Question 1

Which providers in the South East offer home care?

Accepted Answer

There are 2,485 home care agencies listed across the South East on Care Assura, ranging from national names to small local services. Examples include Home Instead Senior Care Maidenhead Henley and Wallingford, Caremark Thanet, Surrey Homecare Limited and Melody Care Aldershot Ltd. Coverage varies by postcode, so it is worth checking which agencies actually visit your street rather than assuming everyone listed for the region will come to you. Filtering by CQC rating and proximity is usually the quickest way to shortlist.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

A home care agency provides support with daily living such as washing, dressing, meals, medication prompts and companionship, delivered by trained care workers in the person's own home. A nursing agency employs registered nurses who can carry out clinical tasks like wound care, catheter management or administering injections. Some home care agencies also employ nurses or work alongside district nursing teams, but the two services are regulated and priced differently. If clinical needs are significant, a nursing led service or a combined package is often the right fit.

Question 3

What should I ask when meeting a home care agency in the South East?

Accepted Answer

Ask how carers are matched to clients and whether you will see a consistent small team rather than a rotating cast. Check how visits are timed, what happens if a carer is late or off sick, and how the agency communicates with families. It is fair to ask to see the most recent CQC report and to speak to the registered manager. Also confirm what is included in the hourly rate and whether travel time, mileage or cancellation fees are added on top.

Question 4

How do I arrange a care needs assessment in the South East?

Accepted Answer

Contact the adult social care team at the local authority responsible for the person's address and ask for a care needs assessment. The assessment is free, does not depend on income, and is carried out by a social worker or occupational therapist who will visit and talk through daily routines and difficulties. You do not need a diagnosis or a GP referral to request one. Family members and carers can request the assessment on behalf of someone else, with their agreement.

Question 5

Can the local authority pay for home care?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the local authority can contribute towards home care costs following the needs assessment and a separate financial assessment. If savings and capital fall below the upper threshold set nationally, some or all of the cost will be met by the council, with the person contributing from income where appropriate. Those above the threshold usually arrange and pay privately, though they are still entitled to the needs assessment and to advice on choosing a provider. Direct payments are an option for people who want to commission their own carers.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

If the need is not urgent, giving yourself four to six weeks allows time for an assessment, trial visits and a proper handover. Good agencies in popular parts of the South East can have short waiting lists, particularly for early morning or evening calls. When someone is coming home from hospital, the process can be much quicker because reablement and discharge teams help arrange initial support. Even in a rush, take the time to read the CQC report and ask the key questions before signing.

Home Care in the South East

2,520 home care in the South East (showing 2501–2520)