Hi Sheila,

Is the provision of activity compulsory in care homes where all the residents are disabled to some extent or another?

Answered by Sheila Scott

Dear Annita,

Thank you for your question.

Person centred care is a key part of the provision of adult social care in a care home.

To be able to provide person centred care the home needs to record as much information about the individual service user as possible. This will include their previous employment, their hobbies and personal interests over the years.

The development of the person’s care plan should include any personal hobbies or interests that the individual would like to pursue.

The home will be expected to have some group activities as well. This could include some entertainment, some keep fit activities and some group activities such as outings.

There is no direct regulatory requirement but there is much good practice guidance.

Additionally the Care Quality Commission when inspecting an Adult Social Care facility will include activities in their Key Line of Enquiries.

This is what they say:

Their Key Line of Enquiry / prompt asks applies to R1.3

“Where the service is responsible, how are people supported to follow their interests and take part in activities that are socially and culturally relevant and appropriate to them, including in the wider community, and where appropriate, have access to education and work opportunities?”

You can read more of their advice here.

I hope this is helpful.

Best wishes.

Sheila