A simple guide
How to arrange home care with Smartlinks
If you have never arranged care before, it can feel like a lot to take in. The good news is that it does not have to be complicated. This guide explains how to arrange home care with us, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.
Five simple steps to starting care
Step 1
Talk to us
Call us on 01322 586755 or send a short enquiry. We will listen, answer your questions and get a sense of what support would help. We will ask who needs care, where they live, what kind of help they need and when it might start.
- What happens
- A friendly conversation.
Step 2
Your care assessment at home
A member of our team visits you at home to understand your needs in more detail. We talk about your daily routines, your health, your home and what matters most to you. We also check that you can be supported safely at home and talk through anything that might help, such as equipment or adaptations.
- What happens
- A relaxed visit at a time that suits you. Family members are welcome.
Step 3
Your personalised care plan
Together, we write a care plan that sets out the support you will receive, the times of your visits, your preferences and anything your carers need to know. You will see it and agree it before care starts.
- What happens
- You approve the plan and your schedule.
Step 4
Meeting your carers and starting care
We match you with carers who suit your needs and personality. On the agreed date, your care begins.
- What happens
- Your first visits, with a check-in call from our office soon after.
Step 5
Ongoing reviews
Needs change over time, so we review your care regularly and whenever you ask. If something is not working, tell us and we will put it right.
- What happens
- Regular reviews and easy changes to your plan.
Arranging care for a parent or relative
Many of the families we support first contact us on behalf of a mum, dad or other relative. You are very welcome to make the first call and take part in the assessment. A few things can help:
- Keep them at the centre: Talk to your relative about their wishes before and during the process. Their choices come first.
- Consent matters: We will always ask the person receiving care for their consent, where they are able to give it.
- Lasting Power of Attorney: If your relative has a Lasting Power of Attorney for health and welfare, let us know and we will work with you on that basis.
- Staying informed: With your relative's permission, we can keep you updated, even if you live outside the area.
What to have ready before your assessment
You do not need everything on this list, but these details help us plan the right care:
What to have ready before your assessment
- GP name and surgery details
- A list of current medicines
- Key contacts, including family and next of kin
- Any recent hospital discharge information
- Any council or social care assessment you already have
- Notes on daily routines, likes and dislikes
- Details of any equipment already in the home
Need care to start quickly?
Sometimes care is needed at short notice, for example after a fall or a hospital stay. Call us on 01322 586755 and we will do our best to help. We will always be honest about how quickly we can start in your area.
Questions about arranging care
It depends on your needs and our availability in your area. Once we have spoken and completed your assessment, we will agree a start date with you.
Yes. Family members are welcome, as long as your relative is happy for you to be there.
Yes. Tell us if anything needs to change and we will review your plan with you.
Please let us know. We want you to feel comfortable, and we will do our best to find a better match.
Ready to take the first step?
Talk to our friendly team today. We will listen, answer your questions and help you decide what is right for you or your loved one.