Tick List

• General

  Is the home family operated with clear lines of communication with the owners available? Is it run by a large, faceless organisation where getting problems rectified and true accountability might prove difficult?

  What is the atmosphere like?

• The physical environment

  Does it meet the 'National Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Older People'?

  How well is the home maintained? Does it look like money is re-invested in the home?

  Is there easy access to the emergency call systems?

  Is there sufficient special equipment to aid mobility in all rooms?

  Are there handrails in the hallways and corridors?

  Are the corridors well lit?

  Is the home fully wheelchair accessible?

  Is there a facility to store electronic scooters and charge them?

  If you have a hearing or sight impairment, are your needs catered for?

  Is there a quiet area away from the main lounge?

  Is the home clean, well-kept and inviting?

  Do you like the decoration?

  Is the garden landscaped, accessible, safe and interesting?

  Is the room a good size?

  Are there en suite facilities?

  Can you adjust the heating and open the windows?

  Will you be able to entertain visitors in your own room?

  Will you be able to watch television, enjoy satellite television, make a private phone call or have access to the internet if you choose to do so?

  Can you bring some of your own belongings to make your room more personal?

  Is there a lockable facility in the room for the safe keeping of money and valuables?

  Are you allowed a lock on the door if you want one?

• The way you live

  Are residents encouraged to remain as independent as possible?

  Will you have access to all the specialist equipment you need?

  If you have a particular medical condition, can your needs be met?

  How many staff are on duty day and night and are they appropriately trained - what percentage of staff have the appropriate NVQ?

  Is the home classed as being in the elite 'BAND 1' by both Lancashire County Council and Blackpool Borough Council?

  Are there satisfactory arrangements for laundry and room cleaning?

  Are there regular visits from hairdressers, dentists, opticians, chiropodists, physiotherapists etc?

  Is there somewhere other than your room to go for some peace and quiet?

  Can you practice your religion? Will the home make arrangements on your behalf to facilitate this?

  Is there a variety of activities and outings and are these planned?

  Does the home provide entertainment from outside professional sources as well providing in-house entertainment?

  Does the home have plenty of books for you enjoyment?

  Are there regular events that your friends and relatives are invited to?

  Is the home part of the surrounding community?

  Are the staff friendly, caring and interested in the residents?

  Do residents seem active, alert, happy and well cared for?

  Does the home feel safe and secure?

  Are there regular residents meetings to enable you to have a voice and an input into the way you live?

• Your freedom to choose

  Can you choose when to get up, what time to go to bed and when to have a bath? In other words, would YOU be in charge of your life, rather than have someone making decisions for you based on their convenience?

  Is there a nutritious, wholesome menu with an alternative option for your enjoyment?

  Are the menus regularly rotated to ensure you have a good variation of food options?

  If you have special dietary requirements, will these be catered for?

  Does the home prepare food freshly on the premises or do they buy readily prepared meals? What about desserts?

  Are there facilities for you to have a snack or drink as and when you want?

  Is alcohol available if you would like it?

  Can meals be eaten in areas other than the dining room?

  Can you help in the garden if you wish to?

  Will visitors be welcomed at all times?

  Will you be able to go on outings with visitors?

  Can residents still see their own GP?

  Is there a clear complaints procedure?

  Are you able to arrange a trial visit?

  Does the home accommodate respite clients as well as permanent clients?

Take the time to look at each home in detail and check to see if it meets the standard you expect. By finding answers to as many of your questions as possible, you should be able to find a home that's right for you.

Please don't hesitate to contact us - we welcome your enquiries. Call on FREEPHONE 0800 046 1292