Finding the right home care support for a loved one is an important decision—one that often comes with many questions. Whether you’re considering help for the first time or exploring new options, knowing what to ask a home care agency can give you peace of mind and help you make the best choice.
At In-Home Care, we understand the importance of trust, reliability, and clear communication. Below, we’ve outlined the key questions to ask when speaking with a provider, so you feel informed and confident about the care being arranged.
What types of care do you offer?
Care needs vary from person to person, so it’s important to check whether the agency offers the services your loved one requires. Some providers offer help with daily tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, and housekeeping, while others may provide more comprehensive options, such as overnight or live-in care.
At In-Home Care, we offer a range of flexible services, including hourly visits, overnight support, and full-time live-in care.
Are your carers directly employed by your agency?
Some agencies employ their carers, while others work with self-employed individuals. If carers are employed, the agency handles training, pay, and supervision. This often provides more consistency and oversight.
If the carers are self-employed, ask how the agency ensures they are qualified, experienced, and properly vetted. It’s also helpful to know who takes responsibility if any issues arise.
What training do your carers receive?
Carers should be well-prepared before supporting someone in their home. Ask whether they’re trained in areas such as first aid, manual handling, safeguarding, and dementia care. It’s also important to find out if they receive ongoing refresher training.
At In-Home Care, all our carers receive initial training and continuous development to ensure safe, effective support.
Will my loved one see the same carer regularly?
Consistency can make a big difference, especially for people living with dementia or anxiety. Ask how often the same carer will visit and what happens if they’re unavailable.
We aim to build strong, trusting relationships by keeping carers consistent and making sure there’s always a back-up plan in place when needed.
How is the care plan created?
A personalised care plan should reflect your loved one’s needs, preferences, and daily routine. Ask whether the agency will carry out a home visit before starting care and whether the family can be involved in the planning process.
Care plans should be reviewed regularly and updated when needs change.
How will we be kept informed?
Communication between the agency and the family is essential. Ask how they’ll keep you updated—whether through phone calls, regular reports, or check-ins—and who your main point of contact will be.
We believe in open and transparent communication, keeping families informed every step of the way. You’ll also receive regular welfare check-in calls from your dedicated Client Liaison Manager.
How much does care cost?
Understanding the cost of care upfront helps you plan with confidence. Ask for a full breakdown of pricing, including whether there are additional fees for evenings, weekends, or short-notice changes.
It’s also worth asking about minimum visit lengths and cancellation policies.
How are carers matched with clients?
A good match can make a big difference to your loved one’s experience. Ask whether carers are matched based on personality, experience, or shared interests. If possible, request an introductory visit before regular care begins.
What happens if there’s an emergency?
Find out how the agency handles emergencies, including last-minute carer absences or medical incidents. Is there an out-of-hours contact? How quickly can alternative arrangements be made?
It’s reassuring to know there’s a clear plan in place when something unexpected happens.
Are you registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)?
In England, care providers should be registered with the CQC. Ask whether the agency is registered and what their most recent inspection rating was. This helps ensure you’re choosing a provider that meets recognised standards of safety and quality.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a home care agency is about more than ticking boxes—it’s about finding a team you can trust to care for someone important to you. The right questions can help you feel confident in your decision and make sure your loved one receives the support they deserve.If you’d like to speak to someone about arranging care, contact us today. In-Home Care proudly supports families across Havant, Waterlooville & Petersfield, Cheshire & St Helens, Beaconsfield, Basingstoke, Chelmsford & Ipswich, Fareham & Portsmouth, Haslemere, and Chichester.
