In this episode, Neil Hughes-Hutchings, Senior Health and Safety Consultant at AfterAthena Ltd, discusses the critical topic of fire strategy. Neil emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive fire strategy for buildings, noting that its absence can significantly worsen the effects of a fire. He explains that a fire strategy includes the building’s designed fire evacuation provision, supporting fire safety measures, and the evacuation plan. Detailed recommendations are provided for both simple and complex premises, such as maintaining as-built plans, fire safety equipment specifications, and evacuation procedures for disabled persons. Neil stresses that the fire strategy should remain a living document, updated with significant changes, to ensure compliance and enhance safety within the organisation.

In this episode, Neil Hughes-Hutchings, Senior Health and Safety Consultant at AfterAthena Ltd, explores a significant issue regarding hand-arm vibration risks. An NHS Trust was fined £40,000 after employees were diagnosed with Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) due to prolonged exposure to work equipment vibration. The Trust admitted to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and paid £4,911 in costs. This case highlights the importance of employers understanding their duties under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations.

In this episode, Neil Hughes-Hutchings, Senior Health and Safety Consultant at AfterAthena Ltd, introduces a British Standard outlining the minimum requirements for fire risk assessors in terms of knowledge, skills, experience, and professional behaviors. Emphasizing the significance of the Building Safety Act 2022 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the episode highlights the need for responsible persons to ensure that fire risk assessments are performed by competent individuals. This standard helps provide a clear framework for assessing competence, ensuring compliance, and enhancing life safety.

In this episode, Neil Hughes-Hutchings, Senior Health and Safety Consultant at AfterAthena Ltd, explores the significant topic of "grey fleet" vehicles. Neil defines grey fleet vehicles as those owned and driven by employees for business purposes, including those under cash allowance schemes. He emphasizes the importance of employers understanding their responsibilities under health and safety legislation, particularly the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

In this episode, Neil Hughes-Hutchings, Senior Health and Safety Consultant at AfterAthena Ltd, discusses the critical topic of authorisations to drive, also known as permits to drive. Neil emphasizes the importance of employers maintaining control over their vehicles by ensuring that only licensed, competent, and authorised individuals are allowed to drive on company business. The episode provides detailed recommendations for employers, including assessing driver attitudes and fitness, conducting thorough licence checks, implementing drug and alcohol policies, and maintaining comprehensive records. Neil’s guidance aims to reduce the risk of accidents, ensure legal compliance, and protect both senior managers and their organisations.

In this episode, Neil Hughes-Hutchings, Senior Health and Safety Consultant at AfterAthena Ltd, delves into the intricacies of working at height in the social care sector. From navigating the unique risks in varied work environments to ensuring proper training and equipment, Neil provides comprehensive guidance to safeguard both staff and service users. The episode underscores essential strategies to maintain safety, compliance, and well-being, highlighting the importance of thorough planning and adherence to legal requirements in these settings.

In this episode, Neil Hughes-Hutchings, Senior Health and Safety Consultant at AfterAthena Ltd, explores the challenges of remote and mobile working (RMW). From setting up a safe and comfortable home workspace to supporting mental well-being on the move, Neil shares practical advice to help both employers and employees. The episode highlights key strategies to promote safety, compliance and well-being in flexible work environments.

Episode Overview

‘Everyone should have access to the expertise they need, in the location they choose, and in a way that makes sense to them.’

In this funny, thoughtful and inspiring conversation, dementia campaigner, consultant and writer Beth Britton MBE joins host Barry Price to explore what the future of dementia care could look like and why timely, personalised support matters.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Beth’s personal journey from supporting her father with dementia to becoming a leading national voice
• Why she believes dementia needs its own standalone plan separate from the NHS ten-year plan
• The focus on rehabilitation and community-based support for people living with dementia
• How providers and families can work as true partners in care
• Training, resources and practical tips for people living with dementia, carers and professionals

Why This Matters

Beth’s story combines lived experience with decades of frontline work, policy influence and training. This episode offers both a human story and a blueprint for change, with useful tips and information for people living with dementia, carers and family members who are supporting someone with dementia.

Listen to Episode 20

🎧 Also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

About Our Guest: Beth Britton MBE

Beth Britton is a writer, consultant and campaigner on dementia and social care. She has worked with government bodies, care providers and charities, and was awarded an MBE in 2025 for services to dementia care. Her expertise derives from both her professional work and her personal experience caring for her father, who lived with vascular dementia for many years.

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Useful links from Beth

Beth’s G8 film: https://youtu.be/8QAKEgQMOcU?si=CmXptb6D18-HKlk-

TIDE: https://www.tide.uk.net/

Dementia Carers Count: https://dementiacarers.org.uk/

A good life with dementia: https://www.innovationsindementia.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Good-Life-Resource-Pack_Web.pdf

My life, my goals: http://www.innovationsindementia.org.uk/2021/09/my-life-my-goals/

World Alzheimer Report 2025: https://www.alzint.org/resource/world-alzheimer-report-2025/

Wendy’s books: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/author/wendy-mitchell/

Dementia Community webinars: https://journalofdementiacare.co.uk/events/webinars-2

Dementia Community news: https://journalofdementiacare.co.uk/category/news

Beth's website: http://www.bethbritton.com/