Question 1

What is companionship care?

Accepted Answer

Companionship care is friendly, non-clinical support focused on social interaction and everyday help. We provide company, conversation, practical assistance with daily tasks, and emotional support. Unlike personal care, we don't provide clinical services like medication administration or physical care tasks.

Question 2

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve Southend-on-Sea and surrounding areas including Leigh-on-Sea, Westcliff, Chalkwell, Thorpe Bay, and Shoeburyness. Please contact us if you're in a nearby area to discuss availability.

Question 3

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a range of companionship services including morning check-ins, meal preparation, accompanied outings and walks, help with errands and appointments, light housekeeping, home organisation, memory support activities, digital help, home safety assistance, and respite support for family carers.

Question 4

Are you DBS checked and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Victoria is fully DBS checked, insured, and has completed safeguarding training. Your loved one's safety and wellbeing are our top priorities.

Question 5

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Simply contact us via phone (07966 699608), email (info@franksfriends.co.uk), or our contact form. We'll arrange a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your loved one's needs and how we can help. From there, we'll create a personalized care plan and support can begin whenever you're ready.

Question 6

What are your rates?

Accepted Answer

Standard weekday visits (9am–6pm) are £25 per hour, with a 2-hour minimum. A half-day (4 hours) is £95 and a full day (7 hours) is £160. Evening visits after 6pm and weekends are £30 per hour. Bank holidays are £50 per hour. The first 5 miles of travel are always included, and any incidentals such as lunch or coffee are charged at cost with receipts provided. Your initial consultation is completely free and no-obligation. See our full pricing page for a complete breakdown.

Question 7

How often do visits take place?

Accepted Answer

Visit frequency is completely flexible and tailored to your needs. Some families prefer daily morning check-ins, while others arrange visits a few times a week. We'll work with you to create a schedule that provides the right level of support.

Question 8

Will I receive updates about the visits?

Accepted Answer

Yes! After each visit, you'll receive a short update with notes or photos so you always know how your loved one is doing. We maintain open, honest communication with families every step of the way.

Question 9

Do you provide personal care services?

Accepted Answer

No, Frank's Friends is a companionship service, not a personal care provider. We don't offer clinical care, nursing, lifting or hoisting, medication administration, bathing, or other regulated personal care tasks. If these services are needed, we can suggest you speak with a regulated care agency or healthcare professional.

Question 10

Can you help with dementia or Alzheimer's?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have experience supporting individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's. Victoria founded Frank's Friends after caring for her father Frank, who lived with Alzheimer's. We understand the importance of patience, routine, and meaningful engagement for those living with memory challenges.

Question 11

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Accepted Answer

We understand that circumstances change. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule a visit. We'll discuss our cancellation policy during your initial consultation to ensure it works for your family.

Question 12

How is Frank's Friends different from other care services?

Accepted Answer

Frank's Friends offers a personal, one-to-one service led by Victoria herself. We focus on building genuine relationships, not just providing tasks. Our approach is rooted in real experience - Victoria cared for her own father and understands both the practical and emotional needs of families. We provide consistent, reliable support with regular updates to give you complete peace of mind.

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