Talk to a resident before choosing a care home, expert says

Those looking to find a care home should talk to a current resident, one expert has said.

Daniel Blake, policy development manager at Action on Elder Abuse, has said that by asking a resident what food they enjoy eating and which activities they like to do, those considering moving in can find out whether the service is right for them.

"People should be looking for care homes which deliver a personalised service to residents. One of the best ways of assessing how good a care home is by talking to existing residents," he explained.

This comes after the Care Quality Commission (CQC) announced plans to develop a new scheme to reward excellence in adult social care.

Social care providers can apply for the award whether in the private or voluntary sector.

The CQC will publicise the excellence award on its website alongside reports on whether or not a social care provider is meeting its standards.

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