Hire a Carer Safely: 7-Step Family Checklist
By Blog, For Employers

Posting for a carer on KaMatch? Use this simple checklist: duties, references, DBS/right-to-work prompts, trial shift, agreement and pay.

Finding the right carer is personal. Here’s a clear, practical process you can follow on KaMatch.

1) List the essentials
Hours, days, live-in vs day visits, mobility needs, medication prompts, personal care, meal prep, companionship, budget range.

2) Ask for the right badges
Toggle DBS required (UK) or relevant police/background checks in your country. Ask for Right-to-Work confirmation and any certificates (Care Certificate, First Aid).

3) Screen by experience
Shortlist profiles mentioning similar conditions (e.g., dementia, stroke, autism, PEG feeding only if trained). Look for steady roles, not just many short stints.

4) Reference check
Ask for two references (previous families or agencies). Message them briefly: reliability, punctuality, communication, any concerns.

5) Interview well
Share a typical day and tricky scenarios:

  • “Mum sometimes refuses medication—what would you do?”
  • “What is your approach to safe moving & handling?”
    Look for calm answers, safeguarding awareness, and respect for dignity.

6) Trial shift (paid)
Start with 2–4 hours while a family member is at home. Agree duties in advance. Trust your instinct about rapport.

7) Put it in writing
Confirm hours, pay, holidays, notice, tasks, and boundaries (e.g., cash handling, driving). Exchange emergency contacts. Use in-app chat to keep records.

Safety notes: Always meet first in a public place or with someone present. Avoid cash up-front requests. Report anything suspicious via the app.

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