2.2 Provide an individual and others with information about the proposed new home environment

This guide will help you answer 2.2 Provide an individual and others with information about the proposed new home environment.

It’s important to make sure that both the individual and those supporting them—such as family, friends, and carers—have clear, accurate information about the new home. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety, builds confidence, and helps everyone prepare for the move. As a care worker, your role is to share information in a way that’s understandable and relevant to the person’s situation.

Giving Details of the Property

Start with the basic facts about the new home. This includes:

• The full address and a map
• Contact details for staff, managers, or reception (if relevant)
• Type of accommodation (for example, supported living, residential care, shared housing, or a flat)
• The size and layout of the home—number of bedrooms, bathrooms, communal areas
• Accessibility features, such as ramps, lifts, adapted bathrooms, or alarm systems
• Rules about pets, visitors, and personal possessions

Let the person and their supporters visit the property if possible. If a visit is not possible, provide photographs, a floor plan, or a virtual tour.

Description of Support and Services

Explain what support is available at the new home. Cover topics such as:

• Staff presence—are carers available 24 hours a day, or only at set times?
• Key workers or main contacts for the individual
• Help with daily living, such as meals, medication, personal care, or housework
• Emergency protocols and safety measures
• Access to medical care and how to register with local GPs or clinics
• Activities and community involvement available in or near the home
• Onsite facilities (laundry, gardens, lounges, etc.)

Always tailor this information to match the person’s needs and preferences.

Financial and Legal Details

It is important to provide clear information about money and legal matters:

• Weekly or monthly costs—such as rent, utility bills, food, and any service charges
• What is covered by benefits or funding
• Details of tenancy, residency agreement, or contract—rights, responsibilities, and notice periods
• Who to talk to about financial worries or changes to benefits

Offer leaflets, easy-read versions, or help from advocates, if these make things clearer.

Daily Routines and House Rules

Daily life is often shaped by the routines and rules of a new home. Share relevant details such as:

• Typical meal times and menu options
• Bedtimes or required “quiet times”
• Arrangements for visitors, overnight stays, or holidays
• Arrangements for laundry, cleaning, and maintenance
• Policies on smoking, alcohol, or personal electronics

Support the individual in asking questions or raising concerns about anything that might affect their comfort or dignity.

Introducing Key People and Other Residents

Knowing who else lives or works in the new home helps reduce worry about settling in.

Share:

• Names, photographs, and roles of key staff
• Introductions or “welcome packs” with information about other residents
• Information about opportunities to meet neighbours or make friends

If appropriate, arrange an introductory visit or informal meet-and-greet before the move.

Local Area Information

Help the individual and their supporters understand what’s nearby:

• Shops, supermarkets, or places of worship
• Public transport stops and routes
• Local parks, social clubs, or community centres
• Health services: GPs, pharmacies, hospitals, and dentists
• Safety of the area, including lighting and local crime rates

Give out maps, brochures, and contact details for important services.

Communicating the Information

Use a range of methods to communicate, and check that the information meets everyone’s needs:

• Face-to-face conversations, with time for questions and discussion
• Written booklets, welcome guides, and information sheets
• Photographs, videos, or pictorial resources for visual learners
• Translated materials or interpreters, where needed
• Easy-read or large print formats
• Assistance from advocates, speech and language therapists, or family members

After sharing the information, always check understanding. Give people time to revisit the details and ask further questions.

Keeping Information Updated

Circumstances and care settings can change. Make sure that:

• Any updates (such as a change in staff, routines, or repairs to the property) are shared as soon as possible
• Individuals know who to contact if they have further questions or concerns
• Information is regularly reviewed and refreshed as people settle in or if their needs change

Supporting Discussion and Decision Making

Being fully informed allows the individual and their supporters to talk through concerns and make decisions together. Encourage open discussion about:

• Hopes and worries about the new home
• Preparations needed for the move
• Any adaptations required (for culture, language, disability, or personal preference)
• Setting up preferences for routines, meals, or hobbies

Supporting people to make choices and express concerns shows respect and builds trust.

Practical Example

You might support an individual called Sarah who is moving to a supported living flat. To help Sarah and her family, you:

• Give them a welcome pack with photos, a floor plan, and an introduction to staff
• Explain how support visits will work and who her keyworker will be
• Show Sarah and her family where the local pharmacy and shops are located
• Run through daily routines, meal choices, and rules about visitors
• Answer questions about costs, benefits, and tenancy agreements
• Arrange for Sarah to meet new neighbours during a coffee morning before moving in

By carefully providing clear, tailored information, you help Sarah and her loved ones to feel valued, prepared, and supported throughout the move.

Final Thoughts

Giving accurate, person-focused information about the proposed new home makes the transition smoother for the individual and their supporters. Use a mix of verbal and written resources, offer practical details, and create opportunities for questions. This approach builds trust, confidence, and a smooth settling-in process.