Practical Steps to Manage Care Concerns

When you notice something is not quite right with the care your loved one is receiving, it can feel overwhelming. You want to act, but you might not know where to start. The good news is, there are clear, practical steps you can take to manage care concerns effectively. This guide will walk you through those steps with calm, straightforward advice.

Recognising and Understanding Care Concerns

The first step is to recognise what exactly is worrying you. Care concerns can range from small issues like missed medication doses to more serious problems such as neglect or abuse. It’s important to be clear about what you’ve observed or heard.

Ask yourself:

• Is the care consistent and respectful?

• Are basic needs like hygiene, nutrition, and medication being met?

• Is the environment safe and clean?

• Are staff responsive and attentive?

  
  

Write down specific examples. For instance, if you notice your loved one is often left alone for long periods or seems anxious after visits, these are important details. Keeping a diary or notes can help you track patterns and provide evidence if you need to raise a formal concern.

Sometimes, what feels like poor care might be a misunderstanding or a one-off mistake. But if you see repeated issues, it’s time to take action.

Clean and safe care home environment

How to Manage Care Concerns Effectively

Once you’ve identified your concerns, the next step is to manage them calmly and constructively. Here’s a simple plan you can follow:

1. Speak Up Early

   Don’t wait for problems to escalate. Talk to the care provider directly. Ask for a meeting with the manager or key staff member. Be clear and specific about what you’ve noticed. Use your notes to explain your concerns calmly.

   
   

2. Ask Questions

   Find out how the care home or homecare provider handles issues like yours. What policies do they have? How do they train their staff? Understanding their approach can help you decide your next steps.

   
   

3. Request a Care Review

   Ask for a formal review of your loved one’s care plan. This is a chance to discuss changes and improvements. It also puts your concerns on record.

   
   

4. Keep Records

   Document all conversations, emails, and meetings. This record will be useful if you need to escalate the issue.

   
   

5. Seek Support

   You don’t have to do this alone. Organisations like 2manage concern offer guidance and support for families facing poor care. They can help you understand your rights and options as well as represent you at meetings.

   
   

6. Escalate if Needed

   If the provider does not address your concerns, you can contact the Care Quality Commission (CQC) or local safeguarding teams. They have the authority to investigate and enforce standards.

   
   

Remember, your goal is to improve care, not to create conflict. Approach conversations with respect but be firm about your loved one’s needs.

Keeping detailed notes of care concerns

How to Manage Behaviours of Concern?

Sometimes, care concerns involve behaviours that are challenging or difficult to understand. These might include agitation, aggression, withdrawal, or confusion. Managing these behaviours requires patience and a thoughtful approach.

Here are some practical tips:

• Understand the Cause

Behaviours often have a reason. It could be pain, fear, boredom, or frustration. Try to observe when and where the behaviour happens. Is it linked to certain times of day, people, or activities?

• Communicate Clearly

Use simple language and a calm tone. Sometimes, non-verbal cues like gentle touch or eye contact can help.

• Create a Safe Environment

Remove hazards and reduce noise or distractions. A familiar, comfortable setting can ease anxiety.

• Offer Choices

Giving your loved one control can reduce frustration. For example, ask if they want to wear a blue or green shirt, or if they prefer tea or juice.

• Use Distraction and Redirection

If a behaviour starts to escalate, gently change the subject or suggest a different activity.

• Involve Professionals

Speak to care staff or healthcare providers about behaviour management plans. They may suggest therapies or medications if appropriate.

Managing behaviours of concern is not about punishment or control. It’s about understanding and support.

Knowing When to Seek External Help

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the care situation does not improve. It’s important to recognise when to bring in outside help. This might be necessary if:

• Your loved one’s health or safety is at risk.

• The care provider ignores or dismisses your concerns.

• You notice signs of abuse or neglect.

• You feel overwhelmed and unsure how to proceed.

  
  

In these cases, contacting regulatory bodies like the CQC or local safeguarding teams is essential. They can investigate and take action to protect your loved one.

You can also reach out to advocacy groups or legal advisors who specialise in care issues. They can guide you through complaints processes and help you understand your rights.

Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not failure.

Building a Support Network for Ongoing Care

Managing care concerns is rarely a one-time event. It often requires ongoing attention and support. Building a network around your loved one can make a big difference.

• Family and Friends

Share information and responsibilities. More eyes and ears mean better monitoring.

• Care Staff

Develop a positive relationship with the care team. Open communication helps everyone work together.

• Professional Support

Social workers, nurses, and therapists can provide advice and assistance.

• Community Resources

Local support groups, charities, and online forums offer valuable information and emotional support.

By creating a team, you reduce the burden on yourself and improve the quality of care your loved one receives.

Taking practical steps to manage care concerns can feel daunting, but you are not alone. With clear actions, calm communication, and the right support, you can make a real difference in your loved one’s care experience. Remember, every small step counts towards better care and peace of mind.

2Manage Concern specialises in supporting adults and their families when care falls below expected standards. Providing straightforward, affordable support and advice along with representation. From drafting complaint wording to representing you in meetings, 2Manage Concern's aim is to give you the confidence, clarity, and support you need to achieve the best outcome for your loved one. For more information and how to book a FREE 15 minute consultation, visit our website at https://www.2manage.org/about-1.