For some people, cultural identity or heritage is an important factor when choosing care in later life. This can include a wide range of factors, including ethnicity, nationality, language or religion. Care that respects and acknowledges people’s cultural needs is called culturally appropriate care. The Care Quality Commission has published guidance for care providers on how to provide culturally appropriate care services.
There are a number of faith based organisations such as Jewish Care which is mainly focused on London and the South East of England. It also runs the Jewish Care Interact website.
MHA, formerly known as Methodist Homes for the Aged, is a care provider that was originally set up by members of the Methodist Church. MHA now welcomes residents regardless of faith, background or belief. It supports more than 18,000 older people across the UK.
Jah-Jireh: caters for the needs of Jehovah’s Witnesses who need nursing or residential care.
Some notable absences are specialist organisations for Muslim, Hindu and Sikh people but Faith in Older People is a charity that works with care providers and faith communities to promote a better understanding of the spiritual dimension to the wellbeing of older people.