Question 1

How do I find a private carer near me?

Accepted Answer

Create a free account, confirm your email and enter your postcode area. You'll instantly see carers, clients and providers within your chosen radius. Filter by the care needs or skills that matter to you, then read each person's profile before deciding who to contact.

Question 2

How much does a private carer cost in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Private carers typically charge £15–£25 per hour for daytime support, more for overnight or live-in care. Rates vary by region, experience and the type of care needed. See our full private carer costs guide for a breakdown by care type and tips on funding.

Question 3

What questions should I ask a carer before hiring?

Accepted Answer

Ask about their experience with your specific needs, their training and qualifications, references, availability and how they handle emergencies. Our guide lists the exact questions families find most useful.

Question 4

How do I check a carer is safe and qualified?

Accepted Answer

Ask for a recent DBS check (or Access NI in Northern Ireland, Garda Vetting in Ireland), two references, and proof of any claimed training. Carers on Care Connectors can confirm their police check, right to work, insurance and registration status on their profile — but you should always verify documents yourself before care begins. Read our safeguarding policy for more detail.

Question 5

What's the difference between a care agency and a private carer?

Accepted Answer

Agencies manage rotas, cover and some employment duties but typically charge £20–£35+ per hour. A private (self-employed) carer you hire directly usually costs less per hour and you get consistency with the same person — but you take on more responsibility for checks, contracts and cover. Many families use a mix of both.

Question 6

What does a carer actually do?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your needs, carers can help with personal care (washing, dressing), medication prompts, meal preparation, companionship, housework, errands, and getting to appointments. Agree the tasks in writing before care starts so everyone knows what to expect.

Question 7

How do I become a carer or offer services on Care Connectors?

Accepted Answer

Register as a carer or provider with a verified email, then complete your profile — your experience, availability, rates and safeguarding confirmations. Families in your postcode area will then be able to find you and unlock your contact details.

Question 8

How much does Care Connectors charge?

Accepted Answer

Joining, browsing and creating a profile are free. When two people want to connect, each pays a one-off £5 (or €5 in Ireland) to unlock that person's contact details. If you're contacting several people, the optional £25 per month Area Pass subscription unlocks everyone within 30 miles of your postcode area, and you can cancel any time. There's no commission and nothing is taken from the care you arrange.

Question 9

How do I pay for care — can I get funding?

Accepted Answer

Care can be self-funded, or you may qualify for local authority funding (means-tested), NHS Continuing Healthcare, or direct payments that let you hire your own carer. Contact your local council's adult social care team for a care needs assessment and a financial assessment.

Question 10

What if there are no carers or clients in my area yet?

Accepted Answer

If nobody is listed near you yet, your details are logged on our system and you'll receive an email notification as soon as someone joins in your area.

Frequently asked questions

Still have a question?