FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

^ Can I have visitors anytime?

Visitors are welcome at anytime and if anyone visits around meal times they are welcome to eat with their relative, they just have to let the kitchen know. 

^ Can I stay here until I die?

Yes, provided you could have stayed in your own home with the support of the community, that means with the support of your GP and the district nursing services. They will attend you here and we will provide the care, you will not need to leave the home unless a clinician says you require 24 hour a day specialised nursing care. Even if you become terminally ill there is provision within the home to provide certain equipment and trained staff. 

^ Can I keep my own Doctor?

You will need to ask him if the Home is within his accepted travelling distance. If he cannot keep you on his list we will register you with a Doctor of your choice from one of the practices whose GP’s visit us regularly. 

^ Are the people who will be looking after me trained in any way?

Yes. Several Care Managers are registered nurses, although this is not a requirement, others have many years experience in the health care sector. All staff undergo specialised training in key areas on an annual basis and many of the care staff have already achieved or are studying for NVQ qualifications or The Certificate in Care Practices.

^ Do I have to get up or go to bed at a certain time?

No, you can get up at anytime and have breakfast in your own room or in the dining room 
and similarly you can go to bed whenever you wish. If you need any assistance with dressing or undressing for instance you only need to call for a carer. 

^ Can I go out on my own or with friends and family?

Of course, but you need to let us know when you leave the building to assist us with health and safety regulations. 

^ Can I have a bath or shower when I want and will someone help me? 

You will be asked about your normal routine and the Care Manager will ensure your preferred time of day and the kind of help you require is booked into the care staff duties on the day(s) you agree. If you require no help at all you can use the bathrooms/shower rooms whenever you wish. 

^ Will my medical condition prevent me from coming into a residential home?

When you or a relative visits our Care Home we will take your medical history and the Care Manager will assess each person individually to ensure we can look after you properly. There would be very few situations with which the Home could not cope. We have a variety of equipment and aids and the full support of district and specialist nursing services. 

^ Is there a TV in the room? And would I be able to bring my own bed or furniture? 

There are TV aerial points in all bedrooms, we can provide some TV’s but most people prefer to bring their own. Likewise some people bring their own beds and we encourage you to bring personal items such as small items of furniture, wall pictures and photographs. Electrical goods must be approved and tested by us to comply with health and safety regulations. 

^ What is included in the fee? 

The fee covers all board and lodgings, laundry, entertainment and trips out. The only items you will need to pay for are some personal toiletries, newspapers, dry cleaning and the hairdresser. 

^ What about other services like hairdressing and chiropody?

Each Home has a visiting hairdresser, the NHS chiropodist, optician, dentist and audiologist visit regularly and we can arrange for services like aromatherapy or reflexology at special rates. 

^ What happens if I don’t like it?

Everyone comes into the Home on a trial basis, if you or ourselves feel the care we are providing is not catering for your needs or you are unhappy in any other way you are free to give notice. Normally the notice period on either side is 1 month however this can be negotiated in certain circumstances. 

^ Who owns the home?

The company is called Aegis Residential Care Homes Ltd., we are based in the North West and operate a number of residential care homes.

^ Can I use the telephone?

There is a pay phone for residents use and if you wish for your own private telephone line this can be arranged. 

^ What about religious worship?

Arrangements can be made to transport you to your chosen place of worship, alternatively you can attend the services held within the Home by visiting clergymen of all denominations. 

^ Will everyone have access to my personal details?

No. Any personal information you share with us will be kept on file in a secure office. Staff will need certain information to provide the best possible care but they are required to sign our policy on confidentiality. Information will not be shared with any other organisation without your express permission. You have a right of access to information regarding your care. 

^ What do I do if I think someone is being rude or unkind to me?

You must speak immediately to the Care Manger who is trained to tackle any complaint tactfully and thoroughly. We have strict rules of conduct and any lapse of these will not be tolerated.