Choosing a home

Making a care choice for yourself or a member of the family can be an emotional and difficult decision. It is important to ensure you have as much information as possible about the types of services available, and what provision is most likely to meet your needs or the needs of a relative.

Once you have received a brochure or arranged for a visit, or representative to visit, you may wish to ask some questions.

Useful questions to ask:

Is the organisation a member of a professional association such as Care and Support West?
Does the organisation work to a recognised Code of Conduct?
Does the organisation have a confidentiality policy?
Does the organisation have full professional and employer’s liability insurance?
Can the organisation provide proof that they train their new staff before they start working?
Does the agency provide additional training and updates for existing staff?
Are all care workers referenced and interviewed and do they undergo criminal records checks and POVA checks?
Is there a complaints procedure?
What is the range of services offered?
Does the organisation have standard Terms and Conditions of Business?
Does the organisation offer an initial visit/assessment?
What is the cost and how is it charged?
Is the price all-inclusive, or are there any extras, for example VAT?
Does each resident have a ‘key worker’?
What security measures are in place?

You can see the most recent CSCI inspection reports via the CSCI website (See Useful Links). Do not be afraid to ask questions about the report.

Once you have chosen a homecare provider, make sure there are procedures in place to review care from time to time, and to provide feedback on the service. Residents should be able to have the opportunity to express their wishes on their care.

In our list of Useful Links, you will find links to a range of agencies that represent different types of social care. Also, on this site, the directory lists Care and Support West members by area with contact details.