http://www.communitycare.co.uken-gbFri, 10 Feb 2012 17:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/10/117978/day-centre-and-day-support-services-for-older-people-london-borough-of-haringey.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/10/117978/day-centre-and-day-support-services-for-older-people-london-borough-of-haringey.html The future provision of Day Centre and Day Support Services for Older People in the London Borough of Haringey The Council is looking at the future design of day centres and related support services for older people and people with dementia and are seeking only the views of the market at this stage. This exercise involves three day services: • One specialist centre for people with dementia located in Tottenham and one near to Crouch End/Alexandra Palace. • The Council also provides a more generic centre for older people with disabilities and complex needs, also located in Tottenham. Residents currently using the three day centres receive adult social care funding in accordance with the council’s fair access to care criteria. Each centre is able to offer approximately 20 places a day and between them they support nearly 120 adults. The council is exploring the redesign of these services and this may include looking at the possibility of suppliers, other than the...Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:36:00 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/2012/02/10/117976/how-security-guards-help-keep-social-workers-safe-on-home-visits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/10/117976/how-security-guards-help-keep-social-workers-safe-on-home-visits.html One of the most memorable moments in the second episode of BBC Two’s Protecting Our Children programme came less than two minutes in. As Annie Semphill, the Bristol social worker, arrived outside the home of Shaun and Marva, she met with the two security guards who would accompany her on the visit to discuss the couple’s ability to care for their then unborn child. The security guards kept resurfacing too. Semphill’s visits to Shaun, who has a history of unpredictable violence, always had a burly, cross-armed guard close by. The use of security guards raised some eyebrows during Community Care’s live discussion as the documentary was aired with reactions ranging from shock at their use to wishes that their local authority would do the same (see box below). In a blog for Community Care a couple of days later, Semphill expressed surprise at people’s interest in the use of security, explaining that “it did make me feel safe to have two large uniformed men standing behind me as I...Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:41:00 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/2012/02/09/117975/social-worker-suspended-for-not-reporting-underage-sex-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117975/social-worker-suspended-for-not-reporting-underage-sex-case.htmlA social worker has been suspended for not reporting a case of sexual activity between two children aged under 13, in breach of national child protection guidance. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117973/family-courts-plans-risk-miscarriages-of-justice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117973/family-courts-plans-risk-miscarriages-of-justice.htmlSocial workers and children's guardians have condemned "nonsensical" government plans for a six-month limit on care cases, warning the deadline could lead to miscarriages of justice.Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117972/record-child-referrals-push-social-workers-to-breaking-point.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117972/record-child-referrals-push-social-workers-to-breaking-point.htmlSocial workers are struggling to deal with record numbers of children entering care and some have become so stressed they are leaving the profession, it has been claimed. (Pic model released: Voisin/Phanie/Rex Features) Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117970/cafcass-reveals-record-care-applications-for-january.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117970/cafcass-reveals-record-care-applications-for-january.htmlCare applications to family courts body Cafcass are continuing to soar, according to the latest statistics, with record numbers of referrals made last month. (Pic: Voisin/Phanie/Rex Features) Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117971/nhs-must-protect-lives-of-all-psychiatric-patients-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117971/nhs-must-protect-lives-of-all-psychiatric-patients-at-risk.htmlPsychiatric hospitals risk breaching human rights law if they do not take action to protect the lives of patients admitted informally, the Supreme Court has ruled in a landmark judgement today. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117969/cqc-personalisation-lacking-in-winterbourne-style-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117969/cqc-personalisation-lacking-in-winterbourne-style-services.htmlMany learning disability hospitals and care homes are failing to provide person-centred care, the Care Quality Commission has found in its national review triggered by the Winterbourne View case. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117968/essex-council-unveils-plans-for-social-impact-bonds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117968/essex-council-unveils-plans-for-social-impact-bonds.htmlEssex council has confirmed plans to use social impact bonds to fund intensive and community-based work with families and children on the edge of care or custody. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:33:00 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/2012/02/07/117966/eileen-munro-takes-new-role-at-the-college-of-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/07/117966/eileen-munro-takes-new-role-at-the-college-of-social-work.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro has been appointed transitional chair of The College of Social Work’s children’s faculty, it was announced today. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/06/117963/short-breaks-for-children-with-disabilities-surrey-county-council.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/06/117963/short-breaks-for-children-with-disabilities-surrey-county-council.htmlSurrey County Council intends to undertake a tendering exercise for short break services to be delivered from their facility at Applewood, Chetwode Road, Tadworth, Surrey, KT20 5PLMon, 06 Feb 2012 16:49:00 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/2012/02/03/117961/dementia-advisors-hampshire-county-council-adult-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/03/117961/dementia-advisors-hampshire-county-council-adult-services.html HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ADULT SERVICES DEPARTMENT OLDER PERSONS MENTAL HEALTH: DEMENTIA ADVISORS Following a successful Dementia Advisor Pilot scheme in Hampshire, the Council is widening the service with a new contract for Dementia Advisors county wide. Our population is aging and the prevalence of dementia doubles with every five year increase in age, in 2012 the number of people with Dementia is expected to be 18,905 and this is expected to rise to 21,311 by 2017. Dementia is defined as a syndrome which may be caused by a number of illnesses in which there is progressive decline in multiple areas of function. It is primarily associated with older people but there are a significant number of people who develop dementia in earlier life. Applications are invited from suitably qualified service providers or organisations that have an understanding of working with people with dementia and providing information, advice and guidance services, tailor made to meet individual...Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/03/117960/personalisation-wrongly-used-to-devalue-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/03/117960/personalisation-wrongly-used-to-devalue-social-workers.htmlAdult social work is being 'devalued' by cuts and mistaken ideas about personalisation, The College of Social Work warned today as it launched a campaign to champion adults' professionals. Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/02/117953/improving-access-to-social-care-for-adults-with-autism.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/02/117953/improving-access-to-social-care-for-adults-with-autism.htmlNew support from the Social Care Institute for Excellence Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:24:00 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/2012/02/01/117957/ofsted-well-supported-social-workers-improve-child-outcomes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117957/ofsted-well-supported-social-workers-improve-child-outcomes.htmlSocial workers who are supported by “accessible” and “visible” senior managers do improve outcomes for children, according to Ofsted.Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117954/lords-vote-to-reject-50-cuts-to-disabled-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117954/lords-vote-to-reject-50-cuts-to-disabled-children.htmlDisability campaigners are celebrating today after peers from across the House of Lords voted yesterday to reject a 50% cut to disabled children’s benefits. Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:02:00 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/2012/01/31/117951/ofsted-to-give-no-notice-on-child-protection-inspections.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/31/117951/ofsted-to-give-no-notice-on-child-protection-inspections.htmlLocal authorities will be given no notice before their child protection services are inspected when Ofsted’s new inspection framework comes into force in May. Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117950/test-event.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117950/test-event.html23 September 2012 Grosvenor house londonMon, 30 Jan 2012 14:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117949/council-fined-for-sending-childrens-reports-to-wrong-people.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117949/council-fined-for-sending-childrens-reports-to-wrong-people.htmlMidlothian council has been fined £140,000 for sending children’s social services reports to the wrong recipients on five occasions.Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:25:00 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/2012/01/27/117946/birmingham-appoints-new-director-of-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117946/birmingham-appoints-new-director-of-childrens-services.htmlBirmingham council has appointed the head of an ‘outstanding’ social services department in Lincolnshire to help transform its troubled children’s services.Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117945/call-for-national-inquiry-following-second-child-custody-death.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117945/call-for-national-inquiry-following-second-child-custody-death.htmlTwo teenagers who were serving time at young offender institutions in England have died in the space of a week. Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:45:00 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/2012/01/25/117943/social-work-raises-parliamentary-profile-with-cross-party-group.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/25/117943/social-work-raises-parliamentary-profile-with-cross-party-group.htmlSocial work has raised its profile in parliament with the launch yesterday of an all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on the profession. Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:55:00 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/2012/01/24/117706/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-observation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117706/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-observation.htmlObservation What is the technique? When would I use this? What resources do I need? What do I do? What am I looking for? Warnings Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117726/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-drawing.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117726/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-drawing.htmlDrawing What is the technique? There are a number of techniques to try with children that can be facilitated with just some coloured pencils...Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117728/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-dolls.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117728/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-dolls.html What is the technique? Using dolls or animals to represent people in the child's life, you begin a story and then ask the child to "show...Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117727/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-games.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/24/117727/social-work-tools-for-direct-work-with-children-games.htmlWhat is the technique? This technique is a simple board game for two players. It helps develop a trusting relationship with the child because...Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:45:00 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/2012/01/23/117939/half-of-social-workers-feel-powerless-to-stop-neglect.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/23/117939/half-of-social-workers-feel-powerless-to-stop-neglect.htmlHalf of social workers feel powerless to stop children being neglected because of high thresholds and inadequate resources. (Image: Rex Features)Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/19/117938/independent-negotiators-to-restart-baswcollege-talks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/19/117938/independent-negotiators-to-restart-baswcollege-talks.htmlThe British Association of Social Workers (BASW) and the College of Social Work are to reopen talks on a possible merger. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117937/delivering-housing-adaptations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117937/delivering-housing-adaptations.html 07 March 2012 Inmarsat, London With increasing demand for adaptations and rising expectations of customers who rightly want a tailored and high quality service, how can you establish a first-class service which delivers adaptations that meet their needs? This conference is an opportunity to get ahead of the game in proactive asset management and assistive technology while achieving value for money. Our programme will help you navigate the new health landscape and suggest new ways to engage effectively with local partners. Key topics include: Financing adaptations – latest on the Disabled Facilities Grant and alternative funding options Advances in assistive technology – telehealth and telecare Proactive asset management - how to make best use of existing adapted stock and re-lets New opportunities for Home Improvement Agencies and Handypersons Services Working in partnership for improved efficiency and cost-effective outcomes The sector’s link to health How to deliver...Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117934/council-pays-1m-damages-for-shocking-child-abuse-failings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117934/council-pays-1m-damages-for-shocking-child-abuse-failings.htmlEssex council has paid damages of almost £1m to four siblings it failed to protect from years of parental abuse, Community Care has learned. (Pic: posed by model, Nigel R. Barklie/Rex Features)Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117935/councils-face-hidden-army-of-child-abuse-damage-claimants.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117935/councils-face-hidden-army-of-child-abuse-damage-claimants.htmlLocal authorities could be hit by a “hidden army” of people seeking damages for historic child abuse cases, lawyers have warned.Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:48:00 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/2012/01/18/117933/care-provider-fined-for-leaving-staff-at-risk-of-violence.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117933/care-provider-fined-for-leaving-staff-at-risk-of-violence.htmlA care provider has been fined £14,000 for leaving staff at risk of violence from a client (Image: Rex).Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:01:00 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/2012/01/17/117930/budget-cuts-lead-to-child-sexual-exploitation-fears.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/17/117930/budget-cuts-lead-to-child-sexual-exploitation-fears.htmlTackling child sexual exploitation is already slipping off the agenda in some local areas due to funding pressures and budget cuts, research by Barnardo’s has revealed.Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/17/117928/500000-to-lose-out-on-disability-living-allowance.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/17/117928/500000-to-lose-out-on-disability-living-allowance.htmlHalf a million disabled people would lose out on benefits through the government's reform to disability living allowance, it revealed today. (Pic: Voisin/Phanie/Rex Features) Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/16/117926/government-waters-down-disability-living-allowance-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/16/117926/government-waters-down-disability-living-allowance-cuts.htmlThe government has watered down its controversial cuts to disabilty living allowance (DLA) by dropping plans to double the period after the onset of disability before which people can qualify for the benefit (Image: Rex). Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/16/117927/going-into-care-early-reduces-risk-of-offending-study-finds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/16/117927/going-into-care-early-reduces-risk-of-offending-study-finds.htmlEarly entry into care, stable placements and purposeful activity can significantly reduce a child’s risk of turning to crime, research published today has found. Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:35:00 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/2012/01/13/117924/user-received-misguided-care-before-he-killed-grandfather.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/13/117924/user-received-misguided-care-before-he-killed-grandfather.htmlProfessionals missed six opportunities to assess a patient under the Mental Health Act (MHA) and provided him with 'misguided care' in the three months before he killed his grandfather, a review has concluded. Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/13/117925/thousands-of-restraint-victims-could-seek-compensation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/13/117925/thousands-of-restraint-victims-could-seek-compensation.htmlChildren who were unlawfully restrained in privately-run secure training centres over a ten-year period could pursue compensation claims, according to a high court judge.Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:59:00 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/2012/01/12/117921/half-a-million-uk-children-are-unhappy-study-reveals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/12/117921/half-a-million-uk-children-are-unhappy-study-reveals.htmlHalf a million children across the UK are unhappy with their lives, according to research published today by The Children’s Society. Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117918/cafcass-how-we-screen-200-private-law-cases-a-day.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117918/cafcass-how-we-screen-200-private-law-cases-a-day.htmlOn a typical day, at least 200 private law applications will arrive at Cafcass’ national business centre (NBC) in Coventry. Every application - from a parent or guardian - will be different, but each will represent a child who has experienced family breakdown. Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117920/debt-ridden-social-workers-turning-to-payday-loans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117920/debt-ridden-social-workers-turning-to-payday-loans.htmlGrowing numbers of social workers are falling financial difficulties, with some resorting to high-interest payday loans, according to a support charity. (Pic: Image Source/Rex Features)Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117917/the-independent-visitor-contract-southwark-council.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117917/the-independent-visitor-contract-southwark-council.html EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR THE INDEPENDENT VISITOR CONTRACT Southwark Council is seeking to invite competitive tenders for the Independent Visitor contract. This is a Children’s Services Department contract for a provision of the Independent Visitor service to children looked after by the authority in and outside of the borough. Providers will be responsible for the recruitment, training and appointment of committed adult volunteers to visit, mentor and befriend children looked after aged 6-18. It is anticipated that the contract will commence on 1 October 2012 and will be for an initial period of 3 years, with an option to extend for two further periods of twelve months at the discretion of the council. The annual value of the contract will not exceed £55,000. It is the Council’s view that the provisions of the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 as well as the European Acquired Rights Directive 2001/23/EC of 12 March 2001 - TUPE will...Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/10/117915/government-concealed-scale-of-opposition-to-benefit-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/10/117915/government-concealed-scale-of-opposition-to-benefit-reform.htmlCampaigners have accused the government of giving a misleading account of the true extent of opposition to disability benefit reform (Pic: Voisin/Phanie/Rex Features)Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/10/117916/ten-days-notice-on-adoption-inspections-mooted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/10/117916/ten-days-notice-on-adoption-inspections-mooted.htmlAdoption support agencies could be given just 10 days’ notice before an Ofsted inspection, rather than the current eight-week period, under proposals outlined today.Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/09/117912/dont-forget-needs-of-older-children-in-care-urges-charity.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/09/117912/dont-forget-needs-of-older-children-in-care-urges-charity.htmlUrgent attention must be given to older children who become looked-after, Barnardo’s has warned, as new data reveals high numbers of older children entered care for the first time last year. Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117911/specialist-advicerisk-assessments-independent-safeguarding-authority.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117911/specialist-advicerisk-assessments-independent-safeguarding-authority.html The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) was created by the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and vested in January 2008. The ISA’s role is to help prevent unsuitable people from working with children and vulnerable adults by maintaining lists of people barred from working with one or both of those groups. As part of our considerations as to whether a person should be included on the ISA Barred Lists we assess whether they pose a risk of harm to one or both of those groups. The ISA is an accredited Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB), sponsored by the Home Office. The requirement of the work to be tendered is to provide independent risk assessments and specialist advice on potentially complex cases to assist the ISA to make a decision of whether it is appropriate for individuals to work with children and/or vulnerable adults. The contract will be for a period of twelve months with a provision to extend for an additional twelve months. Tender reference:...Fri, 06 Jan 2012 17:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117910/ministers-order-first-official-study-into-adoption-breakdown.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117910/ministers-order-first-official-study-into-adoption-breakdown.htmlThe first study looking at why, and how often, adoptions break down has been commissioned by the Department for Education. (Pic: Janie Airey/Mood Board/Rex Features)Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117908/bullet-point-test.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117908/bullet-point-test.html Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros et accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit praesent luptatum zzril delenit augue duis dolore te feugait nulla facilisi. Nam liber tempor cum soluta nobis eleifend option congue nihil imperdiet doming id quod mazim placerat facer possim assum. Typi non habent claritatem insitam; est usus legentis in iis qui facit eorum claritatem. bhjtrbhrtuob djbbnbn dbdbjnbjnbFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:23:00 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/2012/01/04/117906/college-of-social-work-opens-for-business.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/04/117906/college-of-social-work-opens-for-business.htmlThe College of Social Work formally opened its doors to paying members this week. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/04/117904/disabled-social-worker-wins-mbe-after-nomination-by-client.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/04/117904/disabled-social-worker-wins-mbe-after-nomination-by-client.htmlAmong the 984 people honoured in the New Year list was sensory impairment social worker Henry Mayne, whose MBE is the result of a nomination from a client he worked with a few years ago. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:48:00 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/2012/01/03/117901/approved-mental-health-professionals-polled-over-stress.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/03/117901/approved-mental-health-professionals-polled-over-stress.htmlA survey to measure burnout among approved mental health professionals (AMHPs) has been launched by researchers at King's College London.Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:27:00 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/2011/12/22/117899/how-to.-carry-out-a-fear-audit-in-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117899/how-to.-carry-out-a-fear-audit-in-social-work.htmlClaudia Megele explores the impact of distress and fear in social work practice and explains how "fear audits" could help.Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117898/college-of-social-work-suspends-deal-with-unison.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117898/college-of-social-work-suspends-deal-with-unison.htmlThe College of Social Work's decision to put its joint membership agreement with Unison on hold and restart talks with the British Association of Social Workers has been welcomed by Social Work Reform Board chair Moira Gibb (pictured).Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117897/painfully-slow-adoption-system-to-be-overhauled.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117897/painfully-slow-adoption-system-to-be-overhauled.htmlThe assessment process for prospective adopters will be stripped of some of its red tape in a bid to reduce waiting times for children in care, children's minister Tim Loughton (pictured) has revealed.Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:56:00 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/2011/12/19/117892/social-worker-fathered-child-with-former-service-user.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/19/117892/social-worker-fathered-child-with-former-service-user.html A social worker who fathered a child with a vulnerable former service user has been struck off. Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:12:00 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/2011/12/15/117888/government-rejects-munro-early-intervention-duty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/15/117888/government-rejects-munro-early-intervention-duty.htmlThe government has refused to implement a key recommendation in the Munro Review of child protection to create an early intervention duty on councils.Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117886/service-user-involvement-in-post-qualifying-training.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117886/service-user-involvement-in-post-qualifying-training.htmlSocial work academic Jo Rees examines research findings on service user involvement in post-qualifying social work education.Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:45:00 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/2011/12/14/117882/social-worker-struck-off-for-misconduct-in-healthcare-job.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117882/social-worker-struck-off-for-misconduct-in-healthcare-job.htmlA social worker who administered antipsychotic drugs to the wrong patient in his previous job as a healthcare assistant has been struck off. Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:26:00 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/2011/12/13/117880/funding-for-student-placements-to-be-cut-by-5m.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/13/117880/funding-for-student-placements-to-be-cut-by-5m.htmlThe Department for Education has been unable to deny claims by the British Association of Social Workers that the Social Work Education Support Grant will be slashed by almost 20% next year.Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:14:00 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/2011/12/13/117878/book-review-crossing-the-acts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/13/117878/book-review-crossing-the-acts.htmlThe risks faced by adults with mental disorder are greater in degree and type than those of other adults and as such require a different approach to the management of and response to risk and harm, writes Iain McDonald. Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:10:00 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/2011/12/12/117876/critical-success-factors-for-improving-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/12/117876/critical-success-factors-for-improving-social-work.htmlThe Social Work Reform Board's recommendations provide a window of opportunity for social work to reassert its role and enhance its professional image. But what are the critical factors necessary for their successful implementation? Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/12/117875/cuts-to-workforce-development-teams-hindering-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/12/117875/cuts-to-workforce-development-teams-hindering-reform.htmlThe Social Work Reform Board may struggle to continue delivering its programme of change in the face of cuts to workforce development teams throughout England, a report by Learn to Care has warned.Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:20:00 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/2011/12/09/117872/social-worker-admonished-over-close-relationship-with-user.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117872/social-worker-admonished-over-close-relationship-with-user.htmlA social worker who formed a close friendship with a vulnerable service user has been admonished by the General Social Care Council. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:38:00 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/2011/12/09/117869/social-workers-must-not-neglect-their-own-mental-health.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117869/social-workers-must-not-neglect-their-own-mental-health.htmlMental health consultant Mike Bush explains why trainers and employers must work harder to protect and promote the mental health and resilience of social workersFri, 09 Dec 2011 12:27:00 GMT