Residential Care

Residential care is for people who can not continue living in their own home, even with support from home care services. You can stay in residential care for a short time (known as respite care), over a longer period or permanently. You would stay in a comfortable furnished room (in some places you could bring your own furniture with you) and staff are usually available 24 hours a day.

A residential care home normally provides accommodation, meals, and ‘personal care’. Personal care can include such things as assistance in getting up or going to bed, eating, washing, dressing, and using the toilet.

There is a wide range of reasons for needing this type of support, for example, if a person has significant physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental ill health, an alcohol or drug dependency, or is at risk of injury or abuse.

It can help you to continue living safely, whilst giving your family or carer peace of mind knowing you are in a safe and supportive environment. Residential care and nursing homes should provide you with;

If you are having difficulty living in your own home, there are many services that we can offer to help you. If you are still unable to continue living at home and are thinking about living in a care home you will need to contact your local Adult Social Care office. A trained worker will talk to you about the support you may need. This is called an assessment.

Also see: Residential Care Homes | Choosing a Care Home | Funding your own Residential or Nursing Placement | Respite Care | Adult Placement Service | Direct Gov - Guide to Care Homes for Over 50's and the publications: Residential and Respite Care | Funding your permanent Residential and Nursing Care | Choosing the Right Service for You (CSCI)