When choosing a care home for a loved one, it’s not just the facilities, food, or location that matter; what truly defines quality care are the values practiced every day by the staff. In the UK, the 6 C’s of care Care, Compassion, Competence, Communication, Courage, and Commitment—form the foundation of safe, respectful, and person-centred support.
But how can families be sure that a care home actually follows these principles? Whether you’re searching in Birmingham, London, or anywhere in the UK, this guide will help you understand what to look for.
What Are the 6 C’s of Quality Care?
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Before evaluating a care home, it’s important to know what the 6 C’s in health and social care are and why they matter.
| Principle | Description | Signs to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Care | Providing support that’s personalised, respectful, and safe | Resident feedback, clear care plans, positive atmosphere |
| Compassion | Treating residents with kindness, empathy, and dignity | Attentive staff, respectful tone, genuine interactions |
| Competence | Staff have up-to-date training and knowledge | Visible staff qualifications, ongoing training, confidence in procedures |
| Communication | Listening to residents and keeping families informed | Open dialogue, clear documentation, family involvement |
| Courage | Willingness to do the right thing, even when difficult | Transparent complaints process, staff that speak up |
| Commitment | Ongoing dedication to improving quality of care | Low staff turnover, strong leadership, clear improvement plans |
How to Check if a Care Home Applies the 6 C’s
Whether visiting in person or reviewing reports, here are the best ways to make sure a care home follows the 6 Cs of quality care:
1. Review the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Report
Check for mentions of compassionate care, staff training, communication practices, and person-centred approaches.
2. Observe Staff Interactions
During a visit, watch how carers speak to and engage with residents. Are they kind? Patient? Do they listen attentively?
3. Ask About Staff Training
A good home will be proud of their training programmes. Ask if they include modules on communication, dementia care, and safeguarding.
4. Speak With Current Residents or Families
They’ll often give honest feedback about whether the care feels respectful and compassionate.
5. Look for Clear, Individualised Care Plans
These show that the home treats residents as individuals, not as numbers.
Local Insight: Birmingham and London Care Homes
In Birmingham, homes in areas like Edgbaston, Selly Oak, and Moseley often reflect the city’s commitment to diverse, compassionate care. Check that local care providers incorporate community values and cultural understanding into their approach.
In London, particularly across boroughs like Camden, Lambeth, and Islington, care homes are expected to meet high standards. Larger homes may have structured staff development programmes—ask how they monitor communication skills and resident satisfaction.
FAQ:
What are the most important values in a care home?
Care, compassion, communication, competence, courage, and commitment are essential in ensuring respectful, safe, and effective support.
How can I tell if a care home has compassionate staff?
Observe interactions between staff and residents. Ask about resident feedback and involvement in decision-making.
Is staff training part of the 6 Cs of care?
Yes. Competence is one of the core principles, and staff should undergo regular training and continued professional development.
Are there specific standards care homes in the UK must follow?
Yes. All care homes are inspected by the CQC, which assesses care quality, safety, responsiveness, and leadership.
Can I visit a care home before making a decision?
Absolutely. In-person visits are one of the best ways to assess whether the home truly lives up to the 6 C’s.
Senior Home Plus: Helping You Choose Quality Care
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about choosing a care home that meets the standards your loved one deserves, Senior Home Plus is here to help.
We provide free, personalised advice to families across Birmingham, London, and beyond. Our consultants will guide you in finding care homes that prioritise the 6 Cs of quality care, offering not just safety but empathy, dignity, and respect.
Contact Senior Home Plus today for expert assistance in selecting a care home that lives by the principles of truly compassionate care.
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