PROVIDERS OF DOMICILIARY CARE

Domiciliary care is provided by a number of organisations which include:

NHS
Local Authority (through Social Services)
Private care agencies
Charity and voluntary groups

There are many circumstances in which care is required but which does not involve taking up permanent residence in a care home. This may be due to reasons of choice, need or the fact that a family and friends can provide some or all of the help which is required.

Indeed, it is estimated that over 1,500,000 people spend 20 hours a week on providing informal and unpaid care to friends and relatives. This group of individuals represent the largest type of care provision in the United Kingdom. In addition to day to day problems caused by sickness and holidays, there are a whole range of issues which need to be faced in an environment of informal care.

Quite naturally, the focus of care support tends to be towards the individual in need of care. However, of equal importance are the needs of those who actually provide the care. The strain and responsibility is something which should not be under estimated and if their needs are not met, their ability to provide care is significantly undermined. Invariably, the help and support they need is relatively simple. It may be a requirement for a house sitter whilst the usual carer attends a wedding, or perhaps the facility of a weekend care package to allow for a much needed break. It may even be nothing more then a chance to talk to other people in similar situations. Fortunately, there are an enormous variety of organisations and groups available to provide help to carer and cared alike.

The problem is that it can often be difficult to find out exactly which group best suits the need, and how they can be contacted. Many of these support agencies operate on a charitable or voluntary basis and as such have limited resources to promote their work. In addition, there are a number of professional bodies and local authorities services which may be able to offer help.

	Contact details of domiciliary care providers
	Contact details for support groups
	Contact details for advisory services
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