Frequently asked questions

Q. Will I have the same person coming to help me each time?
A. Yes, as far as possible. Obviously if you are having someone regularly and they are sick or on holiday, we will arrange for someone else to come.

Q. If I needed more help at short notice, would this be available?
A. Yes, generally we can arrange for your carer to be there at other times, or even to stay longer if you need that on a particular occasion. It is helpful to give us as much notice as you can, so that we can arrange this.

Q. I want to plan for care in my home in the future. Can you provide more help than daily visits eg nursing or someone to live-in and help me permanently?
A. We are not a nursing agency, but we can provide live-in care, if you feel you need someone there to help you all the time. We are experienced in looking after people right to the end of their lives in their own homes, alongside community nurses and any specialist medical professionals.

Q. What happens if I don’t like the person you send . Can I ask for someone else?
A. Yes, of course. You are the person in charge and can choose who you want and don’t want. It is always helpful for us to know, especially as different people get on better with some than with others.

Q. Do your carers wear a uniform
A. No. You will never be sent anybody that you have not met before. Any carer who comes to you (even for relief) will be introduced by your usual carer and shown the routine.

Q. Is there a minimum time or cost that I am committed to when I agree the service can start? How do I end the service if I don’t need it any more?
A. Our minimum charge is for 1 hour and you can end the visits at any time. Normally we ask for 24 hours notice to enable us to rearrange our work.

Q. I don’t want someone staying in my house permanently but it is sometimes nice if I am feeling unwell. Is this possible to arrange?
A. Of course. A carer can stay in your house throughout the night to ensure that you are safe until you feel more confident to stay on your own. We generally need a few days notice to arrange this but we may be able to respond quickly if it is urgent.