Frequently asked questions

Are you registered with the CQC?

I do not need to be registered by CQC as I am self employed PA and I am employed directly by you - the individual who needs care and support. I invoice you and you pay me directly. It can funded either by health, social care or self funding.

This is because the current Regulated Activity of ‘personal care’ has an exemption relating to PAs (personal assistants).

It applies where people like me are employed without the involvement of an agency or employment business, and my work is controlled and directed by you, or a person who who manages your affairs on your behalf.

This exemption applies even if I am required to carry out clinical health care tasks, which a healthcare professional has delegated to a PA they have assessed as being competent at that task.

You can download the CQC guide here

What is a DBS

The DBS is run by the UK government. It is called The Disclosure and Barring Service.

A DBS check is a way for employers to check to see if I have a criminal record, and to help decide whether I am a suitable person to work for you.

I have the Enhanced DBS to enable me to work with people of all ages.

A DBS certificate has only an issue date and no expiry date, so I remain on the DBS Update Service.

I am fully qualified and can supply excellent references and testimonials

Who are the CQC?

The Care Quality Commission is the independent regulator of health and adult social care services in England. Their job is to ensure people get good quality care. They do this by monitoring, inspecting and regulating services and publishing reports on what they find. It also protects the interests of people whose rights are restricted under the Mental Health Act.

If you have any concerns their contact details are as follows - Telephone: 03000 616161. Email: enquiries@cqc.org.uk. Their phone lines are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm, excluding bank holidays

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding means protecting a persons’s health, wellbeing and human rights; enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. It includes children and young people and those people receiving care in their own home. It can be people with physical, sensory and mental impairments, or those with learning disabilities. It is everyone's responsibility to report any concerns.

This is a useful guide from Age UK. This guide explains who you should contact if you have any concerns.

Other questions

• Do you take card payments? Yes I do. I also accept online card or bank transfer payments. I do not however take cash or cheques
• Can you take me out? Yes I can. You can add me to your car insurance as I have a full driving license but sometimes with your wellbeing in mind it is safer to take an adapted taxi
• Can you take my pet to the vet? Yes! Your pet can safely and securely travel in my car.