Here at Just Caring Legal, a solicitor’s firm specialising in NHS Continuing Health Care (NHS CHC), we welcome the recent coverage of the Your Voice Matters campaign. It has shown how some residential care homes are banning relatives from visiting residents after they complain about the quality of care. In response, the Care Quality Commission has released new information for families clarifying their rights and the CQC’s expectations of providers.
This is an important development. Building and maintaining a positive relationship with your loved one’s care home is vital when fighting for NHS CHC. This is why.
Your own knowledge is key when applying for NHS CHC
Many people don’t realise that those with a “primary health need” should have their full care fees paid through NHS CHC. But how do you establish a primary health need? Clear evidence is the key. No-one will ever know your loved one as well as you do. No doubt you have an encyclopaedic knowledge of their health, their conditions, their history. It is hard to overstate how important this is when applying for NHS CHC. Every fall, every pressure sore, every TIA counts. If your loved one is already in care, regular visits are vital. It is the only way you can maintain a full picture of their needs. And unless you have a photographic memory, keep a detailed visit journal. This will help you ensure everything is taken into account when the decisions get made.
You need to ensure the care home records present the full picture
NHS CHC decisions often rely heavily on the records kept by the care home. But sometimes these may not be as detailed as they should be. Maybe the carers are too busy, or want to present a positive picture of their care. For this reason, you should ask to see the records regularly. Compare and cross-reference them with your journal. Politely point out if you think something needs to be added. Bear in mind most carers want to do the best job they can so be constructive. If this doesn’t work, request a meeting with the care manager.
You need the inside knowledge of the regular care staff
Your loved one’s regular carers will have the best knowledge of their ongoing state of health. If you build a positive relationship with them they can help you build a full day-to-day picture. Listen carefully to what they have to say and remain respectful and polite. Encourage them (gently) to “say it like it is” – but be aware they have a job to keep. Ask questions but don’t badger – they are very busy people. Be realistic in your expectations of the care they provide. And make it clear you are on their side. If there are any ‘grey areas’, we reiterate that the Care Quality Commission has released new information for families clarifying their rights and the CQC’s expectations of providers.
Choosing Just Caring Legal to act on your behalf will maximise your chances of receiving NHS CHC. We can also help you seek a refund if you have already paid care fees. Contact us today on 01915 561 078 or email [email protected] for more information and a free initial assessment.