As families increasingly seek alternatives to care homes, live-in care agencies has become one of the UK’s fastest-growing and most trusted care models. Live-in care allows individuals to receive personalised, 24/7 support in the comfort of their own homes — while maintaining their independence and familiar surroundings.
Whether you’re looking for support in Berkshire, Harrow, Slough, or beyond, knowing which care agencies are well-established and trusted is key to making the right decision.
Why is longevity so important in home care?
Choosing a care agency with a long history isn’t just about reputation; it’s also about proven reliability. Agencies that have been in business for decades have had the time to develop their approach, invest in training, and build a network of skilled caregivers. These care agencies have observed the evolving needs of families and adapted to provide more personalized and dignified support.
Established care agencies also tend to offer better continuity of care. With systems for regular supervision, backup caregivers, and ongoing quality checks, families can rest assured knowing their loved ones are in safe hands. These caregivers often have the experience to handle more complex health conditions, from dementia to mobility difficulties.
Furthermore, they’ve built trust over generations. Many families return to the same agency when they need care again, relying on this consistent level of service. It’s not uncommon for these agencies to care for different members of the same family over the years.
With their deep roots in the community and long history of service, these care agencies bring more than care – they bring trust, comfort, and stability.
Here are five of the UK’s longest-established and most respected live-in care agencies.
🏆 1. The Good Care Group
Founded: 2009
Headquarters: London
Overview: A CQC ‘Outstanding’-rated agency offering premium live-in care across England. Known for their high standards, dementia care expertise, and nurse-led complex care.
🏆 2. Elder
Founded: 2015
Headquarters: London
Overview: While relatively newer, Elder is one of the fastest-scaling live-in care platforms in the UK. They offer tech-enabled matching between families and carers, with national coverage.
🏆 3. Helping Hands Home Care
Founded: 1989
Headquarters: Alcester, Warwickshire
Overview: A true pioneer in live-in care, Helping Hands has over 30 years of experience and operates with one of the UK’s largest networks of regional branches.
🏆 4. Country Cousins
Founded: 1959
Headquarters: Surrey
Overview: As the UK’s oldest live-in care agency, Country Cousins is known for matching clients with experienced live-in carers who focus on companionship, palliative care, and specialist needs.
🏆 5. Trinity Homecare
Founded: 1996
Headquarters: Surrey
Overview: Trinity is CQC-rated ‘Outstanding’ and has won multiple care awards. They are known for personalised packages and exceptional training of their live-in carers.
💡 Bonus Mention: House of Caring – Emerging Trusted Name in Live-In Care Agencies
Founded: 2022
Serving: Harrow, Slough, Maidenhead, Birmingham
Overview: Though newer, House of Caring is rapidly building a reputation for its specialist live-in care services for children, adults, and the elderly, including those with Autism, ADHD, and dementia. With CQC registration, a hands-on care team, and excellent Trustpilot reviews, House of Caring is a rising star among live-in care providers in the UK.
📍 Choosing a Live-In Care Provider – What Matters Most?
When comparing live-in care agencies in the UK, here’s what to look for:
- ✔ CQC Registration & Ratings
- ✔ 24/7 Support & Emergency Cover
- ✔ Carer Background Checks (DBS)
- ✔ Personalised Care Plans
- ✔ Real Client Testimonials
📞 Ready to Arrange Live-In Care in Your Area?
House of Caring offers flexible live-in care services across Harrow, Slough, Maidenhead, and Berkshire. Our trained carers live with your loved one and provide 24/7 personalised care, companionship, and professional support.