Home Care. The independent option.    ‘Check list’ of key questions which should be useful to apply at a first meeting with a Care Agency.    Does the organisation work to a recognised Code of Practice?   Does the organisation have a confidentiality policy?   Ask to see the Complaints Procedure.   Are at least 2 references taken up on all Care Workers and/or nurses?   Are references validated and are staff properly interviewed?   Are all staff required to undertake induction training? Are staff offered further training?   Can a responsible person in the organisation be contacted at all times when care is being provided?   Does the organisation have full professional and employer’s liability insurance?   What arrangements are there to monitor your satisfaction with the service?   Does the organisation appear to be businesslike and well organised?     How do you contact the out of hours emergency service?   What happens if the regular care worker or nurse is sick or on holiday?   Is there a minimum level of service that has to be purchased?   What are the arrangements for paying?   Are there charges if you have to cancel the service for any reason?   Is the price all inclusive, or are there any extras for VAT or travel costs etc?    There is no VAT on home care charges made by a care agency. Agencies are now also required to provide for 4 weeks’ paid holiday for their staff. The cost of this, as well as Employers National Insurance, the cost of travel between clients, and a notional sum to cover possible sick leave have to be factored in to the hourly charge the agency makes. CLICK HERE TO ACCESS LIST OF CARE AGENCIES     Click here to return toHome Care: The Independent Option

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