How do I choose a home that cares for people with an acquired brain injury?

We understand that choosing the right specialist centre for your friend or relative can be a very daunting experience. Below are some suggestions on where to start:

  • Contact your local Headway www.headway.org.uk, Solicitor, GP, Social Worker or funder. They should be able to recommend a service.
  • Search for a specialist unit on the internet by looking on the UKABIF website www.ukabif.org.uk or contact your local Acquired Brain Injury Forum, details of which you can get from the UKABIF site.
  • Research the specialist home by visiting their website and reading the reports from the regulatory body, the Care Quality Commission (CQC). You can access these reports via the CQC’s website www.cqc.org.uk 
  • Visit the potential homes to see first-hand the facilities on offer and to meet staff and other residents.

You might want to consider asking the following questions:

  • What is the quality of care provided?
  • What therapies are available?
  • What activities are available?
  • Are visiting times flexible?
  • What are the facilities like – do the bedrooms have en-suites; are there communal areas; is there a garden?
  • Does the home take into account residents’ specific cultural and religious needs?