Frequently Asked Questions These are generic answers as all care is based around your particular needs and requirements and the answers in your case may vary. We are very happy to discuss questions and concerns at your assessment.
Why choose 1st for Care?
We offer a bespoke, personal service to suit you. We provide fully trained, security checked, experienced Personal Assistants (PA's).
1st for Care is nurse led so we have expertise and knowledge in many and varied areas of care. The Management team are qualified healthcare professionals, always available and approachable.
What makes 1st for Care different?
With 1st for Care you have regular PA's so you never have to worry about having strangers in your house. Your time will be spent on living, not managing your care.
Do you do small visits?
We believe good, quality care and support is achieved with time and consideration for your needs and therefore our visits are a minimum of 2 hours.
You can choose your allocated day and time. Our PA's won't be rushing off to their next client as your PA will be allocated or specifically employed just for you.
What is the process of getting care from you?
We make the process easy and hassle free. You can call us on our office number 01524 380294 or 07456 780957 and speak to our Care Services Manager who can answer all your questions and queries. Alternatively, you can fill in our online Enquiry Form. From there, the CSM will set up a meeting with you and your family and you can tell us what you want and how we can fit into your life. Once we have agreed the service, we can introduce potential PA's.
How long does it take to set up a package?
Usually we can introduce a PA to you within a few days, provided that we have PA's available. We need to ensure that your PA or team are trained and knowledgeable about you, ensuring they deliver the best possible care.
If we need to employ a larger team of PA's this may take from 2 to 6 weeks however we may be able to provide some care up until a full team is appointed for you.
What happens if I go into hospital?
This will depend on your particular needs and your source of funding. Your PA can attend hospital to support you if the hospital agrees. They are likely to be concerned for you and want to visit. This will be discussed with you at assessment and be part of your service agreement.
I don't have a car, can PA's take me out in their car?
Yes, PA's are able use their car to take you out. They will be fully insured. You will be charged per mile which will be itemised on your monthly invoice.
I don't want to go into a nursing home, can I be nursed at home?
Yes, we can provide as many or as few hours to fit around you and your family. This could be round the clock support or just a few hours here and there. You or your family may require regular respite which can often prevent a nursing home admission.
Can you provide a companion for a holiday?
Yes, it could be a one off or one or more of your regular PA's could accompany you.
Can I be involved in choosing my PAs?
We encourage you to be fully involved in not only choosing PA's but in all aspects of your care.
What if I don't get on with my PA?
No problem, we will introduce another one to you.
Who are you regulated by?
We are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and inspected regularly. Click on the CQC logo to be directed to our latest report.
Financial
How much will it cost?
Support/Care package costs are specific to each client. The Care Services Manager will be able to discuss this with you at your initial assessment.
How do I finance my care?
Care can be expensive and everyone needs to know that finance will be in place when they need it.
Unlike the NHS we are not government financed and therefore your care will need to be funded in one of 3 ways.
Funding options
CHC - Continuing Healthcare is for nursing care and funded by the NHS. This should be free at the point of need, however there is an assessment process to go through. We can help support you through this. You have the right to receive this care at the place of your choosing. Social Services - This is for social care/support and an assessment of your finances will be necessary. This funding can be given as direct payments/personal budget and you can choose what care/support to spend it on. Private - You fund your own care yourself, from a number of sources. This way you can choose exactly what you want and is obviously not based on need. We do not offer financial advice however we can give you insight into how care may be funded and where to go to get more help/advice. Call 01524 380294 .
What's the difference between health and social care? How do I know which care I need?
It is important that we differentiate between health care and social care as it affects the way you are funded. This is not always as clear as you may think. Taking medication or help with managing a catheter for example is not health care, but social care.
To be sure which sort of care you will need, an assessment will be necessary. Should you need help or advice with a Continuing Healthcare or a Social Services assessment, we can advise you and even attend the assessment meeting with you if needed.
It may be that you have either private funding or are having your care paid for by insurance of some kind. This means you have the widest choice. Here again, we can work with you to form a bespoke package of support to meet your needs.
You may find these websites helpful.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/money-work-and-benefits/nhs-continuing-healthcare/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/money-work-and-benefits/when-the-council-might-pay-for-your-care/
https://www.which.co.uk/elderly-care/financing-care
