For many, the idea of home care centres on assistance with personal care or managing medication. But for John, who lives alone and receives daily visits from Guild Care’s Home Care team, it's the small, everyday things that make the biggest difference.

“I only really need help washing my feet because of my balance problems,” he says. “But sometimes they make me a cup of tea, or if I have a repeat prescription, they drop it into the surgery for me. If I have a letter to post, they’ll take it to the post box. This morning, I took my washing out of the machine but struggled a bit to fold the sheets, so they folded them for me. They also put out my recycling and rubbish. Any little things that need doing while they're here, they’ll do for me.”

After leaving hospital following a fall, John initially received short-term support from another agency. When that ended, his carer at the time recommended Guild Care, a recommendation that became a turning point.

Peace of mind for everyone

John manages on his own but the Home Care visits fill in the gaps that would otherwise be challenging.

“My sister said at least she knows someone comes to see me once a day in case I have a problem,” John said. That daily reassurance provides peace of mind for his family and support for John to maintain independence and quality of life.

Small acts, big impact

Guild Care’s Home Care service is flexible and responsive. While personal care remains a core component, it’s equally about helping people feel secure and connected in their own homes. For John, the carers provide both practical help and companionship.

“They’re all very friendly,” he says. “I’ve had different carers over time, but I’ve got on well with all of them. It makes a difference having someone to chat to. I would recommend Home Care. I can’t fault them on anything.”

Advice for families considering home care

• Start the conversation early rather than waiting for a crisis.
• Focus on how daily help can ease everyday stress, even with small tasks like laundry or medication drop-offs.
• Ask for recommendations from friends or check out reviews on homecare.co.uk.

For a friendly chat about tailored Home Care services, ranging from companionship visits and help at home to personal care and medication support, contact Guild Care’s Home Care team on Portland Road, Worthing, at 01903 528637 or visit www.guildcare.org or Home Care service in Worthing.

Sometimes it really is the little things that make all the difference.