As with any relationship, communication and attention to detail are imperative, right from the beginning. As an established introduction agency which has been successfully introducing carers for over a decade, we know the importance of clear, honest communication, right from the first time we speak to a potential client or family member.
“Don’t ever change your ethos; you’ve got it absolutely right.”
Every client has individual needs and preferences, which is why every client should feel that they are getting a totally individual service. And clients, their families or representatives should feel that they can pick the phone up to us, any time.
“They have made me feel like my dad is their only client.”
Once we have understood the needs and preferences for each client, we start considering suitable carers to introduce whose experience and personality will best compliment the client’s individual needs. We ask clients to tell us what is important to them and the type of carer they would like.
Ideally, clients will have up to four carers who join a rota and return on a regular basis. An initial engagement would normally be for two weeks. However, if the first engagement goes well and everyone is in agreement, future engagements could be up to four weeks.
“Without you, my dad would not have been able to stay in his own home and be cared for so well over these last seven years.”
Having a rota of live-in carers delivers a number of benefits. It helps to avoid over reliance and familiarity between a client and carer plus the fresh pair of eyes of a returning carer is more likely to notice a change in a client’s health or needs.
All Otus registered carers are self-employed. Like anyone who has self-employed status, carers must be able to demonstrate that they work for a number of different clients. Being self-employed means carers can decide their own working patterns and the type of work they enjoy doing. And the benefit to clients is that they have a choice as to how they want to be cared for and by whom – it’s a more personal approach. Equally, our carers have the ability to choose how and when they work and at the same time, feel valued and that their preferences are being listened to. All in all, it makes for a contented and fulfilled carer which most importantly, makes for a happier client.
“It really feels good to be appreciated – it really means a lot. I am really happy to be part of a great organisation such as Otus Live-in Care.”
Our rigorous recruitment process gives us insight into the carers experience and personality so we are able to match a client’s requirements with a carer who has the right skills and attributes. Once a suitable carer has been identified and introduced, clients are provided with a written profile detailing the carer’s background, experience and personality. And we encourage clients and carers to speak with each other before deciding whether they wish to proceed.
Our aim is to ensure that clients have a team of carers who regularly return. That way, our clients have the peace of mind that they will have a rota of carers that they know well and like, returning time and time again. And our registered carers are reassured that they have a portfolio of clients and peace of mind that they have regular work.