What is Domiciliary Care?

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Perhaps you’re managing fine most of the time — but mornings feel rushed, evenings feel lonely, or certain everyday tasks have started to feel overwhelming.

With hourly visits, a trusted carer comes at the times you choose, helping with things like washing, dressing, medication, meal preparation, light housework, or simply providing companionship and a friendly chat.

It’s care that fits into your day — there when you need it, but never taking away your independence.

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Who is it for?

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• People who want to remain in their own home but need help at certain points in the day — for example, getting ready in the morning, preparing an evening meal, or having company at a set time to feel reassured.
   

• Those recovering from illness, injury, or a hospital stay who need short-term support to regain confidence and independence, but do not yet require full-time assistance.
   

• Individuals who are mostly independent but would benefit from a regular helping hand to stay safe, maintain routines, and avoid unnecessary strain on themselves or family members.

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What are the benefits?

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• Stay in the comfort and familiarity of your own home while receiving the practical or personal help you need, allowing you to feel secure without the disruption of moving elsewhere.
   

• A service that is flexible and tailored to your needs, whether that’s help at the same time every day, occasional extra visits when needed, or a specific focus such as medication prompts or meal preparation.
   

• Preserves your daily routines and lifestyle choices so that support feels like an enhancement, not a restriction — allowing you to continue doing the things you enjoy in the way you prefer.

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What are some considerations?

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• Support is limited to the times booked, so unexpected needs outside of these hours may require additional arrangements or alternative services.
   

• You may see a variety of carers depending on the provider’s rota, which can be less suitable for those who value a single familiar face.

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• Other types of assistance, such as overnight care or medical visits, may need to be organised separately, as hourly visits typically focus on planned, time-limited support.

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How does My Care Direction help?

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We go far beyond handing you a list of agencies and leaving you to figure it out. We take time to understand exactly what you need, when you need it, and how you’d like it to be delivered. We recommend carefully vetted local providers who have been checked for quality, reliability, and professionalism.

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We’ll work with you to agree clear schedules, outline exactly what each visit should involve, and help set realistic expectations from the outset. We can also provide ongoing oversight to make sure the care you receive remains consistent, dependable, and aligned with your wishes — giving you and your loved ones peace of mind that you’re in safe hands.

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Would regular visits at set times give you the right balance of support and independence — enough help to make life easier, while still leaving you in control of your day?

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If you’re wondering whether hourly care could be the right fit, we can walk you through trusted local providers, help design a schedule that suits your lifestyle, and compare costs so you can make a confident, informed decision.

What is Live-in Care?

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Imagine waking up and knowing help is already there — no waiting for the doorbell, no rushing through the essentials before the carer’s next visit.

Live-in care means one dedicated person (or a small team) lives in your home, providing round-the-clock support that adapts to your daily rhythm.

It’s the closest you can get to one-to-one care without leaving your own four walls.

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Who is it for?

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• People needing continuous support throughout the day and night, whether for personal care, medication management, mobility assistance, or simply the reassurance that someone is always nearby in case of emergencies.
   

• Those who value familiar and consistent care from a single trusted person, allowing strong relationships to develop and removing the stress of explaining routines or preferences to a constant stream of new carers.
   

• Individuals with complex or evolving care needs — such as advanced illness, mobility issues, or cognitive conditions — who benefit from a carer who understands their history, adapts to changes, and provides stability without the disruption of moving to a care home.

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What are the benefits?

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• A dedicated carer who truly knows your routines, preferences, and personality, making everyday life smoother, more comfortable, and free from the need to repeat instructions.
   

• Care shaped entirely around your lifestyle, from mealtimes and favourite hobbies to the little details that matter most, without the restrictions of fixed visit schedules.
   

• The ability to remain in your own home with minimal disruption, preserving your independence, familiar surroundings, pets, and community connections, while still receiving the level of care you need.

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What are some considerations?

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• A spare bedroom or suitable private space is required for the carer to sleep, rest, and store their belongings, which may mean rearranging rooms or furniture.
   

• Costs are generally higher than hourly domiciliary care due to the intensity and availability of round-the-clock support, and budgeting should account for this ongoing expense.
   

• For long-term arrangements, a rota of carers is often needed to allow rest breaks and time off, which means you may have occasional changes in who is providing your care, even if consistency is prioritised.

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How does My Care Direction help?

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We match you with live-in carers who fit both your care needs and your personality. We ensure the right skills are in place, handle all the practical arrangements, and provide ongoing oversight so you and your family have complete peace of mind.

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Would having one dedicated person in your home bring more peace of mind than relying on different carers?

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We can introduce you to experienced live-in carers and manage all the details, so you can focus on daily life rather than logistics.

What is Specialist Care at Home?

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Some conditions demand more than general care.

If you’re living with dementia, Parkinson’s, or a serious illness, you may want specialist help without the upheaval of moving.

Specialist home care brings trained carers or nurses into your home — so you can receive expert support where you feel safest.

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Who is it for?

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• People with advanced, complex, or progressive health conditions — such as dementia, neurological disorders, or terminal illness — who require skilled care beyond standard personal assistance.
   

• Those who wish to avoid prolonged hospital stays or moving into a care home, preferring instead to manage their condition in the comfort and familiarity of their own home.
   

• Families who need professional guidance and hands-on expertise to manage symptoms, equipment, and care routines, particularly when dealing with challenging behaviours, mobility limitations, or end-of-life needs.

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What are the benefits?

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• Tailored care plans designed specifically for your medical condition, ensuring the right balance of clinical knowledge, practical help, and emotional support.
   

• The comfort of receiving care in a familiar and reassuring environment, surrounded by personal belongings, loved ones, and routines that can reduce anxiety and promote wellbeing.
   

• Flexible arrangements in both hours and level of care, allowing you to increase or decrease support as your needs change, without having to relocate or adjust to institutional routines.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Costs are generally higher than general home care due to the additional training, qualifications, and expertise required from specialist carers or nurses.
   

• Specialist carers with the right skills and experience may be harder to find locally, which can sometimes mean waiting for the right match or sourcing from outside your immediate area.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We find and vet carers or nurses with the exact expertise you need. We coordinate closely with your healthcare team, adapt care plans as your needs evolve, and ensure you’re never left without the right level of support in place.

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Do you need a carer with specific training for your health condition?

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Let us match you with professionals who understand your condition and can work alongside your healthcare team.

What are Home Adaptations & Technology?

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Maybe you don’t need daily care — you just need your home to work with you instead of against you.

That could mean grab rails in the bathroom, a stairlift, or technology like fall detectors and video door entry.

Small changes can make a big difference in staying safe and independent at home.

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Who is it for?

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• People with reduced mobility, whether due to ageing, illness, or injury, who want to make it easier to move safely and confidently around their home without unnecessary strain or risk.
   

• Anyone wanting to stay at home longer, who wishes to maintain independence and avoid or delay moving into residential care by making the living environment more accessible and manageable.
   

• Those at risk of falls or accidents, including older adults, people living alone, or those recovering from surgery, who want preventative measures in place to increase safety and peace of mind.

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What are the benefits?

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• Safer movement and greater ease in daily life, helping you maintain confidence and independence while reducing the likelihood of slips, trips, or other injuries.
   

• Can lessen the need for frequent care visits, allowing you to manage more tasks yourself and have greater control over when and how assistance is provided.
   

• Some adaptations may be funded or subsidised, meaning you might be able to access grants or local authority support to reduce or remove the cost of essential improvements.

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What are some considerations?

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• Initial installation costs can vary greatly, depending on the type of adaptation or equipment, so it’s important to research prices, budget realistically, and explore available funding.
   

• A professional assessment is essential to ensure changes are suitable for your specific needs and future requirements, avoiding unnecessary work or poorly fitted adaptations.

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How does My Care Direction help?

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We assess your home with safety and independence in mind. We recommend practical solutions, help you apply for funding where available, and connect you to trusted local installers — so changes are done properly the first time.

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Could simple changes to your home make everyday life easier and safer?

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We can assess your home, recommend practical improvements, and help you secure funding where possible.

What are Retirement Flats / Apartments?

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Perhaps the house feels too big now — more to clean, more to heat, and more to maintain than you need.

Retirement flats or apartments give you a home of your own that’s easier to manage, with neighbours nearby and often a warden or scheme manager for added reassurance.

It’s still independent living, just in a setting designed with later life in mind.

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Who is it for?

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• Independent older adults who are still able to manage their day-to-day activities but want a home that’s simpler to maintain, freeing up more time and energy for hobbies, travel, or socialising without the burden of a large property.
   

• People looking to downsize to something more manageable, perhaps after children have moved out, where a smaller space offers less physical strain and reduced running costs, yet still provides comfort, privacy, and personal style.
   

• Those looking for a friendly community feel, where neighbours are in similar stages of life, offering mutual understanding, companionship, and shared activities without compromising independence.

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What are the benefits?

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• A low-maintenance home that requires less cleaning, upkeep, and repair work, allowing you to focus on enjoying life rather than spending energy on home management.
   

• Opportunities for social connection, with other residents often arranging coffee mornings, clubs, or shared events, helping to combat loneliness and maintain an active lifestyle.
   

• Proximity to local shops, services, and amenities, meaning daily errands can often be done on foot or with minimal travel, keeping life simple and convenient.

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What are some considerations?

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• Service charges will apply for maintenance of shared areas, building insurance, and management, and these can vary considerably depending on the property and provider.
   

• Care, if required, must usually be arranged separately, meaning that while the property may have safety features, any personal care needs will require sourcing external support or visiting carers.

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How does My Care Direction help?

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We guide you through the options, help you understand the contracts and costs, and find somewhere that feels like home — not just a place to live.

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Would a smaller, low-maintenance home in a friendly community suit your lifestyle?

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We can help you compare options, check contracts, and make the move as stress-free as possible.

What are Retirement Villages?

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Imagine having a home you own or rent, but with a café, gym, gardens, activities, and healthcare all just a short walk away.

Retirement villages combine independence with a ready-made community and amenities, so life can be as social or as quiet as you choose.

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Who is it for?

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• Active retirees who enjoy social interaction, hobbies, and community life, and want easy access to facilities that support a fulfilling and engaging lifestyle without the need for constant travel.
   

• People seeking a lifestyle-focused environment, where the setting is designed to promote wellbeing, leisure, and community spirit, with everything from fitness classes to cultural activities available on site.
   

• Those wanting easy access to facilities and support, including on-site healthcare, dining options, and security, allowing them to remain independent while knowing help is never far away if needed.

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What are the benefits?

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• A strong sense of community, where residents can form friendships through shared activities, interest groups, and social events, helping to maintain emotional wellbeing and reduce isolation.
   

• On-site healthcare and leisure facilities, making it easier to stay active, healthy, and supported without having to travel far for medical appointments, exercise, or recreation.
   

• A variety of property types, from apartments to bungalows, allowing you to choose a home that matches your budget, preferences, and physical needs.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Higher purchase or rental costs, plus ongoing service fees, which can be significant depending on the facilities offered and location, so it’s important to budget carefully.
   

• The lively atmosphere may not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer a quieter, more private living environment with less organised activity.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We shortlist villages that match your budget, location, and lifestyle goals — and arrange visits so you can get a true feel for each place.

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Would you enjoy a community with activities, amenities, and healthcare all in one place?

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We can arrange visits to villages that match your budget, location, and lifestyle goals.

What is Assisted Living / Extra Care Housing?

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You want to stay independent, but you’d feel more at ease knowing help is available 24/7 if needed.

In assisted living or extra care housing, you have your own apartment, but carers are on-site — ready to help with anything from personal care to meals, on a flexible plan that changes with your needs.

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Who is it for?

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• People wanting independence with backup support, who value having their own front door, personal space, and lifestyle freedom while knowing professional help is close at hand if health or mobility changes.
   

• Those with mild to moderate care needs, such as help with bathing, medication, or meal preparation, who don’t yet require full residential care but would benefit from a more supportive environment.
   

What are the benefits?

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• Your own home with the option of care when needed, giving you privacy, dignity, and independence while ensuring assistance is available without having to relocate to a care home.
   

• Social opportunities and communal facilities, such as shared lounges, dining areas, and organised activities, helping you build friendships and maintain an active social life.
   

• Flexible care arrangements that can be increased or decreased depending on your needs, ensuring the right balance of independence and support over time.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Availability can be limited, especially in popular areas or well-rated developments, so early planning and research are recommended.
   

• Service charges will apply on top of rent or purchase costs, covering building maintenance, communal facilities, and support staff, which can add significantly to monthly expenses.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We’ll help you weigh up different schemes, explain the costs clearly, and support you in making a smooth move.

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Do you want to keep your independence but know care is on hand if you need it?

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Let us help you explore assisted living schemes and guide you through the costs and care arrangements.

What is Sheltered Housing?

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You’re mostly independent but want the reassurance of an alarm system, a warden, and friendly neighbours close by.

Sheltered housing offers self-contained flats or bungalows in a community setting, where help is on hand in an emergency.

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Who is it for?

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• Older people wanting low-level support, who can manage their day-to-day life but want safety features and some reassurance in case of sudden illness or emergencies.
   

• Those seeking a safe, community environment, where neighbours look out for one another and there’s a sense of belonging without the intensity of full residential care.
   

What are the benefits?

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• More affordable than care facilities, offering a safe and supportive living environment at a lower cost while still enabling independent living.
   

• Encourages independence, allowing residents to live life at their own pace while having access to help if needed.
   

• Added security and peace of mind, with on-site wardens or emergency call systems providing reassurance for both residents and their families.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Minimal personal care included, meaning daily help such as bathing, dressing, or meal preparation will usually need to be arranged separately.
   

• Extra support may need to be organised independently, which could mean additional costs and coordination with outside agencies.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We’ll help you find sheltered housing that’s the right size, location, and set-up for you — with flexibility for your future needs.

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Would a home with added security and community support give you more confidence?

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We’ll help you find sheltered housing that meets your needs now and can adapt with you over time.

What are Residential Care Homes?

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Daily life has become too much to manage alone — but you still want a warm, homely environment.

A residential care home provides 24/7 support with meals, personal care, and activities, so you can focus on enjoying life without the worries of running a household.

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Who is it for?

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• People needing help with daily living, including personal care, dressing, medication, and mobility support, in a safe and structured setting.
   

• Those unable to live safely on their own, perhaps due to declining health, frequent falls, or loneliness, who would benefit from constant supervision and a community environment.
   

What are the benefits?

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• Full support for daily activities, including meals, laundry, cleaning, and personal care, removing the physical and mental strain of self-management.
   

• Regular social interaction and activities, from group games to outings, helping to maintain mental wellbeing and reduce feelings of isolation.
   

• No home maintenance worries, with all repairs, safety checks, and housekeeping handled by the care home staff.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Less personal independence, as routines and activities may be guided by the home’s schedule, which may require adjustment.
   

• Costs can be significant, especially for long-term stays, and may require careful financial planning or funding applications.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We visit homes, check their quality and reputation, and help you choose one that truly fits your needs and personality.

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Would 24/7 support, meals, and activities in a homely environment give you or your loved one greater comfort?

 

We can shortlist quality homes, arrange visits, and guide you through the decision-making process.

What are Nursing Homes?

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When medical needs are as important as daily care, a nursing home provides both in one place.

Registered nurses are on-site around the clock, ensuring health conditions are managed alongside personal support.

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Who is it for?

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• People with complex medical needs, such as advanced illnesses, long-term conditions, or post-surgical recovery, who require regular nursing input as well as personal care.
   

• Those needing ongoing nursing care, who may be at risk without 24-hour clinical monitoring, medication administration, and quick response to changes in their condition.
   

What are the benefits?

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• 24-hour nursing support, ensuring any health concerns are addressed immediately by qualified professionals without delays.
   

• Suitable for high-dependency residents, offering the right balance of medical oversight and day-to-day personal assistance.
   

• Medical oversight without long hospital stays, allowing care to be delivered in a homely environment rather than a clinical ward.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Highest care costs, due to the specialist skills and continuous medical staffing required.
   

• Can feel more clinical than general care homes, which may not suit those prioritising a purely homely environment.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We find nursing homes with the right medical expertise, ensure they meet your care standards, and assist with funding applications.

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Do you need regular nursing care as part of your daily routine?

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We can help you find nursing homes with the right medical expertise and assist with funding applications.

What are Specialist Care Homes?

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If you or a loved one has a specific condition such as dementia, brain injury, or severe disability, a specialist care home offers staff and environments tailored to those needs.

It’s about living somewhere that truly understands your challenges and knows how to help.

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Who is it for?

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• People requiring specialist, condition-focused support, where care teams are trained in the unique challenges, behaviours, and needs associated with specific medical or neurological conditions.

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What are the benefits?

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• Staff trained for specific conditions, meaning they understand symptoms, triggers, and best care practices, helping residents feel understood and supported.
   

• Purpose-designed environments and activities, ensuring safety, comfort, and engagement that align with the needs of the residents.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Limited availability locally, so families may need to consider locations further afield to access the right specialist expertise.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We’ll match you with specialist homes and ensure they’re prepared to meet both your care needs and personal preferences.

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Does your condition require a care environment designed specifically for your needs?

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We’ll match you with specialist homes and make sure they fully understand your medical and personal requirements.

What is Supported Living?

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You have your own home, but with tailored support visits to help with the parts of life you find challenging.

It’s a flexible arrangement — you remain independent, but with a safety net when you need it.

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Who is it for?

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• Adults with disabilities or mental health needs, who can manage much of their daily life but benefit from assistance with certain tasks, appointments, or routines.
   

• Those who can live independently with some help, such as support for budgeting, cooking, or maintaining a safe and healthy living space.
   

What are the benefits?

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• Encourages independence, letting you make choices about your daily life while still accessing the help you need.
   

• Flexible support arrangements, meaning you can increase or reduce assistance as your circumstances change.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Support is not usually 24/7, so emergency or overnight assistance may need to be arranged separately.
   

• Separate tenancy agreements may apply, meaning you’ll be responsible for rent and household bills alongside care costs.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We connect you to supported living providers, arrange the right level of help, and make sure support evolves with your needs.

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Could you manage your own home with some flexible support when you need it?

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We can connect you to supported living arrangements that give you the independence you want with the support you need.

What are Shared Lives Schemes?

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Instead of moving to a care facility, you live in the home of an approved carer — sharing family life, meals, and daily routines.

It’s a more personal, homely alternative that focuses on relationships and inclusion.

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Who is it for?

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• Adults needing a supportive home life, where a warm, family-style environment provides stability, companionship, and everyday help.
   

• Those seeking a family-style environment, valuing close relationships and shared activities over a formal care setting.
   

What are the benefits?

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• Consistent, personal support, from someone you live with and get to know well, helping you feel part of a household.
   

• Strong emotional connection, with carers who often become like extended family.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Limited spaces available, so early application and careful matching are important to secure the right arrangement.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We introduce you to local Shared Lives schemes, guide you through the process, and make sure it feels like the right fit.

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Would living in a family-style home with consistent support suit your lifestyle better than a traditional care setting?

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We’ll help you find and match with Shared Lives carers who feel like the right fit.

What is Respite / Short-Stay Care?

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Sometimes carers need a break, or you might need extra help while recovering from illness or surgery.

Respite care offers short-term support in a safe environment — giving everyone time to rest, recover, and return stronger.

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Who is it for?

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• Family carers needing time off, knowing their loved one will be in safe, professional hands while they recharge physically and emotionally.
   

• People recovering from illness or operations, who may need temporary support with personal care, meals, or rehabilitation before returning home fully.
   

What are the benefits?

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• Professional care during a break, ensuring needs are met consistently and safely in the carer’s absence.
   

• Planned or emergency cover available, so help is there when needed most, whether arranged in advance or in urgent situations.
   

What are some considerations?

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• Limited availability in busy periods, meaning early booking is essential for planned stays, especially around holidays.
   

How does My Care Direction help?

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We can arrange respite placements quickly, coordinate with your existing care arrangements, and make the transition smooth for everyone involved.

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Would a short break or recovery period help you or your carer recharge and maintain quality care?

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We can arrange respite care quickly — whether it’s planned in advance or needed in an emergency.