Deciding on the right care home for a family member is a big step, and it often comes with a mix of emotions. With so many aspects to weigh up, from the level of care and the facilities available to the warmth of the setting and the sense of community, it’s understandable to feel uncertain. At Devonshire Care, we recognise how important this choice is and aim to make it as reassuring and straightforward as possible, so families can feel confident that their loved one will be well looked after.
To support you in this process, we’ve brought together a range of resources that can help guide your decisions. These tools are designed to give clear advice on what to consider when comparing homes, alongside practical information about potential funding options. With the right knowledge, you can feel more prepared to choose a home that suits both your loved one’s needs and your family’s circumstances.
A valuable resource is the AgeUK care home checklist. This easy-to-use guide helps you identify your priorities and compare different providers side by side, so you can see more clearly which homes offer what matters most to you. You can access and download the checklist online, using it as a step-by-step reference throughout your search.
PayingForCare.org
Payingforcare.org is an impartial and consumer friendly website providing information on all aspects of care funding including local authority assessments, care entitlements, costs of care and arranging care for someone else. Visitors have instant access to professional, specialist care fees advice through a live chat service.
Government Agencies
The Benefits Agency – The best place to find government services and information
The Department of Health – The Department of Health (DH) exists to improve the health and wellbeing of people in England.
The National Health Service – The official website of the NHS in England.
The Care Quality Commission –The Care Quality Commission is the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
The English Community Care Association –The English Community Care Association (ECCA) is the largest representative body for community care in England.
Patient UK – Comprehensive health information as provided by GPs and nurses to patients during consultations.
Charities
Age UK – offers services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. t: 0800 8086060
Counsel and Care – Advice and support for older age. t: 0845 3007585
Health Issues
Alzheimer’s Society – Alzheimer’s Society is a membership organisation, which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Multiple Sclerosis Society – The MS Society is the UK’s largest charity for people affected by multiple sclerosis.
The Motor neurone Disease Association – A definitive resource for people with MND and those who care for them.
The Parkinson’s Disease Society – No one should have to face Parkinson’s on their own. If you are affected by the condition, The Parkinson’s Disease Society are here to support you.
The Stroke Association – Working for a world where there are fewer strokes and all those touched by stroke get the help they need.
Independent Financial Advisors
SAGA Care Funding Advice – provides care funding advice for people who have to pay for their own care needs. t: 0800 0567996