Services
Tendercare was developed to meet prevailing registration standards from the outset, and as extension and improvement work has been carried out, this has been designed and built to bring the standards of the home right up to date.
This section explains the services that Tendercare has to offer service users.
Range of services
Safety
At Tendercare we place great importance on safety matters. All equipment and furniture throughout the building is flame resistant or retardant. Our efficient fire alarm system is maintained regularly and staff receive specialist training.
Security
We treat the security of our service users as a very important issue. Our main front door is locked and a keypad alarm is set during the day and night. to prevent unwanted intrusion in to the home. To ensure the safety of our service users our external fire exit doors are linked to the staff call system. We have installed movement reactive lighting to the sides and rear of the property and a CCTV system in the building so that we are immediately aware of any intruders and safety monitoring.
There are, of course, no restrictions on service users who can come and go whenever they wish. However, we do ask that they notify staff of their intentions.
Housekeeping
Our housekeeping service includes for example: the cleaning of all communal areas, the cleaning of a service user’s private bedroom at a time that is convenient, laundry, and general maintenance.
Emergency Call Alarm
The emergency call alarm service aims to bring help to individual service users as soon as possible after the alarm being activated. Our call system can only be cancelled at the point of calling, which ensures a quick and safe response. The system also enables a member of staff to summon further help in cases of emergency, without leaving the service user.
Although the emergency call alarm system is primarily for emergencies it can also be used to call a member of staff for other services such as help with toileting, or request for a cup of tea. Whatever the reason the alarm is activated staff will respond quickly and deal with any presenting problem.
Meals
Tendercare aims to provide a high standard of culinary service with the presentation of good wholesome meals that provide a balanced and nutritious diet.
We plan a four-week rotational menu, which is posted on the notice board. Each daily menu shows at least two choices of main meal, but we will always have available alternatives to the printed menu. Every morning the cook discusses with each service user their particular wish for meals that day.
Special diets for cultural, religious or medical reasons are catered for. Drinks and snacks are available at any time of the day or night.
Personal Care
Service users needs are central to our service night and day. Staff will always address a service user in the way that they would like using the name they prefer. We have a dedicated, skilled staff group who understand the complex needs of individual service users and deliver care services in a sensitive and caring manner. We operate a ‘keyworker system’ involving only our care team, who are responsible for completion and maintenance of service user care plans.
We encourage service users, where appropriate, as part of their care plan, to be actively involved in looking after their own bedroom.
Library Books
We have our own supply of large print books provided by Sandwell Library service, and access audio and videotapes from the same service at the request of particular service users. The home also orders and retains a stock of books and magazines for our service users to access as they please.
Transport
To respond to the individual needs of our service users we access local taxi services as and when required. Some of our service users also make use of the ‘Ring-and-Ride‘ service.
Recreation
Age is no barrier to recreational activities. We have a stock of card and board games including draughts, dominoes and bingo.
A member of staff regularly provides stimulation and physical exercises for those service, users who wish to take Periodically we engage professional entertainers to put on part. shows and sing-a-longs. We also organise trips out to go shopping, or just buy fish and chips!
Hairdressing
A professional hairdresser visits the home and provides an excellent and reasonably priced service to all our service users.
Service users have the choice of remaining with their own General Practitioner (GP), if this is practicable, or they may wish to register with one of the local practices. At present our service users are registered with local surgeries, all of which provide a very good service to the home.
Health
An NHS chiropodist visits the home as and when required, but private arrangements can be made at an appropriate charge. A private chiropodist visits regular. A local optician and local dentist both visit the home on an annual basis to provide check ups and tests. If any service user should need physiotherapy this would be arranged via their GP.