Settling Into a New Home

Starting a new role as a live-in carer, nanny or housekeeper can be exciting but also a little daunting. Every home has its own way of doing things, and it can take time to find your place and feel truly comfortable.

The first few days are about learning, listening and building trust. With patience and good communication, you can quickly settle in and form a strong, positive relationship with the family you’re supporting.

Arriving Prepared

Before you move in, make sure you’ve been given the key details you’ll need, who you’ll be supporting, what tasks are expected, and any routines that are important to the household.

It helps to:

  • Pack sensibly, bringing comfortable clothes for work and some personal items for your own space
  • Keep copies of key documents (ID, DBS, training certificates) easily accessible
  • Ask for a quick tour of the home on arrival to learn where things are and what’s shared or private
  • Take time to note emergency contacts, medication routines (if relevant), and house rules

Arriving prepared shows professionalism and helps things start smoothly.

Taking Time to Settle

It’s normal to feel a bit out of place at first. Every family has different expectations and habits, and you may need a few days to understand what feels right for them.

Start gently, listen, observe and ask questions if you’re unsure. Families usually appreciate someone who takes care to get things right rather than rushing in.

Simple gestures go a long way: being polite, tidy, and respectful of personal space helps everyone feel comfortable.

Communicate Early and Often

Good communication is what makes everything work. Let the family know how you prefer to organise your day and ask them about theirs.

If you’re a carer, share brief daily updates about meals, medication, or wellbeing.
If you’re a nanny or housekeeper, check in regularly about priorities and any changes to plans.

Open communication builds trust and prevents small misunderstandings from growing into frustration later.

Keeping Balance and Boundaries

Living where you work can blur the line between personal time and work time. Make sure you know when you’re “on duty” and when you can switch off. Everyone needs time to rest and recharge.

  • Keep your personal space tidy and calm, it helps you unwind
  • Take short breaks when you can
  • Go for walks, read, or stay in touch with friends and family
  • Don’t be afraid to say if you need clarification or a change to your schedule

Looking after yourself helps you care for others with patience and positivity.

When Things Feel Challenging

Even in the best arrangements, small challenges can appear, different habits, a change in care needs, or simply tiredness after long days.

At InfinityCare+, we’re here to help if that happens. You can always reach out to us for:

  • Advice on communication or boundaries
  • Mediation if expectations need resetting
  • Cover or rest periods if you need time away
  • General support to make sure you feel confident and respected

You’re not on your own. We’re here to make sure every placement feels safe, professional and positive for both you and the family.

Finding Your Rhythm

After a week or two, routines begin to settle and things start to feel familiar. You’ll know how the household runs, what’s important to the people you support, and where you can make the biggest difference.

That’s when the work becomes truly rewarding, when you can see how much your presence brings comfort and stability.

A Job That Feels Like Home

Being welcomed into someone’s home is a privilege. It’s a chance to make a real difference while building trust and friendship along the way.

If you approach each new home with kindness, respect and openness, you’ll soon find it feels less like a workplace and more like being part of something meaningful.