There are several local and regional networks across England established to support learning and sharing of practice across the care home sector. We will highlight some of these networks with examples of work taking place.

Winners of the Nursing Times Patient Pathway Award

Rotherham and Doncaster Care Homes Liaison Service

"The service has resulted in a significant reduction in the number of unnecessary hospital admissions, the length of patient stays and the number of patients requiring antipsychotic medication. The team has also worked tirelessly with care home staff, breaking down barriers to improve their knowledge and skills through better communication and training."

Nursing Times www.nursingtimes.net

The Learning Network for Dementia, in Selby & York is coordinated by a steering group made up of of independent care providers and a representative from North Yorkshire and York PCT. The network stage free learning events for senior care home managers in the locality and produce a regular newsletter.

The number of Care Home liaison team services is building and examples of models used will also be added to this community of interest.