Advice on choosing a care centre

You have the right to choose your own centre. If the local authority is paying for your care, you can still choose which home is suitable for you as long as:

• the care provided by the home is suitable for your care needs
• there is there is availability 
• the fees are not more than the local authority normally pays (unless a third party can make up the difference)
• the local authority can agree a contract with your chosen care provider

Once you understand whether you require residential, nursing or specialist dementia care, make a list of care centres to call or visit. To decide on the best home for you, it is always useful to research care centres in your local area. You may wish to ask friends and family for recommendations or speak to your local Social Services department who will have a list of care centres in your area.  Alternatively, follow the links below for a list of care centres that can be searched by postcode that also allow you to read inspection reports.

Useful sources of information:

• www.cqc.org.uk - Care Quality Commission: search by postcode or local authority for care centres offering the care you need.
• www.bettercaring.co.uk - online website directory of all care centres in the UK
• To find your local council visit: www.direct.gov.uk/en/Dl1/Directories/Localcouncils/index.htm