Questions to ask a carer before you hire them
A first conversation should feel like a friendly chat, not an interrogation — but there are things worth covering properly. Take the ones below that apply to your situation.
Experience and training
- How long have you been working in care, and in what settings?
- Have you supported someone with needs like ours before — dementia, stroke recovery, mobility, palliative care?
- What training have you completed, and when did you last refresh it?
- Are you trained in moving and handling, first aid, or medication administration?
Checks and paperwork
- Can I see your police check — DBS, Access NI or Garda Vetting — and when was it issued?
- Are you registered with NISCC (if in Northern Ireland)?
- Can you show proof of your right to work in the UK?
- Do you hold public liability or care insurance, and can I see the certificate?
- Are you self-employed, and if so can you confirm how you handle tax and National Insurance?
Practical arrangements
- Which days and hours can you commit to, and how far ahead do you plan your diary?
- What is your hourly rate, and does it change for evenings, weekends or bank holidays?
- How do you handle travel time and mileage?
- What happens if you're ill or on holiday — can you arrange cover?
- How much notice would you give if you needed to stop?
Day-to-day approach
- How would you handle a day when the person you're caring for doesn't want help?
- How do you keep families updated — notes, messages, a call?
- What would you do in an emergency, and who would you contact first?
- Is there anything you would rather not do as part of the role?
References
- Can you give me two references from recent care work that I can contact directly?
- Would a previous client or family be happy to speak with me by phone?
Trust your instincts
Paperwork tells you someone is safe to hire. It doesn't tell you whether they're right for your family. If the conversation feels rushed, evasive or uncomfortable, keep looking — and read our safeguarding policy for how to raise a concern.
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