Sometimes a little regular support can make a very big difference.
Almost Family visiting companionship is built around the individual — their interests, routines, personality and the things they would like to continue doing.
It might mean conversation and company at home, getting out for lunch, attending appointments, shopping, pursuing an old interest or simply having a familiar person to spend time with each week.
The important thing is finding the right companion and creating support that feels natural rather than imposed.
Personal from the start
Support built around you
We start by getting to know the person rather than asking them to fit into a standard package.
From the first conversation, we take time to understand what matters to them, how they like to spend their time and where a little additional support could make life easier or more enjoyable.
From there, we can shape a tailored, person-centred arrangement designed to promote independence, build confidence and provide reassurance for family members.
Everyday life
What visiting companionship might look like
Every arrangement is different. These are simply some of the ways a companion might become part of someone’s week.
Conversation and companionship at home
Getting out for coffee or lunch
Shopping and everyday errands
Attending appointments
Walks and local outings
Hobbies and shared interests
Help maintaining familiar routines
Encouragement to stay active and engaged
Practical everyday support
A regular friendly face during the week
Finding the right person matters
We believe good companionship is about much more than matching a diary.
When recruiting and introducing companions, we consider personality, interests and compatibility as well as experience and availability.
We want someone to feel comfortable with their companion, have things to talk about and genuinely enjoy spending time together.
That human connection is an important part of what Almost Family is about.
Relationships take time to develop, so consistency matters.
Wherever possible, we aim to provide the same companion — or a small familiar team where necessary — rather than continually introducing different people.
That continuity can help build confidence, trust and genuine connection, while also providing reassurance for families.
Supporting independence
Good support should add to someone’s life, not take it over.
Our aim is to help people continue doing as much as possible for themselves, stay connected with the people and activities they enjoy and feel more confident about everyday life.
Sometimes that means practical support. Sometimes it simply means having the right person alongside you.
Reassurance for families
When someone you care about lives independently, knowing they have regular, dependable companionship can provide valuable reassurance.
Families can know that there is a familiar person visiting regularly, getting to know their relative and noticing the small things that matter.
People you can feel confident about
We know how important it is to feel comfortable with the person coming into your home.
Before a companion is introduced, we complete identity and right-to-work checks, obtain satisfactory references and require an Enhanced DBS check. Companions also complete appropriate training relevant to the support they provide.
Just as importantly, we consider personality, interests and compatibility so that introductions are based on much more than availability alone.
Where we provide visiting companionship
Visiting companionship is available across selected areas of Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex.
Visiting companionship is regular non-medical companionship and practical lifestyle support shaped around the individual. It can include company at home, shared interests, outings and help with everyday routines, supporting confidence and independence.
Will I have the same companion?
Continuity matters to us. Wherever possible, we aim to provide the same companion or a small familiar team, giving trust and genuine connections time to develop.
How do you choose a companion?
We get to know your personality, interests and preferences, then consider compatibility, experience and practical availability to find someone you can feel comfortable with.
How often can someone visit?
We talk through what would help and shape the frequency and length of visits around your circumstances and local availability, rather than asking you to choose a fixed package.
How much does visiting companionship cost?
Every arrangement is slightly different. Once we understand the support you’re looking for, we’ll explain the options and agree a clear price with you before anything begins.
You don’t need to know exactly what support is required before contacting us.
Tell us a little about the person, what life looks like now and what you think might help. We’ll talk it through and explain the options clearly before you decide whether Almost Family feels right.
There is no obligation to go ahead. We’ll agree a clear price with you before support begins.
You don’t need to have everything worked out. Tell us a little about the support you’re looking for and we’ll get in touch for a friendly, no-obligation conversation. Please don’t include confidential medical information.