An expert in elderly and disabled care is reminding people that financial help is available for those in need of support at home this winter.

David Carmichael, managing director of Proper Care Cornwall, says that in addition to self-funded support some people may be eligible for financial help from the council to pay towards the cost of in-home care.

Mr Carmichael, who is a qualified nurse with over 25 years of experience, says some people may be able to receive a personal budget from the local authority to spend on support from independent care providers. Packages are aimed at people who have come out of hospital or where it is considered that care at home would enable people to live independently.

Individuals can receive help with everyday tasks such as washing, getting dressed, or with domestic routines such as housework or going to the shops.

Mr Carmichael says he regularly meets vulnerable people who are not aware they can apply for financial support to help them continue to live in the comfort of their own home.

"Most people take their independence for granted, but for those who require regular care it can often be a different story as they rely on relatives, friends or neighbours for help with everyday tasks," he said.

"Each week I meet people struggling with their own care needs who aren't aware they may be eligible for a personal budget from the council. By doing so, they could choose the kind of care they want and who they want to provide it.

"Whether it is short-term home care to help people recover after a setback to their health, such as a stroke or heart attack, or those with a long term medical condition or physical disability, a personal budget can allow people to control their own support and in turn, their own lives.

"Private providers such as ours enable people to continue to live at home among friends and family, and avoid the sometimes distressing experience of having to move to a nursing or residential home."

According to the United Kingdom Homecare Association (UKHCA), more than 850,000 people are supported so they can independently in the UK, with homecare services making a "major contribution to the well-being and safety older and disabled people."

Proper Care Cornwall offers personal care and support to people living in their own homes in the Helston area and cares for around 90 people. The company, based at Tresprison Business Park in Helston, offers home help, companionship, social visits and medication support to its clients, enabling them to live independently for longer.

Launched in 2005, the business now employs a team of 30 home care workers and was rated good by the Care Quality Commission on its latest inspection. As well as receiving an overall rating, the facility was rated good in each of the inspection areas (safe; effective; caring; responsive; and well-led).

Inspectors said people and their relatives were complimentary of the support the service provided and staff were sufficiently skilled to meet people’s needs.

"At Proper Care Cornwall we are passionate about providing the best possible care to help individuals live happy and independent lives," added Mr Carmichael.

"We can provide care in the home for as long as the client requires it from half an hour a week to 24 hours a day. Our team of well trained, reliable and friendly in-home care workers can provide you with advice on all aspects of independent living and aim to help people stay as active, social and connected as possible.

"Our home assessments are free of charge and our efficient procedures are always tailored to an individual's specific needs."

If you would like to find out more, contact Proper Care Cornwall on 01326 560 973.