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Live-in care that feels like family
Dedicated, one-to-one care in the comfort of your own home. Because the best place to live well is where you've always belonged.
Find the right care in minutes
Answer a few simple questions and we'll guide you to the best care solution.
Step 1 of 4
Who is the care for?
Your home. Your life. Your way.
Live-in care means a professionally trained carer moves into your home, providing personalised around-the-clock support. You keep your independence, your routines, your pets, and the life you've built — with expert help always on hand.
Unlike residential care, there are no visiting hours, no shared rooms, and no institutional schedules. Just thoughtful, one-to-one care designed entirely around the person who matters most.
From personal care and medication to cooking, companionship and keeping the home running — everything is tailored to you. It's not just care. It's continuity.
"Having a live-in carer meant our nan could remain living in her own home safely."
— Google review of Live-in Care Direct, June 2024
Most older people would rather be cared for in their own home
Surveys of older people in the UK keep reaching the same conclusion: very few want to move into a care home — close to family, friends, pets, and the memories that matter most. Live-in care makes that possible.
Discover how it worksWho is live-in care for?
Live-in care is flexible and personal — suitable for a wide range of people who want to remain safe and comfortable at home.
Older Adults
Elderly people who want to remain safe and independent at home rather than moving into a care home.
People with Dementia
Those living with Alzheimer's or other cognitive conditions who benefit from familiar surroundings and routine.
Couples
Partners who want to stay together at home — often at half the cost of two care home places.
Post-Hospital Recovery
Anyone recovering from surgery, a fall, or hospital stay who needs short-term support to get back on their feet.
Complex Conditions
People living with Parkinson's, MS, stroke recovery, or other long-term health conditions requiring specialist care.
Companionship Needs
Those who are mostly independent but experience loneliness and would benefit from company and social connection.
Live-in care in four numbers
Live-in care isn't just the compassionate choice — it's the smart one too.
a week, from
A full-time carer living in your home, with board included in the household budget rather than a room fee.
attention, all day
In a care home, staff share their time between many residents. A live-in carer is there for one person, or one couple.
care for couples
One carer can support both partners, usually costing far less than two care home places.
moves away from home
No new room, no new routine: pets, neighbours and the familiar front door all stay part of daily life.
Live-in care on NHS.uk
The NHS guide to care and support lists live-in care among the homecare options for people who need help throughout the day and night, and explains how it differs from visiting home care and care homes. It is a useful, independent starting point before you speak to any provider.
View on NHS.ukFree care consultation
Speak to a care expert today. We'll discuss your situation, explain your options, and help you understand costs and funding — all completely free.
Live-in Care Cost Calculator
Get a personalised cost estimate in under 2 minutes — no obligation.
Hourly visiting care vs. live-in care
Many families start with hourly visiting carers. But as needs grow, the costs quickly add up — often exceeding live-in care, with far less support.
Hourly Visiting Care
NHS quotes £15–£30/hour
Typical daily cost breakdown:
- Care only during scheduled visits
- Different carers each visit
- No overnight support included
- Gaps between visits with no help
- Rushed 15–30 minute appointments
Live-in Care
From £1,300/week
What you get for the price:
- 24/7 support — day and night
- One dedicated carer who knows you
- Companionship, meals & housekeeping included
- No rushing — care on your schedule
- Stay in your own home with your pets & garden
Source: NHS states homecare costs £15–£30/hour. Based on typical visiting care schedules.
Calculate Your Exact CostNeed care urgently? Call us today
Whether it's a hospital discharge, a family emergency, or a sudden change in condition — we understand that sometimes care can't wait. We will tell you honestly how quickly a suitable live-in carer can start - for urgent cases that can sometimes be the next day.
"Jason was able to find a live in carer for my mother, on her discharge from hospital, with only 24 hours notice. The carers were kind and professional and there were never any problems."
— Trustpilot review of Live-in Care Direct, October 2024
What should you expect from a live-in carer?
A live-in carer provides comprehensive, personalised support that covers every aspect of daily living. Their role is to help you maintain your independence and quality of life, while ensuring you're safe, comfortable, and well looked after at all times.
Every care plan is different because every person is different. Your carer will adapt to your routines, preferences, and the things that matter most to you. Here's what a typical live-in carer can help with:
Why families choose live-in care
Genuine companionship
More than just care — a meaningful relationship built on trust, shared interests, and daily conversation.
Peace of mind for families
Knowing someone trained and trustworthy is always there, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
No disruption to routine
Your loved one keeps their daily habits, favourite meals, and the lifestyle they've always known.
Couples can stay together
One carer can support both partners — no need to be separated as you would in a care home.
What does a live-in carer need?
Live-in carers require very little. They need a basic private bedroom in your home — it doesn't need to be large or specially furnished. A standard single or double room with a bed, wardrobe, and somewhere to keep personal belongings is ideal.
They also need access to a bathroom (this can be shared with the household) and clean sheets and towels provided on a regular basis. That's it.
Your carer will also need access to food and drink during their stay, which can either be shared from the household supplies or arranged separately. Most families find it easiest to include their carer in family meals.
Carers also need a daily two-hour break to rest and recharge. This is typically taken when the person they care for is resting or occupied. It ensures your carer is always at their best when they're looking after you.
More than just care — a premium service
Our live-in carers go beyond personal care. These lifestyle extras are included at no additional cost, helping your loved one live life to the full.
Pet Care
Walking, feeding and looking after your beloved pets
Home Cooking
Meals prepared to your tastes and dietary needs
Days Out
Trips to the shops, garden centre, or favourite café
Admin Support
Help with post, bills, and managing appointments
Shopping
Grocery runs and picking up prescriptions
Hobbies & Interests
Gardening, puzzles, crafts, and favourite pastimes
Garden Maintenance
Light gardening to keep outdoor spaces enjoyable
Staying Connected
Help with video calls, phones, and keeping in touch
Finding the perfect carer isn't luck — it's our programme
Our proprietary CareMatch Programme goes far beyond ticking boxes. We personality-match every carer to every client, because the best care happens when two people genuinely connect.
Understanding You
We start by listening — learning about your personality, daily routines, hobbies, dietary needs, and what matters most to you.
Expert Matching
Our care team handpicks carers based on experience, skills, personality, cooking preferences, and shared interests — not just availability.
Building a Bond
You'll receive a detailed carer profile before they arrive. If the match isn't right, we'll find someone better — no questions asked.
Ongoing Support
Regular reviews ensure the relationship stays strong. Your dedicated care manager is always on hand to adjust and refine the match.
Not the right fit? Tell us. We'll talk through what isn't working and look for a different carer as quickly as we can, at no extra cost.
When a live-in carer moves in, something special happens
At first, having someone new in your home might feel like a big change. But within days, most families tell us it feels completely natural. The carer learns your routines, your preferences, how you take your tea, which TV programmes you enjoy, and the little things that make your day.
Over weeks and months, a genuine bond forms. Your carer isn't just someone who helps you get dressed or makes your meals — they become a trusted companion. They share your stories, laugh at your jokes, join you for walks in the garden, and sit with you over a cup of tea in the afternoon. Many families describe their carer as "part of the family."
This deep, personal connection is what makes live-in care fundamentally different from any other type of care. In a care home, staff change shifts and attention is divided. With a live-in carer, you have one person who truly knows you — your history, your health, your moods, and your needs. That continuity leads to better care, better wellbeing, and a better quality of life.
The working pattern supports this too. Carers typically work five to six weeks on, then take one to two weeks off. This means your primary carer is there consistently long enough to build a real relationship, while the scheduled breaks ensure they stay rested and committed. A familiar relief carer covers their days off, so there's always someone your loved one recognises and trusts.
Live-in care isn't just about safety and support — it's about connection, dignity, and living a life that still feels like yours.
Who is live-in care for?
Live-in care is suitable for anyone who needs regular support but wants to remain living at home. It's most commonly chosen by older adults and their families, but it's not limited to the elderly. People of any age who are recovering from surgery, living with a long-term condition, or managing a disability can benefit from having a dedicated carer at home.
Common reasons families choose live-in care include:
- Elderly care — supporting older adults who need help with daily tasks but want to stay independent at home
- Dementia and Alzheimer's care — providing consistent, familiar care in a known environment to reduce confusion and anxiety
- Post-hospital recovery — offering short-term intensive support after surgery, a fall, or an illness
- Respite care — giving family carers a well-deserved break while a professional steps in
- Palliative and end-of-life care — enabling people to remain at home during the final stages of life, surrounded by loved ones
- Complex care — managing conditions like Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, stroke recovery, or spinal injuries
- Couples care — allowing partners to stay together in their shared home, even when one or both need support
- Companionship care — combating loneliness and isolation with a friendly, attentive presence at home
Whatever your situation, live-in care can be tailored to meet your exact needs. There's no one-size-fits-all approach — every care plan is built around the individual, their health, their preferences, and their home.
Care tailored to every need
No two people are the same, and neither is our care. We match you with a carer who has the right skills, experience and personality for your situation.
Elderly Care
Daily support with personal care, mobility, meals and companionship — enabling your loved one to stay safely at home.
Dementia & Alzheimer's
Specialist carers trained in cognitive conditions, creating calm, structured environments that reduce anxiety and confusion.
Respite Care
Flexible short-term cover from a weekend to several weeks, giving family carers a proper break with total peace of mind.
Couples Care
Keep couples together at home with one dedicated carer. Often half the cost of two care home places.
Complex & Clinical
Experienced carers for Parkinson's, MS, stroke recovery, stoma care and other complex needs, working with your medical team.
Companionship
For those who are mostly independent but benefit from company, help with outings, light meals and social connection.
Four simple steps to exceptional care
We make it straightforward. No jargon, no hard sell — just honest guidance from people who genuinely care.
Talk to us
Call us or complete our form. We'll listen carefully, explain your options and answer every question — with zero pressure or obligation.
Meet your dedicated care manager
You'll be assigned a single, named care manager — your personal point of contact who knows your family's situation inside-out and is always just a call away.
We find your perfect match
We build a bespoke care plan and hand-pick a carer matched to your needs, preferences and personality. You always have the final say.
Care starts at home
Your carer moves in on the date agreed. We stay with you every step: regular reviews, 24/7 support, and your care manager checking in throughout.
Try live-in care with no commitment
We understand that choosing live-in care is a big decision. That's why we offer a two-week introductory period so you and your loved one can experience the difference first-hand — with absolutely no long-term commitment.
During your introductory period, you'll receive the same premium service as all our clients — a dedicated care manager, a fully matched carer, a bespoke care plan, and 24/7 support. If it's not right, you can stop at any time with no fees or penalties.
Arrange your free assessmentChosen by families across the UK
Choosing someone to care for your loved one is deeply personal. Here's what sets us apart.
Live-in care vs residential care
When it comes to the things that matter most, live-in care comes out on top.
Not sure what care will cost?
Use our free calculator for an instant, personalised estimate.
Download our free live-in care guide
Everything you need to know about arranging live-in care — costs, what to expect, how to get started, and answers to the most common questions families ask.
Get Our Family Support Guide
Your essential resource for navigating care decisions and supporting elderly relatives at home. Written by our care experts with 20+ years of experience.
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What families say about us
The Live-in Care Agency is powered by Live-in Care Direct. These are reviews families have left for Live-in Care Direct on Trustpilot and Google - follow the links to read them all.
"Jason makes our lives as a family caring for my mother with Alzheimer's so easy. He creates a family for my mother by his choice of carers and we have consistency of care. He listens to our concerns and overcomes them. This agency is to be highly recommended."
"We currently have a live-in carer provided by Live-in Care Direct. She is doing a fantastic job with mum, we feel she is being very well looked after. Great communication with the carer and competitive pricing. Highly recommended."
"I can thoroughly recommend Live-in Care Direct. Jason was able to find a live in carer for my mother, on her discharge from hospital, with only 24 hours notice. The carers were kind and professional and there were never any problems."
"My wife recently suffered a stroke and after being in hospital for almost 2 months she has finally returned home. Without the help of Live-in Care Direct this would not have been possible. From my first contact, they were amazing and incredibly supportive."
"We had a wonderful carer called Elva care for my nan. She showed such kindness and compassion. The care provided was exceptional. Having a live-in carer meant our nan could remain living in her own home safely. I would definitely recommend Live-in Care Direct."
"Within 24 hours of making contact the wonderful carer moved into my parents' home. My father has advanced dementia. Within two hours of Elva arriving my mum began to relax. She has brought kindness, warmth, love and calm into the house."
"We recently booked a carer for a fortnight at short notice. My carer Sharon has been absolutely superb providing the exact level of care I needed. She is also a good cook too. They are very well organised. We made the right choice."
"Urgent live-in care needed in Devon for elderly mom having been let down by another agency. Response from Jason was compassionate and effective — live-in carer in place the next day, arranged in just 3 hours. Thank you so much."
Find specialist care for a specific condition
Select a condition below to learn how our live-in carers can provide expert, tailored support at home.
Speak to our care team today
Whether you're just starting to explore care options or need support urgently, we're here to help. Fill in the form and we'll call you back — or call us directly.
0800 368 8558
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✓ Friendly, knowledgeable advisers
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Everything you need to know about live-in care
We understand that choosing care is one of the biggest decisions a family can make. Here are answers to the questions we're asked most often.
Related pages
Understanding Live-in Care
Everything you need to know about how live-in care works.
Live-in Care vs Care Homes
An honest comparison of the two main care options.
Cost Calculator
Get an instant estimate for your care needs.
Funding Your Care
Understand NHS funding, local authority support and self-funding.
Meet Our Carers
Learn about the dedicated professionals who provide our care.
Our Care Services
Explore the full range of live-in care services we offer.
Ready to talk about care?
Get in touch for a free, no-obligation care assessment. We'll listen, advise, and help you understand your options. No pressure. Just honesty.
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