Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
How do I arrange care services?
A senior member of our team will visit you at home at a time that suits you to discuss your needs and preferences. You're welcome to have family members or friends join this conversation.
This initial consultation is completely free with no obligation to proceed. We'll take time to understand what's important to you and explain how we can help.
If you decide to go ahead, we'll provide a clear contract outlining our services and terms, plus a comprehensive information pack about how we work.
How quickly can care begin?
Once we've completed your assessment and you're happy to proceed, we can often arrange for care to start within 24-48 hours, depending on your requirements and carer availability.
Your Care Team
Will I always have the same carer?
We know how important familiar faces are. One of our senior team members will usually handle your first few visits to get to know you and your preferences. We then carefully match you with regular carers who suit your personality and needs.
While we can't guarantee the same carer every single time (due to holidays or illness), we work hard to maintain consistency with a small, familiar team of carers.
How do you ensure I'm matched with the right carer?
We take great care in matching carers to clients based on personality, interests, and care preferences. During your initial assessment, we'll discuss what's important to you - whether that's someone chatty or quiet, shared interests, or specific experience.
We believe the right match makes all the difference to your care experience. Our ongoing reviews ensure your care team continues to meet your needs, and we're always available to discuss any adjustments that might improve your service.
Quality and Training
Are your carers properly qualified?
Yes, absolutely. All our care assistants receive comprehensive training covering:
- Safe personal care and manual handling techniques
- Health and safety procedures
- Dignity and respect in care
- Specific training for specialist needs (dementia, medication, etc.)
Our carers also receive regular refresher training and ongoing supervision from senior staff. With your permission, our managers may occasionally observe visits to ensure you're receiving the highest standard of care.
How do you monitor the quality of care?
We conduct regular review phone calls and visits to check you're happy with your service. These friendly chats help us ensure everything is going well and address any concerns early. Our monthly audits also monitor the quality of care that you are receiving.
You can also contact us anytime if you have questions or feedback - we're always here to listen and make improvements.
Costs and Payment
How much does care cost?
Care costs vary depending on:
- Length and frequency of visits
- Type of care required
- Your location
- Time of the week (weekend and bank holiday rates will apply)
We'll provide you with a clear, written quote during your free assessment, with no hidden charges or surprises.
For our current rates please contact us on 01869 247779 or email admin@elitecareagency.co.uk
Can I get help with funding?
You may be entitled to financial support. Here are your options:
Local Authority Support: Contact Oxfordshire Adult Social Care on 03450507666 for an assessment, or visit www.oxfordshire.gov.uk for more information.
Direct Payments: We welcome clients who receive Direct Payments from Oxfordshire County Council.
Other Funding: We can also work with personal health budgets, insurance policies, and managed account providers.
Our team can guide you through funding options during your assessment.
How do I pay for services?
Monthly Invoicing: You'll receive a detailed invoice at the beginning of each month showing all visits provided.
Payment Methods:
- Bank transfer (preferred)
- Cheque
- Direct from managed accounts (we can invoice your management company directly)
Direct Payments: If you receive Direct Payments, we'll work with your arrangement to make payment simple and straightforward.
