- What Types of Care Do You Offer?
Home care needs can vary from basic personal care to complex clinical support. Some providers specialise in dementia care, palliative care, or 24-hour support, while others may focus on general assistance with washing, dressing, or meals.
Why it matters: Ensure the provider can meet both your current needs and any future care requirements that may arise.
- Are You Regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)?
In England, all home care providers must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Ask to see the provider’s most recent CQC inspection report and rating—or search for it directly on the CQC website.
Why it matters: The CQC ensures providers meet essential standards of safety, effectiveness, compassion, and responsiveness.
- How Do You Recruit and Train Your Carers?
Find out if carers are Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked and what training they receive—especially in safeguarding, manual handling, and medication management. Continuous training is a sign of a provider that takes professional standards seriously.
Why it matters: Qualified, well-trained carers are essential for safe and high-quality care.
- How Are Care Plans Developed and Reviewed?
Ask how individual care plans are created, who is involved, and how often they’re reviewed. A good care plan should be personalised and flexible to adapt to changing needs.
Why it matters: Involving the individual and their family ensures the care is truly person-centered.
- Will I Have the Same Carer Regularly?
Continuity of care builds trust and comfort. Ask whether you’ll have consistent carers, and how the service handles holidays or staff absences.
Why it matters: Familiar carers are more likely to provide attentive, reliable support.
- How Do You Monitor Quality and Handle Concerns?
Reliable care providers conduct regular checks, collect feedback, and have a clear complaints procedure. Ask what mechanisms are in place for quality assurance and how they handle any issues raised.
Why it matters: A transparent process shows the provider values client satisfaction and is open to improvement.
- What Are Your Charges, and What’s Included?
Request a detailed breakdown of costs, including any extra charges for weekends, bank holidays, or specific services. Clarify cancellation policies and payment terms.
Why it matters: Understanding costs upfront helps you avoid unexpected fees and plan your budget accordingly.
- Can I Receive Help with Funding?
You may be eligible for support through your local authority, depending on your care needs and financial circumstances. Ask if the provider can help with the assessment process or direct payments.
Why it matters: Navigating funding can be complex – providers who offer guidance can reduce stress.
- Can You Provide References or Testimonials?
Ask to read client reviews or testimonials or speak with current or former clients if possible. You can also check independent review platforms and local community groups online.
Why it matters: First-hand experiences give you an honest look at what to expect.
- What Makes Your Service Unique?
This open-ended question helps you understand the provider’s values and commitment to care. Look for answers that show a genuine focus on the individual’s dignity, preferences, and independence.
Why it matters: A provider who leads with compassion and clarity will likely deliver a higher quality of care.
