Finding the right care worker is one of the most important decisions you'll make.

​

At the Professional Carers Network, we help introduce families to self-employed care workers, but every arrangement is unique. We always recommend taking a little time to make sure you've found the right person for you or your loved one.

​

Here are a few simple steps we suggest:

​

✅ Meet Before You Commit

Arrange a visit, video call or face-to-face meeting before care starts. The right care worker should make you feel comfortable, listened to and confident in their abilities.

​

✅ Ask to See Their DBS Certificate

A professional care worker should be happy to show you their Enhanced DBS certificate. If they're subscribed to the DBS Update Service, you can also ask them to provide a current status check.

​

✅ Check Their Insurance

Ask to see evidence of their Public Liability Insurance.

All current members of the Professional Carers Network have Public Liability Insurance included as part of their membership.

​

✅ Ask About Experience

Every person has different needs.  Don't be afraid to ask whether they've supported people with similar conditions or circumstances before.

​

✅ Ask for References

A professional care worker should be happy to provide references from previous clients or employers where appropriate.

​

✅ Discuss the Practicalities

Before care begins, make sure you're both clear about:

• The support required

• Days and times

• Rates and payment arrangements

• Cancellations

• Holiday cover

• Emergency arrangements

• Communication with family members

Having these conversations early helps everyone know what to expect.

​

✅ Ask About a Plan B

Life happens. Care workers take holidays, become unwell and occasionally have emergencies.

Before care begins, it's important to discuss what would happen if your care worker is unexpectedly unavailable.  Think about who would coordinate alternative support. This may be a nominated family member who knows the person's needs or the care user themselves. 

​

Many independent care workers also have trusted professional contacts or colleagues they know through local networks or organisations such as the Professional Carers Network. Whilst they may be happy to suggest or introduce another suitable self-employed care worker, you remain in control of who provides your care.

​

Having this conversation before care starts helps everyone understand their role and provides reassurance that there is a plan in place should circumstances change.

​

✅ Have a Written Agreement

A simple written agreement protects everyone involved and helps avoid misunderstandings later on.  Your independent care worker will provide this.

​

​