Live-in Care
Find quality full-time Live-in Care in the comfort of your own home.
What is Live-in Care?
Live-in Care provides continuous support from a dedicated carer in the comfort and security of your own home. They’ll move in with you or your loved one, and be there to help when you need them.
We all value things about our local community. We all want a sense of belonging. If household chores start to build or a medical diagnosis overshadows living alone, Live-in Care can bridge the gap.
Neighbours for years. Allotment nearby. Local walks. Cheery postman. Cherished memories. It can all continue with Live-in Care.
Our Live-in Carers work to understand what matters most to you, then help you stay safe, secure and independent in the home you love.
Your home. Your care. Your choice.
Why choose Alina Homecare?
Understanding
Our Team has many years’ experience. We understand the challenges, and we’re ready to help you every step of the way. Our entire service is designed to be simple and less stressful.
Excellent Training
Our Carers are carefully selected and receive training through our exclusive Alina Homecare Academy. We do not use an agency or freelance staff to maintain our quality reputation.
Quality Care
Our strict performance guidelines, Care Quality Commission ratings and transparency via our care monitoring app. give added peace of mind and quality assurance.
Personalised Care
Our personalised care is unique to each client. Live-in Care is flexible when circumstances change and always delivered with compassion, dignity and respect.
Contact us
Speak to our Team today!
How can Live-in Care help?
Whatever you need, whenever you need it, we can help. Our Live-in care service can include:
From bathing and toileting to getting dressed and applying makeup, we help you maintain hygiene and routines with dignity and respect.
A cup of tea. A board game. Attending a local event. Our Live-in Companionship Care ensures there’s always someone there to keep you or your loved one company.
Laundry, light dusting, and vacuuming the carpet. Our Live-in Carers keep things neat and tidy so living at home isn’t a chore.
Enjoying your local community is just as important as living at home. Our Live-in Carers go where you go, enabling you to make the most of life.
Live-in Care includes meal prep considering your tastes, as well as reminders to maintain a healthy and routine diet.
We know what a key part pets can play in our lives. Lots of our Live-in Carers love pets and are happy to care for yours.
Holidays, day trips and visiting friends and family, your Live-in Carers can assist you with the organisation so that you can enjoy your planned time. Your Carer will also ensure your needs are met, so that you don’t need to worry.
Our care monitoring app. keeps track of when you or your loved one needs your medication, so your Live-in Carer can help you stay on track.
We can help anyone. Many of our clients have conditions ranging from dementia to Parkinson’s and MS.
We can help with both the physical and emotional burden of incurable illness.
We can help bridge the gap after surgery or provide After Hospital Care until you or your loved one find your feet again. Our service is highly personalised, not only mirroring your needs but also your preferences of how you wish to be supported, enabling you to live the life you want as independently as possible. Your Live-in Carer will provide you with the dedicated, round the clock support you need.
We try to match you to a Live-in Carer who shares your interests where possible, so you can enjoy your time together.
| How We Compare | Care Home | Live-in Care |
|---|---|---|
| Stay in your own home | ✓ | ✓ |
| Round the clock support | ✓ | ✓ |
| Expertly trained carers | ✓ | ✓ |
| Control your routine | ✘ | ✓ |
| Reduced risk of falls & infections | ✘ | ✓ |
| Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fully managed support | ✘ | ✓ |
Who can benefit?
Anyone can benefit from Live-in Care. It can be a great option for people with different levels of care needs, including couples.
Receiving Care?
If you’re already receiving Home Care, Live-in Care may be the natural next step if your needs have increased and visits throughout the day are no longer sufficient. We can give you round the clock reassurance.
Living in a Care Home?
Many of our clients choose Live-in Care after struggling to settle into a care home. It can give you the chance to settle back into the comfort of your own home, back into your local community surrounded by your things.
Living With a Spouse?
It can be life changing if a partner moves into residential care, and Live-in Care can provide a suitable alternative. If a couple also have different care needs, Live-in Care can prove to be more cost effective.
Leaving Hospital?
If your loved one is in hospital, they may need care in place before they can come home. Care at home is therefore a great alternative to a residential or nursing home. If care is needed all day, Live-in Care can be a great option.
What are the advantages of Live-in Care?
Live-in Care stories
We’re proud to serve our clients across the South of England. Find out how our Live-in Care services have benefited them with these reviews taken from independent review site, homecare.co.uk:
Matching you with a Live-in Carer
When you decide that Live-in Care is right for you, our job is to find someone who can best meet your needs and that you’ll really enjoy having around.
All our Live-in Carers are fully trained and have the right personality to look after you or your loved one. Our specialist Teams are highly experienced people who can commit their time with undivided attention.
Matching people takes time. We start by meeting you to learn more about you or your loved one. We take time to learn your interests, care needs and preferences. We try hard to match people with similar hobbies and to satisfy your preferences such as whether you want a male or female Live-in Carer.
Fully managed support
Dedicated Team
Our experienced local Teams know their communities inside out. From your local GP to your local supermarket, their knowledge helps make life easier. With central support, you can enjoy added peace of mind.
Quality Team
Our central Quality Team sets us apart from agencies and self-employed carers. Our award-winning care is reliable, regulated by the CQC and reinforced by our unwavering commitment to high quality care.
Exclusive Training
All our Carers are carefully selected and receive training through our exclusive Alina Homecare Academy to offer the best care possible. We don’t use agency or freelance staff to protect our quality reputation.
Care Monitoring App.
Enjoy full transparency via Birdie, our care monitoring app., allowing you to track Live-in Care at home as it happens. The app. monitors all aspects from mood changes to medication for added confidence and peace of mind.
There’s no one size fits all. Costs vary depending on your needs. Our services are competitively priced and provide excellent value for the quality we deliver. Live-in Care for couples can be particularly cost effective.
We will be able to advise you of our rates once we have met with you and understand the services you require.
There are a number of ways to fund your care – you may be eligible for financial support from your local council or you may want to fund it yourself. Whatever your circumstances, we can help work out the best way forward for you .
I’m Natasha, Live-in Care Manager
I’ve worked in the care sector for around twelve years and with Alina Homecare since April 2016. I’m passionate about Live-in Care and the benefits it brings, dramatically improving someone’s quality of life in the comfort of their own home.
Since joining Alina Homecare, I’ve been involved in the recruitment for Live-in Carers, coordinating placements, which involves matching carers to our clients and managing the Live-in Team.
We support all Alina Homecare branches to enable them to offer quality Live-in Care services to both existing and new clients. I believe Live-in Care is the best care we can provide as it guarantees continuous one-to-one support for our clients.”
Quick questions
What is Live-in Care?
Live-in Care means just that, a Carer lives in your home day and night to provide support in all aspects of your life. From support with your personal care, meal preparation and medication. Our Live-in Carers are fully trained professionals and deliver the care and support needed compassionately and respectfully.
Contact your local Alina Homecare Team to learn more about how we can help you.
How does Live-in Care work?
We aim to keep the process of setting up care as simple and stress free as possible. To begin with, simply send us an email or call our Team. We’ll arrange a free assessment to discuss your needs and requirements. After that, we’ll match you with a Live-in Carer based on your preferences, needs and interests. We’ll also create a care plan for you. You’ll then start a two week trial and we’ll start making life easier for you!
Can my Live-in Carer accompany me on holiday?
Yes, we would have to carry out a thorough risk assessment for your Live-in Carer before accompanying you on holiday. This is regulation but more importantly, it will put your mind at ease and enable you to relax and enjoy your holiday.
Will my Live-in Carer look after my pets?
We know pets play a key part in many people’s lives. Lots of our Live-in Carers love pets and will be happy to care for yours.
What is the difference between Live-in Care and Home Care?
The main difference is that Live-in Care involves a carer moving in with you. You’ll have continuous support, and someone in the house all day if you need any help. There are lots of types of Home Care available, from Companionship Care to Personal Care and more specialist support for services like dementia and stroke. All of these services are included within Live-in Care depending on your needs and preferences.
What’s included?
Live-in Care can be whatever you want it to be! All of our Home Care services are available, including Personal Care, Domestic Care, Companion Care, Palliative Care and Respite Care. We also offer Overnight Care as part of Live-in Care. This could be a waking night or sleeping night service depending on your needs.
Is it right for me?
Ultimately, only you and your loved ones can decide if Live-in Care is right for you. For many people, it’s a great choice that makes life easier and fulfills their care needs. To find out more, we recommend chatting with your local Team to discuss your requirements and see how we can help you.
Is it suitable if I need specialist care?
Absolutely. We can include more specialist services for conditions like MS, Parkinson’s, dementia and more. If necessary, we can also arrange for a second Care Worker to visit and support your regular Live-in Carer with more specialist tasks.
Where can I read reviews?
You can hear first hand from many of our clients on our homecare.co.uk profile as well as Google Business.
What does a Live-in Carer need?
Your Live-in Carer will need a separate bedroom, clean bed linen and a place to store their clothes and toiletries. Internet connection is essential for our Live-in Care as it allows us to digitally monitor care and ensure you or your loved one receives the best service possible. There is no need to worry if you don’t have internet in your home, as we can arrange for mobile data to be used instead.
Do I need to buy food for my Live-in Carer?
We typically suggest a weekly food allowance for your Live-in Carer. However, another popular option is to purchase your Carer’s food in your regular grocery shop, as it can be easier for Carers and clients to cook and eat the same food. Ultimately, it’s your choice.
Do you provide care for couples?
Yes we do. Live-in Care for couples can be a cost effective option, especially compared with the care home fees for two people. It also allows couples to stay together at home rather than separating and receiving residential care.
Who chooses Live-in Care?
We provide Live-in Care across the South of England for a wide variety of clients. Some have been receiving care at home and Live-in Care becomes the natural next step. Others are returning from hospital and need continuous support. Some others have chosen to return from a care home.
How long will my Live-in Carer stay with me?
Our expert Live-in Carers deliver positive, quality care 24 hours a day for a week, month or year. A Live-in Carer will stay in your home, on average, for 4-6 weeks at a time. This timing will vary however depending on your preferences. They will then take 1-2 weeks’ break, during which a replacement Live-in Carer will come and stay. We’ll introduce you to your replacement Carer and will ensure they are fully briefed on all your care needs. Live-in Care is compassionate, gentle and belongs to you. But it doesn’t have to be forever unless you want it to.
Why should I choose a Live-in Care service over a care home?
Live-in Care is great for those who wish to remain in the comfort of their own home surrounded by years of memories but need extra support. Moving away can be distressing and some would rather choose to remain in their familiar environment. Live-in Care also provides one-to-one support that’s conducted in a manner to suit your needs and preferences. Unfortunately, care homes can’t provide the same level of personalised care as mealtimes, when you choose to socialise and what activities you do in the day are all decided for you. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you think would work best for you. Read our guide comparing home care with care homes.
How often do older people need 24 hour care?
Whether someone needs 24 hour care is dependent on their needs and preferences. If your medical needs require 24 hour care or you simply just want someone else in the house with you to help with overwhelming daily tasks, Live-in Care is a great option. To find out more about how we can help you, contact your local Alina Homecare Team.
How much does it cost?
The cost of Live-in Care varies according to the type of care needed, the number of care visits and where you live. To get an accurate quote, you can complete our Live-in Care Costs calculator.
How can I fund Live-in Care?
There are many ways to fund care. You may qualify for some level of funding from your local authority or the NHS. This is means tested and your assets must be less than £23,250. Here are some options:
Direct Payments
Direct payments are a flexible choice that give you control over your care. You’ll be given funding so you can arrange your own care, whether it be a care home or Live-in Care. To arrange Direct Payments, you’ll need to contact your local adult social care services.
Continuing Healthcare Funding
Continuing Healthcare (CHC) funding is arranged and paid for by the NHS for people who aren’t in hospital but have a high level of ongoing health requirements. If you are eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding, your care package is free. To be eligible, the person must be over 18 and have a complex medical condition and substantial ongoing care needs. The Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) decides the appropriate package of support for someone eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
Equity release
If you have more than £23,250 in assets, you’ll be expected to pay for your care yourself. Equity release, where you release value from the property you live in, while retaining ownership.
Home reversion plan
With a home reversion plan, you sell all or part of your home in return for a lump sum of cash, a steady income, or a combination. When your home is then sold, the reversion company shares the proceeds. If you’ve sold the entire property to them, they receive all proceeds.
How does the cost of Live-in Care compare with residential care?
The cost of Live-in Care depends on the type and amount of care you need. We always recommend getting in touch with our Live-in Care Team for an accurate quote.
If you are receiving support from your local authority, there is a key difference between Live-in Care and residential care; local authorities will not take the value of your home into account when you receive Live-in Care because you still live there. Live-in Care can be cost effective for couples in particular, as residential care would require paying separate fees for both individuals.
How do you match carers?
When you choose us, we start looking for a Live-in Carer who will best meet your needs and that you’ll really enjoy having around. That means we even try to match your personalities, hobbies and interests. We’ll meet you initially to learn more about you or your loved one and we’ll keep your preferences in mind, such as whether you want a male or female Live-in Carer.
Can I be involved with selecting my Live-in Carer?
Yes, we believe a good match is vital in making Live-in Care work. We meet with you to discuss your care needs, your routines, your likes and dislikes to fully understand the type of Carer who might best suit your requirements and way of life.
Are your Live-in Carers employed?
Yes, all of our Live-in Carers are employed directly by Alina Homecare. We have incredibly high standards when it comes to recruiting. Every care worker has approved DBS and reference checks, ongoing spot checks, supervisions and appraisals, along with regular training updates.
How many hours do they work each day? Do they take breaks?
We commonly ask that our Live-in Carers are provided with a 2 hour break each day, usually between 2pm and 4pm, depending on what suits your daily routine. Some clients are happy to enjoy time alone, whilst others may prefer to make arrangements for a cover Care Worker whilst their Live-in Carer is on a break. It’s a personal choice depending on the level of care required.
What happens when Live-in Carers have a holiday or emergency?
When your Live-in Carer books holiday, we give you plenty of notice and arrange for another Live-in Carer to cover for them. Your temporary Live-in Carer will also take your needs, preferences and interests into consideration to deliver care with respect and dignity. In the event of an emergency where your Live-in Carer is unable to provide care, our local Team will step in to find you cover and ensure your needs continue to be met. Unlike an agency or self-employed Live-in Carer, Live-in Care with Alina Homecare is always supported by a local and central Team that provide added reassurance and peace of mind.
When do they take time off?
Our carers have different working patterns; some work two weeks and then have two weeks off. Others work 4-6 weeks and then take 2-4 weeks off. When you enquire about Live-in Care with us, we will discuss the options available to you and create a care plan that suits your lifestyle. This is then kept under constant review so that we can be sure your care package continues to work for you.
Can they speak English?
All of our Live-in Carers can speak English, and some even speak other languages too. If you’d like a Live-in Carer with specific language skills, simply let us know and we will do our best to find someone who matches your needs.
Can they drive?
Some of our Live-in Carers can drive. Let us know if you need a Live-in Carer with a vehicle when you enquire about our services, and we will do our best to match you with a suitable Carer.
How do you recruit your Live-in Carers?
Our Live-in Carers are carefully selected based on experience and personality to ensure they meet our high standards for quality. All Live-in Carers are fully vetted and must pass an enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check before they can begin delivering care. We also train our Live-in Carers ourselves through our Alina Homecare Academy.
How does Alina Homecare compare to an agency?
Agencies are not regulated and quality cannot be guaranteed. We provide fully regulated services that are inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). We also provide full and exclusive training for our Live-in Carers, whereas private and agency carers may not have comprehensive training. In addition to this, our services are also backed up with central support; this means you can count on us even if your Live-in Carer needs time off as our local Team can step in to ensure continuity of care.
What areas do you cover?
We provide care across the South of England. Find your local Team.
How quickly can Live-in Care be arranged?
We operate a responsive service. We work wherever possible to your timings and work very hard to ensure your care is in place when it is needed. In most instances we are able to install emergency care within 48 hours of initial contact, sometimes sooner if required. If you need urgent Live-in Care, please contact your local Alina Homecare Team.
What is your CQC rating?
We are rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission, the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. This rating reflects our commitment to quality assured care, and gives you added confidence that our services meet the highest quality standards.
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References
1. The Live-in Care Hub, “Better at Home”, Reviewed 25 January 2023