What is CHIP?
The Lothian Care Home Innovation Partnership (CHIP) was formed in Autumn 2018 and founded by Dr Jo Hockley. CHIP was formed as a result of workshops held across Lothian to update Care Home managers regarding the wider vision for a teaching/research-based Care Home (ToRCH) centre for Lothian and South East Scotland. Its initial purpose was to initiate tests for change and involved six Care Homes across Lothian. These included ‘not for profit’, private and council run homes of varying sizes.
CHIP has now evolved and is part of ENRICH (Enabling Research in Care Homes) ENRICH Scotland | NHS Research Scotland | NHS Research Scotland. CHIP is co-chaired by Prof. Susan Shenkin, Reader and Honorary Consultant Geriatrician, University of Edinburgh/NHS Lothian and Cheryl Henderson RN, Education and Dementia Co-ordinator for Elder Homes Ltd.
A Glasgow City CHIP has also been established.
What does CHIP do?
CHIP meets 3- 4 monthly generally in person, and focuses on tests of change on a range of topics, including:
- AI and tech development, including electronic care planning and pain assessment
- Student placements and staff development
- Involvement in end-of-life debriefs
- Medication issues including: end of life & e-mar
- Involvement in research
In addition, CHIP also:
- Support each other
- Offer a safe discussion place for all things care home
- Inform and take part in research
- Share up to date information with each other and with input from Care Home adjacent colleagues, particularly around end of life, research and Quality Improvement (QI)
Contact and further information
To contact CHIP or request further information please email tay.enrichscotland@nhs.scot
Updated October 2026 CH, SS, BMc & HS
