Moving into a care home is a significant transition, and ensuring you have everything you need can make the process smoother and more comfortable. While you have the freedom to bring any personal items that hold meaning to you, certain essentials are crucial for your everyday needs and wellbeing.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to bring and pack for your move:

Essentials:

• Toiletries – Pack your preferred toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, and any other personal care items you use daily.
• Sleepwear – Comfortable, familiar sleepwear is essential for a restful night’s sleep. Pack enough sleepwear to last at least a week or two.
• Daywear – Bring two weeks’ worth of daywear, including tops, bottoms, and any other clothing items you typically wear during the day.
• Shoes – Pack both indoor and outdoor shoes to accommodate different activities and environments within the care home.
• Coats – Depending on the climate and season, bring appropriate outerwear such as coats, jackets, or sweaters.
• Medication – Pack all medication in their original boxes with prescription labels to ensure proper administration and safety.
• Glasses and hearing aids – If you wear glasses or hearing aids, ensure you have them packed securely for easy access.
• Mobility aids – If you use mobility aids such as a walker, cane, or wheelchair, make sure to bring them along to maintain your independence and mobility.
• Sanitary products – Stock up on any necessary sanitary products to ensure your comfort and hygiene.
• Personal items – Bring along personal items that bring you comfort or joy, such as photos, books, or keepsakes.
• Bedding – While bedding and towels are provided, you have the option to bring your own bedding if you prefer, a favourite pillow, weighted blanket or towelling robe can make you feel right at home.
• Wash basket – If you prefer to do your own laundry, please bring a wash basket or hamper to keep your dirty clothes organised.
• TV – Check with the care home regarding their policy on bringing a TV. If permitted, ensure it is properly set up for your entertainment.
• Personal technology – You can bring personal technology devices such as mobile phones, tablets, or smart speakers, but they may need to undergo a PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) for safety compliance.

Top Tips:

Labelling your belongings can help prevent confusion and ensure they don’t get misplaced during the move. Our homes will take care of labelling your clothes for you but you might want to label other things such as walking aids.

Communication – Before your move, communicate with the staff at the care home to understand any specific guidelines or restrictions regarding what you can bring.

Pack thoughtfully – Be mindful of the space available in your new home and pack only what you need and can comfortably accommodate. Don’t forget you can always add more things once you are settled in with us.

Valuable items – our homes do have a safe on site if you have any valuable items you want to store although we would discourage you from bringing valuables where possible.