Frequently Asked Questions
We have carefully compiled these FAQ's to help you make a decision about the care that you require and to assist you with the practicalities of beginning your journey with a domiciliary care agency
Why is it important to research home care providers?
CQC inspect and monitor all homecare company services, to ensure they are meeting fundamental standards of quality and safety; they publish detailed reports on their website www.cqc.org.uk .
How can I encourage someone I care about to accept help?
A reluctance to accept care is a very natural reaction as the person concerned may be afraid of losing their independence or they may be unaware they may need help. In our experience, another potential barrier is the thought of ‘strangers’ in the house. Please be reassured, if your relative really dislikes the visits after a trial period, they can give notice as detailed in the contract. This often helps a reluctant relative to have an ‘escape clause’ but in reality people rarely give notice once the calls are established and a rapport has been built.
Why is it important to discuss my options and preferences with my loved ones?
Fully involving the person who is to receive the care and support is vital, but it is also important to try to express how you feel about the situation...let your feelings be known. It may help to explain the visits are also being planned to help you. In many cases the person being provided for will feel less inclined not to accept the calls if they feel they are also there to help another rather than just themselves. In our experience, this can also help with the very natural feeling of ‘losing some independence'.
Why is it important to speak with the Care management team?
Prior to the start of a care package it is imperative to speak to a member of the Safe and Sound Homecare Management Team; they will always be available to speak or communicate with you directly. When you first make contact the team member will respond in a timely, informative, knowledgeable and professional manner and show a genuine interest to learn about the needs of you, your relative or friend...they will be able and qualified to answer all your questions and/or concerns.
What happens if my relative or I are unhappy with a particular carer?
This is a very rare occurrence as all our carers are well trained and supervised and are fully aware of an individual’s needs and preferences.
Why is it important for us to demonstrate good communications?
It is very important you and your relative have confidence we will always be available to help and assist with requests and in contacting others including health professionals and emergency services. We will demonstrate ways in which effective communication is assured via our Safe and Sound Homecare Management Team and On-Call out of hour’s service. We will continue to review and meet the requirements of you, relative or friend as needs change over time and assure all concerned there is an on-call professional available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and unplanned changes.
How do we recruit and train carers?
Why it is important to have Risk Assessment and Quality Reviews?