Options Leicestershire and Rutland Spring 2024

Leicestershire and Rutland OPTIONS

What’s next?

NHS continuing healthcare Leaving hospital

Who’s eligible? SOCIAL CARE

Healthcare services

Choosing the right one

What can Marwood offer you?

~ 24 hour short or long-term residential care

~ A comfortable home-from-home environment

~ A bespoke care package tailored to meet your needs

~ An experienced and dedicated staff team

~ A holistic approach to care provision which focusses on promotion of independence and choice

~ An inclusive culture welcoming family and friends into our home

~ We understand that it is a huge decision to move into 24 hour care so we offer trial days to help you make the transition

For more information, please contact our friendly team: Tel: 01509 600625 • www.preciouscarehomes.uk • info@preciouscarehomes.uk Marwood Residential Home, 57 Ashby Road Central, Shepshed, Loughborough, LE12 9BS Providing high quality care in the Shepshed, Loughborough area

We are proud to be one of the most recommended care homes in the East Midlands, but don’t just take it from us...

“We have found Marwood to be one of the best care homes in the county. The rooms and lounges are well set out and very homely for residents and visitors. The staff are friendly and always cheerful. Marwood is an easy place to work with, we feel lucky to have been able to place mother into their care.”

Darian M (Son-in-law of Resident)

WYGGESTON’S AND TRINITY ALMSHOUSES

APARTMENTS FOR COMFORTABLE INDEPENDENT

LIVING

Wyggeston’s and Trinity provide a range of self-contained apartments for the over 60’s at our peaceful Hinckley Road and Western Boulevard sites, close to the city centre.

• One and Two Bedroom Apartments • Perfect for individuals and couples.

• Affordable fees • High quality, purpose-build accommodation.

• Beautiful landscaped gardens • Wide range of facilities, including library and community lounge.

• Varied activities programme • Chapels on site.

At Wyggeston’s and Trinity, our properties are designed to give residents independence in an inclusive community, with the reassurance of an emergency alarm service and Warden Support.

For more information about life at our Almshouses and eligibility criteria, please contact us using the details below:

By

By

Please also have a look at our websites: www.wyggestons.org.uk | www.trinityleicester.gov.uk

Supporting you to stay well and independent

Leicestershire County Council knows that being at home with the right support is the best way for people to recover and stay well following a hospital admission. We work closely with the NHS and other partners across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to make health and care services sustainable for the future.

If you are worried that you might need help and you are not sure that it has been arranged, speak to a member of staff on the ward. You may benefit from short-term support to get dressed or with meal preparation – this is often called reablement and is designed to help you increase your independence in a variety of ways. This could be through the provision of equipment to help you with day-to-day tasks or practice to get back the skills you need for daily living.

Independence in your own home

They can help you to improve your balance and mobility and reduce the risk of falling.

There are practical ways to make your home more accessible and maintain your independence. Sometimes the simplest things can improve your daily life, like moving items onto lower shelves, or fitting a second stair rail. Investing in specially designed equipment and products known as Care Technology can also make a difference. These include discreet lifeline alarms which connect to round-the-clock assistance as well as a range of equipment to support people to remain safe and independent both at home and in the community. These can provide reassurance for you and help carers keep the people they are caring for safe and supported. Find out more at www.leicestershire.gov.uk/care-technology Most district councils provide a chargeable community lifeline service, find out more at www.leicestershire. gov.uk/lifelines-telecare-and-alarms

For more advice about staying independent in your home please visit www.safeandwell.co.uk/leicester Other suppliers of Care technology and equipment can be viewed in our online information and support directory at www.leicestershire.gov.uk/lisd

Staying well

First Contact Plus is a service that offers online information, advice and support on improving your health, preventing falls, feeling safe, living independently, debts and benefits, work, learning and volunteering, families and relationships and your home. Visit www.firstcontactplus.org.uk to see the full range of services and support available to Leicestershire residents. If you need extra help, you can use the ‘make a referral’ button and a member of the team will call you back within two working days.

The website also includes links to the Warm Homes service for help and advice on making your home warmer and more energy efficient visit www.firstcontactplus.org.uk/our-services/your-home/ warm-homes or call 0116 305 2524.

If you have had a fall or are worried about falling, First Contact Plus can refer you to the free service offered by the NHS Falls team. They can help you to improve your balance and mobility and reduce the risk of falling. For more information visit www.firstcontactplus.org.uk/our-services/falls

Local Area Co-ordination (LAC) can also offer help to people who live in the county to be strong, more connected to their local community and in control of their own lives preventing further crisis or problems. For more information visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/ leisure-and-community/community-safety/local-areaco-ordinators or call 0116 305 9646.

Leicestershire’s Shared Lives Service offers an alternative care service for adults with disabilities and older people. Individuals move into or regularly visit their Shared Lives carer’s home and together they share family and community life. To find out more visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/shared-lives-placements or call 0116 305 0004.

caring for, but you need to keep well and look after yourself too.

Register as a carer with your GP practice, as they may be able to offer flexible appointments and yearly health checks. Make a plan in case of emergencies and let family members and friends know where to find essential personal and medication information by using the Message in Bottle scheme or the Herbert Protocol for anyone living with a memory problem visit www.leics.police.uk/notices/af/herbert-protocol

Caring for others can be very demanding and can affect your health and wellbeing.

Visit https://www.carechoices.co.uk/publication/ leicestershire/ to access the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Adult Care and Support Services Directory and Dementia Friendly Leicestershire - a practical guide to living with dementia.

Looking after someone

If you look after a family member or friend, it is vital that you recognise yourself as a carer. Caring for others can be very demanding and can affect your health and wellbeing. We know your priority is the person you are

The County Council has a range of online tools and information designed to support carers and commissions a support service for adult carers across the county. For more information on local and national support services and our online carer’s assessment form visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/ looking-after-someone

For more information

If you live in the county and need more information and advice on adult care services visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/adultsocial-care-and-health

Live your best life - Rutland

Supporting you in the place you call home, where you feel safe valued and part of your community.

Rutland Hospital Discharge team

If you or a relative require support on discharge, the Rutland Hospital Team will be notified by the Hospital and work closely with you to identify the support you require, ensuring your timely discharge from hospital. You can contact the team by calling 01572 720992

Rutland’s Adult Social Care

If you would like a chat about support to help you manage at home longer term, contact Rutland’s Adult Social Care team. via our self-service portal: https://socialcare.rutland.gov.uk/web/portal/pages/home or our website, inc safeguarding: https://www.rutland.gov.uk/adultsocialcare

wondering how much care and support my cost? Visit our online financial assessments hub: https://rutland.mycostofcare.com/Hub

Mental health Central Access Point - it's open 7 days a week - 24 hours a day for the appropriate service for your mental health needs: https://www.leicspart.nhs.uk/ service/central-access-point/

Rutland Housing Options Team

If you or a relative need rehousing, the Housing Options team can talk to you about the options available via the Council’s Housing Register. The Council manage a Housing Register for residents of Rutland that require social housing. To contact call 01572 758 157 or email housingoptions@rutland.gov.uk

Rutland

Admiral Nurse Service

Admiral nurses are specialist dementia nurses who help families, considering the person living with dementia and the people around them. They provide tailored clinical advice and psychological support to people affected by dementia.

• Empower you to have choice and control over your life

• Work with GP’s, Adult social care community nursing teams, voluntary sector, families and carers

Rise have a website, which has made it easier than ever to access health and wellbeing services. You can find out more by going to: www.rutland.gov.uk/joy or scanning this QR code with your smartphone

Are you a carer?

A carer is anyone, including children and adults who looks after a family member, partner or friend who cannot cope without their support. The care they give is unpaid.

We recognise the valuable role carers play and our carers team will guide you to the support available.

Adult Carers

• Please access the Council’s carers team - https:// services.thejoyapp.com/en/listings/11146-rutlandcounty-council-rise-carers-team

• Telephone 01572 758341.

• Further information https://www.rutland.gov.uk/ adultsocialcare

Young Carers

• referrals via Early Help – 01572 758407 or earlyhelp@rutland.gov.uk

• The Council’s Young Carers Service: https://www. rutland.gov.uk/children-young-people-families/servicesyoung-people/young-carers

Rutland’s therapy services offer

• Therapy Assessment for equipment provision, moving and handling, falls risks and adaptations.

We recognise the valuable role carers play and our carers team will guide you to the support available.

Our Admiral Nurses are part of the Adult Social Care team at the Council. Supported by Dementia UK, the specialist Admiral Nurse Charity. They Provide one-toone support, expert guidance, and practical solutions to help families to live more positively with dementia. Tel: 01572 720959 or email AdmiralNurse@Rutland.gov.uk

Rise – Rutland integrated social empowerment service.

This service will support you to:-

• Maintain your independence at home

• Reablement service to help prevent a hospital admission, or to support you on your return home from hospital.

• Grant funding may be available to support with funding adaptations.

• Housing MOT Service offering a home check service supporting residents to maintain their independence and live safely

• Assistive Technology Service provides access to a range of technologies

To access these services https://socialcare.rutland.gov.uk/ web/portal/pages/public

Tel: 01572 758324 or email TDUTY@rutland.gov.uk

Assistive Technology

Technology can help you to remain independent at home. Assistive Technology can support with many tasks, for example, reminding you to make

The life that matters to you

At Leicester City Council, adult social care uses a strengths-based approach. This means we will take time to listen and understand what matters to you, considering your skills, resources and the people and activities around you.

Our online services

You can find out about Leicester’s adult social care services online. As well as information and advice, you will soon be able to complete and submit some forms online, quickly and in your own time – such as selfreferrals or a carer’s assessment.

You will also be able to use the new online financial assessment calculator. This helps some people complete their annual financial reviews online, in their own time. But it can also be used to see how much you would have to pay towards your care costs.

And if you can’t use the online services, the usual means of getting in touch are unchanged.

Are you a carer?

Many carers don’t relate to the word carer and feel they are just doing what anyone else would do in their situation – looking after their mother, father, wife, husband, son, daughter or friend, for example.

If you regularly help someone in your family, a friend or a neighbour with their day to day living tasks, you are a carer.

Many carers don’t relate to the word carer and feel they are just doing what anyone else would do in their situation.

If this sounds like you, support is available. We work with the Leicester Carers’ Support Service, for anyone over the age of 18. To find out more about the service and what it offers, email: carers@ageukleics.org.uk or call the helpline on: 0116 222 0538.

Help when you need it

Equipment is available from LeicesterCare to help with some everyday tasks and to keep you safe.

LeicesterCare offers a range of care technology, such as:

• Equipment which directly supports someone, such as medication reminders and electronic medication dispensers, night lights to reduce the risk of fall s or calendar clocks/clocks with prompts to help a person to manage their day.

• Equipment which sends an alert to a pager, in the possession of another person in the home, when help might be required. This equipment includes epilepsy sensors, pressure floor mats, bed occupancy sensors or sensors which send an alert when a door is open.

• Telecare equipment, which will send an alert to a local caring call handling service, which will then organise for an appropriate person to respond. This could be a friend or family member, a carer, a doctor, an emergency 999 service, etc. This type of equipment, as well as the above examples, also includes wearable sensors, which detect when a person may have fallen or property exit sensors, which detect when someone has left a safe location.

To find out more, call: 0116 373 7960.

Digital project keeps patients safely monitored at home

A project launched during the pandemic to help patients stay safe at home is being turned into the usual way of providing care.

“It was reassuring that the nurses were monitoring my condition every day, it was like a comfort blanket.”

When coronavirus first hit, it was soon clear that people with long term heart and lung conditions were among the most vulnerable. In those prevaccine days, there was a premium on keeping them away from possible sources of infection –such as they might experience when travelling to clinics or even staying in hospital.

Yet their original conditions were serious and required regular monitoring to ensure their medicines and exercises were working appropriately.

Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and Leicester-based technology company Spirit Digital worked together to launch a series of “virtual wards” to care for these patients.

This involved the patients using simple gadgets at home to measure their vital signs such as blood pressure and oxygen levels, and then communicating these to clinicians who could offer the patients tailored advice to help them.

The results have been patients spending more time in their home surroundings, reduced infection risks, and outcomes which were better than the previous clinic-based way of managing their care. In some cases the virtual wards meant inpatients could leave hospital sooner than expected.

Barry James, a heart patient, would advise others to use the technology instead of spending more time in hospital. He said: “There’s nothing like being at home in familiar surroundings.

“It was reassuring that the nurses were monitoring my condition every day, it was like a comfort blanket.”

As the number of inpatients with Covid got to its peak, the virtual ward concept was used so that some of them could be discharged home early under supervision while being gradually eased off oxygen.

One of these patients was Philip Walker from Leicester. He said: “Because I had Covid I was just stuck in my hospital bed. I wasn’t allowed any visitors and couldn’t go for a walk, so when I was told I could go home I felt like I’d won the lottery! It was a great relief.”

Patients are given access to software which enables them to fill out a daily questionnaire about their symptoms, using their mobile phone or tablet. If they don’t have access to one, they are loaned one for as long as they need it. They are also given a thermometer and an oxygen monitor which clips on to their finger in order to record these details on the system.

Virtual ward patients l-r: Barry James and Philip Walker

Patients are monitored for at least 14 days, and can contact the team at any time if they have concerns.

“They have all really gone above and beyond to ensure their patients got the absolute best possible care.”

The first virtual ward set up in response to the pandemic was so successful that rates of readmission to hospital were half those seen in settings where this service wasn’t available. More than 360 patients have now been discharged onto this service, with around 50 being monitored at any one time during the peak of the pandemic. More than 1,000 patients have benefited from all remote monitoring schemes since the beginning of the pandemic.

Alex Woodward, deputy cardio-respiratory lead at Leicestershire Partnerships Trust, said: “The virtual ward has been a real success. Not only has it eased some pressure on the hospitals, it has had an immeasurable impact on patients’ wellbeing and recovery.

“The success of this service is purely down to how much effort and hard work every member of the respiratory, heart failure, rehab and admin

teams have put into supporting their patients. They have all really gone above and beyond to ensure their patients got the absolute best possible care.”

Irene Valero-Sanchez, consultant respiratory physician and clinical lead for integrated care at University Hospitals of Leicester, said: “The feedback we have received from patients has been fantastic. Readmission rates were really low, in part because people felt confident that they were being supported and because they had direct access to a specialist team to address their concerns.

“Evidence shows that people recover better in the comfort of their own homes and for the Covid patients in particular, it was so important to get them back home and out of hospital where they’d been through what was, for many, one of the most frightening experiences of their lives.”

The project was shortlisted for a Health Service Journal award – the healthcare version of an Oscar.

Patients complete simple questionnaires asking them about their condition

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.

1 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.

2 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)?

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

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

you want to.

A care home will

a

for you or your

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

you or a loved one needs help with day-to-day 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.

services department should be able to provide details of approved agencies.

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.

Scraptoft Court Care Home

273a Scraptoft Lane, Leicester LE5 2HT

Tel: 0116 243 1115

scraptoft@live.co.uk

At Scraptoft Court we offer a comprehensive range of social and nursing care and support to adults. We provide these services to people with physical disabilities and mental health needs including dementia.

We will meet individual’s specific and desired needs to achieve greater independence and control over their own lives. We aim to provide a permanent home for our residents; giving them a feeling of individuality and security.

We are proud to offer the following services:

• Nursing Staff available 24 hours a day

• Single and double rooms with en-suite facilities

• Large gardens with patio area

• Passenger lift to all floors

• Choice of menu to suit all needs

• Hairdessing, chiropody and physiotherapy services

• In house activities and outings programme For more information, please contact us.

NHS healthcarecontinuing

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 cannot be met by existing universal or specialist services alone.

Find out more about the children and young people’s continuing care national framework on GOV.UK

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 are not 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.

Your eligibility for NHS continuing healthcare depends on your assessed needs, and not on any particular diagnosis or condition.

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 is not 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.

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

Integrated care boards, known as ICBs (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.

Being referred for a full assessment does not necessarily mean 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.

For most people, there’s an initial checklist assessment, which is used to decide if you need a full assessment.

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 what the assessment involves.

Depending on the outcome of the checklist, you’ll either be told that you do not 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.

You can download a blank copy of the NHS continuing healthcare checklist from GOV.UK

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 medicine

If you’re eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, the next stage is to arrange a care and support package that meets your assessed needs.

• 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 1 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 1 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 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 1 local care home that’s suitable.

Your ICB 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.

If your needs have changed, the review will also consider whether you’re still eligible for NHS continuing healthcare.

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.

Refunds for delays in NHS continuing healthcare funding

ICBs 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 the ICB 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.

Find out more about NHS continuing healthcare from NHS England.

Frequently asked questions about 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 ICB 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 1 option being a “direct payment for healthcare”.

Q

FAQ’s

Can I refuse an assessment for NHS continuing healthcare? If I refuse, will I be able to get services from my local authority?

Consent is not needed for completion of assessments (CHC Checklists, Decision Support Tools (inclusive of FNC by default) and Fast Track), or collation and sharing of information with:

• Care Teams

• Health and Social Care Staff

But consent is needed to share personal information collected for, and as part of, assessments (Checklist, Decision Support Tool (inclusive of FNC by default) and Fast Track) with third parties, such as family, friends or representatives, at the beginning of the process.

There is a legal limit to the types of services that a Local Authority can provide. If you have any concerns about being assessed for NHS continuing healthcare, the ICB should explore your reasons for this, and try to address your concerns.

If someone lacks the mental capacity to consent to sharing of information with third parties (other than Care Teams or Health and Social Care Staff), the principles of the Mental Capacity Act will apply and a best interests decision may be needed.

Q

My relative is in a care home and has become eligible for NHS continuing healthcare. The ICB 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?

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 ICB. It will take your concerns into account when considering the most appropriate arrangements.

If the ICB 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 is not 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.

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

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.

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.

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 money every 3 months.

Most councils will ask for evidence of how you’ve spent your money every 3 months.

When to consider other options

When to consider other options

You may decide direct payments are not helpful if:

You may decide direct payments are not helpful if:

How to apply for direct payments

How to apply for direct payments

You should be offered direct payments as an option after your needs assessment.

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.

You can also ask your local council’s social services department about direct payments.

How direct payments work

How direct payments work

You could also consider having someone else manage your direct payments, for example a friend or family member.

You could also consider having someone else manage your direct payments, for example a friend or family member.

• you’re worried about managing money or the people you employ

• you’re worried about managing money or the people you employ

• you spend a lot of time in hospital

• you spend a lot of time in hospital

• you would rather the council arranged your care

• 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.

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.

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.

The Money Advice Service has information about setting up a trust.

If you choose direct payments, the council will send you the money in your personal budget by either:

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

• paying it directly into a bank, Post Office, building society or National Savings and Investments account

• sending you a pre-paid card

• 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.

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

Signing a direct payment agreement

The council might ask you to sign a document called a direct payment agreement. This says:

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

• 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

When choosing an agency, decide what sort of service you’re looking for and the tasks you need help with.

• 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:

• 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

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.

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)

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 integrated care board (ICB) 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

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 to 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.

• 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

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 ICB to review the decision.

The cost of NHS-funded nursing care

NHS-funded nursing care is paid at the same rate across England. In May 2022, the rate was set at £209.19 a week (standard rate) and will be backdated to 1 April 2022.

If you moved into a care home before 1 October 2007, and you were on the previous high band, NHS-funded nursing care is paid at a higher rate. In May 2022, the higher rate was set at £287.78 a week and will be backdated to 1 April 2022. 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 £209.19 a week, or

• you become entitled to NHS continuing healthcare instead

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 – this is called the upper capital limit, or UCL, and will rise to £100,000 from October 2025

• you own your own property (this only applies if you’re moving into a care home)

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

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

How to arrange your care as a self-funder

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)

Having a carer who lives with you costs from around £800 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:

• around £700 a week in a residential home

• over £850 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.

Benefits can help with care costs

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.

Find out what care you need

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.

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.

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.

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.

Can I avoid selling my home?

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

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

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.

Contact your local council about 3 months before you think your savings will drop to below the limit and ask them to reassess your finances.

Releasing money from your home (equity release)

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

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

MoneyHelper has more information on equity release.

Renting out your home

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

A deferred payment scheme

A deferred payment scheme can be useful if you have savings less than £23,250 (or £100,000 from October 2025) 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:

• MoneyHelper: deferred payment schemes

• Independent Age: do I have to sell my home to pay for residential care?

Get expert financial help

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

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

• Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) on 0333 2020 454

Telephone help

Get advice on paying for care from:

• Age UK on freephone 0800 055 6112

• Independent Age on freephone 0800 319 6789

• MoneyHelper on freephone 0800 011 3797

If your savings run out

If your savings fall below the upper capital limit of £23,250 (or £100,000 from October 2025), 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 the limit 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 below the limit before you contact them.

What you can get for free

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 illness or hospital discharge (reablement)

At Witlens Ltd, we passionately believe that most people want to receive care whilst in their homes to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Our services include:

• Caring for adults over 65 yrs

• Caring for adults under 65 yrs

• Caring for children (0 - 18yrs)

• Dementia

• Learning disabilities

• Mental health conditions

• Physical disabilities

• Sensory impairments

• Complex Care (Treatment of disease, disorder or injury)

We are a household name in Domiciliary Care and Supported Living Service, for more info on how we can help, contact us:

Driving and using public transport if you have mobility issues

If you’re older or disabled, there are ways to make it easier for you to use public transport or to drive.

You can get help:

• using public transport

• getting discounts on public transport

• from the NHS with travel costs

• finding community transport schemes

• using taxis

If you have mobility problems and you need a car to get around, you may be able to get help with costs and parking by:

• discounted or free road tax

If you’re using public transport, it’s worth contacting the transport operator before you travel to make sure they’re able to provide the help you need.

• a Blue Badge parking permit

• leasing a vehicle through the Motability scheme

You can also find out about walking aids, wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Using public transport

All public transport has to be “accessible” so disabled passengers can use it. Public transport also has to accept guide dogs or assistance dogs.

If you’re using public transport, it’s worth contacting the transport operator before you travel to make sure they’re able to provide the help you need.

Buses and trains usually have priority seating for older people and people with disabilities. They also usually have space and wide doors for wheelchairs. Some buses, trains and trams are fitted with ramps.

Public transport in London

London transport (trains, buses and river boats) is being upgraded to improve step-free access, to help with wheelchair access and avoiding stairs on Transport for London.

Staff at underground stations are also trained to help people move around the underground system – for example, by helping you use lifts instead of escalators and steps, and calling ahead to arrange for help at your destination.

Discounts on public transport

Older people and people with disabilities can usually travel free on local buses anywhere in England between 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday, and at any time during the weekend and on bank holidays.

Some local councils offer free travel for longer, and some allow a companion to travel with you for free.

Find your local council on GOV.UK.

Apply for an older person’s bus pass on GOV.UK or apply for a disabled person’s bus pass on GOV.UK.

If you often travel by train, it’s probably worth checking the Disabled Persons Railcard website to see if you are eligible for a disabled persons railcard. This gives you, and a companion travelling with you, a third off the price of rail tickets.

Children aged 5 to 15 with disabilities are also eligible for a disabled persons railcard. This lets an adult travel with them for a third of the cost of most adult fares, while the child pays the normal child fare.

NHS help with travel costs

If you pay to travel to a hospital or other NHS setting for NHS-funded treatment or tests, you may be able to claim a refund of reasonable travel costs.

Community transport schemes

These schemes provide transport to and from hospitals, GP surgeries, dentists, opticians and chiropodists and podiatrists.

Many areas offer a free “Dial-a-Ride” service, which gives you door-to-door transport if you can’t use normal buses.

You need to register for some schemes and you may have to pay. Carers may be able to travel with you for an extra charge.

Road tax reductions

You may also be able to get a reduction in your road tax, or not have to pay it at all.

Find out more on GOV.UK about financial help if you’re disabled, such as vehicle tax exemption and vehicle tax reduction.

Blue Badge disabled parking scheme

You may be able to get a Blue Badge parking permit for your car.

This lets you park in disabled parking bays.

With a Blue Badge, you can:

• park for free within certain times

• park on single and double yellow lines

• stay longer in on-street time-limited parking bays

Blue Badge schemes are run by local councils. Most councils will let you apply for or renew a Blue Badge on GOV.UK.

Blue Badge holders can apply for a 100% Blue Badge discount for the London Congestion Charge, on the Transport for London website.

Motability Scheme

The Motability Scheme lets you use your mobility allowance to lease a car, powered wheelchair or scooter. You can also pay extra for a more expensive vehicle.

You need to receive 1 of the allowances used on the scheme and have at least 12 months left on your award.

Many areas offer a free “Dial-a-Ride” service, which gives you doorto-door transport if you can’t use normal buses.

Check with your local council’s social services team whether there is a community transport scheme in your area.

Using taxis

Taxi and private hire companies can provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles if you ask for one when you book.

Some councils give free taxi vouchers to people who find it difficult to use public transport.

Driving with mobility problems

If you have mobility problems and you need a car to get around, you may be able to get help with costs and parking.

The allowances used include:

• the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults on GOV.UK

• the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) on GOV.UK

• the War Pension Scheme: Mobility Supplement (WPMS) on GOV.UK

• the enhanced rate mobility component of Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), which you can claim on GOV.UK if you were injured while serving in the armed forces

Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland

Whatever you need, we are here to help

Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland have over 70 years of experience in supporting people in later life, offering over 25 services to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for a bit of help around the home, support to care for a loved one, help with rising energy costs or would like a regular telephone call or visit from one of our befrienders, we can help. Details of all our services can be found online, as well as a hand-picked selection here for you to find out more about what we offer.

Home Care

Our experienced and friendly Home Care team provide a flexible range of support, care and services to meet all your needs, supporting you or your loved one, as and when you need it including:

Domestic Help

We take pride in cleaning your home to a standard that will meet your expectations. Our service includes dusting, hoovering, changing the beds, ironing and much more, leaving your home spic and span.

Personal Care

If you’re looking for support with your own or your loved one’s daily personal care routine, from getting in and out of bed, bathing, using the toilet, dressing, medication management and much more, our friendly care team can support you. We offer personalised care to meet your individual needs, maintaining dignity and respect to ensure you are up and ready to face the day.

Handyman

Got a small job that needs doing? Our handyman service can help with most household jobs big and small, including putting up shelves or curtain rails, installing handrails, repairing fences, fitting key safes and general household maintenance tasks.

Gardening

Our experienced gardeners complete a variety of jobs to a high standard including raking leaves, trimming hedges, painting fences, pruning, and keeping the weeds at bay, allowing you to continue to enjoy your garden all year round.

Shopping and Meal Preparation

Enjoying a hot home cooked meal is something we all enjoy and is a big part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We can help with meal planning and preparation, cook a meal or simply ensure the fridge is full of nutritious food for you to prepare your own meals and snacks. With our support we can provide you with the help you need so you can have peace of mind that you or loved one can enjoy nutritious meals every day.

Footcare

It’s important to take good care of your feet and give them a little TLC. Our footcare service is here to assist and help you to maintain good foot health offering a variety of care including a nail trim and foot soak, leaving your feet softer and more comfortable.

Carer Respite

We all need a little break now and then, a change of scenery

or chance for some ‘me time’; it can work wonders for how we feel, leaving us replenished and energised. Carers can look forward to some time for themselves in the knowledge that their loved one is being well looked after by our experienced care workers from our specialist Carers Respite service or in our Day Clubs.

Day Clubs

Joining one of our day clubs offers daytime care, fun activities & friendship at local community venues across the city and county of Leicestershire. Our clubs offer a warm and welcoming ‘home from home’ environment where you can enjoy a hot lunch and a range of activities throughout the day. Supported by trained care staff, we have specialist day clubs to meet people’s individual needs and abilities including people living with dementia, mobility and personal care needs, mental health and learning disabilities.

Help with Rising Costs

As daily living costs increase, we can help you to keep energy bills down and look at whether you are receiving all the money you are entitled to.

Free Benefits Checks

Ill health or difficulty doing everyday tasks such as bathing or walking to the shops can mean you are entitled to benefits to help get the support you need. Our benefits experts can find out if you are eligible and support you to claim for them.

Save Money on your Fuel Bills

Our Warm and Wise service can provide you with a free home energy check, providing tailored information and advice to help reduce your bills. We will assess energy usage in your home advising on how you can stay warm for less money, any grants you may be entitled to and fit free energy saving products such as draught excluders, timers and light bulbs.

For more information call 0116 299 2233 or contact enquiries@ageukleics.org.uk

Information & Advice Line

Free, independent and confidential information and advice for people aged over 50, including benefit entitlement checks, care, housing, carers support and more.

Telephone: 0116 299 2278

Email: enquiries@ageukleics.org.uk

Open: Mon – Thurs 09:00 – 13:00

Dementia Support Service

Leicester and Leicestershire

Our Dementia Support Service in Leicester and Leicestershire offers information, advice and signposting; personalised one to one support; post diagnostic support; carer support; opportunities to get involved in social groups, memory cafes and activities for people living with dementia.

Telephone: 0116 223 7360

Email: dementia.support@ageukleics.org.uk

Open: Mon – Fri 08:30 – 17:30

Rutland

Our Dementia Support service in Rutland offers support for those living with dementia and their carers and actively promotes the wellbeing of those living with dementia through one-to-one support and group activities.

Telephone: 01572 823942

Open: Mon, Wed & Thurs 09:00 – 15:00

Support for Carers

Leicester Carers Support Service

Support and information for all carers in Leicester aged 18+ looking after a family member or friend.

Contact: 0116 222 0538 Email: carers@ageukleics.org.uk

Support in the Community

Resource Centres

A community focal point offering a range of services and activities such as exercise classes and social events, cafes, information and advice surgeries.

Clarence House, Leicester City: 0116 299 2233

Gloucester House, Melton Mowbray: 01664 410253

Earl Shilton Centre: 01455 847666

Day Clubs

An opportunity to enjoy spending time out of the home engaging in fun activities whilst providing respite for carers. Companionship and support for older people with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. Free taster sessions are available. Please call our friendly team for more information.

Telephone: 0116 222 0572 Open: Mon – Fri 08:30 – 17:00

Befriending

Befriending services support older people who may be lonely or socially isolated and would benefit from a friendly face calling on a regular basis at a mutually convenient day and time.

Telephone: 0116 204 6440

Email: befriending@ageukleics.org.uk

Men in Sheds & Women in Sheds

A place to pursue practical interests with a high degree of autonomy. Members share tools and resources to work on projects of their own choosing, at their own pace and in a safe, friendly and inclusive venue. Please call the Shed for latest opening days and times.

Charnwood Shed: 01509 211 603

Email: charnwoodshed@ageukleics.org.uk Rutland Shed: 01572 720319

Email: rutlandshed@ageukleics.org.uk

Warm & Wise

Offering a free Home Energy Assessment of your home, we can advise on how to stay warm for less money and fit free energy saving products (subject to eligibility) to help you save money on your energy bills.

Telephone: 0116 261 4604

Email: warmandwise@ageukleics.org.uk

United Against Dementia

Alzheimer’s Society wants everyone affected by dementia to know that whoever you are, whatever you are going through, you can turn to them for support, help and advice.

Dementia Connect

Dementia Connect, from Alzheimer’s Society, is a personalised support service for anyone with dementia, their carers, families and friends.

We understand that dementia affects everyone differently. So whether you, a loved one, a friend or neighbour needs dementia support, we’re here for you.

We’ll connect you to a whole range of dementia support, by phone, online and face to face. Our highlytrained dementia advisers can help people come to terms with their diagnosis and navigate the complicated maze of health and social care services.

It’s free, easy to access, and offers you the support you need. Whether it’s advice on legal documents, help understanding dementia or someone to talk to when things get tough, we’re here to help.

We can keep in touch with you to make sure you keep getting the support you need. And because we know it’s never easy to tell your story, you’ll only ever need to tell it to us once.

Phone support

Our dementia advisers are available to talk to on the phone seven days a week. They will listen and give you the support and advice you need, including connecting you to help in your local area and online.

We can offer you the option of regular calls so we can keep in touch, to find out how you are and help when things change.

Support line opening hours*

Monday – Wednesday: 9:00am – 8:00pm

Thursday – Friday: 9:00am – 5.00pm

Saturday – Sunday: 10:00am – 4:00pm *Calls charged at standard local rate.

Online support

Dementia Connect online support is available round the clock through our website. Answer a few simple questions about yourself, or someone you know, to get personalised, relevant information and advice. From guides on dementia to advice on making your home dementia friendly, get the information about the things that matter to you.

‘The Dementia Adviser was lovely and full of information. Without Alzheimer’s Society and the Dementia Adviser we’d have nothing. She is a major networker and knows everything and everyone local. I feel in charge and empowered.’ Katherine, living with dementia

If you need further support, you can request a call from our dementia advisers, who should be in touch with you within a week. Our online support includes Talking Point, our online community where you can connect with others in a similar situation, and our Dementia Directory where you can search for local services.

Face to face support

Where possible, our local dementia support workers can meet you in person to offer further support, advice and information. They will also connect you to other face to face services in your area, including local support groups.

Notes: Dementia Connect phone and online support is available wherever you live. As the service is new, some parts of the service may not be available in your area just yet.

How can you support Alzheimer’s Society?

1) Fundraising and events

From Memory Walk and Cupcake Day to challenging yourself in marathons and treks. There’s plenty of ways you can get involved to help raise money. Search ‘get involved’ on alzheimers.org.uk

2) Donate

Our dementia support services are made possible thanks to generous donations from the public. However, you don’t have to join an event or seek sponsorship to do this. Simply head to alzheimers.org.uk and donate what you can to unite against dementia.

3) Become a campaigner

At Alzheimer’s Society, we work to amplify the voices of people affected by dementia, to create a world where they get the support and care they deserve. We can’t do this alone. Whether you have dementia, you have a personal connection to dementia or you want to stand with those who do. Together we can make a difference, register to become a campaigner at alzheimers.org.uk

“Dementia can and does affect so many families, including mine.

“My father was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in the summer of 2012. He passed away in September 2018.

“I wanted to do something to help raise awareness of the condition and tackle the stigma associated, so I reached out to Alzheimer’s Society to see if I could help. It gives me an enormous sense of pride being an Ambassador for Alzheimer’s Society and I feel like I’m making a difference.

“I have also personally enjoyed taking part in fundraising activities like Cupcake Day and Memory Walk, as there is a real sense of togetherness for a good cause.

“For anyone wanting to know how they can help, I’d say get involved. Whatever you can give, be that your time, voice or money, you’ll know you’ve made a difference to the lives of people affected by dementia.”

Meera

Syal, actor and Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador

Get in touch

If you are affected by dementia in and would like information and support, contact us:

T: 0333 150 3456

W: alzheimers.org.uk/dementiaconnect

E: dementia.connect@alzheimers.org.uk

Provides full range of high quality care tailored to suit the needs of the individual

• All aspects of personal care, including the use of hoists and other equipment where necessary.

• Shopping, prescription collection and similar errands.

• Household cleaning, washing, ironing, making and changing beds.

• Preparing and assisting with the cooking and serving meals.

• Sitting service and escort duties.

We have a large team of dedicated carers covering the Shepshed and Coalville area who are committed to providing a service for elderly, disabled or seriously ill people who wish to remain in their own homes.

The services we provide help them to maintain maximum independence, dignity and choice. All of our carers are fully trained and comply with all necessary regulations.

Field House • 19-23 Field Street • Shepshed Leicestershire • LE12 9AL Tel: 01509 505243 • Fax: 01509 651193

Could a little extra help at home make all the difference?

Absolute Care are an established domiciliary care company that have been delivering high quality, personalised care to people in Loughborough and the surrounding areas for over 10 years. We can offer a range of services to help you live as independently at home as possible. Our team are experienced, fully trained and can help you with:

• Personal care

• Medication Support

• Shopping

• Social Inclusion

• Domestic Tasks

• Food Preparation

• Sleep in & Waking Nights

• 24 Hour Care

• End of life care

We can also offer intensive support for clients who require reablement services.

For any further information please call 01509 881 595 to speak to a member of our team or email us at enquiries@absolutecareagency.org

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. No reproduction by any method whatsoever of any part of this publication is permitted without prior written consent of the copyright owners.

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Options Leicestershire and Rutland is published by Octagon Design and Marketing Ltd with editorial contributions from Leicestershire County Council, Leicester City Council, Rutland County Council, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, the CQC, Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland, Alzheimer’s Society and the NHS. 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.

“We are passionate about putting

Here at Orchard Manor View we are passionate about our ability to bring in high quality care into a high-quality environment. That is why our mission is to bring warmth, independence, care and support to our service user’s so that we can improve their quality of life and provide peace of mind in a clean, comfortable, safe and friendly environment.

Orchard Manor View is a stunning purpose built care home with a difference. We provide care for adults aged 55+, for those living with Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and people who are elderly or frail and need of care and assistance.

Beautifully furnished to a very high standard throughout the home to create peaceful and luxurious living space, Orchard Manor View has an abundance of unique décor and style. From themed lounges for residents to relax in, to a spacious dining room with fully trained chefs to offer freshly prepared tasty, nutritious meals and delicious baked goods.

Our service users will also have access to a new state of the art residents’ kitchen which features a dining area as well as doors out onto a patio area for Al-fresco dining.

At Orchard Manor View, we understand that everyone is an individual and as such have different interests, hobbies and needs. Our landscaped gardens with greenhouse and raised planting beds offer the ideal surroundings for those green fingered gardeners. We also have beautifully well-kept gardens which boast mature, fruit producing trees. These supply the apples for some rather scrumptious apple pies from our chefs.

We are proud to have a quiet sensory courtyard which features a central fountain, wind chimes and seating area surrounding the courtyard, offering a quiet relaxing area to either, soak up the sun or simply to sit and read.

All ground floor bedrooms have patio doors leading out into either, the

courtyard or into the gardens. All 26 high spec bedrooms have en-suites with wet room style shower facilities. For those who prefer to soak the day away however, we have 4 hydro therapy baths which have the facility to play music via Bluetooth and soft lighting to enhance the ambiance.

Our beautifully fitted multi-sensory room is an ideal place to retreat and just sit back, relax and enjoy the therapeutic light displays and bubble tube with music. We also have visiting professionals for the ease and convenience of the service user’s and even have an in-house hairdressing salon, ideal for all special occasions or just because…

Our spacious multi-functional recreation room offers an array of daily games and meaningful activities. There is also a reminiscence corner with memorabilia and interesting activities. Our service users will encounter “areas of interest” along our corridors, especially designed to offer purpose.