Your step-by-step guide to finding care you can trust — and feel good about.

Choosing a home care provider for yourself or a loved one is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It’s not just about practical support — it’s about inviting someone into your home, your routine, and your life.

Whether you’re planning ahead or urgently looking for help, this guide will help you feel more confident in making the right choice.

🔍 1. Start With Your Needs

Every person’s situation is unique. Think about:

• How much support is needed — hourly, daily, overnight, or live-in?
• What kind of tasks are required — personal care, companionship, mobility, cooking?
• Are there any specific conditions involved — dementia, stroke recovery, palliative care?
• Do you need short-term help (post-hospital) or long-term support?

Knowing what kind of care you need will help narrow down providers who are qualified to meet those needs.

📝 2. Check CQC Registration and Ratings

In England, all professional home care providers must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Visit www.cqc.org.uk and search for the provider’s name to:

• See their inspection rating (Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, Inadequate)
• Read detailed reports about safety, responsiveness, and leadership
• Confirm the provider is legally compliant

🛑 Avoid unregistered agencies — they’re not legally allowed to offer personal care.

💬 3. Ask the Right Questions

When contacting a provider, don’t be afraid to ask:

• What services do you offer?
• How do you tailor care to each person?
• Will I have the same carer or a rotating team?
• What training do your carers receive?
• How do you monitor quality and safety?
• Are carers employed or self-employed?
• Can I meet the carer before care begins?
• How do you handle complaints or concerns?

A good provider will be happy to answer all your questions — and encourage you to ask more.

👩‍⚕️ 4. Look for Continuity and Flexibility

Continuity is key. Will the same 1–2 carers visit regularly? Are schedules consistent?

Flexibility also matters. Life changes — so your care provider should be able to adjust visit times, care levels, or services without hassle.

📌 Tip: Ask about minimum visit lengths. Providers that offer 30-minute or longer visits may give carers more time to build rapport and provide quality care.

💜 5. Check for a Personal Touch

Beyond credentials and policies, pay attention to the feel of the provider:

• Do they take time to understand your needs and lifestyle?
• Are they respectful, compassionate, and genuinely interested?
• Do they treat you as a person — not a task list?

Trust your instincts. If it feels rushed or impersonal, keep looking.

🧾 6. Understand Costs and Contracts

Always ask:

• What’s the hourly rate or care package cost?
• Are there weekend or holiday surcharges?
• How often will I be invoiced?
• Is there a cancellation policy?
• Are there any hidden fees?

A transparent provider will give you a clear breakdown of costs — and explain funding options like direct payments or attendance allowance if needed.

👥 7. Ask for Testimonials or Speak to Clients

Reputable agencies are proud to share client feedback. Look for:

• Reviews on Google or Trustpilot
• Testimonials on their website
• Case studies or video stories
• Opportunities to speak with current clients or families (where possible)

Hearing real experiences can give you powerful insights.

✅ Final Thought: The Right Provider Feels Right

Home care isn’t just a service — it’s a relationship. The right provider will make you feel respected, understood, and supported from day one.

Take your time. Ask questions. Trust your instincts.

And if you’re looking for local, personalised, and compassionate support — we’re always here to help.