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Make sure you take advantage of the Learning and Development Support Scheme’s offer of free training and qualifications, outlined in this week’s issue…
We do our best to keep the content and structure of our PEN website up-to-date in these fast-changing times and your suggestions on how to improve the website are always welcome.
REMINDER: Engagement on ASC Care Home Contract (ALL AGES) and Proposed Older Persons’ Fee Model
Devon County Council is inviting all care home providers to share feedback on:
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ASC Care Home Contract (All Ages)
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Proposed Fee Model for Older Persons (65+) Placements
Thank you to those providers who have sent in their feedback so far. Engagement open until midnight, Sunday 21 September 2025
Visit the Engagement Page for full details ASC Care Home Contract & Older Persons’ Fee Model - August Engagement 2025 - Provider Engagement Network and submit feedback via the feedback form or email socialcarebusinessrelationsmailbox@devon.gov.uk (subject: Care Home Engagement).
Engagement FAQs Now Available
We’ve compiled all questions and answers from the February/March engagement, along with new queries raised during the current round, into one easy-to-access FAQ resource. Click here to view the Engagement FAQ
This resource is designed to support providers’ understanding and help clarify any outstanding questions.
Save the Date: Upcoming Online Care Home Forum
Tuesday 16 September 14:00–15:30
Look out for an email with the registration link to follow soon! Be sure to register to obtain the meeting link.
Agenda Highlights:
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ASC Workforce Dataset (ASC-WDS) & Learning Development Support Scheme (LDSS) Presented by Matthew Errington, Locality Manager – Skills for Care (Northwest)
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Reflections from the In-Person Provider Engagement Meeting (11 September)
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Group discussions
Reminder – Opportunity to join the Provider Information Resources Group
Help co-produce provider guidance on the fee model and placement process. Next meeting: Thursday 18 September, 1:00–2:00pm (via MS Teams)
Interested in joining? Email: socialcarebusinessrelationsmailbox@devon.gov.uk
Unlock Free Training for Your Staff with LDSS
The Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) is offering free training and qualifications to help Health and Social Care businesses upskill their staff without incurring additional costs. This opportunity could revolutionise professional development providing employees with the tools they need to excel in their roles.
A Diverse Range of Courses
The LDSS program boasts an impressive array of courses designed to cater to different professional needs. Among the offerings are:
- Level 2 Care Certificate: Essential for those in the healthcare sector, this certificate ensures that staff meet the fundamental standards of care.
- Digital Leadership Programme: Perfect for those looking to enhance their leadership skills in the digital age.
- Delivering Outstanding Care: Aimed at improving the quality of care provided by staff.
- Mental Health First Aid: Equips employees with the skills to support mental health in the workplace.
- iCQ Level 2 in Understanding Autism: Provides valuable insights into supporting individuals with autism.
- iCQ Level 2 in Principles of Medication Administration: Essential for those involved in the administration of medication.
Why This Matters
By taking advantage of the LDSS's free training initiative, businesses can ensure their staff remain at the forefront of industry standards. Not only does this enhance the quality of service provided, but it also boosts employee morale and retention.
Win-win for Employers and Employees
Businesses are encouraged to sign up for the LDSS program and start reaping the benefits of these comprehensive training courses. With the potential to save money while significantly enhancing staff skills, this initiative is a win-win for employers and employees alike.
For more information and to sign up, visit https://www.devon.gov.uk/providerengagementnetwork/workforce-development/adult-social-care-workforce-data-set/
Capacity Tracker Mandatory Submission Window is Currently Open until 15 September
Please note that the Capacity Tracker data submission mandatory window opened on Monday 8 September, the window will remain open for mandatory updates until 23:59pm on Monday 15 September
Please remember there is a statutory obligation which requires all registered providers to submit data via the Capacity Tracker between the 8th and 14th day of every month (or next working day). Providers risk being issued with a Notice of Intent if they do not update mandatory data 3 months consecutively or 4 times within a 12-month rolling period
Good News Story
Storybook Magic: Winnie the Pooh Lunch Delights Edenmore Residents
What began as a simple Mad Hatter’s Tea Party for World Book Lovers Day in 2024 has led to the creation of The Edenmore Book Club, led by Home Admin Sarah Dullaghan, offering moments of connection and comfort for residents, fondly referred to as family members.
Each book club meeting involves Sarah reading a chapter of a book aloud, surrounded by themed decorations and food throughout the home that the whole team get involved with! In the past, family members have enjoyed timeless classics such as Peter Rabbit, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Paddington, with the latest example being Winnie the Pooh for World Book Day.
A Community Effort
This year’s Winnie the Pooh afternoon was made even more special with generous donations from the Ilfracombe community, with Winnie the Pooh soft toys being gifted to the home. Many participants shared how the event brought back ‘happy memories’ of reading Winnie the Pooh to their own children and grandchildren. Sarah reflected on the impact of these gatherings, saying, ‘Their smiles and reactions brought the story to life for me!’’
More Than Just a Book Club
The Edenmore Book Club is about more than just reading, it’s a space for sharing stories, reminiscing, and creating meaningful moments together. Held in the main lounge, it remains easily accessible to all, where family members can choose to be involved in the activities, reinforcing the home’s commitment to recognising the values, beliefs, and identity of each person who calls Edenmore Nursing Home their home.
For more about life at Edenmore Nursing Home, visit: www.edenmorenursinghome.com
Remember to share your good news stories in this newsletter
Has your support helped transform someone’s life? Have you got innovative practice to share? Send us your celebratory photos and words and we will help share good practice.
Revisit previous good news stories
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