Better Care at Home West

18 North Square, Dorchester DT1 1HY
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Top 20 award
10 66 Reviews
  • Better Care at Home West, Dorchester
Better Care at Home West Limited are rated 'Outstanding' by the Care Quality Commission (January 2018, reviewed April 2023).

They are a small family run care provider, looking after people in their own homes in and around West Dorset: Dorchester, Broadmayne, Bere Regis, Crossways, Wool, Weymouth and the surrounding areas. They are clinically led by a registered paramedic and their staff are sourced from the local community and trained beyond industry standard to take basic observations and ensure that clients receive top quality care at all times. Better Care at Home West Limited also offers a falls service for clients, including clinical assessment, referral if necessary and assisting uninjured people back on to their feet using a Raizer lifting chair.

Better Care at Home West Limited provides top quality, person-centred support and a genuine caring approach. Every care plan is tailored to a client's specific needs and wishes.

Better Care at Home West Limited are committed to keeping people at home wherever possible and prevent unnecessary hospital admissions. The team has developed strong links and excellent lines of communication with local GP's, district nurses and other healthcare professionals.
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Care Provided by Better Care at Home West

Types of Home Care

  • Visiting Care

Contract Durations

  • Ongoing / Long Term
  • Respite / Short Term

Age Ranges

  • Older Person Care (65+)

Personal Care Services

  • Washing & Dressing
  • Medication Assistance (Oral)
  • Companionship

Household Services

  • Food Preparation & Serving
  • Shopping Service / Errands

Other Care Provided

  • Dementia
  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment
  • Hospital Discharge

Funding & Fees

  • Hourly Visiting Care Fees: from £32

We do not charge additional mileage.


Bank holidays and public holidays are charged at double the above rate.

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Better Care at Home West to find out the exact price for your requirements.

Funding Types Accepted

  • Private Funding (Self-funded)
Explain these funding types

Good to Know

Person in charge

  • Rowan Jackson (Registered Manager)

Better Care at Home West Reviews (66)

10

Better Care at Home West has a Review Score of 10 (10.000) out of 10, based on 16 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Better Care at Home West has 66 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
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Reviewer Connection to Better Care at Home West
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Total of 66, showing 21-40
Review from Stephanie E (Daughter of Client) published on 5 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very helpful and always available to talk to. It’s great to know that there is always someone to advise and support you. You can always access the care notes and keep up to date with things that are happening.
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Review from Kati F (Daughter of Client) published on 3 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All the team at Better Care at Home are amazing. They are so kind and caring with my dad and totally reliable. The communication between the carers and the office and myself is outstanding. If they have any concerns about my dad they contact me straight away and we work together to decide what to do
next.
I have complete trust that my dad is being well looked after at home. I think if it hadn't been for Better Care he may have had to move into a residential home, which would have been very difficult for him. Their outstanding care has ensured that he can remain safe and content in his own home.
The app that the carers use to record their visits is very easy to use and I can see the carers' comments for each visit they have made. It is very reassuring to see in real-time the outcome of each visit.
I would completely recommend Better Care at Home to anyone who is looking for care for a relative or friend.
Reply from Rowan Jackson, Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thanks so very much for taking the time to review us and for your kind words. It's so important to us that people are able to remain at home, living as independently as possible. We'll always do all we can to make this happen.

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Review from Diane F (Daughter of Client) published on 3 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We could not be more impressed. From the first time we made contact with the team at Better Care At Home our Mother has received prompt, friendly, personalised care with flexibility and thoughtfulness beyond expectations. She asked us to share this information. Their communication and helpfulness with
those concerned is second to none.
Reply from Rowan Jackson, Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thank you so, so much for taking the time to review us. It makes a huge difference and we do really enjoy what we do.

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Review from Mal C (Son of Client) published on 3 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
It is a cliché but we really cannot praise highly enough. Despite the chaos that COVID and the economy has brought to the social care sector, staff have never faltered in providing a high quality of care - physical and social/emotional. Totally reliable and a brilliant service. Special thanks to the
manager who goes the extra distance, no matter which wheels he is driving...
Reply from Rowan Jackson, Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thank you so much. I do like a car, it's true. We so appreciate you taking the time to review us. It's not been an easy time over the past couple of years, COVID - wise, but we've stayed small and it has really helped. It's a pleasure being able to help such lovely people.

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Review from Christine M (Partner of Client) published on 2 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Apologies but I cannot remember exactly the date the service started. However, what I do know is the service has been exemplary, friendly and professional on all levels, and, as a full-time carer for my partner, it has given me some much-needed relief to know his personal needs are being catered for.
The team are lovely, kind and efficient at what they do. They are always on time and to see my partner happy, clean and contented when I return home is one less thing for me to worry about. My partner, even though very poorly, still has dignity and the carers give him the respect he deserves. I would not hesitate in recommending them to anyone else and am happy to continue using their services even if my partner's needs become more complex. Thank you!
Reply from Rowan Jackson, Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thanks so much for taking the time to review us. It means a lot and makes a huge difference to us. We really enjoy what we do and being able to contribute to the care of lovely people makes it easy. Thanks so much for all you do to support us - and your partner.

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Review from W F (Daughter of Client) published on 2 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The service is excellent and the people are lovely in all respects: care for the client, care for the client's interests re health care providers etc, reliability, communication with friends and relatives, flexibility, patience. They all go the extra mile, from management to the individual carers.
Re
value for money: better service than we found elsewhere.
Reply from Better Care At Home, Registered Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thank you so much for taking the time to review us. We really enjoy what we do and it means a lot to know that we are making a difference.

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Review from Carolyn H (Daughter of Client) published on 29 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Better Care at Home are simply fantastic, I cannot recommend them highly enough. They supported my dad for 3 years enabling him to live independently at home in his 90's following a diagnosis of Dementia.
Throughout that time we were so impressed with their care and professionalism. The team have
a genuine love for their job and would often go above and beyond to ensure Dad was happy including singsongs, cake baking and trips to the seaside for fish and chips! Dad loved their visits so much and spoke about his "lovely ladies" with great affection. Knowing the Better Care team were caring for Dad gave the family great peace of mind and they have become valued friends.
With great sadness, we had to move to another company when Dad required a live-in carer. However, when Dad reached the end of his life Better Care was there for us again and showed such care and compassion. We cannot thank them enough for their kindness to Dad and to the family at that difficult time.
Reply from Better Care At Home, Registered Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thank you so much. That means an awful lot. Your dad is part of Better Care folklore and we will never tire of telling tales of his exploits every time we get together. His stick will always have pride of place on the office wall and you will all, always be very dear to us.

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Review from Jayne A (Daughter of Client) published on 29 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Better Care at Home have been wonderful since our first contact with them. They have been professional throughout and nothing is too much trouble. My stepmother has had exceptional care since they have been involved, and as I do not live close enough for immediate support it is a great relief to know
that the Better Care team are on hand to respond quickly if necessary. The carers are all kind, caring, respectful of dignity and happily carry out their duties with gentleness and patience. The support team are approachable and helpful and the messaging group chat they have set up with the family is a brilliant way to keep in contact and keep everyone informed of what is happening.
I would not hesitate to recommend them as a reliable, efficient, capable and proactive team whose whole ethos is "Better Care".
Reply from Better Care At Home, Registered Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thanks so much. We really appreciate you taking the time to review us. We do really enjoy what we do.

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Review from Sophie L (Solicitor of Client) published on 26 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am a professional LPA for a client who receives a care package from the team at Better Care at Home. I have been very impressed with the quality of care and person centered approach adopted by all of the care team. They put my client at the heart of every decision and have really improved the quality
of his life since their involvement with him. I appreciate Better Care at Home's collaborative approach and the fact they problem solve with me, using their expertise to come up with the best approach. The team are friendly and easy to communicate with; and all of the staff are willing to go that extra mile for my client. The staff all genuinely care for my client and I know he is in good hands.
Reply from Rowan Jackson, Manager at Better Care at Home West

Thanks so much Sophie. We really appreciate your kind words. We do really enjoy what we do and are so grateful of all the support you provide.
Rowan

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Review from Peter B (Client) published on 26 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
As a very grateful client of this care company. I am very happy to see my carers each day. They are a very professional and friendly group of individuals, they are competent, caring and cheerful. I would recommend them to anyone for care at home.
Reply from Better Care At Home, Director at Better Care at Home West

Thanks so much, Mr B! It's an absolute privilege to be able to assist you. You are pretty much part of our family.

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Review from Josephine S (Client) published on 2 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Carers arrived on time. They were very polite and helpful. They were keen to help in any way required. They made sure I had taken my medication and that I was feeling well. I recommend this service highly.
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Review from Roger F (Next of Kin) published on 5 September 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have been so impressed with Better Care from day 1 when I first met the manager, who was honest, upfront, positive and realistic. He sets high standards for his team and they meet these, owning the ethos of the organisation. There have been countless times when the manager himself has gone beyond
the call of duty and he has also been on hand for helpful advice as and when this has been needed. He's also been super quick to respond to emails or text messages. I have nothing but praise for Better Care, and in terms of what she had experienced before when she came out of hospital nearly 2 years ago, this service is quite simply as they say of themselves... Better Care... and it is.
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Review from Sarah V (Friend of Client) published on 31 August 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The team of carers are quite simply amazing! They are warm and caring, reliable and professional. They have made a huge difference to the life of my elderly neighbour for well over 12 months now, enabling her to remain at home, as they monitor her health and adapt their care as needed. As well as
looking after her, they are proactive in advising me of any changes or medical situations that need attention on a daily basis and are both kind and supportive to other family members. A huge weight has been lifted since engaging the services of Better Care at Home - their name is well-deserved!
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Review from Susan H (Daughter of Client) published on 26 August 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
You have worked with my Mum and Dad to provide excellent care allowing them to be as independent as possible whilst supporting them where needed. You have sensitively addressed issues around my mother’s dementia to ensure she still feels in control. The group WhatsApp works well to ensure excellent
communication. I really like the fact that the manager and deputy managers work with the clients and know them well.
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Review from Nicola K (Daughter of Client) published on 21 August 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am so grateful to the care and support Better Care at Home gave to my father. Over several years they provided excellent care for Dad in his home. The care was gradually increased as his health declined. The carers became friends to Dad. He enjoyed their company and appreciated the support they gave
to him. He was a proud man and always wanted to look presentable. The carers ensured that he maintained his dignity at all times. When it was eventually time for him to be admitted to hospital, the carers were extremely supportive to him but also to me. It was a difficult time and they helped me through it. Through the Covid lockdowns, they attended as usual and were fastidious about sanitising and protecting Dad at all times. Their attention to health and safety is highly commendable. I found both management and carers extremely easy to liaise with. They were always approachable and they alerted me immediately about any concerns. A wonderful company and team. Thank you!
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Review from Sally E (Daughter of Client) published on 16 August 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My sister and I have been extremely happy with the care Mum has received over the last few months. The whole team are professional, kind and caring, and we couldn't have picked a better care company for our mum.
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Review from Christina B (Daughter of Client) published on 23 March 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Can I please say a huge thank you to mum's carers, they were all absolutely marvellous. They were caring, attentive, made sure that she felt comfortable, clean and well fed. They also made sure that she had communication with them, exchanging views, making friends with them and she felt comfortable
with them. Every one of them treated her with respect, dignity and cared for her above and beyond. I cannot thank you all enough, from mum and from our family, we truly valued your care for mum. I never expected this level of care and I am truly grateful.
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Review from Jane W (Daughter of Client) published on 11 February 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Better Care at Home West provided overnight and as-needed care for my mother, now 99 years old, for about 18 months. The whole team of carers were very dedicated to helping ensure that my mother was able to stay safely in her own home. From the first time we met with Better Care at Home West, they showed
the utmost respect. All questions and answers were directly addressed to my mother, she was assured her position in the driver's seat. My mother greatly values her independence and dignity as an intelligent adult. And Better Care at Home West met her at her level, every step along the way. They also provided a daily log so we were able to keep up with her needs and care. They were also meticulous with safety during the pandemic. We could not be happier with the care provided by the whole Better Care at Home West team.
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Review from Lewis B (Son of Client) published on 8 February 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Apprehension was the first thought when it was decided between family members that Mum required care at home. We were recommended this company by a third party as we had no previous experience in this field. The initial contact with the representatives of the company was very informative and reassuring.
We have since experienced caring and friendly visits whereupon they administer medications, hygiene matters and meals with efficiency and dignity. The carers for Mum have a kind and considerate nature towards her needs and abilities. Mum likes them very much.
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Review from Christine B (Daughter of Client) published on 6 February 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
When my mother’s mobility deteriorated, Better Care at Home West were able to provide the care she needed at home rather than going into residential care, which was a huge relief. I can honestly say that from the moment Better Care at Home took over caring for my mother I have felt reassured that she
is receiving exceptional kindness and care. I am kept fully informed of any concerns or recommendations the team may have.
I would not hesitate in recommending Better Care at Home West, they are all outstanding in the care they provide.
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (10.000)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (10.000) out of 10 for Better Care at Home West is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 5.0 out of 5 from 16 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 16 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Home Care Provider is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 5.000 for Better Care at Home West is calculated as follows: ( (95 Excellents x 5) ) ÷ 95 Ratings = 5
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5').

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows: 3 points for the first Positive Review, 2 points in total for each of the next 9 Positive Reviews (1st = 3, 2nd = 0.5, 3rd = 0.5, 4th = 0.25, 5th = 0.25, 6th = 0.1, 7th = 0.1, 8th = 0.1, 9th = 0.1, 10th = 0.1)

    The 5 points relating to the number of Positive Reviews for Better Care at Home West is based on 16 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as follows: 3 + 0.5 + 0.5 + 0.25 + 0.25 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 5
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Home Care Provider does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 5 Jan 2018

Overall Outstanding

  • Caring Outstanding
  • Effective Good
  • Responsive Good
  • Safe Good
  • Well-led Outstanding
Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England. View Latest Report

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Awards / Recognitions (12)

Meet the Team (5)

Rowan

Rowan Jackson

Job Title: Registered Manager/Owner Joined: 2015

Rowan established Better Care at Home with Joannah Bishop in 2015 following a long career in the ambulance service initially in London and later in Dorset after moving here with his young family. He has worked as a registered paramedic all across Dorset, eventually settling in Swanage as a community paramedic on the rapid response car. Rowan has also worked for the 111 services as a clinical supervisor. Since starting Better Care at Home, he has moved to Dorchester. He has a keen interest in keeping fit and is passionate about cars. He has three grown-up daughters who are all active in the business. Rowan holds a bachelor's degree in health and social care.

Lorraine

Lorraine Downing

Job Title: Care Manager Joined: 2017

Lorraine (Lolly to her friends) was born in Shrewsbury and moved to Dorset in 2013. Although it's hard to believe, Lolly has worked in care since 1995.


She has 2 teenage children and in addition to her husband Stu, also shares her house with a 5-foot boa constrictor, a large tarantula and a Chihuahua called Jorge.


In her spare time, she enjoys going for walks and drives in the countryside and listening to music. Lolly holds a level 5 diploma in health and social care.

Jas

Jas Everett

Job Title: Deputy Manager Joined: 2016

Despite her tender years, Jas has been with Better Care for over 7 years and is one of our most experienced members of staff. Born and bred in West, Dorset Jas has a keen interest in cars and often does her own servicing and repairs. She's recently completed her level 5 diploma in health and social care.

Julia

Julia Ridgway

Job Title: Weymouth Manager Joined: 2019

Julia has run our Weymouth branch since 2020. She runs a tight ship, having previously worked in a chandlery supplier (yacht supplies) in Weymouth. Julia has also worked as an estate agent in the past. When she's not out working, Julia can often be found walking her Border terrier Poppy and also has a keen interest in fast cars.

Julia, Alice and Abi

Julia, Alice and Abi

Job Title: Weymouth staff Joined: 2023

Meet team Weymouth!


Julia Abi and Alice comprise our amazing team looking after our clients in Weymouth. Ably led by Julia, and supported by the Dorchester office, this trio of caring supremos spread joy and really good care 7 days a week.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of homecare.co.uk. Please contact Better Care at Home West to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Better Care at Home West has an Enhanced Service - more info.