You’ve decided that you need to hire a private home carer, whether it be for yourself or for a loved one who needs a bit of extra help. Now that that decision has been made, there are a few things to take into account, and knowing what you should consider before hiring a private home carer.
So, what should you consider when hiring a private home carer?
Do you need someone to regularly visit to help with small tasks like ironing, light housekeeping, meal preparations? Or do you need someone who can be around all the time to help with daily life?
Here are the different types of carers who offer different levels of care:
- Team of home carers – This may be a team of two carers who work together to provide 24/7 care. This type of live in home carer would be suitable for someone who needs help with most daily activities,. Needs someone present all the time, and can be a long term solution.
- Single live-in home carer – A single live-in home carer would usually live in the property or in nearby accommodation provided by the individual or family. This type of live in home carer would also be suitable for someone who needs help with most daily activities. However they are unable to work more than 6 days a week without a break
- Live out home carer – These carers would visit your loved one for a set number of hours each day/week. They might also be able to provide on-call and emergency support depending on their location to the property and other commitments. They are suitable for individuals who only need assistance with certain tasks, and do not need someone to be present 24/7.
You should understand what it takes to actually hire someone. If that is the route you will take. In that case, then this handy UK government guide will help
Accommodation
If you have decided that you need a live-in carer, you will need to consider their accommodation. Will you provide them with a double bedroom and bathroom? Do you have separate accommodation where they can live while they are working? Having a live-in carer can provide peace of mind but you will need to ensure that they have their own space as well. This accommodation should include all bills, wifi, etc.
Do you need to make upgrades to your home?
Do you struggle with mobility? You may need to make changes to your home to ensure it is safe for both yourself and your new private home carer. Perhaps a stairlift, handrails, or a bath seat should be installed.
Duties
You can tailor the job description of your private home carer to suit your needs – the type of carer you choose will depend on what you need them to do. Some duties may include:
- Cooking and cleaning
- Help with personal care like washing and using the toilet
- Driving or help with getting around
- Medical tasks like giving injections or changing a catheter
- Shopping, banking and paying bills
How much should you pay?
Salary ranges entirely on the private home carers qualifications and experience. Here are our guidelines on what your carer would expect to be paid:
- Entry Level Carer will expect between £400-600net per week or between £15-20 net per hour (if part time)
- Mid Level Carer will expect between £600-800net per week or between £20-28 net per hour (if part time)
- High Level Specialist Carer will expect upwards of £800net per week or upwards of £28 net per hour (if part time)
If you have considered all of the above, and are ready to hire a private home carer, or if you would like to talk through your options with us, please give us a call 0203 858 0233 or contact us here