YOUR
RIGHT TO CHOOSE
Preparing for long term care
People usually move into care because of failing health and increased dependency.
If you are unsure of your needs then speak to your doctor who will advise you.
It should be possible for you to visit the home and, ideally, stay a few days.
If you, your relatives, or friends can pay the home's fees in full then you can
make your own arrangements to go into any residential care or nursing home. Contact
Social Services if you need help to pay the fees. You will still have the right
to choose any home you like, as long as four key points are satisfied.
- You have been assessed as needing residential or nursing home care and the
preferred accommodation is suitable in relation to your needs.
- There is a place available.
- The home can provide that care at a price the authority would usually expect
to pay or you are able to arrange a "top up", perhaps from a relative
or friend.
- The home is willing to provide accommodation subject to the authority's usual
terms and conditions.
If the NHS is to fund your care in a nursing home then you still have a right
to choose the home you wish to live in as long as it provides the specialist
care you require.
You can move from one home to another and have exactly the same rights to choose
the new home as you did the first one.
People unable to make their own choices
If the prospective resident is unable to express a preference for themselves
the authorities must act on the preferences expressed by their carers in the
same way that they would on the resident's own wishes, unless that would be against
the best interest of the resident.
Challenging decisions
Your right to choose is written into law. If you believe your right to choose
is being infringed you should quote LAC (92)27 to the authority.
Paying for care
If you move into a residential care or nursing home with financial support from
Social Services then they will make arrangements to pay the fees. Your contribution
to the fees will take into account your own income and capital.
RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES
- Are run by councils, charities, housing associations or private individuals
- Provide accommodation, meals and personal care for the elderly
NURSING HOMES
Are mostly privately owned; some are run by councils and charitable organisations
- Care is provided by qualified nursing staff 24 hours a day
- They cater for patients with special needs such as those suffering from Alzheimer's
disease or incontinence problems
ALL HOMES
- Are registered with the local social services department
- Have their facilities and standards checked regularly
- Will welcome you to visit them to have a good look round before you make
your final choice. Choosing the right home could make all the difference.
FURTHER ADVICE
Independent organisations such as Citizens Advice Bureau and Age Concern are
happy to provide further guidance on the current rules and your rights.
