(Hamilton, Bermuda) – When individuals or organizations begin exploring the possibility of opening or transitioning a care home, important questions often arise: What approvals are required? What standards must be met? How are residents’ safety and quality of care protected?

As part of its ongoing commitment to transparency, the Health Council is highlighting its Care Home Licensing Guidance and related resources available on its website. These documents provide clear information about the framework that governs the licensing of residential care homes in Bermuda.

The guidance outlines:

• The requirements and application process to open a residential care home
• The process for expanding an existing care home
• The process for relocating an existing care home
• The ongoing compliance expectations for care homes
• The process for selling or changing ownership of a care home
• The transition planning considerations for care homes
• The process for closing a care home

Residential care homes are governed by the Residential Care Homes and Nursing Homes Act 1999, the associated Regulations, the Code of Practice for Care Homes, and the Bermuda Health Council Act 2004. These laws establish the standards and processes that must be followed in all cases involving residential care operations.

Residential care homes may experience changes in location, ownership, or operational structure over time. In all circumstances, the applicable requirements and review processes apply to ensure that standards of care and resident protection are maintained.

There are currently 17 licensed residential care homes operating in Bermuda. The Health Council continues to engage with operators and prospective applicants in accordance with the framework governing residential care homes.

A Health Council spokesperson stated: “We understand that families and care providers have questions about how residential care homes are regulated. Our role is to apply the legislated standards consistently and transparently to protect residents and maintain quality of care. We encourage members of the public to review the published guidance to better understand the process.”

The Care Home Licensing Guidance and related resources are available at: https://healthcouncil.bm/licensing-and-registrations#care-homes