Hourly care means booking a care worker for as many hours as you need, when you need them. It is flexible and easy to change as needs change. We can match you with a CQC-registered agency near you.
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Hourly care
Hourly care is care booked and paid for by the hour. You might book a block of hours on certain days, a regular weekly slot, or a few extra hours at a busy time.
It is a flexible way to use visiting home care. It can cover personal care, housework, company or outings, and it can fit around what family and friends already do.
Because it is booked by the hour, it is easy to start small and add more, or reduce hours if your parent recovers or family can do more.
“Care booked by the hour, when you need it, with the flexibility to change.”
Hattie’s short versionEvery care plan is different. These are the things carers most often help with.
Is it right for you?
What usually happens once an agency gets in touch.
The agency will assess your parent and ask which days and times help is needed most. They will explain any minimum booking length and how to change hours.
They will write a care plan setting out what happens in each booked slot. Ask whether you can meet the regular carers and how they cover holidays and sickness.
Once care starts, you can review the hours with the agency as needs change. The care plan should be updated whenever the support changes.
Costs and funding
Hourly care is priced per hour, and the rate can vary with the time of day, weekends and where you live. Our cost guide explains what affects the price, and the calculator helps you estimate it. Care may be paid for from savings, by the council after a needs and financial assessment, or by the NHS in some cases.
Many agencies have a minimum visit length or weekly booking. Ask each agency what theirs is before you choose.
Often you can, but agencies need time to arrange staff. Ask how much notice they need to add or cancel hours.
They are closely linked. Hourly care is simply visiting care booked by the hour, which suits families who want flexibility.
Some agencies charge more for weekends, evenings or bank holidays. Ask each agency for their rates so you can compare.
Care workers visit at set times, from short calls to several hours a day.
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Friendly visits for company, conversation, outings and a little help at home.
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A carer steps in at home so you can take a break, rest or go away.
Find out more →Answer a few simple questions and we’ll match you with a CQC-registered agency that covers your area.
Accreditations and compliance
ICO registration ZC221613
