Will I get the same carer?

We do our best to send the same small team of carers, because a familiar face beats a stranger every time. We will tell you straight if we ever cannot, rather than quietly sending someone you do not know. Holidays and illness happen, but we keep your regular team small and tell you when a change is coming.

How quickly can home care start?

In many cases we can begin care within 48 hours of your initial enquiry. For urgent situations, such as a hospital discharge, we will always do our best to start sooner. The first step is a conversation and a care assessment, which we can arrange at a time that suits you, including evenings and weekends.

What is the minimum visit length?

Our visits start from 15 minutes. We plan visits around the outcomes that matter to your loved one rather than a rigid clock. Some families need a short welfare check; others need longer visits for personal care and companionship. We will recommend a pattern that fits, not a one-size-fits-all minimum.

Is your team employed directly by Apex?

Yes. Our team are employed and trained by Apex through our own training academy. They are not agency contractors. That means a consistent team, enhanced annual training, and people who know your loved one and your family.

Is Apex registered with the CQC?

Yes, Apex Healthcare Services is registered with the Care Quality Commission, the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. Our registration means we are inspected and held to national standards of safety, effectiveness, compassion and responsiveness.

Which areas do you cover?

We provide home care across Reading, Wokingham, Bracknell, Newbury, Ascot and Maidenhead, plus the surrounding villages. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, please call us on 0118 391 3542 and we will let you know straight away.

Do you provide care out of hours and at weekends?

Yes. Someone is always available for emergencies, and new enquiries are welcome at any time. Our care visits are scheduled seven days a week, including evenings, weekends and overnight.

Costs & funding

Home care costs in Berkshire: a guide for families

How much does home care cost per hour, and what funding is available? A plain-English guide for families arranging care across Berkshire.

Request Care Call 0118 391 3542

8 min read

How much does home care cost per hour?

Home care in Berkshire typically costs between £20 and £30 per hour for a visiting carer, depending on the level of support needed and the time of day. Visits from 15 minutes are available, which means a short welfare check can cost from around £5 to £8, while a full hour of personal care and companionship costs the full hourly rate.

Live-in care is usually quoted as a weekly rate, typically between £1,000 and £1,600 per week for a single person. For couples, the weekly rate is often similar, which makes live-in care significantly cheaper than two care home places.

Is home care cheaper than a care home?

It depends on the level of care needed and whether you're comparing for one person or a couple. For someone needing occasional visits, home care is almost always cheaper. For someone needing round-the-clock support, the costs are closer, but for couples, live-in care at home is often significantly cheaper than two care home places.

The bigger question is often about outcomes, not just cost. Home care keeps your loved one in familiar surroundings, with consistent carers and their own routine. For many families, that's worth the same or more than the cost difference.

Who pays for home care?

Home care can be paid for privately, by the local council, or through a combination. If your loved one has savings above the council threshold (currently £23,250 in England), they'll likely need to self-fund. If savings are below the threshold, the council may contribute after a financial assessment.

Many people miss benefits they're entitled to, like Attendance Allowance (for people over 66) or Personal Independence Payment. These are not means-tested and can make a real difference to affordability. We can help you understand what might be available.

Can you get home care for free?

Free home care is rare but possible. NHS Continuing Healthcare is a fully funded package for people with complex health needs, and it's not means-tested. The council may also fully fund care for people with eligible needs and very low savings. Direct payments let you receive council funding and choose your own provider, including Apex.

The honest answer is that most families pay something towards care, but the amount varies widely. A conversation with our team and a look at your funding options is the best place to start.

Back to all guides

Questions about care costs?

Our team can talk you through costs, funding and what might be available for your family. Call us, it's free, and there's no pressure.

Request Care 0118 391 3542