Typical Working Hours

• 1. 24-Hour Availability:
  • Live-in carers are generally expected to be available around the clock to provide care and assistance as needed.
  • This includes overnight shifts where the carer remains on-site to respond to any emergencies or provide assistance during the night.
• 2. Scheduled Duties:
  • While live-in carers may be required to be available 24/7, their actual working hours for active caregiving tasks (such as personal care, medication administration, and household assistance) typically follow a scheduled routine.
  • This routine may include set times for meal preparation, assistance with daily activities, and other specific tasks outlined in the care plan.
• 3. Rest Breaks and Off-Duty Time:
  • Despite being on-site, live-in carers are entitled to rest breaks and off-duty time for personal relaxation and sleep.
  • It’s important for employers to establish clear schedules and boundaries to ensure that carers have adequate time for rest and personal activities.

Flexibility and Nature of Work

• Flexibility: The nature of live-in care often requires flexibility in scheduling to accommodate the care recipient’s needs, which can include adjustments to the daily routine or additional hours during emergencies or periods of increased assistance.
• On-Call vs. Active Duty: While carers may be on-call throughout their shift, active duty hours typically involve specific tasks and responsibilities as outlined in the care plan.

Legal and Contractual Considerations

• Employment Contracts: The specific working hours and conditions should be clearly defined in the employment contract or agreement between the carer and the employer.
• Overtime and Compensation: Depending on local labor laws and the terms of the contract, live-in carers may be entitled to overtime pay or additional compensation for hours worked beyond a certain threshold.

Employer Responsibilities

• Supporting Work-Life Balance: Employers should strive to support a healthy work-life balance for live-in carers by respecting agreed-upon rest periods and off-duty time.
• Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular monitoring of working hours and tasks ensures that the care plan remains effective and that the carer’s workload is manageable.

Conclusion

Live-in carers are expected to be available for care and assistance as needed, which typically involves being on-site 24/7. However, specific working hours for active caregiving tasks should be outlined in the employment contract, with consideration for rest breaks and off-duty time to maintain the carer’s well-being. Effective communication and adherence to agreed-upon schedules help foster a positive and supportive caregiving environment for both the carer and the care recipient.