One of the most popular choices for care is hiring a local care company, but with so many to choose from, how do you know which one is the right fit for your needs?
SoGlos chats to care provider Village Care, which has offices in Thornbury, Cirencester and Gloucester, about some of the most important factors to consider.
Group head of marketing at Village Care, Clive Davy, said: 'With so many big corporate care providers out there, it is very much about finding a care company that can provide that warm personal attention that every client deserves along with the flexibility that you need as circumstances change.'
So, why choose a local care company?
Clive says one of the main benefits of choosing a local care provider is the convenience and accessibility it offers.
He said: 'With a local company, you can easily schedule in-person meetings, have face-to-face communication, and have a carer who is readily available in case of emergencies. This can provide peace of mind for both the client and their family members.'
Local care providers are often familiar with the community and can provide personalised care that considers the unique needs and preferences of the client. They may also have connections with local resources and services that can be beneficial for the client.
When it comes to fees, hiring a local care company can also be a cost-effective option compared to other care options, such as assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
Clive said: 'With a local care provider, you only pay for the services you need, and you can choose the level of care that fits your budget.'
He reckons one of the best ways to find a reputable local care company is by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare professionals who can provide valuable insights. Failing that, online reviews can give an idea of the quality of care provided as well as the reputation of the provider.
Different local care companies may offer different services, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and the services provided. Some companies may specialise in certain types of care, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia care, while others may offer a wide range of care services.
It's also worth considering whether you want Care Quality Commission regulated care providers like Village Care or introductory care agencies which serve as intermediaries between clients and self-employed care workers and operate within a less regulated framework.
Clive recommends inquiring about the training and qualifications of carers when researching companies to ensure they have experience in providing care for your specific needs.
He believes it’s important to know how the company supervises and supports their carers. Both for monitoring the quality of care provided as well as ongoing training and support for carers.
He said: 'Knowing that the carers are well-supported and supervised can give you peace of mind and ensure the best care for you or your loved one.'
Another crucial issue to consider is availability and flexibility to accommodate your schedule and provide reliable care.
It’s also important to know how the care provider matches carers with clients to ensure you or your loved one is matched with a carer who is the best fit for your needs.
Clive said: 'Choosing a local care agency is a big decision, and it’s important to take the time to research and consider all factors before making a choice.
'By asking for recommendations, researching online, and considering factors such as accreditation, services offered, and carer training, you can find the best care company nearby for you or your loved one.
'With the right care provider, you can have peace of mind knowing that you or your loved one is receiving the best care possible.'
