Local authority support to self-funders

At the height of the pandemic Polly’s former residential home would not accept her back as a resident on discharge from a dementia specialist hospital unit, citing their inability to safely meet her care needs.

I am so pleased I joined you as a member, you’re doing an amazing job

The situation was further complicated as Polly had other health complications which meant she was unable to take the Covid 19 vaccination, and services had a ‘no jab no entry’ policy. As a self-funder, Polly’s daughter, Diane, was trying to arrange the care and was not given any assistance by the local authority when she reached out to them for support.

Diane rang us and spoke to the helpline. Several options were discussed, including the power for local authorities under the Care Act statutory guidance to arrange care home placements for privately funded residents.

Diane rang her mother’s local authority the next day and quoted the relevant part of the statutory guidance to them. They changed their minds immediately and agreed to help.

This was the first time Diane had contacted our helpline, although she had previously joined as a member in support of our work. Diane rang to thank us and said ‘’I am so pleased I joined you as a member, you’re doing an amazing job’’.