Choose your carer without managing the care alone.
There are three ways to arrange live-in care. All three can work. The right one depends on how much you want to organise yourself.
Or call 0330 912 1125
Managed live-in care vs an introductory agency vs hiring a carer yourself
| Hiring a self-employed carer privately | Introductory agency | The Live-In Carer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who employs the carer? | It depends on the arrangement. Check the carer's employment status. | Usually you, or the carer is self-employed | We do |
| Regulated by CQC? | No | Introductions alone are usually outside CQC regulation | Yes (not yet rated) |
| Who manages the care? | You | You and the carer | Our care management team, with you |
| Cover when the carer is ill or on holiday | You find it | Varies. Ask how cover works | We arrange it |
| Daily breaks planned and covered | Up to you | Agreed between you and the carer | Break plan for every client |
| Checks, training and supervision | You check | Checks before introduction. Ongoing support varies | Checks, training, quality visits, 24/7 on-call |
| Carer's holiday pay and pension | Depends on the arrangement | Usually the carer's own responsibility | Paid by us |
| Price | Carer's rate + your time, cover, insurance and risk | Carer's rate + fees + extra cover | From £1,550 a week, management included. Extras are listed on our Prices page |
General comparison only. Arrangements vary by provider and by family, so always ask for the full terms in writing.
What to compare
- The total weekly cost, not just the carer's rate
- What's included
- Who arranges cover when the carer is ill or on holiday
- Who handles care plans, reviews and concerns
- Who deals with tax, insurance and employment duties
- How you change or end the arrangement
- Who you can call at night
Your true weekly cost
Put in the figures you've been quoted. We'll add them up so you can compare like with like.
An estimate using your figures. Not financial advice. Your exact price with us is confirmed in writing after a free assessment.
Get your exact weekly price
Tell us a little about who needs care and we'll call you back with an exact price.
Direct and introductory arrangements suit families who want to manage more themselves. We're for families who want to keep real choice and hand over the organising.
Questions families ask
Is a managed service more expensive?
Our prices start from £1,550 a week, with management, cover and 24/7 on-call included. Compare the total weekly cost, including the time and cover you'd otherwise arrange yourself, not just the carer's rate.
Do I still choose my carer?
Yes. We send you 2–3 matched carer profiles and you choose who feels right. If it isn't right, we change the carer at no extra cost.
Who is The Live-In Carer?
The Live-In Carer is a trading name of Bellus Care Ltd (company 07881039), registered with the Care Quality Commission (not yet rated). Every carer is employed by us.
This page gives general information to help you compare options. It isn't legal, tax or financial advice. Arrangements vary, so check the terms of any service in writing.