We believe it is important that all residents are consulted regularly with regard to the operation of Cantelowes House.  We do this in a number of ways:

• Monthly Trustee’s visit – one of the Trustees formally visits Cantelowes House each month.  During these visits they will usually speak to randomly selected residents regarding their views of how successful the home is at meeting their needs.
• The group meeting – for management purposes the home is divided into three separate geographical parts.  The residents living in each part will be invited to meet as a group, at least annually, to discuss the future development of the home.
• The activities meeting – periodically, residents will be invited to attend a meeting regarding future social activities being developed.  On e such meeting per year will normally be used to plan the summer holiday trip for that year.
• The newsletter – a newsletter is printed at least every six weeks, giving details of future plans (entertainment, decoration, new services, etc.).  There is also regular requests in this for feedback from residents on specific issues. 
• The noticeboards –there are noticeboards in the communal area that provide information important to residents.  There will often be items that are seeking feedback from our current residents on here.
• The review process – the formal review process is an important method of consulting with residents on an individual basis.
• The catering interface – the chef will discuss all aspects of the current menu with the resident group at least annually.  He will also discuss menu preferences with individuals on a regular basis, inviting them to submit their own choice of menu plan.  These will supplement the routine rolling menu plan.
• In-house advocate – each resident is allocated a named “key worker” and above them a “team leader”.  These individuals have a particular responsibility to respond to the needs of that resident.  They will be expected to ensure the residents’ views on an issue are taken into account, and therefore will be available to discuss, individually and usually immediately, any concerns that exist.