Ask for a Service User Guide. It should include details of: services; terms and conditions; the total fee; fees and charges for extra services, such as hairdressing; financial arrangements for people funded all or in part, by the local authority or primary care trust and the qualifications and experience of staff. You should also see: a copy of the home’s most recent inspection report by the regulator (Care Quality Commission) and the regulator’s contact details; a copy of its complaints procedure and an example of a contract.

Request a Resident’s Guide. It should include: fees and payment methods; the home’s philosophy of care; terms and conditions and contact details for the home’s regulator. It should also contain a sample contract and a complaints procedure summary. Separately, on request, each home should provide its most recent inspection report.

Ask for the home’s Introductory Pack. This should clearly explain: the moving-in process; fees and the services covered; accommodation; arrangements if private funding runs out; rules, rights and responsibilities; the home’s philosophy and its complaints procedure. It should also refer to the most recent inspection report.

Request a Service User Guide. In it, you should find a description of: fees; accommodation and services; qualifications and experience of staff; gender of those providing care; special needs and interests catered for; the home’s policy on pets and contacts for the regulator, local social services and health authorities.

Also expect: a copy or summary of the most recent inspection report and complaints procedure; a summary of the home’s most recent care quality review report and a sample contract.