Healthwatch County Durham Signposting Directory by Healthcare Publications

YOUR FREE GUIDE TO HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE 2016/17

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Your local spotlight on Health & Social Care in County Durham

www.healthwatchcountydurham.co.uk

County Durham

Save time, get the treatment you need! Go straight to your community pharmacy

Any patient exempt from prescription charges and registered with a GP within the North Durham CCG North Durham Clinical Commissioning Group

Durham Dales, Easington and SedgeďŹ eld Clinical Commissioning Group

CONTENTS Healthwatch County Durham - Who We Are What We Do Healthwatch County Durham - Together We Can Make a Difference Get Involved Understanding NHS Services Your Questions Answered Check4Life GPs & GP Surgeries in Durham Dales GPs & GP Surgeries in Durham North Pharmacies in in Durham Dales Pharmacies in in Durham North Dentists in Durham Dales Dentists in Durham North Opticians in Durham Dales Opticians in Durham North Your Right to Social Care & Support What is Social Care? Recognising Mental Health & Support Useful Number for Support in Your Area Support for Carers Safety Advice to Help Independent Living Living with a Disability Creating Dementia Friendly Communities Planning for your Future Care Needs Choosing the Right Home Care Agency Choosing the Right Care Home Domiciliary, Nursing & Residential Homes in Durham Dales Domiciliary, Nursing & Residential Homes in Durham North

1 2 3 4 5-8 9 - 10 11 - 12 13 14 15 - 16 17 - 18 19 20 21 22 23 - 24 25 - 26 27 - 28 29 - 30 31 33 34 35 - 36 37 - 38 39 40 41 - 42 43 - 44

Disclaimer This Directory has been compiled to signpost primary health and social care providers throughout Durham Dales and Durham North. Whilst we have taken every care in compiling this publication, the publishers and promoters cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies. All listings are supplied via the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and NHS Choices. Neither Healthwatch County Durham nor Healthcare Publications can be held responsible for any errors or omissions. All signposting services are up to date as of June 2016. This Directory contains advertising from businesses who are offered the opportunity to reach potential customers through inclusion. However, any information provided by a company or organisation does not carry endorsement or approval of any product or service by Healthwatch County Durham or Healthcare Publications.

Healthcare Publications Signposting Health & Social Care in Partnership with your Local Healthwatch

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HEALTHWATCH COUNTY DURHAM - WHO WE ARE

Healthwatch County Durham – who we are and what we do Healthwatch is the independent, statutory consumer champion for users of health and social care services in County Durham. Our job is to promote the consumer interest for everyone who uses health and social care services in the county. Healthwatch County Durham is part of a network of 148 local Healthwatch organisations. Healthwatch England has a national perspective, fed by local insight gathered by local Healthwatch organisations.

Groups we have visited include:

We Listen

• Wheatley Hill Women’s Group

We listen to patients and users of health and social care services, along with their family members or carers to find out what they think of the services they receive.

• Durham Deafened Support

Between April 2014 and March 2015 we: • engaged with 3,277 service users • established a series of drop-in sessions at hospitals, community hospitals, Leisure Centres and Citizens Advice Bureaux to listen to your feedback We organise a range of activities to ensure that we reach all corners of the County Durham community. We try to reach those people usually least heard, rather than only listening to those who shout the loudest!

During 2014-15 we visited 54 groups and attended 52 engagement events.

• Durham Lip Speaking Group • Blind Life County Durham • Moving on (homeless charity) • People’s Parliament (for learning impaired representatives) • North East Education Centre for Children with Down Syndrome • LGBT group at DISC (Developing Initiatives Supporting Communities) • Learning Disabilities Carers Forum • Tin Arts (learning disability day service)

HEALTHWATCH COUNTY DURHAM - WHAT WE DO

The range of topics is varied and each caller is important to us! Some sample conversations we’ve had recently… You asked: “Where can I find a trainer to teach armchair aerobics?” Our engagement leader sourced a trainer and there are now sessions successfully being delivered.

We Advise We advise people how to get the best health and social care for themselves and their family. We provide help and information about all aspects of health and social care provided in County Durham. We can signpost people to what’s available, help them to make good choices and offer help and support if they experience any problems. We have established a Freephone number 0808 801 0384, and it’s there waiting for your call!

You asked: “How can I appeal against a funding decision for a surgical procedure?” We contacted North East Commissioning Services to clarify the policy and advised our caller how to appeal against this decision. You asked: “How can I get my dentures repaired when I’m not registered at a dentist and my local dentist isn’t taking NHS patients?” We contacted NHS England who contacted the service user’s proposed dentist on our behalf. Following our action the dental practice confirmed that they were taking new patients. Healthwatch County Durham contacted the client and made him aware of our findings. The client was very happy that we found him a dentist which was taking on new patients and they now have dentures that look like new!

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

What we heard We received several negative comments from patients who had recently attended the eye clinic at Bishop Auckland Ophthalmology Department. There were some common themes in the comments that concerned us, including: poor staff attitude, poor patient experience, waiting area issues and waiting times.

What we did We Speak Up We make sure that consumers’ views are heard by those who provide health and social care. Wherever possible we try to work in partnership with providers to influence how they make improvements.

Working with others to improve local services We have worked closely with neighbouring local Healthwatch to influence commissioning for one of our priority groups; older people and those with dementia. By working in partnership with Healthwatch Darlington and by representing the views of people who use dementia services, their feedback is reflected in the Dementia Strategy and the work on implementing that strategy.

We decided to take action and carried out an ‘Enter and View’ visit at the eye clinic with our team of volunteers who are trained as ‘Authorised Representatives’.

What we found At the visit our volunteers spoke to patients and staff and discovered that; • Patients were generally happy with the service they received from the staff at the clinic. • The waiting room appeared adequate apart from the fact that the environment was too hot, TVs were not switched on, there was a lack of reading material and no drinking water available.

What we did

• Patients told us that the waiting room is usually very crowded and sometimes people have to stand as there are aren’t enough chairs.

You told us that carers of people with dementia felt that there was not enough information given to them on diagnosis and that services needed to be more person-centred.

Treatment clinics for laser treatment and surgery tended to cause more problems than the outpatient clinics due to arrival times and the length of time waiting around to be seen.

We have continued to work in partnership with a multi-agency team including Carers, Commissioners, Local Authorities and the voluntary sector to ensure our recommendations are included in the future commissioning of services for people with dementia in County Durham and we will continue to do so.

Then what

As a last resort we can invoke our statutory powers meaning that providers have a legal duty to listen to Healthwatch and to take heed of the evidence we present to them.

Following the visit recommendations were made to the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and the Eye Clinic staff and many of our recommendations have been implemented which included upgrading of public toilets, monitoring the temperature, more accessible signage and improving the format of how pre-op information is provided to patients.

Tell us your experience, we’re listening and together we can make a difference

GET INVOLVED

Mystery Service User To gather information about health and social care services.

Friends Our Friends receive regular updates, news and E-Bulletins and automatically receive invitations to complete surveys or input to consultations.

Contact Us: Please get in touch for further information by using the contact details below: Office telephone: 01325 375 960 Reg - One or our Authorised Representatives

We couldn’t offer this range of activities without our volunteers. We rely on volunteers to strengthen the work that we do and to reach as many people in the community as we can. We value any time that volunteers can spare and we have developed different ways that volunteers can get involved with Healthwatch.

Write to us at: The Work Place Heighington Lane, Aycliffe Business Park Newton Aycliffe, Co Durham DL5 6AH Email us at: info@healthwatchcountydurham.co.uk Visit our website: www.healthwatchcountydurham.co.uk

Volunteers There are six different volunteer roles within Healthwatch County Durham:

Administrative Assistant To support with office-based administrative tasks

Engagement Volunteer To gather the views of health and social care service users

Enter & View Authorised Representative To conduct formal Enter and View visits to health and social care services to observe the service being provided and speak to service users.

Healthwatcher To support Healthwatch County Durham by hosting a ‘comments box’ and encouraging members of the public to complete comment cards.

Meeting representative

Our very first Healthwatchers are Christine and Ashley from Leonard’s Café in Durham City Centre

To represent Healthwatch at meetings, reporting on recent activity and reporting back to Healthwatch on relevant issues or opportunities.

Understanding NHS services Hospital treatment is free if you are ordinarily resident in the UK. If you are visiting England, or recently moved to England, please look up the relevant information about accessing the NHS as charges may occur. The services and treatments listed below are free to all in NHS hospitals. • accident and emergency services – but not emergency treatment once you’ve been admitted to hospital • family planning services – but not termination of pregnancy or infertility treatment • treatment for most infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) • treatment required for a physical or mental condition caused by torture, female genital mutilation, domestic violence or sexual violence – this does not apply if you have come to England to seek this treatment

• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit • Universal Credit and meet the criteria If you’re entitled to or named on: •

a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate – if you don’t have a certificate, you can show your award notice; you qualify if you get Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits with a disability element (or both) and have income for tax credit purposes of £15,276 or less

• a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2) For everyone else, Prescription costs apply:

GP Services

Prescription – £8.40 per item

You have the legal right to choose a GP practice that best suits your needs. Try comparing GP practices according to facilities, services, access and performance before you decide. Ask friends, relatives and others you trust for their thoughts and recommendations.

12 Month Prepayment Certificate (PPC) – £104.00

NHS Pharmacy Services You can get free NHS prescriptions if, at the time the prescription is dispensed, you: • are 60 or over • are under 16 • are 16-18 and in full-time education • are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate (MatEx) • have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx) • have a continuing physical disability that prevents you from going out without help from another person and have a valid MedEx • hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability • are an NHS inpatient •

You are also entitled to free prescriptions if you or your partner (including civil partner) receive, or you’re under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone receiving:

• Income Support • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, 5

3 Month PPC – £29.10

NHS Dental Services The NHS will provide any treatment that you need to keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy and free of pain. The NHS will not provide cosmetic treatment options such as teeth whitening, which you may want to make your teeth more attractive but which are not clinically necessary. Even where treatment is clinically necessary the dentist will offer you a treatment option that is clinically appropriate. If you choose to have alternative treatment options then you will have to pay privately for these You do not have to pay for NHS dental treatment if, when the treatment starts, you are: • aged under 18 • under 19 and receiving full-time education • pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months • staying in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist • an NHS hospital dental service outpatient (however, you may have to pay for your dentures or bridges).

You do not have to pay if, during the course of treatment, you or your partner, receive: • Income Support • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance • Pension Credit guarantee credit • Universal Credit and meet the criteria or • you are named on or entitled to a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate – if you don’t have a certificate, you can show your award notice; you qualify if you get Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits with a disability element (or both) and have income for tax credit purposes of £15,276 or less • you are named on a valid HC2 certificate You will be asked to show your dentist written proof that you do not have to pay for all or part of your NHS treatment. You will also be asked to sign a form to confirm that you do not have to pay. For everyone else:

NHS Eye Test You qualify for a free NHS-funded sight test if: • you’re aged under 16 • you’re aged 16, 17 or 18 and are in full-time education • you’re aged 60 or over • you’re registered as partially sighted (sight impaired) or blind (severely sight impaired) • you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma • you’re 40 or over, and your mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter has been diagnosed with glaucoma • you’ve been advised by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) that you’re at risk of glaucoma • you’re a prisoner on leave from prison • you’re eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – your optometrist (optician) can advise you about your entitlement Proving your entitlement to a free NHS eye test: When you go for your sight test, tell your ophthalmic practitioner that you’re entitled to a free NHS sight test. They will give you a form called GOS1 to fill in and sign.

Emergency dental treatment – £19.70 This covers emergency care in a primary care NHS dental practice such as pain relief or a temporary filling

What if I’m not entitled to a free NHS eye test?

Band 1 course of treatment – £19.70 This covers an examination, diagnosis (including X-rays), advice on how to prevent future problems, a scale and polish if clinically needed, and preventative care such as the application of fluoride varnish or fissure sealant if appropriate.

The cost of private sight tests varies, so it’s advisable to shop around.

Band 2 course of treatment – £53.90 This covers everything listed in Band 1 above, plus any further treatment such as fillings, root canal work or removal of teeth but not more complex items covered by Band 3. Band 3 course of treatment – £233.70 This covers everything listed in Bands 1 and 2 above, plus crowns, dentures, bridges and other laboratory work.

If you don’t qualify for a free NHS sight test, you will have to pay for a private sight test.

Sexual Health Services Sexual health services are free and available to everyone regardless of sex, age, ethnic origin and sexual orientation. Who offers sexual health services and advice? • GPs • Contraception Clinics (also known as family planning clinics) • Sexual Health Clinics • Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing Clinics • Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) Clinics • Pharmacies • Sexual Assault Referral Centres • Young People’s Services If you are not sure which services is right for you, call NHS 111 who will be able to advice you

Understanding NHS services NHS Continuing Healthcare NHS continuing healthcare is the name given to a package of care that is arranged and funded solely by the NHS for individuals who are not in hospital and have been assessed as having a “primary health need” If you are eligible, you can receive NHS continuing healthcare in a variety of settings, for example: •

In your own home – the NHS will pay for healthcare, such as services from a community nurse or specialist therapist, and personal care, such as help with bathing, dressing and laundry

• In a care home – as well as healthcare and personal care, the NHS will pay for your care home fees, including board and accommodation NHS continuing healthcare is free, unlike social and community care services provided by local authorities. If you have a disability or if you’ve been diagnosed with a long-term illness or condition, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be eligible for NHS continuing healthcare

NHS Funded Nursing Care NHS-funded nursing care is care provided by a registered nurse for people who live in a care home. The NHS will pay a flat rate contribution directly to the care home towards the cost of this registered nursing care. You may be eligible for NHS funded nursing care if: • you are not eligible for NHS continuing healthcare but have been assessed as needing care from a registered nurse • you live in a care home registered to provide nursing care

NHS Personal Health Budgets Adults eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare and children in receipt of continuing care have had a right to have a personal health budget since October 2014. Personal health budgets are one way to give people with long term health conditions and disabilities more choice and control over the money spent on meeting their health and wellbeing needs. A personal health budget is an amount of money to support the identified healthcare and wellbeing needs of an individual, which is planned and agreed between the individual, or their representative, and the local clinical commissioning group (CCG). It isn’t new money, but a different way of spending health funding to meet the needs of a individual. Personal health budgets for people with learning disabilities Across England the NHS has already begun to offer personal health budgets and joint health and social care budgets to people with learning disabilities who have complex health needs or challenging behaviour. Personal health budgets offer a real opportunity to enable people with learning disabilities to live in their own homes or with their families, rather than in institutions. 7

Since April 2015, all CCGs in England have been asked to develop plans for a major expansion of personal health budgets, for people with learning disabilities .

GP Referrals Access to NHS specialist treatment is via your GP and is based on need.You will need to see your GP if you wish to be referred to a specialist in a particular field If you ask your GP to refer you to a specialist, they will probably suggest that you try various tests or treatment options first to see whether your condition improves. You cannot usually self-refer to an NHS specialist, except when accessing sexual health clinics or treatment in an accident and emergency (A&E) department. A specialist will only see you with a referral letter from your GP. The letter will give the specialist essential background information. If you wish to see a private specialist, you are still advised to get a referral letter from your GP. However, if you see a private specialist without a GP referral, your GP is not obliged to accept the specialist’s recommendations.

NHS Waiting Times Emergency treatment If you have chest pains and heart disease is suspected, you should be seen at a specialist (or rapid access) chest pain clinic within two weeks of being referred. Cancer When cancer is suspected, you have the right to be seen by a specialist within two weeks from your referral date. Most people referred like this don’t have cancer, but it’s important to see a specialist as soon as possible, so that a cancer diagnosis can be confirmed or excluded. Non-emergency treatment For non-urgent matters, you have the right to start treatment within 18 weeks from the date your GP, dentist or other healthcare professional refers you (unless you want to wait longer or waiting longer is clinically right for you). As well as deciding what health services a local community needs and providing funding for them, your local clinical commissioning group (CCG) is responsible for deciding whether or not which treatments are available on the NHS. If you think that you would benefit from a certain treatment, contact your GP or local CCG to check if it’s available on the NHS in your area. NHS Durham Dales Easington & Sedgefield CCG www.durhamdaleseasingtonsedgefieldccg.nhs.uk NHS North Durham CCG www.northdurhamccg.nhs.uk

Better health for the people of North Durham NHS North Durham CCG is made up of 31 local GP practices and we represent about 250,000 local people across Chester-le-Street, Derwentside and Durham. We are a commissioning organisation, responsible for planning and buying a wide range of health care services across the North Durham area.

The CCG’s public membership scheme, My NHS, involves local people in developing and improving local health services. The scheme is free and easy to join. The aim is to get local people give their views on how the CCG plans and provides its services, how those services can be changed when needed and get involved in decisions that may affect how those services operate.

To find out more about getting involved in our work, please visit our website at

www.northdurhamccg.nhs.uk

In return members will receive regular updates about the work of the CCG, receive invitations to events and have the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns about local health care provision.

We believe that we can make the greatest improvements by concentrating on seven areas: • Unplanned emergency care, • Caring for people who are frail and elderly, • Caring for people when they are dying, • Transforming primary care, • Caring for people with mental health issues, • Caring for people with learning disabilities, • Caring for people living with diabetes.

Working together for excellent health for the local communities

Who we are ... NHS Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) was authorised as a statutory body in February 2013. We are made up 40 member GP practices and serve a population of around 272,000 spread across a large and diverse geographical area. Clinical commissioning means that your local GPs are using their knowledge about healthcare to develop services that meet your needs.

Get involved ... We are committed to involving local people in setting healthcare priorities and making decisions about healthcare services. There are a number of ways you can get involved and have your say, via our patient reference groups (contact your practice for more information), public events, governing body meetings and consultations.

Join My NHS... The NHS belongs to us all If you’re interested in NHS Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield CCG and would like to get involved in the work we do to develop and improve local health services, then join MY NHS. To join My NHS simply register online at https://secure.membra.co.uk/

MyNHSApplicationForm/ or call 01642 745 046

Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield CCG | Sedgefield Community Hospital | Salters Lane | Sedgefield | TS21 3EE

Tel: 0191 371 3222 | Email: ddesccg.enquiries@nhs.net Please visit our website for more information: www.durhamdaleseasingtonsedgefieldccg.nhs.uk 8

Your questions answered Can I Get Cosmetic Surgery on the NHS? In rare cases, cosmetic surgery may be provided on the NHS if it’s required to protect a person’s health. For example, the NHS might pay for: • a breast reduction operation if the weight of a woman’s breasts are causing her back problems • nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) if someone has breathing problems • pinnaplasty (in under 16-year-olds), which is surgical correction of ears that stick out To qualify for surgery on the NHS, you must meet specific guidelines set out by your local clinical commissioning group (CCG)

In general, moles are not removed for cosmetic reasons. If you wish to have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons, then you would almost always need to have it removed privately and will be charged a fee

Which Travel Vaccinations are Free? Vaccinations for the following conditions are usually available free on the NHS:

Can I Get Laser Eye Surgery on the NHS?

• Cholera

Laser surgery is available on the NHS for eye conditions that, without treatment, can lead to loss of vision. However, it’s not available for conditions that can be treated successfully in other ways, such as refractive (focusing) errors.

• Diphtheria, polio and tetanus booster

To qualify for surgery on the NHS, you must meet specific guidelines set out by your local clinical commissioning group (CCG)

These vaccines protect against diseases which are considered to be the greatest risk to public health if they were brought into the country.

• Hepatitis A some combined vaccines, such as combined hepatitis A and B • Typhoid

Can I Get a Paternity Test on the NHS?

NHS Stop Smoking Services

No. Paternity tests aren’t available on the NHS.

Local stop smoking services are free Your GP can refer you, or call the free Smokefree National Helpline on 0300 123 1044 to make an appointment with an adviser.

Can I See a Chiropractor on the NHS? Chiropractic treatment is considered to be a complementary therapy, which means that it is not usually available on the NHS. Most people who have chiropractic treatment pay privately to see a chiropractor. You do not need to see your GP or get a referral letter before arranging an appointment for private treatment.

Can I Get Chiropody or Podiatry on the NHS? In most areas of the UK, chiropody is available on the NHS free of charge. If your condition is unlikely to affect your health or mobility, you may not be eligible for NHS treatment

Can I See an Osteopath on the NHS? Osteopathy is a type of complementary therapy. Like all complementary therapies, osteopathy is not available on the NHS

Can I Get My Tattoo Removed on the NHS? Tattoo removal is rarely available on the NHS Treatment to remove tattoos is available at private clinics. You will have to pay for private treatment

Can I Get a Mole Removed on the NHS? It depends. The most important reason for having a mole removed is to rule out any cancerous changes.

Your GP will refer you to a dermatologist (skin specialist) if they have concerns that your mole has any abnormal cells. If the dermatologist thinks your mole could have any abnormal or cancerous cells, they will remove the mole (in a procedure known as a biopsy) to check it under the microscope.

Can I Get Free Liposuction on the NHS? As liposuction is usually a cosmetic procedure (used to improve your appearance), it is not normally available on the NHS. However, liposuction may be used by the NHS as reconstructive surgery to treat certain conditions. These conditions include: • Lymphoedema – a condition that causes excess fluid and chronic swelling in many parts of the body • Lipodystrophy Syndrome – where fat is gained in one area of the body and lost from another (a side effect of medicines that are sometimes used to treat HIV) • Lipoedema – a chronic condition that typically causes an abnormal build-up of fat cells in the legs, thighs and buttocks • Gynaecomastia – where boys’ and men’s breasts swell and become larger than normal, often due to a hormone imbalance • Breast Cancer – a surgeon may use your own body tissue, including body fat, to construct a new breast after a mastectomy

Can I get Acupuncture from the NHS?

Can I Get a Wig on the NHS?

Acupuncture is sometimes available on the NHS, most often from GPs or physiotherapists, although access is limited.

Wigs are available from the NHS. However, patients will be charged for them, unless they qualify for help with charges.

Most acupuncture patients pay for private treatment. The cost of acupuncture varies widely between practitioners. Initial sessions usually cost between £35 and £60, and further sessions between £30 and £50.

Can I Access my Health Records

Can I Get a Hearing Aid on the NHS? NHS hearing aids and new batteries are free. If you lose your hearing aid or damage it, you may be asked to pay towards the cost of repairing or replacing it. Getting a Hearing Aid Privately In the UK, all hearing aid dispensers must be registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).If you decide to buy a hearing aid privately, make sure you consult a qualified registered hearing aid dispenser. They should have the letters RHAD (Registered Hearing Aid Dispenser) after their name.

Under the Data Protection Act 1998, you have a legal right to apply for access to health information held about you. This includes your NHS or private health records held by a GP, optician , dentist, or by a hospital. A health record contains information about your mental and physical health recorded by a healthcare professional as part of your care. If you want to see your health records, you don’t have to give a reason. Depending on which health records you want to see, submit your request in writing or by email to Your GP Surgery, Your Optician, Your Dentist or Your hospital trust’s health records manager or patient services manager.

GPs & GP Surgeries - Durham Dales

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Pharmacies - Durham Dales

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NHS Choices provides an award-winning, comprehensive health information service with thousands of articles, videos and tools, helping you to make the best choices about your health and lifestyle, but also about making the most of NHS and social care services in England.

your health, your choices www.nhs.uk 15

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your health, your choices www.nhs.uk 17

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Pharmacy / Chemist - Durham North

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Dentists - Durham Dales

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Opticians - Durham Dales

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HIS IS A TEST

I F YO U C A N

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A L L T H E WAY D OW N TO HERE DOESN’T MEAN T H A T YO U D O N ’ T N E E D A N E Y E T E S T

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MOBILE EYE TESTS If you qualify for a free NHS sight test, you may be entitled to NHS-funded mobile services where the ophthalmic practitioner comes to visit you:

At Home At a Residential or Care Home At a Day Centre Call 111 to find out who provides mobile sight tests in your area 22

Your right to social care and support Local authorities have a duty to assess anyone who appears to have care and support needs. Your local authority should: • assess your needs and give you advice, whatever your financial circumstances

Your care plan should be individual to you, and you should be allowed to have as much involvement in the development of your plan as you wish.

• provide information about services and support options available to you in your area

Your care plan should help you to:

• give you a carer’s assessment if you are an unpaid/ family carer

• have as much control over your life as possible

The assessment by the local authority is important because it helps them work out what your difficulties are and what services will help you most.

• participate in society on an equal level, with access to employment and a family life • have the best possible quality of life keep as much dignity and respect as possible

Often, only minor assistance is needed – such as meals on wheels and help with washing or dressing, yet these services could make a big difference to your life

Understanding the national eligibility criteria for care and support?

If your local authority decides you are eligible for social care support, they will carry out a financial assessment to determine how much you will need to pay towards your care, if anything.

The eligibility threshold for adults with care and support needs is based on identifying how a person’s needs affect their ability to achieve relevant outcomes, and how this impacts on their wellbeing.

If you are assessed by social services and are found to be eligible for support, the next stage is to draw up a care and support plan, or in the case of a carer with eligible needs, a support plan.

Local authorities must consider whether the person’s needs:

What is a Care Plan?

• make them unable to achieve two or more specified outcomes

A care plan (sometimes called a care and support plan, or support plan if you’re a carer) sets out how your care and support needs will be met. You should be fully involved in the preparation of your care plan, and you and anyone else you request should also get a written copy. The care plan must set out: • the needs identified by the assessment • whether, and to what extent, the needs meet the eligibility criteria • the needs that the authority is going to meet, and how it intends to do so • for a person needing care, for which of the desired outcomes care and support could be relevant •

for a carer, the outcomes the carer wishes to achieve, and their wishes around providing care, work, education and recreation where support could be relevant

• the personal budget • information and advice on what can be done to reduce the needs in question, and to prevent or delay the development of needs in the future

• live independently

• arise from or are related to a physical or mental impairment or illness

• as a result of being unable to meet these outcomes, there is likely to be a significant impact on the adult’s wellbeing

An adult’s needs are only eligible where they meet all three of these conditions.

The specified outcomes measured include: • managing and maintaining nutrition, such as being able to prepare and eat food and drink • maintaining personal hygiene, such as being able to wash themselves and their clothes • managing toilet needs • being able to dress appropriately, for example during cold weather • being able to move around the home safely, including accessing the home from outside • keeping the home sufficiently clean and safe

Local authorities do not have responsibility for providing NHS services such as patient transport, but they should consider needs for support when the adult is attending healthcare appointments. The local authority should not refuse to meet eligible needs on the grounds of cost, although if there is more than one option, it is allowed to choose what it believes is the most cost effective one. If your needs do not meet the national eligibility criteria, the local authority still has to give you information and advice on what support might be available in the community to support you

• being able to develop and maintain family or other personal relationships, in order to avoid loneliness or isolation • accessing and engaging in work, training, education or volunteering, including physical access • being able to safely use necessary facilities or services in the local community including public transport and recreational facilities or services • carrying out any caring responsibilities, such as for a child

What is social care Many people’s first impression or thoughts of social care might be a residential care home. In fact, there’s a wide variety of social care services available and most people will be able to have care provided in their home. The kind of social care support you can get depends largely on your needs. This means the type of condition you have, or the severity of your disability. For example, if you have trouble walking, you may simply require some equipment to help you remain mobile and independent. But if you develop a condition that seriously affects your mental capacity or your ability to move and look after yourself, you are likely to need a much wider range of social care services. It is worth taking time to think about your specific needs and what you think you might need to help you achieve the best quality of life you can.

Equipment to enhance your independence The ability for you to remain independent sometimes hinges on small factors and tools, such as a jar gripper (to help you remove lids) or ways to raise your seat (so that you can get up more easily). Equipment can also help with weightier issues, for example, hoists to help people with mobility problems get on and off chairs or toilets, or in and out of the bath or bed. The equipment you may be able to access could include monitoring devices that check whether you have left the house if you have a condition, such as dementia, that causes confusion and wandering.

Help in your home You may want to have someone who can come to your home and give you the support you need to live your life. This can include help with tasks such as getting dressed, help with using the toilet, washing, preparing and eating food, cleaning and laundry, getting out and about, and taking part in leisure and social activities. Find out more about homecare.

Day centres provide meals and an opportunity to socialise and do activities that might not be available at home and may provide respite for Family Carers Your local authority will be able to provide you with information and advice on what services are available in your local area.

Adaptations to your home A common way that social care can support ill or disabled people to live independently at home is simple adaptations to the home. If you have difficulty living at home because of your condition, it is often a better option to improve your home than to move somewhere new. For example, depending on your condition, you might be able to get lowered kitchen surfaces and storage, wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or walking frames, or improved flooring to prevent trips and falls. Your local authority will be able to provide you with information and advice on what services are available in your local area.

Residential care If living at home is no longer a realistic or practical option, you may want to consider residential care. There are many different types of ‘residential care’ – it may mean a permanent move into a care home for older people, or it could be a stay in a home for younger adults with disabilities, or a home for children. Residential care may be privately owned, or run by a charity or the local authority.

If you are unable to manage in your home, even with help and assistance, you may need to consider whether you should move to a care or nursing home.

The main types of residential options are:

Your local authority will be able to provide you with information and advice on what services are available in your local area.

• Residential care homes with nursing care

Community support and activities Some social care services can be provided to help you continue to play an active role in your community and to get out and about and do the things you want to do. For example, you may want to work or to partake in religious or cultural events such as a festival or a sports match. Social care services may be able to support you in a wide range of ways to enable you to continue to do these things, for example a community transport service. Your local authority will be able to provide you with information and advice on what services are available in your local area. 25

Day centres

• Residential care homes • Extra care and sheltered housing • Supported living • Retirement villages Deciding on a long-term stay in residential care is a significant decision financially, practically and emotionally. You will need to think about your own preferences and decide what services will meet your needs now, as well as being flexible enough to take account of your future care needs. It is not always an easy decision. Independent advice can be important in helping you make the right decision, taking into account all the important factors. Your local authority will be able to give you details of

information services they commission locally. Many local and national charities will also be able to provide information and advice.

Financial support If you are in need of social care you may be able to get information and advice on how to cover the additional living costs you may incur. For example, you may be able to access certain financial benefits for daily living, or be able to access funding from charities to cover the costs of expensive equipment. Your local authority should be able to talk you through some of these money matters as part of your social care assessment.

Information & advisory services and advocacy People who need care may have difficulty in being able to exert their rights, get the services they need and are entitled to, or simply not know or understand what is available to them. Information and advice are often a key part of any care assessment that your local authority undertakes. This information could go a long way to helping you get the support you need. Charities are another great source of social care information – particularly those associated with conditions, such as the Alzheimer’s Society, Mind, or Scope, but also those related to different aspects of care, such as Carers UK or Independent Age.

Some people may find that an advocacy service can help them exert their rights, particularly if you have a disability and you believe you are treated unfairly. An advocacy service can act as a champion to ensure you get fair and equal treatment and access to services.

Support for carers If you look after a person who is disabled, has a longterm health condition or is elderly and frail, you are a carer. Carers can get help with their caring role, and by enabling the person they care for to get the support they need, they can make their own life easier. For example, it’s important that carers have time for themselves, and one of the best ways to arrange breaks from caring is to ensure that you have had a carer’s assessment. This will help identify how substantial and demanding your caring is and how much support you are likely to need.

Other care support You may also want to think about whether you need healthcare support if you have care needs relating to an ongoing health condition. If this is the case, then it is worth considering whether the NHS can offer any treatment, medical equipment or support that can help you live more fully with your condition

Recognising mental health and support Mental health, emotional wellbeing and resilience is all about how we cope with what life throws at us. It concerns the way we feel about ourselves, conduct relationships, handle stress or deal with loss. Good mental health and resilience are fundamental to good physical health, relationships, education and work, as well as being key to achieving our potential.

Mental health facts At least one in four people experience a diagnosable mental health problem in any one year, and one in six experiences this at any one time. • More than half of those with a common mental health problem have both depression and anxiety. • There are approximately 570,000 people with dementia in England, a figure that could double in the next 30 years. •

Nearly 850,000 children and young people aged five to 16 years have a mental health problem – about 10% of the population. Fewer than one in 10 accesses treatment.

How your GP can help Common mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, panic disorders, phobias and obsessive compulsive disorder can cause great emotional distress, and can affect how you cope with day-to-day life and your ability to work. Less common conditions, such as psychosis, can make you experience changes in thinking and perception severe enough to significantly alter your experience of reality. These conditions include schizophrenia and affective psychosis, such as bipolar disorder, and can have the same lifelong impact as any long-term physical condition. Admitting you are struggling does not mean you are “mentally ill”, that doctors will automatically put you on medication, or you will have to immediately tell your employer you are mentally unwell. Many issues can be managed without the help of a GP by using the variety of sources of help now available, whether it’s through books, local organisations or online. Even if you need professional help, there are choices you can make along the way. Mental illness is treatable and, with appropriate support and treatment, people do recover. Many move on with their lives and are able to care for their family, contribute to the local community, and get back into employment or training. You should make an appointment to see your GP if you’ve been feeling depressed for a few weeks or your anxiety is having an impact on your daily life, such as stopping you from going to work or shopping. Mental health services are free on the NHS, but you will usually need a referral from your GP to access them.

Are money worries affecting your Mental health? If you have financial worries it can really start to impact on the way you feel. Do you regularly lay awake in bed at night worrying how you’re going to pay your bills? Are you feeling tired or lacking energy because worries about money have got you down? Are you having trouble relaxing because of worries about money? Do you feel anxious about answering the phone or opening the post because it might be about your debts? 27

Do you suffer with anxiety or panic attacks when you think about your financial situation? Do you often shop or spend excessively to feel better, but have feelings of guilt or regret afterwards? Are you drinking more alcohol to help you cope with the stress of debt? Are you feeling low or tearful when you think about your financial situation? Do you find you’re irritable, easily annoyed or lose your temper more often, or more quickly, when you get stressed about money? If you have answered yes to any or most of these questions then it is time to face your fears and seek help on getting advice on how to prioritise your debts. Citizens Advice Bureau has lots of information on sorting out debt on its website in the section on Help with debt. The charity Mind has a section on its website called Money and Mental Health, which includes advice on how to manage debt.

Free and impartial money advice, set up by government Tel: 0300 500 5000

Five steps to mental wellbeing Evidence suggests there are five steps we can all take to improve our mental wellbeing.Connect – connect with the people around you: your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Spend time developing these relationships. Learn more in Connect for mental wellbeing. Be active – you don’t have to go to the gym. Take a walk, go cycling or play a game of football. Find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your life. Learn more in Get active for mental wellbeing. Keep learning – learning new skills can give you a sense of achievement and a new confidence. So why not sign up for that cooking course, start learning to play a musical instrument, or figure out how to fix your bike? Give to others – even the smallest act can count, whether it’s a smile, a thank you or a kind word. Larger acts, such as volunteering at your local community centre, can improve your mental wellbeing and help you build new social networks. Be mindful – be more aware of the present moment, including your thoughts and feelings, your body and the world around you. Some people call this awareness “mindfulness”. It can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges.

Get free, confidential and independent advice Tel: 0808 808 4000

Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm - Saturday, 9am to 1pm Sunday and Bank Holidays, closed

Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm - Saturday, 9.30am to 1pm

www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

www.nationaldebtline.org

Get free debt advice and your personal action plan

Credit Union for the North East Your first stop for loans and savings

Tel: 0300 500 5000

Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm - Saturday, 8am to 4pm

www.stepchange.org

Tel: 0330 055 3666 Email: info@nefirstcu.co.uk

www.nefirstcu.co.uk 28

Useful numbers for support in your area County Durham Healthwatch County Durham helps you and your family get the best out of health and social care services in County Durham. Tel: 01325 375 960 www.healthwatchcountydurham.co.uk

Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems. Tel: 0191 3883411 www.clsmind.co.uk

Durham & Chester-le-Street Office Tel: 0191 389 0400 www.alzheimers.org.uk

Locate can be used to find a range of services in County Durham. www.durhamlocate.org.uk

Age UK County Durham is the principal voluntary organisation working for older people, their families and carers throughout County Durham. Tel: 0191 386 3856 www.ageuk.org.uk

Self help talking therapies for anyone living in County Durham & Darlington (North Durham) 0191 374 0044 (South Durham & Darlington) 01388 646831 www.talkingchanges.org.uk

Free counselling service for children & young people until their 19th birthday. Tel: 0800 1111 www.childline.org.uk

We’re here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. Tel: 0800 090 2309 www.mariecurie.org.ukport-line

Free, confidential, impartial advice. Telephone Advice line: 03444 111 444 www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Monday–Friday 9.30am–4.30pm For confidential cancer information and support. Tel: 0800 327445 or 0191 587 4500 www.macmillan.org.uk

Here to support you after the death of someone close. Tel: 0808 808 1677 www.cruse.org.uk

Mental Health Matters - Confidential and emotional support. 6.00pm-6.00am - 7 days a week Tel: 0800 0527350 www.mentalhealthmatters.com

Men’s Advice Line Help and support for male victims of domestic violence Tel: (freephone) 0808 8010327 www.mensadviceline.org.uk

The Pioneering Care Partnership is a local charity whose aim is to improve people’s health & wellbeing. Tel: 01325 321234 www.pcp.uk.net

We work with children, families and professionals across the UK to prevent child abuse. Tel: 0808 800 5000 www.nspcc.org.uk

Support and advice for people living with mental ilness. Tel: 0300 5000 927 (Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm) www.rethink.org

Stonham Helping people enjoy stronger relationships across Darlington, Durham, Sunderland, Teesside and Scarborough Tel: 01325 461500 www.relatenortheast.org.uk

Provides health & well being and practical housing related support for vunerable people Tel: 01325 328 05 www.homegroup.org.uk

Freephone 24 hr National Domestic Violence Helpline Run in partnership between Women’s Aid & Refuge Tel: 0808 2000 247 www.womensaid.org.uk

Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair. Tel: 116 123 (24-hour free helpline) www.samaritans.org

Passionate about social justice for women and girls Tel: 0808 8029999 www.rapecrisis.org.uk

Information on child and adolescent mental health. Services for parents and professionals. Tel: Parents' helpline: 0808 802 5544 (Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm) wwww.youngminds.org.uk

Harbour Support Services are a specialist domestic abuse service who can help people who live within County Durham. Tel: 03000 20 25 25 www.myharbour.org.uk

For all general enquires. Monday–Thursday 8.30am–5.00pm, Friday 8.30am–4.30pm Tel: 03000 26 0000 www.durham.gov.uk 30

Support for carers There are 6.5 million carers in the UK which is one in 10 of the population. Ask for a Carers’ assessment

Your decision to be a carer

The Care Act 2014 makes carer’s assessments more widely available to people in caring roles Local authorities now have a legal duty to assess any carer who requests one or who appears to need support

When your carer’s assessment is done, no assumptions should be made about your willingness to be a carer. This can be a very sensitive area, because many of us feel that we have a duty to those we care for. We sometimes rule out other options because we feel we have no choice.

If you provide care and support to an adult friend or family member, you may be eligible for support from your local council. This support could include being offered money to pay for things that make caring easier. Or the local authority might offer practical support, such as arranging for someone to step in when you need a short break. It could also put you in touch with local support groups so you have people to talk to. A carer’s assessment is a discussion between you and a trained person either from the council or an organisation working on behalf of the council. The assessment will consider the impact the care and support you provide is having on your own wellbeing, as well as important aspects of the rest of your life, including the things you want to achieve day-to-day. It must also consider other important issues, such as whether you are able or willing to carry on caring, whether you work or want to work, and whether you want to study or do more socially. A carer’s assessment looks at the different ways caring affects your life, and works out how you can carry on doing the things that are important to you and your family. It covers your caring role, your feelings about caring, your physical, mental and emotional health, and how caring affects your work, leisure, education, wider family and relationships. Your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing should be at the heart of this assessment. This means that you can tell the council how caring for someone is affecting your life and what you want to be able to do in your day-to-day life. A carer’s assessment should also look at your own interests and commitments to see if and how they are disrupted by your role as a carer. One of the most important parts of your carer’s assessment will be a discussion about your wishes concerning going to work, training or leisure activities.

You have the right to choose: • whether to be a carer at all • how much care you are willing to provide • the type of care you are willing to provide When assessing your needs, social services must consider whether your role as a carer is sustainable. The assessment is about your needs and therefore you should: • have a reasonably detailed discussion about all the matters relevant to you • have the assessment in private if you want to, at a convenient time and place for you • get relevant information, including about welfare benefits you could claim and details of other services • have a chance to identify the outcomes that you want; any services should be appropriate for you and meet your needs • be given flexibility and innovation in identifying services that may meet your needs • have an opportunity to give feedback about the assessment

Request your Carer’s assessment You can request a carers assessment by contacting Adult Social Care Team Durham County Council Tel: 03000 267 979 Visit: www.durham.gov.uk Alternatively, if the person you care for is being assessed by a social care practitioner, speak to them about how you can have your needs assessed and they will be able to offer you information and advice about this.

Tailor-made care packages available

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Tel: 0191 492 8224 | w.kareplus.co.uk 31

Kelly Park Limited provides a variety of care and support services to assist people with the activities of daily living. The home care services we provide are always built around our client’s needs whether funded privately, through direct payments or NHS Personal Health Budgets.

Our dedicated care team specialise in the following: • Older People

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Home

There’s no place like it Specialists in providing older people with care and support in their own homes. Our Services include: • Specialist Dementia and Alzheimer’s care • Companionship • Respite support • Personal care • Convalescence support • Light housekeeping • Local transportation & errands • Shopping • Meal preparation . . . and much more!

Every visit is for a minimum of 1 hour with the same CAREGiver

Home Instead Senior Care Contact us on:

0191 374 4041

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Safety advice to help independent living Advice and support can often help people live independently in their own home. Here are some tips to help keep yourself, and those you care for, safe. Help to Prevent Falls Taking some simple steps can reduce the chances of falls and help to keep you independent at home. Take care of yourself: • Keep active – this will help to improve your balance. •

Think about your footwear – shoes and slippers that fit well will help you to stay upright and move around more confidently (avoid high heels, thick soles and sandals).

• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your medication – if you believe that your medication is affecting your balance. • Eat healthily – foods rich in vitamin D and calcium (like dairy products and canned fish) can help keep your bones strong. • Have ear and eye checks – being able to hear and see what is happening around you can help you to adapt to different situations.

• Tell your doctor, care worker or family if you have had a fall – to help put things in place to reduce the risk of you having another fall.

Check Your Home is Safe • Keep a look out - get things fixed that could cause you to get hurt eg. frayed carpets, trailing cables or leaves on your doorstep. • Light up - try to avoid walking around in the dark when you can't see what is around you. • Floors and stairs - keep walkways clear of clutter, have cables fixed tightly to walls and have hand rails securely fitted to walls. You may also want to consider whether you need non-slip mats under rugs. • Use steps, not chairs - when you need to reach to high shelves or to change a light bulb, or see if someone else can help you. • Pets - think about attaching a bell to your pet's collar to help you know where they are when you are both moving around.

Think about others who may need help

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You may care for family members or speak to a neighbour once in a while, have a think about hazards they may face when undertaking day to day tasks and where you might be able to support them to stay safe – through doing something yourself or finding support for them. Some simple things to think about are:

• Are there any tasks that they do which puts them at risk but that you could support? eg. putting their bin out or walking to shops when the ground is wet or icy?

Asking for help If you, or people that you look after, need support to live at home, you can contact Adult Social Care Team Durham County Council Tel: 03000 267 979 Visit: www.durham.gov.uk for information on how you can access support or request an assessment.

Living with a disability Living with a Disability Disabled people are often talked about as though they form one group. But every disabled person faces different challenges and health conditions. The Equality Act 2010 defines a disabled person as anyone who has a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out day-to-day activities. These impairments include: • Loss of limbs • Multiple Sclerosis • Heart disease • Down’s Syndrome • Learning difficulties • Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety

It’s against the law for anyone to discriminate against you because of your disability. This means that you’re entitled to fair treatment in the workplace when it comes to recruitment, promotion and pay. It also means that service providers, such as shops, post offices, leisure facilities and places of worship, are legally obliged to ensure that you can reach them. At first, you may feel confused, depressed or anxious about your life in the future. Often, newly disabled people shy away from organisations that might help them, but contact with people who face similar challenges is really important.

Older people are more likely to develop a disability and most disabled people are adults. More than 11 million people in the UK are disabled, around 6% of whom are children. More people are living with a disability now than in the past because we’re living longer, and improved medical treatments are enabling more people to manage longterm health problems. Disabilities of any kind present challenges, but this doesn’t mean that life with a disability can’t be fulfilling. For most people, a fulfilling life means having control over their day-to-day activities and being able to choose how they live. More than 1 million disabled people live alone in the UK, and many more lead independent lives with help. For a lot of people, independent life also means being employed. Half of the UK’s disabled people are in jobs, but it should be more. Only 17% of disabled people are born with their disability. Most disabled people have had to adjust to their disability as adults. If you become disabled through accident, illness or a deteriorating medical condition, life will change significantly. But with the right support, you can often continue to live in your own home, remain in employment and enjoy an independent life. Disability will inevitably bring new challenges, but it should never stop you living a happy fulfilling life.

Creating dementia friendly communities Tips for shops, workplaces, businesses, friends & neighbours It is possible for people with dementia to live well if those around them understand how they can help in simple ways. People with dementia live in your area, probably on your street, possibly amongst your friends and close neighbours. People with dementia may visit your shop, business or workplace. Common signs of dementia are confusion, forgetfulness, struggling to find words and repetitiveness. This can make everyday situations stressful. A person with dementia may need extra assistance to help them use your services or help them with everyday things. Speak clearly • Speak clearly, calmly and slowly to allow the person time to understand information. • Use simple, short sentences and avoid direct questions. • Keep choices to a minimum and don’t raise your voice. • Where possible, talk in a non-distracting place or find a quiet corner. Think about your body language • People with dementia may find it difficult to understand what is being said, but can be quick to interpret the message on people’s faces and may still be aware of body language. • Make sure you are at the person’s level, use a friendly tone and respect personal space. Show respect and patience • Adapt what you are saying if the person with dementia does not understand. • Don’t rush, and try to go at their pace.

Affected by dementia? Call the National Demential Helpline for support and information on

0300 222 1122

www.alzheimers.org.uk 35

Listen • Listen carefully to what the person has to say, giving plenty of encouragement, whilst looking out for other clues of what they might be trying to communicate. • Allow them time to find the words to tell you what they want. Noise • A person with dementia may have difficulty listening if there are a lot of different noises around them. Lighting • Make sure the lighting is sufficient so the person with dementia can see you and everything around them clearly. • Turn up the lights or move to a well-lit area. Help with handling money • Counting money, calculating and handling change, recognising coins and banknotes and knowing the value of money can all be very difficult for someone with dementia. • Offer to help by counting out money and giving a receipt. Finding the way • People with dementia may have forgotten where things are or they may not recognise everyday objects. • Sometimes people with dementia may forget where they are going or become disorientated. • They may not be able to follow simple directions and may need you to go with them to where they want to go. Feeling lost • Sometimes people with dementia may feel lost in familiar places or forget where they live. • If someone is lost and distressed, offer to help by asking if their address is on something they might have in their pocket or bag.

Recognising and finding things • People with dementia may have forgotten what they came into the premises or room for. • They may have a list but have problems finding the things they want. • Help them choose the right amount of things, particularly if they seem to be buying an unusually large amount of something. Making choices • While choice is good, for someone with dementia too much choice can be confusing. • Ask what the person would like, e.g. a coffee, and then suggest two or three likely options. • You could describe these options and remember to give a pause between each option to allow them time to think and make a decision. Whose reality • Past memories can often be stronger than present reality. • The person may be confused and say something that does not makes sense to you. Being predictable • The person with dementia may be confused if things have been rearranged, or by new people they meet. • Try to keep things the same or offer additional assistance if things have changed. Every day can be different • For some people with dementia what they can do changes from day to day, so how you help them may need to be different every time. • Look out for signs and offer to help when needed, bearing in mind the privacy of the person.

Affected by dementia? Call the National Demential Helpline for support and information on

0300 222 1122

www.alzheimers.org.uk 36

Planning for your future care needs Care has never been free and everyone should think about the care they might need in the future. The long-term costs of care can be significant, and while none of us like to think that we will become old, ill or disabled, it does happen. Likewise, if you’re the parent of a disabled child, planning their future care and how it will be funded is vital Will the NHS pay for my long-term care?

Local authority services

Long-term care is sometimes provided and funded by the NHS. If it isn’t funded by the NHS, it may be provided by your local authority. Depending on your financial circumstances, you may have to pay for some or all of the care you receive.

If you are not entitled to care funded by the NHS, or only part of your care is funded by the NHS, your care may be provided by your local authority. Local authorities are allowed to charge for the services they provide and most of them do so

You can have an assessment to determine whether you are entitled to NHS-funded care and, if not, how much you will pay towards your care.

The cost of your care will vary depending on its type, intensity, specialisation, location and duration. For example, a place in a residential care home will cost hundreds of pounds a week.

NHS continuing healthcare Some people with long-term complex health needs qualify for care arranged and funded solely by the NHS. This is known as NHS continuing healthcare.

NHS-funded nursing care If you do not qualify for NHS continuing healthcare, but you have been assessed as needing care from a registered nurse, you may receive NHS-funded nursing care.

Deferred payments if you are unable to pay for care services Care home fees are a big financial commitment, and the decision to go into a care home is often made at a moment of crisis or urgency, such as when being discharged from hospital. This can make finding the money to pay for fees (usually several hundred pounds a week) challenging for people funding their own care. In particular, if you own property outright but have little in the way of savings, you may be expected to fund your own care but have little immediately available money to pay for it. Some people going to stay in a care home for a long time find that they have no option but to sell their property to pay the care home fees. Your council may be able to help you if you are at risk of having to sell your home. Where there is a delay in selling the property, or you don’t want to sell the property immediately, you may be eligible to have your care fee payment “deferred”. This is where the local authority helps you to pay your care fees temporarily, and you repay the costs to the local authority at a later date. If the local authority agrees to the deferred payment and pays the care home fees, it will take payment from the money raised once the property is sold. This can be: • during your lifetime if you choose to sell your home • once you die, the local authority can be repaid from your estate All councils must offer people the chance to defer payment if they meet a set of eligibility criteria.

A deferred payment scheme is only available if you don’t have enough income to cover your care home fees, and you have less in savings than £23,250. In these circumstances, the savings don’t include the value of your property, but does include money in bank accounts. The local authority will put a “legal charge” (similar to a mortgage) on the property and will then pay the remaining care fees in full. You will then be assessed to see whether they are able to pay a weekly charge to the authority. Your ability to pay is based on your income less a set “disposable income allowance” (currently £144 per week). Before considering deferred payments, you should look into whether the property will or won’t be counted in how your capital is calculated. For instance, it may be disregarded because your partner still lives there, and if it is a deferred payment agreement wouldn’t be necessary. It’s wise to get independent financial advice before agreeing to a deferred payment, and it’s worth bearing in mind that choosing deferred payments can impact on some welfare benefits.

Local authorities have to help people get independent financial advice, to enable planning and preparation for future care costs. This encompasses a range of services from generic sources of information and advice, such as websites or helplines, to tailored advice relating to specific financial products, which can only be provided by a regulated financial advisor. Some of these services may charge a fee

Advice on paying for care The Money Advice Service: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk offers information on paying for care or the option to speak to an online adviser. You can call the Money Advice Service on 0300 500 5000. The Society of Later Life Advisers: www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk can also help you find advice on how to make financial plans for care in your old age.You can call the Society of Later Life Advisers 0333 2020 454

As an alternative, you may be able to enter an “equity release scheme” with a financial organisation. Equity release can pay for the fees from the value of property you own. However, you should consider which of these options best meets your needs, and what the overall costs to you will be.

How your local authority can help with planning your care The Care Act 2014 makes clear that local authorities must provide or arrange services that help to prevent people developing care and support needs, or delay people deteriorating to the point where they would need ongoing care and support. Even if you don’t want or need financial assistance with your care, your local authority can still help you plan your care, so it is worth contacting the adult social services of your local council to find out the options available to you and your family. The sooner you ask for an assessment, the sooner that plans for your care can be made. These plans should include what should be done in the event of an emergency.

Looking after you and your family

We are a locally based estate planning company offering a friendly, professional service that is tailored to meet your needs. We will visit you in the comfort of your own home, or a place of your choosing, at a time that suits you, either during the day or in the evening.

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www.hallgarthpark.co.uk Supporting the Dementia Friends initiative 38

Choosing the right home care agency If you find it difficult to carry out personal care routines – such as washing or dressing – home care services can provide the extra support that you need. Home care services (also known as domiciliary care) provide carers or personal assistants who can visit you at home to help with a wide range of tasks If you are considering using a home care agency Here is a list of questions you should ask a home care agency; ensure you get all the answers that you need.

About the carers • Will I have a regular carer? • What will happen if my regular carer is off sick? • What happens if a carer is unable to get to me because of adverse weather conditions or a traffic accident? • How many different carers are likely to visit me? • What sort of training do the carers receive? Do they have an induction period? How often is their training updated? • What qualifications do they have? • Will carers keep written records of the care that has been given, and accurate timesheets for me to sign? • Can copies of the records be sent to me if I want them?

About your needs • How will you match the most suitable carer to my needs?

What to expect from a good home-care agency ... • Your care, treatment and support are set out in a written plan that describes what staff need to do to make sure you receive personalised care. • You, and your family and friends where appropriate, are actively involved in developing this plan and it reflects your personal choices. For example, you should be able to have a choice about who provides you with personal care, such as help with washing and dressing. • As your needs and preferences change, your plan is changed, and all those who need to know, like other services, are kept up to date. • The plan includes information about the whole of your life, including your goals, your abilities and how you want to manage your health. You may also have a health action plan. • If you need to visit hospital or use another service, staff plan this with you to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. • If you have any concerns or complaints, staff always take them seriously, investigate them thoroughly and respond to them in good time.

• • • •

Will you be able to find carer(s) that can visit at the time I need care? What happens if a carer and myself are incompatible? Could a different carer be requested? What happens in the event of a medical emergency? Will the agency carer stay with my relative until help comes? Will they notify me of any problems? How will carers get into my home if I cannot answer the door? How will that information be kept secure?

About the agency • Do you have a standard contract for work with private clients? Can we see a copy? • What are your hourly charges? Are there anyminimum charges (such as a minimum number of hours per week)? • What happens on weekends and bank holidays? Is care provided? Is there an additional charge at these times? • How is payment required – by cheque, direct debit or some other way? How often is payment required? Monthly or weekly? • What insurance do you have to protect my home, for example, in the case of damage to property, the carer making a mistake, or the carer having an accident in my home? • How do you ensure quality of care is maintained? What are your quality assurance policies and procedures? • Who should I contact if I have problems with a carer or the service provided? • Is it possible to try you for a short trial period initially, to see how it works out?

Care Home & Home Care CQC Ratings By law, all care homes and home care agencies have to display the ratings the (CQC) Care Quality Commission gives them. They must display them in the places that people who use their services can easily see them. They must also show their ratings on their website, if they have one. • Outstanding: The service is performing exceptionally well. • Good: The service is performing well and meeting our expectations. • Requires improvement: The service isn’t performing as well as it should and we have told the service how it must improve. • Inadequate: The service is performing badly and we’ve taken action against the person or organisation that runs it. Read their latest report: www.cqc.org.uk/content/findservices-your-local-authority-area

Choosing the right care home Care homes may be arranged through the local authority but many people will want to arrange them independently. It is a good idea to visit several homes before making a choice. Make sure you spend enough time in each home to get a good idea of what it is like. Choosing the right care home

Choice of accommodation

Choosing a care home is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. You need to make sure it’s got everything you need, in a place you’ll be happy, at a price you can afford.

The law says that where the local authority is funding accommodation it must allow the person entering residential care to choose which care home they would prefer. Social services must first agree that the home is suitable for the person’s needs and that it would not cost more than they would normally pay for a home that would meet those needs. If the person chooses to go into a more expensive home, a relative or friend may be able to ‘top up’ the difference in cost.

When choosing a care home you need to recognise that your care needs are likely to increase over time. Choosing a care home • Make a shortlist of suitable care homes in your area that fall within your budget. • Request an information pack from the homes on your shortlist. • Request a copy of their contracts and/or terms and conditions. • Make sure they have vacancies or establish how long their waiting list is. • The cost of care varies from region to region – you could save money by relocating. • Don’t forget to take into account additional costs that may not be covered in your residential fees, such as meals and day trips. • Check how much notice you need to give if you move out and how much notice you will be given if the home is to close. • If your funding is local-authority assisted, check that you pay the same rates as self-funders and find out whether a top-up payment is required. Check the care home’s official inspection report

How much is it going to cost? Care-home fees vary considerably around the country, but on average you should expect to pay approximately £28,500 a year for a residential care home and £37,500 if nursing care is required. Your local council may be able to help with costs depending on your circumstances. Before visiting any care homes in person, you need to be very clear about what it is you’re looking for. Make a checklist of the things that are important to you, along with a list of questions to ask the managers and staff. Don’t be embarrassed – you’re about to make a lifechanging decision.

What your choices are A list of all nursing and residential care homes within your locality can be found on the following pages. Every care home in England must be registered with the national regulatory body Care Quality Commission (CQC). They inspect each care home on a regular basis and write an inspection report for you to read. It is advisable to read this report before making a final decision. To check up-to-date information on the Nursing and Residential care homes within your locality visit: www.cqc.org.uk

What to expect from a good care home ... • Your care, treatment and support are set out in a written plan that describes what staff need to do to make sure that you receive personalised care. • You, and your family and friends where appropriate, are actively involved in developing this plan. For example, you should be able to have a choice about who provides you with personal care, such as help with washing and dressing. • As your needs and preferences change, your plan is changed, and all those who need to know, such as your care staff, are kept up to date. • The plan includes information about the whole of your life, including your goals, your abilities and how you want to manage your health. You may also have a health action plan. • Staff work hard to prevent you from feeling lonely. They do this by helping you to keep in contact with your family and friends. • Staff also help you keep up your hobbies and get involved in the community if you want to. • If you need to visit hospital, staff plan this well with you to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. • If you have any concerns and complaints, staff always take them seriously, investigate them thoroughly and respond to them in good time. 40

Domiciliary, Nursing & Residential Homes

Care at Home - Durham Dales

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Nursing Homes - Durham Dales

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Durham Dales Residential Homes - Durham Dales

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Data correct with CQC

The Beeches Care Home Quality Residential & Dementia Care in Co Durham DEMENTIA CARE SPECIALISTS

Tel: 0191 5261450 17 Sycamore Terrance | Haswell | Durham | DH6 2AG

Do you need a break from caring?

• Day Care • Respite Care • Residential Care • Nursing Care To arrange a visit or more information:

Tel: 0191 377 3004

Tra DO nspo O rt A PI R TO vaila CK D bl UP OO e wi R th

Respite • Residential Care • Day Care

Domiciliary, Nursing & Residential Homes Care at Home - Durham North

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Nursing Homes - Durham North

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Tailor-made care packages available

24 hours a day â&#x20AC;˘ 7 days a week â&#x20AC;˘ 365 days of the year

Tel: 0191 492 8224 | w.kareplus.co.uk 43

Durham North Residential Homes - Durham North

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Data correct with CQC

The independent regulator of health and social care in England

Croft House Care Home with Nursing

We make sure health and social care services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate, high-quality care and we encourage care services to improve.

Full time permanent residential care Respite and short term residential

We monitor, inspect and regulate services to make sure they meet fundamental standards of quality and safety and we publish what we find, including performance ratings to help people choose care. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the independent regulator of health and social care in England.

T: 0191 526 1132 â&#x20AC;˘ www.croftcarehomes.co.uk

www.cqc.org.uk

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