Your Care Journey Companion

When someone you love needs care, you don't have to figure it out alone. Our step-by-step guide walks you through everything — from that first phone call to settling into a new home.

"I wish I'd had this checklist when mum needed care"

— Sarah, whose mum is now settled at Sunrise Manor

Start Your Care Journey

This is free. We're a Community Interest Company — we're here to help, not to sell.

The 7 Stages of Care

Every family's journey is different, but the steps are similar. Here's your roadmap.

Stage 1

Something's Changed

When you first realise care is needed — hospital discharge, a fall, or just that things aren't quite right anymore.

Don't panic — take a breath, you're not alone

If hospital discharge: ask for a discharge assessment before they send them home

Request a care needs assessment from your local council (it's free)

+2 more tasks

Stage 2

Understanding Your Options

Learning all the ways care can be provided — at home, with adaptations, in a care home, or a combination. A care home isn't always the first step.

Could home care work? A carer visits at home — from a few hours to full-time

Explore companionship care if isolation is the main concern

Check if home adaptations could extend independence

+4 more tasks

Stage 3

The Money Question

Understanding funding, benefits, and how care is paid for. This bit's complicated, but we'll help you through it.

Check if they qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare (it's fully funded — most families don't know!)

Apply for Attendance Allowance (up to £108.55/week, not means-tested)

Request a financial assessment from the council

+3 more tasks

Stage 4

Legal Essentials

Getting the paperwork sorted while they still can. This stuff takes time, so don't leave it too late.

Set up Lasting Power of Attorney — Health & Welfare (DO THIS NOW, not later)

Set up Lasting Power of Attorney — Property & Financial Affairs

Check if there's an existing Will — update if needed

+3 more tasks

Stage 5

Choosing a Home

Visiting homes and making the big decision. Trust your instincts — you know your loved one best.

Visit your shortlisted homes (try to go at mealtimes)

Check the CQC inspection report for each home

Ask about staff ratios and turnover

+5 more tasks

Stage 6

Moving In

The big transition. It's emotional for everyone, but you can make it easier.

Agree a trial period (most homes offer 4-6 weeks)

Personalise their room — photos, blanket, familiar objects

Set up a regular visiting routine

+4 more tasks

Stage 7

Ongoing Care

Settled in, but the journey continues. Staying involved and looking after yourself too.

Review the care plan regularly (at least every 6 months)

Attend residents' meetings if the home has them

Know how to raise concerns: speak to manager first, then CQC, then ombudsman

+3 more tasks

Everything you need in one place

Track Your Progress

Tick off tasks as you complete them. See how far you've come and what's next.

Keep Documents Safe

Track important paperwork. Never lose track of LPAs, wills, or assessments again.

Save Favourite Homes

Shortlist care homes, track visits, and keep notes in one place.

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