Domiciliary care - care in your own home

Care in your own home, also called domiciliary care, can be a good option for those who want to maintain independence while receiving some help. It's flexible, so you can choose as much help as you need. There are a few things to consider before choosing care at home.

Where to look for care

Care in the home is provided by agencies. You can find a list of agencies:

• On the UK Home Care Association or by phoning 020 8661 8188.
• The Yellow Pages or Thompson will also have details under Home Care agencies.

You can also check lists with the care home regulator for your country:

• England 03000 61 61 61 www.cqc.org.uk
• Scotland 0845 6030890 www.carecommission.com
• Northern Ireland 028 9051 7500 www.rqia.org.uk
• Wales 01443 8484450 www.wales.gov.uk/cssiwsubsite/newcssiw

What to look for

Firstly, make sure that any homecare provider you're talking to is registered with a decent trade association. You should have had a care assessment (Section 47 assessment) from a Local Authority first. 

Here's a list of things you might want to think about when you're looking for care.

• Can the homecare provider give the care needed and meet personal preferences?
• Has the staff cared for someone with similar needs?
• How will they match the most suitable care worker for needs?
• What sort of training do their careworkers receive before they start work and during their employment?
• If the care isn’t provided by a local council, does the agency have a standard contract to read before signing?
• Can the agency be contacted during the day, outside office hours and in an emergency?
• What happens if the regular careworker is sick or on holiday?
• What charges, if any, will there be?
• Is there a minimum charge if only a small amount of care is needed?
• Are there any hidden extras in the prices? (Prices normally include National Insurance contributions, travel expenses and any VAT payable.)

Next steps

Ask a few agencies to send you brochures and price lists. While reading them, you can consider the above points and work out if they'll be suitable.