Choosing a care home for someone you love is a deeply personal journey, often filled with many emotions and important considerations. From the quality of care and comfort of the surroundings to the warmth of the atmosphere and the sense of belonging, every detail matters. At Charnley House, we understand how significant this decision is. As a long-established, family-run home, we’re here to make the process as simple and reassuring as possible, offering guidance, understanding, and genuine support every step of the way.
To help families feel informed and confident, we’ve brought together a collection of useful resources designed to guide you through each stage. These include practical advice on what to look for when visiting care homes, along with clear information about the financial help that may be available. With these insights, you can make decisions with clarity and peace of mind, knowing you’re choosing the right home for your loved one.
One particularly helpful resource is the Age UK Care Home Checklist; an easy-to-use guide that helps you compare homes and make notes on what matters most to you and your relative. It’s available to download online here and serves as a practical companion as you explore your options and discover the home that feels just right.
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