Healthwatch Rutland wants to hear experiences of people who self-fund social care

A health watchdog is looking into the experience people who self fund their own social care are facing.

Healthwatch Rutland has set up a survey to find out the experiences of people living in the county and will present their findings in a report to the county council, which has responsibility for adult social care.

The body said: “We want to understand what people need to help make decisions about obtaining care and support to live their best lives as they get older and need more help.

People who pay for social care for themselves or for family and friends, also known as ‘self funders’, have assets of a value that exceed the threshold for local authority funding. They may pay for social care such as help around the home, personal help with washing and dressing or care home accommodation.

“We know from public feedback that many people put off planning and paying for social care and support; people have told us that it can be a confusing area to navigate with confidence.”

Throughout this month and January the watchdog will host the online survey which will ask questions such as how useful is the information that is available locally if they are considering making their own social care arrangements and what measures would make it easier for them.

It is also running chat group sessions and offering confidential interviews by phone, Zoom or in-person, so people can share their experiences.

Vice chairperson of Healthwatch Rutland, Jacqui Darlington said: “This is your opportunity to tell us how you have found the process of making decisions about paying for social care and support for yourself or a loved one. As a carer myself, I know how important it is for people with lived experience to be involved in shaping services. This is your chance to help our local providers of care to ensure that the right information and guidance is in place.’

Anyone wishing to share their experiences can complete the online survey, call 01572 720381 or email info@healthwatchrutland.co.uk