Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What exactly does Judi do?

Accepted Answer

Judi is an independent senior life transition advisor. She helps families understand their options when a loved one needs more support — whether that's care at home, a move to a care home, or planning ahead. She listens, explains, researches, and guides. She does not provide legal or financial advice, and she does not arrange care directly.

Question 2

How is Judi different from a care manager or social worker?

Accepted Answer

A care manager typically arranges and coordinates care services. A social worker is employed by the local authority and works within its resources and criteria. Judi is independent of all of these — she works only for the families she advises, with no obligation to any provider or authority. Her role is to help you understand the landscape and make informed decisions.

Question 3

Does Judi receive commission from care homes or other providers?

Accepted Answer

Never. Judi has no financial relationship with any care home, home care agency, solicitor, financial adviser, or any other provider. She charges only the families she works with, which means her advice is genuinely independent.

Question 4

What does a first conversation look like?

Accepted Answer

The first conversation is free and without obligation. Judi will ask about your situation, listen carefully, and help you understand whether she can help and how. There's no pressure and no commitment required.

Question 5

How do I know if I need Judi's help?

Accepted Answer

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the care system, unsure where to start, worried about a parent or partner, or simply want someone independent to help you think things through — Judi can help. You don't need to have a specific problem or crisis. Many families come to Judi at the early stages of planning ahead.

Question 6

What services does Judi offer?

Accepted Answer

Judi offers a range of advisory services including: initial care consultations, care navigation (helping you understand and access the right services), care home research and visits, family meetings and facilitation, paperwork and form-filling support, hospital discharge planning, downsizing and moving support, and ongoing advocacy. See the Work With Judi page for full details.

Question 7

Does Judi provide hands-on care?

Accepted Answer

No. Judi is an advisor, not a carer. She does not provide personal care, nursing care, or any form of hands-on support. Her role is to help families understand their options and navigate the system.

Question 8

Can Judi recommend a specific care home or care agency?

Accepted Answer

Judi can help you research and evaluate options, accompany you on care home visits, and help you ask the right questions. She does not make specific recommendations or endorsements, as this would compromise her independence. Her role is to help you make an informed choice, not to make it for you.

Question 9

Does Judi provide legal or financial advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Judi is not a solicitor, financial adviser, or benefits specialist. She can help you understand what questions to ask and point you towards appropriate professionals, but she does not provide legal or financial advice.

Question 10

Where does Judi work?

Accepted Answer

Judi is based in Kent and primarily works with families across Kent, Surrey, and East Sussex. She can also support families managing care from a distance — many of her clients live elsewhere in the UK but have a parent or relative in the area.

Question 11

Can Judi work with families who live far away?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many families managing care from a distance find Judi's support particularly valuable. She can conduct consultations by phone or video call, and can act as a local presence for families who cannot be there in person.

Question 12

Does Judi work outside Kent?

Accepted Answer

Judi's in-person work is focused on Kent, Surrey, and East Sussex. For families outside this area, she can offer remote support by phone or video call, though she may not be able to visit care homes or attend meetings in person.

Question 13

How much does Judi charge?

Accepted Answer

Judi charges an hourly rate for her time. The first conversation is always free. Fees for specific services such as care home research packages or family meeting facilitation are agreed in advance. Please get in touch to discuss your situation and receive a clear indication of likely costs.

Question 14

Is there a minimum commitment?

Accepted Answer

No. Some families need a single consultation to get clarity; others work with Judi over several months. There is no minimum commitment and no retainer. You pay for the time and support you need.

Question 15

Can the cost be covered by the person needing care?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes. Judi's fees are often paid from the assets of the person needing care, in the same way that legal or financial advice fees might be. This is something to discuss with a solicitor or financial adviser if relevant to your situation.

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