Companionship care at home in London
Someone to chat to over a cup of tea, go to the park with or help with the weekly shop. Viola introduces vetted, self-employed carers who bring company back into the week.
- Usually within 48 hours
- Outings and errands
- £20 an hour

More than just a visit
Loneliness is common later in life, and it can creep up quietly. Age UK estimates that around 1 in 14 people aged 65 and over in the UK often or always feel lonely, and that 270,000 older people in England go a week without speaking to friends or family. In a big, busy city like London, it is easy to be surrounded by people and still see nobody.
Companionship care is about time together. A carer comes for a few hours, shares a meal, goes for a walk, helps with the crossword or a hobby, and makes sure the day has something to look forward to. It often helps with confidence, appetite and mood, and it gives the family peace of mind that someone is checking in.
Viola introduces you to a vetted, self-employed carer whose interests and personality fit your loved one. You agree the visits directly with the carer, and we handle the agreement, invoicing and payments.
Signs your loved one might enjoy some company
- They rarely leave the house or have stopped going to things they used to enjoy
- Long phone calls with family are the main contact they have all week
- They seem low, flat or less interested in looking after themselves
- They have lost a partner or close friends recently
- They have stopped cooking proper meals because it is only for one
- They would like to get out more but no longer feel confident going alone
What companionship care can include
Conversation and company
A proper chat over tea, someone to share news, memories and the day with.
Walks and outings
The local park, a café, a museum, the library or a visit to friends.
Shopping and errands
Help with the weekly shop, the post office, the pharmacy or the hairdresser.
Hobbies and interests
Gardening, baking, cards, music, crosswords or simply reading the paper together.
Meals together
Cooking a simple lunch and eating together, which often means eating better.
Appointments
Company on the way to the GP, dentist or optician, and help remembering what was said.
Partner carers support everyday living. They do not carry out medical procedures.
More than 1,000 families across Europe have found care through Viola
★ 4.9 / 5 reviews- 1,000+families across Europe have found care through Viola
- 160,000+hours of care arranged
- 4countries: the UK, Ireland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia
- 4.9 / 5average review rating from families
“It was great working with Viola, Jan made all efforts to get the right person for my needs and it worked out very well. I highly recommend Viola for home help”
“Thank you for the professional approach of Viola and the caregiver. Everything went quickly and smoothly.”
“The service is provided by very helpful and pleasant people. I have never had a problem where they did not have a solution. I have also always been very satisfied.”
Hourly, live-in or overnight care?
Calculate your weekly price
The hourly rate is always £20, regardless of the day of the week, weekends or bank holidays. Travel costs are included, and there are no hidden fees or additional charges.
Calculate your overnight care
Overnight care starts from £140 per night. The carer stays awake and available all night, usually from 10pm to 8am, and other times can be agreed. It can be combined with hourly care during the day.
Live-in care prices
Prices start from £150 per day. The final rate depends on the level of support needed, and we will confirm it with you before anything is agreed.
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How much does companionship care cost?
Companionship care is £20 an hour, the same rate every day including weekends and bank holidays. Travel is included and there are no hidden fees.
How often can a companion visit?
As often as suits your loved one. Some families start with two visits a week and add more later. Tell us what you have in mind and we will look for a carer who can commit to that pattern.
Can the carer help with personal care too?
Yes, if needed. Many visits start as company and gradually include help with meals, washing or dressing. The carer you choose can adapt as needs change.
Can we choose someone with similar interests?
We try to. Tell us about your loved one’s hobbies, background and the languages they speak, and we will look for a good match. You can talk to the carer before anything is agreed.