When it comes to choosing a homecare service there are a number of options available, each suitable for different circumstances. You may have noticed some introductory home care agencies offering live in care services for an attractive cost – some under £1,000 per week. These eye-catching figures often raise the question: what exactly is included in that cost?

In this blog, we aim to provide a clear, straightforward comparison between these introductory home care agencies, which are unregulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and registered home care companies. We’ll look at the costs, the services you can expect, and how to determine the best option for your care needs or those of a loved one when it comes to round-the-clock care.

What is an Introductory Home Care Agency?

Introductory home care organisations act as intermediaries, connecting clients with self-employed care professionals. This model has its distinct features and implications:

• Client-Caregiver Matching: One of the key functions of an introductory agency is to match clients with caregivers. They typically do this by assessing the needs of the client and then suggesting a suitable care worker from their pool of Caregivers. They are not regulated to provide comprehensive face-to-face assessments, so typically use an online form for assessments before starting. This can speed up the process but means less oversight in care planning.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Many often consider these models to be more cost-effective. This is largely because they have little to no direct involvement in managing the day-to-day care provided. The primary focus of these organisations is to introduce clients to caregivers, after which the client or their family typically manages the care arrangement.

• Operational Expenses: Introductory companies often have lower operational expenses than fully managed services. Being unregulated, they avoid the level of responsibility for ongoing supervision, training, or administration associated with home carers. This lower overhead often results in lower care costs but increases responsibility and risks for the receiving family.

• Level of Oversight: As facilitators rather than managers of care, they offer less oversight once a Caregiver starts working. This means that while they will carry out some level of due diligence to ensure that Caregivers are suitable, the day-to-day management of the care, including quality assurance, administration and adjustments to the care plan, typically falls to the client or their family.

• Responsibility for Care Delivery: As a result of this model, the responsibility for monitoring the standard of care often lies with the client or their family. Introductory home care agencies usually have an initial online assessment, which the family completes themselves. However, assessing the quality and ongoing effectiveness of care falls outside of their direct control. Without face-to-face assessments and regular reviews, the risks of mismanaging the carer and the care plan increase.

• Suitability: This model may be suitable for clients who prefer a greater degree of autonomy in managing their care arrangements or for those with less complex care needs, where direct oversight from a managed care provider may not be as critical.

Introductory home care agencies offer a more hands-off approach to care management and tend to be more budget-friendly for in-home support. However, they require clients to involve themselves more in the direct oversight of their care, which can add an unwanted strain. Understanding how this model works can help in making an informed decision about whether it aligns with your personal care needs or those of your loved one.

The Role and Regulation of a Registered Home Care Provider

Registered home care agencies must follow strict rules to make sure they give the best care. This includes important things like:

• Strict Regulations: They follow strict guidelines set by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Regular checks and evaluations ensure these providers maintain a high standard of care.

• Training and Skills: A big part of their promise is providing well-trained Caregivers. Whether you need simple assistance or more complex care, the staff come equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. The agency vets and checks carers through a robust recruitment process to ensure they deliver a high standard of care.

• Focus on Safety: Safety is a top priority. From everyday routines to emergency protocols, everything is designed to ensure the wellbeing of both clients and staff.

• Continuous Improvement:  Registered providers are committed to continually enhancing the quality of their care. They actively use feedback from regular inspections and their own evaluations to make sure they’re always improving.

• Reflecting Costs in Quality: The comprehensive nature of their services can mean higher costs. But this is a reflection of the quality, safety, and reliability they promise – aspects that are central to their service. There is a whole team dedicated to managing your care and giving you the support you need.

• Personalised Care Plans: To arrange care that meets your needs, a dedicated care manager will carry out a consultation where they’ll discuss your requirements and learn more about your daily routines. This ensures the care provided matches individual needs and preferences. Each client gets a care plan tailored to them, and regular care visits from a dedicated manager ensure it evolves throughout your care journey.

• Accountability and Redress: With strict regulations comes accountability. If issues arise, there are established channels for feedback and resolution, ensuring peace of mind and trust in the care received.

• Suitability: This is ideal for individuals with significant health challenges requiring regular medical attention. It also suits those who prefer a comprehensive, professionally managed care approach, ensuring consistency and quality in line with regulations.

In essence, opting for a registered homecare provider means choosing a service committed to excellence, safety, and personalisation, even if it might come at a higher cost. This approach ensures you or your loved one receives the best possible care, allowing you to continue living independently at home.

Cost Analysis: Comparing Both Models of Home Care Services

When looking into 24-hour home care, it’s really important to understand the costs and how they work. Here’s a simple breakdown to consider when you’re comparing different agencies and registered providers:

Introductory Agencies:

• Payment Structure: You will typically set up an arrangement to pay for your care directly with the Caregiver. You may also pay the agency a separate fee for matchmaking and administrative costs.

• Funding Options: When considering unregulated providers for home care, it’s important to note that they typically aren’t eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare (NHS CHC) funding. Regulated services that meet specific NHS standards usually receive this funding.

• Hidden Costs: While introductory companies may offer lower upfront rates, clients should be aware of potential additional costs such as background check fees and administrative charges. There may also be other optional add-ons like emergency support which can incur an added cost.

• Cancellation Fees: Some introductory agencies may charge cancellation fees if clients terminate their services before the agreed-upon period.

• Payroll Taxes: Clients may need to pay payroll taxes themselves when paying caregivers directly through a private introductory agency.

• Insurance: Introductory agencies typically do not accept insurance payments like long-term care insurance.

Registered Providers:

• Bundled Pricing:  Registered providers usually have a single price for everything covered under the service. This includes the cost for the Caregiver, the agency management, insurance, and administrative work.

• Funding Options: Registered private care providers are often eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare and local authority funding. This is due to their compliance with regulatory standards set by bodies like the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This can be a significant relief, covering some or all care costs, depending on individual assessments and eligibility.

• Value for Money: While the initial cost may be higher, the value provided often justifies the cost.

• Long-Term Care Insurance: Many accept long-term care insurance as payment.

• Additional Fees and Charges: May charge cancellation fees, late payment fees, or fees for urgent requests.

• Payroll & Benefits: The provider handles all Carers and staff finances including payroll, tax withholdings, and employee benefits.

Choosing the Most Ideal Live-In Care Option for Your Care Needs

When choosing a professional home care provider, it’s important to consider the types of services offered, the help you need and what administrative support you’ll get. Introductory or unregulated agencies typically suit those needing non-medical support, like companionship and daily living assistance. They offer a more flexible, self-managed approach to their services.

On the other hand, registered providers offer a wider range of services, including skilled medical care, managed by a specialist care team. This option suits those with complex medical needs requiring specialist care, or who prefer a more structured and comprehensive approach.

The decision between using an introductory or a registered provider depends on your unique situation. Think about what suits your needs best, whether it’s more control over your care or having everything taken care of for you and assurance in the standard of care provided.

Making the right choice in home care is important, and we’re here to help if you need it. If you want more information or advice, please get in touch with us. We’re ready to assist you in finding the care that’s just right for you or your loved one.