Practical Matters

1 — Own Room & Living Space
A private space for the care worker is essential, with a bed and hanging space or wardrobes. We have seen situations where a live-in carer worker uses a sofa bed in a lounge, but this is far from ideal and not a long term solution. In terms of other provisions in a room, a television is a nice touch but not vital, however, WiFi internet access is essential.

2 — Bathrooms
A private bathroom is ideal but rarely the reality. Where a bathroom is shared with the carer and a client, it just needs to understand it will be a shared space from the outset.   

3 — Cooking
This detail often comes from the assessment process and understanding clearly what the client prefers. For example, if they would like companionship over meals. In some cases, a client will request meal preparation but in others they want to be part of cooking together. Use of the kitchen can sometimes cause tension, as we all tend to like our kitchens ‘just so’! It can take time to adjust to sharing the space, but it’s important that the carer can prepare meals for themselves and feel comfortable. Obviously, they will be respectful of the space and adapt to the client’s preferences.

4 — Cleaning
— Live-In carers are not professional cleaners, there remit in the first place is providing care and companionship. However, they will oversee general light domestic tasks that are essential to maintaining a pleasant and hygienic environment. They will clean as they go, day-to-day for example the kitchen and also do weekly cleaning tasks in areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom,  including linen.  

5— Food Allowance
A food allowance is usually the preferred option for live-in care worker, who receive a separate food allowance allocated weekly. This is on top of their weekly pay and allows them to purchase food they enjoy and meets their dietary requirements. However, this is not always the case and sometimes the care worker may add items to the general weekly shopping instead. This is all agreed at the outset.