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Arranging domiciliary care service for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming, but the process becomes manageable when broken down into clear steps. From identifying the need for support to creating a personalised care plan and choosing the right provider, each stage plays an important role in ensuring safe and effective care at home.
This guide walks you through the full process, including:
- How to request a care needs assessment
- What funding options are available
- What to expect when working with a care provider
- How to prepare the home environment
- And how to plan for emergencies and future needs
Whether you’re exploring care for the first time or revisiting existing arrangements, this guide will help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
What Is Domiciliary Care?
Domiciliary care refers to professional support services provided in the comfort of a person’s own home. It helps maintain their independence while assisting with day-to-day tasks, such as bathing, dressing, mobility, and medication.
For a full explanation, read our complete guide to domiciliary care.
When Should You Consider Domiciliary Care?
Domiciliary care is often introduced when someone begins to struggle with everyday tasks that they used to manage on their own. These changes can happen gradually or after a specific event like hospital discharge, illness, or a fall at home.
Common Signs Someone May Need Home Care:
- Difficulty with personal hygiene or getting dressed
- Missed meals or trouble preparing food
- Forgetting to take medication on time
- Frequent trips or falls around the home
- Signs of loneliness or isolation
- Unclean living space or neglected household tasks
Involving Family or Friends
Sometimes, the need for care is first recognised by family members, friends, or neighbours. Their input can be valuable when deciding on the level and type of support required.
Early Conversations Help
Discussing care needs early makes the process smoother and gives everyone time to plan. Starting this discussion before a crisis helps prevent rushed decisions and ensures the person’s care is involved in shaping the solution.
Step-by-Step: How to Arrange Domiciliary Care Services
Step 1: Identify the Need for Care
Recognise changes in physical ability, memory, or emotional wellbeing that may suggest additional support is needed. Start documenting daily challenges and consult with healthcare professionals or family for input.
Step 2: Request a Care Needs Assessment
Contact your local authority to arrange a care needs assessment. A social worker usually conducts it and helps determine the level of care required and funding eligibility.
Step 3: Explore Funding Options
- Local authority support based on a means test
- Direct payments to arrange your own care
- Private/self-funding if over the savings threshold
- Benefits and additional support (e.g. Attendance Allowance)
Step 4: Research & Compare Providers
- Check CQC ratings and client reviews
- Ask about carer qualifications and continuity
- Ensure flexibility and responsiveness to changing needs
Step 5: Develop a Personalised Care Plan
Create a care plan outlining tasks, visit schedules, medication support, personal preferences, and review intervals. It should involve the person receiving care and their family.
Step 6: Prepare the Home for Care Delivery
- Remove hazards and improve accessibility
- Organise medication and hygiene supplies
- Use technology (e.g. fall alarms, smart devices) for safety and support
Step 7: Arrange a Trial Period & Monitor Care
Start with a trial phase, monitor visits and feedback, and adjust the care plan as needed based on comfort, reliability, and outcomes.
Step 8: Plan for Emergencies & Contingencies
- Have backup carers or agency cover in place
- Share emergency contacts and medical information
- Agree on procedures for last-minute changes
Types of Domiciliary Care Services Available
- Personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)
- Medication management
- Meal preparation
- Companionship
- Respite care
- Live-in care
- Specialist care (e.g. dementia, palliative)
Support for Family and Informal Carers
- Carers assessments and support plans
- Access to respite care
- Emotional support and local carer groups
- Tools for coordinating with professional carers
Technology and Innovation in Home Care
- Emergency alert systems
- Smart medication reminders
- Remote monitoring sensors
- Apps for care tracking and family updates
Mental Health & Wellbeing in Domiciliary Care
- Social interaction and companionship
- Stability and routine to boost confidence
- Early detection of changes in mood or cognition
Legal & Practical Considerations
- Consent and capacity
- Power of Attorney (LPA)
- Safeguarding policies
- Privacy, data protection, and clear contracts
Changing or Ending Care Arrangements
Care can be reviewed or adjusted if needs change. You can also switch providers or transition to residential or live-in care if required. Always check the notice period in your care agreement.
Get Started with a Free Care Consultation
If you’re ready to arrange domiciliary care or want expert guidance on your options, we’re here to help. Our team offers a personalised consultation to discuss your needs, explain the process, and help you take the next step with confidence.
- Free advice on assessments, funding, and care planning
- Help to compare local care providers
- Guidance on specialist or emergency care options
📞 Call us today to speak with a friendly advisor
📩 Or use our contact form to request a callback at your convenience
