For Families

Valuing family knowledge while protecting the person’s rights

Family involvement can make care safer and more personal. It must also respect the person’s privacy, choices and legal rights. We agree who should be involved and what information can be shared.

For

People receiving care, relatives, representatives and advocates

You'll learn

Know who can receive information, who can decide and how communication is agreed.

Sections

6 covered

Call

0115 681 2514

01

Consent to share information

Where the person has capacity to decide, they choose who may receive information and what can be discussed. Consent can be limited, changed or withdrawn. We record the agreed communication arrangement.

02

Capacity and decision-making

Capacity is not all or nothing. A person may need support to understand one decision while making many others independently. If they cannot make a particular decision, MoreLoved Care follows the Mental Capacity Act principles and considers lawful best interests.

03

Legal representatives

A health and welfare attorney, deputy, person with parental responsibility or another authorised representative may have a defined role. We check the scope of authority rather than assuming that any relative can make every decision.

04

When information may be shared without consent

Safeguarding, vital interests, legal duties, serious risk or another lawful basis may require information sharing. We share only what is necessary and record the reason.

05

Routine communication

The care plan can specify immediate alerts, routine updates, preferred contact method, who should be called first and what happens if a contact cannot be reached. Staff should not use personal messaging accounts or informal channels outside approved arrangements.

06

Disagreement

Where the person, family and professionals disagree, we clarify rights, risks and the decision being made. Advocacy, best-interests discussion, safeguarding or professional review may be appropriate. Conflict should not be resolved by excluding the person from the conversation.

Answers

Frequently asked questions.

Can I see my relative’s care records?+

Only where the person agrees, you have appropriate authority or another lawful basis applies. Access is not automatic because you are a relative.

What is a health and welfare power of attorney?+

It is legal authority to make specified health and welfare decisions when the person lacks capacity, subject to the document and law. MoreLoved Care may ask to see relevant evidence.

Can several relatives receive updates?+

Yes, if this is agreed and practical. A lead contact may help avoid inconsistent information, but the person’s wishes remain central.

What if I think the person is not safe?+

Use the safeguarding or urgent contact route. Immediate danger requires 999.

Can I change the communication arrangement?+

The person or authorised decision-maker can request a change. MoreLoved Care may also review the arrangement if it is not working safely or lawfully.