Choosing care for yourself or a loved one is a big decision. Use this free checklist when comparing home care providers and care homes, tick things off as you go, and print it to take to visits.
Before you start
- Request a free needs assessment from your local council.
- Ask for a financial assessment to see what funding you qualify for.
- Check benefits: Attendance Allowance, Pension Credit, Carer's Allowance.
- Agree a realistic weekly budget and who will manage finances.
- Decide what matters most: staying at home, location, specialisms (e.g. dementia).
Choosing a home care or live-in provider
- Check the latest CQC rating and report (or your nation's regulator).
- Will you see the same regular carers? How is cover arranged for holidays/sickness?
- Are carers employed and trained by the agency, with DBS checks?
- Is the price, minimum visit length and notice period clear in writing?
- How are care plans reviewed, and how do you raise concerns?
Visiting a care home
- Visit more than once, including unannounced and at mealtimes.
- Do residents look well cared for, occupied and content?
- Is the home clean and free of unpleasant odours?
- Are staff warm, and is there enough of them, including at night?
- Try the food; check choices and help at mealtimes.
- What activities and outings are on offer?
- Can residents personalise rooms and have visitors freely?
- How are medical needs and emergencies handled?
Questions to ask about fees
- What exactly does the weekly fee include, and what costs extra?
- How often do fees rise, and by how much historically?
- What happens if funds run out or funding status changes?
- Is a top-up required, and who pays it?
- What are the notice and refund terms?
Red flags to watch for
- Reluctance to share the latest inspection report or let you visit freely.
- High staff turnover or heavy use of agency staff.
- Vague or evasive answers on fees and increases.
- Residents left alone, unkempt, or call bells going unanswered.
- Pressure to sign or pay a deposit quickly.
Check the regulator
- England: Care Quality Commission (CQC).
- Scotland: Care Inspectorate.
- Wales: Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW).
- Northern Ireland: RQIA.
A general guide to help you compare care, not a substitute for professional or regulatory advice. Last reviewed June 2026.