Provider Resources

This page provides practical guidance to help CareChecked providers maintain their verification status, optimise their profile, and deliver a professional service to families.

Preparing Your DBS Documents

An Enhanced DBS certificate is required for all individual care providers on CareChecked. To ensure a smooth verification:

• Ensure your certificate is an Enhanced DBS check (not Basic or Standard)
• Scan or photograph the certificate clearly — all text must be legible
• If your certificate is more than three years old, consider applying for a new one
• Upload the full certificate, including both sides if applicable

DBS Update Service Guidance

We strongly recommend registering with the DBS Update Service. This allows CareChecked (and families) to verify your DBS status online at any time, which:

• Speeds up the verification process significantly
• Means you do not need to apply for a new certificate each time
• Demonstrates to families that your check is continuously monitored

The DBS Update Service costs £13 per year and you must register within 30 days of your certificate being issued.

Compliance Reminders

Maintaining your verified status requires ongoing compliance. Please ensure:

• Your public liability insurance remains valid and is renewed before expiry
• Any changes to your qualifications, training, or circumstances are reported promptly
• You complete any re-verification requests from CareChecked within the stated deadline
• Your profile information accurately reflects the services you currently offer
• You comply with all applicable UK legislation, including GDPR data protection requirements

Profile Optimisation Tips

A well-maintained profile helps families find and choose you:

• Professional photograph: Use a clear, recent headshot with a plain background. Profiles with photographs receive significantly more enquiries.
• Detailed bio: Describe your experience, approach to care, and any specialisms. Write in a professional but approachable tone.
• Service areas: List all postcodes and regions you are willing to cover. The more areas you serve, the more visible your profile will be in search results.
• Availability: Keep your availability up to date. Families prefer providers who can respond and start care promptly.
• Reviews: Encourage satisfied families to leave a review. Positive reviews significantly improve your profile's visibility.

Responding to Enquiries

Prompt and professional responses to family enquiries are essential:

• Aim to respond within 24 hours where possible
• Be clear about your availability, rates, and the services you can provide
• If you cannot take on new clients, let the family know promptly rather than leaving them waiting
• Maintain a professional tone in all communications
• Never share sensitive personal information in messages

Safeguarding Responsibilities

All care providers have a duty to safeguard the people they care for. As a CareChecked provider, you are expected to:

• Hold current safeguarding training appropriate to your care type
• Recognise and respond to signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Report safeguarding concerns to the appropriate local authority team
• Cooperate fully with any CareChecked investigation into a complaint or concern
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times

For further information, consult the Care Act 2014 statutory guidance or contact your local authority safeguarding team.

Need Help?

If you have questions about your account, verification, or any aspect of using CareChecked, please contact our support team. You can also visit the Provider FAQ for answers to common questions.