Blog
27 August 2026
Becoming a Live-in Caregiver | Your questions answered
Starting a new role as a Live-in Caregiver is exciting. At the same time, it’s natural to have questions. Whether you’re travelling to Ireland for the first time or simply considering a career in Live-in Care, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
by Margaret Dennehy
Live-in Recruitment and Service Lead, Dovida Ireland
We know that choosing a Live-in Caregiver role is a big decision. That’s why we focus on providing a professional recruitment process, clear communication, expert guidance, and ongoing support. From your first application to your first day with a client, and throughout your entire career with us, we’re committed to helping you succeed.
I’m travelling from another country. What happens when I get to the airport in Ireland?
Our aim is to ensure your journey is as smooth, straightforward, and stress-free as possible. We’ll make sure you know exactly where you’re going and what happens next, well in advance of your flight.
What if I have questions about my recruitment documents or background checks?
Whether you need help obtaining references, understanding documentation requirements, applying for an international police check, or completing recruitment paperwork, our dedicated recruitment team will guide you through the process.
Our team has extensive experience recruiting Caregivers from many different countries and understands the challenges candidates can face. We are happy to share our knowledge and support you every step of the way.
How do I get matched to a client?
Finding the right match is one of the most important parts of our process.
During your interview, we’ll discuss your experience, skills, preferences, and any requirements you may have. Once a suitable client has been identified, you’ll meet with the client’s Care Manager via Microsoft Teams.
The Care Manager knows the client, their routines, preferences, care plan, and home environment better than anyone. They’ll discuss the role with you and answer any questions you might have.
This conversation helps ensure the placement is the right fit for both you and the client.
How will I know what care the client needs?
Don’t worry, everything is prepared before you arrive.
Our Care Management Team completes all assessments and develops a detailed care plan before a placement starts. This care plan will be available when you arrive and will guide you through the client’s care needs, routines, and preferences.
You will not be expected to create care plans or carry out risk assessments yourself.
“All Live-in Caregivers are provided with their own private room within the client’s home.”
Will I have my own room?
All Live-in Caregivers are provided with their own private room within the client’s home, with appropriate storage space for your belongings.
“All Live-in Caregivers have access to 24/7 local office support.”
What do I do if I need help?
Our support doesn’t stop once you’ve arrived with a client. As a Live-in Caregiver, you remain an employee of Dovida and have access to 24/7 local office support.
What are the working hours like?
Many people assume a Live-in Caregiver works around the clock, but that isn’t the case.
Clients typically require support at specific times during the day, such as morning routines, meal preparation, medication support, or evening assistance. Your scheduled working hours are built around the times when care is needed.
Will I have to pay taxes in Ireland?
Yes, but it’s very straightforward.
Your salary is processed through our payroll system, and any applicable taxes are deducted automatically through Revenue before you are paid. This means you do not need to worry about setting aside money or making manual tax payments.
“An eight-week rotation model allows you to enjoy regular scheduled breaks and a healthy work-life balance.”
What happens if a client no longer needs care?
As a Live-in Caregiver with Dovida your position is a permanent role. In the event that a client no longer requires care, our team will work to find another suitable placement for you as quickly as possible.
What if I’m not sure whether Live-in Care is right for me?
It’s completely natural to have questions about starting a new role. Live-in Care is a rewarding opportunity to build meaningful relationships with clients while making a real difference in their daily lives.
At Dovida, we support our Caregivers from the very beginning and take the time to match you with a client whose needs, routine, and lifestyle are suited to your skills and experience.
Our experienced team is always on hand to provide guidance and support, helping you feel confident and comfortable throughout your placement.
About the Live-in Care Team
If you’re considering a career in Live-in Care, we’d love to hear from you. Our friendly team is ready to answer any questions and help you take the next step.
Nicola Sills Lyons
Head of Live-in
Nicola deeply values Live-in Care, as it empowers clients to remain in their homes, surrounded by treasured possessions, familiar communities, and the comforts that shape their lives, something she believes should be a fundamental right, not merely a wish.
Nicola leads the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the team, ensuring exceptional service delivery, strong team collaboration, and outstanding client satisfaction.
Jennifer Couch
Live-in Operations Manager
Jennifer has been with Dovida for nearly three years, starting her journey in HR & Retention roles at the Ballsbridge and Leopardstown local offices. In October 2022, she transitioned to, and became a valued member of, the Live-in Care team, where she now leads with dedication.
Jennifer takes great pride in establishing new services for our amazing clients, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact Live-in Care brings to their lives. She also plays a key role in supporting both new and existing Caregivers, ensuring their travel and training needs are met seamlessly.
Margaret Dennehy
Live-in Recruitment & Service Lead
A proud native of West Cork, Margaret serves as our Live-in Care recruiter, and is dedicated to streamlining the recruitment process for our exceptional Live-in Caregivers.
With her support, they navigate training and compliance effortlessly, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey into caregiving excellence.
Paulina Rimkute
Recruitment & Live-in Service Co-ordinator
Paulina, our dedicated Live-in Coordinator, oversees caregiver training and provides comprehensive travel support to both our newly onboarded and existing Caregivers.
Her invaluable assistance ensures that our Live-in Caregivers deliver uninterrupted, seamless care to clients across Ireland and caregivers have peace of mind that they will be supported and all travel is made to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Emma McKeon
Live-in Administrator
Emma brings a diverse range of administration and co-ordination experience, managing high-volume communications and supporting both clients and internal teams in a fast-paced environment. She takes pride in her diligence and attention to detail.
Rachel O’Regan
Live-in Talent Acquisition & Services Coordinator
From Clare, Rachel combines experience from Healthcare recruitment in Australia with a background in Learning & Development gained in Dublin. She supports the Live-in team through candidate sourcing and recruitment, while ensuring caregivers are supported through their onboarding journey.