Live-in care is when the carer lives in the home with the person they are caring for and provide care whenever is required. This is what makes it the most comprehensive care. Live-in care gives our clients the advantage of full-time care and companionship within their home 24 hours a day. While being a carer is an incredibly demanding, emotional and draining profession, it is also one of the most rewarding. Knowing that you are looking after someone so that they are able to stay in their home, within their community and surrounded by cherished positions and photographs that hold precious memories.

With your care and knowledge, you will be able to help guide your clients through adjustments within themselves that would be difficult to manage on their own. Whether they are dealing with the loss of a spouse, a decline in general health or navigating a recent diagnosis with more serious health issues.

While live-in carers are on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week, everyone needs a break. In terms of daily routine, a live-in carer will work around their client’s wishes and habits, going to bed when they do, getting up around the same time. However live-in carers are entitled to having at 14 hours per week to themselves, this is typically broken up to 2 hours each day. During this time off, carers should feel as though they are able to come and go as they please. However, many clients who require live-in care, are not able to be left alone for long, let along 2 hours a day. This is why most carers will ensure that this break will line up with either a family member visiting or potentially a time when the client will go for a nap. It is important that carers are able to get outside regularly and recharge their batteries so they can provide their clients with the best possible care. This is also why it is so important to work alongside the client’s family, friends and community in regards to their care, so you and the client know that there will always be someone to come and oversee them while you take a break. Every family is different and every placement will be different, working together means you will be able to find a solution that works for everyone.

Caring for someone with a disability, terminal illness or someone who is continuing to decline can mean facing unique issues. You may be coping with your employer or family member’s physical and emotional needs, which can be very tiring and can take a toll on your own mental and physical health. When you are caring for someone, you can’t always avoid difficult feelings and they can stretch even the most resilient person to their limit. Regularly checking in with yourself, ensuring you are able to take regular breaks and even holidays is essential to ensuring you are able to continue caring for your client and not wearing yourself out.

Emotional support is available for carers, there are numerous links to support groups and networks through the NHS website as well as going through your local council. Help for carers can come through a range of different methods, whether that is speaking to someone professionally or a loved and trusted one, taking time to relax or taking a break from caring temporarily.