Safety Tips for Families

Choosing a care provider is an important decision. While CareChecked verifies provider documentation and credentials, we encourage all families to take an active role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those receiving care. The following guidance is designed to help you make informed choices.

Questions to Ask Care Providers

Before engaging a care provider, consider asking the following:

• Can you provide your DBS certificate number for me to verify independently?
• What qualifications and training do you hold relevant to my care needs?
• Do you have valid public liability insurance? Can I see a copy of the policy?
• Can you provide references from previous clients or employers?
• What experience do you have with the specific type of care required?
• How do you handle emergencies or unexpected situations?
• Are you registered with any professional bodies or regulatory organisations?
• What are your rates, and what is included in those fees?

Home Visit Safety

If a care provider will be visiting your home or the home of a loved one:

• Arrange an initial meeting in a public place or with another person present
• Let someone else know when a new provider is visiting for the first time
• Ask to see identification and their DBS certificate in person
• Trust your instincts — if something does not feel right, it is always acceptable to end the meeting
• Keep valuables and sensitive documents secure, particularly during the initial period
• Establish clear boundaries and expectations from the outset

Contracts and Agreements

We strongly recommend putting arrangements in writing. A clear agreement should cover:

• The specific care services to be provided
• Hours, schedule, and any flexibility arrangements
• Fees, payment terms, and cancellation policy
• Notice period for either party
• Confidentiality expectations
• Emergency contact procedures

For complex care arrangements, you may wish to seek independent legal advice before entering into an agreement.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a care provider:

• Refuses to show their DBS certificate or identification
• Cannot provide verifiable references
• Asks for large upfront payments before care has begun
• Is evasive about their qualifications or experience
• Pressures you into making a quick decision
• Discourages you from seeking other options or opinions
• Insists on communicating only outside of the CareChecked platform

Safeguarding Basics

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. If you are arranging care for a vulnerable person, be aware of the following:

• All care providers should be trained in basic safeguarding principles
• Providers should know how to recognise and report signs of abuse or neglect
• You have the right to ask about a provider's safeguarding training and policies
• Local authorities have safeguarding teams that can offer guidance and support

What to Do If Something Feels Wrong

If you have concerns about a care provider's conduct or the safety of someone receiving care:

• Immediate danger: Contact the emergency services on 999
• Safeguarding concern: Contact your local authority's adult or children's safeguarding team
• Report to CareChecked: Use our Complaints & Escalation process to report a provider
• General advice: Contact us and our support team will assist you

You should never feel obligated to continue an arrangement that does not feel safe. CareChecked takes all reports seriously and will investigate concerns promptly.