You’re advised that the care agency provider visits you at home before starting the service. This will ensure that you’re happy with your choice of provider and offer you the chance to discuss your requirements and give them the opportunity to see the surroundings in which they’ll be working. If you can, arrange for a member of your family or friend to be in attendance once the provider visits. A fantastic care provider will answer any questions you may have during their trip. All agencies produce a ‘Statement of Purpose’ setting out their aims and objectives and the nature of the services they provide. Home care agency providers must have procedures in place which protect you and how you’re treated and cared for. Make a search on the following site, if you’re looking for additional information concerning care agency cheltenham.
A written record will be kept by the agency staff of the care that has been provided including any changes in your health and any accidents that have occurred. As part of the agency visit they’ll carry out risk assessments of the home as well as a manual handling assessment. This will identify how they have the ability to help move you safely. Staff will be fully trained on using equipment such as a hoist to help bear your weight safely. You will be provided with a clear indication of costs to the agency services. Many agencies charge different rates for weekdays, evenings and weekends. There’s often a greater rate on Bank Holidays. Ask if there are any extra costs that you will need to be made aware of. All prices will be written into the contract between you and the agency. You should be invoiced at regular periods for the previous months service. The maintenance agency staff will ordinarily have a timesheet which will require your signature. Always check that they have correctly the period of the visit.
It might seem simpler to sign only once a week but if you do that you could be charged the incorrect amount and it will prove hard to prove otherwise. Some agencies will have electronic monitoring where the maintenance staff’check in’ using their mobile phone or putting a pin number in your landline. There’s absolutely no charge to you when they use this system and it records the specific time the maintenance agency staff are with you. The additional advantage of the system it will highlight to the agency any missed calls by the care staff, thus reducing the possibility of you not getting a call. All agencies must have a complaints procedure in place which should be issued to you at the beginning of the service. Where possible, try to address any issues directly with the agency, as often these can be resolved swiftly with the manager of the service. If your complaint does not seem to have been resolved informally then follow the complaints procedure set out by the bureau.
