Our Verification Process

Every provider listed on CareChecked undergoes a structured verification process before their profile becomes visible to families. This page explains what we check, how we check it, and what our verification does and does not guarantee.

Document Review

All providers are required to submit documentation supporting their identity, qualifications, and right to work in the United Kingdom. Our verification team reviews each document for authenticity, validity, and relevance to the care services being offered. This may include professional certificates, NVQ qualifications, first aid training, and specialist care credentials.

DBS Certificate Verification

CareChecked requires all individual care providers to hold a valid Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate. We verify the certificate number and, where possible, cross-reference it using the DBS Update Service to confirm it remains current. For agencies, we verify that DBS checks have been conducted for all staff members providing care.

DBS Update Service Monitoring

Where a provider is registered with the DBS Update Service, CareChecked conducts periodic status checks to ensure the certificate has not been revoked or updated since the original verification. This provides families with additional assurance that checks remain current.

Insurance Checks

We verify that providers hold appropriate insurance for the care services they offer. For independent carers, this typically includes public liability insurance. For agencies, we also verify employers liability insurance and, where applicable, professional indemnity cover. Providers are required to maintain valid insurance throughout their time on the platform.

References

CareChecked requests and verifies professional references from all providers as part of the verification process. References are reviewed for authenticity and relevance to establish professional credibility and track record.

Periodic Re-reviews

Verification is not a one-time event. CareChecked conducts periodic re-reviews of provider documentation to ensure credentials, insurance, and DBS status remain current. This ongoing monitoring happens automatically through our systems and the DBS Update Service where providers are registered.

What Verification Does Not Cover

CareChecked verifies documentation provided by providers but does not directly observe or supervise the delivery of care. Verification confirms that submitted documents are valid and current at the time of review. It does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of any provider's suitability for a specific care arrangement.

Families are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence, including meeting providers in person, asking questions, and checking references independently. Please review our Safety Tips for practical guidance.

Reporting Concerns

If you have concerns about a provider's credentials or conduct, please report them through our Complaints & Escalation process. We take all reports seriously and will investigate promptly.