Care Homes and Agencies

Advice on care homes, residential homes, nursing homes and finding the right option for you

On this page:

Is a Care Home Right for You?

Housing is often a matter of personal choice, as individuals have different needs. If it's difficult to manage living at home, there are ways you can get help.

There are lots of possibilities to explore and many places you can get advice and more information. For example, would adapting your home be an option in the first instance? Alternatively, West Berkshire Council's 'Shared Lives' scheme may be suitable, helping you to live independently in the community whilst being supported by a shared lives carer.

For some people, supported housing or extra care housing can be good choices that can help them stay as independent as possible. You can find out more about the Extra Care Housing Schemes available in West Berkshire on our Extra Care Housing page.

Nursing Homes, Residential Homes and Care Homes

If you're struggling at home, or recovering from an illness or injury, you might think about moving into a care home. It's important to consider what other options are available first, as there are various types of care homes for different support needs.

In a residential care home you can get 24 hour help with your personal care.

Care homes with nursing provide the same services as residential homes but there are qualified nurses on site at all times if you need regular medical attention, due to illness or a medical condition.

Some care homes offer both types of support. This can be a good option if your condition is likely to get worse over time.

West Berkshire Council run and provide three care homes, which you can find out about on our West Berkshire Council Care Homes page.

Please see our Care Needs Assessment and Eligibility page if you need advice and support in identifying what help you need.

Care Home Placement Policy

The Icon for pdf Residential and Nursing Care Placement Policy for Older People [174KB] describes West Berkshire Council's approach to new residential and nursing home placements, principally for Older People (65 plus), where such a placement is required to meet a person's assessed care and support needs.

This policy does not apply to existing placements.

Choosing a Care Home If You Are Self Funding

Some people prefer to make their own arrangements. You can find useful information about care homes in the Icon for pdf Berkshire Care Directory [4MB] . This is an independent guide which is updated annually. All of these homes can be paid for privately.

You can find helpful information on our Planning How to Pay for Future Adult Social Care and Funding Your Care webpages.

You can also find useful information in our Icon for pdf Charges for Residential Care leaflet [721KB] . It is advisable to seek independent advice. Age UK also produce helpful downloadable factsheets, covering the subjects of finding, choosing and funding a care home.

Monitoring Care Homes

All residential and nursing care homes, providers and agencies are monitored by the Council's Care Quality Team. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) regularly inspect and check standards in registered care homes.

Paying for Your Care

You can find more information on our Paying for Your Care webpages, or you can get in touch with us for help and guidance.