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Transforming the Social Care Workforce

Transforming England’s Adult Social Care Workforce

A 15-Year Strategy and Collaborative Vision

 

The introduction of a 15-year strategy for England’s adult social care workforce by Skills for Care represents a pivotal step in addressing the increasing demands and improving the quality of care. What makes this strategy particularly noteworthy is its development independently of direct government involvement, signalling a degree of sector autonomy and self-determination. This approach signifies a recognition of the unique challenges facing the adult social care sector and the need for innovative, sector-specific solutions.

 

Oonagh Smyth, the CEO of Skills for Care, has identified a range of workforce challenges that this strategy aims to tackle. These challenges include high turnover rates and difficulties in recruitment, which have created a perpetual cycle of staffing shortages. To overcome these hurdles, the strategy places a strong emphasis on collaboration with influential organisations such as the King’s Fund. This collaboration not only leverages their expertise but also underscores the importance of developing a sustainable and comprehensive plan for the future.

 

Simultaneously, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is taking proactive measures to address workforce shortages. This includes recruiting skilled workers through visas, a crucial step in tapping into international talent to bolster the domestic workforce. Additionally, the DHSC has raised the national living wage, making careers in adult social care more financially attractive, and has continued to promote the “Made with Care” campaign, now in its third year. This campaign serves as a significant tool in portraying adult social care as an inclusive and emotionally rewarding career choice.

 

The adult social care sector warmly welcomes the introduction of the 15-year strategy and other efforts by the DHSC. However, sector bodies stress the critical need for government investment and policy support. These are not only essential for recruiting new staff but, more importantly, for retaining existing professionals in the field. The sustainability of the sector and the maintenance of high-quality care depend on this dual approach, which encompasses both recruitment and staff retention.

 

The government’s commitment to reforming adult social care includes substantial financial investment in workforce development. This investment aims at reducing waiting times and increasing the sector’s capacity to meet the growing demands of an ageing population. This multifaceted approach acknowledges the complex and interconnected nature of the challenges faced by the adult social care sector.

 

Collectively, the 15-year strategy, government support, and the “Made with Care” campaign are shaping the future of England’s social care workforce. Their joint goal is to create a sustainable, high-quality sector that offers rewarding careers to those who choose this profession and vital care and support to those in need. As England’s social care system evolves, continuous monitoring of the strategy’s impact is crucial to ensure that the desired outcomes are achieved and maintained. This forward-thinking and comprehensive approach demonstrates a commitment to addressing the urgent needs of the adult social care sector while laying the groundwork for a stronger and more resilient system.

 

Stay up to date with the latest Health and Social Care news and more: visit our blog. To request further details, please get in touch.

Back Care Awareness Week 2023

Your Guide to a Healthy Spine

With Back Care Awareness Week just around the corner, we are on a mission to promote spinal health and prevent avoidable back injuries. Click here to view BackCare’s latest guidance booklet, packed with valuable information to help you and your staff maintain a healthy spine.

 

Our spine plays a pivotal role in our daily lives, supporting posture, mobility, and overall well-being. However, back problems are all too common, causing discomfort and limitations. The good news? Many back issues are preventable with proper care and awareness.

 

To support BackCare this week, you can make a donation, organise events, and access digital materials to help raise awareness. Click here to learn more.

Train the Trainer Benefits

The Top 5 Benefits of Train the Trainer Courses

In today’s fast-paced business world, the need for skilled trainers who can efficiently pass on knowledge and skills to others is paramount. To meet this demand, organisations are increasingly turning to Train the Trainer courses. These specialised programs are designed to transform experienced team members into licensed trainers within specific subjects. Advantage Accreditation offers a host of benefits that can significantly elevate your training initiatives.

 

1. Tailored Packages

Advantage offers a range of packages to suit your organisation’s needs. Whether you require a basic Train the Trainer course or want to unlock the full range of benefits through Advantage membership, you have the flexibility to choose the package that aligns with your objectives.

 

2. Consistency in Training

With Advantage’s Train the Trainer courses, you can ensure a consistent level of quality in your training programs. All trainers follow Advantage’s standards to provide learners with a standardised and high-quality education.

 

3. Increased Employee Engagement

By empowering your staff to become trainers, you not only save on training costs but also boost employee engagement. When team members take on teaching roles, they often feel a greater sense of responsibility and contribution to the organisation.

 

4. Enhanced Organisational Competence

Through Train the Trainer courses, your organisation builds a pool of skilled trainers who can impart knowledge and skills effectively. This enhanced competence can lead to improved performance, increased innovation, and better problem-solving throughout your organisation.

 

5. Flexible Options

We understand that every organisation’s needs are unique. With our courses, you have the flexibility to choose Presentation Skills courses and customise your program by adding subject knowledge modules. These modules are taught by subject-area experts, ensuring your trainers are well-equipped to educate others effectively.

 

By empowering your team members to become proficient trainers, you can reduce costs, enhance the quality of training, and ultimately drive organisational success. This is your opportunity to take your training initiatives to the next level with Advantage Accreditation’s Train the Trainer courses. Get in touch to enquire today.

Urology Awareness Month 2023

Promoting Bladder Health: Urology Awareness Month 2023

Every year in September, healthcare professionals, patients, and advocacy groups come together to raise awareness about urological issues during Urology Awareness Month. This year, in 2023, we focus our attention on bladder health, with a particular emphasis on urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary incontinence, and bladder cancer. These conditions affect millions of people worldwide, and through education and awareness, we can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards better bladder health. Advantage Accreditation is committed to supporting this cause and invites you to explore our catheter care and catheterisation training course materials, which play a vital role in promoting bladder health and preventing complications in health and social care settings.

 

Bladder health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it often goes overlooked until problems arise. Urology Awareness Month serves as a reminder that bladder-related issues are common and can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. This year the campaign aims to shed light on three significant areas within bladder health:

 

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are among the most prevalent bacterial infections, affecting millions each year. They can be painful, disrupt daily life, and, if left untreated, lead to more severe complications. Prevention and proper management of UTIs are crucial.

 

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent condition, and its impact on one’s quality of life cannot be understated. It can lead to embarrassment, social isolation, and decreased self-esteem.

 

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer, though less common than UTIs or urinary incontinence, is a severe condition that demands attention. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for better outcomes.

 

Advantage Accreditation is dedicated to promoting excellence in healthcare through education and training. We understand the significance of bladder health and its impact on individuals’ lives. That’s why we offer a range of specialised course materials to equip health and social care professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide exceptional care in the field of urology.

 

As we observe Urology Awareness Month in 2023 with a focus on bladder health, Advantage Accreditation encourages healthcare professionals, patients, and advocacy groups to join us in spreading awareness about these crucial issues. Together, we can make a significant impact on bladder health education and support.

 

Explore our Catheter Care and Catheterisation Training Materials to equip yourself or your team with the knowledge and skills needed to provide the best possible care for individuals facing urological challenges. By working together, we can ensure that bladder health remains a priority and that those affected receive the care and support they deserve.

A step towards the Future of Care

Government to Invest £600 Million in Social Care Workforce

In December 2021, the UK government unveiled the “People at the Heart of Care” white paper. This promised significant funding for social care reform over three years. In April, they allocated £700 million, including £250 million for the social care workforce.

 

On 28th July, social care minister Helen Whatley announced plans to invest the remaining £600 million in social care over the next two years.

 

The Department of Health and Social Care will roll out £10 million for adult social care research. These initiatives will work alongside the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan.

 

Care workers are at the forefront of providing crucial services. The funding aims to recognise and support their essential work.

 

The social care sector welcomes these announcements. Martin Tett, County Councils Network, praised the decision to provide funding to councils. Beverley Tarka, Association of Directors of Adults Social Services, expressed gratitude for the government’s responsiveness. This funding will help stabilise the situation and address the challenges faced during the winter months.

 

The Department for Health and Social Care is also planning a series of initiatives to enhance digital skills. Plans include new eLearning courses in digital leadership for level five qualifications. Collaboration with the Local Government Association will strengthen digital confidence in local authorities. Efforts with the NHS Leadership Academy will create new opportunities to develop digital skills.

 

The funding represents a significant step towards the future of care. It is a move that will enhance the quality of care provided to vulnerable individuals. By supporting care workers, investing in digital skills, and planning for the future, the government is taking crucial steps to ensure a sustainable and effective social care workforce.

 

To stay up to date with developments in Health and Social Care, sign up for our mailing list.

World Hepatitis Day: Taking Action for a Hepatitis-Free Future

Every year, millions of people lose their lives to hepatitis. World Hepatitis Day (WHD) takes place on 28th July each year.

In 2023, WHD’s theme is “We’re not waiting” to end hepatitis. People living with viral hepatitis cannot afford to wait for testing and life-saving treatments. WHD aims to eradicate stigma and demand political and societal action.

What is viral hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis is liver inflammation caused by five different viruses. They have different ways of spreading, including contaminated food and water and body fluids. They can cause short-term and long-term disease.

What can you do to help?

Get involved with WHD. Pledge your support online today. Various campaign materials are available to adapt and download. Most importantly, you can find out your own hepatitis status. Schedule an appointment with your GP or a sexual health clinic. They will assess your situation and decide the next steps for you.

Prevention in Health and Social Care

Advantage Accreditation provides training materials in Infection Control and Prevention. Through high-quality, externally verified training, care staff can protect themselves against viral hepatitis.

If you would like to deliver this training, please contact Advantage Accreditation.

Samaritans' Talk to Us 247

Talk to Us: Samaritans’ Annual Awareness Campaign

In today’s interconnected world, many individuals face personal crises and mental health struggles.  During difficult times, having someone to listen and provide support can make all the difference. That’s where Samaritans, a renowned UK charity, comes in. Every year, Samaritans host an annual awareness campaign called “Talk to Us.”

 

On 24th July, Samaritans emphasise their commitment to being available 24/7. Throughout July, the Talk to Us campaign reminds people that Samaritans are there to listen at all times.  Samaritans branches organise events to spread the message of available support.

 

Samaritans’ helpline offers a safe and confidential space for individuals to talk about their troubles. It is at the heart of their mission. The helpline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, offering a lifeline to those who feel isolated or overwhelmed. Whether it’s through a phone call, letter, email, or even a self-help app, Samaritans strive to ensure that no one faces their struggles alone.

 

Advantage Accreditation supports Talk to Us and Samaritans Awareness Day campaigns. We aim to share their message and reach more individuals in need of support. We encourage you to share this too.

 

Samaritans also advocate for policies to prevent suicide and support individuals in crisis. They go beyond raising awareness. Samaritans strive to create a world with fewer suicides and reduced stress through systemic change.

 

We provide training materials for the following courses:

  • Managing Personal Stress
  • Managing Stress in the Workplace
  • Suicide Awareness

 

Here is some helpful information from our Suicide Awareness course, combatting myths with facts:

 

Myth: Once someone feels suicidal, they will always be suicidal.

Fact: High risk of suicide is often short-term and situation-specific.

 

Myth: Talking about suicide makes things worse.

Fact: Open conversation can give someone a chance to rethink their decision.

 

Myth: Most suicides happen without warning.

Fact: Most suicides have verbal or behavioural warning signs.

 

Myth: If someone talks about suicide, they’re not going to attempt it.

Fact: People may talk about suicide to reach out for support.

 

Samaritans’ Talk to Us campaign serves as a powerful reminder that support is a conversation away.

 

Call: 116 123

Write: Freepost SAMARITANS LETTERS

App: Samaritans Self-Help

 

If you would like to deliver our accredited training materials to train others, please get in touch.

AI Diagnostic Fund

How the NHS plans to use the AI Diagnostic Fund

The NHS is dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes through the introduction of innovative solutions in health and social care. These advancements encompass new technologies that enable illness prevention, early diagnosis, effective treatments, and accelerated recovery. The NHS is championing these breakthroughs.

 

To support the implementation of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, a £21 million AI Diagnostic fund has been established. This fund will ease the deployment of AI imaging and decision support tools, with the primary goal of expediting the diagnosis of conditions such as cancer, strokes, and heart disease, thereby reducing waiting lists.

 

Here are some examples of the new technologies:

 

  • Analyses brain scans of stroke patients
  • Assists doctors in making diagnosis and treatment decisions
  • Minimises treatment delays by facilitating real-time data sharing between hospitals

 

  • Interprets routine heart CT scans
  • Provides personalised risk assessments for heart attacks
  • Enables early intervention to prevent heart disease and mortality

 

OSAIRIS

  • Prepares patient scans before radiotherapy
  • Reduces the time between referrals and treatment initiation
  • Safeguards healthy organs by marking them for protection against radiation

 

  • Offer intermittent continuous glucose monitoring
  • Reduce the need for finger prick testing
  • Provide wearable arm monitors for real-time glucose monitoring
  • Reduce hospitalisations

 

Single Health Resilience Early Warning Database (SHREWD)

  • Tracks patient flow across hospitals
  • Alleviates pressure points
  • Ensures timely treatment

 

  • Enhances patient access to health and care data

 

The NHS Long-Term Plan places significant emphasis on innovation. The NHS England Innovation Board promotes research participation, technological development, and economic growth.

 

At Advantage Accreditation, we are excited to witness the advancements in health and social care resulting from these new technologies.

 

To stay informed about the latest Health and Social Care news, sign up for our newsletter.

Delegated Healthcare Activities

What are Delegated Healthcare Tasks?

Safety, consistency and a person-centred approach are vital elements in high-quality care.

 

Safety ensures the health and well-being of individuals receiving care. Consistency ensures care is reliable and predictable, without fluctuations in quality or availability. A person-centred approach recognizes the unique needs, preferences, and circumstances of each individual.

 

Skills for Care recently published ‘Delegated healthcare activities: guiding principles for health and social care in England’.

 

These guidelines enhance the delivery of delegated healthcare activities. With this advice, care staff can deliver safer, more consistent and person-centred care.

 

What are ‘Delegated healthcare activities’?

 

Tasks carried out by professionals in health and social care. These activities provide an opportunity to integrate clinical and social care services.

 

Care support workers can become qualified to carry out more clinical tasks. Individuals can receive more consistent care and develop trusting relationships with caregivers. They can also receive the care they need with reduced delays and interruptions.

 

As the care worker can work with the individual more often, they will become more familiar with their preferences and choices. This enables high-quality, person-centred care. The aim is for individuals to feel heard, empowered and involved in their care journey.

 

Ongoing training is essential here.

 

Advantage Accreditation now offers training in Delegated Healthcare Tasks. We can provide learning materials for the following topics:

 

  • Bowel Care and Suppository Administration
  • Insulin Administration
  • Stoma Care
  • Tracheostomy
  • PEG Feeding
  • Catheter Care

 

Please contact Advantage Accreditation to enquire about delivering our Delegated Healthcare Tasks training.

Diabetes Week 2023

How to Support Someone with Diabetes

Diabetes Week 2023 takes place 12th-18th June 2023. The annual event, organised by Diabetes UK, aims to raise awareness and support those living with diabetes.

Advantage Accreditation specialises in training for Health and Social Care staff. This article demonstrates how the public can support those with diabetes.

Support networks are vital for those living with diabetes. Diabetes comes with a range of physical and emotional challenges. People with diabetes are 20% more likely to experience anxiety compared to people without the condition (CDC). If you have a friend or family member with diabetes, consider how you can support them. This doesn’t need to be physical support, monitoring diets or administering medication. Rather, we recommend thinking of ways to ease the burden. On days when they feel unwell, you could take on the school run, help with housework, or simply be present and listen. In some locations, specific diabetic support groups may be available.

Those with diabetes will likely rely on care, medication and technologies for the rest of their lives. In the UK, those with lower incomes are more likely to experience long-term health conditions (Kingsfund). It is vital that care continues to be affordable for those with low incomes to treat diabetes. One way to support those with diabetes is to advocate and campaign for affordable healthcare. Those with diabetes often need breaks to self-administer medication and it is important this is not stigmatised. Employers should create an inclusive atmosphere that meets diabetic employees’ care needs.

If you know someone with diabetes, it may help to become familiar with their emergency procedures. If appropriate, talk to them about their needs and prepare to help if they experience low or high blood sugar.

Advantage Accreditation offers a Level 2 Award in Diabetes training course. If you would like to become an accredited training centre to deliver this course, please enquire online or call 020 7405 9999.

Diabetes UK will host several events and campaigns during Diabetes Week. Visit the Diabetes UK website to see what they have planned.

Challenges Faced By Unpaid Carers in the UK

Carers Week 2023 takes place from 5th to 11th June. Every year, this event aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by unpaid carers across the country. In 2023, the week will once again provide an opportunity to acknowledge and support those in unpaid caring roles.

This is a vital role in our country. Without the work of unpaid carers, there would be extreme strain on our NHS. The current annual NHS budget is £159 billion, while the estimated value of care is £162 billion per year (University of Sheffield). To meet care needs without unpaid carers, the NHS would need more than double their budget.

 

Here are only a few challenges facing unpaid carers in 2023:

 

Rising Cost of Living

With the present cost of living crisis, 14% of unpaid carers are unable to pay their utility bills. 5% of unpaid carers are relying on food banks. This data comes from Carers UK, which continues to campaign for better provision for unpaid carers.

 

Mental Health

Many unpaid carers have extra responsibilities beyond providing care. These often include work, education, childcare and housekeeping. The majority of carers struggle to manage their stress. 70% say caring has a negative impact on their mental and physical health (Care Quality Commission, 2022).

 

Lack of Support

Carers often go to their local authority for support. In 2021 only 27% of carers who requested support actually received any (The Health Foundation). Without respite care, counselling and other types of support, carers’ roles grow more and more challenging.

 

Organisations throughout the UK will host various events to raise awareness during Carers Week 2023. Find out what you can do in this online resource.

 

Do you know an outstanding unpaid carer?

We invite you to celebrate the carers in your life. Send them a token of your appreciation, offer some support, or post about them on social media using #CarersWeek.

Four Tips for Getting a Dementia Diagnosis

 

Dementia Action Week 2023 takes place from 15th to 21st May. Created by the Alzheimer's Society, this campaign encourages us to 'act on dementia'.

Dementia describes symptoms affecting cognitive abilities. There are several types of dementia. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type, affecting 60-70% of dementia cases (World Health Organization). Around 900,000 people in the UK experience dementia (Alzheimer's Society). Researchers expect this to increase to 1.6 million people by 2040. There is currently no cure, but some treatments are available to help manage symptoms.

This year, Dementia Action Week focuses on encouraging people to seek a diagnosis. Many people choose not to seek a diagnosis due to denial, misconceptions and barriers to healthcare.

Advantage Accreditation supports the Alzheimer's Society in its campaign to increase diagnosis. Here are our tips on how to seek a diagnosis for yourself or someone you know:

 

Understand the importance of diagnosis
Early diagnosis provides time to make preparations for the future. Beginning treatments as soon as possible can help slow deterioration over time. Plus, the diagnosis means family members can access support groups and helpful resources.

 

Know the symptoms
Signs of dementia can include:

  • Memory loss
  • Disorientation
  • Poor concentration
  • Mood changes
  • Self-neglect
  • Weight loss
  • Perception changes
  • Sensory loss
  • Depression
  • Incontinence
  • Behavioural changes
  • Repetitive behaviours
  • Communication difficulties

We recommend completing the Alzheimer's Society's symptom checklist and sharing this with your GP.

 

Prepare for the diagnosis process
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides a Dementia Pathway.

  • It is believed the individual may have dementia
  • Initial assessment in a non-specialist setting
  • Diagnosis in a specialist diagnostic service
  • Further tests for dementia sub-types
  • Referral and support
  • Management

 

Hear other people's stories
Click here to see people share first-hand dementia stories. This can help reduce feelings of fear and isolation. These stories show that it is possible to live a full life with dementia.

 

Advantage Accreditation supports training providers to deliver high-quality training on dementia. We provide ready-to-use courses, including:

  • Level 2 Award in Dementia Awareness
  • Level 2 Award in Managing Behaviours That Challenge in Dementia

If you would like to become an accredited centre with us, please enquire online.

Exciting Digital Developments in Care

The UK government have new plans to invest £150 million in the digital transformation of adult social care (gov.uk). This is a collaboration between the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS England. This plan aims to make significant improvements by 2025 by implementing new digital strategies. The goals of this initiative are to:

  • Prevent care needs from escalating
  • Personalise care and reduce disparities
  • Improve the experience and impact of care workers
  • Transform performance

The use of iPads in care homes during the Covid-19 pandemic inspired these digital developments. These iPads allowed staff to communicate via video calls and allowed residents to keep in touch with friends and family. This was hugely impactful and the iPads are still used today. The technology has been helpful in the delivery of care too, with staff using iPads for care planning and ordering medication. Over 50% of CQC registered providers now use electronic care plans. Find out more in this gov.uk article.

In the coming years, the government will implement its digital health and social care plans in England. The needs of local areas will be taken into consideration when delivering funding and support. The benefits of technologies including tablets and smart speakers are currently under consideration.

New fall detection and prevention systems may be used to help older adults live at home for longer (National Library of Medicine). These take various forms, including watches and bed sensors. When they detect a fall, they immediately notify caregivers. Some may even prevent falls by detecting movement and playing a voice message warning the listener to move carefully.

Care workers have a wide range of digital capabilities. They are likely to have mixed feelings about the implementation of new technologies. To address this, the government has produced a new digital skills framework. This covers seven key themes for effective digital working:

  • Using digital technology in a person-centred way
  • Technical skills for using digital technology
  • Communicating through technology
  • Being safe and secure online
  • Ethical use of data and digital technology
  • Using and managing data to deliver care
  • Digital learning, self-development and wellbeing

The framework is currently available as a draft. This provides an opportunity to give feedback and see further development. The final version will be available online soon.

Stay up to date with developments in the health and social care sector. Advantage Accreditation sends out regular email newsletters to help you keep up with the latest news. Sign up for our mailing list below.

The New Care Workforce Pathway

The UK’s adult social care sector continues to face staff shortages. In 2020/21, over 100,000 social care roles across the country were vacant (UK Parliament). The government has proposed a new Care Workforce Pathway to encourage workers to join the sector. The pathway also provides a framework for career progression for existing care staff.

 

The Care Workforce Pathway is part of the government’s plans to put People at the Heart of Care. The pathway is one of the first initiatives to be introduced, with more to follow between April 2023 and April 2025.

 

Altogether, this new pathway aims to improve the quality of care by improving the skills of care workers. With opportunities for progression, the pathway will also increase motivation and job satisfaction, and encourage more workers to join the sector.

 

 

The roles outlined in the new pathway are:

 

Foundation Stage
Those in the Foundation Stage are not currently working within social care but may consider this a career option. They may be completing training or volunteering.

 

Care & Support Practitioner
Those in this stage are in their first 12 months of work within adult social care. This could include staff who have previous experience but have been out of practice for several years. Staff will complete the Care Certificate at this stage.

 

Advanced Care & Support Practitioner
After completing essential training, including the Care Certificate, staff move on to this stage. Advanced care and support practitioners are competent to provide person-centred care and support. They may choose to develop more specialist experience.

 

Senior Care & Support Practitioner
Those in this stage hold leadership roles within the adult social care sector.

 

The pathway then splits into two: Registered Workforce and Registered Manager.

 

Registered Workforce

Staff can develop into Practice Leaders or Specialist Practitioners if they have specialist skills and expertise in a specific area of care and support.

 

Registered Manager

Deputy Registered Managers and Registered Managers are skilled in business and people management.

 

Advantage Accreditation provides a broad range of Health and Social Care training courses that can help staff progress in their careers, including:

  • Level 2 Award in Role of the Care Worker and Personal Development
  • Level 2 Award in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
  • Level 2 Award in Safeguarding Adults
  • Level 2 Award in Handling and Administration of Medications

If you would like to become an accredited training centre and deliver these courses for your staff, please contact Advantage Accreditation.

Allergy Awareness Week 2023: 24th – 30th April

This week strives to raise awareness of allergies and the difficulties faced by people with allergies. The annual event was set up by Allergy UK.

Allergies affect over 20% of the UK population (Allergy UK). One in five people has at least one allergic disorder. The number of people affected by allergies is much higher, as many parents, carers, teachers, etc. will take care of people with allergies.

As an accreditation body, we encourage the public to take every opportunity to learn. We provide a Level 2 Award in Anaphylaxis and Emergency Medication training course.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. Signs can include difficulty breathing or speaking, cough, dizziness and loss of consciousness. More mild or moderate allergic reactions can involve rashes, swelling of the face, itching and nausea.

Here are some useful tips for helping someone with an allergy:

Good housekeeping: Keeping your environment clean and tidy will help protect people allergic to mould and dust mites.

Air purifiers: Running an air purifier can reduce airborne allergens.

Emergency medication: Many people with severe allergies carry emergency medication with them. This is extremely important and life-saving. The UK government recently published clarification for schools on keeping spare adrenaline auto-injectors. These can are supplied to schools without a specific prescription for a specific child. They can be vital if a child presents with anaphylaxis for the first time without a diagnosed allergy.

Call an ambulance: Always call an ambulance if someone is experiencing anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction).

Avoid food allergens: When preparing food for others, make sure you ask them whether they have any food allergies. Common food allergens include:

Provide emotional support: Many people with allergies experience anxiety. You can help reduce anxiety by creating a safe environment. You can also use anxiety management strategies, such as mindful breathing or muscle relaxation.

Allergies can take many forms, and some are rarely discussed. Here are some allergies you may not already be aware of:

Sulphites: These are preservatives sometimes present in food and drinks, including vinegar, wine, condiments, etc.

Aspirin: Often present in medicines, including ibuprofen.

Balsam of Peru: Sometimes called Myroxylon Pereirae or Peruvian Balsam, this is often used in perfumes.

If you think you may have an allergy, speak to your GP.

If you would like to become an accredited training centre and provide training on allergies, please get in touch.