Outstanding Live-in Care in Bedfordshire
Providers of CQC Rated outstanding home care services to older people in their own homes, giving you complete peace of mind.
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What is Live-in Care and How Does it Work?
24-hour home care means a professional Caregiver will live with you in your own home to provide round-the-clock support. This is ideal for anyone who needs full-time care but wants to stay in their own home. It’s a practical alternative to moving into a residential care home, providing you or your loved one with continuous, personalised care in a familiar environment.
This page gives you an in-depth look at live-in care in Bedfordshire to help you make an informed decision. You'll discover everything from the roles of live-in carers to the costs involved in providing this type of care.
You'll also find guidance on deciding if 24-hour live-in care suits your needs, along with tips on choosing the best care service. Our aim is to provide you with all the necessary information to find the best possible care for your loved one.
Is 24-Hour Live-In Care Suitable for My Loved One?
Continuous care at home is an effective solution for those needing continuous assistance, particularly suitable for individuals with long-term health conditions or limited mobility. It's also ideal for someone who values daily support and the company of a Caregiver. Live-in care allows your loved one to maintain their regular lifestyle and remain in the comfort of their own home.
We provide Live-in Care across the whole of Bedfordshire including:
Arlesey
Barton-le-Clay
Bedford
Biggleswade
Cranfield
Flitwick
Leighton Buzzard
Luton
Potton
Sandy
Shefford
Stotford
We provide Live-in Care across the whole of Bedfordshire including:
Arlesey
Barton-le-Clay
Bedford
Biggleswade
Cranfield
Flitwick
Leighton Buzzard
Luton
Potton
Sandy
Shefford
Stotford
Understanding Live-In Care Costs in Bedfordshire
Live-in care offers a desirable option for those wishing to remain in their familiar home environment while receiving needed support. The costs for live-in care vary, reflecting factors like care needs, provider experience, and location.
Costs of Live-In Care
Live-in care costs typically depend on the level of care needed and the qualifications of the care team.
At Unique Senior Care, we focus on providing clear and fair pricing for personalised, award-winning home care:
For Individuals: Our weekly rate for a single person's care is from £1,785, including comprehensive, personalised support.
For Couples: A dual-care package costs from £2,240 per week, providing shared care and assistance to both individuals.
Why Costs Vary
Several factors can affect live-in care pricing:
- Regional Differences: Costs can fluctuate based on the area.
- Care Requirements: The need for more intensive care, particularly for complex health conditions, typically leads to higher costs.
- Type of Provider: Prices may be higher for home care providers regulated by bodies like the Care Quality Commission (CQC), due to their adherence to high standards and detailed care management.
Funding Options for Live-In Care
Various funding sources are available for live-in care services:
- Personal Funding: The care can be paid for by the individual or their family.
- Local Authority Contribution: Financial support may be offered, dependent on an assessment of care needs and financial status.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare: This option covers all costs for those with substantial medical needs.
- Other Financial Support:
- Attendance Allowance: Available for those over State Pension age requiring assistance due to health or disability issues, providing weekly funds.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP): Aimed at individuals aged 16 to State Pension age with ongoing health conditions or disabilities, contributing towards extra expenses.
Understanding these options and their specific edibility criteria is important for selecting the most appropriate funding option.
Meet your Live-In Care Manager for Bedfordshire
Kate
Live-In Care Manager For Bedfordshire
Kate McGourlay joined our team in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of caring experience from her 30 years spent as a paediatric sister. Kate seamlessly transitioned from paediatric to elder care, applying her experience in nursing and healthcare to understand and meet our clients' unique needs. In her role as the Live-In Care Manager for the East,
Kate develops personalised care plans for our clients, supports our Caregivers to ensure top-notch care delivery, and addresses any challenges that clients or Caregivers might face. She’s dedicated to making sure every individual feels heard and valued, ensuring a high standard of care throughout Bedfordshire.
When she's not working, Kate loves spending time with her family, including her two daughters, husband, and their adorable Labrador, Ferdie. Kate's most fulfilling moments come from seeing the positive impact of care on her clients and hearing the colourful stories they have to share.
She believes in treating each client with the same kindness and attention she would want for her own family. Her personal touch and caring nature are what help make a real difference in the lives of everyone she works with.
Kate is supported by a dedicated senior team all equally as passionate about providing the best possible care and service for our clients.
What Makes Unique Senior Care Different?
You can be assured that we have an absolute focus on providing the very highest quality, person-centred Live-in Care for our clients in and around Bedfordshire.
As a provider of regulated care services, you can be confident in the knowledge that we are fully registered and compliant with the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) regulations.
We are one of only 4% of home care providers in England to have been awarded an Outstanding rating by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
Our award-winning service is based on personal experience and ensuring we always put ‘people above all else’
We are regularly recognised as providing industry leading training to our colleagues
Our services are personalised and tailored to your needs with the aim of allowing you to remain living independently in your own home
You will receive a service that is Well-led, Safe, Caring, Responsive and Effective
All of our Caregivers are directly employed
We only recruit the best (our application to hire rate is 1 from 100) and all our Caregivers must pass our ‘Mum Test’ i.e. we would allow them to look after our own loved ones
Clients and their families have rated us in 2023 as one of the Top 20 homecare providers in England
Your 100% satisfaction is our aim – if you think we need to do better, please let us know
Our standards are uncompromising, and we are very proud of our reputation for providing an outstanding service
Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a Live-In Carer in Bedfordshire
A live-in carer plays a vital role, offering more than just basic care. They are key to enhancing their client's daily life through both physical and emotional support in the comfort of your own home.
Personal Care Help: Assists with everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming.
Medication Administration: Ensures medications are taken correctly and on time.
Food Preparation: Cooks meals suited to the client’s dietary needs.
Housekeeping: Maintains cleanliness and order in the living space.
Companionship: Offers a friendly ear and meaningful conversation.
Assisting with Mobility: Helps with moving around the house and going out.
Supporting Hobbies and Social Activities: Encourages and supports with hobbies and social activities
Ensuring Compatibility Between Carer and Client
At Unique Senior Care, we understand the importance of pairing clients with the right Caregiver. We carefully consider factors like personalities, interests, and preferences to ensure a harmonious match. This thoughtful approach is fundamental to our service, as it cultivates a supportive and effective care relationship. Ensuring compatibility is key to making sure our clients are comfortable and content with their Caregiver, ultimately enhancing the overall care experience.
"We were looking for live-in care for my mother and were delighted to find Unique Senior Care. From the first conversation on the phone to subsequent communications, I have found the staff to be incredibly helpful, friendly, understanding and clear in terms of the service provided.
Our first meeting with the live-in care manager was a lovely experience and helped to reassure my mum about arrangements. Most importantly, having just finished the first two weeks of live-in care, we could not have asked for more from a caregiver, who has taken wonderful care of my mum, cooking her nutritious meals, making sure she is clean, comfortable and safe and providing excellent company.
It feels such a relief to know that my mum is in good hands while also able to stay in her home. Thank you, Unique Senior Care." - PS, Daughter of a Client
Why Choose Live In Care in Bedfordshire?
24-hour home care is an ideal solution for those requiring ongoing support while preferring to stay in their own environment. This allows your loved one to continue enjoying Leighton Buzzard's vibrant community or the peaceful countryside of Cranfield while getting the expert care and support they need to live well.
Benefits of Home Care in Bedfordshire
Home care offers numerous benefits, significantly improving quality of life and supporting independence:
Tailored Personal Care: Each care plan is uniquely designed to align with the individual's specific needs, preferences, and daily routines.
Constant Support: Offering reliable, around-the-clock assistance, this ensures both client safety and peace of mind for family members.
Independence in Familiar Surroundings: Home care enables individuals to continue living in their own homes, fostering independence and providing comfort in familiar settings.
Flexibility and Adaptability: The care is responsive to changing needs and circumstances, ensuring it remains relevant and effective for each individual.
Family Participation: We encourage family involvement in care planning, leading to better understanding and communication between all parties.
Cost Efficiency: Live-in care is often more economical compared to residential care facilities, yet it upholds high-quality care standards.
Comfort of Home: Living in a well-known environment reduces stress and anxiety, contributing to overall well-being.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Focused on improving everyday life, the care is personalised and attentive.
Continuous Health Monitoring: Regular health assessments allow for timely adjustments in care, ensuring the best possible support is provided.
How to Find the Right Live-In Care Service?
Finding a high-quality live-in care service requires careful consideration. Whether you're in the bustling town of Bedford or the quaint charm of Shefford, there are several key factors to consider.
What to Look for in a Live In Care Provider in Bedfordshire?
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Live-in Care Agency
In your search for a live-in care agency, it's important to ask questions such as:
Details about their experience in live-in care and the qualifications and training of their caregivers.
Their process for matching caregivers with clients, and how they manage emergencies.
How they handle feedback and complaints, and a clear explanation of their fee structure for live-in care.
Factors to Consider When Exploring Live in Care Services in Bedfordshire
When deciding on a care provider, take into account:
What services they provide and if they fit what you need.
The training and background of the carers, and the agency’s reputation.
The cost of the services and whether it works with your budget.
Getting opinions from people you know and reading what other clients have said for a better idea of their service quality.
Training and Qualifications of a Live In Carer in Bedfordshire
At Unique Senior Care, we rigorously select our Caregivers, choosing only one out of every 80 applicants. This ensures each Caregiver not only has a minimum of one year of experience but also embodies the high level of commitment and skill we value.
- Extensive Training Program: Our caregivers receive comprehensive training in key areas, including dementia care, first aid, and medication management to ensure the care we provide meets the highest standards.
- Focus on Continuous Learning: We prioritise ongoing professional development, keeping our team updated with the latest in care techniques and best practices.
- Awards and Recognition: Our high standards in training are recognised by notable awards. We received the Princess Royal Training Award in 2021 and again in 2024 and were acknowledged as a Centre of Excellence by Skills for Care in 2022, highlighting our dedication to exceptional training and development.
What is the Difference Between Live-In Home Care Services and Residential Care?
It's important to understand the key differences between 24-hour live-in care and residential care to make an informed decision that best suits your loved one's needs.
| One-to-one care provided in the person’s own home. | Care takes place in a residential facility with personal living areas. |
| Offers customised, one-to-one assistance. | Care is group-based, with communal activities for social engagement. |
| Encourages maintaining personal independence and existing routines. | Provides a balance of semi-independence and community involvement. |
| Keeps individuals in their familiar environment, aiding emotional health and wellbeing | Requires adjustment to a new environment with communal living. |
| Enables direct involvement of family in care and decision-making processes. | Family involvement is more structured, often with specific visiting times. |
How 24-Hour Live-in Care works
What Care Services are Offered in Bedfordshire?
Besides home care, there's a variety of care services in Bedfordshire to consider. Each offers different support, catering to various needs. Knowing what services are available helps in choosing the right care.
Types of Care Services Offered
- Home Care Packages: These provide tailored care in your own home, designed to meet your unique needs in a familiar setting.
- Day Care Options: Perfect for those needing support during the day, these services offer activities and social interaction, while individuals remain living at home.
- Residential Care Facilities: For continuous or more complex care, these facilities provide comprehensive assistance in a communal living setting.
- Specialised Care Services: Targeted at specific health conditions like dementia or palliative care, these options provide specialised attention tailored to each individual's situation.
Navigating Live-In Home Care in Bedfordshire
How to Arrange a Quality Care Service in Bedfordshire?
Arranging high quality home care involves a step-by-step process to ensure care is tailored to your needs, whether you're in Leighton Buzzard, Bedford, or any other area in the county:
Initial Contact:
Start by reaching out to a trusted care service provider in your area. Our team at Unique Senior Care is on hand to discuss the care and support you need and answer any questions you may have.
Personalised Care Plan Assessment:
 A dedicated care manager will conduct a comprehensive consultation, considering your requirements and preferences for live-in care. This is an opportunity to address any questions you might have.
Carer Matching:
We carefully select a specially trained Carer to deliver round the clock care, ensuring they're well-suited to your personality and care needs.
Developing a Tailored Care Package:
 A custom plan of care is crafted, taking into account all the details from the consultation.
Implementation and Home Visit:
The care manager organises a visit to finalise your package and introduce your chosen Caregiver who will deliver care for your loved one.
What is the Role of a Care Agency in Live-in Care at Home?
Choosing a live-in care agency regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) ensures a professional and organised approach at-home care. Their role encompasses:
Staff Recruitment and Management: The agency takes great care in selecting skilled caregivers to deliver specialist care. They conduct thorough background checks and provide continuous training to maintain high care standards.
Quality Monitoring and Assessments: They regularly assess the quality of care against both the individual needs of clients and regulatory benchmarks, ensuring top-notch service.
Handling Administrative Tasks: The agency efficiently manages all the logistics, including scheduling, handling payments, and updating care plans when necessary.
Compliance with Regulatory Standards: Adhering to CQC guidelines, the agency commits to high standards in all aspects of care, from safety protocols to overall service delivery.
Emergency and Contingency Planning: A dedicated care team is prepared for any unexpected situations. The agency has robust plans in place to ensure that care remains uninterrupted, whatever the circumstances.
"My first experience of Unique was for my husband who had dementia. The carers were excellent helping him to shower and shave when he wouldn't let me help him. When I needed care myself, Unique was the obvious choice for me. I have been very happy and satisfied with the service I have received and would have no hesitation in recommending them." - PW, a Unique Senior Care client
Making the right choice for live-in home care is important for you and your family's peace of mind. You want assurance that your loved one receives personal, high-quality care in the comfort of their own home.
We're here to guide you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out to us for any advice on home care services in Bedfordshire or to discuss whether this might be the right long-term care option for you.
As well as providing Live In Care in Bedfordshire, we also provide full-time care services across England, including the neighbouring counties of Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.
Local Resources for Support in Bedfordshire
- Central Bedfordshire Council - They offer various adult social care services and support in Central Bedfordshire.
- Bedford Borough Council - Provides adult social care services in the Bedford area.
- Luton Borough Council - Offers adult social care services in Luton.
- Age UK Bedfordshire - Local branch of Age UK offering support and services for older adults..
- Alzheimer's Society - Provides a comprehensive list of support services including advice, support groups, and information on living with or caring for someone with dementia. Find support local to you you.
- Mind BLMK (Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes) - Mental health support services including counselling and support groups.
- The Disability Resource Centre - Based in Dunstable, offering services to support disabled people, including advice and advocacy.
- Carers in Bedfordshire - A local charity providing resources, workshops, and support for carers across the region.
- BLMK Health and Care Partnership -Â Coordinates health and care services in Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes, focusing on the wellbeing of local residents, including older adults and carers.
