Questions

Q: Is Aspen Grange a registered Care Home?

A: Yes, we are. The home is registered with the industry regulator, the Care Quality Commission, to provide care for 49 residents. The services we offer are overseen by our Registered Manager.

Q: How do I check the standards of the care and services that Aspen Grange provides?

A: You can view detailed reports on the standards of all care homes in England, including our own, on the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) website www.cqc.org.uk. The latest CQC report findings are also on display at the care home.

Q: What happens before I move into Aspen Grange Care Home?

A: Our Care Home Manager or a senior member of the care team will make an appointment to visit you at your home or in hospital. During this appointment, we will start to build your care plan. We will carry out an assessment of your care requirements, and work with you to establish the level of independence you feel most comfortable with. This helps us to ensure that your care is tailored to your individual needs and wishes.

Q: Can I have a duvet day if I feel like it?

A: Of course you can! We can arrange for you to have breakfast at a later time whenever you fancy a more relaxing day.

Q: What is a care plan and will I have one?

A: A care plan details the specific care and support that will meet your individual requirements. At Aspen Grange, we will work with you to design a person-centred care plan that fits your specific needs. We will ensure that this is reviewed with you on a regular basis, and you may obtain a copy of your care plan at any time.

Q: Can my friends and family visit me whenever they like?

A: Absolutely. We welcome visitors, including children and grandchildren at any time of the day. We can also arrange Skype calls so that you can keep in touch with long-distance family. We think it is vitally important for your family and friends to visit and to be actively involved in life at Aspen Grange Care Home.

Q: Can I personalise my room?

A: We encourage you to personalise your room. It's your space, and we want you to make it your home. You are welcome to bring pictures, ornaments, and soft furnishings. You may also bring your own furniture, as long as the items are able to fit practically within your bedroom and meet the fire safety regulations.

Q: What happens if I need to see a Doctor, Dentist or Optician?

A: We have an excellent link with the local doctor's surgery. The GP visits Aspen Grange weekly, and whenever needed outside of scheduled visits. We are happy for you to see your own GP if you prefer. We can also arrange visits to the local Opticians and Dental Practices when needed.

Q: Is it possible to have a pet?

A: We would always consider it, though it depends on the care needs of the pet in question.

Q: What is the level of staffing like at Aspen Grange?

A: We have a professional team, many of whom have spent considerable time working at our home. We ensure that our staffing levels are set so that we have sufficient time to care for all our residents' requirements.

Q: How will you reflect my religious and cultural beliefs?

A: At Aspen Grange, we understand and respect your religious, cultural and social beliefs. We have great links to a variety of local places of worship and religious organisations. Your minister, priest, or community leader is welcome to visit you at any time. Where possible, we encourage families and friends to take you to organised services at your place of worship.

Q: Who will look after my medicines?

A: Medicines prescribed by a Doctor are stored in secure medicine cabinets. They are dispensed at the prescribed times by the Care Home Manager or Deputy on duty. If you are able to look after your own medicines this can be arranged.

Q: Will I have a formal contract detailing the terms of Residency?

A: Yes. We have a full and comprehensive contract that has been compiled in accordance with the Office of Fair Trading guidelines to ensure ease of use.

Q: Does Aspen Grange accept residents who are living with dementia?

A: Yes. Our staff have taken part in dementia-specific training and are experienced in supporting residents with dementia.

Q: What is an Advance Directive and do I need one?

A: Advance Directives (also known as living wills) allow you to outline the treatment and care you would like in the future, when you may not be able to communicate your wishes. It is your choice to have one. You may set up an Advance Directive through a solicitor, or fill in a prepared form. Our staff are able to assist you with this. It is wise to involve your doctor when writing your Advance Directive, as they will be able to help you go through the issues involved. We would also recommend including your close friends or relatives in discussions about your Advance Directive. This will help them to understand your wishes. An Advance Directive should be reviewed regularly to ensure it is up-to-date.