HOME CARE ADVICE
Helping families navigate home care
If you’ve started worrying about Mum, Dad or someone close to you, you’re not alone. Our Family Guide brings together the advice we share with families every day, helping you understand your options and take the next step with confidence.
How can we help today?
Every family faces different questions. Whether you’re worried about someone close to you, trying to understand home care or wondering how to pay for it, we’ve organised our guidance to help you quickly find the answers you’re looking for.
I'm worried about someone I love
Sometimes it’s difficult to explain exactly what’s changed. You just know something doesn’t feel right. These guides will help you recognise the signs, start conversations and understand what to do next.
Mum’s not herself
Sometimes you can’t explain what’s changed—you simply know something feels different.
When is it time to consider care?
Small changes can happen gradually. Learn the signs that may suggest extra support could make life safer and easier.
Dad won’t accept help…
Starting the conversation can feel impossible. These ideas can help without taking away someone’s independence.
Is loneliness becoming a concern?
Loneliness affects far more than happiness. Here’s how to recognise when someone may need more connection and support.
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Understanding your options
Home care isn’t one-size-fits-all. These guides explain how it works, what support is available and what you can expect if you’re considering care at home.
What is home care?
Discover how home care helps people stay independent, safe and comfortable in the place they know best.
What services are available?
From companionship to personal care, medication support and specialist dementia care, explore what’s available.
How Often Can Care Visits Happen?
Care is flexible. Visits can range from occasional support to several visits each day.
Can Care Increase Over Time?
Care can grow alongside changing needs, giving reassurance without unnecessary upheaval.
What happens during the first visit?
Your first visit is about getting to know you, understanding routines and creating a care plan that works.
Home care or care home?
Both offer valuable support. This guide explains the differences to help you decide what’s right.
Can care be arranged privately?
Many families choose to arrange home care privately without involving their local authority.
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Choosing the right provider
Choosing a care provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. These guides explain what to look for, the questions worth asking and why quality matters.
How to choose a care provider
A practical checklist to help you compare providers with confidence.
What does CQC mean?
Understand Care Quality Commission ratings and what they tell you about a provider.
Why continuity matters
Seeing familiar faces builds trust, reduces anxiety and creates better care.
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Paying for care
Paying for care can seem confusing at first. These guides explain the different funding options, financial assessments and what you may be expected to contribute.
Will I have to pay for home care?
Find out when care is funded, when people pay privately and how the process works.
Understanding Care Funding
Learn how local authorities assess care needs and decide financial contributions.
Can I arrange home care privately?
Yes. Many families arrange care directly without waiting for local authority involvement.
How much does home care cost?
Understand the factors that influence costs and what to expect when planning support.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Many families don’t realise they could be entitled to extra financial support or Attendance Allowance.
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When you're the one doing the caring
Looking after someone else can be rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. These guides are here to support you as well, because carers need care too.
Am I doing too much?
Caring often happens gradually. Learn the signs that you might need support yourself.
Taking a break isn’t giving up
Respite care isn’t about stepping away—it’s about making caring sustainable.
Looking after your own wellbeing
Practical ways to protect your physical and emotional wellbeing while caring for someone else.
Still not sure what you need?
Many families contact us simply saying:
“I don’t know what it is… but something isn’t right.”
You don’t need to have all the answers before getting in touch.Whether you’re simply looking for advice or you’re ready to explore care, we’re here to listen, answer your questions and help you understand your options—without pressure.