Agenda item

The Committee are asked to note the contents of the report.

The Committee received a report from the Strategic Commissioning Lead on the results of an audit of skills and knowledge of care home staff around dementia.  The Committee were informed that there is a national perception that skills, practice and knowledge around dementia in care homes could be less well developed than is desirable.  It had therefore been decided that Havering would carry out an audit of all residential and nursing homes into which the authority placed individuals.

The questionnaire was carried out over the telephone with managers and face to face with staff by a qualified social worker.  It was decided that the manager of each home would be interviewed and approximately one member of staff for every 15 residents.

Of the 34 homes approached, 30 homes completed the questionnaires; responses were received from 29 Managers, 26 Senior Carers/ Team Leaders, 32 Care Assistants and 11 Nurses.

The results of the audit found that 84% of those interviewed had worked in the care industry for more than 4 years; therefore the investment in training would be worthwhile as despite the perception of poor working conditions and low wages, staff retention compared favourably with domiciliary care agencies which suffered from persistent job vacancies.

The qualifications held by staff was audited and it was found that there were 85% with NVQ2 or above; this was very encouraging as was the personal belief that they had an understanding and knowledge of mental health.

The Committee noted that of 1057 residents, 765 were perceived by staff to have dementia, of which 609 had a formal diagnosis.  98% of staff stated that they would seek a diagnosis if they suspected a resident of developing dementia but only 50% knew how to contact specialist dementia teams or other teams capable of intervention.  Officers explained that this was being worked on through the Dementia Pathway to improve information for staff.

Whilst 89% of staff had received induction training, there was no specific training in dementia, and only 50% of managers stated that dementia experience was expected for staff.  The Committee were concerned about this as staff would essentially be dealing with dementia from day one.

Officers stated that the results of the audit were better than they had expected however there was room for improvement in some areas.  There was scope for volunteers to help with dementia issues, and the dementia pathway was looking at good practice and peer working.  All areas of improvements would go back to the Dementia Strategy Group for action.

Members asked about the four homes who had not taken part and why.  Officers explained that one home was in the process of being redeveloped and could not spare the time and the other three felt it was a waste of their time.

Members asked about the dementia training that was available, and if it was just a basic course.  Officers explained that the training was a couple of half days but was value for money.  There were two levels available, a basic awareness, and then a more in depth level.  Members asked if the training included recognising that dementia symptoms can also present through other illnesses.  Officer assured members that the training did address this and that all other possible illnesses were discounted first.

Members asked if there was training available for members of the public.  Officers explained that Age Concern and the Alzheimer’s Society would be able to provide details to members of the public and carer’s training was also available and signposted through Age Concern. The Committee agreed that with the right diagnosis the right avenue of support can be put in place.

The Committee noted the report and asked that a review of progress be brought back to the Committee in 6 -8 months.