FAQs

FAQs2025-04-24T13:45:17+00:00

General

Who decides when someone needs to go into care?2025-04-24T13:34:20+00:00

It can be the Local Authority or NHS; it can be an individual’s choice, should they wish to go into care.

Who regulates care homes in the UK?2025-04-24T13:15:57+00:00

The Care Quality Commission is the independent body responsible for monitoring, inspecting and rating care home services in England.

Can I change care settings if I am not happy?2025-04-24T13:15:24+00:00

Your Choice Barnet is committed to providing care and accommodation for as long as it is required. However, in certain exceptional circumstances Your Choice Barnet may not be able to continue to provide care:
• If the home is unable to provide the degree of care required, e.g. where long term medical care is needed.
• If you do not keep to the reasonable standards expected by Your Choice Barnet and a mutually satisfactory understanding cannot be reached.
• Failure to pay residential care fees to Your Choice Barnet.

How do you find a care home?2025-04-24T13:13:54+00:00

Personal recommendations are the primary pathway to finding a care home, but there is a wealth of information on websites such as Autumna, Lottie, Carehome.co.uk. You can also visit the Your Choice Barnet website.

Can you force someone to move into residential care?2025-04-24T13:13:11+00:00

You cannot be forced into a care home by family or friends. Can Social Services force someone into a care home is a question with a more complicated answer. Everybody’s situation is unique and is treated as such by Social Services. In some circumstances, a person can be required to move into a care home, either permanently or for a short period. 

When should someone move into a care home?2025-04-24T13:12:24+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

Is there a cap on care home fees in the UK?2025-04-24T13:11:04+00:00

There is no cap on care home fees in the UK at the moment.

What are the different types of care homes?2025-04-24T13:00:51+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

What Is Nursing Care In A Care Home?2025-04-24T12:56:54+00:00

Nursing care is typically needed when more complex medical tasks are required, eg administering injections, managing Ivs, and changing wound dressings, and requires the support of registred Nursing staff. We do not provide Nursing Care.

How will Your Choice Barnet support me with residential care?2025-04-24T12:56:22+00:00

From the initial enquiry when you will be invited to visit our home and have a detailed consultation with our Family Liaison Manager or another senior manager who will gather detailed information on the care needs, through to the assessment and final admission, Your Choice Barnet provides the support needed to make the decision on residential care. You will be given information on funding of care, and helped through the process with answers to any questions you may have. Once admitted our homes provide well-trained staff to look after all residents with care, diligence and empathy.

What is the visiting policy?2025-04-24T12:36:37+00:00

We have an open door visiting policy, but request that visitors respect mealtimes, and the needs of all our residents in visiting at suitable times (eg not early in the morning, or late at night).

Can I get help with paying care fees?2025-04-24T12:33:44+00:00

Dependent upon individual circumstances the Local Authority may help with funding care.

What activities are arranged for residents?2025-04-24T12:30:57+00:00

A range of activities are included in the daily schedule, from seated exercise, to board games, art and craft work, music interludes, inter-generational activities, outings, parties, celebrations of all holy days.

How do care homes work?2025-04-24T12:29:44+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

Is Your Choice Barnet part of Barnet Council?2025-04-24T12:28:51+00:00

Your Choice Barnet is part of The Barnet Group which is owned by Barnet Council.

How do I speak to someone at Your Choice Barnet?2025-04-24T12:27:37+00:00

Various telephone numbers are available for contacting Your Choice Barnet, but depends on what is required.

Are residents supervised in the kitchen?2025-04-24T12:26:53+00:00

Dependent on the resident’s physical and mental capacity they are able to use the kitchens unsupervised, but this is extremely rare as the majority of residents are no longer physically or mentally able to do so.

what are residential care homes2025-04-24T12:18:41+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

what are care homes in uk2025-04-24T12:18:00+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

How do care homes work?2025-04-24T12:17:18+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

What is the difference between a care home and residential home2025-04-24T12:10:10+00:00
What is dementia care?2025-04-24T12:09:24+00:00

Dementia care refers to the specialized support and treatment provided to individuals with dementia, which is a term for a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities.

What is a residential care home?2025-04-24T12:08:38+00:00

A residential care home is a specialised facility that provides round-the-clock care and support for individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). These homes are intended for older adults who need help with day-to-day living but do not necessarily need the level of care offered in a hospital.

How do I know when someone needs to go into care?2025-04-24T12:07:26+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

Who decides when someone needs to go into care?2025-04-24T12:05:41+00:00

It can be the Local Authority or NHS; it can be the individual’s choice

Residential

How do you know if a care home is good?2025-04-24T13:14:49+00:00

Personal recommendations are the primary pathway to finding a care home, but there is a wealth of information on websites such as Autumna, Lottie, Carehome.co.uk. You can also visit the Your Choice Barnet website.

What is a care home?2025-04-24T13:00:15+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

How many visitors may I have at any one time?2025-04-24T12:59:10+00:00

We try to ensure that our residents can enjoy visits from one or more family or friends at a time, dependent upon the reason for a visit, but request it be borne in mind that too many visitors at one time may prove overwhelming for that specific resident, or other residents in our homes.

What Does A Nursing Care Plan For Dementia Involve?2025-04-24T12:58:27+00:00

We do not provide Nursing Care and this information would best be provided by a specialist Nursing Home.

Do residents seem happy and content?2025-04-24T12:55:11+00:00

Yes, the residents are happy and content, although there may be times when specific residents express negative emotions.

Are residents able to bring pets with them?2025-04-24T12:54:35+00:00

We welcome pets, but this is at the discretion of the manager, and very much dependent upon needs/preferences of other residents, some of whom may be allergic to cats/dogs.

Can I keep my own doctor?2025-04-24T12:53:49+00:00

We have one GP surgery assigned to take care of the residents in our homes, but in special circumstances it may be possible to keep the current GP, dependent on location, and that GP’s own practice protocols.

Is the environment friendly and inviting?2025-04-24T12:53:03+00:00

The environment in our homes is one of community inclusion and we welcome family and friends to become part of our community as much as they can.

Are members of staff appropriately trained?2025-04-24T12:52:29+00:00

Staff receive a wide range of training to ensure they are capable of looking after people with a wide range of needs, including Dementia Care, Moving & Handling, Medication, Infection Prevention and Control, Safeguarding, The Mental Capacity Act & DOLs. Training courses also include: GDPR, Equality & Inclusion, Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking, amongst others.

What kind of food is served and are special dietary needs catered for?2025-04-24T12:51:36+00:00

All meals are prepared from scratch on site, and menus are adapted to suit changing seasons and the needs of our residents, including traditional food at Dell Field Court and Meadowside to suit a European diet, while at Dell Field Court there is the added benefit of an Asian kitchen that provides delivious vegetarian meals which can be chosen by all our residents.

Will visitors be permitted to join residents for meals or outings?2025-04-24T12:51:04+00:00

Yes, we encourage family and friends to visit and join in with meals and outings. We just need notice.

How flexible are the residents’ routines – i.e., are there set mealtimes, bedtimes and visiting hours?2025-04-24T12:50:29+00:00

We do have set mealtimes, but these can be flexible, dependent upon the resident’s needs. Waking, bedtime and visiting hours are also dependent on resident’s needs, but are flexible.

What additional services are available, such as hairdressing and physiotherapy?2025-04-24T12:49:45+00:00

See above. Although we don’t provide physiotherapy unless the resident is prescribed this by the OH, or can pay for private Physio.

What activities and entertainment do you provide?2025-04-24T12:48:35+00:00

Yes, we always carry out our own assessments to ensure we can fully meet the resident’s care needs.

Are residents encouraged to retain their independence?2025-04-24T12:47:46+00:00

We encourage all residents to maintain their independence by supporting them as much as they need, but allowing them to make decisions for themselves depending on their capacity for doing so.

Do the bedrooms include a fire alarm and nurse call system?2025-04-24T12:44:26+00:00

Yes, a new nurse call system is in operation as are fire alarms, and a new sprinkler system.

Are residents permitted to bring belongings from home to personalise their rooms?2025-04-24T12:43:50+00:00

Yes, we positively encourage residents to bring in personal items, and possibly some furniture items with permission from the manager.

Do the bedrooms have ensuite facilities?2025-04-24T12:42:55+00:00

Yes, be offer bedrooms and some ensuite facilities in our homes.

Are there communal lounges as well as quiet areas?2025-04-24T12:41:48+00:00

Yes, we offer communal lounges and some quiet areas in our homes.

Are special needs (i.e. hearing or sight impairment) catered for?2025-04-24T12:41:02+00:00

Dependent upon our assessments which take into consideration all care needs of the individual, we can manage those with hearing or sight impairment, together with some learning disability.

Is it fully wheelchair accessible?2025-04-24T12:40:24+00:00

Yes, our homes are fully wheelchair accessible.

Is the home equipped to handle a variety of needs?2025-04-24T12:39:46+00:00

The care homes manage a wide range of needs, but all potential residents are assessed to ensure what those needs are and that we are confident, and capable of being able to meet those needs.

What is included in the cost of your fees?2025-04-24T12:39:03+00:00

The weekly fee covers your care and accommodation including the supply and use of utilities, all meals, and snacks, together with limited insurance cover of £500 per individual for personal possessions. Residents are advised to arrange their own insurance for items which fall outside this cover. It does not include any other services, for example; clothes, toiletries, newspapers, hairdressing or the cost of outings. If your representatives or relatives are unable to accompany, you to hospital appointments we can arrange your transport and escort you. This will be charged at cost for the transport plus an agreed hourly rate for the member of staff to escort you.

How can I arrange a visit to one of the care homes?2025-04-24T12:37:37+00:00

Call Dell Field Court on 020 8099 9424 or Meadowside on 020 8099 9425. It is also possible to just pop in to visit in passing if this is the best for you.

What is a care plan?2025-04-24T12:35:13+00:00

A Care Plan is a document that outlines a person’s specific health and social care needs. It guides health care professionals in delivering the care by descriing the individual’s medical history, the expected outcomes, and the care and support to be provided. It also serves as a roadmap for care and support, and is frequently updated to reflect the changing care needs of the individual.

How do I know is a care home provides good care?2025-04-24T12:34:23+00:00

Check out personal recommendations, testimonials, and also check the CQC website for their ratings. Also visit the care home and see for yourself.

Will you assess whether a resident is suitable for a care home?2025-04-24T12:30:20+00:00

Yes, we always carry out our own assessments to ensure we can fully meet the resident’s care needs.

Are residents allowed to cook their own food?2025-04-24T12:26:13+00:00

We have kitchens where residents can make themselves a cup of tea/coffee, but no cooking is carried out by residents.

Are vegan, vegetarian and other dietary requirements considered for residents?2025-04-24T12:25:39+00:00

We try and ensure that all dietary requirements are met, but may have some difficulty with eg: Strict Kosher diet – our kitchens are not Kosher.

Do the meals contain nutritional value?2025-04-24T12:24:51+00:00

We endeavour to ensure that all residents are being fed nutritionally appropriate food.

Can I have food and drink delivered to my room?2025-04-24T12:24:13+00:00

In discussion with the manager, it is possible for residents to eat in their rooms, although we encourage residents to participate in communal meals. If someone wants to order food from outside to be delivered, this must be in agreement with the Manager.

What facilities are available at the care home for residents?2025-04-24T12:23:28+00:00

Private ensuite bedrooms; communal lounges, quiet gardens, hairdressing salon, podiatry, eye tests, dental checks, regular GP support, sensory room at Meadowside;

Is there visitor parking?2025-04-24T12:22:02+00:00

Limited visitor parking is available at our homes. Street parking at Dell Field Court is usually available in local roads. Some street parking at Meadowside is available, but normally full, and there are restrictions for much of the street parking between 2-3pm

who are residential care homes for2025-04-24T12:19:58+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision

Financial

Will I keep my pension in a care home?2025-04-24T13:10:28+00:00

A big concern for family members of care home residents, particularly the next of kin, is that they will be legally obliged to pay their loved one’s care home fees if their money runs out. This is not the case; unless you have signed a contract agreeing to pay the fees you are not financially responsible. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

Who is responsible for care home fees after death?2025-04-24T13:09:45+00:00

A big concern for family members of care home residents, particularly the next of kin, is that they will be legally obliged to pay their loved one’s care home fees if their money runs out. This is not the case; unless you have signed a contract agreeing to pay the fees you are not financially responsible. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

What happens if my money runs out in a care home?2025-04-24T13:09:13+00:00

A big concern for family members of care home residents, particularly the next of kin, is that they will be legally obliged to pay their loved one’s care home fees if their money runs out. This is not the case; unless you have signed a contract agreeing to pay the fees you are not financially responsible. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

Do relatives have to pay for care homes?2025-04-24T13:08:32+00:00

A big concern for family members of care home residents, particularly the next of kin, is that they will be legally obliged to pay their loved one’s care home fees if their money runs out. This is not the case; unless you have signed a contract agreeing to pay the fees you are not financially responsible. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

Do I have to sell my home to pay for residential care?2025-04-24T13:07:39+00:00

This depends on personal circumstances, and can be complicated. Someone with savings below £23,250 and no other savings or assets should be eligible for support from the Local Authority – you will need to apply to the LA for a Care Needs Assessment and a Financial Assessment. Someone with savings over £23,250 and other assets is not eligible for financial support. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

Will the local authority pay my care home fees?2025-04-24T13:06:48+00:00

This depends on personal circumstances, and can be complicated. Someone with savings below £23,250 and no other savings or assets should be eligible for support from the Local Authority – you will need to apply to the LA for a Care Needs Assessment and a Financial Assessment. Someone with savings over £23,250 and other assets is not eligible for financial support. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

Does the NHS pay care home fees?2025-04-24T13:05:06+00:00

This depends on personal circumstances, and can be complicated. Someone with savings below £23,250 and no other savings or assets should be eligible for support from the Local Authority – you will need to apply to the LA for a Care Needs Assessment and a Financial Assessment. Someone with savings over £23,250 and other assets is not eligible for financial support. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

Can I get help with paying care home fees?2025-04-24T13:04:28+00:00

This depends on personal circumstances, and can be complicated. Someone with savings below £23,250 and no other savings or assets should be eligible for support from the Local Authority – you will need to apply to the LA for a Care Needs Assessment and a Financial Assessment. Someone with savings over £23,250 and other assets is not eligible for financial support. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

Who pays for care home fees?2025-04-24T13:03:51+00:00

This depends on personal circumstances, and can be complicated. Someone with savings below £23,250 and no other savings or assets should be eligible for support from the Local Authority – you will need to apply to the LA for a Care Needs Assessment and a Financial Assessment. Someone with savings over £23,250 and other assets is not eligible for financial support. Please see Age UK website for more detailed information.

How much does it cost to live in a care home?2025-04-24T13:03:17+00:00

From £1,640 pw to £1,925 pw permanent; £1,885 pw to £2,210 pw respite

What is the difference between a residential care home and a nursing home?2025-04-24T13:02:09+00:00

If they cannot be cared for fully at home then investigate the possibilities available that would support them better and use GP and other professionals to help make decision. From the initial enquiry when you will be invited to visit our home and have a detailed consultation with our Family Liaison Manager or another senior manager who will gather detailed information on the care needs, through to the assessment and final admission, Your Choice Barnet provides the support needed to make the decision on residential care. You will be given information on funding of care, and helped through the process with answers to any questions you may have. Once admitted our homes provide well-trained staff to look after all residents with care, diligence and empathy.

What are the facilities like?2025-04-24T12:38:29+00:00

Recently refurbished, our care homes offer the highest standards of living while keeping residents safe and secure. Our homes come fully-furnished with en-suite bathrooms and upgraded communication facilities that include movement sensors and a new nurse call system.

How do I pay for a care home?2025-04-24T12:32:43+00:00

Payment of fees can be made from savings, insurance policies, sale of a property, or any other assets, dependent upon assessment that the fees can be paid for a minimum of two years. Evidence of assets must be provided.

Does the NHS pay for care homes?2025-04-24T12:32:05+00:00

Dependent upon individual circumstances, there may be some financial support from the NHS towards care, but the NHS does not generally pay for care homes.

What are the different types of care homes offered?2025-04-24T12:31:32+00:00

Our care homes provide person centred care for older people, over 65 years of age, who have mobility issues, are living with dementia, or simply need a helping hand from time to time. We do not provide Nursing Care.

How much are care homes in London?2025-04-24T12:14:26+00:00

Our care fees are as above, but in London will be wide ranging, dependent upon the provider, essentially anything from: approx £1,200 pw upwards of £3,000 pw.

Can care homes take your pension?2025-04-24T12:13:49+00:00

The care home will not ‘take your pension’, although any income you have must be taken into consideration when working out whether or not you can afford to self-fund your care. However, if you are applying for Local Authority funding of care, your pension will be taken into consideration during the Financial Assessment which needs to be completed by the Local Authority in order to assess what income you have, and if any contribution will need to be made to the cost of care.

Are there any hidden fees?2025-04-24T12:13:02+00:00

Additional costs may include: hairdressing, podiatry, toiletries, newspapers, outings and other items for the resident’s personal use. We may also make a charge for chaperones for hospital visits/apointments, and the cost of transport If representatives or relatives are unable to accompany residents to hospital appointments we can arrange transport and an escort. This will be charged at cost for the transport plus an agreed hourly rate for the member of staff to escort.

Are all rooms priced at the same rate?2025-04-24T12:11:31+00:00

We do not charge different rates for different rooms. The weekly care fee is based on ‘dependency levels’ (care needs).

Are next of kin responsible for care home fees?2025-04-24T12:04:12+00:00

Depends on individual legal arrangements (does anyone hold LPA), but most peopld are funded by their own savings, sale of property, insurance policies

What is the average cost of a care home per week?2025-04-24T12:03:16+00:00

From £1,640 pw to £1,925 pw permanent; £1,885 pw to £2,210 pw respite

What are the fees for a care home?2025-04-24T12:02:28+00:00

From £1,640 pw to £1,925 pw permanent; £1,885 pw to £2,210 pw respite

How much does a care home cost?2025-04-24T11:30:49+00:00

From £1,640 pw to £1,925 pw permanent; £1,885 pw to £2,210 pw respite

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