Home care in the UK explained
Home care — sometimes called domiciliary care — brings trained carers into your relative's home for short visits each day. It's the most common starting point for families who want to maintain independence and routine, and is suitable for low to moderate care needs.
What home care includes
A typical home care visit lasts 30 minutes to an hour and may include personal care (washing, dressing, toileting), help with medication, light meal preparation, and companionship. More complex tasks — like bowel care or PEG feeding — are possible but require an agency with the right training.
How much home care costs in the UK
In 2025–26, home care typically costs £25–£35 per hour, with London and the South East at the top of that range. A daily morning visit (1 hour, 7 days a week) works out at roughly £175–£245 per week. Overnight sitting and waking nights are charged separately.
Who pays for home care?
Funding depends on a financial assessment by your local council. If your relative has assets below the means-test threshold, the council may pay all or part of the cost. Above the threshold, you'll self-fund. Read our local authority assessment guide for what to expect.
Choosing a home care agency
- Check the agency's latest CQC inspection rating (Good or Outstanding ideally).
- Ask whether you'll have a small, consistent team of carers — not a different person every visit.
- Confirm minimum visit length and weekend/bank holiday rates upfront.
- Get the contract in writing, including notice periods.