Standard home care supports everyday living, things like washing, dressing, meals and prompting medication. Complex care goes further. It is clinically led support for people whose health needs require specialist training, equipment or ongoing monitoring, with registered nurses overseeing the care and a plan that is reviewed as needs change.

The real distinction is the level of clinical need. Standard care is built around daily tasks. Complex care is built around a health condition and the risks attached to it, which is why it relies on trained staff, proper clinical governance and a carer matched to the individual rather than whoever is available to fill the shift.