A new resource has been launched today to help family and friends engage in the care planning process for older adults living in care homes. Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration and led by Applied Research Collaboration Kent, Surrey and Sussex (ARC KSS), the new Family and Friends Guide to Care Planning is designed to help relatives better understand and take part in the care planning process for older adults living in care homes.
The guide provides clear and accessible explanations of what a care plan is, why it is important, and the key information it should include. It also describes when care plans should be developed and reviewed, the importance of family and friend involvement and ways to become involved in the care planning process.
Developed in partnership with ARC North West Coast, ARC West, ARC Oxford and Thames Valley, ARC North Thames, the University of Kent, University of Liverpool, University of Oxford, University of Bristol and the London School of Economics and Political Science, the guide aims to help family and friends feel informed, empowered and confident when contributing to the care planning process, particularly while supporting a person move into a care home, which can be a challenging time.
The publication complements an existing suite of care planning resources:
- Quick guide to effective care planning with older care home residents – a concise tool to help create meaningful, quality-of-life-enhancing care plans.
- Steps to effective care planning in older adult care homes – a detailed guide offering practical guidance and examples. View the PDF version here.
- Care Planning Poster – a handy care planning poster offers top tips to help make a difference - suitable for staff rooms or spaces where care home staff, residents and family members will see it.
Together, these materials provide a comprehensive package to support care providers, and family and friends, to help ensure that older adults living in care homes receive consistent and person‑centred care.
