Question 1

Can Somerset Council contribute towards home care costs?

Accepted Answer

It can, subject to two separate assessments. The needs assessment establishes whether there are eligible needs, and the financial assessment then compares capital and income with national thresholds to decide how the cost is shared. Where support is agreed, the council can arrange care directly or offer a direct payment so the person chooses their own agency. Those assessed as able to meet the full cost still have a right to information and advice about arranging care.

Question 2

How do I arrange a care needs assessment in Somerset?

Accepted Answer

Contact the adult social care team at Somerset Council and describe the help that has become necessary. The referral can come from the person concerned, from a relative or friend acting for them, or from a professional such as a GP, district nurse or hospital discharge coordinator. The assessment is free and no financial test applies before it happens. Having recent, specific examples ready of what has gone wrong at home helps the assessor reach an accurate conclusion.

Question 3

How far in advance should we start looking for home care?

Accepted Answer

Start before matters become urgent, because capacity is finite and the busiest visit times are booked first. Morning and bedtime calls are in heaviest demand, so flexibility about timings widens the choice considerably. Where care is needed after a hospital stay, ask for the discharge team to begin planning well before the discharge date. Starting early also leaves room to try one agency and move to another without pressure if the fit is wrong.

Question 4

Which home care agencies serve Somerset?

Accepted Answer

One hundred and sixteen agencies registered with the Care Quality Commission for personal care in people's own homes are listed here. They include independent local providers, branches of national organisations and services supporting particular conditions. Coverage varies within the county because rounds have to work geographically, so an agency registered for the area may not reach every address. Confirming availability for a specific village or postcode by telephone is the fastest way to shorten the list.

Question 5

What should I ask a home care agency before choosing one?

Accepted Answer

Ask whether the agency genuinely covers the address and at the times required, then ask how many carers will attend across a month. Establish how sickness and late calls are handled, who staffs the office out of hours and how quickly the care plan can be changed. Request the most recent inspection report and ask what has altered since, particularly if the rating fell below Good. Questions about training in dementia, moving and handling, and medication support are also worth asking.

Question 6

What is the difference between a care home and a nursing home?

Accepted Answer

A residential care home provides accommodation together with personal care, meaning help with washing, dressing, meals and everyday routine. A nursing home holds a further registration allowing registered nurses to deliver clinical care on site, which becomes necessary for wound care, complex medication or continuous monitoring of a condition. Home care is a separate option again, bringing support to the person where they already live. A care needs assessment is the usual way to establish which of the three fits.

Home Care in Somerset

119 home care in Somerset (showing 101–119)