Specialist Oral Health Training - Care Staff Receive Certificates

Two members of PerCurra Grantham & Newark’s care team have now been trained as SONA Ambassadors. SONA stands for ‘Swallowing, Oral Health and Nutrition’ and the Ambassador scheme is run by the Lincolnshire Care Association. The aim is to train care workers who can then act as a resource and a point of contact for colleagues.

Matt Sherwood and Angela Towson completed four days of training workshops. They will promote the SONA guidelines among fellow PerCurra Grantham & Newark care staff by encouraging colleagues to recognise oral health issues.

Matt explained: “When our Registered Care Manager Michelle asked if I would like to take part in this training I said yes immediately. I always embrace training opportunities. As soon as Angela and myself started the course we both said that we could see the potential. We have learnt how to identify oral health issues such as early signs of cancer and also dental problems that could mean that food isn’t chewed properly. If food can’t be swallowed easily, other health problems can follow.

“For instance, Angela identified a client who is bedridden and gets frequent chest infections. During the training we learnt that trouble swallowing and food going the wrong way can lead to chest infections. By passing on this information we can get extra help for that client that could lessen or even prevent those infections. I’m really pleased to have added these new skills that enable me to support our clients.”

As part of the SONA training Matt and Angela were taught how to gain access to NHS dental care for their clients – for both routine and urgent issues and how to apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme where appropriate. They will also be involved in ensuring that all clients have a formal oral health care plan in place that is frequently reviewed.