Deciding on the best care provider for your loved one is neither an easy decision nor one that can be made quickly. You will have many questions and the following list of FAQs will help. Please call us at any stage and speak directly to one of our advisors who will be able to discuss your particular situation or needs in more detail. Call 01206 263394
How can I be sure the Carer is trustworthy?
We are commissioned by Suffolk and Essex County Councils and Continuing Healthcare an NHS body who advises on help with paying for care. All staff, regardless of their role, undergo thorough background checks and vetting via the Disclosure and Baring Service, (DBS), prior to them working with Customers. There is also a dedicated Quality Assurance Lead who ensures we maintain the highest standards of care at all times, undertaking spot checks on staff and regularly speaking with care receivers to gain their feedback.
Will my loved one always see the same Carer?
We know the importance of a strong and familiar relationship between Carer and Customer and we will always do our best to achieve this for your loved one. If they require multiple or daily visits these may be undertaken by two or more carers.
What happens if my dedicated Carer is ill or away?
Our Carers work within an area team and a Senior Carer or Care Coordinator will ensure the shift is covered by someone from that team who is familiar with their needs.
I am not local. How often will you communicate with me about my family member?
The majority of our Customers have their care arranged by a family member. To reassure you we use an electronic care record system which you can have full access to. This will be set up from the start meaning you will be able to read notes and confirm that each visit has taken place as it is updated by the Carer before they leave. You can learn more here on our about page.
What if my loved ones needs change?
It is quite normal for a care plan to be updated over time and we will discuss this with you to decide on the best way forward at every stage. You remain involved and consulted at all times.
How long are visits?
We feel it important not to rush a visit as we want the Customer to feel calm, relaxed and enjoy that personal interaction. Our visits are booked in slots from 30 minutes to 1 hour upwards to overnight.
What training do Carers receive?
All employees undergo extensive training prior to starting with us. Harmonize excel at this using our sister training company harmonizetraining.com All training is updated regularly.
What is your CQC grading?
We have consistently received a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission since 2018. More details regarding Care Standards and Provision, can be found on their website: https://www.cqc.org.uk/
Are Carers insured?
Harmonize Care is fully insured and each individual Carer is covered to carry out the care services we offer. We do not sub-contract so all Carers are Harmonize employees.
Do I pay for care services in advance?
Invoices are posted or emailed out every 4 weeks in arrears, usually on the 4th Monday of the month.
Is there a waiting list?
We always advise speaking to us to check availability as soon as possible.
Can you advise me on care costs?
Determining how much you will need to pay for care costs can be quite daunting. Depending on the financial situation of the person requiring care, there may be some funding from your local council. To find out how much you may be entitled to, you will first need to contact The Social Care Team who will arrange for a financial assessment to be undertaken. This may take some time so we advise starting the process as early as possible.
If you already have funding in place, or are paying for the care privately, please call to book an initial meeting with us to discuss our services in more detail. This is completely free.
Care costs will depend on:
- The type of care required eg personal care, medical, other
- How many hours are required each day or week
- If visits are undertaken by one person or two
Our friendly team will talk you through the whole process and advise what NHS support there is. There are also a number of local community charities and associations who may be able to help with practicalities such as equipment and support groups for families and we can help put you in touch with them.
The two links below are a good starting point to see if you are claiming all the benefits you may be entitled to but we can also provide details of more local support options.
Attendance Allowance
This is a tax free benefit and is available to anyone over 65 to help with personal care.
Carers Allowance
This is a taxable benefit for anyone over 16 who acts as a carer for more than 35 hours a week.
Of course we hope that you will choose Harmonize Care as your preferred care provider, but always advise potential customers to speak with more than one company to ensure they feel confident with their choice.