Does my carer require breaks?

Yes. In order to ensure that carers get sufficient rest and we meet our obligations under employment law, the carer requires a minimum 2 hours break every day when they are free to leave the home. This can be banked to provide for longer breaks on fewer days, however the minimum must be 14 hours over a 7 day week. The carer can take their breaks during normal working hours (8am to 6pm) at times to suit both of you, provided they are able to take at least 14 hours break during each week.

If it is not safe to leave the client alone, we often find that friends and family are willing to assist during these break periods. If this is not possible, please note that your fees do not include the cost of providing another carer to deliver the care to you whilst your primary carer is taking their break. If you request care during the carer’s break(s), or we reasonably believe that you require a second carer to deliver the care during any break period, you will be required to arrange additional support. Whilst we may assist you to arrange suitable cover, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to provide another carer through our hourly care service. We will discuss this with you in advance and charge the standard rate for any additional carer in attendance.