A guide to being a live in carer in Barnet

This is when a person lives with a client and assists them with their day-to-day needs. In exchange they receive accommodation, meals and wages.

What are the duties of a live-in carer?

The tasks are varied but can include: Preparing meals; Domestic help; Personal care; Shopping; Medication administration; Support getting out and about; Companionship & emotional support.

How long do I stay at the client’s home?

Typically our carers work 6-8 weeks and then take a holiday. However this can vary. We ensure that both our client and carer are happy with arrangements.

What is the situation with accommodation?

As a minimum our carers have a single bedroom with space for personal belongings. Often the carer has their own television and internet connection.

What about meals?

In most situations the client and carer eat together however this can vary. The client covers the cost of all reasonable food and drink shopping.

Who organises everything?

We do! We take care of breaks, holidays, the carers pay, national insurance & tax, training, reviews, and of course we deal with any issues that may arise.

What hours will I work?

We agree a support plan and average daily hours with each client and carer. We recognise the importance of our care team receiving appropriate breaks.

How are carers selected and matched to clients?

We ensure that carers have the right skill sets before introducing them to a potential client. In addition we match the personality of carer and client.

Can I meet the client before I am placed with them?

Always. Whenever possible we arrange a face-to-face introduction however we regularly use video calls when distance is an issue.

If I live outside of the UK, can I apply to become a live-in carer?

We regularly recruit people from overseas. Of course you must have the relevant permissions to work in England.

Can I work for Home Care Preferred on a self-employed basis?

This usually only applies if you are providing short term services for the company and qualify for self-employed status.

Do I need to drive and have a UK driving license?

This is not a requirement in most instances.

What is the rate of pay?

This depends on the level of support the carer provides with the client however it is a competitive rate. Live-in carers can earn and save a substantial amount due to the fact that they have no accommodation or food to pay for.

What are clients like?

Our clients come from a wide range of backgrounds and their support needs vary greatly. It is rare that our carers do not become fond of the people they support. Most clients live in comfortable homes in good locations.

Is there someone on call if there are problems?

Yes, there is a management team on call 24 hours a day in case of any emergency. We keep in regular touch with our carer, always ensuring everyone is satisfied.

Will I receive training?

As a minimum, all our carers have training in first aid, medication administration, health & safety, infection prevention & control, manual handling, customer care, safeguarding, fluid and nutrition. Every team member also has induction training which includes customer service coaching.

What are some of the advantages of being a live-in carer with Home Care Preferred?

Having a job that is highly rewarding.
Building a friendship with a client and their family
Being part of a company that values the work you carry out.
Potential for career progression.
Living in a new location and enjoying a different environment
Typically residing in a lovely home in a desirable area.
Financially rewarding with the opportunity to save money.
Holidays, tax and national insurance are all taken care of for you.
Having fun with the client you are supporting.

How can I find out more information?

Call and speak to one of our friendly live-in care advisors who will be very happy to answer questions. T: 020 8004 1603
Email us info@homecarepreferred.com or visit homecarepreferred.com

What our team are saying

“Excellent service, very reliable, caring. I received just the support I needed. The staff member was very kind and reassuring.”

Lucia

“I have been delighted with the warmth and care I have received! Very, very good. Excellent value for money!”

John F

“I have found the carers to be extremely valuable during my time of recovery post-operation. They have also taken care of my husband who has dementia.”

R.H

“Home Care Preferred were very professional and easy to deal with. The carer was attentive and pleasant and did everything we asked her to do and more. Very easy people to communicate with using emails – as I live in Australia”

Jackie N

“In the 6 years of having working closely with at least 3 agencies, and 11 carers, this is the first time I have found cares who have been so spot on, loving, gentle, friendly, warm and genuine. They stick to the routine and my nana is happy as can be.
They are consistent, on time, work well together and so very helpful and positive.
So grateful and happy.”

Jacquine G

“This is my first experience of needing help at home. I have been very impressed by the standards of best practice employed by Home Care Preferred. By the intelligent and well informed standards of care. The willingness and ability to help in any way needed or requested.
Also the meticulous attention to checks that the care given is accurate and of high quality. The courtesy of keeping client informed of any changes.”

P.B

“My parents are really delighted with the care and assistance that the carer provides to them. He always arrives promptly and my dad who is 91 is so grateful for help washing and dressing, it makes him much less tired and able to cope and enjoy his day. The carer is very kind, patient and aware of both my parent’s physical capacities. He is also excellent company and is just a pleasure. The carer organises my father’s medication, gives it to him, puts in his hearing aids, helps wash and dress him and gives him breakfast, He recognises my father’s need for engagement and they have good chats. I feel my parents are in the best and safest hands and that is all you can ask for.”

Jude D