Exploring Home Care: A Guide to Deciding, Arranging, and Financing
Are you at a crossroads wondering when the right time is to consider assistance at home from a paid carer? Here are some indicators that might suggest it’s time to explore home care options:
- If you’re struggling with daily routines like washing, dressing, and mobility.
- If you prefer to stay in the comfort of your own home rather than moving to a care facility.
- If your home is still a safe environment or can be adapted to ensure your safety.
How Home Care Can Help
Engaging a paid carer to provide in-home assistance can address a range of needs, including:
- Morning routines like getting out of bed.
- Personal care tasks such as washing, dressing, and hair brushing.
- Assistance with using the toilet.
- Meal preparation and managing medications.
- Support with daily errands like shopping and prescription collection.
- Participation in social activities, like lunch clubs.
- Evening routines, ensuring a comfortable bedtime.
Home Help: A Different Approach
Distinguished from home care, home help focuses on everyday domestic tasks, offering assistance with:
- Cleaning, including changing bed sheets.
- Dishwashing.
- Laundry.
- Gardening.
Consider home help in addition to or instead of home care based on your specific needs.
Most councils do not provide home help services. Reach out to organizations such as the Royal Voluntary Service, the British Red Cross, or Age UK for potential assistance.
Securing Home Care Services
You have two primary options for obtaining home care:
- Council Arrangement:
- Contact your local council for a needs assessment.
- The assessment determines your eligibility for care.
- If eligible, the council may recommend and arrange home care services.
- Self-Arrangement:
- Choose to arrange your own home care independently or through an agency.
Funding Your Home Care
Understanding how to finance home care is crucial. Your local council might contribute based on your needs assessment, while the costs can also be self-funded. Here’s what you need to know:
- The council’s financial assessment determines your contribution based on income and savings.
- If eligible, the council provides a care and support plan outlining your needs, the method of meeting them, and your personal budget.
- You may choose a direct payment method, granting you control over employing your preferred carer.
Benefits and Support
Explore potential benefits to help cover home care costs. Non-means-tested benefits like Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payments can provide financial assistance. Check your eligibility and learn how to apply for relevant benefits, whether you’re under or over 65.
Choosing Your Caregiver
If you decide to arrange your own home care, two main approaches exist:
- Homecare Agency:
- Utilise the services of a professional agency.
- Private Employment:
- Choose to directly employ your own carer.
Navigating the world of home care involves thoughtful consideration of your needs, preferences, and financial situation. Whether you opt for council assistance or self-arrangement, the ultimate goal is to ensure you receive the support you need while maintaining the independence and comfort of home.
HOW DO I ARRANGE VISITING HOME CARE?
All home care begins with a conversation so that we can get to know more about you and your unique circumstances. Get in touch with our expert team and we’ll talk you through your options and answer any question you may have.
TALK TO OUR FRIENDLY TEAM
Call our care team on 0208 439 7722 to discuss your care needs or for more general advice and support.
HOME VISIT ASSESSMENT
We’ll arrange for an expert care manger to visit you at home to learn more about you and the assistance you want to receive.
FIND YOUR CARER
We’ll pair you with a carer (or carers) who have the right skills to help meet your needs.
