The Scottish Government

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Part 1: Introduction

This booklet is for people who may need to move into a care home and their carers and relatives.

If you are in that position, this leaflet explains:

• how your local social work service can help you;
• your right to have your care needs assessed;
• your right to choose the care home you want to live in;
• how the social work service will work out how much you will pay towards the cost; and
• what will happen to your current home.

This booklet is primarily aimed at people considering entering a care home. This type of care will not be suitable for all people. Your social work service will be able to advise you on other types of accommodation and services that are available to help people remain at home.

You may wish to go through this booklet with a relative or carer, or someone who can give you support or advice.

The term 'social work service', used throughout this booklet, refers to the office in your local authority which has responsibility for social welfare services, such as day care and home helps, as well as for care home accommodation. Part 2 of the booklet explains how to contact the social work service.

Further advice is available from your local social work service, from a number of voluntary organisations, and from the homes themselves.

Telephone help-lines are also available.

One of these is Help the Aged's Freephone Senior Line on 0808-8006565. You can also contact Age Concern's Scottish helpline for Older People on 0845 125 9732.

What if I am already in a care home?

This booklet may also be helpful if you are already living in a care home. For example, it includes information about any contribution you make towards the cost of your care, about the resources you should have available for your personal expenses, and about arrangements if you wish to move to a different home.

What if I am in hospital?

Part 3 of this booklet explains further about moving into a care home from hospital.

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