When it comes to choosing someone to spend most of their time caring for you or a relative it is important that you take your time to find a good match.

Some people decide to employ a carer directly and, if you are confident you know who you are employing and can deal with the legalities and tax implications yourself then this may be a good choice.

Many others prefer to use an agency. Not only does it allow them to take advantage of the wider pool of talents available but it offers them security that they are employing a reliable and suitably qualified carer.

Types of Agency

There are basically two types of agency offering home care services and it is essential that you choose the type that meets your needs.

Introduction agencies simply offer you a selection of suitable candidates but you are still responsible for employing them. They will usually run a DBS check and follow up references for your peace of mind.

Managed services employ carers themselves. They will have a pool of carers which can allow them to offer cover during carer holidays. You pay the agency and they will pay the carer meaning you don’t need to worry about whether or not you are an employer.

Questions to ask yourself

Before approaching agencies ensure you know what level of care you are looking for. Will you be looking for a care package for one or two people? Are there pets needing care? Will they need to provide transport for their client? 

Questions to ask an agency

A good agency will be able to offer satisfactory answers to the following questions so it is worth asking them of any agency you approach. Take time to read contracts before signing and ask for clarification of any terms you don’t understand.

• Do you interview carers and take up references before they can be assigned to a client?
• Have all your carers had DBS and other background checks?
• Can you provide a regular carer? What happens when our carer takes breaks or goes on holiday?
• What happens if the carer is too ill to work?
• How do you manage rotas? How many different faces will visit in a week or month?
• What training do you provide your recruits? Is there a mandatory induction course? How often is their training updated?
• Typically, what qualifications and experience do your carers have?
• Will me or my relative need to sign timesheets? Can I be sent copies if I request them?
• What happens if me or my relative don’t get on with the carer?
• What is the protocol for medical emergencies? Will the carer accompany my relative to hospital and stay with them?
• What insurance do you hold? Are there any extra charges payable? Do weekends and bank holidays cost more per hour?
• Is it possible to have a trial to see how it works?

Once you have taken all these answers into consideration, you should be able to choose the best carer for your needs