Most people want to remain in their own homes, however for some people this becomes impossible due to the amount of care they require, the risks they may face living alone, or the fact that they just need company and the security of knowing someone is there 24 hours a day.

Having decided that moving into a care home would best suit your needs you should first contact Social Services to find out if you are eligible for financial assistance, or if you are in hospital the staff will contact Social Services for you. It is important that Social Services are contacted before admission to a care home, as it cannot be assumed that the council will pay or contribute towards the fees.

If you are not entitled to any assistance with funding, because your savings are in excess of £23,250, you have a very high weekly income or you do not meet their criteria, you will have to find the full cost of your personal care. If you fall into this category but you also need nursing care; the nursing element of your care will be paid for by the Health Authority, providing your need has been assessed and approved by the local Primary Care Trust. (See Free Nursing Care)

However if you are entitled to funding a social worker or health worker will carry out an assessment of your needs which will tell you if you meet the criteria for residential or nursing home care. If you meet the criteria they will then carry out a financial assessment to ascertain what level of funding you are entitled to. (See Funding)

Following these assessments you have the right to choose any residential or nursing home providing the home is registered with CQC, there is a place available, the home can meet your needs and is suitable, a contract can be agreed between the home and Council and if the fees exceed the amount the Council is prepared to pay, you have a third party sponsor who is prepared to pay the difference or Top Up (See Top ups)

There are several different types of homes available-
Private
Voluntary/Charitable
Small Homes (Max of three persons)
Local Authority /Council (Residential only)

 When choosing a home you may want to consider the following-
 
•  Location of the home, proximity to local amenities- shops, library, bus stop, church etc. Will relatives and friends be able to visit easily?

•  Is the home registered to cover the care category you are looking for?
(See Care Categories)

•  Have you seen the latest Inspection report?

•  Can the home meet your specific requirements i.e. diet, religion, etc.

•  Does the home have the facilities that you need and are important to you e.g. Lift, assisted bathing, en-suite toilet, garden etc.

•  Will you be able to maintain your independence, have choices and live the way you would like to.

•  Have you checked and considered the cost of extra services such as newspapers, hairdressing, and chiropody.

•  The type of home, would you prefer a private, local authority or voluntary/charitable home, then you may want to consider the size of the home; would you prefer to live in a smaller home or a large multi care category home.

•  Do you think you will fit in with the existing residents in the home?

Once you have made your decision and all parties are agreed arrangements will be made for you to move in to the home and a date will be agreed for your admission.
Please note if you are self funding, once you have chosen a home, you can make your own arrangements for admission.