Frequently asked questions

What is an introductory agency?

As an introductory agency we will interview any potential carers on your behalf and carry out any relevant checks such as DBS, right to work in the UK and professional references. We also ensure they have completed any training that is required. Our carers then work on a self-employed basis and handle all their own tax. As an introductory agency we do not direct the care, giving the client the freedom to direct care as they wish.

What needs to be provided for the live-in carer?

A live-in carer would need to have their own bedroom with space to store their belongings. The carers would also need to be provided with food, often they will eat the same food as the client cooking a little extra and join them at mealtimes, unless the client prefers to eat alone.

How long do your live-in carers stay?

We are able to accommodate any length of time you may require a carer. Many of our home carers will work on a 2 - 6 weeks rotation so if someone is required on a long term basis we will endeavour to get a rota of regular carers who will work in this pattern. Due to the recent Covid-19 pandemic however, we are also offering assignments of 12 weeks where available to limit contact with multiple individuals.

What visiting care options do you provide?

At Country Cousins we do not currently provide a visiting care service, however our sister agency is able to provide visiting care in London. ​ Visit our ' Patricia White's' for more information

Will my live-in carer get up overnight?

Live-in carers are in the house overnight should there be an emergency. Occasionally when someone is unwell they may need extra attention at night. Our carers are happy to help in these situations but may request some extra time off during the day to get some sleep. There is an extra charge for the carer if they are called overnight of £11 per call. The carer should not be getting up more than twice a night. If the client gets up regularly overnight then extra night care may need to be organised as a live-in carer will not be able to sustain the level of care required if they are not getting enough sleep.

Do you cover nights?

We are able to provide live-in carers who will provide night support specifically. They would need the same accommodation as a day time live-in carer and should be able to sleep during the day without being disturbed. They will then be awake with the client all night to provide them with the care that they need.

Do your carers drive?

Many of our carers hold a valid UK drivers licence and would be able to drive the clients’ car if appropriate car insurance is arranged. We are unable to guarantee a car driver but will always do our best to provide this if it has been requested. ​ The majority of our carers do not however have access to their own cars.

Can I contact you out of office hours?

We do operate an on call service at weekends. If there is an emergency outside of our regular office hours (Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 18:00) then you can call the office number and you will be provided with a mobile number. This will be answered by one of the office team, between the hours of 8am and 6pm on Saturdays and Sundays, who will be happy to help in any way they can.

What locations do you cover?

Our live-in home carers are happy to travel anywhere in the UK. Depending on their visa status many of them are also happy to travel outside of the UK to accompany clients on trips if this is desired.

How do I register with Country Cousins?

As our carers work independently within a client’s own home, it is essential that we complete a robust selection process. ​ This includes a face-to-face interview, Induction process, reference checks and a DBS and or PVG (Criminal records checks). ​ To be shortlisted for interview you will need to meet the following criteria in full: ​

• Proof of Eligibility to work in the UK.

What assignments are available?

We offer live-in care assignments across the UK. You will live in the client’s home and be on hand to help provide care, cook for them and undertake household tasks. Assignments are typically 2 - 6 weeks’ long. During the Covid-19 pandemic however we are also asking our carers to consider placements of up to 12 weeks in order to safeguard our client's against exposure to multiple individuals.

What are the pay rates?

From 10th August 2020 our recommended daily rates range between £93 - £128 per day, meaning you can earn up to £3,900 (before tax) in a single month. ​ You can also claim travel expenses and will get accommodation and most food covered for by your clients. ​ Bank Holiday pay rates are double the standard rates.

What else is paid for?

Travel allowance – This should always be agreed in advance of the assignment. You can charge for travel on arrival and departure. ​ Client meals – Carers are there to prepare meals for the client(s) they are looking after; should additional family members, or guests, wish to have food prepared then this needs to be agreed in advance. ​ Work and rest time – Though live-in care is unmeasured work, daily average hours should be a maximum of 10 hours care, plus a 2-hour break at a time suitable to the Client. Should care be required during this period additional support should be arranged. ​ Waking fee - If you are woken during the night by the client and are providing day services only, you can charge a “waking fee”. This charge is set at £11 for a single call and raises to a maximum of £22 should several calls occur. Multiple awakenings need to be flagged to the Country Cousins team. You will be responsible for invoicing clients directly each week for any expenses incurred. ​

Who can apply?

If you meet the following criteria, we would love to hear from you: ​

• Do you have the right to work in the UK?

Do I need experience?

Yes – you need to have a minimum of 6 months’ experience in a regulated care environment and evidence of professional development including any training certificates.

Do you sponsor carers from overseas?

No, we are unable to sponsor applicants or assist those needed to obtain a work visa. Only those with a British/EU Passport or a British Ancestry Visa may apply to become a carer with Country Cousins.

Can I apply if I am living overseas?

Yes, providing that you have the following: ​

• Proof of your right to work in the UK.

What documents will I need to register?

Once you have been interviewed and are accepted to register with us, to become compliant you will need to provide: ​

• Proof of your right to work in the UK.