The care home has given notice to leave
Care homes must treat residents fairly under consumer law. They can't ask someone to leave without good reason, proper notice and consultation, and never as punishment for complaining.
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Your rights
- Contract terms that are fair and clear.
- Reasonable notice, and a valid reason (usually 28 days, unless it's an emergency).
- To be consulted, and for the home to try to resolve problems first.
- Not to be evicted for raising a complaint or concern.
- If the council arranged the placement, a reassessment and a suitable alternative.
What to do next
- Read the contract's notice and termination terms.
- Ask for the reasons and the evidence in writing.
- If the council funds the placement, tell the council straight away.
- Complain, and contact the Ombudsman if needed. Tell the CQC if you think the notice is retaliation.
Say this
“Please give me the reason for this notice in writing, and show me where the contract allows it. Have you considered other ways to resolve this?”
The law behind it (England)
- Consumer Rights Act 2015unfair terms
- Care Act 2014duties to meet needs
- Human Rights Act 1998Article 8: home
Elsewhere in the UK
- Scotland
- Consumer law applies UK-wide. In Scotland, the Care Inspectorate regulates care homes.
- Wales
- Consumer law applies UK-wide. In Wales, Care Inspectorate Wales regulates care homes.
- Northern Ireland
- Consumer law applies UK-wide. In Northern Ireland, the RQIA regulates care homes.
Easy Read
What you need to know
- Care homes must be fair.
- They need a good reason to ask someone to leave.
- They must give proper notice.
- They cannot make someone leave for complaining.
What you can do
- Ask for the reason in writing.
- If the council pays, tell the council now.
Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.