Exiting the care sector information for care organisations.

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Legal information for exiting the care sector.

Exiting the care sector is a major decision — one that comes with complex legal, financial, and regulatory considerations. Whether you’re planning a retirement sale, responding to market pressures, or refocusing your business strategy, it’s essential to have experienced legal advisors by your side to ensure your exit is smooth, efficient, and delivers the best possible outcome.

We provide specialist legal support to care providers looking to exit the sector, whether through the sale of a single care home, a group of services, or a complete business divestment. With a deep understanding of the care market and a proven track record in care transactions, we help clients manage risk, protect value, and plan every stage of their exit strategy with confidence.

Our team understands the unique challenges that come with selling a care business — from navigating regulatory compliance and dealing with CQC registration issues to handling employee matters and negotiating with buyers, funders, and agents. We tailor our approach to reflect your priorities, whether that’s a swift sale, minimising disruption for staff and residents, or ensuring maximum return on investment.

One of our key strengths is our sector-specific expertise. We regularly act on care home and care group sales, including complex corporate structures and REIT transactions, giving us insight into what buyers are looking for — and how to position your business for a successful sale. We work collaboratively with your professional advisors, including accountants, brokers, and banks, to ensure that communication is seamless and the process is managed effectively from start to finish.

And when regulatory issues arise, our in-house CQC compliance experts are on hand to provide practical guidance and support, helping avoid delays and ensuring your obligations are met throughout the transaction.

Whether you’re planning your exit now or preparing for the future, we’ll help you structure your sale, manage legal risks, and close your chapter in the care sector on the strongest possible terms.

press
Exiting the care sector: how to prepare for sale

The care sector is facing significant challenges that are forcing some providers to exit the market and making it difficult for small and medium sized operators to remain in business.

Read more

Resources by specialism

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Children’s services | H&SC Resources
We provide specialist legal advice to children’s services providers to combine deep sector knowledge with a practical and responsive approach to help you manage risk, compliance, and deliver high-quality care.
Health & Social Care legal services - RWK Goodman
Employment & Immigration | H&SC Resources
We understand the unique pressures you face; from workforce shortages and regulatory scrutiny to employee wellbeing, immigration issues, and union activity. That’s why we take a proactive, strategic approach.
Acquiring a care home
Exiting the sector | H&SC Resources
Whether you're planning a retirement sale, responding to market pressures, or refocusing your business strategy, it's essential to have experienced legal advisors by your side to ensure your exit is smooth.
Data & privacy
GDPR & data protection | H&SC Resources
In the care and healthcare sectors, handling sensitive personal data is part of daily operations — from service user records and safeguarding reports to staff files and clinical notes.
Immigration uk
Immigration & Sponsorship | H&SC Resources
The UK healthcare sector relies heavily on international talent, but in an environment where immigration rules are constantly evolving, navigating the legal requirements of overseas recruitment can be challenging.
Inquests | H&SC Resources
When a death occurs in a care or healthcare setting, it can trigger not only deep emotional distress but also complex legal and regulatory scrutiny — especially when an inquest is required.
Mental capacity & DOLS | H&SC Resources
We provide specialist legal advice on mental capacity law and the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), helping care providers navigate their responsibilities with clarity and confidence.
Care home sales and acquisitions
Real Estate | H&SC Resources
Real estate is the foundation of every care and healthcare service — whether it’s a single residential care home, a multi-site group, supported living accommodation, or a specialist clinic.
CQC advice
Regulatory and troubleshooting | H&SC Resources
Whether it’s a surprise inspection, a safeguarding alert, a complaint to CQC, or a sudden breakdown in operational compliance, the ability to respond quickly and effectively is crucial.
Settlement agreements
Sale and acquisition | H&SC Resources
In the care sector, buying or selling a business isn’t just a financial transaction — it’s a highly regulated, people-focused process with many moving parts.
Employment contract review

Have a question about our Health Check service?

We offer all providers a free health check of their employment contracts and service user contracts.

As a care provider it is crucial that you have the correct contractual agreements in place. Failure to do so can have financial and legal consequences but also cause reputation damage. Our Health check service is designed to protect you whilst also giving you the most pragmatic and commercial options. Speak to the team today.

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