Recruitment
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this role employed or self-employed?
This role is employed, and you are entitled to 6 weeks of paid holiday.
2. Do I need experience working with dementia?
You don’t need formal dementia experience. What matters most is being warm, intuitive, and comfortable in supporting older people. We provide dementia training to help you feel confident.
3. What training and support will I receive?
You’ll receive initial training before you start, including First Aid, Moving and Handling, Food Safety, Data Protection, Safeguarding and Dementia. You will also get ongoing support and check-ins from your Area Coordinator. On hosting days, our HQ team is available 9 AM - 5 PM if you need advice. You’ll also have the opportunity to shadow a group before you start, so you can see how a day works in practice.
4. Will I have the same clients each week, and do I need to commit to a regular day?
Yes - continuity is really important. You’ll host the same small group each week, which helps everyone build familiarity and relationships. We ask hosts to commit to a regular day each week to maintain a routine that works well for both clients and their families.
5. How do I know if you need a host in my exact location?
We list the areas where we are currently in most urgent need of hosts, but we always welcome applications from other locations as well. Even if your area isn’t listed, there may still be a need, or we might be able to match you with clients nearby who need our support.
6. Can I fit this role around other work or commitments?
Many hosts do. As it’s typically one or two set days a week, it can fit alongside other work or responsibilities. Read more here.
7. What is expected of me on a hosting day?
You’ll work a typical day from 9 am to 5 pm, providing a welcoming, relaxed environment in your home. This includes:
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Picking up and dropping off your clients - round-trip travel will depend on how far everyone lives from each other, and mileage is reimbursed.
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Providing a hot lunch for the group
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Facilitating conversation and light activities
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Using your space safely (indoors or garden)
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Ensuring everyone can move comfortably around your home
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Recording online client updates after each Filo day, so we can see how someone is settling into the group and how they’re doing.
Personal care is not expected. You’ll be given guidance on any equipment you might need.
8. Can I take clients out or use my garden?
Days usually take place in your home, but you can use your garden if it’s safe and suitable. Occasional outings may be discussed and agreed in advance, following our Outing Consent Policy.
9. What kind of home setup do I need?
It’s not about the size of your home - what matters is that it’s comfortable and accessible, with enough space for everyone to sit together. You’ll need minimal to no steps going into your home, and a downstairs toilet. It’s fine to have pets and family members around, as long as everyone’s comfort and safety are kept in mind.
10. How long will it take until I get my first group?
There isn’t a set timeline, as we need to make sure all checks and preparations are complete before you start. This includes risk assessments, DBS checks, and shadowing a group. We’ll guide you through each step and keep you updated as your group is being set up. Please be aware that this process can sometimes take a few weeks or even months, so it may not be the best fit if you’re looking to start immediately.