The Care Podcast

The Care Podcast

The Care Podcast is here to help you make sense of care - with honest conversations, expert advice, and real support for every stage of the care journey.   Whether you're supporting a loved one, planning ahead for yourself, or working in the care sector, this podcast offers clear, compassionate guidance to help you feel more confident and better informed.   Hosted by the team at Unique Senior Care, the podcast brings together expert voices, including health professionals, social care leaders, legal specialists, care workers, and family carers. We explore the questions people often struggle to get straight answers to, sharing real-world insight and practical takeaways to help you navigate the world of care.   Who is this for? ✓ Family carers exploring options or facing decisions ✓ People planning for later life, either for themselves or others ✓ Professionals supporting older adults and families ✓ Anyone navigating care, ageing, or long-term wellbeing   Why listen? ✓ Trusted expert insight on a wide range of care topics ✓ Real-life stories and honest, human conversations ✓ Calm, clear tone - no jargon ✓ Focused on dignity, independence and informed choice   Brought to you by Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is a CQC-regulated home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. We offer dignified, personalised support that helps people live independently at home - from companionship to complex care needs. Explore more support: 🌍 Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk 📚 Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ 📊 Care Cost Calculator: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ 💼 Carer Jobs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ 🎧 Podcast home: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/   Follow Unique Senior Care: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

  1. 4d ago

    Why Familiar Faces Matter When Needs Are Changing

    When care needs begin to change, seeing the same familiar faces can make a huge difference. In this episode of the Care Podcast, Joe Cleary is joined by Lucy, Director of People at Unique Senior Care, to talk about why continuity of care matters so much — especially for older people living with dementia, anxiety, frailty, or more complex health conditions. Lucy shares how regular Caregivers help build trust, reduce distress, notice small changes sooner, and provide reassurance during difficult periods. The conversation also explores what families should look out for if care feels inconsistent, and why speaking up is so important when arranging support for a loved one. Who this is for: ✓ Families arranging care for an older loved one ✓ People supporting someone living with dementia ✓ Anyone worried about inconsistent care visits ✓ Those exploring home care for changing or complex needs In this video we cover: ✓ Why continuity of care reduces anxiety and distress ✓ How familiar Caregivers build trust over time ✓ The impact of changing faces on people living with dementia ✓ Why consistency helps spot changes in health sooner ✓ Questions families should ask a care provider ✓ What “caregiver churn” means and why it matters About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: Care Podcast playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK/

    11 min
  2. May 22

    What Helps Someone Feel Safe with Home Care?

    Accepting help at home can feel overwhelming at first, especially for someone who values their independence and privacy. In this video, Lucy, Director of People at Unique Senior Care, explains what helps people feel safe with home care - from communication and consistency to empathy, trust and compassion.   If you’re exploring care for a loved one, this conversation offers practical reassurance about what families should look for in a home carer and how trust is built over time. Who this is for: ✓ Families exploring home care for a loved one ✓ People supporting an older parent or relative ✓ Anyone worried about introducing care at home ✓ Family carers looking for reassurance and advice In this video we cover: ✓ What helps someone feel safe with home care ✓ Why communication and consistency matter ✓ How carers build trust during early visits ✓ The importance of empathy and listening ✓ Why quality time matters more than rushing tasks ✓ What families should look for when choosing care About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: Watch more conversations and advice from the Unique Senior Care podcast series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW Further resources and support: 🌍 Website & Services Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Home care costs calculator: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

    9 min
  3. May 7

    What to Do When Care Needs Change Suddenly | Preparing for the Unexpected

    In this episode of The Care Podcast, Jo speaks with Helena Hitchcox, Director of Operations at Unique Senior Care, about how sudden changes in a loved one’s health can quickly turn into overwhelming situations for families. From hospital admissions to unexpected diagnoses, Helena explains how to prepare in advance, what practical steps can make a difference, and how having the right support in place early can make these moments easier to navigate. Who this is for: ✓ Family members supporting an ageing parent or relative ✓ People worried about “what if something happens” ✓ Those navigating hospital discharge or sudden illness ✓ Anyone wanting to plan ahead and feel more prepared In this video we cover: ✓ Common sudden changes (falls, strokes, hospital admissions) ✓ Why these situations can feel overwhelming for families ✓ How to prepare before a crisis happens ✓ The importance of power of attorney and planning ahead ✓ Support available after hospital discharge ✓ Simple home adaptations that support independence ✓ Key information to have ready in an emergency About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: 🎧 Watch more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/

    11 min
  4. Apr 30

    Why You Can’t Switch Off When Caring for a Loved One (And What Helps)

    Why You Can’t Switch Off When Caring for a Loved One (And What Helps) In this episode of The Care Podcast, Jo speaks with Helena Hitchcox, Director of Operations at Unique Senior Care, about the emotional weight that often comes with supporting a loved one. When someone you care about is struggling, it can be hard to stop worrying — even when you’re not with them. Helena shares her personal experience of supporting her mum while living miles away, and explains why so many carers feel like they have to carry everything on their own. This conversation offers practical reassurance on how to share responsibility, find the right support, and protect your own wellbeing along the way. Who this is for: ✓ Family members supporting a loved one at home ✓ People feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried ✓ Those balancing care with work or other responsibilities ✓ Anyone unsure where to turn for help as a carer In this video we cover: ✓ Why it’s so difficult to switch off when caring for someone ✓ The hidden pressures carers often carry alone ✓ How guilt and responsibility can build over time ✓ The importance of building a support network ✓ What support is available beyond family and friends ✓ How to avoid burnout and stay well yourself About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: 🎧 Watch more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

    11 min
  5. Apr 23

    When Something Feels Off: Trust Your Instincts Without Jumping to Conclusions

    In this episode of The Care Podcast, Jo speaks with Helena Hitchcox, Director of Operations at Unique Senior Care, about what to do when something doesn’t feel quite right with a loved one. Whether it’s small changes in behaviour, memory, or daily routines, Helena shares practical advice on how to trust your instincts, respond calmly, and avoid jumping to the worst conclusions. Drawing on both professional experience and her personal journey supporting her mum, Helena explains how to notice subtle changes, support independence, and approach sensitive conversations with care and dignity. Who this is for: ✓ Family members worried something has changed in a loved one ✓ People noticing subtle changes in behaviour or memory ✓ Anyone unsure whether to seek medical advice ✓ Those wanting to support someone without taking away independence In this video we cover: ✓ How to recognise when something “feels off” ✓ Subtle changes in behaviour, memory, and routines ✓ Why it’s important not to jump to conclusions too quickly ✓ How to support a loved one without taking over ✓ When it might be time to seek medical advice ✓ Possible causes of confusion (not always dementia) About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: 🎧 Watch more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/

    10 min
  6. Apr 16

    How to Cope with the Worry of Caring for an Ageing Parent | The Care Podcast

    In this episode of The Care Podcast, Jo is joined by Helena Hitchcock, Director of Operations at Unique Senior Care. With over 40 years of experience, Helena shares practical advice on managing the constant worry that can come with caring for an ageing parent or loved one. Together, they explore the emotional and practical challenges families face — from feeling overwhelmed and stretched too thin, to knowing when to seek extra support. Who this is for: ✓ Family members caring for an ageing parent ✓ Those supporting someone with dementia or memory loss ✓ Anyone feeling overwhelmed, anxious or burnt out in a caring role ✓ People exploring care options for the first time In this episode we cover: ✓ Why caring roles can feel overwhelming and how burnout develops ✓ Common worries families face, including safety and independence ✓ Practical ways to reduce risk at home without restricting freedom ✓ How technology (pendants, alerts, care lines) can offer peace of mind ✓ What the Herbert Protocol is and how it can help in emergencies ✓ Where to find local support, including day centres and community services About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: Watch more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW   Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

    12 min
  7. Apr 9

    How to Make a Loved One’s Home Safer Without Making It Feel Clinical | The Care Podcast

    In this episode of the Care Podcast by Unique Senior Care, we talk about how families can make practical safety changes in a loved one’s home without it feeling clinical or hospital-like. Our Operations Director, Helena Hitchcox, shares simple advice on balancing comfort, familiarity and safety, especially when supporting an older person who may be at risk of falls or other hazards at home. Who this is for: ✓ Family members supporting an older loved one at home ✓ People exploring safer living options for ageing relatives ✓ Carers wanting to reduce fall risks in the home ✓ Anyone supporting someone living with dementia or mobility challenges In this episode, we cover: ✓ How to assess risks around the home ✓ Practical ways to prevent falls and trips ✓ When equipment like hospital beds may be recommended ✓ How to keep a home feeling familiar and comforting ✓ Small safety adjustments that make a big difference Listen to more episodes of the Care Podcast: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/ About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider trusted by families across the UK. We specialise in personalised, dignified support — from companionship through to complex care needs — helping people live safely and independently at home. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs calculator: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Check if it's time for care: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

    12 min
  8. Mar 30

    What Makes a Great Carer? Insights from Skills for Care

    What Makes a Great Carer? Insights from Skills for Care. In this episode of the Care Podcast, brought to you by Unique Senior Care, we’re joined by Rachel Shaw and Shirley Way from Skills for Care to talk about careers in adult social care and what it takes to build a strong, compassionate care workforce. We discuss how people enter the care sector, the skills and values that make a great carer, and how organisations like Skills for Care support training, development and professional growth across the industry. Who this is for: ✓ Families wanting to understand the people behind great care ✓ Anyone considering a career in adult social care ✓ Care professionals looking to grow and develop ✓ People interested in how the care sector supports its teams In this video we cover: ✓ How Rachel and Shirley started their careers in care ✓ The role of Skills for Care in supporting the sector ✓ The qualities that make a great carer ✓ Why adult social care can be such a rewarding career ✓ Training, development and opportunities in the care sector ✓ The importance of values and compassion in care About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support Client stories playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWTQ7F68Z63ASUVB3S3UsGmM Moving & Handling Training: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT53V4ScI01V0uYdm4up58S Further resources and support Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/  https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

    47 min

About

The Care Podcast is here to help you make sense of care - with honest conversations, expert advice, and real support for every stage of the care journey.   Whether you're supporting a loved one, planning ahead for yourself, or working in the care sector, this podcast offers clear, compassionate guidance to help you feel more confident and better informed.   Hosted by the team at Unique Senior Care, the podcast brings together expert voices, including health professionals, social care leaders, legal specialists, care workers, and family carers. We explore the questions people often struggle to get straight answers to, sharing real-world insight and practical takeaways to help you navigate the world of care.   Who is this for? ✓ Family carers exploring options or facing decisions ✓ People planning for later life, either for themselves or others ✓ Professionals supporting older adults and families ✓ Anyone navigating care, ageing, or long-term wellbeing   Why listen? ✓ Trusted expert insight on a wide range of care topics ✓ Real-life stories and honest, human conversations ✓ Calm, clear tone - no jargon ✓ Focused on dignity, independence and informed choice   Brought to you by Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is a CQC-regulated home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. We offer dignified, personalised support that helps people live independently at home - from companionship to complex care needs. Explore more support: 🌍 Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk 📚 Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ 📊 Care Cost Calculator: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ 💼 Carer Jobs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ 🎧 Podcast home: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/   Follow Unique Senior Care: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK