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While care home rooms are not legally required to have en suite facilities, modern care homes often provide them due to their perceived benefits. However, en suite bathrooms are not always the most practical option for every resident.
Many individuals require more spacious, accessible, and specialist-equipped bathroom facilities, making shared bathrooms a more suitable and inclusive choice. Understanding the regulations and benefits of different bathroom arrangements is key when selecting the right care home.
Current Regulations and Requirements
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) mandates that care homes must provide accessible and adequate bathroom facilities but does not require that every room has an en suite. The emphasis is placed on ensuring privacy, dignity, and accessibility in personal care, whether through en suite or shared facilities.
Minimum Requirements
Care homes must provide:
- Sufficient toilets and bathrooms for resident numbers
- Fully accessible facilities for those with mobility needs
- Privacy-ensuring arrangements
- Clean and well-maintained facilities
The ratio of bathrooms to residents varies, but shared facilities must always be accessible and maintained to the highest standards.
The Benefits of Shared Facilities
While en suites offer privacy, shared bathrooms are often the best option for residents who need additional space and specialist equipment to support their personal care routines. The Social Care Institute for Excellence highlights the importance of accessible, well-equipped facilities in ensuring dignity and independence.
More Space for Specialist Equipment
For many residents, standard en suite bathrooms can be too small to accommodate mobility aids or specialist equipment. Shared bathrooms are designed to be:
- Larger and more accessible
- Equipped with specialist bathing and mobility aids
- Easier to use with the support of carers
For those who require hoists, adapted baths, or additional space for assistance, shared bathrooms provide a safer and more comfortable environment.
Enhanced Accessibility and Safety
Shared facilities often offer:
- Walk-in showers or height-adjustable baths
- Handrails and hoists for easier mobility
- Space for carers to provide assistance while maintaining dignity
For residents with complex care needs, these facilities ensure that personal hygiene routines are carried out safely and comfortably.
Hygiene and Infection Control Considerations
While en suite bathrooms can offer convenience, shared facilities are designed with stringent hygiene protocols to prevent cross-contamination and ensure high cleanliness standards. The UK Health Security Agency outlines best practices for infection prevention, which well-maintained shared facilities adhere to through:
- Regular deep cleaning schedules
- Individualised hygiene support plans
- Enhanced infection control procedures
Making an Informed Choice
When choosing a care home, bathroom arrangements should be considered based on individual needs rather than assumptions about en suites being the best option. Key factors to consider include:
Quality of Life Factors
- Space requirements for mobility equipment
- The need for carer assistance
- Specialist bathing needs
- Accessibility and comfort
Experience Quality Care at Ashberry Care Homes
At Ashberry Care Homes, we understand that every resident has unique requirements when it comes to bathroom facilities. That’s why we offer both en suite and shared options, ensuring that everyone has access to the most suitable, safe, and dignified facilities for their needs.
Contact our friendly team today to discuss our available room options and arrange a visit to see our facilities firsthand. We're here to help you find the right care environment that ensures comfort, dignity, and peace of mind.
