YOUR HOME. THEIR WORKPLACE.

Cecily Lalloo

Often, as a result of a life changing event, many people unwittingly become employers of care staff in their homes. A loved one had an accident or incident that results in a brain injury or trauma, spinal injury or multiple complex disabilities that changes their life - as well as all those around them; their families, their friends, even their work colleagues. Caregivers, support workers, rehabilitation assistants are employed to provide complex care for them, sometimes on a 24/7 basis. These people could be friends or relatives, or professional caregivers. Families or individuals are placed in a position of being an employer and meeting their legal obligations to their employees. Not meeting these obligations can mean costly claims to an employment tribunal. With over 20 years' experience complying with employment law, HR specialist, author of Employing Care Staff in Your Home, and advocate for people who employ care staff in their homes, working with case managers and deputies appointed by the Court of Protection, Cecily Lalloo is host of 'YOUR HOME. THEIR WORKPLACE.' In these episodes, Cecily shares tips and information with people who employ care staff in their homes so that they get to know what they don't know about employing people. Profile linkedin linkedin.com/in/cecilylalloo Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/employing-people-in-your-home-7062524266134548480

  1. YOUR HOME, THEIR WORKPLACE - Season 3, Episode 1 with Daniele Paige, Moving and Handling Practitioner and Trainer

    JAN 31

    YOUR HOME, THEIR WORKPLACE - Season 3, Episode 1 with Daniele Paige, Moving and Handling Practitioner and Trainer

    In this episode, Cecily is joined by Dani, a specialist moving and handling practitioner, for an in-depth conversation on what moving and handling really involves — far beyond basic transfers. They explore the importance of comprehensive moving and handling assessments, why this work must be fully integrated into multidisciplinary team (MDT) care, and how collaboration between OTs, physios, carers, and specialists is essential for safety and dignity. The discussion dives into real-world challenges such as planning holidays for people with complex needs, including air travel, specialist equipment, and emergency evacuation plans. Dani shares practical insights into staff training, competency assessments, and why consistent education across all shifts is critical. A key part of the conversation focuses on adult intimacy and sex support in care settings — why avoiding the topic creates risk, how clear intimacy support plans protect both clients and carers, and the need for open, professional communication around boundaries, consent, and cultural sensitivities. The episode highlights the value of proper qualifications, honest scope-of-practice conversations, and tailored training plans to ensure safe, respectful, and holistic care. To Contact Dani : Visit her email dani@supportiveaction.com or find her on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniele-paige Contact Cecily, buy her book, subscribe to her newsletter and listen to her podcast at cecilylalloo.com.

    40 min
  2. YOUR HOME, THEIR WORKPLACE - Season 2, Episode 8 - Occupational Health with Debbie Holder

    11/30/2025

    YOUR HOME, THEIR WORKPLACE - Season 2, Episode 8 - Occupational Health with Debbie Holder

    In this episode, Cecily speaks with Debbie Holder, an occupational health expert with over 30 years of experience. They break down what occupational health is, how it differs from occupational therapy, and why it's essential for anyone employing care staff at home. Debbie explains how Occupational Health supports both employers and employees, especially when health issues, sickness absence, or performance changes arise.   In this episode of YOUR HOME. THEIR WORKPLACE learn about  How occupational health supports situations like long-term sickness, repeated absence, stress, safety concerns, and changes in performance How Occupational Health assesses the progression of health conditions and recommends realistic adjustments to keep someone working How Occupational Health works alongside GPs and can highlight when treatment may need review How Occupational Health distinguishes between medical fitness issues and capability issues What information makes a strong referral — including employer observations, existing adjustments, sickness records, fit notes, and the physical/mental demands of the role   Occupational health offers reassurance, practical guidance, and fair assessment to ensure safe, appropriate support for both employer and employee. Listen in for: practical guidance, real -life examples, and clear explanations that help employers confidently navigate occupational health decisions.    To Contact Debbie : Visit her website www.ohsltd.co.uk or reach her at 07742 245450 Contact Cecily, buy her book, subscribe to her newsletter and listen to her podcast at cecilylalloo.com.

    49 min
  3. YOUR HOME, THEIR WORKPLACE - Season 2, Episode 7 - Talking about Live-in Care with Janet Shreeve

    10/31/2025

    YOUR HOME, THEIR WORKPLACE - Season 2, Episode 7 - Talking about Live-in Care with Janet Shreeve

    In this episode, host Cecily Lalloo sits down with Janet Shreeve, Director of Shreeve Care Services, to explore the realities, challenges, and rewards of live-in care — a personalised alternative to care homes that helps people remain in the comfort of their own homes. In this episode of YOUR HOME. THEIR WORKPLACE learn about  What live-in care means and how it differs from traditional care models. The benefits of staying at home for both clients and families. Overcoming common misconceptions and resistance around having a carer live in. How clients are matched with carers — and why compatibility and companionship matter. The process from initial consultation to setting up care with trusted partners. Managing breaks, shifts, and maintaining healthy work-life balance for carers. Why awareness and advocacy are key to making live-in care a recognised, accessible option. Live-in care is not just about support — it's about choice, comfort, and connection. Janet emphasises that the heart of good care lies in trust, respect, and understanding each person's individuality. Listen in for practical insights, warm storytelling, and a behind-the-scenes look at how live-in care truly transforms lives.   You can Contact Janet at : Visit her website shreevecareservices.co.uk Or reach her at janet.shreeve@shreevecareservices.co.uk / 07827 324 590 Contact Cecily, buy her book, subscribe to her newsletter and listen to her podcast at cecilylalloo.com.

    35 min
  4. YOUR HOME. THEIR WORKPLACE. - Season 2, Episode 3 - With Guest Elizabeth Nightingale on Music as Therapy

    06/30/2025

    YOUR HOME. THEIR WORKPLACE. - Season 2, Episode 3 - With Guest Elizabeth Nightingale on Music as Therapy

    S2 Ep 3 with guest Elizabeth Nightingale on Music as Therapy   Elizabeth Nightingale is a Qualified Music Therapist & Registered Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow specialising in brain injury, working as a practitioner in Level 1 rehabilitation and in the community with case managed individuals.   For over ten years she has worked with children and adults in NHS, private and community settings, using carefully selected music-based techniques to leverage neuroplasticity and support goals ranging from improved speech to enhanced motor function.   In her sessions, Elizabeth provides most of the specialised instruments herself, then develops home programs using video and audio recordings or suggests affordable instruments and apps for families to use between her visits. She trains siblings and care staff in simple, motivating activities - such as taking turns with a switch or rhythmic movement exercise - building their confidence through joint practice and feedback from her, so the family and carers can continue the work independently.   Typically seeing her case managed clients once a week, Elizabeth tailors at-home practice to each family's schedule, the client's  energy levels, and resources. She emphasises that beyond functional gains, music therapy brings emotional and social rewards - laughter, connection, and shared joy - reminding us that "if you want to give someone the best opportunity to respond and engage, try using music."   Listen to Elizabeth chat with me, discuss some case studies and how best she supports her clients.   Elizabeth will be pleased to hear from you if you contact her at her email address elizabeth@nightingalenmt.co.uk or through her website Nightingalenmt.co.uk .   Find Cecily on LinkedIn, buy her book, and subscribe to her podcast at  cecilylalloo.com

    33 min

About

Often, as a result of a life changing event, many people unwittingly become employers of care staff in their homes. A loved one had an accident or incident that results in a brain injury or trauma, spinal injury or multiple complex disabilities that changes their life - as well as all those around them; their families, their friends, even their work colleagues. Caregivers, support workers, rehabilitation assistants are employed to provide complex care for them, sometimes on a 24/7 basis. These people could be friends or relatives, or professional caregivers. Families or individuals are placed in a position of being an employer and meeting their legal obligations to their employees. Not meeting these obligations can mean costly claims to an employment tribunal. With over 20 years' experience complying with employment law, HR specialist, author of Employing Care Staff in Your Home, and advocate for people who employ care staff in their homes, working with case managers and deputies appointed by the Court of Protection, Cecily Lalloo is host of 'YOUR HOME. THEIR WORKPLACE.' In these episodes, Cecily shares tips and information with people who employ care staff in their homes so that they get to know what they don't know about employing people. Profile linkedin linkedin.com/in/cecilylalloo Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/employing-people-in-your-home-7062524266134548480