The official terminology for care homes in England
In the UK, and specifically in England, the term “nursing home” is still used colloquially but was officially replaced in 2002 by the term 'care home with nursing'. This change was made to create a clearer distinction between residential care facilities and those that provide a higher, more clinical level of medical support. When you see a reference to a 'care home', it is a general term that encompasses both types of facilities, so it's important to understand the specific type of care being offered.
- Care Home (Residential Care Home): These facilities provide a supportive, homely environment for people who can no longer live independently but do not have significant or complex medical needs. Residents receive assistance with daily tasks, often referred to as 'personal care'.
- Care Home with Nursing (Nursing Home): This type of home is for individuals with more complex and continuous medical needs. A qualified registered nurse is on duty 24/7 to provide medical care, administer medication, and monitor health conditions.
Key differences between residential care and nursing care
Knowing the differences between residential care and nursing care is essential for making the right decision for yourself or a loved one. The key distinctions lie in the level of medical support, the expertise of the staff, and the environment.
| Feature | Care Home (Residential) | Care Home with Nursing (Nursing) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Support | Primarily personal care, not complex medical care. | 24/7 medical supervision and care by a registered nurse. |
| Staff Expertise | Care assistants trained to support daily living activities. | Qualified nurses on staff at all times, alongside care assistants. |
| Ideal for | Individuals needing help with bathing, dressing, and mobility, but with no complex health issues. | Individuals with chronic illnesses, advanced dementia, or recovering from serious medical events. |
| Cost | Generally less expensive, covering accommodation and personal care. | More expensive due to the higher level of medical staffing and equipment. |
| Funding | May be funded by the local council based on a financial assessment. | May be eligible for NHS-funded nursing care (FNC) towards the nursing portion of fees. |
What to expect in a UK care home
Life in a residential care home
Residential homes are designed to feel like a community, focusing on social interaction and a comfortable atmosphere. Residents typically have their own rooms, but share communal lounges and dining areas. The staff assists with daily living activities, including washing, dressing, and managing medication. Activities are a central part of life, with many homes offering a varied programme of events, outings, and entertainment to promote wellbeing and social connection.
Life in a care home with nursing
For those with more complex medical requirements, a care home with nursing provides the necessary clinical support in a residential setting. While the environment is similar to a residential home, the key difference is the constant presence of qualified medical staff. This enables residents to receive round-the-clock medical monitoring, wound care, and other treatments without the need for hospitalisation. Many nursing homes also offer specialist care for conditions like advanced dementia or complex physical disabilities.
Finding a nursing home in England
Finding the right care home begins with a comprehensive assessment of the individual's needs. Here is a step-by-step guide to the process:
- Request a Care Needs Assessment: Contact your local council's social care department to arrange a needs assessment. A social worker will evaluate the individual's care requirements to determine the most suitable type of support. This is a crucial step, regardless of how the care will be funded.
- Conduct a Financial Assessment: If the needs assessment indicates a care home is the best option, the council will perform a financial assessment to determine if they can provide funding assistance.
- Use Official Resources: The Care Quality Commission (CQC) website is an invaluable tool for finding and researching local care homes in England. The CQC regulates and inspects all care homes, providing ratings that can help you assess the quality of a facility.
- Visit Prospective Homes: It is highly recommended to visit several homes to get a feel for the atmosphere, meet the staff, and speak to other residents. You can also request to see their most recent CQC inspection report.
- Seek Expert Advice: Organisations like Age UK can provide independent advice and support throughout the process of choosing and funding a care home.
Funding care in England
Understanding how care homes are funded in England is a key consideration, as costs can vary significantly.
- Self-Funding: If your capital exceeds £23,250 (as of April 2025 rates), you will be expected to pay for your own care as a 'self-funder'.
- Local Council Funding: If your capital is below the financial limit, the local council can help pay for some or all of your fees based on a financial assessment. You will still be required to contribute from your income.
- NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC): If you are in a care home with nursing, the NHS pays a flat rate directly to the home to cover the nursing care portion of the fees. This is not means-tested.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): This is a complete funding package from the NHS that covers all care costs, including accommodation, for individuals with a 'primary health need'. Eligibility is determined through a detailed assessment process.
Regulation and standards of care
All care and nursing homes in England are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC is an independent body that inspects facilities to ensure they meet essential standards of quality and safety. They provide public reports and ratings, ranging from 'Inadequate' to 'Outstanding', which can be accessed via their website. Regular inspections and public ratings ensure accountability and help families make informed decisions about care providers.
For more detailed information on regulations and assessments, it is recommended to visit the official NHS website on social care.
Conclusion
Yes, England has nursing homes, but they are officially referred to as 'care homes with nursing' to distinguish them from residential care homes. The main difference lies in the provision of 24-hour medical care by qualified nurses in a nursing home setting. For families navigating senior care, understanding this terminology is the first step. By undergoing a needs assessment, researching CQC ratings, and exploring funding options like FNC and CHC, it is possible to find a suitable and high-quality care solution that meets the specific needs of your loved one.
