A support worker looking through a photo album with an elderly man living with dementia. — Knowledge CentreClear, practical guidance written for families making care decisions.

Knowledge Centre

Clear answers, when everything feels uncertain

Short, honest guides written for families. Every guide links to the official source, so you can check entitlements and current figures for yourself.

Choosing careChoosing care: where to startA calm, step-by-step way to work out what kind of support is needed before you speak to any provider. 5 min read
Paying for carePaying for care: how funding worksThe routes families use to pay for care — council support, NHS funding and private arrangements — and how they fit together. 6 min read
Choosing careHospital discharge: arranging care quicklyWhat to expect when care has to be arranged in days, and how to keep control of the decision. 5 min read
Types of careDementia care: what good looks likeHow to judge whether a provider genuinely understands dementia, beyond the word on the website. 6 min read
Types of careLive-in care explainedHow live-in care works day to day, and the questions that reveal whether it will suit your family. 5 min read
Types of careRespite care and breaks for carersShort-term care that gives family carers a break — planned or at short notice. 4 min read
Types of careHome care: visiting support at homeHow visiting home care is arranged, what visits include, and how to keep quality consistent. 5 min read
Types of careResidential care homesWhat residential care provides, and how to compare homes without spending weeks on it. 5 min read
Types of careNursing homes and complex careWhen registered nursing on site is necessary, and what to check before moving. 5 min read
Types of careSupported livingSupport with your own tenancy — how it differs from residential care. 4 min read
Paying for careNHS Continuing HealthcareA package fully funded by the NHS for adults with significant ongoing health needs. 5 min read
Paying for careAttendance AllowanceA benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care. 4 min read
Paying for careCarer's Allowance and carer supportFinancial and practical support for people caring for a family member or friend. 4 min read
Legal & safeguardingLasting Power of AttorneyHow to give a trusted person legal authority to make decisions if someone loses capacity. 5 min read
Legal & safeguardingSafeguarding: raising a concern about careWhat to do if you are worried that someone receiving care is not safe or well treated. 4 min read

15 guides · Written for families in England. Rules differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.