Welcome to FirstStop!
FirstStop Advice is an independent, free service offering advice and information for older people, their families and carers about housing and care options in later life. It is led by the charity Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) working in partnership with other national and local organisations.
Our service spans housing, care, finance and rights and is delivered through this website, our telephone Advice Line and our network of local and specialist partner organisations.
- Care and support - in your own home, in specialist housing or in a care home.
- Housing - services to help you manage well at home and maintain independence; information about moving somewhere more suitable.
- Finance - paying for care including benefits and allowances, Council and NHS funding, insurances, financial planning and financial products.
- Your rights - the law; standards you should expect; how to get what you are entitled to; advocacy services that can support you.
Our new brochure tells you more about FirstStop (5.6mb; opens in new window)
About our website
We aim to provide clear information and advice. Our site includes:
- Explanations of how services for older people work; how to get the help or care you need; what State services and financial support are available; how to choose between housing options - from adapting your home to moving to special housing or a care home.
- A comprehensive library of reading materials about care and housing for older people.
- A directory of local services, from 'handypersons' to lunch clubs to home care providers.
- A directory of UK care homes for older people, including links to inspection reports.
- A directory of all UK retirement housing, including sheltered, assisted living, extra care, close care, Abbeyfields, almshouses and retirement villages.
About our Advice Line
FirstStop's Advisors are available to discuss your circumstances and offer guidance on the options available for meeting your needs and aspirations. They are experts in our field, and can also help you get the most out of this website and explain anything you find unclear or difficult.
Meet our national advice team
Meet our local and regional partners