We provide daily companion chats with your parent.
Plus clear updates for you.
A consistent Call Companion calls your parent to check in and provide regular company.
You receive a short written summary after each call.
It’s the perfect solution to brighten their day, while giving you space to cope with the rest.
Start within days
Safeguarding trained
Quickly learn if something is wrong
Share updates with family
Up to daily calls
Safe & secure
The problem
They’re alone. You check in and visit when you can, but you’re stretched. You might also live far away.
So you worry.
Despite the help they’re getting, no one has enough time to listen and chat with them.
ParentCalls fills the gap, and gives you the reassurance you need.
How it works
1
Book Enquiry Call (with you)
- We’ll send you a form to complete beforehand
- We answer any questions and agree a start date
2
Intro with your parent
- 1st call can be 3-way
- We keep it short and light
3
Ongoing calls
- ~30min calls t agreed times
- Ramps up slowly
- Relationship builds
4
Written updates
- Sent to you after each call
- Respects privacy
- Gives you reassurance
Who is this for? Is it like care?
No. We are not a care company. See it as additional to any care your parent might already be getting. This is suitable if your parent is lonely and you don’t have the bandwidth to give them the dedicated time required to check in regularly, keep them company, and stay on top of how they’re really doing.
Can you tailor it for my parent?
Yes. We adapt the topics, pace, tone and call structure to your parent’s personality, routines, and preferences. We agree the approach in onboarding and refine it as we learn what works best.
More FAQs on How It Works
Who will speak to my parent?
A dedicated Call Companion who stays with your parent for continuity. You will know who they are, and you will have a clear escalation route if anything needs attention. Our Call Companions are based in sunny South Africa and many have UK elder-care experience, including working with people with dementia.
Can we speak to the Call Companion first?
Yes. We can arrange a short intro call so you can align on preferences, boundaries, and what “good” feels like before calls begin.
How soon can we begin?
Usually within a few days once onboarding is complete and your parent is happy to proceed.
What happens in the first week?
Your Call Companion will onboard you: agree call times, address any remaining questions and pick from the escalation plan options. Then we have the first call, which can be 3-way if you wish. We soon learn what your parent enjoys. You will get early feedback and we can adjust quickly if required.
Call times - fixed or flexible?
We agree a regular time window for consistency, with flexibility when life happens. If a change is needed, you can message us and we will confirm the new plan in writing. Your parent can also plan ahead and make changes directly with their Call Companion.
Call length - what is typical?
Calls are structured and consistent, typically just under 30 min, which allows time for sharing a quick summary. If a call naturally needs to be shorter or longer occasionally, we handle it sensibly and note it in the call summary.
Phone calls only? What about video calls?
Phone calls are the default because they are simplest for most people. If video would help, we can consider it case-by-case.
What if my parent does not answer?
We retry twice over about 10 minutes. If there is still no answer, we send you an update and follow the agreed escalation plan for that situation.
Family updates - what do you send?
A short, plain-English summary of how the call went, and anything you should know. If there are actions or decisions needed, we make them explicit.
Can you update multiple family members?
Yes. We can include multiple people in updates. If ever we feel something might be sensitive, it will be not be included in any update, unless we feel that omitting it would pose a risk to your parent.
What you get; how it helps
- Frequent, regular calls, starting in days, not weeks
- Warm connection for your parent with someone they get to know
- Real conversation about everyday life – interests, memories, and what’s on their mind
- Light wellbeing check-in – mood, energy, pain, appetite, concerns, plans
- Short written update after every call: privacy-respecting, easy to scan in under a minute
- Fills the loneliness gaps between care visits and family calls
- Early flagging of concerns – we often spot when something is off, before it becomes a crisis
- Pass messages and reminders to your parent; send them any time before the call
- Helps you stay connected and coordinated as a family, even if you live far away
- Supports longer independent living by adding a light-touch layer of visibility.
- Helps you time any step-up in support with more confidence (and less guesswork)
- Optional add-ons in development – online shopping support and appointment scheduling help. These will be available to anyone with a regular ParentCall plan in place.
About us
I’m Richard, founder of ParentCalls. I built it based on first-hand experience of how easily an older parent’s independence can slip when time is short and loneliness quietly builds. ParentCalls is for adult children supporting ageing parents – often while juggling jobs, kids, and a parent’s changing needs.
The goal is to improve quality of life by prolonging independent living. We help you stay on top of things so your parent can keep living life on their own terms for as long as possible.
You can learn more about Richard and the ParentCalls mission here.
Call plans & pricing
3-Day Plan
- Any 3 days (Mon-Sat)
- 7-day trial, no fee
- Continue if it feels right
£32/week billed every 4 weeks at £128
5-Day Plan
- Any 3 days (Mon-Sat)
- 7-day trial, no fee
- Continue if it feels right
£45/week billed every 4 weeks at £180
Single Day
- Add to your 3- or 5-day plan
- Use 2 Single Days for a 2-day plan
- Sundays are possible
£12.50 per call
Are there any other charges?
No. We don’t charge for onboarding and there are no hidden charges. Any bolt-on services (in development) will be charged separately.
7-day trial - how does it work?
Like any relationship, it can take a few calls to develop. Your first week is considered a trial – at no fee. You only continue if it feels right. After day 7, your 4-week subscription will begin.
More Plans, pricing & cancellation FAQs
Is VAT included?
We are not currently VAT registered, so it is not charged. If we become VAT registered, we will let you know 30 days before your next renewal and VAT will be shown clearly on your invoice.
Can I add extra calls ad hoc?
Yes, subject to your Call Companion’s availability – they can tell you.
Payment methods - what do you accept?
Card payments online. If you need an alternative (e.g. bank transfer), get in touch.
When am I billed?
Billing is every 4 weeks. Any plan changes are confirmed in writing.
Can I pause the service?
Yes; we can pause if you give us 7 day’s prior notice but you will be billed otherwise. If you pause for more than a few weeks then your parent may need to be assigned another Call Companion.
Cancellation - how do I stop?
You can cancel simply by emailing us. We appreciate as much notice as possible so that your Call Companion can be re-assigned.
Can I change plans?
Yes – before your next billing cycle and provided we can accommodate it. You may be able to purchase add-on days in the meantime. Talk to your Call Companion.
What if my parent misses a call?
We retry within the agreed window and log what happened. If misses become a pattern, we adjust the timing or approach with you.
What if my parent doesn’t like it?
We’ll do whatever we can to adapt first (tone, topics, timing), and if needed we can switch the Call Companion. If it still does not feel right, you can stop.
Example call summary
“Fri 6:30pm call: Chatted for 26 mins. Mood brighter, enjoying the sun. Knee only bad going down stairs. Looking forward to Sunday! No new concerns. I passed on the reminder about her GP appointment this pm. Question: She thinks Arnica gel is helping a lot; has she got enough?”
Example if no answer: “No answer at 6:30pm. Tried again at 6:40pm. Still no answer. Messaged you and followed the escalation plan.”
Consent - who needs to agree?
Your parent must consent to the calls, and you consent as the Lead Contact for the service and updates. Where capacity is unclear, we take a cautious approach and prioritise safeguarding.
What details do you need about my parent?
In order to deliver a great service, it’s helpful to know some background information: their living situation, family members, hobbies, interests and personality. This also helps us to match appropriately with a suitable Call Companion.
More FAQs on Privacy, Safety & Boundaries
Are calls recorded?
Yes. Calls are recorded, and we may review a sample for training, supervision and safeguarding. Access is tightly restricted. Transcripts are shared only with appropriate consent or if there is a safety concern.
How do you keep information secure?
We follow UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Access is role-limited, data is stored securely, and we keep clear audit trails of what is shared and why.
What checks do your Call Companions pass?
We carry out identity and suitability checks, police clearance (similar to a DBS-style criminal record check), reference checks, onboarding, and safeguarding training. Call Companions work within clear boundaries and are supervised with regular quality reviews.
Safeguarding - what is your process?
We log concerns, assess urgency, and escalate using an agreed plan. If something suggests immediate risk, we act quickly and inform you as soon as possible.
Escalation and emergencies - what do you do?
We agree an escalation plan during onboarding, including who we call first and whether we call 999. If we believe there is immediate danger to life, we may contact emergency services even if the plan says otherwise.
What topics do you always avoid?
We do not give medical advice or discuss financial or legal affairs. We do not make care plan decisions. We also avoid any topics that you bring to our attention at onboarding or at any other time.
How do I raise a concern or complaint?
Your Call Companion is your first port of call. If that is not suitable, email us on hello@parentcalls.co.uk explaining the issue and what you want to see change. We acknowledge quickly, investigate, and respond with a clear outcome and next steps.
Book an enquiry
Your parent is unique, we understand
When you book: we will send you a form to gather some details.
In the enquiry: We’ll gain an understanding of your needs so we can match your parent with a suitable Call Companion.
Prefer to ask a quick question first?
The enquiry takes 15-20 min to run through.
All FAQs
How it Works
Who is this for? Is it like care?
No. We are not a care company. See it as additional to any care your parent might already be getting. This is suitable if your parent is lonely and you don’t have the bandwidth to give them the dedicated time required to check in regularly, keep them company, and stay on top of how they’re really doing.
Can you tailor it for my parent?
Yes. We adapt the topics, pace, tone and call structure to your parent’s personality, routines, and preferences. We agree the approach in onboarding and refine it as we learn what works best.
Who will speak to my parent?
A dedicated Call Companion who stays with your parent for continuity. You will know who they are, and you will have a clear escalation route if anything needs attention. Our Call Companions are based in sunny South Africa and many have UK elder-care experience, including working with people with dementia.
Can we speak to the Call Companion first?
Yes. We can arrange a short intro call so you can align on preferences, boundaries, and what “good” feels like before calls begin.
How soon can we begin?
Usually within a few days once onboarding is complete and your parent is happy to proceed.
What happens in the first week?
Your Call Companion will onboard you: agree call times, address any remaining questions and pick from the escalation plan options. Then we have the first call, which can be 3-way if you wish. We soon learn what your parent enjoys. You will get early feedback and we can adjust quickly if required.
Call times - fixed or flexible?
We agree a regular time window for consistency, with flexibility when life happens. If a change is needed, you can message us and we will confirm the new plan in writing. Your parent can also plan ahead and make changes directly with their Call Companion.
Call length - what is typical?
Calls are structured and consistent, typically just under 30 min, which allows time for sharing a quick summary. If a call naturally needs to be shorter or longer occasionally, we handle it sensibly and note it in the call summary.
Phone calls only? What about video calls?
Phone calls are the default because they are simplest for most people. If video would help, we can consider it case-by-case.
What if my parent does not answer?
We retry twice over about 10 minutes. If there is still no answer, we send you an update and follow the agreed escalation plan for that situation.
Family updates - what do you send?
A short, plain-English summary of how the call went, and anything you should know. If there are actions or decisions needed, we make them explicit.
Can you update multiple family members?
Yes. We can include multiple people in updates. If ever we feel something might be sensitive, it will be not be included in any update, unless we feel that omitting it would pose a risk to your parent.
Call plans & Pricing
Are there any other charges?
No. We don’t charge for onboarding and there are no hidden charges.
7-day trial - how does it work?
Like any relationship, it can take a few calls to develop. Your first week is considered a trial – at no fee. You only continue if it feels right. After day 7, your 4-week subscription will begin.
Is VAT included?
We are not currently VAT registered, so it is not charged. If we become VAT registered, we will let you know 30 days before your next renewal and VAT will be shown clearly on your invoice.
Can I add extra calls ad hoc?
Yes, subject to your Call Companion’s availability – they can tell you.
Payment methods - what do you accept?
Card payments online. If you need an alternative (e.g. bank transfer), get in touch.
When am I billed?
Billing is every 4 weeks. Any plan changes are confirmed in writing.
Can I pause the service?
Yes; we can pause if you give us 7 day’s prior notice but you will be billed otherwise. If you pause for more than a few weeks then your parent may need to be assigned another Call Companion.
Cancellation - how do I stop?
You can cancel simply by emailing us. We appreciate as much notice as possible so that your Call Companion can be re-assigned.
Can I change plans?
Yes – before your next billing cycle and provided we can accommodate it. You may be able to purchase add-on days in the meantime. Talk to your Call Companion.
What if my parent misses a call?
We retry within the agreed window and log what happened. If misses become a pattern, we adjust the timing or approach with you.
What if my parent doesn’t like it?
We’ll do whatever we can to adapt first (tone, topics, timing), and if needed we can switch the Call Companion. If it still does not feel right, you can stop.
Privacy, Safety & Boundaries
Consent - who needs to agree?
Your parent must consent to the calls, and you consent as the Lead Contact for the service and updates. Where capacity is unclear, we take a cautious approach and prioritise safeguarding.
What details are needed about my parent?
In order to deliver a great service, it’s helpful to know some background information: their living situation, family members, hobbies, interests and personality. This also helps us to match appropriately with a suitable Call Companion.
Are calls recorded?
Yes. Calls are recorded, and we may review a sample for training, supervision and safeguarding. Access is tightly restricted. Transcripts are shared only with appropriate consent or if there is a safety concern.
How do you keep information secure?
We follow UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Access is role-limited, data is stored securely, and we keep clear audit trails of what is shared and why.
What checks do your Call Companions pass?
We carry out identity and suitability checks, police clearance (similar to a DBS-style criminal record check), reference checks, onboarding, and safeguarding training. Call Companions work within clear boundaries and are supervised with regular quality reviews.
Safeguarding - what is your process?
We log concerns, assess urgency, and escalate using an agreed plan. If something suggests immediate risk, we act quickly and inform you as soon as possible.
Escalation and emergencies - what do you do?
We agree an escalation plan during onboarding, including who we call first and whether we call 999. If we believe there is immediate danger to life, we may contact emergency services even if the plan says otherwise.
What topics do you always avoid?
We do not give medical advice or discuss financial or legal affairs. We do not make care plan decisions. We also avoid any topics that you bring to our attention at onboarding or at any other time.
How do I raise a concern or complaint?
Your Call Companion is your first port of call. If that is not suitable, email us on hello@parentcalls.co.uk explaining the issue and what you want to see change. We acknowledge quickly, investigate, and respond with a clear outcome and next steps.