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Over recent years, mental health has been getting increased attention, none of which is less than it deserves. Mental Health itself is a challenge, but knowing how to support someone who is struggling can feel overwhelming. That’s where Mental Health First Aid comes in.

Physical first aid teaches you how to respond to injuries. Mental Health First Aid trains people how to recognise and respond to early signs of mental health issues with confidence, empathy and the right next steps by offering non-judgmental support and reassurance.

So what does Mental Health First Aid cover? It gives people the tools and knowledge to spot the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, offer initial support and reassurance, understand how to handle a mental health crisis, and guide a person to the appropriate professional help.

It is not about being able to diagnose someone. It is about listening without judgement, responding appropriately, and knowing how to act in a crisis, as you would if someone was physically unwell.

Mental Health First Aid is important for a number of reasons.

In any given year 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem. Issues including anxiety, depression, trauma and stress-related issues are increasingly affecting children, young people and adults including those with autism or learning disabilities or those living in supported or residential care.

A person has a better chance of recovery if they get help sooner. By teaching people to spot the early signs that something is not right and to support a person to get help quickly, Mental Health First Aid allows for that chance.

Mental Health First Aid opens up conversations about mental health that previously have often been avoided due to shame or discomfort. The more we taka out mental health, the more that it is normalised and reduces the stigma by building a culture of openness and respect.

In a mental health crisis, such as a panic attack, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, making the right first response can save lives. Mental Health First Aid teaches people how to be calm, respond safely and connect individuals to urgent care if needed.

Anybody who works with other people can undertake Mental Health Training. For Moonrise it is important that we have staff trained in this area who can respond with sensitivity, understanding an confidence when a person they are supporting or a colleague they are working with needs help.

At Moonrise we have first hand accounts of the importance of Mental Health First Aid through our Outreach work with Children and Young People. Our trained staff working with one of our young people noticed that they had become withdrawn, stopped eating regularly and was avoiding eye contact. As the staff were Mental Health First Aid trained they recognised these as the early signs of depression, they approached the young person with empathy, not pressure by creating a safe space to talk and connected them with mental health services. Instead of being overlooked or misunderstood the young person received the early support needed to prevent a more serious crisis from occurring.

We see mental health and we value its importance and we support those who need it. This has been achieved by fostering trust, building resilience and showing people that their well-being matters and not just when things go wrong or get hard, but every day.

By investing in Mental Health First Aid we are creating a team that is stronger, safer and more compassionate by knowing that it is about being present, prepared and proactive, whether someone is in crisis or just needs to know that they are not alone.

Supported Living is more than just a place to stay — it’s about empowering individuals to live with dignity, independence, and purpose. Understanding what Supported Living can offer is key to making informed decisions about the support an individual needs. Here are five of the most frequently asked questions and what you need to know.

 

1 – What is Supported Living?

Supported Living is a model of care and support that helps individuals with additional needs to live independently, while receiving personalised support. This can be in their own home or a shared setting. It is ideal for those who want more independence but still require help with daily tasks such as budgeting, cooking, or managing medication.

 

2 – Who is Supported Living for?

Supported Living is typically for:

• Young adults transitioning from residential care
• People with learning disabilities or autism
• Individuals with physical or mental health needs
  Each person’s support plan is bespoke, ensuring it meets their specific needs, abilities, and life goals.

 

3 – How is it different from residential care?

The biggest difference is choice and independence. In residential care, support is usually structured around a group living environment whereas in Supported Living the individual has more control over their daily routines, environment and support. They often have tenancy rights and the option to furnish their own space to their preferences.

 

4 – What kind of support is provided?

Support provided under Supported Living can include:

–  Help with personal care or hygiene

–  Meal planning and cooking

–  Budgeting and bill management

–  Accessing education, work, or volunteering

–  Emotional and social development

The level of support is flexible  and can range from a few hours per week to 24/7 assistance.

 

5 – How do I know if Supported Living is the right option?

Ask yourself these key questions:

–  Does the person want more independence?

–  Can they safely manage some aspects of daily life with support?

–  Are they ready to take the next step from residential care or family living?

A thorough needs assessment and trial visits can often help determine the best fit.

 

Final Thought

Supported Living is about freedom, not isolation and support, not control. It can be a powerful way to help young people and adults live full, self-directed lives while staying safe and supported.

In today’s world we are becoming more aware than ever of the impact that trauma can have on a person’s life. Trauma can be due to childhood adversity, abuse, loss, neglect, or systemic discrimination, and it touches millions, often in unseen ways.

For those working in health and social care, this awareness calls for more than compassion alone. It calls for trauma-informed care. At Moonrise 24hr Recruitment Ltd, we see every day how trauma-informed practice can change lives for the better.

Trauma-informed care (TIC) is a care approach that recognises the widespread effects of trauma and blends that understanding into every aspect of support by changing the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What’s happened to you?”. It asks how we can help someone feel safe, empowered, and in control again and is an approach that is essential across all care settings.

Trauma itself is not rare, research shows that more than 1 in 3 adults have experienced some form of early adversity or trauma. Especially for the most vulnerable, the COVID-19 pandemic further intensified social isolation, grief, and mental health challenges, leaving us in a world where if we are not trauma-informed we risk re-traumatisation, misunderstanding, and poor outcomes.

Trauma Informed Care is guided by six core principles:

1 – Safety – Everyone feels physically and emotionally safe.

2 – Trust & Transparency – Open, consistent communication.

3 – Peer Support – Recovery is supported by connection and shared experience.

4 – Collaboration – Care is a partnership, not a hierarchy.

5 – Empowerment – People are supported to make choices and rebuild confidence.

6 – Cultural & Gender Sensitivity – Care respects identity, history, and personal values.

At Moonrise, we see trauma-informed care in action every day, whether that is in a young adult in supported living, who was once labelled “challenging,” but is now thriving after staff were trained to recognise trauma responses—not just behaviours.

Clients with complex needs, who previously rejected help, now welcomes visits from our staff because they feel heard, respected, and safe.

Staff who once felt overwhelmed are now more confident, resilient, and connected to the purpose behind their work.

Being trauma-informed does not happen overnight, it is a journey which starts with listening, reflecting, and committing to change and not just from frontline support workers but right through to leadership teams.

At Moonrise, our trauma-informed principles are embedded into; staff training and induction, care planning and reviews, client engagement and communication and recruitment and values-based matching. By doing this we are not just supporting the individual receiving care and support but also the staff supporting them by instilling a culture of empathy, accountability and healing.

In a world where trauma is common, trauma-informed care reminds us that healing is possible—when care is compassionate, respectful, and empowering.

By recognising the invisible wounds people carry from trauma, we can avoid re-traumatisation and help build strength, resilience, and trust. In a world where trauma is becoming more common it shows us that healing is possible when the care and support is compassionate, respectful and empowering.

Support work is not only one of the most compassionate and rewarding careers, it can also be emotionally and physically demanding. Often, support workers are so focused on helping others that they forget to look after themselves.

At Moonrise, we believe that you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Here are some practical and meaningful self-care tips for support workers to stay well, balanced, and fulfilled in the work they do.

 

1. Recognise the Signs of Burnout

Burnout can creep up slowly through emotional fatigue, irritability, sleep issues, or a sense of detachment. By recognising these early signs you can act before burnout takes hold. Take time to check in with yourself regularly — even five quiet minutes a day can help.

2. Prioritise Rest and Recovery

Support work often means working irregular hours or experience emotionally intense situations. Quality sleep, regular breaks, and true downtime, away from both screens and stressors, are essentials and not luxuries. Protect your rest as you would a shift.

3. Set Boundaries With Compassion

It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to switch off after hours. Setting healthy boundaries doesn’t mean you care less, it means you are giving your best sustainably. Talk with managers or coordinators if your workload feels unmanageable.

4. Nourish Your Body (as well as your Mind)

Eating well, staying hydrated, and moving your body regularly can improve your energy levels and mood. Having small daily routines like walking, stretching, or eating a proper lunch can make a big difference.

5. Connect With Others Who Understand

Whether it’s a co-worker, a friend, or a support group, having someone who “gets it” can ease the emotional weight. Sharing experiences, tips, or just a laugh can re-energise you.

6. Access Support When You Need It

You give so much to others, but you also deserve support. Don’t hesitate to seek help from mental health professionals, employee assistance programs, or your GP if you’re struggling. You are never alone.

7. Celebrate Your Impact

Take time to reflect on the lives you’ve touched and the difference you’ve made. Support work can feel thankless, but the care you give has a lasting ripple effect.

 Remember: caring for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. When you’re well, you’re at your best for the people you support. And you deserve to thrive, not just survive.

From all of us at Moonrise this National Carers Week: thank you for all that you do 💙

In the ever-changing environment of healthcare, adapting to regulatory changes is essential for organisations committed to delivering quality care and ensuring patient safety. At Moonrise 24hr Recruitment, we understand the necessity of remaining vigilant and proactive in response to these shifts.

As we step into 2025, the healthcare sector faces continued evolution—new technologies, revised regulations, and a growing demand for personalised care. Moonrise remains dedicated to navigating these changes with integrity and purpose. Our team is focused on maintaining the highest standards while staying ahead of emerging trends and policies.

The first step in our approach is to stay informed. By subscribing to updates from regulatory bodies and actively engaging with professional networks, we can anticipate changes in the regulatory landscape. Recently, we proudly achieved our CHAS certificate for health compliance, which not only underscores our commitment to high standards of health and safety but also enhances our credibility within the industry.

Regular training for our staff is a cornerstone of our strategy, ensuring that everyone comprehends new regulations and their implications for daily operations. We utilise advanced technology, such as compliance management software, to streamline our monitoring of regulatory changes and facilitate adherence to laws concerning patient privacy and data security. Read more about our training department here, Training Service – Moon Rise

Conducting regular internal audits is critical for assessing compliance and identifying areas for improvement. This proactive approach equips us to face inspections by regulatory bodies with confidence and reduces the risk of potential penalties. Additionally, fostering a culture of compliance within Moonrise encourages accountability and nurtures open dialogue around regulatory concerns.

Engaging with stakeholders including patients and staff is vital during the implementation of regulatory changes. Clear and transparent communication ensures that everyone understands how these changes affect their roles and responsibilities, fostering cooperation and facilitating a smoother transition.

In summary, while adapting to healthcare regulations presents its challenges, our commitment to continuous education, proactive planning, and open communication empowers us at Moonrise to navigate these changes effectively. This ensures that we uphold the highest standards of care and compliance, ultimately benefitting the individuals and communities we serve. Our expansion into Scotland reflects this commitment. By understanding local regulatory frameworks and tailoring our services to regional needs, Moonrise aims to set the standard for quality care and recruitment across new territories.

At Moonrise, adaptability is more than a necessity—it’s a value that drives our mission. As we head into 2025, we reaffirm our dedication to supporting our clients, care providers, and the communities we serve, ensuring that quality care remains at the heart of all we do.

Happy New Year from all of us at Moonrise! Here’s to another year of growth, compassion, and excellence

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas here at Moonrise, and we’re thrilled to share the joy with you through our 12 Days of Christmas Social Media Campaign! If you’ve been following along, you already know how festive and fun it’s been, but don’t worry if you’ve missed a few days—there’s still time to join in! We have five more days of exciting activities planned across our social media platforms: Instagram (@moonrise24hr), Facebook (@moonrise24hr), and LinkedIn (@moonrise24hr Recruitment).

Here’s a recap of the incredible days we’ve celebrated so far:

Day 1: Christmas Jumper Day 🎅
We kicked off the season with a bang! Our team pulled out their cosiest, funniest, and most festive jumpers to spread some holiday cheer.

Day 2: Meet the Team 🎉
You got a sneak peek behind the scenes at the amazing people who make Moonrise shine.  Fun video filled with all the faces in the office!

Day 3: Office Christmas Tree and Decorations 🎄
We decked the halls! Our office has been transformed into a winter wonderland, with a beautiful tree and sparkling decorations that truly bring the festive spirit to life.

Day 4: Cultural Food Day 🍲
Diversity is at the core of Moonrise, and what better way to celebrate it than through food? We showcased dishes from around the world, sharing stories and flavours that unite us all.

Day 5: Elf on the Shelf 🧝‍♂️
Our mischievous elf made its debut, reminiscing over the awards won by Jess and the team this year!

Day 6: Gifting Our Service Users 🎁
This was a day to remember. Our team delivered thoughtful gifts to our service users, spreading joy and showing just how much they mean to us during the holiday season.

And now… Day 7 is here! While we can’t spill the beans just yet, today promises to be another magical moment. Be sure to check our socials to see what’s in store—it’s something you won’t want to miss!

Why Join Us?

At Moonrise, we believe in building a community of care, joy, and togetherness. Whether we’re supporting our service users, celebrating our incredible team, or showcasing the little things that make the season special, our campaign is a reflection of our values.

🎄 How You Can Get Involved:

• Follow us on Instagram (@moonrise24hr), Facebook (@moonrise24hr), and LinkedIn (@moonrise24hr Recruitment).

• Catch up on past days and see how we’ve been spreading Christmas cheer.

• Stay tuned for the final five days—it’s not too late to join the fun!

Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable together. Head over to our pages now to see what we’re up to and share in the festive spirit!

In the modern era, healthcare is increasingly reliant on digital technologies. Electronic Health Records (EHRs), telemedicine, and various health applications have revolutionized patient care. However, this digital transformation brings significant challenges in data security and privacy. Safeguarding patient information is paramount to ensure trust, compliance, and the overall effectiveness of healthcare systems.

The Importance of Data Security in Healthcare

Healthcare data breaches can have severe consequences, including identity theft, financial loss, and compromised patient care. The sensitivity of health information makes it a prime target for cybercriminals.

Key Components of Healthcare Data Security

1. Confidentiality: Ensuring that patient information is accessible only to authorized individuals. This involves implementing strict access controls and encryption.
2. Integrity: Protecting data from being altered or tampered with. This includes mechanisms to verify data accuracy and consistency.
3. Availability: Ensuring that data is accessible to authorized users when needed. This involves robust backup and disaster recovery plans.

Confidentiality Measures

One of the primary methods to ensure confidentiality is encryption. Encrypting data both in transit and at rest protects it from unauthorized access. Advanced encryption standards (AES) are widely used for this purpose.

Additionally, access controls such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access control (RBAC) are critical. These controls ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information.

Integrity Measures

To maintain data integrity, digital signatures and hashing are commonly used. These techniques verify that the data has not been altered. Hashing algorithms like SHA-256 produce a unique hash value for each data set, which changes if the data is tampered with.

Availability Measures

Redundancy and backup solutions ensure data availability. Regular backups and storing them in multiple locations mitigate the risk of data loss due to hardware failures or cyberattacks.

Consent and Access Control

Patients should have control over who accesses their health information. Consent management systems enable patients to grant or revoke access to their data.

Anonymization and De-identification

To protect patient privacy, healthcare providers often use anonymization and de-identification techniques. These methods remove or obfuscate personally identifiable information (PII) from datasets, allowing data to be used for research without compromising patient privacy.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite advancements in data security and privacy, healthcare organizations face ongoing challenges such as sophisticated cyberattacks, regulatory compliance, and the integration of new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT).

Cybersecurity Threats

Healthcare organizations must stay vigilant against threats like ransomware, phishing, and malware. Regular security training for staff and investing in advanced cybersecurity solutions are crucial.

Regulatory Compliance

Staying compliant with laws such as HIPAA, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and other regional regulations requires continuous effort and adaptation.

Conclusion

Data security and privacy in healthcare are critical for maintaining patient trust and ensuring the safe and effective delivery of care. At Moonrise 24hr Recruitment we are committed to safeguard the privacy and security of your personal health information. We understand that your trust is built on the assurance that your data is handled with the utmost care and protected against any threats. By continuously updating our practices to combat emerging risks, we ensure that your information remains confidential, accurate, and accessible only to authorized individuals. Your privacy is our priority, and we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of data security to protect the integrity of the care we provide. Thank you for entrusting us with your health information and for being a valued part of our community.

Last Friday, Moonrise had the honour of attending the prestigious Novi Awards 2024 at The Londoner Hotel, right in the heart of London. It was an inspiring evening filled with recognition of remarkable leaders and innovators across various industries.

The highlight of the night for us was seeing our Founder and CEO, Jessica Gwaringa, take the stage to accept the award for Female Entrepreneur of the Year. This accolade is a testament to her unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and the transformative impact she has made in the care industry.

Jessica’s acceptance speech was both heartfelt and motivational. Reflecting on this milestone, she said:
“This award holds a special place in my heart, not only as a testament to the hard work and dedication I’ve invested in my journey but also as a source of renewed confidence and courage to reach even greater heights.”

For over a decade, Jessica has guided Moonrise with vision and determination, building a care agency that puts compassion and quality at the forefront of everything we do. Under her leadership, Moonrise has grown from a North East-based organisation into a nationally recognised and trusted name in care services, now expanding into Scotland.

The evening was not just about celebrating individual achievements; it was also a reminder of the power of resilience, innovation, and teamwork. The Moonrise team was privileged to accompany Jessica to the awards and to witness her success being recognised on such a prominent stage.

This award reflects the values we hold dear at Moonrise—dedication, empathy, and excellence. It is a moment of pride for the entire team and a stepping stone as we look to the future with renewed ambition.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Novi Awards for hosting such a wonderful event at The Londoner Hotel, bringing together trailblazers from all walks of life. It was an evening to remember, and we are inspired to continue striving for excellence in the care sector.

Congratulations to Jessica and to all the other winners and nominees who are making a difference in their respective fields!

About Moonrise

Moonrise is a leading care agency providing services across the UK. From domiciliary care to supported living, children’s services and transport our mission is to make compassionate, high-quality care accessible to all.

Follow our journey as we continue to grow and innovate, guided by the award-winning leadership of Jessica Gwaringa.

Caregiving can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it often comes with significant emotional challenges. Whether you’re caring for a loved one with a chronic illness, an ageing parent, or someone with a disability, the emotional toll can be profound. In this blog, we’ll explore five key emotional challenges caregivers face and provide strategies for navigating them effectively.

Feeling Overwhelmed

Challenge:

The responsibilities of caregiving can quickly become overwhelming. Balancing personal life, work, and caregiving duties can lead to feelings of stress and burnout.

Strategy:

• Prioritise Self-Care: Schedule regular breaks, engage in activities you enjoy, and practise mindfulness or relaxation techniques. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
• Set Realistic Goals: Break tasks into manageable steps and set achievable goals. Celebrate small victories to help maintain a positive outlook.

 

Guilt and Shame

Challenge:

Caregivers often experience guilt—whether it’s feeling inadequate, wishing for more personal time, or struggling with frustration. These feelings can create a heavy emotional burden.

Strategy:

• Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. Recognise that experiencing guilt doesn’t mean you are a bad caregiver.
• Talk About It: Share your feelings with friends, family, or support groups. Connecting with others who understand can help alleviate feelings of isolation and shame.

 

Isolation

Challenge:

Caregiving can lead to social isolation, as caregivers may withdraw from social activities due to their responsibilities or feelings of guilt.

Strategy:

• Stay Connected: Make a conscious effort to maintain social connections. Schedule regular catch-ups with friends or family, even if they are virtual.
• Join Support Groups: Look for local or online caregiver support groups. Sharing experiences with others can help you feel less alone and provide valuable insights.

 

Grief and Loss

Challenge:

Caregivers may experience anticipatory grief when caring for someone with a terminal illness or when dealing with progressive conditions that change the loved one’s personality or abilities.

Strategy:

• Acknowledge Your Grief: Allow yourself to feel and express grief. Journaling, art, or talking with a therapist can provide outlets for these emotions.
• Seek Professional Help: Consider speaking with a mental health professional who specialises in caregiver issues. They can provide tools to help you process your emotions.

 

Managing Stress

Challenge:

The ongoing demands of caregiving can lead to chronic stress, impacting physical health and emotional well-being.

Strategy:

• Develop a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can create a sense of normality and control. Incorporate time for self-care and relaxation.
• Practise Stress-Relief Techniques: Engage in activities like yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises to manage stress levels. Regular physical activity can also help reduce anxiety.

 

Conclusion

Navigating the emotional challenges of caregiving is no small feat, but you don’t have to face it alone. By recognising these challenges and implementing effective strategies, you can foster resilience and maintain your emotional well-being. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one. If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to seek support—whether from friends, family, or professional resources. You deserve the same care and compassion that you give to others.

In today’s fast-paced business environment, administrative staff play a crucial role in keeping organizations running smoothly. As the backbone of many offices, their responsibilities range from managing schedules and communications to ensuring efficient workflow and supporting various teams. To maintain effectiveness and adaptability, continuous training for administrative staff is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Here are several reasons why ongoing professional development is vital for these key team members.

 

1. Keeping Up with Technology

Technology is constantly evolving, and so are the tools and software that administrative staff rely on daily. From advanced project management applications to sophisticated communication platforms, staying updated with the latest technologies can significantly enhance productivity. Continuous training helps administrative professionals become proficient in these tools, ensuring they can leverage technology to streamline operations and support their teams effectively.

2. Enhancing Skills and Knowledge

The scope of administrative duties is broad, encompassing everything from office management to customer service. Continuous training allows administrative staff to build on their existing skills and acquire new ones. This not only improves their performance but also boosts their confidence in handling diverse tasks. Whether it’s learning advanced Excel techniques or mastering time management strategies, ongoing education fosters a culture of growth and self-improvement.

3. Adapting to Changing Business Needs

The business landscape is dynamic, with changes in regulations, market conditions, and organizational goals. Continuous training equips administrative staff with the knowledge to adapt to these changes effectively. By understanding new compliance requirements or evolving industry standards, they can help ensure that the organization remains compliant and competitive.

4. Promoting Career Advancement

Investing in continuous training demonstrates an organization’s commitment to the professional development of its administrative staff. This not only boosts morale but also encourages employees to take charge of their career paths. With access to training opportunities, administrative professionals can pursue advancement within the organization, ultimately leading to higher retention rates and reduced turnover costs.

5. Fostering a Positive Work Environment

A commitment to continuous training fosters a culture of learning and collaboration. When organizations prioritize professional development, it signals to employees that their growth matters. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher engagement levels, and improved teamwork. A positive work environment where continuous learning is valued encourages administrative staff to share knowledge and best practices, enhancing overall team performance.

6. Improving Customer Service

Administrative staff often serve as the first point of contact for clients and customers. Ongoing training can help them develop strong communication skills, improve their problem-solving abilities, and enhance their emotional intelligence. These skills are essential for providing excellent customer service, which can significantly impact an organization’s reputation and client retention.

7. Boosting Organizational Efficiency

Well-trained administrative staff are more efficient and effective in their roles. By understanding best practices and innovative processes through continuous training, they can identify bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and implement time-saving strategies. This not only benefits their individual performance but also contributes to the overall efficiency of the organization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, continuous training for administrative staff is crucial for fostering a skilled, adaptable, and motivated workforce. By investing in their professional development, organizations can enhance productivity, improve employee satisfaction, and maintain a competitive edge in an ever-changing business environment. As we look to the future, prioritizing the ongoing education of administrative professionals will undoubtedly lead to greater success for both the individuals and the organizations they support.