Healthwatch North Yorkshire. by Healthcare Publications

Covers services within the areas:

North Yorkshire

Harrogate Richmondshire Selby Craven

Health & Social Care e Signposting Directory r a C

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Are you a Carer? If you are looking after an ill, disabled or frail elderly relative or friend, you should recognise yourself as a carer. Carers can get a range of support from social care, and can be vital for helping arrange social care support for the person they care for. There are charities that support particular groups of carers, including sibling carers and young carers.

If you want to talk to someone about how to get support as a carer call the

Carers Direct helpline on

0300 123 1053

In April 2015, the Care Act 2014 and the Children and Families Act 2014 came into force, and have strengthened the rights of carers in the social care system. As a carer, you no longer have to request an assessment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; social services should offer you one if you appear to have or will have needs for support. There are also new national rules for deciding who is eligible for care and support.

CONTENTS Healthwatch North Yorkshire NHS - Know Your Rights Do You Really Need to See Your GP? Free NHS Health Check Healthy Living NHS Personal Health Budgets Living With a Disability Recognising Mental Health & Support Worried About Addiction? The Care Act: Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Changing & Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Happening Support For Carers Social Care & Independent Living Planning For Your Future Care Needs Domiciliary, Residential & Nursing Homes Nursing Homes in North Yorkshire Residential Homes in North Yorkshire Care in Your Own Home in North Yorkshire GP & GPs Surgeries in North Yorkshire Pharmacies in North Yorkshire Dentists in North Yorkshire Opticians in North Yorkshire Expressing Complaints & Concerns

1-2 3-4 5-6 7-8 9 - 10 11 12 13 14 15 - 16 17 19 - 22 23 - 24 25 26 27 - 28 29 - 30 31 32 33 34 35 - 36

Disclaimer This Directory has been compiled to signpost primary health and social care providers throughout North Yorkshire. 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 North Yorkshire nor Healthcare Publications can be held responsible for any errors or omissions. All signposting services are up to date as of February 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 North Yorkshire or Healthcare Publications.

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

Another quality publication by Healthcare Publications If you require extra copies of this directory or are interested in advertising in future editions please email Healthcare Publications on admin@healthcarepublications.org or visit www.hcpublications.org

HEALTHWATCH NORTH YORKSHIRE

About Healthwatch North Yorkshire? We are here to make health and social care better for ordinary people. We believe that the best way to do this is by designing local services around their needs and experiences. Everything we say and do is informed by local people and our expertise is grounded in their experience. We are the only body looking solely at people’s experience across all health and social care. We are uniquely placed as a network, with a local Healthwatch in every local authority area in England.

Our Values

As a statutory watchdog our role is to ensure that local health and social care services, and the local decision makers, put the experiences of people at the heart of their care.

Courage to trust the public Healthwatch North Yorkshire (HWNY) believes that North Yorkshire residents are able to understand the Health and Social Care issues which concern them, and that they can be trusted to participate in making decisions about the planning and delivery of services.

Our vision/mission Through our network of dedicated volunteers, Healthwatch North Yorkshire will listen to local communities and then work to improve their health and well-being by creating real opportunities for local people to have their say about the health and social care services where they live. We will retain our independence and challenge when we need to.

Challenging health inequalities Challenging health inequalities will be central to the work of HWNY. However, overcoming such inequalities is not something one agency can achieve alone. HWNY will be seen as part of the wider system working towards solutions.

We will: • Encourage people to share their views about the services they use

Engagement & representation HWNY will be underpinned by strong community engagement and representation, encouraging those who are seldom heard to contribute their views.

• Signpost people to health and social care services in North Yorkshire

Volunteering The notion of volunteering is important to the ethos of HWNY. Volunteers create the identity, recognition and commitment for others to follow.

• Provide information about who to talk to if things go wrong • Harness the expertise of our local communities, charities and voluntary organisations

Informed decision making HWNY will be an important source of information to the County’s health and social care system’s decision making. HWNY will have a strong respect for robust research and facts in decision making.

• Encourage health and social care providers to deliver more joined-up services • Monitor and influence local health and social care provision

Independent and user led HWNY effectiveness will depend on its independence. Trust is best gained when critical functions are carried out by individuals who are not employed by health or social care professional bodies. HWNY will preserve the role of users and volunteers in governance. 1

HEALTHWATCH NORTH YORKSHIRE

How we Work Healthwatch North Yorkshire will feedback to Healthwatch England and this will ensure that it also has meaningful influence over policy development nationally. Bearing in mind the size of North Yorkshire and how the different Districts in the County vary in respect of views and needs, Healthwatch North Yorkshire will need to have a high profile community presence in each of the seven Districts. We hold regular drop ins, for a list see our events page on our website. These sessions will enable local people to pop along to have their say and will make sure everyone knows where they can find health and social care information.

Our Objectives

Of course people don’t need to go along to their local library as Healthwatch can be contacted during working hours on 01904 621631 and outside working hours messages can be left on an answerphone which will be returned.

• Listen to people’s views about their needs or experiences, and make sure these views are heard by those planning and providing services; • Involve local people in how health and social care services are planned and provided, leading to improvements for all;

Whilst not everyone uses the internet it is undeniable that many do and so you can use the Speak Out or Contact us options on our website.

• Influence the way services are designed and delivered at both a local and national level; • Help people find the information they need to make choices and get the most from health and social care services; • Report back to the people of North Yorkshire, and achieve our statutory duties.

Share Your Experience with Healthwatch North Yorkshire

To find out more

Healthwatch is here to support everyone across North Yorkshire to have a say in how your health and social care services are provided.

Write to us at: Healthwatch North Yorkshire 2A St Martin’s Lane, York YO1 6LN

Experience Exchange is our new online website allowing you to share your thoughts and experiences online and read others.

Call us on: 01904 621631 Email us: healthwatchny@nbforum.org.uk

So tell us about your GP, A&E, hospital and more just click on Experience Exchange on our website www.healthwatchnorthyorkshire.co.uk. You can also email us at healthwatchny@nbforum.org.uk or call the office on 01904 621 631.

NHS - KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!

You have the right to expect your NHS to assess the health requirements of your community and to commission and put in place the services to meet those needs as considered necessary, and in the case of public health services commissioned by local authorities, to take steps to improve the health of the local community.

Everyone has the right to information and education about how to take care of themselves and what they are entitled to within the health and social care system. Healthwatch North Yorkshire helps individuals to gain access to, understand, and use information to promote and maintain good health and make the best use of local services and care support.

You have the right, in certain circumstances, to go to other European Economic Area countries or Switzerland for treatment which would be available to you through your NHS commissioner.

We can: • Explain your rights and what standards to expect from services

You have the right not to be unlawfully discriminated against in the provision of NHS services including on grounds of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, belief, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity or marital or civil partnership status.

• Help you find out about funding for health & social care • Help you to access services and find your way through care ‘pathways’ – find the right service for you • Put you in touch with Support Groups, Voluntary and Community Organisations

You have the right to access certain services commissioned by NHS bodies within maximum waiting times, or for the NHS to take all reasonable steps to offer you a range of suitable alternative providers if this is not possible.

• We can register your concerns and provide information on making complaints • Pass on your reports of excellent services and care

You have the right to be treated with a professional standard of care, by appropriately qualified and experienced staff, in a properly approved or registered organisation that meets required levels of safety and quality.

• If you need advocacy we can refer you to the Independent Complaints Advocacy (ICA) You have the right to receive NHS services free of charge, apart from certain limited exceptions sanctioned by Parliament.

You have the right to expect NHS bodies to monitor, and make efforts to improve continuously, the quality of healthcare they commission or provide. This includes improvements to the safety, effectiveness and experience of services.

You have the right to access NHS services. You will not be refused access on unreasonable grounds.

You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, in accordance with your human rights. You have the right to have any complaint you make about NHS services acknowledged within three working days and to have it properly investigated. You have the right to discuss the manner in which the complaint is to be handled, and to know the period within which the investigation is likely to be completed and the response sent. You have the right to accept or refuse treatment that is offered to you, and not to be given any physical examination or treatment unless you have given valid consent. If you do not have the capacity to do so, consent must be obtained from a person legally able to act on your behalf, or the treatment must be in your best interests. 3

NHS - KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!

You have the right to be given information about the test and treatment options available to you, what they involve and their risks and benefits.

You have the right to compensation where you have been harmed by negligent treatment. You have the right to choose the organisation that provides your NHS care.

You have the right of access to your own health records and to have any factual inaccuracies corrected.

With all the changes to health and care services itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not always clear where you should go to report an urgent issue, to make a complaint, or for further information.

You have the right to privacy and confidentiality and to expect the NHS to keep your confidential information safe and secure.

Healthwatch North Yorkshire can help you find the right services to suit your needs through our Information & Signposting Service.

You have the right to be informed about how your information is used. You have the right to request that your confidential information is not used beyond your own care and treatment and to have your objections considered, and where your wishes cannot be followed, to be told the reasons including the legal basis.

We cannot give you advice or make specific recommendations but we can help you make an informed decision in finding the right health and social care service whether it is provided by the NHS, the Council, a voluntary or community organisation.

You have the right to choose your GP practice, and to be accepted by that practice unless there are reasonable grounds to refuse, in which case you will be informed of those reasons.

You have the right to express a preference for using a particular doctor within your GP practice, and for the practice to try to comply.

Write to us at: Healthwatch North Yorkshire 2A St Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lane, York YO1 6LN

You have the right to make choices about the services commissioned by NHS bodies and to information to support these choices.

Email us: healthwatchny@nbforum.org.uk Follow us on Twitter HealthwatchNY

You have the right to be involved in discussions and decisions about your health and care, including your end of life care, and to be given information to enable you to do this. Where appropriate this right includes your family and carers.

Visit our website: www.healthwatchnorthyorkshire.co.uk

You have the right to be kept informed of progress and to know the outcome of any investigation into your complaint, including an explanation of the conclusions and confirmation that any action needed in consequence of the complaint has been taken or is proposed to be taken. You have the right to take your complaint to the independent Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman or Local Government Ombudsman, if you are not satisfied with the way your complaint has been dealt with by the NHS. You have the right to make a claim for judicial review if you think you have been directly affected by an unlawful act or decision of an NHS body or local authority.

DO YOU REALLY NEED TO SEE YOUR GP? Common health complaints, such as coughs, colds and headaches, account for one out of every five GP appointments in England.

2. Dermatitis

Many of these can be treated quicker and just as effectively at home using self care, advice from your pharmacist and over-the-counter medicines bought from pharmacies or supermarkets. Below are the top 10 conditions, listed in decreasing order, that account for 75% of GP consultations for minor ailments.

Dermatitis, which includes conditions such as mild eczema, happens when your body comes into contact with a substance that irritates your skin or causes an allergic reaction. Self-care tips: • Avoid scratching. Scratching may damage your skin and allow bacteria to get in, leading to infection. It may help to keep your nails short. • Try to identify the irritant or allergen so you can avoid coming into contact with it.

1. Back pain

3. Heartburn and indigestion

One in five people visits their GP in any given year because of back pain. Most cases of back pain can be treated with over-the-counter medicines and self-care aids and techniques. Self-care tips: • Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief. • Use hot or cold compression packs. • It’s important to remain mobile by, within reason, carrying on with your day-to-day activities, including work. Take care when lifting objects.

Digestive complaints like heartburn, indigestion and bloating are very common. They’re usually treatable with simple changes to your lifestyle. Self-care tips: • Diet, excess weight, smoking, alcohol and going to bed on a full stomach can all contribute to indigestion. • Make a note of any food or drink that seems to make your indigestion worse, and try to avoid them. This may mean eating less rich, spicy and fatty foods, and cutting down on drinks that contain caffeine.

4. Nasal Congestion In most cases, a blocked nose will clear within a few days without treatment once the body fights off the underlying infection. If you’ve got a virus, such as a cold or flu, your GP can’t offer you anything more than a pharmacist can provide. Antibiotics won’t help. Self-care tips: • Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot (but not boiling) water may soften and loosen the build-up of mucus in your nose. Adding menthol crystals or eucalyptus oil to the water may ease your blocked nose and catarrh.

Choosing the right NHS service if you become ill or are injured Hangover, grazed knee, sore throat, cough?

Self Care:

Diarrhoea, runny nose, painful cough, headache?

Pharmacies:

Conditions that cannot wait until your GP Surgery is open

GP Out of Hours:

Cuts, sprains, itchy rash, strain?

Walk in Centres/Minor Injury Units:

Heavy bleeding, broken bones, burns, chest pain, trouble breathing?

Emergency Department / A&E

Be sure to stock up your medicine cabinet with pain killers, plasters and antiseptic creams

5. Constipation

Visit without an appointment and get confidential health advice & treatment for most minor illnesses.

If you are having difficulty passing stools (going for a poo), changing your diet may be all that’s needed to ease your constipation without taking medicines. Self-care tips: • If your constipation is causing pain, take a painkiller, such as paracetamol. • Add more fibre to your diet, such as fruit, vegetables, wholewheat pasta, wholemeal bread, seeds, nuts and oats. This may take a few days to have an effect. • Make sure you’re drinking enough water. Cut down on caffeine, alcohol and fizzy drinks. • Regular exercise will greatly reduce your risk of getting constipation.

Highly trained and skilled clinician who can deal with your complex and urgent conditions please call 111 to access the service.

Offer access to a range of treatment for minor illnesses and injuries. You will be seen by an experienced clinician, without an appointment.

Should only be used in an emergency or life-threatening situation. If you cannot travel yourself, call 999 for an ambulance. 5

DO YOU REALLY NEED TO SEE YOUR GP? 6. Migraines

9. Sprains and strains

A migraine is a reoccurring headache that’s strong enough to stop you from carrying on with daily life. Self-care tips: • Ask your pharmacist for advice. They may recommend over-the-counter painkillers. These are usually more effective if taken at the first signs of a migraine attack. • Combination medicines, which contain painkillers and anti-sickness medicines for migraine, can be bought without prescription. Always get your pharmacist’s advice first. • If your migraines are severe, you may need stronger migraine-specific medicines that are only available only on prescription from your GP.

Most mild to moderate sprains and strains can be treated at home. Self-care tips: • For the first 72 hours after a sprain or muscle strain you should avoid heat – such as hot baths – alcohol, running and massage. • Try to keep your sprained joint mobile, unless the sprain is severe. The injury will heal quicker if you move the joint as soon as you’re able to. • Your recovery time from a sprain or a strain will depend how serious the injury is. Get medical help straight away if your joint looks different than usual, is difficult or impossible to move, or you feel numbness or tingling.

7. Coughs

10. Headaches Most headaches aren’t serious, and are usually relieved by medicines, relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes. Self-care tips: • For pain relief, paracetamol usually works well to relieve a tension-type headache. It’s best to take a full dose as soon as a headache starts. Anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen, can also help with headaches.

Coughs are usually caused by viruses such as the common cold or flu. They usually clear up without treatment once your immune system has beaten the virus. Antibiotics won’t help with coughs caused by viruses. Self-care tips: • Drink plenty of fluids – water is best. Make sure you drink something non-alcoholic at least every hour. • Make your own homemade cough mixture by mixing honey and lemon in hot water. • Some over-the-counter medicines can help to relieve cold or flu symptoms, such as a blocked nose, fever and headache. • If you smoke, try to stop smoking. Get advice from your pharmacy team about over-the- counter products that can help you stop smoking, or visit an NHS stop-smoking service.

Lisa Milnes Foot Care Specialist

Lisa Milnes Foot Care Specialist provides foot care treatment plans and products to clients throughout the local area, including many diabetic, disabled and senior citizens.

8. Acne Acne consists of spots and painful bumps on the skin. It’s most noticeable on the face, but can also appear on the back, shoulders and buttocks. Self-care tips: • Avoid picking or squeezing spots as this can cause inflammation and lead to scarring. • Use a mild face wash, which can be bought from a pharmacy. Bear in mind that over-washing can aggravate acne. • There’s no evidence that wearing make-up or that certain foods, such as fried foods or chocolate, can cause or aggravate acne. • Acne is caused by bacteria building up on your skin. The less you touch your skin, the less bacteria will spread on your skin.

• Ingrowing Toenails • Callus Treatments • Verrucas • Corns • Fungal Infections Resident • Athletes Foot • Discomfort etc & Nursinial g • Home visits Home visits • Late appointments available available • Friendly professional service For an appointment or more information telephone

01423 780182 / 07794 428443

www.lisamilnesfootcarespecialist.co.uk Daleside Summerbridge | Harrogate | North Yorkshire | HG3 4HS 6

FREE NHS HEALTH CHECK

Who is it for?

Everyone is at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, and some forms of dementia. The good news is that these conditions can often be prevented – even if you have a history of them in your family. Have your free NHS Health Check and you will be better prepared for the future and be able to take steps to maintain or improve your health.

The NHS Health Check scheme is available across North Yorkshire. If a person is aged between 40 and 74 and hasn’t already been diagnosed with heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or had a stroke, they may be invited by their GP for the NHS Health Check by letter, text or they may be offered the NHS Health Check when they are at their GP for another reason.

Why do I need an NHS Health Check? We know that your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and dementia increases with age. There are also certain things that will put you at even greater risk. These are: • Being overweight • Being physically inactive • Not eating healthily • Smoking • Drinking too much alcohol • High blood pressure • High cholesterol Both men and women can develop these conditions, and having one could increase your risk of developing another in the future. • In the brain a blocked artery or a bleed can cause a stroke • In the heart a blocked artery can cause a heart attack or angina • The kidneys can be damaged by high blood pressure or diabetes, causing chronic kidney disease and increasing your risk of having a heart attack • Being overweight and physically inactive can lead to type 2 diabetes • If unrecognised or unmanaged, type 2 diabetes could increase your risk of further health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease and stroke

FREE NHS HEALTH CHECK

Even if you’re feeling well, it’s worth having your NHS Health Check now. We can then work with you to lower your chances of developing these health problems in the future.

Questions you may have Why do I need this check? I feel fine! The NHS Health Check helps to identify potential risks early. By having this check and following the advice of your health professional, you improve your chances of living a healthier life.

What happens at the check? This check is to assess your risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and stroke.

But don’t these conditions run in the family? If you have a history of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, or kidney disease in your family then you may be more at risk. Taking action now can help you to prevent the onset of these conditions.

• The check will take about 20-30 minutes • You’ll be asked some simple questions. For example, about your family history and choices which may put your health at risk

I know what I’m doing wrong. How can the doctor help me?

• We’ll record your height, weight, age, sex and ethnicity

If you would like help, we will work with you to find ways to eat healthily, reach your healthy weight, be more active, cut down your drinking, or stop smoking.

• We’ll take your blood pressure • We’ll do a simple blood test to check your cholesterol level

If I am assessed as being at ‘low risk’, does this mean I won’t develop these conditions?

What happens after the check? We will discuss how you can reduce your risk and stay healthy.

It is impossible to say that someone will or won’t go on to develop one of these conditions. But taking action now can help you lower your potential risk.

• You’ll be taken through your results and told what they mean. Some people may be asked to return at a later date for their results

Will everyone have this check?

• You’ll be given personalised advice on how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle

This check is part of a national scheme to help prevent the onset of these health problems. Everyone between the ages of 40 and 74 who has not been diagnosed with the conditions mentioned will be invited for a check once every five years. If you are outside the age range and concerned about your health, you should contact your GP.

• Some people with raised blood pressure will have their kidneys checked through a blood test • Some people may need to have another blood test to check for type 2 diabetes. Your health professional will be able to tell you more • Treatment or medication may be prescribed to help you maintain your health

HEALTHY LIVING

If exercise were a pill, it would be one of the most cost-effective drugs ever invented.

Health benefits Given the overwhelming evidence, it seems obvious that we should all be physically active. It’s essential if you want to live a healthy and fulfilling life into old age.

People are less active nowadays, partly because technology has made our lives easier. We drive cars or take public transport. Machines wash our clothes. We entertain ourselves in front of a TV or computer screen.

It’s medically proven that people who do regular physical activity have: • up to a 35% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke • up to a 50% lower risk of type 2 diabetes • up to a 50% lower risk of colon cancer • up to a 20% lower risk of breast cancer • a 30% lower risk of early death • up to an 83% lower risk of osteoarthritis • up to a 68% lower risk of hip fracture • a 30% lower risk of falls (among older adults) • up to a 30% lower risk of depression • up to a 30% lower risk of dementia

Fewer people are doing manual work, and most of us have jobs that involve little physical effort. Work, house chores, shopping and other necessary activities are far less demanding than for previous generations. We move around less and burn off less energy than people used to. Research suggests that many adults spend more than seven hours a day sitting down, at work, on transport or in their leisure time. People aged over 65 spend 10 hours or more each day sitting or lying down, making them the most sedentary age group.

To stay healthy, adults should try to be active daily and aim to achieve at least 150 minutes of physical activity over a week through a variety of activities.

Exercise is free, easy to take, has an immediate effect and you don’t need a GP to get some.

For most people, the easiest way to get moving is to make activity part of everyday life, like walking or cycling instead of using the car to get around. However, the more you do, the better, and taking part in activities such as sports and exercise will make you even healthier.

It can reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and cancer by up to 50% and lower your risk of early death by up to 30%.

For any type of activity to benefit your health, you need to be moving quick enough to raise your heart rate, breathe faster and feel warmer. This level of effort is called moderate intensity activity. One way to tell if you’re working at a moderate intensity is if you can still talk but you can’t sing the words to a song.

Exercise is the miracle cure we’ve always had, but for too long we’ve neglected to take our recommended dose. Our health is now suffering as a consequence. Whatever your age, there’s strong scientific evidence that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and even happier life.

If your activity requires you to work even harder, it is called vigorous intensity activity. There is substantial evidence that vigorous activity can bring health benefits over and above that of moderate activity. You can tell when it’s vigorous activity because you’re breathing hard and fast, and your heart rate has gone up quite a bit. If you’re working at this level, you won’t be able to say more than a few words without pausing for a breath.

Research shows that physical activity can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

MOTIVATIONAL SPECIALISTS FOR THE CARE SECTOR

www.motivationandco.com

Specialising in physical & mental stimulation for the Care sector

We offer a range of free, confidential and friendly services across North Yorkshire including: Tests and treatments for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

We deliver specialist cognitive motivation developed to suit all abilities for your residents, supporting the role of the Activity Organisers. The Motivation & Co. Class has been designed and fully researched to help maintain or improve emotional and physical well-being, providing an evidence based evaluation.

How the Motivation & Co. Class will benefit your residents? • Memory stimulation • Improve mobility & dexterity • Social interaction • Tailored to individual needs • Fun & entertaining • Contact with an outside team

A range of contraception Advice and support around pregnancy and abortion HIV tests, treatments and support

Call us on

Free condoms

01937 557166

”Virtual” services (online/telephone)

to book a Motivation & Co. taster session

Outreach services, including rapid HIV tests Everyone Welcome!

We really do make a difference! Cognitive Therapy

Exercise

Games

Music Therapy

www.yorsexualhealth.org.uk

Tel. 01904 721111

Evaluation

Harrogate’s Premier Women Only 30 Minute Workout Venue Studies show that the risk of heart disease, stroke, thrombosis, diabetes and obesity can be reduced by a third if you exercise for just 30 minutes on a regular basis

Join us now and benefit from • Weight Loss • Mobility and Strength • Long Term Health Improvements • Figure improvement • Fitness and Energy

Gymophobics Weight Loss Programme On average, our slimmers lose between one and two pounds per week by following our unique Low Sugar Diet (LSD).

01423 536102 to book your FREE Gymophobics Health MOT www.gymophobics.co.uk/Gyms/Harrogate

Call now on

E FRpEhobics

o T Gymalth MO He

Come and join us for a fitter, healthier lifestyle! Harrogate Gym | 1 King Edwards Drive | Harrogate | HG1 4HA 10

NHS PERSONAL HEALTH BUDGETS

Personal Health Budgets

Can I have a personal health budget as well as a personal budget for social care and support?

Personal health budgets are being introduced by the NHS to help people manage their care in a way that suits them. They have been piloted in a number of places across England and, from April 2014, anyone receiving NHS continuing healthcare will have a right to ask for a personal health budget.

Yes. If you already have a personal budget for care and support from social services and your NHS team agrees, you can also have a personal health budget and ask for both to be combined.

Do I have to have a personal health budget?

What is a Personal Health Budget? A personal health budget is an amount of money to support your identified health and wellbeing needs, planned and agreed between you and your local NHS team. The aim is to give people with long-term conditions and disabilities greater choice and control over the healthcare and support they receive. Personal health budgets work in a similar way to the personal budgets that many people are already using to manage and pay for their social care. Together with your NHS team (such as a GP) you will develop a care plan. The plan sets out your personal health and wellbeing needs, the health outcomes you want to achieve, the amount of money in the budget and how you are going to spend it.

No. If having a personal health budget does not work for you, your local NHS will provide the care you need as it has always done.

What is the difference between a personal health budget, a personal budget, an individual budget and a direct payment? A personal health budget is for your NHS healthcare and support needs. A personal budget is for your social care and support needs. An individual budget includes your social care and support needs plus other funding, such as independent living.

You can use a personal health budget to pay for a wide range of items and services, including therapies, personal care and equipment. This will allow you more choice and control over the health services and care you receive.

A direct payment is one way of managing these budgets, where you get the cash to buy the agreed care and support you need.

You don’t have to change any healthcare or support that is working well for you just because you get a personal health budget, but if something isn’t working, you can change it.

Key points • Personal health budgets should help people get a better service from the NHS. They should not make things worse. • You do not have to have a personal health budget if you do not want one. • You should have as much control over decisions as you want. • NHS and social care organisations should work in partnership with you and with each other. • If you are not able to have a personal health budget, you can still speak to your NHS team about how your needs can be met in another way that is more personal to you.

Who can have a personal health budget? The first group to be able to ask for a personal health budget, from April 2014, will be people getting NHS continuing healthcare, which is NHS funded long-term health and personal care provided outside hospital. Local NHS organisations will be free to offer personal health budgets to other people if they think an individual will benefit. It is the Government’s long-term aim, to introduce a right to a personal health budget for people who would benefit from it.

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LIVING WITH A DISABILITY

Living with a Disability

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.

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.

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.

These impairments include: • Loss of limbs • Multiple Sclerosis • Heart disease • Down’s Syndrome • Learning difficulties • Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety 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 long-term 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.

ADAPTIONS FOR THE LESS ABLE

Adaptations require a great deal of consideration and planning to suit the needs of the less able user, but also to suit the needs of any other able bodied persons within the home.

More than 1 million disabled people live alone in the UK, and many more lead independent lives with help.

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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.

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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.

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RECOGNISING MENTAL HEALTH & 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.

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.

Good mental health and resilience are fundamental to good physical health, relationships, education and work, as well as being key to achieving our potential.

How your GP can help 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 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.

Mental health services are free on the NHS, but you will usually need a referral from your GP to access them.

• 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.

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

• 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. 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-today life and your ability to work.

Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair. Tel: 08457 90 90 90 (24-hour helpline) www.samaritans.org.uk

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.

Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems. Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm) www.mind.org.uk

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.

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A local charity with over 20 years of experience providing personalised support and opportunities for individuals with Autism, Asperger's and additional needs. timetogether@btconnect.com • 01423 883992 • www.timetogether.info 13

WORRIED ABOUT ADDICTION?

If you have an addiction, you’re not alone - one in three of us are addicted to something.

Being addicted to something means that not having it causes withdrawal symptoms, or a “come down”. Because this can be unpleasant, it’s easier to carry on having or doing what you crave, and so the cycle continues.

Addiction is defined as not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you.

Often, an addiction gets out of control because you need more and more to satisfy a craving and achieve the “high”.

Addiction is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs, alcohol and nicotine, but it’s possible to be addicted to just about anything, including:

How addictions can affect you The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage your work life and relationships. In the case of substance abuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects.

Work – workaholics are obsessed with their work to the extent that they suffer physical exhaustion. If your relationship, family and social life are suffering and you never take holidays, you may be a work addict.

Some studies suggest addiction is genetic, but environmental factors, such as being around other people with addictions, are also thought to increase the risk.

Internet – as computer and mobile phone use has increased, so too have computer and internet addictions. People may spend hours each day and night surfing the internet or gaming while neglecting other aspects of their lives.

An addiction can also be a way of blocking out difficult issues. Unemployment and poverty can trigger addiction, along with stress and emotional or professional pressure.

Solvents – volatile substance abuse is when you inhale substances such as glue, aerosols, petrol or lighter fuel to give you a feeling of intoxication. Solvent abuse can be fatal.

• You’re more at risk of developing an addiction if: • other members of your family have addiction problems

Shopping – shopping becomes an addiction when you buy things you don’t need or want to achieve a buzz. This is quickly followed by feelings of guilt, shame or despair.

• you experienced stress or abuse while growing up • you have mental health problems

What causes addictions?

• you have unemployment and financial worries

There are lots of reasons why addictions begin. In the case of drugs, alcohol and nicotine, these substances affect the way you feel, both physically and mentally. These feelings can be enjoyable and create a powerful urge to use the substances again.

• you’re experiencing relationship problems Addictive behaviour often occurs when people try to deal with or forget about these difficult issues

Treating addiction There are many organisations that provide help in treating addictions. Your GP is a good first point of contact. They’ll be able to provide you with help and advice, and can recommend specialist addiction services both nationally and locally.

Gambling may result in a similar mental “high” after a win, followed by a strong urge to try again and recreate that feeling. This can develop into a habit that becomes very hard to stop.

Time Together

THE CARE ACT: WHAT’S CHANGING & WHAT’S HAPPENING

Care and support is changing for the better

Care and support and you Most local authorities have had a one size fits all approach to care. The focus has been on what disabilities someone has, or what services the local authority can provide, rather than on the individual’s needs.

Care and support in England is changing for the better. The new Care Act will help make care and support more consistent across the country and councils will have a greater responsibility for looking after people’s wellbeing.

For the first time, the Act provides people with a legal entitlement to a personal budget, which is an important part of their care and support plan. The personal budget must be included in every plan, unless the person is only receiving intermediate care or reablement support to meet their identified needs.

The Care Act is a new law about care and support for adults in England that came into force in April 2015, making one new law saying what people can expect and what local authorities will have to do. The number of people in England who have health problems requiring both health and social care is increasing.

Getting the right care and support Health and social care needs assessments are changing. Greater emphasis will be placed on your physical, psychological and emotional wellbeing including what is important to you and your family to help you to maintain your independence and connect with your local community.

For example, in the next 20 years, the percentage of people over 85 will double. This means there are likely to be more people with ‘complex health needs’ - more than one health problem - who require a combination of health and social care services.

Your plan, your decisions If you receive care and support you will be more in control of decisions that affect you and in putting together a care plan tailored to your needs. You will also have more control over how the money for your care is spent. You will know how much it will cost to meet your needs and how much the local authority will contribute towards the cost.

The Care Act has created a single, modern law that makes it clear what kind of care people should expect. The new Care Act will further this by ensuring that all organisations locally, and nationally, work together to fully support a person’s overall wellbeing. If you receive care and support, or you support someone as a carer, you could benefit from the changes.

Deferred payment agreements From April 2015, deferred payment agreements will be available from all councils across England. A deferred payment agreement is an arrangement with your local Authority that will enable people to use the value of their homes to help pay care home costs. You can delay repaying the council until you choose to sell your home, or until after your death. You should be eligible for a deferred payment agreement if: • you are receiving care in a care home (or you are going to move into one soon) • you own your own home (unless your partner or certain others live there) • you have savings and investments of less than £23,250 (not including the value of your home or your pension pot) A deferred payment agreement is only one way to pay for care. To find out more about the options available speak to a financial adviser or seek advice from an independent organisation. 15

THE CARE ACT: WHAT’S CHANGING & WHAT’S HAPPENING

How does the Care Act benefit carers?

Safeguarding adults from abuse Every person has the right to live a life free of fear, be treated with dignity, have their choices respected and not be forced to do anything against their will.

Previously, carers didn’t have a legal right to receive support, although local authorities can provide support at their discretion. This means that access to assessment and the range of support on offer can vary considerably.

Sadly, some vulnerable adults are subjected to abuse. It can happen anywhere and by anyone that’s why we and our partner organisations work together to protect and safeguard vulnerable adults. The Care Act has made many of the local authorities responsibilities law and now means that safeguarding adults has a similar legal status as child protection.

The Care Act gives local authorities a responsibility to assess a carer’s needs for support, where the carer appears to have such needs. This replaces the existing law, which says that the carer must be providing “a substantial amount of care on a regular basis” to qualify for an assessment. This will mean more carers are able to have an assessment. The local authority will assess whether the carer has needs and what those needs may be. This assessment will consider the impact of caring on the carer. It will also consider the things that a carer wants to achieve in their own day-to-day life. It must also consider other important issues, such as whether the carer is able or willing to carry on caring, whether they work or want to work, and whether they want to study or do more socially. If both the carer and the person they care for agree, a combined assessment of both their needs can be undertaken.

What is abuse?

Abuse and neglect can take many different forms. Some of the most common are: Institutional Emotional Financial Sexual Physical Discriminatory

Who needs safeguarding?

It is true that many people who need safeguarding help are often elderly and frail or with physical or learning disabilities, living on their own in the community or without much family support in care homes. Yet anyone who is unable to protect themselves from harm could fall victim to abuse.

Adults caring for disabled children An adult caring for a disabled child can get support through children’s services. This is usually the best way to meet their needs, so they are not covered by this Act.

What should you do if you think that an adult is being abused or is at risk of being abused?

However, there is provision in the Act for an adult carer of a disabled child to ask for an assessment of their caring needs before the child reaches 18. When a local authority carries out such an assessment, it has the power to provide support to the carer, even though they are caring for a child, rather than an adult. This would, for example, enable a local authority to provide support that is available through an adult carers’ centre.

If you have any concerns please telephone North Yorkshire Safeguarding Adults Board Tel: 0845 034 9410 Email: social.care@northyorks.gov.uk or visit our website www.northyorks.gov.uk/safeguarding In an emergency always call the police on 999

The Care Act and young carers The Care Act does not deal with the assessment of people under the age of 18 who care for others. However, young carers can be supported under the law relating to children. The Children and Families Act gives young carers (and parent carers) similar rights to assessment as other carers have under the Care Act.

All safeguarding concerns raised will be assessed by experienced staff who will explore your concerns further, and where appropriate make decisions about what should happen next.

To view The Children and Families Act in further detail please visit:

Vigilance and action could protect a vulnerable person from harm or even save a life.

www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/6/contents/enacted 16

SUPPORT FOR CARERS

There are 6.5 million carers in the UK which is one in 10 of the population. In North Yorkshire there are over 18,000 carers which equates to 11 per cent of the population Ask for a Carers’ assessment

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.

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.

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.

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 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

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.

Getting an assessment Please ring 01609 534527 or visit www.northyorks.gov.uk

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.

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.

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SOCIAL CARE & INDEPENDENT LIVING

How do I get Social care? If you have decided that you need social care support, you may want to think about the type of support you require, be it homecare workers, equipment or respite breaks. Your first step should be to ask your local authority social services department for an assessment of you needs. Local authorities have a duty to assess anyone who appears to need the community care services they offer. Your local authority should: • assess your needs and give you advice, whatever your financial circumstances • tell you about local services and who to contact locally for advice • be able to provide information about services and support options available to you in your area • give you relevant information if you are an unpaid/family carer

Your rights and entitlements In most cases, you shouldn’t have to actively exert your rights in regards to the care that you receive. However, if you feel you are being unjustly treated in breach of your rights, you may want to take action. You can do this by telling someone you trust, seeking help from Healthwatch North Yorkshire or contacting the local authority team in charge of ‘safeguarding’.

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. Each local authority has its own way of working out who is eligible for social care support and what services it can offer.

Under UK law, you should be looked after and treated fairly and with dignity whenever you are given social care services. This applies to everyone, regardless of where they are given care and who does the caring.

If your local authority thinks you are eligible for social care support, you have a specific level of need and meet financial rules, you should be involved in the decision-making process that follows. If appropriate, the next step will be for social services or an independent adviser to work with you to create a care plan.

Other laws may also protect you from discrimination because of who you are, including some protection for carers under the rules designed to protect disabled people. For example, if you are an older person, this should not stop you from having treatment similar to that which a younger person would be given.

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.

Family Support Families with disabled children may be eligible for Family Support to help you look after your child. This can include day care for children under five, help with parenting such as parenting classes, courses or family support workers, practical home help, and access to a Children’s Centre. Some of these services are available to all families.

If you feel that your needs have changed over time, you will have to be re-assessed. Contact the social care team at your local authority to discuss it with them.

• • • •

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However, 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 or in a care 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.

What social care support can I get? 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 who need social care support will be able to have care provided in their home. The kind of social care support that 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 a neurological problem that causes you to have trouble walking you may simply require some equipment to help you remain mobile and independent. However, if you have a significant neurological problem that seriously affects your mental capacity or 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.

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

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.

Day centres Visiting a day centre can be a good alternative to moving into a care home. Day centres provide an opportunity to socialise and do activities that might not be available at home and may provide respite for family carers.

Care and support services might typically include: • equipment • help in your home or in a care home • community support and activities • day centres • home adaptations • residential care • financial support • information and advisory services, and advocacy • support for carers • other support for care

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.

Equipment Getting the right equipment can revolutionise your life. 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), which can make all the difference. 21

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PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE CARE NEEDS

Planning for your future care needs

Claiming Benefits

There may be times in your life when you think about the consequences of becoming seriously ill or disabled.

If you have care needs or a disability there are benefits to help you manage with the extra costs. Most of these benefits aren’t affected by income or savings and you may be able to keep them if you have to go into a care home.

This may be at a time of ill health or as a result of a life-changing event. It may simply be because you are the sort of person who likes to plan ahead.

Why it’s important to claim all the benefits you’re entitled to

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.

The amount you pay towards your long-term care is worked out as if you’re already receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to. So it’s important to claim everything you can, otherwise you’ll end up paying more than you need to

Few of us will have the income or ready access to the cash to pay for their ongoing care needs. Often people find that they need to sell or remortgage their home to pay for care or enter into an equity release scheme. Before taking such significant financial steps it is advisable to get proper independent financial advice.

What benefits are you entitled to? Financial support is available whether you need help to live safely and comfortably in your own home, or you need to move into a care home. What’s more, not all benefits are means-tested. Disability benefits that help with personal care needs or the extra costs of getting around don’t take your income or savings into account

NHS Continuing Care funding

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If you have a disability or complex medical problem, you might qualify for free NHS Continuing Care. Not many people know about it, so it’s important to find out if you’re eligible and get an assessment.

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What is NHS Continuing Care If you need a lot of nursing support, NHS Continuing Care can arrange and fund your care for you.

Planning your funeral in advance can bring real peace of mind for you and your family.

It helps you with health-care needs that result from disability, accident or illness.

When the time comes you can trust us to make sure everything will be just the way you want it to be with no added worries.

If you qualify, it should meet the full cost of your care including the full fees of a nursing home or hospice, although you can also get the care at home.

We offer a range of funeral plans that deliver peace of mind for you and your family. Our plans offer easy and accessible funding options that are flexible to your financial situation.

Chapel of Rest Home visits A guaranteed personal service day or night

We are here for you at your time of need

Tel: 01423 504417 www.harrogate-funerals.co.uk

PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE CARE NEEDS

Deferred payment agreements for long-term care

Are there any charges with a deferred payment agreement?

If most of your money is tied up in your property and you have very little savings, your local authority may offer you the option of delaying payments so you don’t have to sell your home immediately to pay for long-term care. This is known as a deferred payment agreement.

The local authority will charge an administrative fee to cover the costs of setting up the deferred payment. You may have to pay valuation costs on the property.

How do deferred payment agreements work?

www.ageuk.org.uk

Find out more about paying for care on the websites of:

www.carersuk.org

The local authority will assess your income and capital to see how much you can afford to pay towards your care. They will then make up the shortfall of the money you need to fund the costs. You will sign a legal agreement with the council, saying that the money will be repaid when your home is sold.

www.findmegoodcare.co.uk www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) is an independent, national organisation of lawyers, such as solicitors, barristers, and legal executives who provide specialist legal advice for older and vulnerable people, their families and carers. www.sfe.legal

The council usually ensures that the money you owe in care fees will be repaid by putting a legal charge on your property. It does this by contacting the Land Registry to place the charge. The charge is removed when the outstanding debt is repaid. You can’t usually use more than 90% of the value of your home to pay for fees. This is to leave you or the executor of your will with enough money to cover the sale costs and to make sure the council gets their money back if house prices fall. You can usually only apply to join a deferred payment scheme after you have been in a residential home for 12 weeks or more. Short term stays in care aren’t covered.

retirement services Helping you decide whether equity release is the right option for you

The money must be repaid within 56 days if you sell your home or you leave the care home.

Unlock money tax-fee from your home

If you die, the money must be repaid within 90 days of your death.

Whole of Market independent equity release advice

If there is a problem repaying the amount, you or the executor of your will should contact the local authority as soon as possible.

Recommended by solicitors and independent financial advisers Peace of mind; Award winning impartial equity release specialist

Am I eligible to use a deferred payment agreement?

Preferential offers and rates from equity release providers

• You should have savings and capital of less than a certain amount, not including the value of your home. In England this is £23,250.

Appointments in the comfort of your own home

www.bowerretirement.co.uk

• Be a homeowner or have another asset that the local authority can use as security and be in long-term residential care. You won’t be able to take out a deferred payment agreement for temporary stays in care.

Call Paul Murphy on 07816 061 170 for a Free initial no-obligation consultation This is a Lifetime Mortgage or Home Reversion Plan. Equity Release is not suitable for everyone. To understand the features and risks, please ask for a personalised illustration. Bower Retirement Services is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Ref. 109/15 Financial Services Register Number: 451607

NURSING HOMES , RESIDENTIAL & DOMICILIARY

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 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. When choosing a care home you need to recognise that your care needs are likely to increase over time.

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

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.

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 agency • Do you have a standard contract for work with private clients? Can we see a copy? • What are your hourly charges? Are there any minimum 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?

Check the care home’s official inspection report

Choice of accommodation 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.

Regardless of whether you are employing an agency via your personal budget or employing an agency directly (without an assessment from the council), the agency should always carry out their own assessment before offering their own care plan. 25

NURSING HOMES Nursing Homes

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Nursing Homes

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Nursing Homes

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Nursing Homes

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Data correct with CQC

Brackenley Residential Care Home Personalised residential care and super-supported living arrangements, adult day care and life-skills education.

Whatever your needs, talk to us about the possibilities: 01423 593719 26

Providin support ong individual b an as achieve lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;is to s goals

RESIDENTIAL HOMES Residential Home

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Residential Home

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Data correct with CQC 27

RESIDENTIAL HOMES Residential Home

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Residential Home

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Hampden House

CARE

Providing Specialist Residential Care

Leading provider of residential care for adults with autism and learning disabilities

Award winning residential care for the elderly

Action for Care is a company providing high quality accommodation with personal care (residential care) for individuals who have a learning disability with additional complex needs which may include autism or behaviours which may challenge. Our services are all located in beautifully appointed houses within local communities across North and West Yorkshire each providing 24 hour support for a maximum of 6 to 8 individuals. Our objective is to provide a holistic approach to develop people’s independence and to enjoy the everyday experiences and opportunities provided by the local and wider community.

• Purpose-built to meet the needs of our residents. • All bedrooms have a 24hr call system, telephone and TV points, with the option of Sky TV. • A full range of specialist bathing and hoisting equipment to meet the individual needs of all our residents. • In addition to long-term care, we offer convalescent, palliative and respite care. To arrange a visit please contact Dawn Kilvington, Admissions Manager

Tel: 01423 566964

We are enrolled on the Autism Accreditation Programme through the National Autistic Society and are actively working towards accreditation.

If you would like to know more or arrange to visit us please contact us:

For additional information about the other Elizabeth Finn homes please visit: www.efhl.co.uk

T. 01757 268646 • E. info@action4care.org www.action4care.org

120 Duchy Road | Harrogate | North Yorkshire | HG1 2HE

Data correct with CQC 28

CARE IN YOUR OWN HOME

Domiciliary Care Agencies

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Domiciliary Care Agencies

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Domiciliary Care Agencies

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Data correct with CQC 29

CARE IN YOUR OWN HOME

Domiciliary Care Agencies

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

supporting you to go beyond expectations Through our services, people living with sight loss and a range of other disabilities can achieve their ambitions and go beyond expectations. Based in Harrogate, we offer: •Individual learning programmes at our Specialist College •Housing and Support services, including Home Support •Arts & Crafts Centre, providing creative and employability workshops Get in touch:

01423 886451 info@henshaws.org.uk

“ I love living with my friends. Henshaws helps me make it possible. Laura

”

Registered charity no. 221888

Data correct with CQC 30

GPs & GP SURGERIES GPs & GP Surgery

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

GPs & GP Surgery

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

GPs & GP Surgery

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

GPs & GP Surgery

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

Data correct with NHS Choices 31

PHARMACIES Pharmacy / Chemist

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

Pharmacy / Chemist

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

Pharmacy / Chemist

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

Pharmacy / Chemist

Address

Disctrict

Postcode

Telephone

Data correct with NHS Choices 32

DENTISTS Dentist

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Dentist

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Dentist

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Dentist

Address

District

Postcode

Telephone

Data correct with NHS Choices 33

OPTICIANS Opticians

Address

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Telephone

Opticians

Address

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Telephone

Opticians

Address

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Postcode

Telephone

Opticians

Address

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Telephone

Harrogateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Women Only 30 Minute Workout Venue

01423 536102

E FRpEhobics

ymo

G alth M Call now on He www.gymophobics.co.uk/Gyms/Harrogate

Data correct with NHS Choices 34

EXPRESSING COMPLAINTS & CONCERNS

The right to complain or give feedback about an unsatisfactory service is a key consumer right.

Stage Two: If you are still not happy, you can raise the complaint with the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.

WHEN SHOULD I COMPLAIN?

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) Millbank Tower, Millbank, London SW1P 4QP Tel: 0345 015 4033 Email: phso.enquiries@ombudsman.org.uk Web: www.ombudsman.org.uk

You should make your complaint as soon as possible. The NHS complaints procedure states that you should make your complaint within 12 months of either the event you are complaining about or as soon as the matter came to your attention. This time limit can be extended as long as the complaint can still be satisfactorily investigated so don’t let this prevent you from contacting NHS England about your complaint.

The PHSO undertakes independent investigations into complaints alleging that government departments and other public bodies in the UK, including NHS England, have not acted properly or fairly or have provided a poor service.

If you are unsure of the complaints process, you can ask the provider to give you a copy of the complaints procedure for the service you are unhappy about. This will tell you who to contact, how they handle your complaint and how they will learn from your complaint.

HOW TO COMPLAIN ABOUT HOSPITALS? Raise problems with the staff in the first instance. Each hospital also has a Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), which is an impartial, open and confidential service for people who would like information and advice about services or help to resolve concerns or problems when they are using the NHS. They provide information about the NHS complaints procedure and how to get independent help if you decide you want to make a complaint.

Please note that service providers and commissioners welcome all feedback from clients. The same contact details can also be used if you are pleased with the Service(s) you have used.

HOW TO COMPLAIN ABOUT NHS

The Patient Advice and Liaison Service may be contacted on:

TREATMENT INCLUDING: GPs, Dentists, Pharmacies and Opticians

Telephone: 01609 763131 or freephone 0800 028 2462

Stage One:

We are here during office hours, though we may be busy helping other people. If no-one is available to take your call please leave a message on our answer phone and we will ring you back. We aim to return all messages, where possible, within two working days.

You can either complain directly to the provider of the service through their processes e.g. to the Practice Manager at your GP Surgery or you can complain directly to the commissioner (funder) of the Service i.e. NHS England. NHS England PO Box 16738, Redditch B97 9PT

or in writing to: North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust, Friarage Hospital, Bullamoor Road, Northallerton DL6 1JG

Tel: 0300 311 2233 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, excluding English Bank Holidays) Email: england.contactus@nhs.net Please write ‘For the attention of the Complaints Manager’ in the subject line. Website: www.england.nhs.uk

Supporting you if you have a complaint

North Yorkshire

We can explain the complaints procedures of service providers in our area or refer you to our Independent Complaints Advocacy service.

Tel: 01904 621631 • Email: healthwatchny@nbforum.org.uk • www.healthwatchnorthyorkshire.co.uk 35

EXPRESSING COMPLAINTS & CONCERNS

HOW TO COMPLAIN ABOUT ADULT SOCIAL CARE SERVICES?

If you think an NHS practitioner or Healthcare Provider has been guilty of professional misconduct, you can also complain to their professional or regulatory body.

If your complaint is about an adult social care service provider, you can contact them directly. This will give the care service the chance to resolve any problem you may have and put things right for you.

The main healthcare professional regulators in England are:

However, if your complaint refers to an adult social care service funded by North Yorkshire Council, you can raise any concerns by the following ways:

The General Medical Council. Tel: 0161 923 6602 Email: gmc@gmc-uk.org www.gmc-uk.org

Going online at: www.northyorks.gov.uk Email: social.care@northyorks.gov.uk

The Nursing and Midwifery Council. Tel: 020 7637 7181 Email: newreferrals@nmc-uk.org www.nmc-uk.org

Phone us on: 0845 034 9410 Write to us at: North Yorkshire County Council, County Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 8AD

The General Dental Council. Tel: 020 7167 6000 Email: information@gdc-uk.org www.gdc-uk.org

HOW TO COMPLAIN ABOUT CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S, YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILY SERVICES? Going online at: www.safeguardingchildren.co.uk Email: social.care@northyorks.gov.uk

The General Optical Council. Tel: 020 75803898 Email: goc@optical.org www.optical.org

Phone us on: 01609 780780 Write to us at: North Yorkshire Safeguarding Children Board South Block NYCC, County Hall, Racecourse Lane, Northallerton DL7 8AE

The General Pharmaceutical Council. Tel: 0203 713 7950 Email: concerns@pharmacyregulation.org www.pharmacyregulation.org

If you are not satisfied with the final reply you get from the care service or your local council, you have the right to ask the Local Government Ombudsman to investigate your complaint.

The General Osteopathic Council. Tel: 020 7357 6655 Email: contactus@osteopathy.org.uk www.osteopathy.org.uk

Local Government Ombudsman PO Box 4771, Coventry CV4 0EH Tel: 0300 061 0614 Use the on-line complaints form at: www.lgo.org.uk The LGO Website provides a range of detailed guidance on making a complaint.

The General Chiropractic Council. Tel: 020 77135155 Email: enquiries@gcc-uk.org www.gcc-uk.org

Care Quality Commission (CQC) The CQC checks that hospitals, care homes, GPs, Dentists and services in your home are meeting national standards. They do not investigate complaints, but they welcome feedback and concerns about health and social care services. CQC National Customer Service Centre Citygate, Gallowgate, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 4PA Tel: 03000 61 6161 Use their on-line form: www.cqc.org.uk This Website also gives detailed guidance on how to complain. 36

North Yorkshire

Good or bad, we want to hear what you think about the health and social care services you use in North Yorkshire GPs, dentists, care homes, hospitals, and any other health service; we want to hear your experiences so that we can work with providers to improve and spread good practice.

North Yorkshire

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had a positive experience or there is room for improvement, have your say on the Healthwatch North Yorkshire website today.

www.healthwatchnorthyorkshire.co.uk or call us on:

01904 621631 Healthwatch North Yorkshire: 2A St Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lane, York YO1 6LN Email: healthwatchny@nbforum.org.uk