Options Peterborough - A guide to care and independent living Summer 2019

OPTIONS A guide to care and independent living

Peterborough Summer 2019

Leaving hospital What’s next?

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SOCIAL CARE

tips

NHS continuing healthcare Who’s eligible?

Healthcare services Choosing the right one

CONTRIBUTORS: Age UK Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Alzheimer’s Society North West Anglia NHS FT Rutland County Council The NHS

Peterborough & Stamford’s only CQC Outstanding rated Home Care Provider

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Contents The right place for your care.............................................................................................. 4-5 Help and advice while in hospital......................................................................................... 5 Leaving hospital.................................................................................................................. 5-6 Your experience as our patient at Peterborough City Hospital and Stamford Hospital... 7 Intermediate care................................................................................................................... 7 Hospital at home service........................................................................................................ 8 Community Matron service................................................................................................... 8 District nursing....................................................................................................................... 8 Reablement............................................................................................................................ 8 Keeping healthy................................................................................................................ 9-10 Mental health and wellbeing.............................................................................................. 10 Self-refer to Psychological Wellbeing service..................................................................... 10 When you need urgent help............................................................................................... 11 Healthy and Independent in Rutland................................................................................. 14 The Care Quality Commission Social Care Top Tips............................................................ 15 NHS continuing healthcare............................................................................................. 16-17 Personal budgets and direct payments.......................................................................... 18-19 NHS-funded nursing care..................................................................................................... 19 Paying for your own care (self-funding)........................................................................ 20-21 Help at home from a carer............................................................................................. 22-23 Alzheimer's Society – Unite against dementia in Peterborough................................. 24-25 Age UK Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Products and Services................................. 26-27 NHS hospitals and services in Peterborough...................................................................... 28 Useful contacts..................................................................................................................... 30

Welcome and

introduction

This guide is intended to help you, your carer and your relatives understand how your local health services can help you after discharge from hospital. Also information to help you to live independently or access support and care services in your area.

OCTAGON DESIGN & M ARKET I NG LTD

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The right place for

your care

This hospital, in partnership with other hospitals in the region, and your local authorities, recognise and support each patient to receive the right treatment, at the right place and by the right professional. An acute hospital Trust is a hospital that provides consultant-led health services within the National Health Service. Acute care is for patients who require emergency, medical or surgical services within a hospital environment. North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust provides care for patients who require this level of care. Hospitals are the right place to be when you are in need of specific medical or surgical treatment. However, when your treatment has been completed, it is important that your stay is not delayed for the following reasons:  S taying in hospital increases the risk of infection, muscle wasting and loss of independence.  Some people find it harder to return home the longer they stay in hospital due to loss of confidence and worry about being able to manage.  Beds are needed for people who are very unwell, and who may be waiting in the Emergency Department for a bed to become available.  People awaiting surgery, both urgent and non-urgent, may have their operations cancelled if a bed is unavailable. It is good practice to start planning for your discharge as soon as you come into hospital or even before you arrive. This means that we can begin to:  Assess what your needs are likely to be when you are ready to leave.

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 Make arrangements for equipment or services which need to be in place when you are medically ready to leave.  Make sure that your carer is given any information, help or advice that is needed to aid your recovery. All staff will work with you, and your carer or relatives, as a team, in order to discuss your discharge with you. We need to discuss any concerns you have at the earliest opportunity, e.g. your safety at home, managing your personal care or domestic arrangements, your ability to move around and any equipment you may need. You will be given a Predicted Date for Discharge based on when it is expected that your treatment will be completed. It is important that everyone involved is aware of this date so that we can all work towards it, and so that the necessary arrangements can be made.

These may include: Transport home. Patients will be expected to arrange their own transport when leaving hospital. See page 7 for more information. You will need:  S uitable clothing and footwear if you are not already using them in hospital.  Access to a key to your property.  Adequate basic food stocks.

 Involve relevant staff who can help in meeting those needs (e.g. social worker, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, district nurse)

 Adequate support for your carer or family members.

 Talk to your family regarding any needs you may have after discharge.

Your current medication will be returned to you and any additional medication will be ordered from the Hospital Pharmacy and

 Adequate heating in your home.

delivered to you before you leave the hospital. You will also have a discharge letter to take with you. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication please ask to speak to your pharmacist or a member of the nursing team. Relatives or carers coming to collect you can meet you on the ward or Discharge Lounge, or a nurse can escort you to the main reception area. Finally, we understand that any hospital stay can be stressful and we need to support you and your relatives/carer during your time here. For most patients, being discharged from hospital to their home is straightforward. Some may need information and advice, or may need the support of social care from the local council. Some people have ongoing health, care and support needs which require a more detailed assessment. Staff from health and social care will work together to plan and deliver services to support people after discharge. Sometimes it is necessary to move to an interim destination whilst awaiting a care package or care home of choice. It is not possible to stay in hospital until such arrangements are in place. The hospital discharge team will arrange your interim destination for you. This guide explains some of these processes and explains the role of the hospital and social care team in the hospital discharge process, as well as the help and support available to you following your discharge.

Help and advice while in hospital If you or your family have any questions, worries, or you do not understand what is happening at any stage during your hospital stay, please speak to your nurse, doctor or ward manager. They will be happy to discuss any aspects of your care to ensure that you are fully prepared to be discharged. After discharge, if you have any concerns about your condition please contact your GP surgery. If you have any concerns about your medication, you can speak to your local pharmacist in the first instance.

Leaving

hospital We aim to tell you a predicted discharge date and time within 24 hours of your admission to help you and your carers make arrangements to ensure the services you need are available. The date will be reviewed with you by the consultant on their ward round. Sometimes discharge dates need to change and when this happens we will give you as much notice as possible. If this happens, please share this information with your relatives and/or carers.

Where will I be discharged to? You will normally be discharged to your home address. However it may be necessary to transfer you to another facility to continue your care once you no longer need to stay in hospital. This place of care could be anywhere in your local authority area. This may be a temporary move whilst awaiting a different service or care home. We recognise that some people might lose confidence and become more dependent whilst in hospital, but we will work with you to maintain your independence. If additional support is needed after your hospital care, we may ask for your care to be transferred to a community setting. The doctors, nurses and therapists involved in your care will discuss the following with you:  Are you able to return to your own home?  Do you need a short period of rehabilitation/ intermediate care?  Do you need nursing or social care support at home?  Do you need to move into a care home rather than return home? >> 5

We will liaise with social care and community health team to confirm these details with you.

How you can help with your discharge from hospital You have the most important part to play, and you can help us in several ways. We ask that you:  Think carefully about going home again and tell the ward staff without delay if you think there may be problems.  Talk to your family or friends if you think you might need some support at home.  Ask for a member of the Discharge Planning Team to see you if you think you may need more support when you leave hospital with everyday tasks such as preparing food and shopping.  Ensure that you have day clothes, shoes and a coat ready so that you can leave hospital fully dressed and comfortable.  Arrange with family/friends or a carer to collect you from hospital at the agreed time. If you do not have anyone who can collect you and you are fit and able, the ward can arrange a taxi for you – please let staff know if that is the case. More information on transport is on the right.  In order to ensure that you are receiving the right care at the right time during your stay, we would recommend that you ask staff responsible for your care 'what needs to happen for me to go home' and 'when can I go home'.  While you are waiting for tablets or to be collected by family or hospital transport, you will be transferred from the ward to the Discharge Lounge.

What happens on the day of my discharge? Leaving the ward: Unless otherwise informed, we will aim to discharge you by 10am. We will ensure that you are ready so that your bed can be prepared for a new patient. We will liaise with you and your relatives/carers about your discharge time. Getting your medicines: Prescribed medication will be obtained for you to take home, if required. You may hear the ward nurses or doctors refer to these as ‘TTOs’. This stands for 'Tablets to Take Out'. Any remaining medicines that you brought in to hospital with you will be returned to you (unless they are no longer needed and will be destroyed with your permission). A registered nurse will explain any new medication to you, identify any possible side effects and discuss with you how to obtain further supplies. Written information on potential side effects is also contained within each tablet packet. Your discharge letter: A discharge letter explaining your care and treatment and a list of your medications will be given to you and a copy sent to your GP electronically, or by post. We may lend you hospital equipment for short-term use at home. Please return it to the hospital as soon as possible when you no longer need it so that we can use it for other patients. If you need a follow-up appointment we will make this before you leave, or, if appropriate, we will write to you. If an appointment has not arrived within three weeks, please contact the outpatient appointments call centre on 01733 673555. Transport: Wheelchairs are available for use within the hospital and can be collected from the reception area in the atrium by the front entrance. We ask that you make your own arrangements for transport home. We can arrange taxis with a reputable firm if necessary, but you will need to pay for this, so please ensure you have enough money to pay the driver directly. Hospital transport is only provided if you meet specific clinical criteria which will be assessed by staff. Where transport is provided, please be aware that relatives and carers are not normally able to travel with you as this incurs an extra charge to the hospital. Information about Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services, including the eligibility criteria, can be found on Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group’s website at http://www. cambridgeshireandpeterboroughccg. nhs.uk/your-health-and-services/ other-local-services/non-emergencypatient-transport/

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Your experience as our patient at Peterborough City Hospital and Stamford Hospital Tell us about your experience in our hospital. Your feedback is very important to us. You can tell us what you think in various ways:  Complete the patient feedback card that will be given to you on the ward. What you tell us about your hospital stay will be used to improve the experience our patients receive in the future. We would really appreciate you taking the time to fill out the ‘I Want Great Care’ questionnaire and handing it back to a member of ward staff before you go home.  Alternatively, you can provide online feedback via the I Want Great Care website. (www.iwantgreatcare.org)  If you have a concern or complaint that has not been addressed by the ward team, or if you want to pass

on praise or good comments about your treatment, please contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS). The PALS team is located at the desk at the bottom of the lifts in the main atrium at Peterborough City Hospital. They can be contacted by telephone on 01733 673405 (between 8.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday) or via email: nwangliaft.pals@nhs. net. Alternatively, you can write to them at: PALS, Department 003, Peterborough City Hospital, Edith Cavell Campus, Bretton Gate, Peterborough, PE3 9GZ.

Intermediate care If you are well enough to leave hospital, but need extra support before you can return home or once you are home, the Intermediate Care Team at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust can help. This is available to residents living in Cambridgeshire.

The Intermediate Care Service is for anyone over the age of 18 who is registered with a GP in the Peterborough area. Care can be provided in your own home or in one of the Intermediate Care Units, based at the City Care Centre, Thorpe Road, Peterborough, North Cambs Hospital, Wisbech or Princess of Wales Hospital, Ely. Intermediate Care is short-term support which aims to enable you to reach your maximum level of independence, through assessment and rehabilitation. The team is made up of nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, GPs, therapy support workers and health care assistants. The Intermediate Care Unit (City Care Centre) is a modern, purpose-built 34 bed unit equipped with a wide range of facilities, including a gym, and a roof garden. The unit is made up of single rooms, each with a shower and toilet. All meals are provided, with a large menu to choose from each day. You will be encouraged to wear day clothes. There is also access to a small shop and cafeteria for yourself and visitors.

Once admitted to the service you will be encouraged to develop goals and work with the team to achieve them. The team will be responsible for discussing how you will manage at the end of your stay and making any onward referrals, for example to social care for a longer term care package. Your care will be delivered at any of the available units depending on bed availability and may not be nearest to where you live.

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Hospital at home service The Hospital at Home service, aims to help people who live in Cambridgeshire leave hospital early and prevent further hospital admissions. Patients receive the service if they require rehabilitation, if they have become unwell or if they are reaching the end of their life and require support to remain at home at this time. The service is delivered by a team of specially trained healthcare assistants who help to deliver care plans formulated by GPs, district nurses,

physiotherapists and occupational therapists. The healthcare assistants can perform tasks such as washing, dressing and help with meals and toileting, but the Hospital at Home staff can also support physiotherapy and occupational therapy programmes. The Hospital and Home service is provided by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, but is supported by the charitable efforts of the Hospital at Home Friends Group.

Community Matron service If you have a number of long term conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis or heart disease, which put you at risk of needing further hospital care, you may be referred to the Community Matron Service operated by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust. Community Matrons work with you to help co-ordinate your care with everyone involved and help you to manage

your health. The matron can make a full assessment of your needs, help to co-ordinate the services you will receive and can work with your doctors to give you help and advice on how to manage your conditions. Your matron will develop a care plan, with your input, which will outline your needs, the services you require, the goals you are working towards and what to do if your conditions get worse.

District

Reablement

District nurses assess, plan and provide nursing clinical care in a patient’s own home if you are housebound. If, on discharge from hospital, you still require nursing care, for example for treatment following an operation, you may receive care from a district nurse.

This can include help with personal care, preparing meals and improving mobility.

nursing

Reablement is short-term support designed to help people over the age of 18 increase their independence at home which they may have lost as a consequence of poor health, disability, an accident or a stay in hospital.

An Occupational Therapist may visit soon after reablement starts to discuss how best he/she can support you. Together, you will agree goals to work towards with your support workers. At first, you may need a number of visits per day, but as you progress this may reduce. Your progress will be reviewed regularly. A reablement programme is a short-term service that can last anywhere from 6 hours to 6 weeks, depending upon your need. For further information, email: adultsocialcare@peterborough.gcsx.gov.uk or call 01733 747474.

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Keeping healthy Taking care of yourself

being overheard by other members of the public.

There are some simple steps you can take to look after yourself at home. This could range from managing a long-term condition, taking medication when needed or managing a cold to eating well and being active.

Your local GP

There are lots of minor conditions you can treat at home using just your medicine cupboard and plenty of rest. These include coughs, colds, headaches, sore throat, minor cuts and grazes, bumps and bruises, indigestion and mild diarrhoea. It’s a good idea to have a medicine cabinet where you can keep some basic medication. In doing so it might save you going out if you’re not feeling well, or if the weather is bad. The following medicines might be useful:  painkillers  anti-diarrhoeal tablets/oral rehydration salts  plasters and bandages  bite and sting relief spray or cream  antiseptic cream  indigestion treatment  a thermometer

GPs, or General Practitioners, deal with a whole range of health problems. They also offer advice and run clinics, give vaccinations and some carry out simple surgical operations. You would normally see a GP or other healthcare professionals at their surgery. If you have an illness or injury that won’t go away make an appointment with your GP or telephone for advice. They provide a range of services by appointment and, when absolutely essential, can make home visits. Some things GPs can help with are flu jabs, persistent ear pain, persistent back ache, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, allergic reactions, long-term conditions, counselling and emotional problems.

Preventing falls There are several measures you can take to help prevent a fall.

 cough medicine

Simple, everyday measures around the home include:

 antihistamine medicine

 mopping up spills to avoid wet floors

 suncream

 getting help lifting or moving items that are heavy or difficult to lift

Always follow the directions on medicine packets and information leaflets, never exceed the stated dose and make sure the medicine is not out of date.

Your local pharmacy Some of the things your pharmacy can help with includes aches, pains, stopping smoking, medicines advice, hay fever, coughs, colds, diarrhoea, allergies, skin conditions and flu jabs. You can talk to your pharmacist in confidence and you don’t need to make an appointment. It is possible to walk into any community pharmacy and ask to speak with the pharmacist. They may be able to spend some time with you or offer you an appointment for a consultation. All the discussions with your pharmacist can take place in person or by phone. Most pharmacies have a private consultation area where patients can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without

 removing clutter, trailing wires and frayed carpet  using non-slip mats and rugs  using high-wattage light bulbs in lamps and torches so that you can see clearly  organising your home so that climbing, stretching and bending are kept to a minimum and to avoid bumping into things  getting help to do things that you are unable to do safely on your own  not walking on slippery floors in socks or tights  not wearing loose-fitting, trailing clothes that might trip you up  wearing well-fitting shoes that are in good condition and support the ankle  taking care of your feet by trimming toenails regularly, using moisturiser and seeing a GP or chiropodist about >> any foot problems 9

What should you do if you have a fall? If you have a fall, it is important to keep calm. If you are not hurt and you feel strong enough to get up, get up slowly. Roll onto your hands and knees and look for a stable piece of furniture, such as a chair or bed. Hold on to the furniture with both hands to support yourself and when you feel ready, slowly get up. Sit down and rest for a while. If you are hurt or unable to get up, try to get someone’s attention by calling out for help, banging on the wall or floor or using your aid call button (if you have one). If possible, crawl to a telephone and dial 999 for an ambulance. Try to reach something warm to put over you, particularly your legs and feet, such as a blanket or a dressing gown. Stay as comfortable as possible and try to change your position at least once every half an hour or so.

Travel carefully in icy weather Icy pavements and roads can be very slippery. Take extra care if you go out and wear boots or shoes with good grip on the soles. Put grit or cat litter on your paths and driveway to lessen the risk of slipping. You should wait until the roads have been gritted if you’re travelling by car. Bear in mind that black ice on pavements or roads might not be clearly visible, and that compacted snow may turn to ice and become slippery.

Mental health

and wellbeing

Depression and anxiety can affect anyone. People with depression frequently also suffer from anxiety. Depression: If you are depressed it is likely that you will have a loss of interest or pleasure in normally enjoyable activities. Symptoms include:  too much or too little sleep  loss of energy  changes in appetite and weight  feeling sad, guilty or hopeless  feeling irritable or anxious Anxiety: Anxiety creates an unpleasant feeling that is typically described as uneasiness, fear, or worry. You may also get tiredness, headaches and sweating. Lifestyle changes are simple but an effective way to treat depression or anxiety. Sometimes they might be all you need. Even if you need other treatment as well, lifestyle changes go a long way toward helping lift depression. Lifestyle changes include: E xercise - It stimulates the body to produce hormones that prevent depression. Taking exercise can increase self-confidence and, if you join an exercise class, it can also improve your social life. D iet - Eating a well-balanced diet and reducing the amount of sugar and caffeine in your diet can help. A lcohol - Alcohol does not help with depression and can make it worse. People suffering from depression should stop drinking alcohol. S leep - It is very important to make sure that you are getting the amount of sleep you need because poor sleep has a strong effect on mood. Make sure you are relaxed before you go to bed, have a warm, milky drink and make sure that your bedroom is not too cold or too hot. S ocial support - Keeping in regular contact with friends and family can help or consider joining a class or group. If you are able, volunteering is a wonderful way to help others while also helping yourself.

Self-refer to Psychological Wellbeing service Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust provides a Psychological Wellbeing service that people can self-refer to. This service is set up to help those aged 17 and over who are suffering from mild to moderate depression and anxiety disorders including generalised anxiety, social anxiety, post traumatic stress, health anxiety, panic, phobia or obsessive compulsive disorder. Appointments are offered throughout the day, from Monday to Friday. Call 0300 300 0055. Lines are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays.

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When you need urgent Out of hours GP service Sometimes you might need to see a GP urgently in the evenings or at weekends. If your usual GP practice is closed then it’s still possible to see a GP or get advice from the GP over the phone. To contact an out of hours GP, just call 111 and you will be connected to the NHS 111 service, which can help you access the out of hours services across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. NHS 111 is the phone number to call when you need medical help or advice urgently, but it’s not a life-threatening situation. Calling 111 will connect you to a team of fully trained call advisers, who are supported by experienced nurses and paramedics. They will ask you questions to assess the symptoms, and give you healthcare advice or direct you to the most appropriate and available local service. You should use 111 if:

help

Peterborough Minor Illness and Injury Unit Also provides X-rays, wound stitching and applications of casts City Care Centre, Thorpe Road, Peterborough PE3 6DB. Tel: 01733 293 800. Opening hours: Monday-Sunday, 8am-8pm.

Stamford Hospital Minor Injuries Unit Ryhall Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1UA. Tel: 01733 678000 Opening hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.

North Cambridgeshire Hospital Minor Injuries Unit

 it’s not a 999 emergency

The Park, Wisbech, PE13 3AB. Tel: 01945 488 068. Opening hours: Monday-Friday, 8.30am-6pm; Closed Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays. MIU X-ray: Monday-Friday, 9am to 4.45pm.

 you think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service but you’re not sure

Doddington Community Hospital Minor Injuries Unit

 you don’t think you can wait for an appointment with your GP  you don’t know who to call for medical help When an ambulance is required, they will dispatch one immediately – just as if you had originally dialled 999.

Minor Injury Units If your injury or illness is not serious, you can get help from your local Minor Injury Unit rather than going to an A&E department. These offer convenient access to treatment for a range of minor illnesses and injuries. Conditions that can be treated at the Minor Injury Units include wounds, bites, minor burns and scalds, eye problems, earache, and minor head injuries (with no loss of consciousness).

Benwick Road, Doddington, PE15 0UG. Tel: 01354 644 243. Opening hours: Monday-Friday, 8.30am-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays, 9am-5pm; Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. MIU X-ray: Monday-Friday, 9am5.45pm, Saturday 1pm-5pm and Sunday 1pm - 4.45pm.

Emergency department (A&E) or calling 999 You should only go to the Emergency Department or call 999 when it’s a critical or life-threatening emergency. Dialling 999 and stating that it’s an emergency situation will result in an ambulance being sent out to you. Emergency situations include: stroke, overdose, choking, blacking out, open wound with blood loss, loss of consciousness, acute confused state, fits, severe allergic reactions, breathing difficulties and persistent, severe chest pain. If you think you or someone else is having a heart attack then dial 999 straight away. 11

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Athena Care Homes are a family run business with five homes across East Anglia. Our aim is to be the provider of choice for our residents and the employer of choice for all our team members. Our priority is to create outstanding environments with a home from home feel and provide great catering and housekeeping services and meaningful activities for our residents. We aim to enhance the lives of our residents and enable them to enjoy life to the full as individuals in happy, comfortable and safe surroundings.

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Healthy and Independent in Rutland

Rutland Adult Social Care services are working closer with the NHS and other partners to ensure that Rutland residents enjoy the best health and wellbeing throughout their life. The aim is for you to be able to access the right support and information to help reduce, prevent or delay the need for care. Help to return home All Rutland residents admitted to hospital will be offered support to return home. The Rutland Integrated Hospital Team will contact you in hospital to understand your needs. Alternatively, you can contact the Team by calling 01572 758 341. The Team will look at practical aspects with you including your safety at home, your ability to move around and how you will manage your personal care and domestic arrangements. Our aim is to get you back into your usual routines as soon as possible. If you cannot return directly home, for example because you are not mobile, you may continue your recovery in a community hospital or care home bed in or near Rutland. You might also be offered a short period of physical therapy to give you the skills and confidence to thrive at home. ‘Rehabilitation’ is exercise rebuilding your strength and movement, while ‘reablement’ helps you to learn new ways to accomplish daily tasks that have become more challenging. The professionals working with you will explain what to expect from your personalised therapy programme and will agree the aims with you. Other services • If you would like a broader chat about support to help you to manage at home longer term, you can contact Rutland’s Adult Social Care team who may 14

signpost, offer advice or recommend a social care assessment. To contact them call 01572 758341, or email adultduty@rutland.gov.uk. •A few carefully chosen additions or changes around your home might be all that is needed to help you to continue living there comfortably and independently. If so, you can request a free ‘Housing MOT’ from Spire Homes to look at falls prevention, fire safety, energy efficiency and maintenance (Tel: 01933 415387, Email: housingmot@longhurst-group.org.uk). •R utland residents who are living with dementia or caring for someone with this condition can also contact the Council’s new Admiral Nurse service for support and advice (Tel: 01572 758341, or email adultduty@rutland.gov.uk). •Y ou can also contact the Rutland Community Wellbeing Service who will be able to help you to find solutions that work for you, if for example you are living with a limiting health condition, facing financial issues, or even just want to get out and about more. Contact them on 01572 725 805 or go to www.rutlandwellbeing.org.uk •Y ou can also find a wide range of support services, activities, events, groups and organisations on the Rutland Information Service (RIS) website: ris.rutland.gov.uk.

The Care Quality Commission is here to make sure health and adult social care services including hospitals, home and residential care as well as GPs in England provide people with safe, effective, high-quality care. We publish independent inspection reports and ratings about services – information you can use when you’re choosing care for yourself, or a loved one. You can use our website to search for services you might be interested in by geographical area, or by specialism. For example, a care home that might offer specialist care for someone who has dementia. We also welcome your feedback on the care you have received – good or bad. We use this information to help inform our inspections and can alert authorities including local social services, if there are safeguarding concerns about care being provided. You can visit our website at www.cqc.org.uk to find our inspection reports, or share an experience of care. You can also call us to share an experience of care on 03000 61 61 61. Here are some tips to help you choose your care.

Social care Top tips 1

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The Care Quality Commission (CQC) registers all care homes and home care agencies. You can find out which ones support specific groups of people, such as people with a learning disability or those living with dementia. CQC’s Chief Inspector for Adult Social Care, Andrea Sutcliffe always uses ‘The Mum Test’: is a care home safe, caring, effective, responsive to people’s needs and well-led? In other words, is it good enough for my Mum (or anyone else I love and care for)? Look for care homes and home care agencies where the staff involve people who use services and their families and carers, and treat individuals with compassion, kindness, dignity and respect.

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Whether you are being cared for in your own home or in a residential setting, the staff looking after you need to be skilled, kind and supportive. They should also be capable and confident in dealing with your particular needs. You should always feel that their support is helping you to live the life you want to. A care home will be a home for you or your loved one. Residents should be treated as individuals with their likes and dislikes taken into account. Think about whether a home is close enough to family, friends, and community facilities. Look at how well-led and managed a home is. What does it have in place to ensure that it delivers high quality care? Does it promote meaningful activity and connect the home with the community?

If you or a loved one needs help with day-today care, you can contact your local council’s social services department. They will ‘make an assessment of your needs’ and depending on circumstances, may be able to help you access financial help. For more advice visit Age UK’s website www.ageuk.org.uk/home-and-care.

If you would like to organise your care yourself, you can find a care worker or personal assistant through an agency. Your local social services department should be able to provide details of approved agencies.

CQC’s ratings will identify services as:

Outstanding Good ● Requires improvement ● Inadequate ● This will help you make informed choices around your care.

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Safeguarding adults who receive social care is everybody’s business. If you are concerned about the safety of a loved one receiving care, contact the service provider in the first instance. You can also contact social services at your local council. If you feel a crime has been committed, contact the police. You can share your safeguarding concerns with us on our website or contact our National Customer Services on 03000 616161.

The Care Quality Commission has not vetted the advertisers in this publication and accepts no liability for work done or goods supplied by any advertiser. Nor does the Care Quality Commission endorse any of the products or services.

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NHS continuing healthcare Some people with long-term complex health needs qualify for free social care arranged and funded solely by the NHS. This is known as NHS continuing healthcare.

Where can NHS continuing healthcare be provided? NHS continuing healthcare can be provided in a variety of settings outside hospital, such as in your own home or in a care home.

Am I eligible for NHS continuing healthcare? NHS continuing healthcare is for adults. Children and young people may receive a “continuing care package” if they have needs arising from disability, accident or illness that can’t be met by existing universal or specialist services alone. To be eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, you must be assessed by a team of healthcare professionals (a multidisciplinary team). The team will look at all your care needs and relate them to: • what help you need • how complex your needs are • how intense your needs can be • how unpredictable they are, including any risks to your health if the right care isn’t provided at the right time Your eligibility for NHS continuing healthcare depends on your assessed needs, and not on any particular diagnosis or condition. If your needs change then your eligibility for NHS continuing healthcare may change. You should be fully involved in the assessment process and kept informed, and have your views about your needs and support taken into account. Carers and family members should also be consulted where appropriate. A decision about eligibility for a full assessment for NHS continuing healthcare should usually be made within 28 days of an initial assessment or request for a full assessment. If you aren’t eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, you can be referred to your local council who can discuss with you whether you may be eligible for support from them. If you still have some health needs then the NHS may pay for part of the package of support. This is sometimes known as a “joint package” of care.

Information and advice The process involved in NHS continuing healthcare assessments can be complex. An organisation called Beacon gives free independent advice on NHS continuing healthcare. Visit the Beacon website or call the free helpline on 0345 548 0300.

NHS continuing healthcare assessments Clinical commissioning groups, known as CCGs (the NHS organisations that commission local health services), must assess you for NHS continuing healthcare if it seems that you may need it. For most people, there’s an initial checklist assessment, which is used to decide if you need a full assessment. However, if you need care urgently – for example, if you’re terminally ill – your assessment may be fast-tracked. 16

Initial assessment for NHS continuing healthcare The initial checklist assessment can be completed by a nurse, doctor, other healthcare professional or social worker. You should be told that you’re being assessed, and be asked for your consent. Depending on the outcome of the checklist, you’ll either be told that you don’t meet the criteria for a full assessment of NHS continuing healthcare and are therefore not eligible, or you’ll be referred for a full assessment of eligibility. Being referred for a full assessment doesn’t necessarily mean

Full assessment for NHS continuing healthcare Full assessments for NHS continuing healthcare are undertaken by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) made up of a minimum of 2 professionals from different healthcare professions. The MDT should usually include both health and social care professionals who are already involved in your care. You should be informed who is co-ordinating the NHS continuing healthcare assessment. The team’s assessment will consider your needs under the following headings: • breathing • nutrition (food and drink) • continence • skin (including wounds and ulcers) • mobility • communication • psychological and emotional needs • cognition (understanding) • behaviour • drug therapies and medication • altered states of consciousness • other significant care needs These needs are given a weighting marked “priority”, “severe”, “high”, “moderate”, “low” or “no needs”. If you have at least one priority need, or severe needs in at least 2 areas, you can usually expect to be eligible for NHS continuing healthcare. You may also be eligible if you have a severe need in one area plus a number of other needs, or a number of high or moderate needs, depending on their nature, intensity, complexity or unpredictability. In all cases, the overall need, and interactions between needs, will be taken into account, together with evidence from risk assessments, in deciding whether NHS continuing healthcare should be provided. The assessment should take into account your views and the views of any carers you have. You should be given a copy of the decision documents, along with clear reasons for the decision. You can download a blank copy of the NHS continuing healthcare decision support tool.

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you’ll be eligible for NHS continuing healthcare. The purpose of the checklist is to enable anyone who might be eligible to have the opportunity for a full assessment. The professional(s) completing the checklist should record in writing the reasons for their decision, and sign and date it. You should be given a copy of the completed checklist. You can download a blank copy of the NHS continuing healthcare checklist from GOV.UK.

Fast-track assessment for NHS continuing healthcare If your health is deteriorating quickly and you’re nearing the end of your life, you should be considered for the NHS continuing healthcare fast-track pathway, so that an appropriate care and support package can be put in place as soon as possible – usually within 48 hours.

Care and support planning If you’re eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, the next stage is to arrange a care and support package that meets your assessed needs. Depending on your situation, different options could be suitable, including support in your own home and the option of a personal health budget. If it’s agreed that a care home is the best option for you, there could be more than one local care home that’s suitable. Your CCG should work collaboratively with you and consider your views when agreeing your care and support package and the setting where it will be provided. However, they can also take other factors into account, such as the cost and value for money of different options.

NHS continuing healthcare reviews If you’re eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, your needs and support package will normally be reviewed within 3 months and thereafter at least annually. This review will consider whether your existing care and support package meets your assessed needs. If your needs have changed, the review will also consider whether you’re still eligible for NHS continuing healthcare.

Q.

I have a local authority support package that works well. I’m now eligible for NHS continuing healthcare – will my support package change? If you’re concerned about changes to your care package because of a move to NHS continuing healthcare, your CCG should talk to you about ways that it can give you as much choice and control as possible. This could include the use of a personal health budget, with one option being a “direct payment for healthcare”.

Q.

Can I refuse an assessment for NHS continuing healthcare? If I refuse, will I be able to get services from my local authority? An assessment for NHS continuing healthcare can’t be carried out without your consent, so it’s possible to refuse. However, if you refuse, although you’ll still be entitled to an assessment by the local authority there’s no guarantee that you’ll be provided with services. There’s a legal limit on the types of services that a local authority can provide. If you refuse to be assessed for NHS continuing healthcare, the CCG should explore your reasons for refusing, and try to address your concerns. If someone lacks the mental capacity to consent to or refuse an assessment, the principles of the Mental Capacity Act will apply and in most circumstances an assessment will be provided in the person’s best interest.

Q.

Refunds for delays in NHS continuing healthcare funding

My relative is in a care home and has become eligible for NHS continuing healthcare. The CCG says the fees charged by this care home are more than they would usually pay, and has proposed a move to a different care home. I think a move will have a negative effect on my relative. What can we do?

CCGs will normally make a decision about eligibility for NHS continuing healthcare within 28 days of getting a completed checklist or request for a full assessment, unless there are circumstances beyond its control.

If there’s evidence that a move is likely to have a detrimental effect on your relative’s health or wellbeing, discuss this with the CCG. It will take your concerns into account when considering the most appropriate arrangements.

If the CCG decides you’re eligible, but takes longer than 28 days to decide this and the delay is unjustifiable, they should refund any care costs from the 29th day until the date of their decision.

If you’re not eligible for NHS continuing healthcare If you’re not eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, but you’re assessed as requiring nursing care in a care home (in other words, a care home that’s registered to provide nursing care) you’ll be eligible for NHS-funded nursing care. This means that the NHS will pay a contribution towards the cost of your registered nursing care. NHS-funded nursing care is available irrespective of who is funding the rest of the care home fees.

If the CCG decides to arrange an alternative placement, they should provide a reasonable choice of homes.

Q.

Is it possible to pay top-up fees for NHS continuing healthcare?

No, it isn’t possible to top up NHS continuing healthcare packages, like you can with local authority care packages. The only way that NHS continuing healthcare packages can be topped up privately is if you pay for additional private services on top of the services you’re assessed as needing from the NHS. These private services should be provided by different staff and preferably in a different setting. 17

Personal budgets and direct payments You’ll be given a personal budget to spend if your local council decide you’re eligible for help with any social care and support you need. You can request an assessment from the council to establish your needs. The money in your personal budget can be paid to you, to help you make more decisions about how it’s spent. This is known as a direct payment.

What is a personal budget? Your personal budget is the amount of money your local council will pay towards any social care and support you need. The amount of money in your personal budget is decided by your local council after a needs assessment to work out: • what kind of care and support you need • how much it will cost • how much you’re able to afford yourself Carers and personal budgets If you’re a carer, you may be entitled to receive a personal budget after having a carer’s assessment to see what might help make your life easier. A carer’s assessment is free and anyone over 18 can ask for one.

Choosing how to receive your personal budget You can ask the council to either: • manage your personal budget for you • pay the money to another organisation – such as a care provider • pay the money directly to you or someone you choose – this is known as a direct payment You can also choose a combination of these options. For example, the council could arrange some of your care but send you the rest of the money. This is often called a mixed package or “mix and match”. If the council manages your money The money in your personal budget will be spent for you by the council. They will arrange all your care and support based on your agreed care plan. They still need to check you’re happy with the care they’re arranging for you. If your money is paid to another organisation The organisation you choose, such as your care provider, will speak to the council and arrange the payments. Sometimes other organisations charge you extra money to arrange payments from the council.

The benefits of direct payments Direct payments give you more flexibility over how your care and support is arranged and provided. For example, you could choose to hire care workers or personal assistants who: • are always the same people and available when you need them • speak the same language as you • have experience working with your care needs • are a specific person that has been recommended to you • can help you get to shops or social events There are many ways you could choose to use the money. It’s your choice as long as you’re spending your personal budget on things that meet your agreed care plan. Most councils will ask for evidence of how you’ve spent your 18

money every 3 months. When to consider other options You may decide direct payments are not helpful if: • you’re worried about managing money or the people you employ • you spend a lot of time in hospital • you would rather the council arranged your care If you’re not confident about keeping records or managing the people who care for you, your local council should be able to provide support. You could also consider having someone else manage your direct payments, for example a friend or family member. You’ll need to set up a trust for payments that are managed by someone else. The Money Advice Service has information about setting up a trust.

How to apply for direct payments You should be offered direct payments as an option after your needs assessment. You can also ask your local council’s social services department about direct payments.

How direct payments work If you choose direct payments, the council will send you the money in your personal budget by either: • paying it directly into a bank, Post Office, building society or National Savings and Investments account • sending you a pre-paid card You can then choose how you spend the money on your own care and support, as long as it matches the care plan you’ve agreed with the council. Signing a direct payment agreement The council might ask you to sign a document called a direct payment agreement. This says: • how the council want you to record your spending – for example, keeping receipts • your responsibilities as an employer - if you’re paying for a care worker If you spend direct payments on something that isn’t agreed in your care plan, the council could take the money back or end the direct payments. If you’re struggling to manage your money Ask your local council for advice or call the Money Advice Service on 0800 138 7777. If you want someone else to receive the direct payment You could speak to the council and agree for the money to be sent to someone who will spend it for you. For example: • a carer • a friend or family member • someone else who speaks up for you (an advocate) You may need to write down how they will spend the money and which decisions they can make for you. This is known as a decision-making agreement.

Employing your own carer or personal assistant If you decide to hire a carer or personal assistant yourself, it’s important to know the responsibilities you’ll have as an employer. Although support from the council should be available, you may need to arrange:

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• background checks or references • tax • National Insurance • pension contributions Read more about employing someone to work in your home on GOV.UK. Disability Rights UK also have more information on getting a personal assistant. If you don’t want to become an employer You could choose to hire care workers through an agency instead. This removes the legal obligations of being an employer, but could: • cost you more money • remove some of the benefits - such as having the same person provide your care

How to research a care agency When choosing an agency, decide what sort of service you’re looking for and the tasks you need help with. It’s a good idea to contact more than one agency, as they may offer different types of services. You can find out about local home care agencies by: • speaking to your local council’s social services department • contacting the UK Homecare Association There are also organisations that inspect care agencies to see how well they are doing. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates all health and adult social care in England. You might see a CQC inspection rating when you search online for care home agencies. Their 4 ratings are: • Outstanding • Good • Requires improvement • Inadequate You could also search for care home agencies on the CQC website to see their full reports.

Telephone helplines If you would like support to help you manage your personal budget or direct payments, speak to your council or call: • the Disability Rights UK personal budgets helpline on 0330 995 0404 • the Age UK advice line on 0800 055 6112 (for older people)

How to complain about personal budgets It’s worth speaking to your council’s social services before making an official complaint to see if they can help. You still have the right to complain if you: • have been told you’re not eligible to receive money towards your care and support • don’t agree with the amount of money in your personal budget You could either: • speak to your social worker about being re-assessed • call your local council social services and request a complaints form Your council should also have a formal complaints procedure on its website. If you’re not happy with the council’s response Contact your Local Government Ombudsman. They investigate all

adult social care complaints.

More information about personal budgets and direct payments • Age UK have a detailed fact sheet on personal budgets and direct payments in social care • The Money Advice Service has a guide to direct payments.

NHS-funded nursing care NHS-funded nursing care is when the NHS pays for the nursing care component of nursing home fees. The NHS pays a flat rate directly to the care home towards the cost of this nursing care.

Who is eligible for NHS-funded nursing care? You may be eligible for NHS-funded nursing care if: • you’re not eligible for NHS continuing healthcare but have been assessed as needing care from a registered nurse • you live in a nursing home

How will my needs be assessed? You should be assessed for NHS continuing healthcare before a decision is made about whether you are eligible for NHS-funded nursing care. Most people don’t need a separate assessment for NHS-funded nursing care. However, if you do need an assessment or you haven’t already had one, your clinical commissioning group (CCG) can arrange an assessment for you.

Outcome of the assessment If you’re eligible for NHS-funded nursing care, the NHS will arrange and fund nursing care provided by registered nurses employed by the care home. Services provided by a registered nurse can include planning, supervising and monitoring nursing and healthcare tasks, as well as direct nursing care. If you’re not eligible for NHS-funded nursing care and you don’t agree with the decision about your eligibility, ask your CCG to review the decision.

The cost of NHS-funded nursing care NHS-funded nursing care is paid at the same rate across England. In April 2018, the rate was set at £158.16 a week (standard rate). Before October 1 2007, there were 3 different levels or bands of payment for NHS-funded nursing care – low, medium and high. If you moved into a care home before October 1 2007, and you were on the low or medium bands, you would have been transferred to the standard rate from that date. If you moved into a care home before October 1 2007, and you were on the high band, NHS-funded nursing care is paid at a higher rate. In April 2018, the higher rate was set at £217.59 a week. You’re entitled to continue on this rate unless: • you no longer have nursing needs • you no longer live in a care home that provides nursing • your nursing needs have reduced and you’re no longer eligible for the high band, when you would change to the standard rate of £158.16 a week, or • you become entitled to NHS continuing healthcare instead. 19

Paying for your own care (self-funding) You will not be entitled to help with the cost of care from your local council if: • you have savings worth more than £23,250 • you own your own property (this only applies if you’re moving into a care home)

You may be eligible for benefits, like Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which aren’t means-tested. You can use them to pay towards the cost of your care.

You can ask your council for a financial assessment (means test) to check if you qualify for any help with costs.

Can I avoid selling my home?

You can choose to pay for care yourself if you don’t want a financial assessment.

You won’t have to sell your home to pay for help in your own home.

How to arrange your care as a self-funder

But you may have to sell your home to pay for a care home, unless your partner carries on living in it.

You can: • arrange and pay for care yourself without involving the council • ask the council to arrange and pay for your care (the council will then bill you, but not all councils offer this service and they may charge a fee)

Sometimes selling your home to pay care home fees is the best option. But there may be other ways to pay care home fees if you don’t want to sell your home straight away.

Find out what care you need

Releasing money from your home (equity release)

Even if you choose to pay for your care, your council can do an assessment to check what care you might need. This is called a needs assessment.

Equity release lets you take money that’s tied up in your home without selling it. It’s available if you’re over 55.

For example, it’ll tell you whether you need home help from a paid carer for 2 hours a day or 2 hours a week and precisely what they should help you with.

But you have to pay interest on the money you take out, which can be expensive.

The needs assessment is free and anyone can ask for one.

How much will care cost? Social care can be expensive. Knowing how much you’ll have to pay will help you budget. Paying for carers at home A typical hourly rate for a carer to come to your home is around £20, but this will vary depending on where you live. Having a carer who lives with you costs from around £650 a week. But it can cost as much as £1,600 a week if you need a lot of care. Paying for a care home There are 2 types of care home: • residential homes have staff that help with everyday tasks such as getting dressed and supply all your meals • nursing homes also offer 24-hour nursing care A room in a care home costs: • £600 a week in a residential home • £840 a week in a nursing home The price will vary according to where you live and the type of care you need. For example, serious health problems like dementia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can increase the cost. 20

Benefits can help with care costs

The Money Advice Service has more information on equity release.

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Renting out your home

Telephone help

You can rent out your home and use the income to help pay your care home fees.

Get advice on paying for care from: • Age UK on freephone 0800 169 6565 • Independent Age on freephone 0800 319 6789 • the Money Advice Service on freephone 0800 138 7777

A deferred payment scheme A deferred payment scheme can be useful if you have savings less than £23,250 and all your money is tied up in your property. The council pays for your care home and you repay it later when you choose to sell your home, or after your death. Ask your council if you’re eligible for a deferred payment scheme. You can get more information from: • the Money Advice Service: deferred payment schemes • Independent Age: guide to care home fees and your property

If your savings run out If your savings fall below £23,250, your council might be able to help with the cost of care. Contact your local council about 3 months before you think your savings will drop to below £23,250 and ask them to reassess your finances. Councils provide funding from the date you contact them. You won’t be reimbursed if your savings are less than £23,250 before you contact them.

Get expert financial help

What you can get for free

You can get unbiased expert advice from a specialist care fees adviser.

You might be able to get some free help regardless of your income or if you’re paying for your care. This can include: • small bits of equipment or home adaptations that each cost less than £1,000 • NHS care, such as NHS continuing healthcare, NHSfunded nursing care and care after you have been discharged from hospital.

They’ll help you compare all your options before you decide what’s right for you. Find a specialist care fees adviser in your area with: • PayingForCare, a free information service for older people • the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) on 0333 2020 454

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Help at home from a carer Having a carer come to visit you in your home can make a huge difference to your life, especially if you have difficulty walking or getting around. It can help you stay living independently in your own home. This type of care is known as homecare or domiciliary care or sometimes home help. Help at home from a paid carer costs around £20 an hour, but it varies according to where you live. Sometimes, the council will contribute to the cost. Homecare is very flexible. You might need a carer for only an hour a week or for several hours a day. You might need a livein carer. It can be temporary – for example for a few weeks while you recover from an illness. Or it can be long term. You might also consider home adaptations or household gadgets or equipment to make life easier.

When should I consider help at home from a paid carer? You might want to consider care at home if: • you’re finding it difficult to cope with daily routines, such as washing, dressing and getting out and about • you don’t want to move into a care home • you can still get about your home and it’s safe for you to live in – or it can be adapted to make it safe

How can homecare help me? A carer can visit you at home to help you with all kinds of things including: • getting out of bed in the morning • washing and dressing • brushing your hair • using the toilet • preparing meals and drinks • remembering to take your medicines • doing your shopping • collecting prescriptions or your pension • getting out, for example to a lunch club • getting settled in the evening and ready for bed

Home help This is slightly different to homecare and means day-to-day domestic tasks that you may need a helping hand with such as: • cleaning (including putting on clean bed sheets) • doing the washing up • doing the laundry • gardening You might want some home help instead of or as well as homecare. Most councils don’t provide home help. Contact a charity such as the Royal Voluntary Service, the British Red Cross or your local Age UK to see whether they can help (they may not be free). 22

How to get help at home from a paid carer Your local council can arrange homecare for you if you’re eligible for it. You can arrange your own homecare.

How your council can help If you want the council to help with homecare for you, start by asking them for a needs assessment. Your needs assessment will help the council to decide whether you’re eligible for care. If you’re eligible, the council may recommend help at home from a paid carer. They will arrange the homecare for you. If you’re not eligible for care, the council must still give you free advice about where you can get help in your community. Even if you’re intending to make arrangements yourself with an agency or private carer, it’s still a good idea to have a needs assessment as it will help you to explain to the agency or carer what kind of help you need.

Paying for homecare Depending on your circumstances, your local council may contribute to the cost of homecare or you may have to pay for it yourself. If your needs assessment recommends home care, you may get help with the cost from the council. What you will contribute depends on your income and savings. The council will work this out in a financial assessment. If the council is paying for some or all of your homecare, they must give you a care and support plan. This sets out what your needs are, how they will be met and your personal budget (the amount the council thinks your care should cost). You can choose to receive your personal budget as a direct payment each month. This gives you the control to employ someone you know to care for you at home rather than using a homecare agency, though you’ll then have responsibilities as an employer. If you aren’t eligible for the council to contribute to your homecare costs, you will have to pay for it yourself.

Benefits that can help you with homecare Check if you’re eligible for benefits. Some, such as Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payments, aren’t means tested and they can help you meet the costs of homecare. Find out how to apply for: • benefits for under-65s • benefits for over-65s

How to choose a paid carer If you’re arranging your own homecare, there are 2 main ways to do this: • use a homecare agency • employ your own carer

The NHS have not vetted the advertisers in this publication and accepts no liability for work done or goods supplied by any advertiser. Nor does the NHS endorse any of the products or services. All information and figures correct at the time of going to print.

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Homecare agencies

What to expect from agency carers

Homecare agencies employ trained carers and arrange for them to visit you in your home. You may not always have the same carer visiting your home, though the agency will try to match you with someone suitable.

Homecare agency carers should treat you in a respectful and dignified way. For example, they should always:

How much do they cost? It costs around £20 an hour for a carer to come to your home, but this will vary depending on where you live. If you’re paying for yourself, the agency should be able to give you a clear price list. They’ll send you a monthly bill for your homecare. How to find a local agency There are 4 main ways to do this: • search the NHS website for local homecare services and agencies and a list of national homecare organisations and then contact the ones that interest you • ask your council’s social services department for information on the homecare agencies in your area. They may have a directory of homecare agencies on their website • contact the Care Quality Commission (CQC). All homecare agencies must register with the CQC. It can give you the latest inspection report on an agency • ask the United Kingdom Homecare Association (UKHCA) for a list of approved homecare agencies in your area

• knock and ring the front door bell and announce their arrival before coming into your home • bring an identity card • know where your keys are kept if they’re not in your home • keep any entry codes to your house confidential • know what to do if they can’t get into your home • know what to do if you’ve had an accident Employing your own carer Instead of using an agency, you can hire your own carer, sometimes called a private carer or personal assistant. If you employ a carer, you have the legal responsibility of an employer. This includes arranging cover for their illness and holidays. Which? Later Life Care has advice on employing a private carer.

How to complain about homecare You have the right to complain if you’re not happy about the help at home you’re receiving. This might be because carers: • arrive late and leave early • don’t give your medicines to you properly • leave your home untidy after visits • give you poor care like dressing you wrongly First complain to your local council or, if you’re paying for yourself, the agency. The council or agency should have a formal complaints procedure on their website. Try to be specific about what happened and include staff names and dates if you can.

Questions to ask the agency Here are some questions you may want to ask an agency before employing them: • what charges, if any, will I be expected to pay? • what services are charged as extras? • have your carers looked after someone with similar needs to mine? • how will you choose the most suitable carer for me? • will the carer agree to visit in a specific time slot? And will they tell me if they’re delayed or running late? • what sort of training do your carers get? • if I’m paying for my own care, do you have a standard contract I can read before signing my own? • if the council is contributing to my care can I see a copy of the contract they’ve signed with the agency? • how can I contact your agency during the day, in an emergency or outside office hours?

If you’re not happy with the way the council or agency handles your complaint, ask the Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman to investigate further. An ombudsman is an independent person who’s been appointed to look into complaints about organisations. You can also tell the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which checks social care services in England. Your local council must provide you with an independent advocate (someone to speak up for you) to help you make a complaint if you need one.

Further help • the charity, Independent Age, has good advice on homecare • the CQC has a good booklet on what to expect from a good homecare agency • read how to organise homecare from Which? Later Life Care • Age UK has information on all aspects of homecare • if you need help with one-off jobs like changing a light bulb or moving furniture, the charity GoodGym has volunteers who will come round to help. 23

Unite against dementia in Peterborough Alzheimer’s Society in Peterborough wants everyone affected by dementia to know that whoever you are, whatever you are going through, you can turn to Alzheimer’s Society for support, help and advice. There are more than 1,900 people living with the condition in the city, yet too many are facing dementia alone without adequate support. That’s why staff at the Dementia Resource Centre in Peterborough are sharing the number of ways people can access local support networks and speak to professionals. If you need:

Inclusion is the theme of this year’s Dementia Action Week, 20 – 26 May. Many people will know someone or are directly affected by dementia. Alzheimer’s Society is calling for people to take action so people affected can stay connected to the things they love for longer. Communities and businesses working to become dementia friendly in Peterborough are planning events and Alzheimer’s Society will have a variety of activities during the week. To find your nearest one or to access materials to get involved, visit alzheimers.org.uk/DAW

Someone to talk to You can phone at any time during the opening hours – 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday – to talk in confidence with a member of staff from the Dementia Support Service. Alternatively come and attend one of the drop-in peer support groups at the Dementia Resource Centre: ■ Every Tuesday, 10.30am to 12 noon, for carers ■ Every Friday, 2pm to 3.30pm, for people with dementia. Staff are available to listen when you just feel the need to talk, or to offer information and guidance on specific issues.

inform and support the caring role. Carers do not necessarily have to live with the person with dementia.

Dementia Advisers and Dementia Support Workers

There are various opportunities available to give people affected by dementia the chance to take part in structured activities. These give people the availability to meet others in an informal relaxed setting. You can call the Dementia Resource Centre to find out what activities are available and would best suit you.

Dementia Advisers offer information about all aspects of living with dementia and supports people to access services. Dementia Support Workers give personalised information and support to people with dementia and their carers to help better understand the condition, cope with day-to-day challenges and prepare for the future. Home visits can be arranged through here if needed.

The Carer Information and Support Programme (CrISP) The Carer Information Support Programme is a series of workshops available in Peterborough for carers and family members of people with dementia. This programme aims to offer structured information to 24

Activity Groups

Become a Dementia Friend Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friends Initiative allows people to learn a little bit more about what it's like to live with dementia and then turn that understanding into action. Alzheimer’s Society is powering the growing dementia movement for change and has already seen over 2.8 million people become Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends across the UK. To find your nearest Dementia Friend Information Session, visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk.

Get in touch If you are affected by dementia and would like information and support visit us:

Taking on dementia together

The Dementia Resource Centre, 441 Lincoln Road, Millfield, Peterborough PE1 2PE Call or email: Phone: 01733 893853 Email: peterborough@ alzheimers.org.uk Open 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday

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NHS hospitals

and services in Peterborough

Peterborough City Hospital

Stamford

Orthopaedics & Spine Specialist Hospital 1 Stirling Way, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE3 8YA 01733 333156

Fitzwilliam Hospital Milton Way, Bretton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE3 9AQ 01733 261717

Edith Cavell Campus, Bretton Gate, Peterborough, PE3 9GZ 01733 678000

Market Deeping

CROWLAND

Dementia Resource Centre (entrance on York Road), 441 Lincoln Road, Millfield, Peterborough PE1 2PE 01733 893853

PETERBOROUGH

Whittlesey

The Lindens, 86 Lincoln Road, Peterborough, PE1 2SN 0300 666 9860

Stamford & Rutland Hospital Ryhall Road, Stamford, Lincs PE9 1UA 01780 764151

Rutland Integrated Hospital Team – supports the discharge of Rutland patients, including those hospitalised in the area. They can be contacted on: 01572 722 577 (see p14). The locations on the map indicate where services operate out of.

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Healthwatch Rutland, Land’s End Way, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6RB Telephone: 01572 720381 Email: info@healthwatchrutland.co.uk

Everyone is involved At Clayburn Court care home, we embrace wellness. We support each of our residents as individuals, with their own rich history, skills and abilities and likes and dislikes. Our home is our community and it’s our residents’ life stories combined with our unique expertise in caring for people, that ensures they can express themselves, maintain their dignity and identity and live full and meaningful lives. Pr�u��� ��-f��-�r�fi�.

Clayburn Court care home, Clayburn Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE7 8LB If you’d like to find out more about the choices Anchor care homes offer our residents, please call 0808 102 4551 or visit anchor.org.uk Rated September 2017

Good

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Useful contacts A

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Action on Elder Abuse 080 880 88141 We work to protect, and prevent the abuse of, vulnerable older adults. Action on Elder Abuse, PO Box 60001, Streatham SW16 9BY I www.elderabuse.org.uk I enquiries@elderabuse.org.uk

Healthwatch Rutland 01572 720381 I www.healthwatchrutland.co.uk I info@healthwatchrutland.co.uk

Admiral Nurses 0800 888 6678 This helpine has been set up to provide people with an opportunity to talk through their worries and concerns about themselves, friends or relatives with dementia. The lines are open on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11am and 9pm. Callers can leave messages any time and request a call back I www.dementiauk.org I direct@dementiauk.org Age UK Cambridgeshire & Peterborough 0300 666 9860 Providing practical services and support to make later life better. The Lindens, 86 Lincoln Road, Peterborough PE1 2SN I www.ageukcap.org.uk I infoandadvice@ageukcap.org.uk

N National Osteoporosis Society 0808 800 0035 Advice, information and support group for people with osteoporosis. I www.nos.org.uk National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) 0800 298 7650 Provide information, support and advice for people living with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I www.nras.org.uk I enquiries@nras.org.uk

Alzheimer's Society 01733 893 853 The UK’s leading dementia charity, working tirelessly to challenge perceptions, fund research and improve and provide care and support. I www.alzheimers.org.uk I peterborough@alzheimers.org.uk

NHS 111

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Parkinson's Disease Society I www.parkinsons.org.uk

CareAware 0161 707 1107 A one stop shop for free advice on care fee funding for older people. I enquiries@careaware.co.uk Care Quality Commission (CQC) 03000 616161 National Correspondence, Citygate, Gallowgate, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4PA I www.cqc.org.uk I enquiries@cqc.org.uk Carers Trust Peterborough 01733 645234 We support family carers of all ages across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Norfolk. I www.carerstrustcpn.org/ I hello@carerstrustcpn.org Carers UK 0808 808 7777 Prevents carers from becoming emotionally drained, and from forgetting to take care of themselves. 20 Great Dover Street, London SE1 4LX I General enquiries: 0207 378 4999 I Advice line: 0808 808 7777 I www.carersuk.org I info@carersuk.org Cruse Bereavement Care 0808 808 1677 Cruse Bereavement Care is here to support you after the death of someone close. I www.cruse.org.uk I helpline@cruse.org.uk

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P Peterborough Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 855 2122 16-17 St Mark's Street, Peterborough, PE1 2TU I www.peterboroughcab.org.uk 0800 800 0303

R Royal Voluntary Service 0330 555 0310 A volunteer organisation that enriches the lives of older people and their families across Britain. We support older people by giving time and practical help to help them get the best from life. Royal Voluntary Service, Beck Court, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff CF23 8RP I www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk Rutland Community Wellbeing Service 01572 725805 Healthy lifestyles, emotional and financial wellbeing. I info@rutlandrap.org.uk Rutland County Council – General enquiries I www.rutland.gov.uk I enquiries@rutland.gov.uk

01572 722577

Rutland Housing MOT 01933 410084 I spirehomes.careandrepair@longhurst-group.org.uk Rutland Information Service Online directory of organisations, activities and services in Rutland covering things to do, health and wellbeing, care options and staying independent. I http://ris.rutland.gov.uk

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DIAL (Disability Information Advice Line) 01733 265 551 DIAL Peterborough provide information and advice to disabled people, their family and professionals on all aspects of living with a disability. DIAL Peterborough, Cresset Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX

Stroke Association 0303 3033 100 Advice and information for stroke patients and their families. I www.stroke.org.uk

Disability Service Centre Get advice or information about a claim you’ve already made for Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment. I www.gov.uk/disability-benefits-helpline

The Department of Work and Pensions I www.dwp.gov.uk The Pension Service I w ww.gov.uk/contact-pension-service

E Elderly Accommodation Counsel 0800 377 7070 Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) is a national charity that aims to help older people make informed choices about meeting their housing and care needs. I w ww.eac.org.uk I info@firststopadvice.org.uk

H Healthwatch Peterborough 03451 202064 The new independent consumer champion created to gather and represent the views of the public at both national and local level. I www.healthwatchpeterborough.co.uk

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M Mind (National Association for Mental Health) 0300 123 3393 The leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress. I www.mind.org.uk I contact@mind.org.uk

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Every possible care has been taken to ensure that the information given in this publication is correct at the time of going to print. Whilst the publisher would be grateful to learn of any errors, it cannot accept any liability over and above the cost of the advertisement for loss there by caused. Octagon Design & Marketing Ltd has not vetted the advertisers in this publication and accepts no liability for work done or goods supplied by any advertiser. Nor does Octagon Design & Marketing Ltd endorse any of the products or services. No reproduction by any method whatsoever of any part of this publication is permitted without prior written consent of the copyright owners. Octagon Design & Marketing Ltd. ©2019. Hawks Nest Cottage, Great North Road, Bawtry, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN10 6AB. Telephone: 01302 714528 Options Peterborough is published by Octagon Design and Marketing Ltd with editorial contributions from North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, the CQC, Age UK, the Alzheimer’s Society, the NHS and Rutland County Council. The editorial contributors have not vetted the advertisers in this publication and accepts no liability for work done or goods supplied by any advertiser. Nor do the editorial contributors endorse any of the products or services.

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