Benefits of domiciliary care in the UK
Adult social care adds 55.7 billion per annum to the economy in England, more than the accommodation and food service industries. Having said that, even though the work force for the care sector grew by 1% in 22/23,there were still 152,000 vacant posts a day with 390,000 leaving their rolls to find new careers or different jobs in the social sector. (Skills For Care)According to Sale for Care, the vacancy rate for domiciliary Carers was 12.9%, or 71,000 posts.
COVID-19 had a major impact in the demand for domiciliary, or home carers in the UK. There are a few major factors as to why. According to a study done by YouGov, top reasons for people choosing care in their own homes include the ability to maintain relationships with family and friends, something care homes struggled with through lock downs; and safety: elderly people with increased risks of health would have required the extra care when isolating or shielding; being able to still live their lives as independently as possible. Encouraging their clients to live their lives on their terms, continuing with normal activities rather than in the routine of institutional care, where small things such as what time they would eat will be out of their control.
Domiciliary carers provide support to individuals that are living independently in their own homes, offering personalised care. Day to day tasks may include meal preparation, medication management, household tasks and companionship for those who need it.
What are some of the key benefits to being a self-employed domiciliary carer through agencies and We Pay Your Carers?
- Independence and freedom. The carer can choose their own days and hours worked. ‘Be your own boss’ could mean more control over work-life and career progression.
- Variety of work, no day is the same.
- Steady stream of clients, not likely to experience gaps where the Carer would need to seek out more work.
- Tax Benefits, especially when being paid through ‘We Pay Your Carers.’ Carers can claim expenses through our app such as travel costs, food, training and any PPE or equipment used.
- Administrative support from both the agency and the payment provider. WPYC have account handlers to provide support though telephone or email to answer any queries.
- Build genuine connections and relationships with the people cared for. Companionship is a key factor in domiciliary care.
With the need for domiciliary care in the UK only set to rise, it provides an array of opportunities to the UK economy in the future. From job creation to training and education.
