Will I have to sign a contract for my home care? What am I agreeing to?
Before you start a package of home care, you (or your nominated representative) will be asked to sign our Contract of Care. This is a document which sets out the terms and conditions relating to your care package, explains what you can expect from the care that we will provide, and includes certain legal clauses that you will want to be aware of.
You will be provided with this in advance, so that you have plenty of time to read through the contract and familiarise yourself with its contents.
What is a home care contact?
A home care contract is an agreement between the care provider and care recipient, which sets out the terms under which home care services will be provided.
Your contract will of course be specific to your own particular circumstances, however if you have any questions about the paperwork surrounding your own stay, please contact us and we will be happy to help.
What should a care home contract cover?
A home care contract should cover everything you need to know about the provision of care in your own home. This includes a customer information pack, terms and conditions, a fees schedule, and a copy of your electronic support plan. It will also reference how your care and support needs will be frequently reviewed to ensure that the home care you receive continues to meet your individual needs.
Why are home contracts important?
Home care contracts provide a legal agreement for the home care you receive, and is a contract between the care provider and yourself (or your nominated representative). Home care contracts set out the rights and responsibilities of both parties, so that expectations are completely clear. They also include details of the terms under which the contract may be changed or cancelled by either party.
Should I seek legal advice before signing a home care contract?
It is advisable to read all of the documentation carefully before signing your home care contract. You may also wish to obtain the advice of a close relative, friend or legal advisor before signing, for your own peace of mind.
Who is the contract between? Who signs a care home contract?
A home care contract is a legal agreement between the care provider and the customer. It will be signed by the care recipient (or their nominated representative), and a representative of the care provider delivering the requested home care.
Who should I ask, if I have questions about my home care contract?
The first port of call for any questions about your home care contract is the care provider – they will be able to clarify exactly what your package of home care includes, and answer any questions about how you will be supported in your own home.
As the home care contract is a legal document, some of the necessary terminology included may not be familiar to you, so it always wise to ask if there is anything which you are unsure about.
Our knowledgeable Enquiries Team are on hand to guide you through the process of arranging home care which suits your individual needs. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions, and they will be happy to assist.
The perfect home care solution
If you are looking for care for yourself or a loved one, our community care teams across Somerset and the wider South West are here to help. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to speak to someone about care options that meet your needs, our Enquiries Team will be more than happy to help.
