FAQs for Clients
What is The Great Care Co-op (GCC)?
The Great Care Co-op is Ireland’s first worker-owned home care provider. Our carers own the co-op, which means they are truly invested in providing compassionate, reliable and high-quality care. We exist to offer Great Care and Great Jobs, and to build strong, connected communities.
Why choose a co-operative care provider?
A co-op means:
Carers are owners so they’re genuinely invested in high-quality care
We reinvest surplus into training, staff wellbeing and community impact
We prioritise dignity, connection, cooperation and community
We are a not-for-profit social enterprise rooted in ethical, human-rights-based care
What areas do you cover?
Our hubs currently operate in Dalkey, Bray and across the Dún Laoghaire area, including Shankill, Killiney, Deansgrange, Cabinteely, Dublin 4 and Blackrock, and we have plans to grow in more neighbourhoods.
What makes GCC different?
We help older adults flourish at home, stay connected to the community and continue doing what matters most. Our motto is “Coffee Before Care”, we take time to build genuine relationships built on trust. By working in small neighbourhood teams, we offer reliability, consistency and a warm, human-centred approach to care. Our aim is to know the small things that will ‘make your day’.
What services do you provide?
We offer personalised home care supports, including:
Personal care (bathing, grooming, mobility support)
Home support & companionship (housework, shopping, life admin)
Wellbeing visits
Accompaniment to appointments & social activities
Alzheimer’s and dementia care
Chronic illness support
Palliative care
Respite care
“Home From Hospital” transition support
And more, is there something else you need? we tailor care to your individual needs
How do you create a care plan?
We start with a free consultation to learn about you, your routines, preferences and support circle (family, friends, neighbours, PHN/GP). Together, we co-design a personalised care plan. Your regular carer can discuss changes with you at any time, and we’ll adjust the plan as your needs evolve.
How does payment work?
Private clients are billed fortnightly through our secure Stripe payment system.
You or your bill payer may claim tax relief using the HK1 “Employing a Carer” form (claimed monthly or annually).
If the bill payer doesn’t pay tax, another family member may be able to claim relief.
For HSE-funded clients, GCC invoices the HSE directly — nothing for you to do.
Are your carers qualified and trustworthy?
Yes. All GCC carers QQI qualified. We carefully recruit for the right people using GCC’s Values-Based Recruitment to ensure we recruit people who share our values and vision.
Because they are co-owners, our carers are committed, reliable, and deeply connected to the people they support.
Will I have the same carer each time?
We work in small neighbourhood “hubs” to ensure consistency. You will have a regular carer (or small team). If a replacement is needed, we always try to introduce them in advance for peace of mind.
Do you support people returning home from hospital?
Yes. Our “Home From Hospital” service helps people safely transition home, supporting recovery and independence.
Do you provide dementia/Alzheimer’s care?
Yes. Our carers are trained in dementia-informed approaches and use meaningful, engaging activities to support wellbeing and independence.
Do you offer palliative care?
We provide compassionate palliative support, helping people remain comfortable at home with dignity and respect.
Is there a minimum number of hours?
We are flexible. Whether you need a small weekly visit or daily support, we work around your needs. The length of time can change as your needs change, it is all about getting great outcomes for people.
How do I start care with GCC?
Call: 01 233 6194 or email: info@tgcc.ie.
We’ll arrange a consultation, co-create your care plan, and introduce your local neighbourhood care team.
Is GCC regulated?
Yes. We are an approved HSE provider with strong quality assurance, safeguarding measures, and a commitment to safe, well-led care.
What is a social enterprise?
A social enterprise is a business that exists to create positive social impact.
GCC focuses on three goals:
Supporting people to age well at home
Creating secure, sustainable jobs for carers
Championing equal opportunities for migrant women