FAQs

Find the answers to questions frequently asked by the people we support, family members and healthcare professionals.

Can I contact Lifeways directly?

Yes you can contact us and arrange a visit to one of our services however you will need to have an allocated social worker or an individual personal budget in place before we can proceed with an assessment. A family member of representative can also contact us on your behalf.

How do you know whether you can support me or my relative?

You must contact your GP or social worker in the first instance who will arrange an assessment.

I have a personal budget/individual payment – can I use this to access my support?

Lifeways are equipped to deal with any source of funding and are used to dealing with people with individual budgets.

Can I have a say in choosing my support and where I will live?

Yes we will carry out an assessment based on your individual needs, taking into account your well-being and desired outcomes. It is your decision to accept the placement offered to you and your choices will be discussed with you throughout the process.

Where can I find the CQC report for my local area?

The Care Quality Commission monitor, inspect and regulate health and social care services. All our offices are registered with the CQC and you can access reports on their website www.cqc.org.uk.

Can I visit before I move into my flat/house?

Yes of course however to ensure that someone can show you round you will need to call and arrange a time for your visit.

Is there someone I can talk to or get help when I need it?

Most of our services have a member of staff on site at all times and there will always be someone you can contact. Our flat schemes are fitted with on call systems as standard so you can reach someone easily should the need arise.

Can friends and family visit whenever they choose?

Yes, friends and family are welcome to visit, although if they wish to speak to a member of the management team it is advisable to make an appointment beforehand to make sure they are available.

What happens if my level of care changes?

We continually assess and review each person’s needs to ensure we are providing the correct level of support. Where possible our aim is always to help each person to greater independence.

Can I get help to do the things I love?

Yes, we will help you to access the opportunities, activities and facilities that you enjoy.

Can I personalise my room?

Yes, you can bring your personal possessions and pictures to hang, but to decorate you will need to ask permission from the landlord - we can help you with that.

Can I help with activities within the home such as cooking and cleaning?

Yes, we encourage everyone to fully participate with activities in the home to the best of their abilities.

Can I move from a shared house to a flat of my own?

Yes, if your needs change and you wish greater independence we would help you move as part of your support plan and progress towards more independent living.

Can my partner move into my flat with me?

We support a lot of couples in our service but both must have support needs.

Can I keep a pet?

Yes, depending on the approval of your landlord and as long as you are able to care for your pet yourself.

How long will it be before I can move into my house?

It will usually be between four to six weeks, including two weeks to set up your tenancy. If the situation is urgent, we can complete the process quicker depending on each individual case.

What furniture do I need?

In our flat schemes all white goods are provided, but you will need to provide the rest of your furniture and fittings.

What bills do I need to pay for?

In our flat schemes you will need to pay for all utility bills, telephone, broadband, TV license and contents insurance. In our shared houses, bills are often shared and there may be a household account that people contribute to – please check with each individual location for more details.

How is my rent paid for?

Most people we support will be eligible for housing benefit. Your landlord will often claim for this on your behalf, however where this is not the case we will also be able to assist you to ensure that this is applied for.

Can I smoke in my house/flat?

Most of our accommodation is non-smoking. There will usually be a designated smoking area outside the property.