What Is Home Help / Homecare and How Does It Differ from a Care Home? (Homecare vs Care Homes)

When families begin exploring care options for a loved one, terms like home help, domiciliary care, and care home can often feel confusing. While they may sound similar, these options offer very different levels of support and independence.

At Horizons Homecare, we believe that understanding these differences empowers families to make confident, informed choices, and to see how remaining at home is often not only possible, but deeply beneficial.

What Is “Home Help”?

Home Help generally refers to practical support around the home. It can include light domestic tasks such as cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, and shopping assistance.

Home help is ideal for individuals who are still fairly independent but may need a hand with day-to-day chores or getting out into the community.

At Horizons Homecare, we see home help as the foundation of independence — small acts of support that allow people to remain comfortable, safe, and happy in their own homes.

Empowering Homecare Volunteer roles to Make a Difference

Horizons Homecare’s new Homecare Volunteer roles programme is open to anyone who wants to give a little time to make a big impact. Whether it’s helping serve tea and cake at a dementia café, chatting with guests at a social group, or assisting with fundraising activities, every volunteer plays an important role in creating a more connected, caring community.

Volunteers will receive the same induction training and ongoing support that our staff receive, ensuring they can contribute safely, confidently, and in line with Horizons’ values of Compassion, Community, and Continuity.

What Is “Domiciliary Care”?

Domiciliary care (also known as “care at home”) is a regulated service that provides personal care and assistance to people in their own homes.

This can include help with:

• Washing, dressing, and grooming

• Medication support

• Meal preparation and hydration

• Mobility and transferring assistance

• Companionship and emotional support

All domiciliary care providers must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) — ensuring that care meets national standards for safety, dignity, and effectiveness.

Horizons Homecare is proud to be a CQC-registered homecare provider, delivering regulated personal care across Blackpool, Fylde, Wyre, and Lancaster.

What Is a “Care Home”?

A care home is a residential setting where individuals move in and receive 24-hour care from staff on-site. Residents live full-time within the facility, and meals, laundry, and personal care are provided as part of the service.

While care homes can offer excellent support, they also involve leaving your home and routine — something that many older people find emotionally difficult.

Care homes may be best suited to those who require continuous, around-the-clock assistance or nursing care that cannot be safely provided at home.

Why Many Families Choose Homecare Instead

Homecare allows people to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes, surrounded by memories, pets, and loved ones.

With Horizons Homecare, clients receive:

• Consistent carers — familiar faces who understand individual needs and routines

• Flexible support — from 30-minute visits to full-day companionship

• Punctual, unrushed visits — every client receives the time they deserve

• Personalised care plans — built around what matters most to each person

Remaining at home supports independence, dignity, and emotional wellbeing — while still ensuring safety, professional care, and peace of mind for families.

A Word from Horizons Homecare

“We believe great care begins at home. Where people feel most themselves. Domiciliary care isn’t just about providing support; it’s about protecting independence and enabling people to live life on their terms.”— Russell Crossley, Director of Horizons Homecare

The Bottom Line

Understanding the difference between home help, domiciliary care, and care homes helps families find the right balance of support and independence.

At Horizons Homecare, we’re here to guide you through those choices. Offering compassionate, professional care that helps people stay where they belong: at home.