Keiron Broadbent • December 9, 2020
Hints and Tips on recruiting staff
We've all had to work differently over the last year and that includes how we recruit staff.
We are hearing that recruitment remains an issue for a lot of care providers so we have put together some hints and tips that we have picked up while talking to you
Look at implementing a refer a friend system . Incentivising your staff to refer friends/family for vacancies can have real benefits. Although you won't get the volumes you will get quaility as staff generally are unwilling to refer someone they don't trust to do the job as they feel it reflects badly on them. You can offer vouchers for example for referrals that result in interview or employemnt. You may choose to implement a system like Care Friends which we know some of our members are seeing real benefits from
Use application forms, rather than CVs . A candidate who takes the time to fill in an application form is likely to be more interested in the vacancy than one who is sending out multiple CVs. It also means you can be consistent with the recruitment information you require. Jobsites such as Indeed can support referring job ads back to your website for this
Do a short initial video interview . A short 5-10 minute introduction interview will filter out time wasters or no-shows before you conduct a more indepth interview
Talk to your Local Authority about using their Adult Social Care Staff . Many Local Authority Day Centres are currently closed and you may be able to utilise their staff as a temporary resource. This has the advantage that they are already familiar with care work. Talk to your commissoners whether this a possiblity (Walsall MBC are already doing this)
Speak to your local Job Centre about ways they can help . The quality of candisates from job centres is often criticised but Job Centres may be able to help with pre sifting candidates
Don't forget social media . Facebook now has a jobs facilty and these can be shared by staff members
We hope these are useful. If you have any useful recruitment tips you'd like to share, please let us know
We are hearing that recruitment remains an issue for a lot of care providers so we have put together some hints and tips that we have picked up while talking to you
Look at implementing a refer a friend system . Incentivising your staff to refer friends/family for vacancies can have real benefits. Although you won't get the volumes you will get quaility as staff generally are unwilling to refer someone they don't trust to do the job as they feel it reflects badly on them. You can offer vouchers for example for referrals that result in interview or employemnt. You may choose to implement a system like Care Friends which we know some of our members are seeing real benefits from
Use application forms, rather than CVs . A candidate who takes the time to fill in an application form is likely to be more interested in the vacancy than one who is sending out multiple CVs. It also means you can be consistent with the recruitment information you require. Jobsites such as Indeed can support referring job ads back to your website for this
Do a short initial video interview . A short 5-10 minute introduction interview will filter out time wasters or no-shows before you conduct a more indepth interview
Talk to your Local Authority about using their Adult Social Care Staff . Many Local Authority Day Centres are currently closed and you may be able to utilise their staff as a temporary resource. This has the advantage that they are already familiar with care work. Talk to your commissoners whether this a possiblity (Walsall MBC are already doing this)
Speak to your local Job Centre about ways they can help . The quality of candisates from job centres is often criticised but Job Centres may be able to help with pre sifting candidates
Don't forget social media . Facebook now has a jobs facilty and these can be shared by staff members
We hope these are useful. If you have any useful recruitment tips you'd like to share, please let us know
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Supporting People Living with Dementia During Halloween While Halloween can be a fun and festive time for many, it can present unique challenges for people living with dementia. The sudden changes in environment — from decorations and costumes to unfamiliar sounds and social interactions — may lead to increased confusion, anxiety, or distress. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind: π§ Confusion & Disorientation Halloween brings unusual sights and sounds, such as costumes, animated decorations, and themed music. These can be disorienting and may heighten feelings of anxiety or fear. π Strangers & Social Interactions For those who struggle to recognise familiar faces, engaging with costumed individuals can be unsettling and may lead to withdrawal or distress. πΆβοΈ Impacts on Mobility Decorations like hanging spiders, wires, or floor props can become physical hazards, especially for individuals with mobility issues who may feel unsure navigating altered spaces. π Overstimulation Loud music, sound effects, and busy environments can easily overwhelm someone with dementia, leading to agitation or confusion. π Changes in Routine & Environment Quick changes to the layout or appearance of a care home — such as sudden decorations — can disrupt a person’s sense of familiarity and make it harder for them to understand where they are. Recommendations for a Dementia-Friendly Halloween To ensure Halloween remains safe and inclusive, consider the following approaches: π Use autumnal decorations Opt for seasonal, non-threatening décor that supports orientation and creates a calming atmosphere. π―οΈ Create a calm environment Limit exposure to loud noises, flashing lights, and crowded spaces to reduce overstimulation. π°οΈ Maintain daily routines Keeping familiar schedules helps provide stability and reassurance. π€ Monitor interactions If Halloween activities are planned, stay close to individuals with dementia, observe their responses, and offer gentle reassurance as needed. π Promote care, not fear Above all, foster an environment rooted in empathy, understanding, and comfort — where care takes precedence over spectacle. By making thoughtful adjustments, we can ensure Halloween is a positive experience for everyone — especially those living with dementia.
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