Case study:

17 October 2007

Care Home Learning Network (South West)

Key points

A learning network is providing support for care home staff in the south west, giving them the chance to share information and discuss dilemmas in practice.

The Care Home Learning Network, which is funded by Skills for Care, Bristol PCT and the Faculty of Health and Social Care, University of the West of England, Bristol, aims to develop the care home workforce and enhance residents’ care.

It also seeks to develop inter-professional student placements, introduce research activities and develop shared learning through partnership working.

Local network groups now meet regularly to share and develop practice.

Two of these have already started to run themselves and it is hoped that all will eventually be self-regulated.

In addition a dedicated website offers information, website, policy updates and a discussion room.

A formal evaluation indicates that the network has increased the knowledge and skills of the workforce and improved residents’ care.

For example, person-centred care has been introduced for residents with dementia in one home.

Small changes to the environment like painting the edge of the doorframe of toilet doors has also helped with problems of identification.

In addition pre-registration nurses now carry out 12-week placements in a nursing home in their first year while placements for student physiotherapists are planned.

Evidence-based practice and evaluative research activities have also been introduced in some care homes.