HelpToCare, an app created in Kent, has been shortlisted for an award, recognising outstanding contributions to healthcare.
The app features over 30 advice and guidance articles on a range of care-related topics, which support the identification of signs of deterioration and encourage appropriate, timely referrals to suitable NHS, social care and voluntary sector services.
It is designed to provide a free, public-facing solution to support carers and the people they care for.
Commissioned by the Kent and Medway Sustainability and Transformation Partnership (STP), the app has been shortlisted in the Health Service Journal Awards’ System Led Support for Carers category.
It was developed by NHS NEL Commissioning Support Unit, delivered by Kent County Council’s (KCC’s) Design and Learning Centre, with the project board including representatives from NHS local care, digital transformation, Medway Council and KCC.
Collaborative efforts
Cathy Bellman, Associate Director for Integrated Care Partnership (ICP) and Primary Care Network (PCN) Development at NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the System Led Support for Carers award, recognising the collaborative efforts and dedication of the partnership over the last 12 months to successfully implement the HelpToCare App, which supports all those in a caring role.
“We are committed to delivering improved outcomes for our residents, and to be chosen among the other incredible nominees is a wonderful achievement.
“This nomination has been a tremendous boost to everyone involved and I am sure it will bolster our continued efforts to improve our services.”
The app is based on the award-winning Stop Look Care booklet created by our neighbouring Brighton and Hove Clinical Commissioning Group.
Kent carers identified their own psychological wellbeing and their ability to manage nursing tasks as being key challenges. The Help to Care app now provides support in both areas in direct response to this need.
Positive impact
The project was shortlisted for the award based on the team’s ambition, visionary spirit and the demonstrable positive impact that their project has had on patient and staff experiences within the health and/or social care sector.
The judging panel consists of a diverse range of highly influential and respected figures within the healthcare community including: Sir Bruce Keogh, Chair, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s FT, Mark Axcell, Chief Executive, Black Country Healthcare FT and Caroline Beardall, Director of Workforce and OD, NHS England and NHS Improvement – South East.
Essential support
Clair Bell, KCC Cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Health said: “Since its launch in May, the HelpToCare app has provided essential support to our carers in Kent during extremely challenging circumstances as a result of the pandemic restrictions.
“I am delighted that it has been shortlisted for this award; a much-deserved accolade for this valuable and successful project.”
Cllr David Brake, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Adults’ Services, said: “We are delighted that the Help to Care app has been shortlisted for an HSJ award.
“The app has been vital tool to help all carers, including those who look after their friends or family members, access support and advice when they need it the most.
“The app is a fantastic example of our continued partnership working to make sure carers know they are not alone.”
Winners will be selected ahead of the ceremony, which will take place virtually in March 2021.
