Introduction
In the simplest of terms, home care means support given in someone’s own home, instead of moving into a residential setting.
In the UK, more families choose home care because it helps loved ones stay comfortable, safe, and independent.
This guide gives you a full overview: what home care is, the types, the costs, how to arrange it, how to choose a provider, and how it is regulated.
What Is Home Care?
Home care (also called “home-care services”, “care at home”, or “domiciliary care”) refers to personal help delivered in a person’s home.
It can include:
- Help with washing, dressing, toileting, and meals
- Assistance with medication, mobility, and shopping
- Social interaction and companionship
Providers:
- Local council social care departments
- Private home-care agencies
- Live-in carer services
In England, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspects and regulates home-care agencies.
Types of Home Care in the UK
There are several types of home care services available to people in the UK, the most popular ones are;
Domiciliary Care
Hourly or daily visits by a carer who comes to the home. Often called “home visits”, “home support”.
Live-In Care
A carer lives in the person’s home and provides 24-hour support.
Respite Care
Short-term care to relieve family carers or give families a break. This is ideal when recovery or transition is needed.
Specialist Care
Services tailored to specific conditions: dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke recovery, palliative/end-of-life.
Benefits of Home Care
Some of the benefits of home care are;
- Keeps the person in their familiar environment, which supports dignity and comfort.
- One-to-one or personalised care instead of shared settings.
- Flexible scheduling: visits can be tailored to routines, preferences.
- Families often feel more connected and reassured.
Who Needs Home Care?
Common scenarios:
- Older people who struggle with daily tasks (washing, dressing, meals)
- People with disabilities or long-term health conditions
- Someone recovering from surgery or illness who needs temporary help
- Families needing relief from caring duties
Checklist: Your loved one may need home care if they:
- Are finding it hard to manage everyday routines
- Are increasingly isolated or at risk of falls
- Require more support than family alone can provide
How to Arrange Home Care in the UK
Step 1. Get a care-needs assessment. The local council can arrange this.
Step 2. Decide on the type of care (visiting, live-in, specialist).
Step 3. Research providers: check CQC ratings, reviews.
Step 4. Agree on a care plan: services, times, costs, review schedule.
Step 5. Monitor the care: review outcomes and ongoing suitability.
Cost of Home Care in the UK
- According to the National Health Service (NHS) a paid carer visiting at home may cost £15 to £30 per hour, depending on region.
- Live-in care costs are higher (often weekly rates).
- Funding options:
- Local authority support (if eligible)
- Direct Payments or Personal Budgets
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (for people with primary health needs)
How to Choose the Right Care Agency
When you evaluate provider options, look for:
- CQC registration and inspection history.
- Staff training, DBS (criminal record) checks, turnover rates.
- Clear communication, flexibility, family involvement.
- Transparent pricing, care plan clarity, reviews/testimonials.
Rights and Responsibilities
Under UK care law, clients have rights and providers have obligations.
The CQC’s Fundamental Standards include: dignity and respect, safety, safeguarding, nutrition, person-centred care.
You should expect:
- A clear contract or agreement
- Consent to be involved in decisions
- Privacy and confidentiality
- A complaints process
If standards fall below what is required, you may escalate to the regulator.
Finding Local Home Care Near You
Local care matters for better consistency and faster response.
Search by postcode or town to find agencies in your area.
Examples of location-focused services:
- Home Care in London
- Live-In Care Birmingham
- Domiciliary Care Manchester
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What’s the difference between home care and a care home?
Home care is provided in your own home; a care home involves moving into a residential facility.
Q2. How much does home care cost in the UK?
It starts from around £15-£30/hour for visiting carer support. Live-in and specialist care cost significantly more.
Q3. Can home care be provided overnight?
Yes — live-in care or overnight visiting services can be arranged.
Q4. Is home care regulated in the UK?
Yes. In England agencies must be registered with the CQC and meet their fundamental standards.
Q5. How do I find a qualified carer near me?
Use CQC’s “Find homecare agencies” search tool
Conclusion and Call to Action
Home-based support gives your loved one a chance to maintain independence, dignity and quality of life while receiving the care they need.
If you would like to explore personalised home care in your area, contact Dritewyse Care and Support LTD for a free assessment and discussion of your options.