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🏆 Countdown to the East Sussex Care Awards 2025!
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With just under a week to go, excitement is building for the East Sussex Care Awards 2025 — a night dedicated to celebrating the incredible people who make a difference every single day in care across our county.
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We can’t wait to welcome all our finalists, their colleagues, sector leaders, and our wonderful sponsors to what promises to be a fabulous evening of celebration, entertainment, and dancing!
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This year’s event will once again shine a spotlight on the compassion, commitment and creativity that make our care sector truly exceptional. From outstanding care workers to innovative teams and inspiring leaders, we’re ready to celebrate every story of excellence.
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📅 Date: Thursday 13 November 2025
📍 Venue: East Sussex National Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa
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🎉 Let’s come together to applaud the very best in care!
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💙 Our Finalists:
Rey Quin • Dragos “Nick” Stefanescu • Tracie Wilson • Nicki Hollywood • Maria Sinclair • Sarah Maskell • Ruby Antony • Bridget Kativu • Dilani Meepanalage • Deshika Jayasundara • Tom Derrick • Paloma Corke • Jon Brunner • Siobhan Cannon • Rhianna Earley • Adam Roberts • Bernadene Williams • Cindy Little • Georgia Slowey • Rebecca Taylor • Amanda Laurence • Grace Walker • Dean Hollobone • Jasmine James • Lou Rumble • Jenny Miles • Chené Jones • Paul McKeown • Martina Zizkova • Ian Schlieder • Caroline Foord • Chi Ling Chan • Manel Ahmed • Yvonne Wiggan • Liz Tehrani • Claire Wheeler • Stuart Draper • Annie Parker • Chona Chatfield • Maisie O'Donnell • Charlotte Anderson • Bartek Romanowski • Victoria Gallagher • Paul Barrett • Jhazmin Cabrera • Megan Jackson • Madel Wrobel • Carl Gibson • Mariana Philipova • Charlene O’Toole • Emma-Louise Rich-Spice
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✨ Every one of these incredible individuals embodies care at its very best — through compassion, skill, and heart.
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More Upcoming Events From Us:
Home Care Themed Webinar
About:
Focused on the home care sector, this webinar explores current trends, workforce issues, best practices, and upcoming regulatory changes.
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🚀 A great opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and connect with others delivering domiciliary care services.
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✨ Don’t miss your chance to join these targeted sessions — each designed to support providers, managers, and teams in delivering excellent care.
🎟 Click the links above to secure your tickets today!
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Medicines Audit Masterclass for Care Homes – Book Now!
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Don’t miss this practical Medicines Audit Masterclass designed specifically for care homes.
Learn how to achieve outstanding medication audits, improve compliance, and strengthen your medication management processes.
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Delivered by experts, this interactive session will help care home managers and staff gain the confidence and knowledge to ensure safe, effective, and high-quality care.
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📅 Date: Tuesday 12th November 2025
📍 Location: Online
🕒 Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
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🌍 International Recruitment Scheme – Applications Still Open
👉 Applications are still open for providers wishing to join the scheme and sponsor a displaced worker.
Find out more on the SESCA website.
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Please help us improve by sharing your thoughts with the independent project evaluation team - you can do this using a brief online survey found at this link:
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Free Legal Helpline available now!
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The FREE legal helpline is available for you to use! Available until 28th November!
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Providers are entitled to a Free 30-minute, no obligation, phone consultation with an immigration specialist at Lester Aldridge Solicitors.
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Phone lines are open from 9am-5pm, Mon–Fri (with an answer phone operating outside these hours).
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You can also email Lester Aldridge using the dedicated address below.
Phone: 01202 786126
Email: sescahelp@LA-Law.com
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The service is open to all CQC-registered adult social care providers operating in the South-East.
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Everyday English Sessions for Frontline International Care Staff
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These language and cultural adaptation sessions have been highly successful with the sponsored staff SESCA works with through the international recruitment scheme.It is now available for providers to access for any of your employees you believe would benefit in a two session format. The cost is £150 per worker.Please see the attached leaflet for more information, or the booking link which is:https://buytickets.at/recruitmatch/1907198
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FREE International Recruitment Webinar
10:00 – 11:30am, Wednesday 12th November
Following our hugely successful webinar series, our next webinar will be delivered by the immigration experts from Lester Aldridge Solicitors.
Open to all registered providers in the South-East, the webinar will offer practical guidance addressing key challenges including:
• Sponsoring in-country migrant workers
• Undefined CoS applications
• Visa Renewals
• Employing Sponsored Staff on a Secondary Employment Basis
Register here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/880546b7-01e9-47be-a284-29e8b7a6068a@4a23106c-b58c-417e-9bc4-a08e974bff70
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✨ Gold Members — Make the Most of Your Membership!
A quick reminder to our Gold Members: if you haven’t already, take a moment to check your members’ section for the latest updates, exclusive resources, and benefits available to you.
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📣 Hot off the Press: SAB Monthly Digest – November 2025
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We’re pleased to bring you the November 2025 edition of the SAB Monthly Digest – your go-to roundup for the latest safeguarding adults updates across East Sussex. Inside you’ll find:
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Key themes and initiatives from this month’s safeguarding work
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Highlights from multi-agency training, new resources and policy developments
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Insightful practice learning and real-life case reflections
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Upcoming opportunities for training, collaboration and sector alignment
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This digest is a must-read if you’re working in care, health or support services — staying updated means better outcomes and stronger partnerships.
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Have Your Say: Open Consultations Now Live 🗣️
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The Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers (OACP) currently has several important open consultations inviting feedback from across the care sector. This is your opportunity to help shape policy and ensure the voice of adult social care is heard.
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🧩 Adult Social Care Learning & Development Support Scheme (ASC LDSS)
Share your views on how learning and development support for adult social care could be improved and delivered in the future.
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💬 Duty to Inform Workers of the Right to Join a Union
Have your say on how employers should communicate workers’ rights to join a trade union under the proposed Employment Rights Bill.
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🏢 Trade Union Right of Access
This consultation explores how trade unions could gain access to workplaces — physically or digitally — and what rules should apply.
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💐 Leave for Bereavement (Including Pregnancy Loss)
Give your feedback on proposals to strengthen bereavement rights, including new provisions for pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
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🤰 Enhanced Protections for Pregnant Women & New Mothers
Input is sought on extending and improving dismissal protections for pregnant employees and those returning from maternity leave.
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💷 Fair Pay Agreement (FPA)
A major consultation on introducing fair pay in the care sector — including who’s covered, how negotiations work, and next steps.
Closing date: 16 January 2026
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Your insight is vital — each response helps influence the future of the care workforce and the wider sector.
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Sussex Skills for Care: Social Care Nursing Webinar
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🗓 Tuesday 19 November
🕛 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm (Online)
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We’re pleased to share an invitation to the upcoming Skills for Care Social Care Nursing Webinar, designed for social care providers across Sussex who want to learn more about:
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Offering nurse and nurse associate student placements within their organisations
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Supporting and promoting social care nursing as a career of choice
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The session will feature guest speakers from both care providers and the University of Brighton and University of Chichester, sharing insights, experiences, and practical advice on embedding student placements and growing the nursing workforce within care settings.
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This is a great opportunity to learn, connect, and build confidence in supporting the next generation of nurses in social care.
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Sussex Digital November Events
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WhatsApp in Care: Safe or Sorry?
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Tue, 18 Nov 2025 at 14:30
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This session is for care providers who want to understand:
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- What’s OK and what’s not when using WhatsApp for care communication
- Where the risks lie with confidentiality, safeguarding and GDPR
- Real examples of what goes wrong — and how to avoid being that headline
- Safer alternatives and simple policies you can actually use
- What CQC, the ICO, and your insurance provider expect from you
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Record of Processing Activities (ROPA) and Information Asset Register (IAR)
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Wed, 19 Nov 2025 at 14:00
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Under the Data Protection Act (2018) and GDPR, care providers must lawfully manage personal data. This is done through two key records: the Record of Processing Activities (ROPA), which tracks where data comes from, where it goes, and why it’s shared, and the Information Asset Register (IAR), which records what data is held, where it’s stored, and how it’s protected.
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Cyber Attack Simulation: Can Your Care Service Survive These 5 Threats?
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Thu, 20 Nov 2025 at 12:30
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In this 1-hour interactive workshop, you'll gain the practical skills to recognise and respond to phishing attacks and scams that could target you or your organisation. We will walk through real-life scenarios and work together on identifying red flags and implementing effective responses to these threats.
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Artificial Intelligence -safe and practical applications in social care
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Thu, 20 Nov 2025 at 14:30
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Join us for an engaging online event where you'll learn all about the fascinating world of chatbot artificial intelligence.
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Business Continuity Plan - cyber attack survival guide
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Tue, 25 Nov 2025 at 14:30
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This practical session is designed to help providers understand how to test their BCPs effectively, with a focus on real-world digital risks. We’ll walk through examples of how to prepare for and respond to different scenarios
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NHSMail: Essential Tips for Social Care Providers
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Wed, 26 Nov 2025 at 14:00
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Join us for a 30-minute bite-sized session designed for social care providers to improve their NHSmail management. The session will cover how to access and set up shared mailboxes, add or remove users, maintain account security with multi-factor authentication, and make the most of the NHSMail helpdesk. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and get expert support.
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Practical IT Skills Workshop - IT Systems and Devices
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Thu, 27 Nov 2025 at 14:00
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This session is specifically tailored to address challenges that many providers face in completing the IT Systems and Devices section of the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT). During this session, we'll delve into each aspect of the IT Systems and Devices section of the DSPT toolkit, providing detailed explanations and practical demonstrations on how to do the following:
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- Set up multi-factor authentication
- Track and wipe content remotely from mobile devices
- Encrypt your devices
- Change passwords on networking components such as routers, switches, hubs, and firewalls
- Set up private browsing
- Assess and strengthen your passwords
- Optimise your device performance
- Back up data and conduct thorough testing to ensure its integrity.
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An important update from Towergate Insurance
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We stood by you as Towergate, now we’re standing by you as Everywhen
We’re writing to let you know about an exciting change to Towergate Insurance. We will soon become Everywhen – a name that reflects our commitment to being there for you and your clients ‘always’ or ‘at all times’ (the dictionary definition of ‘Everywhen’).
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While our name is changing, the people behind it aren’t. We’ll still be here to offer the same specialist insight, responsive service and personal relationships our clients have come to rely on.
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The world is evolving and so are we. Our new identity brings clarity to who we are and what we stand for: making the complex simple, supporting our clients through change, and helping people feel confident in their cover, whatever comes their way.
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What does this mean for you?
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If you’re already a client, nothing changes. You’ll continue to benefit from the same trusted team, expert advice and tailored support, just under a new name.
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If you’re not yet insured through Everywhen and want to learn more about what we offer as a specialist broker, we’d love to hear from you.
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You can’t predict everything. That’s why you need Everywhen.
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Webinars for social care providers
winter 2025
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Join Hempsons legal specialists for their free social care webinars this winter.
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How to support services that have had regulatory breaches during a CQC inspection
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In this CQC blog series, Philippa Doyle, Head of Social Care at Hempsons, answers the most common questions providers ask when dealing with the CQC. This time, Philippa answers: How can services that have previously had regulatory breaches during an inspection, evidence that strategies have been implemented to address them upon reinspection?
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Sponsored by Hempsons, CMM has launched a new CQC resource page; a one-stop-shop for care providers’ regulatory needs. For breaking news, newly published guidance, informative blog posts, a monthly column from the regulator, advice on preparing for an inspection and more, click here.
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State of Care 2024/25
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The annual assessment of health care and social care in England
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State of Care looks at the trends, shares examples of good and outstanding care and highlights where care needs to improve.
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This year's report finds that the health and social care system remains fragmented and under severe strain as it prepares for a major shift from hospital to neighbourhood care.
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📣 Have Your Say: CQC Consultation on Assessing & Rating Providers
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The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has launched a public consultation called “Better regulation, better care” to improve how it assesses, inspects and rates health and care providers. cqc.org.uk+2cqc.org.uk+2
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Reintroducing rating characteristics to describe what each rating level (e.g. Good, Requires Improvement) looks like in practice cqc.org.uk+2cqc.org.uk+2
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Developing sector-specific assessment frameworks to better reflect the context of different services cqc.org.uk+2cqc.org.uk+2
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Simplifying the language and removing duplication to make frameworks clearer for all stakeholders cqc.org.uk+2cqc.org.uk+2
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Adjusting how judgements are made — with more emphasis on professional judgement, and changes to rating methods and follow-ups cqc.org.uk+2dacbeachcroft.com+2
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Potential changes in how NHS trusts are rated, including restoring an overall quality rating and reviewing location-level ratings cqc.org.uk+2dacbeachcroft.com+2
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This is your chance to help shape the future of regulation in health and social care — whether you’re a provider, user, carer, or stakeholder. The consultation is open to everyone. cqc.org.uk+2cqc.org.uk+2
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📝 Have Your Say: ESCC Research on ASC Client Payments
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Have your say about paying for adult social care in East Sussex!
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Share your views in East Sussex County Council's research. It is being conducted by independent research agency SMG, and taking part is confidential – East Sussex County Council will not be told you have taken part, and there will be no impact on the care you or your loved ones receive.
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Survey respondents could win a £50 Amazon voucher in the prize draw, and those who take part in an interview will receive a £40 Amazon voucher.
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You can take part if you are responsible for paying for your own care or for the care of someone else. For more information about this research and your rights, see the Participant Information Sheet:
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Worried about compliance for your end of year parties?
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We’ve hit November – so the countdown has started for Christmas parties, festive work get-togethers, and the general buzz of excitement as we head towards the New Year.
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However, these parties need a lot of pre-planning before they can become a reality. For example, when dealing with alcohol, do you know how to keep all your employees safe?
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Enter your free Citation HR and Health & Safety advice line. Call 0161 504 0843 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday for free, confidential Health & Safety and HR advice that puts you first. Remember to quote ‘ESPiC & BHPiC’ when you call!
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It’s estimated that around 237 million medication errors are made by the NHS every year (BMJ Quality & Safety, 2021).
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- Tuesday 18 November | 09:30 am – 1:00 pm | Webinar
- Thursday 11 December | 09:30 am – 1:00 pm | Webinar
Course Summary
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This masterclass teaches you how to manage, report, and learn from medication errors by viewing them as Opportunities to Learn (OTLs).
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You’ll gain an understanding of the correct reporting requirements to the relevant care regulator. The CQC in England, or the Scottish or Welsh Care Inspectorates, depending on where you work.
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We’ll also explore why high reported error rates can actually be a measure of success, as they reflect an open learning culture that ultimately reduces errors causing harm.
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Ready to Secure Your Place?
What You’ll Learn
This friendly and interactive session will help you:
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- Recognise, manage, and learn from medication errors
- Respond confidently to Safeguarding Teams and the CQC
- Foster a positive learning culture that reduces risk and promotes safer practice
You’ll Also Receive
- A comprehensive handout to support your learning during and after the session
- A free electronic copy of our medicines incident form and investigation protocols to use in your workplace
Group Bookings & In-House Sessions
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We offer special rates for group bookings and can deliver this masterclass virtually or in-house for your team.
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To discuss your organisation’s needs or request a tailored session, email marissa@medicationtraining.co.uk . We’ll be happy to help you find the best training solution.
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We look forward to supporting your journey towards safer medication practice.
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🧔 Movember: Supporting Men’s Health in Health and Social Care
What is Movember?
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Each November, people across the world grow moustaches or take part in activities to raise awareness for men’s health issues, particularly mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. The campaign encourages open conversations, early intervention, and proactive health checks—especially for men who might otherwise stay silent about their wellbeing.
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Why It Matters in Health and Social Care
In health and social care settings, we work closely with individuals and communities who may be affected by the issues Movember highlights.
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Mental Health: Men are statistically less likely to seek help for depression, anxiety, or emotional stress. Recognising early signs and encouraging open dialogue can make a lifesaving difference.
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Physical Health: Prostate and testicular cancers are among the most common cancers in men, yet stigma and lack of awareness often delay diagnosis. As care professionals, we play a vital role in promoting routine checks and conversations about symptoms.
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Wellbeing of Carers and Staff: Many of our colleagues and clients are men. Promoting Movember internally helps to create a supportive culture where everyone feels comfortable discussing their health and seeking support when needed.
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How You Can Get Involved
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🧠 Start a Conversation: Encourage open, stigma-free discussions about men’s mental and physical health with colleagues, service users, and families.
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🧔 Grow a Mo or Move for Movember: Participate in Movember challenges—grow a moustache, walk or run 60km for the 60 men lost to suicide each hour worldwide, or host a wellbeing event.
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📣 Share Information: Display posters or share links to local men’s health services, NHS screening programmes, or mental health helplines.
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💬 Check In: A simple “How are you, really?” can spark a valuable conversation and show that you care.
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Useful Resources
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This Movember, let’s work together to support men’s health and wellbeing—because early conversations and compassionate care can save lives.
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Events and Training
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More events have been added this week! Click here to view all upcoming events.
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Our Sponsors & Partners
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Click here to view our new and updated website with all our Sponsors!
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