In recent years, supply chain disruptions have become a pressing concern for care home groups. From food shortages to challenges sourcing critical non-food supplies, these interruptions can jeopardise daily operations and, most importantly, resident wellbeing.
As the care sector grows more complex, building supply chain resilience is no longer a “nice to have”, it’s essential!
Why Are Supply Chain Disruptions Such a Challenge for Care Homes?
Care homes face unique risks when supply chains falter:
- Resident Impact: Menu changes and delayed deliveries can affect nutrition, comfort, and quality of life.
- Compliance Pressures: Hygiene, medicine, and dietary standards leave little room for error.
- Budget Constraints: Price fluctuations or rush orders can blow site and group budgets.
- Coordination Hurdles: Multi-site care home groups must balance central oversight with local needs, often with limited data or visibility.
How Can Care Home Groups Build a Resilient Supply Chain?
Here are some practical strategies care home operators can use to navigate uncertainty:
- Strengthen Supplier Relationships
Work with reliable suppliers who understand the compliance and urgency of the care sector. Communicate regularly about potential risks, upcoming demand spikes, and delivery forecasts.
- Embrace Flexible Procurement
Diversifying suppliers and allowing for alternative products can help minimise disruption if one item becomes unavailable. Set clear processes for substitutions that maintain resident safety and satisfaction.
- Leverage Technology and Dashboards
Digital procurement solutions (like Freshmarkets) provide visibility across sites, from purchasing to inventory and usage. Real-time dashboards allow care managers to respond to shortages proactively, reallocate stock, and track supplier performance.
- Focus on Contingency Planning
Develop documented backup plans for common supply chain risks, whether it’s menu adjustments, rapid reordering, or site-to-site transfers.
- Keep Residents and Teams Informed
Transparent communication with residents, families, and frontline staff builds understanding and helps manage expectations when changes are needed.
Supportive Partnerships
Navigating supply chain disruptions doesn’t have to be a solo effort. Trusted partners with sector expertise, like EF-group, help care home groups build robust procurement strategies, access innovative technology, and benefit from a wide, supportive supplier network.
Working together, care homes can stay resilient and focused on what matters most: quality of care.
To find out more please contact Chris Kirton: chriskirton@ef-group.co.uk or call on 07484 521996 and let us take the strain of your supply chain.
