Purpose
This guide helps you work confidently and respectfully alongside a client’s spouse or family member. It sets clear expectations, supports professional boundaries, and ensures safe, high-quality care.
Key Points
You are a trained professional—your expertise should be respected.
Always follow the care plan and agreed responsibilities.
Maintain clear, polite communication with spouses and family members.
Stick to light domestic duties only (unless additional support is agreed).
Report any concerns to the office—don’t manage conflicts alone.
Procedure Summary
When working in a home where a spouse is present:
Follow the care plan at all times
This outlines exactly what you should and shouldn’t do.Maintain professional boundaries
Be friendly and respectful, but avoid taking on tasks outside your role.Communicate clearly
If something is unclear or changes are suggested, check with the office before acting.Work safely
Always follow your training for moving & handling, medication, and infection control.Report issues early
If there are tensions, concerns, or unclear expectations, contact the office promptly.
Your Role & Responsibilities
Providing Care
You are responsible for delivering care in line with training and the care plan, including:
Personal care (as required)
Medication support (as prescribed only)
Safe moving & handling practices
Companionship and emotional support
Working with Spouses
Treat spouses with kindness and respect.
Expect the same respect in return.
Listen to input, but do not accept instructions that conflict with the care plan.
Redirect any care changes to the office.
Communication
Keep communication calm, clear, and professional.
Use your phone appropriately for:
Logging notes
Communicating with the office
Personal phone use should only happen during breaks.
Light Domestic Support (What You Can Do)
If included in the care plan, you may:
Clean and tidy key areas (basic level)
Do laundry and light ironing
Prepare simple meals
Do small shops or errands
Make beds and manage rubbish
Feed pets (if agreed)
👉 If spousal support is not included, these tasks are only for the client—not the wider household.
What You Should NOT Do
Deep cleaning or heavy-duty housework
Moving heavy furniture
Gardening or maintenance work
Managing finances or legal matters
Walking dogs (unless agreed in the care plan)
Taking on complex or specialist tasks outside your role
Professional Practice Reminders
Medication: Only follow written instructions from GP/pharmacy/care plan
Moving & Handling: Always follow your training and risk assessments
Safety first: Never take shortcuts, even if requested by family
If you’re ever unsure—pause and check with the office.
FAQs
What if a spouse asks me to do something outside my role?
Politely explain that you need to follow the care plan and will check with the office.
What if I feel uncomfortable or disrespected?
Report this to the office as soon as possible. You should feel safe and supported at work.
Can I take instructions from the spouse?
You can listen, but any changes must go through the office to ensure safety and consistency.
What if there’s tension in the home?
Stay professional, avoid confrontation, and contact the office for support.
Am I responsible for the whole household?
No—only tasks agreed in the care plan, and usually focused on the client.
Important Reminders
You are not expected to manage difficult situations alone—we’re here to support you.
Clear boundaries help protect you, the client, and the family.
A respectful, calm approach goes a long way in shared living environments.
If you ever feel unsure, overwhelmed, or need clarity—please contact the office. We’re here to help you deliver the best care possible.