apply safeguards for those who lack capacity to consent, Scotland's mental health watchdog said today. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116395/is-low-cost-budget-airline-style-social-care-workable.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116395/is-low-cost-budget-airline-style-social-care-workable.htmlAirlines and supermarkets show that cheap services can be provided without compromising too much on quality. Social care could take note, writes Brian Munday Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116405/free-personal-care-ruled-out-by-care-funding-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116405/free-personal-care-ruled-out-by-care-funding-chief.htmlState-funded free personal care for all has been ruled out by the commission tasked with reforming the care funding system, on the basis that it is unsustainable. Andrew Dilnot, chair of the Commission on Funding of Care and Support, revealed the decision in an interview with Community Care. Although it will not come as a surprise, it is the first time Dilnot has ruled out free personal care as an option. Mon, 07 Mar 2011 12:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116400/drop-disability-reforms-say-100-plus-social-care-experts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116400/drop-disability-reforms-say-100-plus-social-care-experts.htmlMore than 100 prominent social care academics and policy experts have urged the governments to drop its plans for welfare reform because they say the plans will penalise disabled people.Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/04/116397/council-ditches-plan-to-set-super-critical-care-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/04/116397/council-ditches-plan-to-set-super-critical-care-threshold.htmlBirmingham Council has ditched plans to set the country's highest adult care eligibility threshold following opposition from disability groups. Fri, 04 Mar 2011 17:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116369/services-must-adapt-for-older-people-from-ethnic-minorities.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116369/services-must-adapt-for-older-people-from-ethnic-minorities.htmlService providers have been advised to adapt older people's services to meet the needs of an increasingly ethnically diverse population after a study suggested attitudes to care are rapidly changing.Tue, 01 Mar 2011 14:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116365/half-a-million-to-live-with-undiagnosed-dementia-by-2021.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116365/half-a-million-to-live-with-undiagnosed-dementia-by-2021.htmlMore than half a million people will be living undiagnosed with dementia in the UK by 2021, with a postcode lottery for diagnosis.Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116364/self-funders-who-run-out-of-money-cost-councils-1bn.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116364/self-funders-who-run-out-of-money-cost-councils-1bn.htmlAlmost two-thirds of councils do not know how many self-funding care users exhaust their own resources and become reliant on state support.Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/25/116350/pct-mergers-threaten-joint-working-warn-social-care-leaders.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/25/116350/pct-mergers-threaten-joint-working-warn-social-care-leaders.htmlJoint health and social care arrangements are at risk from government plans to merge primary care trusts, sector leaders have warned in a letter to health secretary Andrew Lansley (pictured).Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/24/116338/uk-faces-shortage-of-100000-care-home-beds-report-warns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/24/116338/uk-faces-shortage-of-100000-care-home-beds-report-warns.htmlThe UK faces a 100,000 shortage in care home beds by 2020 because of council cuts and the ageing society, Bupa warned today. Thu, 24 Feb 2011 06:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116337/social-workers-angered-by-what-cuts-are-doing-to-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116337/social-workers-angered-by-what-cuts-are-doing-to-care.htmlMental health social workers are "angry" about job and service cuts that are undermining their ability to care and increasing workloads, a social work chief has said.Wed, 23 Feb 2011 20:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116306/self-funding-social-care-users-left-in-the-cold-by-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116306/self-funding-social-care-users-left-in-the-cold-by-councils.htmlSupport for self-funders is so patchy that many do not bother seeking help, resulting in bad choices of care. However, advice services such as the one provided by the Relatives and Residents Association in Essex (pictured) shows good support is possible. (Image: John Behets).Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116330/mental-health-trusts-to-make-15-job-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116330/mental-health-trusts-to-make-15-job-cuts.htmlMental health trusts are planning acute jobs cuts with some planning to shed 15% from their workforces, it was revealed today. Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116329/tool-to-identify-costly-social-care-users-promises-big-savings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116329/tool-to-identify-costly-social-care-users-promises-big-savings.htmlCouncils could make huge savings by identifying people at risk of requiring high-cost social care in future, through a new IT tool. Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/21/116313/homeshare-good-for-service-users-and-for-council-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/21/116313/homeshare-good-for-service-users-and-for-council-budgets.htmlHomeshare schemes can work for the mutual benefit of older and young people, reports Natalie ValiosMon, 21 Feb 2011 20:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/18/116305/welsh-councils-to-lose-social-care-powers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/18/116305/welsh-councils-to-lose-social-care-powers.htmlWelsh care providers have hailed plans to curb individual councils' role in social care as a "victory for common sense", after the Welsh government announced a 10-year plan for social services today. Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/17/116295/disability-benefits-slashed-in-welfare-reform-bill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/17/116295/disability-benefits-slashed-in-welfare-reform-bill.htmlDisabled people will be the big losers in the government's overhaul of the benefits system unveiled today in the Welfare Reform Bill. Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/16/116273/are-consultations-on-cuts-doomed-to-tokenism.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/16/116273/are-consultations-on-cuts-doomed-to-tokenism.htmlCampaigners say care users are not being given a say in cuts to their services, but councils risk legal action if they fail to consult properly on their plans. Vern Pitt reports Wed, 16 Feb 2011 07:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/14/116284/adult-care-providers-face-less-scrutiny-warns-adass.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/14/116284/adult-care-providers-face-less-scrutiny-warns-adass.htmlAdult care directors are seeking "urgent" talks with the Care Quality Commission over concerns that a new ratings system for providers will reduce scrutiny of services, to the detriment of users. Mon, 14 Feb 2011 21:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116277/registration-delays-at-cqc-impact-on-vulnerable-people.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116277/registration-delays-at-cqc-impact-on-vulnerable-people.htmlVulnerable people are waiting months for care services because of long delays in the Care Quality Commission's processing of registration applications from providers. This is leaving some care homes, such as Lee House in Wimbledon (pictured), with empty rooms. Fri, 11 Feb 2011 16:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116270/adult-care-staff-to-be-hived-off-to-council-trading-companies.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116270/adult-care-staff-to-be-hived-off-to-council-trading-companies.htmlAt least 20 councils are planning to hive off their adult social care services to local authority trading companies. (Pic: Rex features)Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/10/116252/social-care-management-cull-may-raise-costs-say-experts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/10/116252/social-care-management-cull-may-raise-costs-say-experts.htmlPlans to slash social care management posts at three London councils, including Westminster (pictured) by merging departments risk costing them more in the long-term, experts have warned. Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/09/116248/councils-slash-social-care-managers-to-save-35m.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/09/116248/councils-slash-social-care-managers-to-save-35m.htmlThree Tory-led London boroughs will slash management posts across children's and adults' services by creating single departments for both, as part of moves to save £35m. Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116243/care-providers-make-councils-integrated-offer.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116243/care-providers-make-councils-integrated-offer.htmlA partnership of providers is offering councils an integrated set of services, which they say will deliver better outcomes at lower costs. Mithran Samuel examines their proposalMon, 07 Feb 2011 16:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116237/ministers-risk-raising-false-hope-among-mentally-ill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116237/ministers-risk-raising-false-hope-among-mentally-ill.htmlMinisters risk raising false hopes among thousands of mentally ill people by pledging universal access to talking therapies without the means to enforce this, says an ex-adviser (Professor David Richards, pictured) sacked for speaking out over the issue.Mon, 07 Feb 2011 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116215/civil-service-cuts-put-mental-health-strategy-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116215/civil-service-cuts-put-mental-health-strategy-at-risk.htmlThe government has admitted it risks undermining its plans to help one million people recover from mental health problems because of massive cuts in civil service expertise. The plans were announced today by health secretary Andrew Lansley in the government's mental health strategy. Wed, 02 Feb 2011 17:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116213/council-faces-legal-threat-over-care-fees-cut-of-9.5.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116213/council-faces-legal-threat-over-care-fees-cut-of-9.5.htmlCare providers have threatened to take Wirral Council to court over its decision to reduce their fees by 9.5%, warning it will damage care.Wed, 02 Feb 2011 12:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116205/care-homes-set-to-raise-fees-after-landmark-judgement.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116205/care-homes-set-to-raise-fees-after-landmark-judgement.htmlCouncils will face more pressure to increase fees for care providers after a landmark legal ruling forced an authority to raise its rates. Picture: Rex FeaturesTue, 01 Feb 2011 11:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/27/116170/social-workers-need-more-training-in-talking-about-death.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/27/116170/social-workers-need-more-training-in-talking-about-death.htmlCouncils could save money from end-of-life care packages by giving social workers more training in talking to people nearing death, a study reveals (Pic: Alamy).Thu, 27 Jan 2011 09:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/26/116175/council-accused-of-misleading-public-over-care-home-closures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/26/116175/council-accused-of-misleading-public-over-care-home-closures.htmlKent Council has been reported to the Audit Commission, accused of misleading the public in a consultation on care home closures.Wed, 26 Jan 2011 11:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/25/116167/alzheimers-society-slams-dementia-care-in-the-home.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/25/116167/alzheimers-society-slams-dementia-care-in-the-home.htmlHalf of dementia sufferers living in the community are not receiving sufficient care, leading to premature hospital or residential care admissions, an Alzheimer's Society survey has found.Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116164/councils-press-on-with-home-care-charges-increase.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116164/councils-press-on-with-home-care-charges-increase.htmlCouncils are pushing ahead with plans to increase adult care charges by up to hundreds of pounds a week, sparking concern that consultations have proved tokenistic. (pic Alamy) Mon, 24 Jan 2011 14:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116160/nhs-market-reforms-pose-risk-to-services-warn-professionals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116160/nhs-market-reforms-pose-risk-to-services-warn-professionals.htmlSocial care professionals may be still trying to get their heads around the 367-page Health and Social Care Bill published last week, but their health colleagues appear to have already made up their minds about health secretary Andrew Lansley's plans. Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/23/116149/payment-by-results-enters-adult-social-care-field.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/23/116149/payment-by-results-enters-adult-social-care-field.htmlThe method of funding NHS hospitals may be extended to adult care. Gordon Carson examines payment by results' prospects Sun, 23 Jan 2011 10:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/113610/your-guide-to-meeting-minimum-standards-set-by-the-cqc.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/113610/your-guide-to-meeting-minimum-standards-set-by-the-cqc.htmlExperts decode what the Care Quality Commission's 275-page document on meeting new standards means for residential and domiciliary care providers and adult placements Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116136/councils-fall-short-in-response-to-adult-abuse-allegations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116136/councils-fall-short-in-response-to-adult-abuse-allegations.htmlCouncils are failing to respond adequately to allegations of abuse of vulnerable adults, the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW) warned today in its annual report. (Picture: Rex, model released) Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116134/plans-for-nhs-market-put-vulnerable-at-risk-warn-clinicians.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116134/plans-for-nhs-market-put-vulnerable-at-risk-warn-clinicians.htmlPlans to increase competition in the NHS risk harming the care of vulnerable patients, health professionals warned today as the government published its Health and Social Care Bill.Wed, 19 Jan 2011 16:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116102/robots-the-carers-of-the-future.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116102/robots-the-carers-of-the-future.htmlIn future, robots could be helping older people to stay independent, reducing care needs, finds Mithran SamuelWed, 19 Jan 2011 10:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116105/how-technology-might-help-councils-deal-with-austerity.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116105/how-technology-might-help-councils-deal-with-austerity.htmlInformation technology could help adult social care departments to combat the severe financial and demographic pressures they face. But it may be some time before savings are fully quantified and realised, finds Gordon Carson, who looks at three contrasting uses of computer power Wed, 19 Jan 2011 10:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116117/alzheimers-drugs-restrictions-to-be-lifted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116117/alzheimers-drugs-restrictions-to-be-lifted.htmlAlzheimer's campaigners claimed victory today after the NHS drugs watchdog proposed to overturn restrictions on treatments for the condition.Tue, 18 Jan 2011 14:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116120/self-funders-shun-social-services-because-of-stigma.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116120/self-funders-shun-social-services-because-of-stigma.htmlSelf-funders are shunning social services because of perceived stigma and those who do seek help have their low expectations repeatedly reinforced, a damning report concluded today.Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/17/116119/providers-promise-to-save-councils-money-and-boost-outcomes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/17/116119/providers-promise-to-save-councils-money-and-boost-outcomes.htmlCouncils can avoid slashing adult care services and improving user outcomes by commissioning a new integrated offer combining home care, telecare and home adaptations, claim the providers behind the initiative.Mon, 17 Jan 2011 14:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/17/116116/bed-blocking-concerns-spark-health-social-care-row.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/17/116116/bed-blocking-concerns-spark-health-social-care-row.htmlThe re-emergence of bed-blocking as an issue, amid growing difficulty devising support packages for those ready to leave hospital, has inevitably started a blame game between health and social care (Image: Rex). Mon, 17 Jan 2011 07:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/13/116096/vulnerable-groups-face-savage-housing-support-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/13/116096/vulnerable-groups-face-savage-housing-support-cuts.htmlSupporting People services are facing average cuts of 17% next year, hitting vulnerable groups such as mental health patients and homeless people (pictured, credit Rex, model released).Thu, 13 Jan 2011 11:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116088/ministers-justification-for-disability-benefit-cut-false.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116088/ministers-justification-for-disability-benefit-cut-false.htmlCharities have rebuffed the government's key justification for cutting up to £50 a week in mobility benefits for disabled care home residents and have called for the policy to be scrapped.Wed, 12 Jan 2011 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116079/voluntary-sector-cuts-threaten-big-society-vision.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116079/voluntary-sector-cuts-threaten-big-society-vision.htmlVoluntary social care organisations are being devastated by public spending cuts that threaten to undermine the government's Big Society agenda, research by Community Care reveals. (Picture: the Epilepsy Society's Chalfont Centre may see cuts)Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116085/stroke-survivors-face-postcode-lottery-in-community-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116085/stroke-survivors-face-postcode-lottery-in-community-care.html Stroke survivors face a postcode lottery in aftercare with big inconsistencies in access to rehabilitation between areas, the Care Quality Commission said...Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/10/116073/social-care-and-benefits-cuts-to-slash-incomes-for-disabled.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/10/116073/social-care-and-benefits-cuts-to-slash-incomes-for-disabled.htmlCuts to social care and benefits will see the living standards of the poorest half of disabled people in Norfolk drop by more than a third over the next four years, a study out today reveals (Image: Rex). Mon, 10 Jan 2011 11:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/06/116062/bed-blocking-not-our-fault-say-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/06/116062/bed-blocking-not-our-fault-say-councils.htmlSocial care leaders have rebuffed claims this week that bed-blocking is on the rise because of councils' failure to provide sufficient social care servicesThu, 06 Jan 2011 15:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/05/116050/vat-rise-will-hit-charity-social-care-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/05/116050/vat-rise-will-hit-charity-social-care-services.htmlToday's rise in VAT to 20% will cut the amount of social care that charities can deliver, Sue Ryder Care has warned.Wed, 05 Jan 2011 10:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116042/social-services-in-northern-ireland-face-major-job-losses.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116042/social-services-in-northern-ireland-face-major-job-losses.htmlAdult social care and children's services in Northern Ireland face significant job losses amid concern that a small growth in expenditure will be insufficient to meet rising demand.Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116036/joy-for-care-workers-as-migrant-cap-ruled-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116036/joy-for-care-workers-as-migrant-cap-ruled-illegal.htmlCare workers and bosses are this week celebrating a "huge victory" after the government's temporary immigration cap was ruled illegal and quashed on Friday. The High Court decision means many overseas care workers could have work permits reinstated after having had them removed. (Image from Rex) Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/17/116035/is-fair-access-to-care-services-dying.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/17/116035/is-fair-access-to-care-services-dying.htmlThe Fair Access to Care Services (FACS) guidance has formed the basis for deciding whether people are eligible for adult social care in England for the past seven years, but there are now concerns over whether it remains valid. Andrew Cozens, of the Local Government Association, and Ruth Cartwright, of the British Association of Social Workers, (pictured) agree there is a problem, but they differ on the extent of it.Fri, 17 Dec 2010 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/16/116032/dementia-training-lacking-in-most-hospitals-study-shows.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/16/116032/dementia-training-lacking-in-most-hospitals-study-shows.htmlJust 5% of hospitals in England and Wales require staff to undertake any specialist dementia training, research by the Royal College of Psychiatrists shows.Thu, 16 Dec 2010 12:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116025/nhs-overhaul-to-include-more-social-care-joint-working.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116025/nhs-overhaul-to-include-more-social-care-joint-working.htmlThe government will press ahead with its overhaul of the NHS but has responded to concerns that it will disrupt joint working between health and social care by strengthening proposed partnership arrangements.Wed, 15 Dec 2010 19:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116029/primary-care-trusts-to-be-merged-ahead-of-abolition.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116029/primary-care-trusts-to-be-merged-ahead-of-abolition.htmlPrimary care trusts will be merged into "clusters" next year ahead of their abolition in 2013, the government announced today.Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116023/christmas-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116023/christmas-with-dementia.htmlChristmas is a challenging time for family carers of people with dementia, but there are things that they, social workers and care services can do to ease the trauma of the festive period, says specialist nurse Madeline Armstrong.Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116006/fears-for-social-care-as-government-cuts-budgets-by-up-to-9.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116006/fears-for-social-care-as-government-cuts-budgets-by-up-to-9.htmlCouncils in England will lose an average of 4.4% in revenue next year due to Whitehall cuts, the government has announced, leading to fears for the future of social work services. Communities secretary Eric Pickles (pictured) told MPs that no authority would see its spending power cut by more than 9%.Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116004/council-will-struggle-to-maintain-social-care-after-funding-cut.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116004/council-will-struggle-to-maintain-social-care-after-funding-cut.htmlEdinburgh Council will struggle to maintain its social care provision after being one of the worst hit by the Scottish government's local authorities settlement, the lead member for social care has warned.Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115974/council-bid-to-outsource-social-care-to-unified-health-trusts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115974/council-bid-to-outsource-social-care-to-unified-health-trusts.htmlSuffolk Council plans to integrate adults' and children's social care and health services into outsourced "trusts" as it radically reshapes services.Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115970/effect-of-benefit-reforms-on-disabled-people-unknown-says-minister.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115970/effect-of-benefit-reforms-on-disabled-people-unknown-says-minister.htmlMinister for disabled people, Maria Miller, has said she does not know how many disabled people will be affected by government plans to reform disability living allowance (DLA), or how much the changes will cost.Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115971/thousands-more-to-face-50-a-week-disability-benefit-cut.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115971/thousands-more-to-face-50-a-week-disability-benefit-cut.htmlAn additional 20,000 disabled people in residential care are set to lose benefits worth up to £50 a week, according to revised government estimates. Picture: Fotex/Rex Wed, 08 Dec 2010 10:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115956/wheelchair-users-may-miss-out-in-benefits-shake-up.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115956/wheelchair-users-may-miss-out-in-benefits-shake-up.htmlDisability living allowance will be scrapped and replaced by a benefit with tighter eligibility criteria, under government plans announced today. (Picture: Rex)Wed, 08 Dec 2010 09:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115969/ken-clarkes-reforms-to-divert-young-and-mentally-ill-from-jail.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115969/ken-clarkes-reforms-to-divert-young-and-mentally-ill-from-jail.htmlThe government will divert more offenders with mental health or drug problems into treatment and test giving councils responsibility for youth custody in order to reduce jail numbers, under plans announced by justice secretary Ken Clarke today. Tue, 07 Dec 2010 21:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115968/charities-confidence-hits-record-low-as-cuts-loom.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115968/charities-confidence-hits-record-low-as-cuts-loom.htmlImpending public spending cuts have left charity leaders' confidence in their financial future at a record low, according to a survey published today by sector body the National Council for Voluntary Organisations.Tue, 07 Dec 2010 14:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115947/are-day-centres-outdated-in-the-personalisation-era.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115947/are-day-centres-outdated-in-the-personalisation-era.htmlThe closure of council-run day centres attracts much negative press but, as Vern Pitt reports, the personalisation era is allowing other organisations to step in and provide support Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/06/115963/charities-urge-reversal-of-funding-cut-for-homeless-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/06/115963/charities-urge-reversal-of-funding-cut-for-homeless-services.htmlHomelessness charities are urging pan-capital organisation London Councils to reverse its decision to end funding for 28 services for single homeless people. Mon, 06 Dec 2010 21:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/06/115959/national-eligibility-threshold-proposed-for-welsh-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/06/115959/national-eligibility-threshold-proposed-for-welsh-adult-care.htmlProposals to establish a country-wide eligibility threshold in Wales have been heralded as a means of ending the postcode lottery for adult social care.Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115948/councils-eye-birminghams-super-critical-care-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115948/councils-eye-birminghams-super-critical-care-threshold.htmlMany more councils could move to a super-critical eligibility threshold for care, following Birmingham Council's proposal to do so, according to sector heads.Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115946/103-year-old-service-user-and-carer-gains-personal-budget.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115946/103-year-old-service-user-and-carer-gains-personal-budget.htmlLocum Lorraine Smith has helped add another dimension to Frank Whipple's life by introducing him to personal budgets - at the age of 103. Amy Taylor reports Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115944/outsourced-social-workers-could-become-care-user-advocates.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115944/outsourced-social-workers-could-become-care-user-advocates.htmlPlans to outsource adult social workers from councils to social enterprises could enable practitioners to become user advocates, rather than gatekeepers of careFri, 03 Dec 2010 14:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115941/carers-missing-out-on-840m-in-unclaimed-benefits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115941/carers-missing-out-on-840m-in-unclaimed-benefits.htmlCarers are missing out on over £840m in benefits each year, Carers UK revealed today. On the annual Carers Rights Day, the charity said that about 300,000 people entitled to carer's allowance were missing out on the benefit. "We hear from families who are simply not told about the support that is there for them," said Carers UK chief executive Imelda Redmond (pictured). Fri, 03 Dec 2010 12:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115935/social-care-staff-battle-through-snow-to-reach-clients.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115935/social-care-staff-battle-through-snow-to-reach-clients.htmlSocial care staff have been battling snow and ice to provide services to frail and vulnerable people.Thu, 02 Dec 2010 15:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115939/storm-of-protest-greets-birminghams-super-critical-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115939/storm-of-protest-greets-birminghams-super-critical-threshold.htmlBirmingham Council's proposals to move to a "super-critical" eligibility threshold has been slammed as cruel, possibly illegal and an attack on the poor and vulnerable.Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115931/council-to-outsource-social-workers-and-set-tightest-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115931/council-to-outsource-social-workers-and-set-tightest-threshold.htmlBirmingham Council would outsource all its adult social workers to a social enterprise and set the country's tightest eligibility threshold for care, under cost-cutting plans announced yesterday. (Pic: Rex Features)Wed, 01 Dec 2010 21:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115928/social-care-staff-urged-to-shape-future-adult-care-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115928/social-care-staff-urged-to-shape-future-adult-care-funding.htmlSocial care staff and others have been asked to have their say on how the care funding system in England should be reformed, as the Commission on Funding Care and Support launched a call for evidence today.Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/30/115915/review-of-adult-care-calls-for-all-wales-eligibility-criteria.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/30/115915/review-of-adult-care-calls-for-all-wales-eligibility-criteria.htmlWales should create national eligibility criteria for adult care services to end the postcode lottery for service users, a major review has concluded. (Picture: Welsh Assembly building, Millenium Centre, Pierhead building, Cardiff. Rex) Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115893/nursing-home-faces-legal-action-after-cqc-finds-failings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115893/nursing-home-faces-legal-action-after-cqc-finds-failings.htmlA Bristol nursing home has suspended admissions and is facing legal action after inspectors found vulnerable residents were living in faeces-stained bedrooms and having their needs ignored, and staff were poorly trained and over-stretched. Fri, 26 Nov 2010 14:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115908/london-councils-undermines-claim-of-extra-2bn-for-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115908/london-councils-undermines-claim-of-extra-2bn-for-adult-care.htmlGovernment claims that it is providing an additional £2.1bn a year to fund adult social care from 2011-15 have been further...Fri, 26 Nov 2010 13:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115900/person-centred-reviews-for-older-people-in-care-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115900/person-centred-reviews-for-older-people-in-care-homes.htmlPerson-centred reviews are the norm in learning disability services, but older people can now benefit from an approach that bases their care on what they want, finds Natalie Valios Fri, 26 Nov 2010 12:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115892/watchdog-to-probe-equality-impact-of-spending-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115892/watchdog-to-probe-equality-impact-of-spending-review.htmlThe equality watchdog has said it will examine the impact of the government's spending review on disabled people, women and minority ethnic communities. Fri, 26 Nov 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115889/government-pledges-6m-to-help-gps-identify-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115889/government-pledges-6m-to-help-gps-identify-carers.htmlGPs will get £6m worth of training over the next four years to help them identify carers earlier and tackle their health needs, the government has announced today. Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115890/fears-for-social-work-role-as-councils-take-over-poverty-fund.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115890/fears-for-social-work-role-as-councils-take-over-poverty-fund.htmlThe government is planning to hand councils responsibility for Social Fund poverty grants designed help people live independently. The move has prompted concerns about social workers' role from BASW's Ruth Cartwright (pictured) and other sector heads. Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115873/councils-improve-for-eighth-year-running-in-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115873/councils-improve-for-eighth-year-running-in-adult-care.htmlCouncil performance in adult social care improved for the eighth year running in the final annual performance assessment for England, published today. Care Quality Commission chief executive Cynthia Bower praised the results but said councils need to strive to improve further.Thu, 25 Nov 2010 10:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/24/115869/dismissing-pas-could-leave-users-liable-for-large-payouts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/24/115869/dismissing-pas-could-leave-users-liable-for-large-payouts.htmlService users who lose financial support from councils may be liable to substantial redundancy payments if they dismiss their personal assistants, an insurance company has warned. (Picture credit: Rex)Wed, 24 Nov 2010 11:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115874/scots-set-out-10-year-plan-to-personalise-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115874/scots-set-out-10-year-plan-to-personalise-care.htmlThe Scottish government today laid out a 10-year plan to personalise the country's adult social care and support services through self-directed support.Tue, 23 Nov 2010 13:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115871/poor-services-have-had-performance-records-wiped-admits-cqc.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115871/poor-services-have-had-performance-records-wiped-admits-cqc.htmlPoorly rated services have had their performance records wiped from the Care Quality Commission's website after re-registering with the regulator after changing small details such as their company name, it has admitted.Tue, 23 Nov 2010 11:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/22/115864/doubts-over-viability-of-new-adult-care-inspection-regime.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/22/115864/doubts-over-viability-of-new-adult-care-inspection-regime.htmlGovernment plans to overhaul the performance assessment of adult social care in England could be endangered by under-resourcing and a lack of expertise, sector heads have warned.Mon, 22 Nov 2010 20:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115844/legal-aid-cuts-will-harm-vulnerable-warn-campaigners.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115844/legal-aid-cuts-will-harm-vulnerable-warn-campaigners.htmlCampaigners have warned that vulnerable people will suffer from government plans to remove legal aid from many social welfare cases. Thu, 18 Nov 2010 12:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115843/scots-and-welsh-cuts-aim-to-protect-social-care-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115843/scots-and-welsh-cuts-aim-to-protect-social-care-services.htmlThe Scottish and Welsh governments have sought to protect social care from swingeing cuts in draft budgets that would see councils in the two countries face smaller reductions than counterparts in England.Thu, 18 Nov 2010 11:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115836/government-drops-duty-on-councils-to-back-economic-equality.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115836/government-drops-duty-on-councils-to-back-economic-equality.htmlThe government has ditched a duty on public bodies to take into account socio-economic inequalities when designing policies.Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115834/cuts-will-damage-personal-budget-roll-out-warn-charities.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115834/cuts-will-damage-personal-budget-roll-out-warn-charities.htmlThe government's roll-out of personal budgets could be scuppered by cuts, a lack of support for users and the collapse of traditional services.Wed, 17 Nov 2010 13:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115829/short-breaks-for-carers-boosted-by-400m-in-extra-funds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115829/short-breaks-for-carers-boosted-by-400m-in-extra-funds.htmlShort breaks for carers in England have been boosted by an extra £400m over the next four years. Announcing the funding today, care services minister Paul Burstow said he wanted to see carers determine how the funding was used through direct payments. Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115826/service-user-budget-holders-could-be-priced-out-of-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115826/service-user-budget-holders-could-be-priced-out-of-services.htmlPersonal budget holders could have their choice and control "critically undermined" by being priced out of the services that they want to access, according to a report by think tank Demos.Tue, 16 Nov 2010 11:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115821/ministers-urge-councils-to-outsource-more.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115821/ministers-urge-councils-to-outsource-more.htmlMinisters have told councils to protect the frontline from spending cuts by outsourcing more services, cutting care management costs and shifting resources out of residential care into the community. (Picture: home care provision; credit Rex) Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115820/payment-by-results-could-be-introduced-in-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115820/payment-by-results-could-be-introduced-in-adult-care.htmlPayment by results could be introduced to offer incentives for adult care providers to improve, the government said this week.Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/12/115812/the-role-of-private-insurance-in-the-future-funding-of-long-term-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/12/115812/the-role-of-private-insurance-in-the-future-funding-of-long-term-care.htmlPrivate insurance is likely to figure in any reform of long-term care funding. Chris Horlick's firm is waiting, he tells Mithran Samuel Fri, 12 Nov 2010 17:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115776/home-care-providers-face-human-rights-probe.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115776/home-care-providers-face-human-rights-probe.htmlAn investigation starts today into the protection of human rights of people receiving home care. Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115775/thousands-of-care-home-residents-face-social-isolation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115775/thousands-of-care-home-residents-face-social-isolation.htmlUp to 40,000 older people living in care in England are at risk of social isolation, according to the Relatives & Residents Association (R&RA).Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115769/most-dementia-patients-die-in-care-homes-figures-show.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115769/most-dementia-patients-die-in-care-homes-figures-show.htmlDementia patients are nearly twice as likely to die in a care home than those without the disease, a study published today has found.Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115756/new-immigration-rules-will-lead-to-social-care-skills-crisis.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115756/new-immigration-rules-will-lead-to-social-care-skills-crisis.htmlThousands of overseas care workers could be forced out of the country due to a government crackdown on immigration, the English Community Care Association has warned. Tue, 09 Nov 2010 10:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115759/social-care-staff-shortages-set-to-worsen-with-immigration-cap.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115759/social-care-staff-shortages-set-to-worsen-with-immigration-cap.htmlA government crackdown on immigration is forcing overseas care workers out of the country, leaving the sector struggling with staff shortages. Mary-Louise Clews reports Tue, 09 Nov 2010 10:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115768/cqc-report-reveals-care-home-size-is-increasing.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115768/cqc-report-reveals-care-home-size-is-increasing.htmlThe average size of a care home is growing despite larger homes offering lower quality care, figures from the Care Quality Commission reveal.Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/08/115762/door-opened-for-cheaper-social-care-provision.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/08/115762/door-opened-for-cheaper-social-care-provision.htmlSocial care service users could find their services being cut as councils look for the cheapest way of meeting their needs, experts are warning.Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/08/115761/solent-councils-brace-themselves-for-the-impact-of-spending-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/08/115761/solent-councils-brace-themselves-for-the-impact-of-spending-cuts.htmlDespite council reassurances to protect frontline services while making cuts Jeremy Dunning finds that a major scaling back is underway in Portsmouth, Southampton and the Isle of Wight Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/07/115758/adass-urges-ministers-to-justify-no-need-for-care-cuts-claim.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/07/115758/adass-urges-ministers-to-justify-no-need-for-care-cuts-claim.htmlThe Association of Directors of Adult Social Services is seeking an urgent meeting with government over its claim that councils have no excuse to cut adult care services over the coming years.Sun, 07 Nov 2010 21:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/07/115757/councils-to-get-hands-on-most-of-nhs-1bn-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/07/115757/councils-to-get-hands-on-most-of-nhs-1bn-for-social-care.htmlCouncils will get their hands on the majority of £1bn in annual NHS funding for social care over the next four years, and will be able to use it to help prop up existing care services, health secretary Andrew Lansley has said.Sun, 07 Nov 2010 20:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115752/social-work-practices-could-fragment-services-warns-adass.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115752/social-work-practices-could-fragment-services-warns-adass.htmlAdult social work practices could fragment support for older and disabled people, Association of Directors of Adult Social Services president Richard Jones has warned.Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115743/lansley-backs-independent-practices-to-support-older-people.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115743/lansley-backs-independent-practices-to-support-older-people.htmlAdult social workers will be invited to form independent practices to support older and disabled people, health secretary Andrew Lansley has said today. Fri, 05 Nov 2010 14:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115745/long-term-care-funding-commission-calls-for-bold-solution.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115745/long-term-care-funding-commission-calls-for-bold-solution.htmlThe man tasked with reforming long-term care funding has called for the sector's help in reaching a "bold" solution that the government would be "deeply embarrassed" to oppose.Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115742/exclusive-lansley-to-tell-nhs-how-to-spend-social-care-cash.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115742/exclusive-lansley-to-tell-nhs-how-to-spend-social-care-cash.htmlThe government will tell primary care trusts how they should spend £1bn in funding on social care to prevent it disappearing into NHS budgets, health secretary Andrew Lansley will tell social care leaders tomorrow.Thu, 04 Nov 2010 18:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115738/burstow-defiant-over-funding-settlement-for-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115738/burstow-defiant-over-funding-settlement-for-adult-care.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has issued a staunch defence of the comprehensive spending review settlement for adult social careThu, 04 Nov 2010 16:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115734/labour-accuses-government-of-setting-up-councils-to-fail.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115734/labour-accuses-government-of-setting-up-councils-to-fail.htmlShadow health secretary John Healey, speaking at the National Children and Adult Services Conference, has accused the government of "setting up local government to fail" when it comes to social care.Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115737/future-course-of-personalisation-plotted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115737/future-course-of-personalisation-plotted.htmlAdult social workers' roles should be more focused on service users in the most need to further the personalisation agenda, social care leaders have said.Thu, 04 Nov 2010 11:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115698/managing-the-ageing-experience.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115698/managing-the-ageing-experience.html Managing the Ageing Experience - Learning From Older People ★★★★★ By Denise Tanner ISBN 9781861348852 (paperback) ISBN...Thu, 04 Nov 2010 10:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115726/burstow-scraps-annual-cqc-assessment-for-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115726/burstow-scraps-annual-cqc-assessment-for-councils.htmlCouncils will no longer be assessed annually on their adult social care performance by the Care Quality Commission from next year. Care services minister Paul Burstow made the announcement today at the National Children and Adult Services Conference in Manchester. Wed, 03 Nov 2010 22:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115719/quarter-of-a-million-older-people-set-to-lose-home-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115719/quarter-of-a-million-older-people-set-to-lose-home-care.htmlA quarter of a million older people in England could lose access to publicly funded home care next year on the back of the comprehensive spending review. (Picture credit: Alamy)Tue, 02 Nov 2010 11:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115716/councils-ordered-to-repay-reablement-charges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115716/councils-ordered-to-repay-reablement-charges.htmlCouncils in England must repay thousands of pounds in illegal reablement charges.Tue, 02 Nov 2010 10:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/01/115675/personal-budgets-pose-financial-risk-for-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/01/115675/personal-budgets-pose-financial-risk-for-councils.htmlPersonal budgets are unlikely to generate significant cost savings for local authorities and their implementation poses major financial challenges and risks, the Audit Commission warned today.Mon, 01 Nov 2010 12:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115709/social-care-sector-failing-older-people-with-sight-loss.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115709/social-care-sector-failing-older-people-with-sight-loss.htmlThe social care sector is failing to meet the needs of older people with sight loss because of a lack of staff training, poor co-ordination between agencies and insufficient emotional support, a study published today has found.Fri, 29 Oct 2010 16:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115650/personalisation-walsall-councils-advice-and-information-service.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115650/personalisation-walsall-councils-advice-and-information-service.htmlImproving advice and care for the public is key to personalisation and Walsall Council has made it a priority, finds Natalie Valios Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115702/council-risks-rift-with-mental-health-trust-over-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115702/council-risks-rift-with-mental-health-trust-over-cuts.htmlNorfolk Council is risking a rift with the county's mental health trust over its plans to cut £53m from adult care over the next three years.Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115701/good-practice-time-to-share-scheme-for-dementia-patients.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115701/good-practice-time-to-share-scheme-for-dementia-patients.htmlShared Lives schemes are increasingly being used to support people with dementia and they are proving cheaper than alternative forms of help, reports Natalie Valios Thu, 28 Oct 2010 16:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115697/council-admits-53m-cuts-are-risk-to-disabled-and-elderly.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115697/council-admits-53m-cuts-are-risk-to-disabled-and-elderly.htmlNorfolk Council has admitted it risks limiting disabled and older people's independence and quality of life through a planned £53m cut to adult social care over the next three years.Thu, 28 Oct 2010 14:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115689/kings-fund-warns-of-loss-of-momentum-on-end-of-life-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115689/kings-fund-warns-of-loss-of-momentum-on-end-of-life-care.htmlMomentum on improving end-of-life care may be lost because of the government's decision to delay a review of the issue until 2013, the King's Fund warned today in a report outlining good practice in the field.Thu, 28 Oct 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115681/care-funding-commission-sets-out-criteria-for-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115681/care-funding-commission-sets-out-criteria-for-reform.htmlThe future long-term care funding system must be easy for the public to understand, the commission charged with reforming it has said as it set out its criteria for change.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 17:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115677/what-the-spending-review-welfare-cuts-mean-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115677/what-the-spending-review-welfare-cuts-mean-for-social-care.htmlThe £7bn cuts in benefit spending announced in the comprehensive spending review, along with £11bn in welfare cuts from the Budget, will have significant implications for social care, says Gary Vaux.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115676/cqc-proposes-3.3m-hike-in-fees-for-care-providers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115676/cqc-proposes-3.3m-hike-in-fees-for-care-providers.htmlAdult care providers in England face a £3.3m hike in annual regulatory fees next year under proposals launched for consultation today by the Care Quality Commission.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 11:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115671/dementia-care-leaders-sign-pledge-to-improve-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115671/dementia-care-leaders-sign-pledge-to-improve-care.htmlDementia care leaders have produced a charter vowing to improve care across England over the next four years.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 09:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115661/unions-fear-privatisation-in-london-councils-services-merger.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115661/unions-fear-privatisation-in-london-councils-services-merger.htmlUnions are concerned that a move by three London councils to merge will see social workers becoming remote from families and that more services will be privatised. Fri, 22 Oct 2010 17:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115662/csr-housing-cuts-risk-deepening-homelessness-and-poverty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115662/csr-housing-cuts-risk-deepening-homelessness-and-poverty.htmlHomelessness and poverty will rise on the back of cuts to housing funding and benefits announced in this week's comprehensive spending review (CSR), sector leaders have warned. Fri, 22 Oct 2010 14:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115649/tory-councils-target-100m-saving-by-merging-all-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115649/tory-councils-target-100m-saving-by-merging-all-services.htmlThree Tory councils have announced plans to merge all their service to save up to £100m a year.Fri, 22 Oct 2010 10:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115632/paul-burstow-councils-have-no-excuse-to-cut-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115632/paul-burstow-councils-have-no-excuse-to-cut-adult-care.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has told councils that they have no excuse to cut adult social care despite yesterday's spending review delivering cuts of 28% to councils over the next four years.Thu, 21 Oct 2010 14:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115619/osborne-finds-2bn-to-help-social-care-weather-council-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115619/osborne-finds-2bn-to-help-social-care-weather-council-cuts.htmlAdult social care will receive an extra £2bn a year by 2014-15 to help the sector withstand massive cuts to council funding announced today by Chancellor George Osborne in the spending review.Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115608/social-care-faces-up-to-spending-review-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115608/social-care-faces-up-to-spending-review-cuts.htmlSocial care is facing its biggest funding cuts in decades as the government prepares to announce its comprehensive spending review at 12.30 today. (Pictured: chancellor George Osborne; credit: Rex)Wed, 20 Oct 2010 13:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115598/social-care-charities-must-adapt-to-survive-spending-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115598/social-care-charities-must-adapt-to-survive-spending-cuts.htmlSocial care charities will need to become less reliant on public funding or go into partnership with each other to win public contracts if they are to survive a "maelstrom" of government cuts and funding changes.Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115610/adult-care-may-escape-spending-review-axe.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115610/adult-care-may-escape-spending-review-axe.html Adult social care may escape the axe in the comprehensive spending review, it has emerged. Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115586/council-plans-to-axe-care-for-isolated-with-new-threshold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115586/council-plans-to-axe-care-for-isolated-with-new-threshold.htmlThurrock Council, Essex, would no longer meet the needs of adults "experiencing extreme isolation and distress" under plans to create a new 'upper substantial' eligibility band.Fri, 15 Oct 2010 16:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115584/working-age-disabled-adults-could-bear-brunt-of-care-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115584/working-age-disabled-adults-could-bear-brunt-of-care-cuts.htmlDisabled adults of working age could bear the brunt of forthcoming adult care cuts because of council efforts to equalise the value of care packages between older and younger users, research has found. (Picture credit: Rex Features)Fri, 15 Oct 2010 15:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115577/yjb-to-be-scrapped-in-quango-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115577/yjb-to-be-scrapped-in-quango-reform.htmlThe Youth Justice Board is to be scrapped as part of the government's "bonfire of the quangos" it was announced today, but the future of other social care public bodies remains uncertain. (Picture: Dominic's on flickr)Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115559/burstow-gives-qualified-backing-to-social-work-contract.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115559/burstow-gives-qualified-backing-to-social-work-contract.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has given a qualified backing to Community Care and Unison's campaign for fairer working conditions.Thu, 14 Oct 2010 09:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115572/access-to-talking-therapies-still-patchy-finds-mind.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115572/access-to-talking-therapies-still-patchy-finds-mind.htmlOne in 10 people referred for talking therapies is waiting more than two years for treatment, to the detriment of their mental health and job prospects, Mind reveals today.Wed, 13 Oct 2010 20:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115558/exclusive-burstow-announces-4.4m-boost-for-carers-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115558/exclusive-burstow-announces-4.4m-boost-for-carers-support.htmlIn an exclusive interview, care services minister Paul Burstow has revealed details of targeted measures to improve awareness of carers among frontline professionals and give charities such as Carers UK the means to provide training themselves. Wed, 13 Oct 2010 15:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115552/nhs-reform-threat-to-joint-social-care-and-health-working.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115552/nhs-reform-threat-to-joint-social-care-and-health-working.htmlThe government’s NHS reforms risk driving health and social care apart unless action is taken to promote joint commissioning, Association of Directors of Adult Social Services president Richard Jones has warned.Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115529/telehealth-technology-saves-money-study-finds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115529/telehealth-technology-saves-money-study-finds.htmlA project in Kent to assess the viability of telehealth technology has demonstrated that it has the potential to realise multi-million pound savings if rolled out across the UK.Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115528/john-healey-named-as-labours-shadow-health-secretary.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115528/john-healey-named-as-labours-shadow-health-secretary.htmlFormer housing minister John Healey has been named as the new shadow health secretary...Fri, 08 Oct 2010 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115520/cqc-1000-care-homes-lack-managers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115520/cqc-1000-care-homes-lack-managers.htmlNearly 1,000 care homes are operating without a registered manager according to figures published by the Care Quality Commission.Fri, 08 Oct 2010 00:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115538/service-cuts-and-welfare-reform-may-cue-storm-of-protest.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115538/service-cuts-and-welfare-reform-may-cue-storm-of-protest.htmlThe row over the government's decision to end child benefits for higher rate tax payers provides a taste of the storm to come once major spending cuts are announced on 20 October.Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115513/too-far-too-fast-kings-fund-urges-caution-on-health-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115513/too-far-too-fast-kings-fund-urges-caution-on-health-reforms.html The King's Fund has called on ministers to reconsider the speed and scale of new health reforms warning of "significant risks" at a time of increasing financial...Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115504/joint-social-care-and-health-commissioning-under-threat.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115504/joint-social-care-and-health-commissioning-under-threat.htmlThe chairman of the health select committee has warned that joint social care and health commissioning could be destabilised by the government's health reform plan.Wed, 06 Oct 2010 17:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115499/half-of-scottish-councils-only-help-people-with-high-needs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115499/half-of-scottish-councils-only-help-people-with-high-needs.htmlNearly half of all local authorities in Scotland only provide services for people with critical and substantial needs.Wed, 06 Oct 2010 14:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115492/doctors-body-warns-of-brain-drain-over-gp-commissioning.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115492/doctors-body-warns-of-brain-drain-over-gp-commissioning.html The government's health reform proposals are already resulting in a brain drain of management and commissioning expertise from the sector the Royal College...Tue, 05 Oct 2010 13:56:28 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115487/government-pledges-extra-70m-for-reablement-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115487/government-pledges-extra-70m-for-reablement-services.htmlThe government has pledged an extra £70m for reablement services in England over the next six months to support an estimated 35,000 people leaving hospital.Tue, 05 Oct 2010 13:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115495/cqc-reaches-20000-service-provider-registrations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115495/cqc-reaches-20000-service-provider-registrations.html A total of 20,000 adult social care services have registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Over the summer the CQC has been registering adult...Tue, 05 Oct 2010 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115463/better-care-for-people-living-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115463/better-care-for-people-living-with-dementia.htmlThe Social Care Institute for Excellence's Dementia Gateway , created with the Alzheimer's Society, is an online resource for carers and professionals living and working with people with dementia. It offers tips, tools and activities to help them meet their challenges Mon, 04 Oct 2010 16:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115479/adult-care-sector-warns-burstow-over-efficiencies.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115479/adult-care-sector-warns-burstow-over-efficiencies.htmlCare minister Paul Burstow does not deny that it will be difficult to achieve the efficiencies that chancellor George Osborne is looking for in adult social care services. His vision for adult care will map out how efficiencies can be delivered without affecting care. But some sector leaders are sceptical. Mon, 04 Oct 2010 10:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115475/council-cuts-will-damage-social-care-warn-doctors-leaders.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115475/council-cuts-will-damage-social-care-warn-doctors-leaders.htmlGovernment plans for closer working between health and social care could be damaged because of savage cuts to local council budgets, doctors' leaders are...Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115464/birmingham-council-grapples-with-personalisation-agenda-amid-cuts-threat.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115464/birmingham-council-grapples-with-personalisation-agenda-amid-cuts-threat.htmlBirmingham has a plan to transform services that has started making savings, but the forthcoming spending review will put it in jeopardy, report Vern Pitt and Mithran Samuel Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115442/age-uk-claims-elderly-will-lose-2200-of-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115442/age-uk-claims-elderly-will-lose-2200-of-services.htmlHouseholds with people aged over 75 will lose £2,200 worth of services per year by 2015 because of government spending cuts, according to research published today by Age UK. (Picture: Rex Features)Thu, 30 Sep 2010 13:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115447/spending-review-cuts-to-social-care-impossible-to-deliver.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115447/spending-review-cuts-to-social-care-impossible-to-deliver.htmlCouncils will find it impossible to deliver the cuts to adult social care expected in the coming spending review without a change in their statutory responsibilities, the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (led by Richard Jones, pictured) has warned.Thu, 30 Sep 2010 12:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115449/euro-rules-could-combat-care-cuts-says-mep.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115449/euro-rules-could-combat-care-cuts-says-mep.htmlMoves to set out a common European standard for care services could be used to fight cuts in social care provision, a leading Labour MEP has predicted.Thu, 30 Sep 2010 12:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115441/care-charity-mounts-legal-challenge-to-immigrant-cap.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115441/care-charity-mounts-legal-challenge-to-immigrant-cap.html The English Community Care Association has issued a legal challenge to the government's interim cap on non-European...Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/29/115438/cqc-takes-action-to-close-failing-care-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/29/115438/cqc-takes-action-to-close-failing-care-services.htmlForty two adult care services have closed in the past year following enforcement action by the Care Quality Commission for reasons including abuse, illegal migrant staff, poor management of medication and low levels of cleanliness.Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/28/115436/adass-hits-back-after-burstows-attack-on-council-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/28/115436/adass-hits-back-after-burstows-attack-on-council-cuts.htmlMinisterial statements on public spending have thrown councils into "turmoil", leading some to start cutting adult care services in advance of next month's comprehensive spending review (CSR).Tue, 28 Sep 2010 10:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/28/115435/care-minister-burstow-unveils-plan-to-improve-dementia-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/28/115435/care-minister-burstow-unveils-plan-to-improve-dementia-care.htmlDementia patients and their carers will be encouraged to hold councils and the NHS to account for their performance on dementia care as part of an action plan launched today by care services minister Paul Burstow.Tue, 28 Sep 2010 09:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/27/115425/labour-leader-ed-miliband-backs-national-care-service.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/27/115425/labour-leader-ed-miliband-backs-national-care-service.htmlLabour 's new leader Ed Miliband (left) backs the creation of a national care service to provide social care free at the point of need for older and disabled people. (pic credit: Rex Features)Mon, 27 Sep 2010 12:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115408/ilf-to-shut-and-cafcass-under-review-in-bonfire-of-quangos.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115408/ilf-to-shut-and-cafcass-under-review-in-bonfire-of-quangos.htmlThe Independent Living Fund will shut while the future of family courts body Cafcass is in doubt as part of a government cull of quangos, it has emerged. (Image: Dominic's on Flickr)Fri, 24 Sep 2010 16:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115418/more-councils-likely-to-follow-suffolk-in-outsourcing-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115418/more-councils-likely-to-follow-suffolk-in-outsourcing-services.htmlCouncils are likely to outsource more and more social care services to the private and voluntary sectors as massive spending cuts biteFri, 24 Sep 2010 16:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115413/social-workers-to-gain-key-role-in-any-assisted-suicide-law.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115413/social-workers-to-gain-key-role-in-any-assisted-suicide-law.htmlSocial workers will be integral to the assessment of mental capacity and risk to people choosing to end their life, if Scotland passes a bill to legalise assisted suicide. Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115414/the-fuse-is-lit-on-free-personal-care-in-scotland.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115414/the-fuse-is-lit-on-free-personal-care-in-scotland.htmlA timebomb of rising demand and funding cuts is putting Scotland's flagship care policy at risk, yet it still has many defenders, reports Jeremy Dunning Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115407/council-bids-to-outsource-nearly-all-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115407/council-bids-to-outsource-nearly-all-services.htmlSuffolk Council is planning to outsource nearly all its services to cut costs by 30%.Thu, 23 Sep 2010 11:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115383/carers-heading-towards-crisis-point.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115383/carers-heading-towards-crisis-point.htmlNearly half of carers (45%) are depressed about their financial position, a Princess Royal Trust for Carers (PRTC) study published today reveals. Pictured is Karen Holdsworth-Cannon and husband Mark who have faced poverty after he became ill.Thu, 23 Sep 2010 10:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/22/115395/paul-burstow-personal-budget-take-up-is-a-disgrace.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/22/115395/paul-burstow-personal-budget-take-up-is-a-disgrace.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has attacked councils over levels of personal budget take-up, though a social work blogger has challenged him on his comments.Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115400/burstow-slams-councils-for-cutting-care-before-spending-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115400/burstow-slams-councils-for-cutting-care-before-spending-review.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has criticised councils for slashing social care support before knowing the results of the public sector spending review, due next month.Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115392/reablement-charges-councils-could-face-huge-repayment-bill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115392/reablement-charges-councils-could-face-huge-repayment-bill.htmlCouncils could face bills of thousands of pounds in repayments after illegally charging for reablement services.Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115386/cleggs-council-finance-changes-could-benefit-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115386/cleggs-council-finance-changes-could-benefit-social-care.htmlSocial care could benefit from Nick Clegg's announcement today of changes to council finance. During his leader's speech to the Liberal Democrat conference, Clegg said he would give local authorities the freedom to borrow money against taxes raised by business rates to fund new developments. Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115391/reablement-charges-community-care-finds-serious-legal-failures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115391/reablement-charges-community-care-finds-serious-legal-failures.htmlIt is clear that some, and possibly most, of the reablement services for which councils are charging should in fact be provided free of chargeMon, 20 Sep 2010 17:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115390/reablement-charges-social-workers-should-blow-the-whistle.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115390/reablement-charges-social-workers-should-blow-the-whistle.htmlSocial workers and other frontline practitioners should blow the whistle on their councils' charges for reablement services, professional bodies have said.Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115345/council-charges-for-home-care-on-the-increase.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115345/council-charges-for-home-care-on-the-increase.htmlA growing number of councils in England are planning to increase charges for non-residential care. This is likely to deter users and lead to increased crisis care later. Vern Pitt reports Mon, 20 Sep 2010 15:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115393/one-in-five-councils-illegally-charge-for-reablement-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115393/one-in-five-councils-illegally-charge-for-reablement-services.htmlMore than one in five councils in England is illegally charging service users for reablement packages of care, research by Community Care has found. (Picture credit: Rex)Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115356/adult-social-care-cuts-hitting-half-of-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115356/adult-social-care-cuts-hitting-half-of-councils.htmlAdult social care cuts are hitting one in two English councils, a survey by charity Counsel and Care revealed today.Mon, 20 Sep 2010 08:28:33 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/17/115343/adult-care-at-risk-from-20bn-funding-gap-warn-council-heads.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/17/115343/adult-care-at-risk-from-20bn-funding-gap-warn-council-heads.htmlLocal authority leaders have warned that councils could struggle to maintain adult social care services in the face of a funding shortfall of up to £20bn a year by 2015. (Picture: Rex Features)Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/17/115349/good-practice-reducing-the-cost-of-expensive-residential-placements.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/17/115349/good-practice-reducing-the-cost-of-expensive-residential-placements.htmlHertfordshire Council has cut the costs of its residential placements in adult care while maintaining its level of service, reports Jeremy DunningFri, 17 Sep 2010 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/16/115341/managing-challenging-behaviour-in-dementia-sufferers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/16/115341/managing-challenging-behaviour-in-dementia-sufferers.htmlTwo practitioners, Walter Brennan and Alison Kingston Miles, advise on how social care professionals can handle challenging behaviour among people with dementia Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115321/councils-to-deny-social-care-support-to-all-but-most-needy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115321/councils-to-deny-social-care-support-to-all-but-most-needy.htmlEight in 10 councils in England will not meet adult service users' moderate care needs by next year on current trends, exclusive Community Care research reveals. (Pictured: Ann McFadden who faces losing support services, credit: UNP).Wed, 15 Sep 2010 09:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115327/cqc-streamlines-test-of-council-adult-care-performance.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115327/cqc-streamlines-test-of-council-adult-care-performance.htmlCouncils will be judged on fewer adult social care outcomes this year than previously under Care Quality Commission plans to streamline the annual assessment process.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 18:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115320/stress-for-social-workers-as-councils-raise-thresholds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115320/stress-for-social-workers-as-councils-raise-thresholds.htmlSocial workers face increasing stress as they struggle to ensure clients retain a service as councils tighten eligibility thresholds.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 17:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115319/raised-threshold-would-spell-end-of-befriending-lifeline.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115319/raised-threshold-would-spell-end-of-befriending-lifeline.htmlAnn McFadden, who has multiple sclerosis, is facing having an important social outlet removed under Bolton Council's plans to raise its eligibility threshold from moderate to substantial.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 17:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/10/115295/wales-should-have-own-social-care-laws-says-government.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/10/115295/wales-should-have-own-social-care-laws-says-government.htmlThe government has backed separate adult social care laws for England and Wales, to enable further divergence of the two countries' social care systems in the future.Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/09/115270/hippy-era-drug-users-pose-new-challenge-for-social-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/09/115270/hippy-era-drug-users-pose-new-challenge-for-social-services.htmlSocial services face a new challenge from rising numbers of ageing substance misusers who started taking drugs in the 1960s, research has found.Thu, 09 Sep 2010 09:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115261/one-in-six-social-workers-have-more-than-40-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115261/one-in-six-social-workers-have-more-than-40-cases.htmlSixteen per cent of social workers have more than 40 cases on the go, while nearly 90% say high case-loads are affecting their ability to practise good social work, a Community Care survey has revealed. (Picture: Rex Features, posed by model)Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/06/115256/elderly-people-fear-effect-of-cuts-on-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/06/115256/elderly-people-fear-effect-of-cuts-on-services.htmlElderly people fear that care services for the over-65s will be the first thing to be cut by councils struggling to balance their budgets.Mon, 06 Sep 2010 13:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/06/115248/adult-care-system-still-baffling-the-public.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/06/115248/adult-care-system-still-baffling-the-public.htmlWidespread public confusion remains over how the adult care system works, two years after councils in England were set personalisation targets to improve information and advice for citizens, research has found.Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/03/115244/practice-panel-an-older-person-with-a-drink-problem.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/03/115244/practice-panel-an-older-person-with-a-drink-problem.htmlSubstance misuse staff and a service user offer advice on a case involving a man on a downward spiral of alcohol abuse Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115176/a-watchful-eye-on-malnutrition.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115176/a-watchful-eye-on-malnutrition.htmlOlder people with social care support often need help to eat healthily. But is this best achieved by providing them with good advice and personal budgets or nutritious food, asks Vern Pitt Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115224/research-into-the-use-of-direct-payments-by-people-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115224/research-into-the-use-of-direct-payments-by-people-with-dementia.htmlResearch institute director Alison Petch reviews findings from Scotland on the use of direct payments by people with dementiaWed, 01 Sep 2010 17:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115219/councils-seek-to-abolish-maximum-care-charges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115219/councils-seek-to-abolish-maximum-care-charges.htmlTwo councils are among the latest authorities to issue proposals to raise charges for adult care users, as a wave of belt-tightening measures sweep authorities across England.Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115178/masterchef-interview-with-craig-dewhurst-care-cook-of-the-year-2010.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115178/masterchef-interview-with-craig-dewhurst-care-cook-of-the-year-2010.htmlCooking tasty, nutritious meals to a tight budget for older people in a care home is a challenge Craig Dewhurst relishes. Natalie Valios spoke to the award-winning chefWed, 01 Sep 2010 12:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115206/70m-extra-cost-of-hiring-agency-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115206/70m-extra-cost-of-hiring-agency-social-workers.htmlAgency social workers could be costing councils £70m a year more than if permanent staff were employed to perform the same roles, Community Care can reveal. (Pic credit: Alamy) Wed, 01 Sep 2010 09:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115177/older-and-disabled-people-face-wave-of-care-charge-rises.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115177/older-and-disabled-people-face-wave-of-care-charge-rises.htmlSteep rises in charges for non-residential care at three councils is sparking fears that a wave of increases could endanger access to care for older and disabled adults. Picture: Rex FeaturesFri, 27 Aug 2010 11:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/26/115165/wide-variation-in-end-of-life-care-investment.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/26/115165/wide-variation-in-end-of-life-care-investment.htmlInvestment in end-of-life care depends on the area where the service user lives, the latest Department of Health figures show.Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115152/minister-confident-that-vacancy-rate-will-fall.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115152/minister-confident-that-vacancy-rate-will-fall.htmlAction is being taken to address high vacancy rates and other problems in social work, children's minister Tim Loughton has insisted.Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115153/one-in-10-social-work-posts-vacant.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115153/one-in-10-social-work-posts-vacant.htmlOne in 10 social work posts are empty, Community Care has found. Our investigation shows that social worker vacancy rates have increased despite the millions of pounds that have been pumped into staff recruitment and reforming the profession. Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115160/budget-hits-poorest-families-hardest-says-ifs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115160/budget-hits-poorest-families-hardest-says-ifs.htmlLow income families with children will be hit hardest by the coalition government’s first Budget, the Institute for Fiscal Studies has claimed.Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115150/council-cleared-of-failure-to-help-frozen-couple.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115150/council-cleared-of-failure-to-help-frozen-couple.htmlA serious case review has cleared Northamptonshire Council of any failures in the case of an elderly couple suspected of freezing to death in their home in January.Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115148/service-users-unaffected-by-care-providers-going-bust.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115148/service-users-unaffected-by-care-providers-going-bust.htmlSocial care users are unlikely to be affected by rising private sector insolvencies, say experts.Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115139/adass-to-question-councils-slow-to-roll-out-personal-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115139/adass-to-question-councils-slow-to-roll-out-personal-budgets.htmlAdult social care chiefs are to ask some councils why they have so few service users on personal budgets.Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115108/care-providers-to-be-stuck-with-poor-ratings-until-may.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115108/care-providers-to-be-stuck-with-poor-ratings-until-may.htmlAdult care providers will be stuck with outdated ratings until at least May next year, following a decision by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to retain old information on its website. (Pic credit: Alamy)Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115116/care-funding-commission-chair-denies-government-pressure.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115116/care-funding-commission-chair-denies-government-pressure.htmlThe chair of the commission on the funding of long-term care, Andrew Dilnot, tells Jeremy Dunning that the government has not pressurised him to deliver the most politically convenient outcome Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/18/115099/tuc-100-unfair-cuts-in-coalitions-first-100-days.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/18/115099/tuc-100-unfair-cuts-in-coalitions-first-100-days.htmlThe Trades Union Congress has accused the coalition of making 100 "unfair" spending cuts in its first 100 days, hitting vulnerable groups.Wed, 18 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/17/115097/im-no-political-stooge-says-care-funding-commission-head.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/17/115097/im-no-political-stooge-says-care-funding-commission-head.htmlThe commission on adult care funding will be fully independent, its chair Andrew Dilnot (left) has insisted, despite the government blocking any recommendation to introduce a compulsory "death tax".Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115084/personal-budget-rates-double-but-big-gaps-between-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115084/personal-budget-rates-double-but-big-gaps-between-councils.htmlThe proportion of service users and carers on personal budgets in England has doubled in the past year but there are wide variations between councils, figures published today show.Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/11/115075/postcode-lottery-in-end-of-life-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/11/115075/postcode-lottery-in-end-of-life-care.htmlThe proportion of people who die in hospital varies hugely across England, figures published today reveal. See where people die in your area through Community Care's map of the figures.Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/10/115064/joint-working-between-health-and-social-care-in-herefordshire.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/10/115064/joint-working-between-health-and-social-care-in-herefordshire.htmlCouncils would be wise to look west when they draw up their plans to integrate health and social care services. As Jeremy Dunning reports, Herefordshire is already ahead of the game Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115070/council-set-to-cut-support-for-users-with-moderate-needs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115070/council-set-to-cut-support-for-users-with-moderate-needs.htmlPeople with moderate care needs would be excluded from support under plans to increase the eligibility threshold for care to substantial in Derbyshire. Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115068/thousands-die-alone-without-support-council-report-finds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115068/thousands-die-alone-without-support-council-report-finds.htmlThousands of people are dying alone without friends or family support, a report by the Local Government Association has found.Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115050/ministers-discussed-400m-cash-shift-from-nhs-to-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115050/ministers-discussed-400m-cash-shift-from-nhs-to-social-care.htmlFollowing a call from Association of Directors of Adult Social Services president Richard Jones (left) for NHS funding to be shunted into adult social care a report today suggests ministers have considered shifting £400m to protect adult social care from harmful cuts.Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115047/four-in-10-councils-miss-personalisation-target.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115047/four-in-10-councils-miss-personalisation-target.htmlFour in ten councils have missed a key target for the roll-out of personalisation, a survey has revealed.Thu, 05 Aug 2010 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/04/115044/older-tenants-need-better-incentives-to-move-finds-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/04/115044/older-tenants-need-better-incentives-to-move-finds-report.htmlOlder people living in under-occupied social housing must be given attractive alternatives if they are to make way for families in overcrowded accommodation or on waiting lists, a key report has said.Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/03/115038/the-blogger-who-is-charting-his-life-with-alzheimers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/03/115038/the-blogger-who-is-charting-his-life-with-alzheimers.htmlNorman McNamara has made the brave decision to keep on blogging about his Alzheimer's, and how he copes with it, for as long as he is capable of doing so. Natalie Valios reports Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115029/social-worker-banned-for-stealing-19k-from-disabled-client.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115029/social-worker-banned-for-stealing-19k-from-disabled-client.htmlA social worker who stole £19,000 from a severely disabled elderly service user has been struck off the social care register.Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115034/social-workers-imposed-direct-payments-on-users.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115034/social-workers-imposed-direct-payments-on-users.htmlSocial workers have foisted direct payments on to adult social care users, a study in Essex has found.Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115028/community-care-launches-daily-email-service.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115028/community-care-launches-daily-email-service.htmlCommunity Care has launched a free daily email service to help readers stay up to date with the latest news in social care. Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115014/councils-planning-for-40-adult-care-cuts-says-adass-head.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115014/councils-planning-for-40-adult-care-cuts-says-adass-head.htmlSome councils are considering cuts of up to 40% to adult services due to demographic pressures and expected government spending limits, Adass president Richard Jones (left), has said.Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115010/scottish-government-urged-to-protect-social-care-from-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115010/scottish-government-urged-to-protect-social-care-from-cuts.htmlThe Scottish government has been urged to ensure social care does not suffer from its pledge to protect NHS spending from cuts over the next four years.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115001/dh-shunts-50m-from-social-care-to-fund-cancer-drugs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115001/dh-shunts-50m-from-social-care-to-fund-cancer-drugs.htmlThe government has shunted £50m earmarked by Labour to finance personal care at home to increase access to cancer drugs.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115007/free-personal-care-here-to-stay-says-scottish-government.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115007/free-personal-care-here-to-stay-says-scottish-government.htmlThe Scottish government is insisting it will preserve its free personal care policy for older people - rejecting the recommendations of an independent review of public expenditure in the country.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115005/free-personal-care-hard-to-justify-finds-scottish-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115005/free-personal-care-hard-to-justify-finds-scottish-review.htmlFree personal care for older people in Scotland is "hard to justify", according to an independent review of public expenditure in the country.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114994/conservative-think-tank-urges-nhs-takeover-of-care-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114994/conservative-think-tank-urges-nhs-takeover-of-care-funding.htmlCouncils should lose responsibility to the NHS for long-term care funding to reduce costs, a think-tank close to the prime minister said today.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114983/gscc-to-be-scrapped.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114983/gscc-to-be-scrapped.htmlThe General Social Care Council is to be scrapped as part of a government review of quangos. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114989/role-of-the-health-professions-council-and-changes-to-quangos.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114989/role-of-the-health-professions-council-and-changes-to-quangos.htmlThe Health Professions Council regulates 15 health workforces and was set up in 2001.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114990/what-gscc-abolition-could-mean-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114990/what-gscc-abolition-could-mean-for-social-workers.htmlThe abolition of the General Social Care Council will have far-reaching implications for social care and social workers, including the cost of registration, regulation of professionals and training.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114988/adass-reorganises-to-meet-adult-care-policy-challenges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114988/adass-reorganises-to-meet-adult-care-policy-challenges.html The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services has reorganised itself to respond to the current policy and economic challenges facing adult social...Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/23/114960/care-funding-commission-must-not-forget-disabled.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/23/114960/care-funding-commission-must-not-forget-disabled.htmlThe commission set up this week to reform care funding must give equal weight to the needs of adults with lifelong conditions as older people, one of its...Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/23/114969/still-nothing-to-fear.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/23/114969/still-nothing-to-fear.htmlDisability minister Maria Miller tells Vern Pitt disabled people are a coalition priority despite astring of benefit cuts Fri, 23 Jul 2010 14:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114955/government-rules-out-death-tax-to-fund-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114955/government-rules-out-death-tax-to-fund-care.htmlThe government has ruled out a compulsory "death tax" to fund long-term care, despite saying the newly formed care funding commission can examine all options.Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114946/lansley-urges-quick-action-from-care-funding-commission.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114946/lansley-urges-quick-action-from-care-funding-commission.htmlThe commission established today to reform care funding will have to act quickly in setting out how its direction of travel, health secretary Andrew Lansley has made clear.Tue, 20 Jul 2010 21:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114943/who-are-the-members-of-the-care-funding-commission.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114943/who-are-the-members-of-the-care-funding-commission.htmlThe members of the government's Commission on the Funding of Care and Support, announced today, bring a diverse range of experience to the task of sorting out the future funding of adult social care in England.Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/19/114930/national-college-co-chairs-pledge-to-engage-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/19/114930/national-college-co-chairs-pledge-to-engage-social-workers.htmlEngaging social workers will be a major short-term challenge for the College of Social Work, according to its newly-appointed joint interim chairs Maurice Bates and Corinne May-Chahal (pictured)Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114929/health-white-paper-poses-questions-for-social-care-sector.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114929/health-white-paper-poses-questions-for-social-care-sector.htmlAlthough there are positives for social workers in the health White Paper, there remain many questions about power and accountability, says Richard Humphries of the King's Fund Fri, 16 Jul 2010 17:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114922/testing-a-councils-use-of-a-resource-allocation-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114922/testing-a-councils-use-of-a-resource-allocation-system.htmlEd Mitchell finds councils should retain descretion if using a resource allocation system to quantify a service user's care budget Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114919/white-paper-gps-will-need-to-buy-in-specialist-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114919/white-paper-gps-will-need-to-buy-in-specialist-support.htmlGPs will need to buy in expertise to meet the needs of vulnerable groups, NHS leaders admitted after plans to give family doctors responsibility for health commissioning sparked concerns from social care charities.Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114912/sector-concern-as-nhs-regulators-encroach-on-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114912/sector-concern-as-nhs-regulators-encroach-on-social-care.htmlGovernment plans to give healthcare monitoring bodies powers over social care have sparked concerns from sector head, including Ruth Cartwright, of the British Association of Social WorkersThu, 15 Jul 2010 15:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114873/end-of-life-care-oxfordshire-community-matron-scheme.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114873/end-of-life-care-oxfordshire-community-matron-scheme.htmlA community matron role funded by Sue Ryder Care and Community Health Oxfordshire is letting more people end their lives in familiar surroundings, writes Natalie Valios Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/14/114901/care-minister-burstow-rejects-council-job-cuts-claim.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/14/114901/care-minister-burstow-rejects-council-job-cuts-claim.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has rejected predictions from a former top civil servant of cuts of up to 25% to council adult social care staff numbers as a result of the government's austerity drive.Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114898/charities-say-gps-lack-expertise-to-commission-all-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114898/charities-say-gps-lack-expertise-to-commission-all-services.htmlGPs lack the expertise to commission care services, when it comes to some conditions, and their proposed new powers could lead to postcode lotteries, campaigners warn.Tue, 13 Jul 2010 20:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114899/burstow-pcts-scrapped-to-aid-health-and-social-care-links.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114899/burstow-pcts-scrapped-to-aid-health-and-social-care-links.htmlPrimary care trusts were no longer "fit for purpose" and had to go as the price to deliver integrated health and social care, according to care services minister Paul Burstow.Tue, 13 Jul 2010 13:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114896/councils-to-be-granted-powers-over-public-health.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114896/councils-to-be-granted-powers-over-public-health.htmlLocal authorities will be given statutory responsibility for bringing health and social care together under radical NHS reforms announced by health secretary Andrew Lansley today. (Picture credit Rex)Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114878/lansley-launches-review-of-end-of-life-care-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114878/lansley-launches-review-of-end-of-life-care-funding.html Health secretary Andrew Lansley today launched a review of palliative care funding that is designed to help more people die at home. The review will...Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:20:46 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/08/114872/how-befriending-services-can-aid-older-peoples-well-being.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/08/114872/how-befriending-services-can-aid-older-peoples-well-being.htmlMartin Knapp and Margaret Perkins look at the findings of research into the importance of preventive work with older people Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/08/114865/cqc-slammed-by-own-staff-as-survey-exposes-low-morale.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/08/114865/cqc-slammed-by-own-staff-as-survey-exposes-low-morale.htmlThe Care Quality Commission's management has been slammed by its own staff in an internal survey that found morale at the regulator was low. The CQC's chief executive, Cynthia Bower (pictured), has agreed to address concerns. Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/08/114854/smaller-care-providers-face-being-squeezed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/08/114854/smaller-care-providers-face-being-squeezed.htmlSmaller care providers risk being driven out of the older people's market because of rising costs and council cuts, a survey has found. Des Kelly (pictured) director of the National Care Forum has backed the findings.Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114821/paul-maynard-mp-life-with-cerebral-palsy-and-epilepsy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114821/paul-maynard-mp-life-with-cerebral-palsy-and-epilepsy.htmlConservative MP Paul Maynard talks to Jeremy Dunning about how he will influence policy on disability in parliament Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114842/call-for-dementia-services-to-raise-profile.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114842/call-for-dementia-services-to-raise-profile.htmlDementia services need a higher profile so that people know where to find support after a diagnosis, the Alzheimer's Society said today. Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114844/social-services-in-wales-fear-job-losses.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114844/social-services-in-wales-fear-job-losses.html Directors of social services in Wales are refusing to rule out job losses as they attempt to tackle the funding crisis hitting their departments. Back-office...Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:54:05 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114786/will-more-cash-for-research-help-lead-to-a-cure-for-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114786/will-more-cash-for-research-help-lead-to-a-cure-for-dementia.htmlWith the coalition government committed to boosting dementia research funding, Vern Pitt looks at where increased resources could make a difference Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114832/support-scheme-did-not-reach-enough-carers-burstow-claims.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114832/support-scheme-did-not-reach-enough-carers-burstow-claims.htmlGovernment cash for a leading carers' support scheme was halted because the programme was not reaching enough carers, it has emerged. Care services minister Paul Burstow (pictured) told MPs: "We were not getting value for money from the delivery." Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114841/spare-elderly-and-child-protection-from-cuts-survey.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114841/spare-elderly-and-child-protection-from-cuts-survey.htmlOnly 1% of the public believe social care for older people or child protection services should be cut to save public money, a Local Government Association survey has found.Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114824/care-charges-set-to-soar-for-users-in-warwickshire.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114824/care-charges-set-to-soar-for-users-in-warwickshire.htmlAdult care user charges at Warwickshire Council look set to rocket, sparking concerns that other authorities could follow suit.Thu, 01 Jul 2010 21:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114823/government-scraps-leading-carer-support-scheme.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114823/government-scraps-leading-carer-support-scheme.htmlThe government has today scrapped a multimillion pound support package for carers, Community Care has learned. It has pulled the plug on the Caring with Confidence programme (pictured, credit Michael Donald), worth £4.4m a year. Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114820/full-time-family-carer-roles-double-in-a-decade.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114820/full-time-family-carer-roles-double-in-a-decade.htmlThe proportion of people caring full-time for a loved-one has doubled in the past decade to one fifth of all carers, figures published today have shown.Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114817/care-home-owner-and-manager-neglected-residents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114817/care-home-owner-and-manager-neglected-residents.html The owner and manager of a care home have been found guilty of the neglect of vulnerable residents after leaving them underweight and with bed sores. Care...Wed, 30 Jun 2010 14:14:16 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114812/personalisation-may-force-day-centre-closures-in-liverpool.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114812/personalisation-may-force-day-centre-closures-in-liverpool.htmlCash-strapped Liverpool Council is set to shed 164 jobs and close nine day centres as part of major changes to adult care, driven by personalisation.Wed, 30 Jun 2010 09:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114815/care-workers-compete-in-bid-to-be-uks-top-care-worker.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114815/care-workers-compete-in-bid-to-be-uks-top-care-worker.htmlLast week 10 care workers displayed their case management skills before two judges in London in a bid to become the UK's top care worker. Kirsty McGregor reports Wed, 30 Jun 2010 09:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/28/114805/social-workers-must-make-end-of-life-care-their-business.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/28/114805/social-workers-must-make-end-of-life-care-their-business.htmlSocial workers do not see end-of-life care as relevant to them, according to experts at the government's National End of Life Care Programme.Mon, 28 Jun 2010 16:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114798/councils-must-transform-not-slash-services-to-meet-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114798/councils-must-transform-not-slash-services-to-meet-cuts.html Councils must transform social services through preventive measures rather than simply slash budgets if they are to shield vulnerable children, families...Fri, 25 Jun 2010 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114797/viability-of-care-homes-for-elderly-in-doubt.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114797/viability-of-care-homes-for-elderly-in-doubt.htmlCare homes across England will struggle to meet rises in the costs of care for older people, putting the number of care home beds at risk, figures published today reveal.Fri, 25 Jun 2010 15:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/24/114794/concerns-raised-over-wrongful-detentions-of-service-users.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/24/114794/concerns-raised-over-wrongful-detentions-of-service-users.htmlA mental health charity has raised concerns that people who lack mental capacity are being detained in care settings inappropriately. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 20:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/24/114785/mps-to-probe-long-term-care-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/24/114785/mps-to-probe-long-term-care-funding.htmlThe House of Commons' health select committee is to examine the funding of long-term care to help shape the government's plan to overhaul the system.Thu, 24 Jun 2010 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114780/social-care-budgets-could-be-slashed-by-a-third-say-experts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114780/social-care-budgets-could-be-slashed-by-a-third-say-experts.htmlSocial care budgets could be slashed by one-third over the next four years after yesterday's emergency Budget, public spending experts have warned.Wed, 23 Jun 2010 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114784/housing-benefit-cuts-risk-increases-to-homelessness.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114784/housing-benefit-cuts-risk-increases-to-homelessness.htmlPlans to cut housing benefit in yesterday's Budget risk increasing homelessness and demand for social services, experts have warned.Wed, 23 Jun 2010 07:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114775/unison-osborne-declaring-war-with-pay-freeze.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114775/unison-osborne-declaring-war-with-pay-freeze.htmlA two-year public sector pay freeze from 2011 proposed by chancellor George Osborne in today's emergency Budget speech is a "declaration of war", according to trade union Unison.Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114774/lowest-paid-public-sector-works-spared-pay-cut-in-budget.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114774/lowest-paid-public-sector-works-spared-pay-cut-in-budget.htmlThe lowest earning public sector workers will be spared a pay freeze, under plans announced by chancellor George Osborne in today's Budget.Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114758/essexs-social-care-health-and-housing-in-cash-saving-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114758/essexs-social-care-health-and-housing-in-cash-saving-plan.htmlFive councils and two primary care trusts in South Essex are to look at how to save money by combining their commissioning powers across social care, health and housing.Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114736/nearly-half-of-areas-miss-dementia-strategy-deadline.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114736/nearly-half-of-areas-miss-dementia-strategy-deadline.html Almost half of primary care trusts and council partnerships failed to meet a deadline to produce joint plans to implement the national dementia strategy,...Thu, 17 Jun 2010 16:44:55 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114731/burnham-nhs-funding-boost-will-mean-social-care-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114731/burnham-nhs-funding-boost-will-mean-social-care-cuts.htmlFormer health secretary Andy Burnham has urged the coalition to drop its pledge to increase NHS spending in real terms during this parliament to avoid substantial cuts to social care.Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114725/councils-already-cutting-social-care-to-hit-savings-target.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114725/councils-already-cutting-social-care-to-hit-savings-target.htmlCouncils are already planning to cut social care services to meet a government savings target of £1.1bn this year.Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/14/114696/can-health-and-social-care-really-work-together.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/14/114696/can-health-and-social-care-really-work-together.htmlA financial dispute seems to have killed off health and social care partnerships in Glasgow, but in next door East Renfrewshire integration is working well, finds Gordon Carson Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/14/114692/equality-commission-launches-disability-harassment-probe.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/14/114692/equality-commission-launches-disability-harassment-probe.htmlCouncils' record in tackling the harassment of disabled people will come under scrutiny in a major inquiry launched by the Equality and Human Rights Commission today.Mon, 14 Jun 2010 10:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/11/114700/liverpool-council-faces-11m-deficit-in-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/11/114700/liverpool-council-faces-11m-deficit-in-social-care.html Liverpool Council is facing an £11m overspend in social care in 2010-11 unless cuts to in-house services are made. Today, the council revealed there...Fri, 11 Jun 2010 17:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/11/114695/blackburn-puts-plan-to-hive-off-care-services-on-hold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/11/114695/blackburn-puts-plan-to-hive-off-care-services-on-hold.html Blackburn Council has put on hold controversial plans to outsource its in-house care services, pending a consultation that will consider other options. Councillors...Fri, 11 Jun 2010 16:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/11/114690/gangmasters-body-bids-to-combat-exploitation-of-care-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/11/114690/gangmasters-body-bids-to-combat-exploitation-of-care-workers.htmlA regulator has called for powers to clamp down on the growing exploitation of migrant labourers in the care sector.Fri, 11 Jun 2010 13:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/10/114687/councils-may-get-health-commissioning-role.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/10/114687/councils-may-get-health-commissioning-role.htmlCouncils may get a bigger role in health commissioning, under government plans to radically scale back the role of primary care trusts.Thu, 10 Jun 2010 15:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/09/114676/hospitals-to-be-forced-to-fund-community-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/09/114676/hospitals-to-be-forced-to-fund-community-services.html Hospitals will have to fund community services to avoid costly readmissions of patients to hospital, health secretary Andrew Lansley has said. The...Wed, 09 Jun 2010 11:34:10 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/08/114674/chancellor-vows-vulnerable-will-be-protected-from-huge-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/08/114674/chancellor-vows-vulnerable-will-be-protected-from-huge-cuts.htmlChancellor George Osborne has promised to limit spending cuts on the most vulnerable and on areas heavily dependent on the public sector as he outlined his framework for future spending decisions today.Tue, 08 Jun 2010 20:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/08/114669/adult-social-care-grants-safe-from-axe-burstow-confirms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/08/114669/adult-social-care-grants-safe-from-axe-burstow-confirms.htmlNo Department of Health grants for adult social care are going to be cut this year, care services minister Paul Burstow has revealed.Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/07/114664/dementia-care-providers-to-face-fixed-fee-tariff.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/07/114664/dementia-care-providers-to-face-fixed-fee-tariff.htmlGovernment efforts to reduce the numbers of dementia patients entering hospital will include the introduction of a fixed-fee tariff for providers of community care. Mon, 07 Jun 2010 18:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/07/114653/experienced-social-work-staff-to-be-replaced-by-call-centres.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/07/114653/experienced-social-work-staff-to-be-replaced-by-call-centres.htmlHundreds of experienced social work staff are to be replaced by a call centre at Glasgow Council as part of a plan to save £180m over the next three years. (Pic credit: Rex)Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/03/114641/ministers-to-be-lobbied-on-personalisation-development.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/03/114641/ministers-to-be-lobbied-on-personalisation-development.htmlAdult social care leaders in England are to lobby ministers on the next phase of the personalisation agenda.Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/03/114638/q-and-a-what-does-the-national-college-mean-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/03/114638/q-and-a-what-does-the-national-college-mean-for-social-workers.htmlQ and A: What does the national college mean for social workers? Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/03/114637/gove-promises-support-for-taskforce-recommendations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/03/114637/gove-promises-support-for-taskforce-recommendations.htmlThe government will support the recommendations of the Social Work Task Force, education secretary Michael Gove has said. Thu, 03 Jun 2010 11:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/02/114633/brighton-to-appoint-combined-adults-and-childrens-director.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/02/114633/brighton-to-appoint-combined-adults-and-childrens-director.htmlBrighton and Hove Council will become the latest authority to combine responsibility for vulnerable adults and children in a single post as part of a wholesale restructure designed to save £45m over the next three years.Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/01/114631/scots-aim-to-transform-dementia-care-but-with-no-new-money.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/01/114631/scots-aim-to-transform-dementia-care-but-with-no-new-money.htmlThe Scottish government issued plans to transform dementia care today in the country's first strategy for the condition - but it has not pledged any new money to meet its ambitions.Tue, 01 Jun 2010 21:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/01/114622/behan-and-gilbert-among-whitehalls-top-earners.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/01/114622/behan-and-gilbert-among-whitehalls-top-earners.htmlAdult care mandarin David Behan (pictured) and Ofsted chief inspector Christine Gilbert are among Whitehall's top earners, a list of the highest-paid civil servants published by the government today reveals.Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/01/114620/identifying-and-supporting-people-at-risk-on-hospital-admission.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/01/114620/identifying-and-supporting-people-at-risk-on-hospital-admission.htmlMultidisciplinary teams in Croydon are leading work to identify people at risk of hospital admission and support them in the community, potentially saving substantial sums. Mark Hunter reports Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/28/114618/coalition-plans-could-test-health-and-social-care-links.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/28/114618/coalition-plans-could-test-health-and-social-care-links.htmlMoves to integrate health and social care in England may be put to the test under coalition government plans for primary care trusts and GPs, it has emerged.Fri, 28 May 2010 17:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/27/114604/regional-disparities-found-in-progress-on-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/27/114604/regional-disparities-found-in-progress-on-personalisation.htmlThere are wide regional variations in English councils' progress towards meeting a series of personalisation targets, a survey has found.Thu, 27 May 2010 16:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/27/114598/councils-set-to-miss-personal-budgets-target.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/27/114598/councils-set-to-miss-personal-budgets-target.htmlCouncils are on course to miss a target of moving 30% of adult social care recipients on to personal budgets by April 2011, according to a survey. Thu, 27 May 2010 14:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/27/114597/personalisation-grant-saved-from-cuts-ministers-confirm.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/27/114597/personalisation-grant-saved-from-cuts-ministers-confirm.htmlThe government has confirmed that local authority funding to support the personalisation agenda will not be cut this year.Thu, 27 May 2010 10:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/25/114584/dawson-why-basw-stood-firm-over-national-college.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/25/114584/dawson-why-basw-stood-firm-over-national-college.htmlHilton Dawson, chief executive of the British Association of Social Workers, tells Community Care about the association's stance over the national college of social work. He reveals the college's creation could leave members facing a decision over BASW's future.Tue, 25 May 2010 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/25/114582/personalisation-grant-stays-ring-fenced-but-cuts-fear-remains.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/25/114582/personalisation-grant-stays-ring-fenced-but-cuts-fear-remains.htmlLocal authority funding to support the personalisation agenda will remain ring-fenced this year but doubts remain over whether the £237m grant will be cut.Tue, 25 May 2010 10:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/24/114579/mental-health-foundation-loneliness-must-be-tackled.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/24/114579/mental-health-foundation-loneliness-must-be-tackled.htmlAction is needed to raise awareness of loneliness and tackle the impact that it can have on people's health and well-being, a Mental Health Foundation report published today has said.Mon, 24 May 2010 19:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/24/114575/personalisation-grant-could-be-cut-warns-think-tank.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/24/114575/personalisation-grant-could-be-cut-warns-think-tank.htmlA £230m grant to help councils implement personalisation could be at risk from the cuts announced by the Treasury today, a think-tank has warned.Mon, 24 May 2010 15:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/21/114566/career-clinic-27-may-2010-elder-abuse.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/21/114566/career-clinic-27-may-2010-elder-abuse.htmlQ: I am a social worker in an older people's team in southern England and am concerned about one of my clients, a 90-year-old woman living at home supported by her son and daughter-in-law. The carers are verbally abusive towards me and it's difficult to see the woman alone. I've long suspected that they are keeping her isolated and possibly taking her money but I haven't been able to talk to her alone for a proper assessment. What should I do? Fri, 21 May 2010 16:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/21/114560/glasgow-care-partnerships-scrapped-over-nhs-council-row.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/21/114560/glasgow-care-partnerships-scrapped-over-nhs-council-row.html Five multi-million pound health and social care partnerships in Glasgow collapsed this week following a dispute between the council and the local NHS board...Fri, 21 May 2010 15:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/21/114557/anger-over-cqc-decision-to-end-star-ratings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/21/114557/anger-over-cqc-decision-to-end-star-ratings.htmlCare sector chiefs have reacted angrily to the Care Quality Commission's decision to scrap star ratings in October before deciding on a new system for assessing the quality of providers.Fri, 21 May 2010 13:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/20/114550/adult-protection-experts-ignored-by-labour-cc-live-told.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/20/114550/adult-protection-experts-ignored-by-labour-cc-live-told.htmlThe Labour government "totally ignored" adult protection experts' advice on how to improve safeguarding, Community Care Live was told yesterday.Thu, 20 May 2010 16:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/20/114548/government-scraps-labours-free-personal-care-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/20/114548/government-scraps-labours-free-personal-care-plan.htmlThe government has axed Labour's plan to provide free personal care to about 110,000 more people in England, despite the measure already being on the statute...Thu, 20 May 2010 12:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/20/114546/coalition-deal-victory-for-community-care-dementia-campaign.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/20/114546/coalition-deal-victory-for-community-care-dementia-campaign.htmlCommunity Care's Dementia Declaration campaign has claimed a victory after the government made prioritising dementia research funding one of its pledges in its full coalition agreement, published today.Thu, 20 May 2010 11:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114540/council-cuts-could-hurt-carers-services-cc-live-hears.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114540/council-cuts-could-hurt-carers-services-cc-live-hears.htmlExperts fear that budget cuts could lead to tougher times for carers as councils seek to claw back savings, Community Care LIVE heard today.Wed, 19 May 2010 16:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114534/shaun-bailey-tells-cc-live-personalisation-dreamt-up-on-high.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114534/shaun-bailey-tells-cc-live-personalisation-dreamt-up-on-high.htmlSocial care leaders and a rising star of the Conservative party have clashed over the current state of social work at one of the sector's foremost annual...Wed, 19 May 2010 10:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114517/the-impact-of-personalisation-on-adults-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114517/the-impact-of-personalisation-on-adults-social-workers.htmlPersonalisation is changing the face of social care, but research by Community Care and trade union Unison suggests bureaucracy and job changes mean it is yet to win the hearts and minds of social workers. Mithran Samuel reportsWed, 19 May 2010 01:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114519/personalisation-and-the-social-care-knowledge-gap.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114519/personalisation-and-the-social-care-knowledge-gap.htmlMore social workers understand the workings of personalisation than in 2008 but a big minority are still in the dark, writes Daniel LombardWed, 19 May 2010 00:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114511/personalisation-cuts-threaten-transformation-agenda.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/19/114511/personalisation-cuts-threaten-transformation-agenda.htmlWhile social workers fear personalisation may be at risk from impending government cuts, our survey finds the agenda is already facing pressures. Jeremy Dunning reports Wed, 19 May 2010 00:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/17/114491/social-care-whos-who-in-the-new-government.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/17/114491/social-care-whos-who-in-the-new-government.htmlSocial care: who's who in the new coalition governmentMon, 17 May 2010 17:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/14/114509/sector-welcomes-paul-burstow-as-care-minister.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/14/114509/sector-welcomes-paul-burstow-as-care-minister.html Social work experts are welcoming the appointment of Liberal Democrat MP Paul Burstow as the new care services minister. The Sutton and Cheam MP is...Fri, 14 May 2010 17:01:50 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/14/114507/paul-burstow-appointed-care-services-minister.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/14/114507/paul-burstow-appointed-care-services-minister.htmlLiberal Democrat MP Paul Burstow has been appointed as the minister for care services, Community Care can reveal.Fri, 14 May 2010 16:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/13/114492/experts-urge-care-funding-action-from-coalition-government.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/13/114492/experts-urge-care-funding-action-from-coalition-government.htmlExperts are pressing new health secretary Andrew Lansley to commit to immediate talks with other parties on reforming adult care funding to ensure momentum is not lost.Thu, 13 May 2010 15:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/13/114494/most-providers-meet-cqc-registration-deadline.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/13/114494/most-providers-meet-cqc-registration-deadline.htmlOver 90% of care service providers met the deadline for registering with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in its first round of registrations, it has revealed.Thu, 13 May 2010 07:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114493/social-workers-to-get-more-dementia-training-in-wales.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114493/social-workers-to-get-more-dementia-training-in-wales.htmlSocial workers in Wales will get more training in organising care and assessing risk for dementia patients as part of the country's long-awaited plan to improve dementia care.Wed, 12 May 2010 21:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/113790/popp-a-look-at-the-final-report-on-partnerships-for-older-people-projects.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/113790/popp-a-look-at-the-final-report-on-partnerships-for-older-people-projects.htmlThe National Evaluation of Partnerships for Older People Projects suggests nearly all are cost effective, while there was particular success with the provision of practical help, finds social care consultant Melanie Henwood Wed, 12 May 2010 17:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114472/tories-andrew-lansley-to-take-charge-of-adult-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114472/tories-andrew-lansley-to-take-charge-of-adult-social-care.htmlThe Conservatives' Andrew Lansley will become health secretary, with responsibility for adult social care, while the new coalition government will also take forward plans to make £6bn in cuts that could cut thousands of public sector jobs this year, the BBC has reported. Wed, 12 May 2010 15:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114478/social-care-absent-from-tory-lib-dem-coalition-document.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114478/social-care-absent-from-tory-lib-dem-coalition-document.htmlThe social care agenda is absent from the Conservative-Liberal Democrats coaltion document. Wed, 12 May 2010 15:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114473/profile-of-andrew-lansley-the-new-health-secretary.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/12/114473/profile-of-andrew-lansley-the-new-health-secretary.htmlThe son of a pathologist who worked for the NHS since its inception and a former civil servant, Andrew Lansley is often credited with bringing his party round to supporting the health service.Wed, 12 May 2010 10:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/11/114471/liberal-democrat-influence-good-news-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/11/114471/liberal-democrat-influence-good-news-for-social-care.htmlAn election pact with the Liberal Democrats could force the Conservatives to abandon policies that would have starved social care of money, experts say.Tue, 11 May 2010 13:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114460/tory-led-government-would-produce-new-care-white-paper.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114460/tory-led-government-would-produce-new-care-white-paper.htmlA Conservative-led government would produce a new White Paper on adult care funding reform should it take power, as expected, this week, a sector leader has said.Mon, 10 May 2010 16:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114437/disability-champion-looks-back-on-pioneering-1970-law.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114437/disability-champion-looks-back-on-pioneering-1970-law.htmlForty years on from the first disability rights legislation, its architect, Alf Morris, tells Vern Pitt how he overcame government opposition to reform Mon, 10 May 2010 12:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114451/pioneering-1970-disability-law-never-fulfilled-its-promise.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114451/pioneering-1970-disability-law-never-fulfilled-its-promise.htmlThe enactment of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 was a historic event. For the first time, parliament, and by extension wider society, recognised the concept of rights for disabled people. However, the rights under the 1970 act never quite lived up to their billing. Mon, 10 May 2010 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114448/disability-rights-40-years-on-sector-leaders-give-their-view.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114448/disability-rights-40-years-on-sector-leaders-give-their-view.htmlLeading disabled people give their views on the legacy of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970, the first disability rights law in this country.Mon, 10 May 2010 12:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114454/progress-of-disability-rights-1970-2010.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/10/114454/progress-of-disability-rights-1970-2010.htmlHow the rights of disabled people have progressed since the pioneering Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 was passed.Mon, 10 May 2010 12:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/07/114432/hung-parliament-means-uncertainty-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/07/114432/hung-parliament-means-uncertainty-for-social-care.htmlCare services minister Phil Hope has lost his seat in the election and children's secretary Ed Balls secured a narrow victory as a hung parliament creates uncertainty for social care. Fri, 07 May 2010 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/07/114440/hung-parliament-may-further-delay-care-funding-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/07/114440/hung-parliament-may-further-delay-care-funding-reform.html Adult social care funding reform could be delayed by a hung parliament, after the election failed to deliver a conclusive majority to any party. Before...Fri, 07 May 2010 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/07/114431/sector-leaders-set-care-agenda-for-new-government.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/07/114431/sector-leaders-set-care-agenda-for-new-government.html The new government must prioritise reform of care services despite the constraints on public finances, sector leaders have demanded. Social workers...Fri, 07 May 2010 00:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/06/114427/medical-students-lack-elder-abuse-training-finds-study.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/06/114427/medical-students-lack-elder-abuse-training-finds-study.htmlMedical students are not receiving training in spotting elder abuse on half of university courses, research reveals today.Thu, 06 May 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/04/114414/labour-wins-back-social-worker-vote-finds-pre-election-poll.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/04/114414/labour-wins-back-social-worker-vote-finds-pre-election-poll.htmlSocial care professionals look set to return Labour in this week's election with almost half pledging to back the governing party in an online poll by Community Care.Tue, 04 May 2010 15:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/04/114415/disabled-voters-unimpressed-with-politicians-over-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/05/04/114415/disabled-voters-unimpressed-with-politicians-over-social-care.htmlDisabled voters are unimpressed with the way all political parties have addressed their concerns over social care and other issues. Tue, 04 May 2010 13:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/30/114397/election-immigration-plans-spell-trouble-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/30/114397/election-immigration-plans-spell-trouble-for-social-care.htmlPlans from all three parties to tighten immigration controls could restrict recruitment to adult social care and damage the quality of services, according to sector heads. (Picture: Alamy)Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/29/114395/home-care-charges-a-postcode-lottery.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/29/114395/home-care-charges-a-postcode-lottery.htmlHome care charges are a postcode lottery with fees for users ranging from zero to nearly £18 an hour between areas, according to a study by Which?.Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/29/114392/bureaucracy-restricts-dementia-direct-payment-take-up.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/29/114392/bureaucracy-restricts-dementia-direct-payment-take-up.htmlDirect payment take-up among dementia patients in Scotland remains low because of bureaucracy, high eligibility thresholds and a lack of promotion by councils, Alzheimer Scotland said today.Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/29/114390/conservatives-to-ring-fence-nhs-dementia-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/29/114390/conservatives-to-ring-fence-nhs-dementia-funding.htmlShadow care minister Stephen O'Brien has revealed for the first time that the Conservatives would ring-fence NHS money for dementia care and other specific health programmes.Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/28/114391/basw-members-vote-in-favour-of-uk-college-of-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/28/114391/basw-members-vote-in-favour-of-uk-college-of-social-work.htmlNearly 90% of British Association of Social Workers’ members have voted in favour of an independent, UK-wide college of social work.Wed, 28 Apr 2010 17:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/26/114380/fears-tories-would-take-axe-to-social-care-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/26/114380/fears-tories-would-take-axe-to-social-care-funding.htmlConcerns are being raised that the Tories plan to spend far less than Labour on social care, should they be elected to power on 6 May.Mon, 26 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/26/114377/blackadder-star-tony-robinson-backs-dementia-declaration.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/26/114377/blackadder-star-tony-robinson-backs-dementia-declaration.htmlActor Tony Robinson has become the latest celebrity figure to back Community Care's Dementia Declaration campaign.Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/26/114376/dementia-what-would-tories-labour-and-lib-dems-do-if-they-were-elected.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/26/114376/dementia-what-would-tories-labour-and-lib-dems-do-if-they-were-elected.htmlVern Pitt asks three of the politicians responsible for their parties' adult social care brief what they will do for dementia care if they form the next government Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114348/kings-fund-care-reform-could-be-kicked-into-long-grass.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114348/kings-fund-care-reform-could-be-kicked-into-long-grass.htmlThe King's Fund has warned that reform of long-term care funding may be "kicked into the political long grass" after the election because of the lack of consensus between the major parties.Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114346/best-practice-in-dementia-care-home-staff-training.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114346/best-practice-in-dementia-care-home-staff-training.htmlWhile the overuse of antipsychotic drugs remains a problem in care homes, one provider has pioneered a person-centred approach that has cut drug use and distress levels. Natalie Valios reports on how staff can gain a better insight into dementia Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114340/carolyn-frenchs-story-of-her-partners-battle-with-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114340/carolyn-frenchs-story-of-her-partners-battle-with-dementia.htmlCarolyn French recounts the decline of her partner after the onset of dementia and the difficulties in accessing effective support until she discovered the care programme approachThu, 22 Apr 2010 11:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114338/gordon-brown-backs-community-cares-dementia-campaign.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114338/gordon-brown-backs-community-cares-dementia-campaign.htmlPrime minister Gordon Brown has given his personal endorsement to Community Care's campaign to make dementia a political priority.Thu, 22 Apr 2010 09:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114337/move-to-community-services-held-up-by-risk-averse-culture.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114337/move-to-community-services-held-up-by-risk-averse-culture.htmlEfforts to shift health and social care out of institutions and into the community are being hampered by risk-averse commissioning and a lack of government policy direction.Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114316/new-adass-president-says-services-must-change-as-cuts-bite.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/22/114316/new-adass-president-says-services-must-change-as-cuts-bite.htmlRichard Jones, who becomes Association of Directors of Adult Social Services president today, tells Jeremy Dunning that the next 12 months will be a time of delivering care differently as cuts start to bite Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/21/114334/ukhca-warning-for-scottish-personalisation-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/21/114334/ukhca-warning-for-scottish-personalisation-plan.html Scotland's national strategy for self-directed support could lead to increased costs, reduced income for service providers and a lower quality of care, the...Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:48:07 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/21/114333/staff-suspended-at-troubled-southern-cross-care-home.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/21/114333/staff-suspended-at-troubled-southern-cross-care-home.html Twelve members of staff at a Tyneside care home have been suspended as part of an ongoing probe into the deaths of 16 residents. The...Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:32:15 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/20/114329/community-care-dementia-campaign-gets-all-party-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/20/114329/community-care-dementia-campaign-gets-all-party-support.htmlCommunity Care's Dementia Declaration has won the support of all three major parties, after the Tories gave the campaign their endorsement this week.Tue, 20 Apr 2010 16:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/19/114322/conservatives-promise-more-dementia-spending.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/19/114322/conservatives-promise-more-dementia-spending.htmlThe Conservatives have promised more funding for dementia research and expanded access to drug treatments for Alzheimer's patients should they take power following May's general election. Tory leader David Cameron (pictured, credit Rex) said: "We need a revolution in the way we treat older people.”Mon, 19 Apr 2010 13:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/19/114323/police-investigate-deaths-of-16-care-home-residents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/19/114323/police-investigate-deaths-of-16-care-home-residents.htmlPolice are looking into the deaths of 16 older people at a privately-run Northumbrian care home. Detectives were called to St...Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/19/114319/research-will-limit-rising-costs-of-dementia-say-experts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/19/114319/research-will-limit-rising-costs-of-dementia-say-experts.htmlDementia care may cost England less in future than had been previously thought on the back of improved treatment and scientific developments, according to experts.Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/16/114310/cqc-admits-administrative-errors-in-registration-process.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/16/114310/cqc-admits-administrative-errors-in-registration-process.htmlThe Care Quality Commission has admitted administrative mistakes have been made in its communications with care providers about registering with the regulator.Fri, 16 Apr 2010 13:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/16/114302/brown-cameron-and-clegg-set-out-stall-on-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/16/114302/brown-cameron-and-clegg-set-out-stall-on-social-care.html Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg all backed the need to support carers and forge consensus on social care funding reform in yesterday's first televised debate between the three party leaders. (Pic: Ken McKay/ITV/Rex Features)Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/16/114301/international-dementia-care-strategies.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/16/114301/international-dementia-care-strategies.htmlAlthough we may think the UK is struggling with dementia care, Sally-Marie Bamford reports that we are among the pacesetters in Europe Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/15/114326/manifesto-confirms-key-pledges-on-care-and-jobs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/15/114326/manifesto-confirms-key-pledges-on-care-and-jobs.htmlA re-elected Labour government would establish a national college for social work and develop a national care service, while constraining public sector pay.Thu, 15 Apr 2010 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/15/114285/lib-dem-manifesto-backs-dementia-research-funding-boost.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/15/114285/lib-dem-manifesto-backs-dementia-research-funding-boost.htmlThe Liberal Democrats have pledged to make dementia the priority area for medical research in their general election manifesto, launched by leader Nick Clegg today.Thu, 15 Apr 2010 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/15/114284/charity-urges-quality-of-life-boost-for-dementia-patients.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/15/114284/charity-urges-quality-of-life-boost-for-dementia-patients.htmlDementia services need to develop ways to monitor sufferers' quality of life, the Alzheimer's Society has demanded in a report published today.Thu, 15 Apr 2010 08:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/14/114290/labour-backs-community-cares-dementia-declaration.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/14/114290/labour-backs-community-cares-dementia-declaration.htmlCare services minister Phil Hope has endorsed Community Care's Dementia Declaration campaign on behalf of the Labour Party.Wed, 14 Apr 2010 16:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/14/114281/age-uk-tory-manifesto-worse-than-labours-for-older-people.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/14/114281/age-uk-tory-manifesto-worse-than-labours-for-older-people.htmlThe Tories lost a key skirmish to Labour today as the charity Age UK accused the Conservatives of ducking the issues of an ageing society in their manifesto.Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/13/114274/kings-fund-labours-13-year-mental-health-record-falls-short.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/13/114274/kings-fund-labours-13-year-mental-health-record-falls-short.htmlLabour's record on mental health services is mixed, according to a King's Fund review of its 13 years in power.Tue, 13 Apr 2010 11:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/12/114258/labour-pledges-improved-services-for-dementia-patients.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/12/114258/labour-pledges-improved-services-for-dementia-patients.htmlLabour has pledged to ensure that dementia patients in every area have access to psychological therapy, counselling and memory clinics if it wins the election, in its manifesto, published today.Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/09/114240/michael-parkinson-backs-dementia-declaration-campaign.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/09/114240/michael-parkinson-backs-dementia-declaration-campaign.htmlDignity in care champion Michael Parkinson has thrown his weight behind Community Care's campaign to make dementia an election priority. (Picture: Rex)Fri, 09 Apr 2010 10:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/08/114239/gordon-browns-free-personal-care-bill-becomes-law.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/08/114239/gordon-browns-free-personal-care-bill-becomes-law.htmlGordon Brown's flagship free personal care bill became law today after it was passed by the House of Lords.Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114186/social-care-white-paper-heralds-free-national-care-service.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114186/social-care-white-paper-heralds-free-national-care-service.htmlHealth secretary Andy Burnham today announced plans to create a national care service to provide all eligible users with free care and support but delayed any decision on how it would be funded, in a White Paper on reform.Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114222/lib-dems-snp-and-plaid-back-community-cares-dementia-campaign.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114222/lib-dems-snp-and-plaid-back-community-cares-dementia-campaign.htmlThe Liberal Democrats, the Scottish National Party and Plaid Cymru have announced their backing for Community Care’s Dementia Declaration campaign.Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114226/white-paper-sector-split-on-personal-budgets-for-all-target.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114226/white-paper-sector-split-on-personal-budgets-for-all-target.htmlSocial care experts are divided over the achievability of a pledge in the care White Paper to give all eligible users a personal budget by 2012.Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114223/action-on-elder-abuse-helpline-forced-to-cut-hours.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/06/114223/action-on-elder-abuse-helpline-forced-to-cut-hours.htmlAction on Elder Abuse's helpline faces reduced hours after the government stopped funding the charity on 1 April.Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/02/114218/ukip-chief-suspended-over-racist-rant-on-community-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/02/114218/ukip-chief-suspended-over-racist-rant-on-community-care.htmlUK Independence Party chief Paul Wiffen has been suspended following his racist rant on Community Care. Fri, 02 Apr 2010 11:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/01/114207/care-quality-commission-one-year-on.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/01/114207/care-quality-commission-one-year-on.htmlAs the Care Quality Commission celebrates its first birthday, Mithran Samuel evaluates the regulator's turbulent year Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/01/114204/dementia-champion-martin-green-how-commissioners-hinder-staff.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/01/114204/dementia-champion-martin-green-how-commissioners-hinder-staff.htmlIndependent sector dementia champion Martin Green says staff need more time to spend with sufferers but commissioners prevent this from happening. Vern Pitt reports Thu, 01 Apr 2010 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/01/114205/royal-commission-chair-dismisses-need-for-new-care-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/04/01/114205/royal-commission-chair-dismisses-need-for-new-care-inquiry.html The government's plan to set up an independent commission on care funding "is a recipe for doing nothing", the chair of the 1997-9 Royal Commission on Long...Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/31/114196/providers-attack-white-paper-as-sector-splits-on-reform-plans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/31/114196/providers-attack-white-paper-as-sector-splits-on-reform-plans.htmlCare providers have emerged as the harshest critics of the care White Paper, amid support from other groups for the reform plan launched yesterday by health secretary Andy Burnham.Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/31/114191/concessions-may-not-save-free-personal-care-bill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/31/114191/concessions-may-not-save-free-personal-care-bill.html The future of Labour's free personal care bill still hangs in the balance despite key concessions having been offered to the government's opponents in the...Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:50:53 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114182/social-care-white-paper-welcomed-amid-funding-questions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114182/social-care-white-paper-welcomed-amid-funding-questions.htmlThe social care sector has applauded the government’s social care white paper referring to it as bold and a milestone. However, many have expressed concern at the lack of detailed funding proposals.Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114188/tories-and-lib-dems-unimpressed-with-care-white-paper.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114188/tories-and-lib-dems-unimpressed-with-care-white-paper.htmlThe Tories and Liberal Democrats have rejected significant elements of Labour's plans to reform adult social care care, outlined in today's White Paper.Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114183/social-care-white-paper-attendance-allowance-stays-for-now.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114183/social-care-white-paper-attendance-allowance-stays-for-now.htmlThe social care White Paper, published today by health secretary Andy Burnham (pictured), has ruled out scrapping attendance allowance or disability living allowance for the duration of the next parliament.Tue, 30 Mar 2010 13:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114179/white-paper-backs-free-care-service-but-defers-death-tax-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114179/white-paper-backs-free-care-service-but-defers-death-tax-plan.htmlHealth secretary Andy Burnham will back a national care service free at the point of need but defer a decision on how it will be funded in a White Paper today.Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114165/will-the-national-dementia-strategy-targets-be-achieved-by-2014.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/30/114165/will-the-national-dementia-strategy-targets-be-achieved-by-2014.htmlThe problems associated with dementia care have been well documented. So what are the chances of turning it around by 2014, the implementation date for the national dementia strategy? Vern Pitt examines the likelihood that the key objectives will be delivered Tue, 30 Mar 2010 09:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/29/114177/personalisation-councils-get-30m-to-boost-it-and-user-advice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/29/114177/personalisation-councils-get-30m-to-boost-it-and-user-advice.htmlCouncils are being give £30m to fund IT improvements and improved information services to help transform adult care in line with personalisation in 2010-11.Mon, 29 Mar 2010 17:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/29/114170/adult-care-employers-get-workforce-planning-boost.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/29/114170/adult-care-employers-get-workforce-planning-boost.html Social care and NHS employers are to get more support in workforce planning from an agency designed to help them deliver more efficient and personalised...Mon, 29 Mar 2010 15:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/26/114163/the-former-old-age-psychiatrist-who-now-has-vascular-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/26/114163/the-former-old-age-psychiatrist-who-now-has-vascular-dementia.htmlRetired old age psychiatrist Daphne Wallace is determined to play her part in improving dementia care - particularly as she has the condition herself. Vern Pitt reports Fri, 26 Mar 2010 16:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/26/114152/community-care-dementia-campaign-wins-early-backing.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/26/114152/community-care-dementia-campaign-wins-early-backing.htmlCommunity Care's campaign to put dementia at the heart of the election has won the backing of a number of social care bodies following its launch yesterday.Fri, 26 Mar 2010 09:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114147/masters-degree-in-social-work-practice-piloted-in-2011.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114147/masters-degree-in-social-work-practice-piloted-in-2011.htmlAll social workers in England will be able to take a master's degree in social work practice, ministers have promised. Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114145/unison-let-councils-employ-pas-to-protect-working-conditions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114145/unison-let-councils-employ-pas-to-protect-working-conditions.htmlPersonal assistants should be employed by local authorities rather than direct payment users to protect their working conditions, a Unison-commissioned report said this week.Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114142/can-man-of-62-live-independently-despite-suffering-stroke.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114142/can-man-of-62-live-independently-despite-suffering-stroke.htmlSocial workers and a service user offer advice on a case involving a stroke sufferer whose stay in a care home raised questions about his ability to live independently Thu, 25 Mar 2010 10:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114123/community-projects-can-help-people-with-dementia-remain-at-home.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114123/community-projects-can-help-people-with-dementia-remain-at-home.htmlGeoff Ettridge explains how community-based projects can be used to cut demand for dementia care and benefit the wider community Thu, 25 Mar 2010 08:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114120/dementia-what-should-be-the-priority-for-the-election.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114120/dementia-what-should-be-the-priority-for-the-election.htmlWhat should be the next government's priorities for improving dementia care? Vern Pitt asks service users, carers, practitioners and service leaders Thu, 25 Mar 2010 08:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114131/dementia-tsar-no-barriers-to-five-year-plans-success.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/25/114131/dementia-tsar-no-barriers-to-five-year-plans-success.htmlThe absence of dementia as a national priority for the NHS is no barrier to improving care, the first national dementia tsar has said.Thu, 25 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/24/114129/free-care-guaranteed-as-scots-launch-ageing-society-debate.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/24/114129/free-care-guaranteed-as-scots-launch-ageing-society-debate.htmlThe Scottish government today launched a debate on meeting the future costs of social care for older people, but has pledged to retain the flagship free personal care policy.Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/24/114133/dementia-research-funding-guaranteed-phil-hope.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/24/114133/dementia-research-funding-guaranteed-phil-hope.htmlFunding for some areas of dementia research is to be guaranteed, care services minister Phil Hope announced last week.Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/23/114122/dementia-advisers-a-cornerstone-of-the-national-strategy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/23/114122/dementia-advisers-a-cornerstone-of-the-national-strategy.htmlNatalie Valios reports on the progress of one of the national dementia strategy's cornerstone policies - ongoing support for people with the condition from a network of dementia advisers Tue, 23 Mar 2010 11:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/23/114121/community-cares-exclusive-survey-of-views-on-the-dementia-strategy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/23/114121/community-cares-exclusive-survey-of-views-on-the-dementia-strategy.htmlCommunity Care is calling for a full debate on dementia care during the general election campaign given the problems identified by its exclusive survey. Mithran Samuel reports Tue, 23 Mar 2010 11:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/23/114117/care-white-paper-government-told-not-to-shirk-from-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/23/114117/care-white-paper-government-told-not-to-shirk-from-reform.htmlSixteen charities have urged ministers to ensure the forthcoming care White Paper contains explicit pledges to introduce a new, long-term funding settlement, amid reports that the government will avoid committing itself.Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/19/114106/alistair-burns-my-priorities-for-national-dementia-strategy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/19/114106/alistair-burns-my-priorities-for-national-dementia-strategy.htmlAlistair Burns takes up his post as national clinical director for dementia next week. He tells Vern Pitt of his priorities for the five-year strategy for England Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114086/charities-delay-to-free-personal-care-bill-will-hurt-families.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114086/charities-delay-to-free-personal-care-bill-will-hurt-families.htmlCare charities said today they were "disappointed" that government plans to provide free care at home for people with high needs had been delayed and potentially wrecked.Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114088/personal-budget-rollout-could-increase-pressure-on-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114088/personal-budget-rollout-could-increase-pressure-on-councils.htmlCouncils could face pressure on resources by having to commission traditional services alongside innovative ones as they roll out personal budgets, research by think-tank Demos shows.Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114079/browns-flagship-free-personal-care-bill-dismantled-by-lords.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114079/browns-flagship-free-personal-care-bill-dismantled-by-lords.htmlGordon Brown's flagship free personal care bill has been torpedoed in the House of Lords and now has little chance of becoming law until after the general election.Thu, 18 Mar 2010 08:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114058/two-thirds-of-pcts-cannot-account-for-dementia-strategy-money.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/18/114058/two-thirds-of-pcts-cannot-account-for-dementia-strategy-money.htmlNearly two-thirds of primary care trusts (PCTs) are unable to show where they have spent money intended to support the national dementia strategy, Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/17/114076/care-white-paper-likely-to-be-vague-on-state-funding-figures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/17/114076/care-white-paper-likely-to-be-vague-on-state-funding-figures.htmlThe mammoth public spending deficit is likely to prevent ministers from making significant financial commitments in the forthcoming care funding White Paper, experts have warned.Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/16/114055/in-control-personal-budgets-delivering-improved-outcomes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/16/114055/in-control-personal-budgets-delivering-improved-outcomes.htmlPersonal budgets have improved the lives of most users but fewer clients have true control over their care and support than official estimates indicate, In Control said today.Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/15/114053/palliative-care-body-calls-for-debate-on-ring-fencing-funds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/15/114053/palliative-care-body-calls-for-debate-on-ring-fencing-funds.htmlA major debate is needed on the possibility of introducing more ring fencing in public spending as many primary care trusts are unable to account for money...Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/15/114050/personalisation-in-scotland.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/15/114050/personalisation-in-scotland.htmlScotland's government is pledging to make self-directed support central to social care. Jeremy Dunning investigates what this will mean Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/15/114046/royal-college-of-psychiatrists-to-lead-hospital-dementia-audit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/15/114046/royal-college-of-psychiatrists-to-lead-hospital-dementia-audit.htmlA comprehensive audit of dementia care in hospitals in England and Wales is to commence this week with a view to developing a quality mark for dementia care.Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/12/114042/care-providers-slam-cqc-for-handling-of-registration-process.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/12/114042/care-providers-slam-cqc-for-handling-of-registration-process.html The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is not adequately prepared to handle the process of registering care services in England that will start within weeks,...Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/12/114039/mps-let-public-decide-on-fully-tax-funded-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/12/114039/mps-let-public-decide-on-fully-tax-funded-social-care.htmlThe public should be asked whether it supports full tax funding for adult social care, rather than have the option closed off by government, an influential cross-party group of MPs said today.Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114037/tessa-jowell-expresses-support-for-mutuals-in-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114037/tessa-jowell-expresses-support-for-mutuals-in-social-care.htmlBetter known as the Olympics minister, former social worker Tessa Jowell tells Jeremy Dunning of her enthusiasm for the mutual model for social care delivery Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114033/politicians-lack-will-to-reform-care-funding-rules.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114033/politicians-lack-will-to-reform-care-funding-rules.htmlPoliticians have been accused of lacking the will to fix the problems afflicting ordinary residence rules, which can place a huge burden on some local authorities and trap disabled people in unsuitable housing.Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114026/burnham-hints-white-paper-will-back-compulsory-care-levy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114026/burnham-hints-white-paper-will-back-compulsory-care-levy.htmlHealth secretary Andy Burnham has strongly suggested the forthcoming adult white paper will back a compulsory levy to fund care as he talked up the idea in a debate with his Tory and Lib Dem opposite numbers yesterday. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114029/news-round-up-failings-over-raped-daughters-death-tax.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/11/114029/news-round-up-failings-over-raped-daughters-death-tax.htmlHeadlines in today’s papers include:- Litany of failures that let father rape his daughters for years; Labour refuses to rule out 'death tax' to fund care for elderly; Teacher had affair with teenager at special needs school, court told; Schoolgirl, 13, found hanged amid claims she was bullied because she was pretty. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114018/phil-hope-pcts-will-be-held-to-account-on-carers-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114018/phil-hope-pcts-will-be-held-to-account-on-carers-funding.htmlPrimary care trusts will be held to account for their spending on carers following revelations that dedicated resources for short breaks were not being spent as desired, care services minister Phil Hope has pledged.Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114002/personalisation-chief-john-bolton-to-leave-department-of-health.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114002/personalisation-chief-john-bolton-to-leave-department-of-health.htmlThe civil servant who has led on the implementation of the personalisation programme in England is to leave the Department of Health.Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114015/news-round-up-jon-venables-laming-adult-care-row-election.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114015/news-round-up-jon-venables-laming-adult-care-row-election.htmlHeadlines in today's papers include:- Parties clash ahead of elderly social care summit; Psychiatric report said Jon Venables was a 'negligible risk'; Public sector pay has risen 15% more than private since Labour came to powerWed, 10 Mar 2010 08:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114017/political-leaders-urged-to-stop-bickering-over-social-care-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/10/114017/political-leaders-urged-to-stop-bickering-over-social-care-reform.htmlAn Age Concern and Help the Aged poll has revealed that six out of 10 adults think politicians are not doing enough to work together to improve the care and support system.Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/09/114011/adult-care-debate-in-wales-fails-to-attract-interest-of-young.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/09/114011/adult-care-debate-in-wales-fails-to-attract-interest-of-young.html The debate on the future funding of adult social care in Wales has failed to connect with the younger population who will end up paying for it, according...Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/09/113999/stroke-association-lack-of-stroke-physio-puts-strain-on-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/09/113999/stroke-association-lack-of-stroke-physio-puts-strain-on-carers.htmlA lack of community physiotherapy for stroke patients is putting a strain on carers, the Stoke Association and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy revealed in a report today.Tue, 09 Mar 2010 09:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/08/114000/experts-seek-non-partisan-funding-reform-of-older-peoples-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/08/114000/experts-seek-non-partisan-funding-reform-of-older-peoples-care.html Related stories Political debate...Mon, 08 Mar 2010 16:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/05/113988/integration-birmingham-to-create-315m-health-and-care-budget.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/05/113988/integration-birmingham-to-create-315m-health-and-care-budget.htmlBirmingham Council and its NHS partners are set to create a pooled budget of £315m, establishing what is believed to be one of the country's biggest health and social care partnership arrangements.Fri, 05 Mar 2010 18:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/05/113979/adult-care-faces-cuts-as-councils-protect-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/05/113979/adult-care-faces-cuts-as-councils-protect-childrens-services.htmlMost councils are planning savage cuts to adult social care but intend to protect children's services from financial pain, public finance chiefs have found.Fri, 05 Mar 2010 11:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/05/113959/basw-asked-to-step-down-from-social-work-college-talks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/05/113959/basw-asked-to-step-down-from-social-work-college-talks.htmlThe British Association of Social Workers has been asked to step down from the national college development group amid growing criticism of its decision to launch a breakaway social work college. Fri, 05 Mar 2010 09:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113974/scottish-msps-issue-evidence-call-on-assisted-dying-legislation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113974/scottish-msps-issue-evidence-call-on-assisted-dying-legislation.html A Scottish Parliament committee is calling for written evidence to help shape its examination of legislation on assisted dying. The End of Life Assistance...Thu, 04 Mar 2010 16:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113973/lansley-and-burnham-to-share-platform-at-care-summit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113973/lansley-and-burnham-to-share-platform-at-care-summit.html Age Concern and Help the Aged has scored a coup by persuading health secretary Andy Burnham and Tory shadow health secretary Andrew Lansley to share a platform...Thu, 04 Mar 2010 16:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113803/political-debate-on-care-descends-into-acrimony.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113803/political-debate-on-care-descends-into-acrimony.htmlThe political debate on the future of care has descended into acrimony over the past week.Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113950/free-personal-care-bill-faces-general-election-deadline.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/04/113950/free-personal-care-bill-faces-general-election-deadline.htmlThe government's battle to pass legislation to introduce free personal care at home before the general election looks set to go right down to the wire.Thu, 04 Mar 2010 09:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/03/113946/welsh-tories-slam-failure-to-publish-dementia-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/03/113946/welsh-tories-slam-failure-to-publish-dementia-plan.htmlThe Welsh Conservatives have slammed the country's government for failing to publish its dementia plan, nearly two years after it was promised.Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/03/113920/gps-dementia-tagging-is-it-too-demeaning.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/03/113920/gps-dementia-tagging-is-it-too-demeaning.htmlIs the GPS tagging of people with dementia an infringement of personal liberty or a safe route to empowerment and independence? Vern Pitt examines both sides of the argument Wed, 03 Mar 2010 10:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/01/113936/adass-tells-dh-make-personal-care-part-funded-not-free.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/01/113936/adass-tells-dh-make-personal-care-part-funded-not-free.htmlThe government should part-fund personal care at home for people with high needs rather than make it free to ensure the policy is affordable for councils, the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services has said.Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/01/113929/news-round-up-shannon-matthews-council-cuts-end-of-life-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/03/01/113929/news-round-up-shannon-matthews-council-cuts-end-of-life-care.htmlHeadlines in today's papers include:- Councils consider plans to shed 170,000 public sector jobs; Shannon Matthews kidnap report unlikely until after election; Terminally ill 'unable to die at home through lack of nursing cover'; Legal challenge over Yarl's Wood womenMon, 01 Mar 2010 09:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/26/113927/nutrition-action-plan-delivery-board-to-be-disbanded.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/26/113927/nutrition-action-plan-delivery-board-to-be-disbanded.htmlUser groups have attacked the government's decision to disband the Nutrition Action Plan Delivery Board.Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/26/113916/dh-puts-end-of-life-care-spending-question-to-shas.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/26/113916/dh-puts-end-of-life-care-spending-question-to-shas.htmlThe Department of Health's decision to quiz strategic health authorities on how they spent £286m for end of life care in 2009-10, has been criticised by...Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/26/113906/dh-set-to-announce-future-role-of-adult-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/26/113906/dh-set-to-announce-future-role-of-adult-social-workers.htmlThe Department of Health will publish a statement later today on the future roles and tasks of adult social workers within a personalised care system, care minister Phil Hope has announced. Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/25/113903/free-personal-care-bill-facing-certain-delay.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/25/113903/free-personal-care-bill-facing-certain-delay.htmlLabour peer Lord Lipsey has warned that hostility to Gordon Brown's free personal care bill has grown to the extent that it will not become law before the general election. (Picture: Rex Features)Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/24/113881/libdems-norman-lamb-blames-tories-for-care-talks-breakdown.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/24/113881/libdems-norman-lamb-blames-tories-for-care-talks-breakdown.htmlLiberal Democrat health spokesman Norman Lamb has spoken of his regret that cross-party talks on the long-term funding of adult care have broken down. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/24/113888/cqc-launches-review-of-health-care-provision-in-care-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/24/113888/cqc-launches-review-of-health-care-provision-in-care-homes.htmlThe Care Quality Commission (CQC) has launched a review of health care provision for care home residents.Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/24/113884/adass-carers-should-be-engaged-in-hospital-discharges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/24/113884/adass-carers-should-be-engaged-in-hospital-discharges.htmlCarers are not considered or engaged in the discharge of those they care for from hospital, a report (Carers As Partners in Hospital Discharge) by the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services has found.Wed, 24 Feb 2010 10:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/23/113863/nick-clegg-attacks-labours-free-personal-care-plans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/23/113863/nick-clegg-attacks-labours-free-personal-care-plans.html By Jeremy Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg promised to provide more help for carers today as he attacked Labour's "flawed" free personal care policy. In...Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113860/tories-attacked-for-no-show-at-social-care-reform-meeting.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113860/tories-attacked-for-no-show-at-social-care-reform-meeting.htmlThe Conservatives have been criticised after their refusal to appear at a crunch meeting on the reform of adult social care today, called by health secretary Andy Burnham (pictured). The meeting led to agreement on a set of principles for reform.Fri, 19 Feb 2010 17:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113855/isle-of-wight-faces-care-cuts-protest-despite-inspectors-praise.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113855/isle-of-wight-faces-care-cuts-protest-despite-inspectors-praise.htmlA council praised by inspectors this week for its success in supporting older people to live at home is facing a storm of protest over planned cuts of more than £5m a year in services for vulnerable people.Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113842/news-round-up-national-care-service-cash-for-graduates.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113842/news-round-up-national-care-service-cash-for-graduates.htmlHeadlines in today's papers include:- Andrew Lansley: Government plans would hit 700,000 family carers; Graduates offered cash to retrain as social workers; Barnet's 'easyCouncil' to part privatise planning serviceFri, 19 Feb 2010 09:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113841/carers-uk-urges-more-support-for-carers-to-avoid-crisis.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/19/113841/carers-uk-urges-more-support-for-carers-to-avoid-crisis.htmlCarers UK today called on employers and the state to sign up to a 'social contract' to support carers to help stave off a "tipping point" when families will no longer be able to provide sufficient care for older people.Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/18/113828/councils-ill-prepared-to-meet-ageing-challenge.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/18/113828/councils-ill-prepared-to-meet-ageing-challenge.htmlCouncils are ill-prepared to deal with the financial costs of an ageing population, including savings possible from preventive services, the Audit Commission said today.Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/17/113826/social-care-row-lib-dem-urges-tory-chief-to-attend-conference.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/17/113826/social-care-row-lib-dem-urges-tory-chief-to-attend-conference.htmlLiberal Democrat health spokesperson Norman Lamb has urged Tory opposite number Andrew Lansley to attend this Friday's conference on social care funding reform, to help get efforts to forge a cross-party consensus back on track.Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/17/113822/news-round-up-assisted-dying-death-tax-edlington-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/17/113822/news-round-up-assisted-dying-death-tax-edlington-case.htmlHeadlines in today's papers include:- Torture boys' sentence 'not too lenient'; The confessions of a mercy killer; Seventeen million could have to pay 'death tax', Tories claim; Yarl's Wood children face 'extreme distress'Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/15/113777/adult-safeguarding-boards-have-membership-and-funding-problems.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/15/113777/adult-safeguarding-boards-have-membership-and-funding-problems.htmlGovernment plans to put safeguarding boards on a statutory footing will need to tackle a series of funding and membership problems that currently limit impact, finds Vern Pitt Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/15/113805/news-round-up-care-funding-row-nspcc-centre-closures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/15/113805/news-round-up-care-funding-row-nspcc-centre-closures.htmlHeadlines in today's papers include: Cross-party deal on elderly care in tatters after three parties engage in row live on TV; Charities demand an end to political point-scoring as care crisis looms; NSPCC to shut local centres under restructuring planMon, 15 Feb 2010 10:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113802/adass-lead-dementia-money-not-being-spent-as-desired.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113802/adass-lead-dementia-money-not-being-spent-as-desired.htmlThe £150m identified for primary care trusts to implement the national dementia strategy from 2009-11 has not been spent on its desired purpose, a local government leader has claimed. Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113796/news-round-up-baby-p-legacy-means-more-work-suffolk-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113796/news-round-up-baby-p-legacy-means-more-work-suffolk-cuts.htmlAlso in today's papers:- Social services 'failed autistic boy' and Mandelson denies Labour abandoning pledges to increase spendingFri, 12 Feb 2010 12:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113793/cqc-to-hold-talks-on-joining-up-health-and-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113793/cqc-to-hold-talks-on-joining-up-health-and-social-care.html The Care Quality Commission is set to hold discussions with stakeholders over the coming months on how it intends to encourage greater levels of joined-up...Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113785/are-personal-budgets-more-cost-effective.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/12/113785/are-personal-budgets-more-cost-effective.htmlTo what extent can self-directed support meet the need for councils to save money while improving services, ask Mithran Samuel and Jeremy Dunning Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113772/andy-burnham-approves-care-trust-for-blackburn-with-darwen.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113772/andy-burnham-approves-care-trust-for-blackburn-with-darwen.htmlHealth secretary Andy Burnham has approved the creation of a "care trust plus" to integrate health and social care commissioning in Blackburn with Darwen.Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113768/cqc-health-and-socal-care-integration-can-save-2bn-a-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113768/cqc-health-and-socal-care-integration-can-save-2bn-a-year.html Improved joint working between health and social care to reduce emergency hospital admissions for pensioners could help save £2bn annually from NHS budgets...Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113764/councils-fail-to-tell-service-users-about-personal-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113764/councils-fail-to-tell-service-users-about-personal-budgets.htmlMany councils in England are failing to provide potential service users with adequate information about personal budgets – nearly two years into the personalisation agenda.Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113766/news-round-up-care-plan-row-inheritance-tax-playgroup-probe.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113766/news-round-up-care-plan-row-inheritance-tax-playgroup-probe.htmlMore than 70 leaders of social care throughout England are warning that the Government’s plans to provide free home care are flawed, unfunded and will force cuts to current services.Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113767/care-plan-row-inheritance-tax-playgroup-sex-assault-probe.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113767/care-plan-row-inheritance-tax-playgroup-sex-assault-probe.htmlMore than 70 leaders of social care throughout England are warning that the Government’s plans to provide free home care are flawed, unfunded and will force cuts to current services.Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113765/councillors-condemn-gordon-browns-free-care-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/10/113765/councillors-condemn-gordon-browns-free-care-plan.htmlLead councillors from over half of England's local authorities today condemned the government's free personal care plans in an open letter to The Times that dubbed the proposals 'unclear and unfunded'.Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113763/labour-rules-out-20000-death-tax.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113763/labour-rules-out-20000-death-tax.htmlThe government is thought to be considering introducing an inheritance levy on people's estates as a way of paying for long-term care. It has strongly...Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113755/gordon-brown-fails-to-satisfy-adass-on-free-care-costs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113755/gordon-brown-fails-to-satisfy-adass-on-free-care-costs.htmlPrime minister Gordon Brown today defended government plans for free personal care at home for people with high needs but failed to satisfy critics over costs of reformTue, 09 Feb 2010 14:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113761/scottish-government-launches-personalisation-strategy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113761/scottish-government-launches-personalisation-strategy.html The Scottish government has issued a consultative 10-year strategy to roll out personalisation...Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113758/news-round-up-assisted-dying-care-levy-asylum-hunger-strike.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/09/113758/news-round-up-assisted-dying-care-levy-asylum-hunger-strike.htmlOther headlines in today's papers:- Inheritance levy to fund social care being considered by ministers; Margo MacDonald's Bill 'would encourage suicide tourism to Scotland'; Hunger strike at detention centreTue, 09 Feb 2010 08:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/08/113754/radical-reform-could-stave-off-adult-care-cost-explosion.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/08/113754/radical-reform-could-stave-off-adult-care-cost-explosion.htmlRadical reforms to adult social care could contain spending at close to present levels and reduce health and benefits expenditure, despite the impact of...Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/08/113747/news-round-up-elderly-care-costs-vetting-scheme-budget-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/08/113747/news-round-up-elderly-care-costs-vetting-scheme-budget-cuts.htmlHeadlines in today's papers include:- Iain Duncan Smith warns of elderly care costs for public finances; McKellen speaks out against vetting scheme; Union: 3000 jobs will go with cuts from council budgetsMon, 08 Feb 2010 09:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/04/113730/lord-warner-calls-for-inquiry-into-assisted-dying-law.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/04/113730/lord-warner-calls-for-inquiry-into-assisted-dying-law.htmlFormer health minister Lord Warner has called for the government to set up an independent inquiry into the law on assisted suicide legislation, to clear...Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/04/113729/dementia-strategy-in-action-in-croydon.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/04/113729/dementia-strategy-in-action-in-croydon.htmlThe national dementia strategy is one year old but a key study has found progress is slow. Vern Pitt visited Croydon - which has long been held up as a leader in dementia care - to ask professionals and carers about how the strategy's objectives and the challenges posed by the condition are being tackled Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/04/113728/geoff-ettridge-on-local-authority-cuts-via-the-back-door.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/04/113728/geoff-ettridge-on-local-authority-cuts-via-the-back-door.htmlGeoff Ettridge pinpoints practices used by councils to cut costs by hidden means, practices which can cross the border into dishonesty and run counter to principles of local democracy Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/03/113713/cqc-councils-to-face-tougher-test-but-no-rating-in-2010-11.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/03/113713/cqc-councils-to-face-tougher-test-but-no-rating-in-2010-11.htmlEnglish councils would face a tougher assessment of performance but no overall rating in 2010-11, if consultative plans issued by the Care Quality Commission yesterday come to fruition.Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/03/113712/alzheimers-research-trust-dementia-impact-higher-than-ever.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/03/113712/alzheimers-research-trust-dementia-impact-higher-than-ever.htmlDementia costs the UK economy £23bn a year and affects 820,000 people, according to research out today which found that the impact of the disease was far higher than previously thought and that research funding was far too low.Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/01/113694/labour-peer-warns-gordon-brown-over-fate-of-free-care-bill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/02/01/113694/labour-peer-warns-gordon-brown-over-fate-of-free-care-bill.htmlFormer health minister Lord Warner has warned prime minister Gordon Brown that he "will have a shock" if he believes key social care legislation will pass smoothly through the House of Lords.Mon, 01 Feb 2010 15:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/30/113683/adass-dh-has-significantly-underestimated-free-care-cost.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/30/113683/adass-dh-has-significantly-underestimated-free-care-cost.htmlAccording to Jenny Owen and the Association of Directors of Adult Services, the cost of providing free personal care could be double what the government estimates.Sat, 30 Jan 2010 00:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113682/msps-to-debate-bill-on-opening-men-only-care-home-to-women.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113682/msps-to-debate-bill-on-opening-men-only-care-home-to-women.html A care home for men with drink-related mental health problems is to expand its services to women for the first time in its 150-year history - through...Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113680/charities-tell-peers-to-back-personal-care-at-home-bill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113680/charities-tell-peers-to-back-personal-care-at-home-bill.htmlA coalition of charities has urged peers to back government legislation to provide free personal care at home for people with high needs, when it enters the House of Lords next week.Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113673/older-people-early-intervention-schemes-lead-to-better-health.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113673/older-people-early-intervention-schemes-lead-to-better-health.htmlSave money and improve lives? The NHS and councils' early intervention scheme has, reports Jeremy Dunning Fri, 29 Jan 2010 11:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113668/lga-councils-should-control-primary-health.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/29/113668/lga-councils-should-control-primary-health.html Councils should have greater control over the running of health services, the Local Government Association said today. In a consultative document,...Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113667/hertfordshire-falls-unit-helps-avoid-unnecessary-ae-call-outs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113667/hertfordshire-falls-unit-helps-avoid-unnecessary-ae-call-outs.htmlSocial worker involvement with emergency services can avoid trips to A&E, a Hertfordshire pilot has found. Julie Griffiths reports Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113651/jrf-pilots-equity-release-scheme-for-cash-poor-homeowners.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113651/jrf-pilots-equity-release-scheme-for-cash-poor-homeowners.htmlOlder homeowners on benefits have long shunned equity release schemes but a project is helping them tap their housing wealth to boost their independence, writes Jeremy DunningThu, 28 Jan 2010 16:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113664/help-the-aged-and-age-concern-attacks-ageism-ban-exemptions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113664/help-the-aged-and-age-concern-attacks-ageism-ban-exemptions.htmlAge Concern and Help the Aged has criticised government proposals to allow exemptions from the ban on age discrimination for health and social care under...Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113647/social-enterprise-urges-online-markets-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/28/113647/social-enterprise-urges-online-markets-for-social-care.htmlThe government and Care Quality Commission have been urged to help create online marketplaces where care users and providers can trade directly with each other, as part of the personalisation agenda.Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/27/113658/stephen-burke-free-care-bill-must-be-start-of-radical-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/27/113658/stephen-burke-free-care-bill-must-be-start-of-radical-reforms.htmlLegislation to introduce free personal care at home for people with acute needs must be the start of a radical reform of the...Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/26/113654/nhs-chief-answers-criticisms-over-lack-of-priority-for-dementia.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/26/113654/nhs-chief-answers-criticisms-over-lack-of-priority-for-dementia.htmlNHS chief executive David Nicholson has answered criticisms over the government's failure to make dementia a priority for the health service. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/26/113656/wales-legislates-to-improve-information-for-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/26/113656/wales-legislates-to-improve-information-for-carers.htmlThe Welsh government has introduced legislation to improve the lives of carers through improved information. The proposed Carers Strategies (Wales) Measure would place duties on the NHS and local authorities in Wales to work together to provide information for carers and consult them on services that they or the people they care for receive.Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/26/113646/mandatory-adult-safeguarding-boards-on-the-cards.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/26/113646/mandatory-adult-safeguarding-boards-on-the-cards.htmlThe government last week announced plans to make multi-agency adult safeguarding boards mandatory by putting them on a statutory footing.Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/25/113633/professor-to-lead-national-dementia-strategy-implementation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/25/113633/professor-to-lead-national-dementia-strategy-implementation.htmlAn academic and old age psychiatrist has been appointed to lead the implementation of the Department of Health's national dementia strategy for England.Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/22/113631/cambridgeshire-plans-3.8m-cuts-in-adult-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/22/113631/cambridgeshire-plans-3.8m-cuts-in-adult-care.htmlCambridgeshire Council could be set to cut its budget for adult social care by £3.8m. Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/22/113626/personalisation-lead-councils-must-urge-providers-to-innovate.htmlhttp://