Choosing a care home for a loved one is a significant decision, and it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions along the way. There are many factors to think about — from the quality of care and the facilities on offer to the overall atmosphere and sense of community. At Devonshire Care, we understand how important this choice is and aim to make the journey as clear and supportive as possible, giving families peace of mind that their relative will be cared for with compassion.

To make things easier, we’ve gathered together a selection of helpful resources designed to guide you through the process. Here you’ll find practical advice on what to look for when visiting homes, as well as information about the financial support that may be available. With these tools, you’ll feel better equipped to choose a home that truly meets your loved one’s needs and your family’s expectations.

One particularly useful tool is the AgeUK care home checklist. This straightforward guide allows you to compare homes side by side, highlighting what matters most to you and your relative. It’s available to download online and can act as a handy 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