• 1. Accommodation:
  • Private Bedroom: A dedicated, private bedroom where the carer can rest and have personal space. It should include a comfortable bed, storage for personal belongings, adequate lighting, and heating.
  • Access to Bathroom: Access to a bathroom that may be private or shared with household members, equipped with facilities for personal hygiene, such as a shower, toilet, and sink.
• 2. Kitchen and Dining Facilities:
  • Access to kitchen facilities where the carer can prepare meals for themselves and possibly for the care recipient. This includes access to cooking utensils, appliances (such as stove, microwave, refrigerator), and storage space for food items.
  • Dining area or space where meals can be consumed comfortably.
• 3. Living Space:
  • A comfortable living area within the household where the carer can relax during their off-duty hours. This may include seating arrangements, entertainment options (like TV or books), and areas for personal relaxation.
• 4. Internet and Communication:
  • Access to internet services and communication facilities (such as phone service) to stay connected, especially important for coordinating care, contacting emergency services if needed, or communicating with family members.
• 5. Work Space:
  • Depending on the care recipient’s needs, there may be a need for a designated workspace where the carer can review care plans, documentation, and communicate with healthcare professionals or caregivers.
• 6. Storage Space:
  • Adequate storage space for caregiving supplies, personal belongings, and any equipment or tools needed for caregiving tasks.

Additional Considerations

• Safety and Accessibility: The accommodation and facilities should be safe and accessible, taking into account any mobility needs or safety concerns of the carer or the care recipient.
• Privacy and Boundaries: Clear boundaries should be established regarding the carer’s private space and their professional role within the household.
• Health and Safety Standards: Ensuring that the facilities meet health and safety standards is crucial for both the carer’s well-being and the care recipient’s comfort.

Employer Responsibilities

• Providing Suitable Accommodation: Employers or care recipients hiring live-in carers have a responsibility to ensure that the accommodation provided meets basic living standards and is suitable for the carer’s needs.
• Agreement on Terms: The terms of accommodation should be clearly outlined in the employment contract or agreement, including any provisions for utilities, internet access, and shared facilities.

Conclusion

Providing appropriate facilities for a live-in carer is essential to support their ability to deliver effective care while maintaining their own comfort and well-being. Clear communication and agreement on accommodation arrangements help ensure a positive living and working relationship between the carer and the household.