hi there

Unfortunately the time has come when I need to look for residential homes for my mum. Are they all bad? Has anyone got any good experiences they can share with me to narrow my search a little.

Thanks

(First time user)

My mum works at Prior Bank at Nether Edge. It's lovely and each resident gets their own flat etc.
01142552115

I've spoken to some of the staff and a friend of a resident from the one on Beighton Rd, Woodhouse. That seems to be very nice. They seem to be quite flexible and accommodating too.

Avoid all local authority homes. None are up to current standards on fire precautions and there are severe failings throughout the system. You may like to know that the local authority inspect all private homes twice a year in minute detail. They don't inspect their own homes at all - why?- because they would be found lacking.

The local authority will possibly fund something towards a private home stay - note they will pay less to a private home than to one of their own. A bit unfair....

If you seek their advice you will find the social services will push you towards a council home (rather than private). They have been instructed to do that by the SS chiefs.

Talk to staff and old folk at each home you inspect. A typical good example will have en suite toilet etc. Inpsect the kitchen and laundry yourself. A good home will be pleased to show you round - they will be proud of their building and staff. Try and find one with several smaller lounges / dining rooms rather than one giant lounge / dining room.

All rooms including lounges etc should have a call system to summon staff. See if they have a print out system for these calls. If it ever came to be needed you would be able to see that Mum pressed the call at a certain time and the staff came to the room (cancelling the call button) say 1 minute and 10 seconds later.

Be aware of the difference between a residential home and a care home (which includes some degree of nursing).

An obvious point - choose one you can get to easily, assuming you do want to make regular visits.

Good luck with the search.