Choice of Accommodation Policy

The Choice of Accommodation Policy applies to older adults and, in some cases, younger adults requiring permanent care home accommodation. It sets out the conditions under which individuals can choose their preferred care home, including the availability of placements that meet assessed needs and fall within the Council’s funding parameters.

Key features of the policy include:

• A structured offer process, beginning with block bed contracts and followed by accredited care homes.
• Clear guidance on top-up payments for more expensive placements.
• Support for self-funders under specific circumstances.
• Defined timeframes for choosing a care home to avoid delays in care provision.
• Assurance that placements will only be made in homes rated Excellent, Good or Requires Improvement by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The policy was developed following extensive engagement with stakeholders, including care providers across Suffolk, NHS colleagues, and Healthwatch, which will continue to support public engagement.