Live-in care means having a fully trained carer living with you in your own home, providing support whenever it’s needed.

The Care Act 2014 recognises that “modern care and support can be provided in any number of ways, with new models emerging all the time,” moving beyond traditional models of residential care

Who Benefits from Live-In Care?

• Older people requiring daily assistance
• Individuals with physical disabilities
• People living with dementia
• Those returning from hospital who need support during recovery
• Anyone approaching end of life who wishes to remain at home

Key Advantages

• Remain in your own home surrounded by personal belongings
• Maintain existing routines and social connections
• One-to-one dedicated care and companionship
• Family and friends can visit freely
• Pets can stay with you
• Continuity of care from a familiar face

What Does a Live-In Carer Do?

 The Role of Your Live-In Carer

A live-in carer provides comprehensive, round-the-clock support tailored to your individual needs.

The Homecare Association states that quality homecare should be “tailored to the individual’s needs and aspirations” and “delivered by a consistent, small number of skilled workers whom the person knows”4.

Daily Support Tasks

Personal Care

• Assistance with bathing, washing, and showering
• Help with dressing and grooming
• Support with toileting and continence care

Medication Management

• Reminders to take prescribed medications
• Arranging and administering doses as required
• Collecting prescriptions

Household Support

• Meal preparation and cooking
• Light housekeeping and tidying
• Laundry and shopping

Companionship

• Friendly conversation and emotional support
• Assistance with hobbies and activities
• Accompanying you to social events

 The Cost of Live-In Care

Understanding Live-In Care Costs

Live-in care costs vary depending on the level of support required, the complexity of care needs, and your location within the UK.

 Typical Cost Breakdown

According to the NHS, help at home from a paid carer costs from £15 to £30 an hour, varying according to location5.

Note: Costs vary significantly by region. London and the South East typically have higher rates.

What’s Included in the Cost?

Live-in care packages typically include:

• All personal care support
• Medication management
• Meal preparation
• Light housekeeping
• Companionship
• Accompanying you to appointments

Additional costs to consider:

• Food and utilities for your carer
• Specialist equipment if required
• Respite cover for your carer’s days off

Funding Options for Live-In Care

Local Authority Support Under the Care Act 2014, if you have limited income or savings, you may qualify for financial assistance following a care needs assessment and financial means test3. Local authorities set national eligibility criteria, and if you meet the threshold, they must meet your eligible needs3.

NHS Continuing Healthcare For individuals with significant, complex health needs, the NHS may cover the full cost of care.

Direct Payments If eligible for council support, you can choose to receive your personal budget as a direct payment, giving you control to arrange your own care5.

Attendance Allowance A non-means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care.

Live-In Care vs Care Homes & Nursing Homes

Comparing Your Care Options

The Care Act statutory guidance emphasises that local authorities must consider “meeting needs” rather than fitting people into services, recognising that “everyone’s needs are different and personal to them”

Getting Started with Live-In Care

Your Journey to Quality Care at Home

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Contact us for a free, no-obligation conversation about your care needs.

Step 2: Care Needs Assessment

A senior member of our team will visit to discuss needs in detail. The NHS advises that even if you’re arranging care privately, “it’s still a good idea to have a needs assessment as it will help you to explain to the agency or carer what kind of help you need”5.

Step 3: Personalised Care Plan

We create a tailored care plan. The Homecare Association requires that services “deliver what has been agreed” and are “flexible and innovative to meet people’s needs”4.

Step 4: Carer Matching

We carefully match you with a live-in carer based on needs, preferences, and personality.

Step 5: Care Begins

Your carer moves in and begins providing support, with ongoing reviews.

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