Home Care FAQs
Got questions?
We’ve answered the most common queries about home care, live-in services, costs, and what to expect when choosing Azure Care in Medway and Kent. If you’re questions isn’t listed in the Home Care FAQs below, just give us a call and we’d be happy to answer.
1. What services do you provide?
Azure Care offers a full range of home care and live-in care services, tailored to each person’s needs. These include personal care (such as help with washing and dressing), live-in care, dementia care, palliative care, respite care for family carers, companionship, and support with medication or mobility. Whether you need a quick morning visit or 24-hour support, we’ll create a plan around your preferences and lifestyle.
2. How much does care cost and how is it charged?
Care costs depend on the type of service, how often visits are needed, and the complexity of support. After a free, no-obligation assessment, we’ll provide a clear and personalised quote. Charges may be per hour, per visit, or a flat daily rate for live-in care. We’re always transparent, and there are no hidden fees.
3. Can I get financial support for care?
Yes. Depending on your circumstances, funding may be available through:
NHS Continuing Healthcare (for those with complex medical needs)
Local authority care funding
Attendance Allowance or PIP
Private health insurance
We’ll help you understand your options and support you through the application process if needed.
4. How do you ensure staff quality and safety?
Every carer goes through a rigorous recruitment process. We check employment history, references, and complete an enhanced DBS check. New starters receive full induction training and shadowing before working independently. Ongoing training includes safeguarding, moving and handling, medication, dementia awareness, and infection control. Our team also carries out regular spot-checks and supervision visits.
5. Are you regulated and what’s your CQC rating?
Yes — Azure Care is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). We were last inspected in July 2021 and received a “Good” rating in all five key areas: Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, and Well-led. Our policies and practices are reviewed regularly to ensure we exceed regulatory standards.
6. How do you match carers to clients?
We understand how important the right match is. That’s why we pair carers and clients based on personality, language, lifestyle, values, and availability. Where possible, we ensure you have the same familiar faces each week, to build trust and consistency.
7. What happens if my regular carer can’t come?
If your usual carer is unwell or on leave, we’ll send a carefully selected replacement from our trained team. They’ll be fully briefed beforehand, and we’ll keep you informed throughout.
8. How does care planning work?
We start with a free home assessment, where we listen to your needs, routines, health conditions, and preferences. A personalised care plan is then created with you and your family. This is reviewed regularly and adjusted as your needs evolve.
9. How are visits recorded and monitored?
We use an electronic care system to track visits and tasks. Carers check in and out via a secure app and log notes about each visit — including outcomes, mood, and observations. With consent, family members can access this in real time for peace of mind.
10. What about medication support?
Carers can prompt or administer medication depending on your plan. All staff are medication-trained and undergo reassessment every six months. Records are kept digitally, ensuring accuracy and accountability.
11. How do you handle infection control and PPE?
We follow strict infection control policies, aligned with Public Health England and CQC guidance. Carers are trained in hygiene procedures and always use appropriate PPE, including gloves, aprons, and masks when required.
12. What if I have a complaint or concern?
We take all feedback seriously. You can raise concerns with your care coordinator, by phone or email. Complaints are investigated quickly and transparently, and we always share outcomes and service improvements.
13. How do you support dignity, independence, and mental capacity?
Our care is built on respect and autonomy. We support clients to make their own decisions and always ask before assisting. We follow the principles of the Mental Capacity Act (2005) and promote independence wherever possible.
14. How does Azure Care stay quality-focused?
We continually improve by conducting audits, gathering client and carer feedback, reviewing outcomes, and working with health professionals. Training is refreshed regularly, and we’re active in local care networks.
15. How do I get started?
It’s easy. Contact us by phone or email to arrange a free consultation. We’ll visit to carry out an assessment, create your personalised plan, and introduce your carer. There’s no pressure — just guidance and support when you’re ready.
If there are any questions not covered by this set of Home Care FAQs, please feel free to get in touch by phone or via the form on the right and we’d be happy to help.