Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
What is an Introductory Care Agency.
An introductory care agency connects clients with trusted, self‑employed carers. We introduce carefully vetted carers who match your needs, so you can choose the person who feels right for you (like a recruitment agency).
What does Sunridge Introductory Care Agency do?
We help clients find trusted, self‑employed carers who can support them at home. We take time to understand each client’s needs, carefully vet suitable carers, and introduce individuals who are a strong match. Once the introduction is made, the client and carer work together directly, while Sunridge remains on hand for guidance or help finding a replacement carer when needed.
How long can a carer stay for?
Our self‑employed carers are flexible and happy to work in a way that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for ongoing live‑in support or short‑term help after an illness or operation, the choice is entirely yours. For long‑term arrangements, we can organise a rotational pattern, where carers stay for six to eight weeks at a time and return after their break. This ensures continuity and familiarity. For shorter bookings, the minimum stay is one week.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers Continued
What do I need to provide for the carer?
You would need to provide a live‑in carer with a private bedroom, access to a bathroom, and a few essentials such as bedding, towels, a wardrobe, chest of drawers, a chair, and WiFi. All PPE, including gloves, aprons and any other protective items, is to be provided by you. Food is supplied by you, and prepared by carers.
Will my Carer need time off?
Yes a live‑in carer is entitled to 2–2.5 hours off each afternoon to rest or leave the premises. For longer placements, they should also receive 48 hours of paid leave - this is negotiated between the carer and yourself
Will the carer be able to drive?
Most of the self-employed carers who are registered with Sunridge Carers, do have a driving licence and will happily drive your car. This may be necessary if you need support with shopping, collecting prescriptions from the chemist and driving you to appointments. Some of the carers will have a UK driving licence, however this cannot be guaranteed as they may have a licence from their home country. It will be your responsibility to ensure you have adequate car insurance.
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What are the carer’s daily working hours?
A live‑in carer is present day and night. However, their hours aren’t formally measured. In practice, most live‑in carers provide around ten hours of active support each day along with a minimum 2 hour uninterrupted break to rest and recharge.
What if I need support at night?
If you need support during the night, your live‑in carer can be woken up, twice per night. Each night‑time call carries an additional charge. If you require additional overnight assistance, please contact our team and we can introduce you to a dedicated overnight carer who can provide the level of support you need.
Can carers walk dogs?
It’s not usually recommended for live‑in carers to walk dogs, as it may interfere with the client’s care. However, this can be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. It is entirely up to the carer whether they agree to it or not. If they do, they may charge a small additional fee for this service.