What is Domiciliary Care — and How Does It Work?
Domiciliary care — also known as home care — is professional care and support provided in a person's own home to help them maintain independence and quality of life. It is the most common form of care for older adults in the UK, with nearly one million people receiving it across England.
What does it include?
Domiciliary care can include help with washing and dressing, personal hygiene, continence care, medication prompting and management, mobility support, meal preparation, light housekeeping, shopping, and companionship. It is provided through scheduled visits — from a single visit per day to several visits across the day and night — and is entirely flexible based on need.
Who provides it?
Domiciliary care is delivered by trained care workers employed by a registered home care agency. All agencies providing personal care in England must be registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Local authority-funded care is typically arranged through the council following a care needs assessment, though self-funders can approach agencies directly.
What does it cost?
In the South East London and Kent areas served by Local Care Adviser, hourly home care typically costs between £25 and £35 per hour. For someone needing two hours of support per day, this amounts to roughly £350–£490 per week. At higher levels of need, the hourly cost of domiciliary care can exceed the weekly cost of a care home — at which point residential care often becomes the more practical option.
Is it means-tested?
Yes — if arranged through the local authority, domiciliary care is subject to a financial assessment. Above £23,250 in savings, you are expected to fund it privately. Below that threshold the council may contribute. NHS Continuing Healthcare can fund home care in full if the primary need is health-related.
If your loved one would like to remain at home but needs more support, we can help you understand the options and identify the right providers. Speak to us →