Are Carers Trained, Vetted, and DBS-Checked?

The quality and safety of care depends entirely on the people delivering it. When inviting a carer into your home or the home of a loved one, it is natural to want reassurance that they are properly trained, thoroughly vetted, and trustworthy.

All reputable home care agencies carry out enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks on every carer before they begin working with clients. An enhanced DBS check reveals any criminal convictions, cautions, or other relevant information held on police records. This is a non-negotiable requirement for anyone working in health and social care.

Beyond background checks, carers should hold relevant qualifications such as the Care Certificate — a set of 15 standards covering the fundamentals of care, including safeguarding, infection control, privacy and dignity, communication, and health and safety. Many experienced carers hold NVQ or QCF qualifications in Health and Social Care at Level 2 or Level 3.

Specialist training is essential for carers working with specific conditions. Dementia care, for example, requires training in communication techniques, managing challenging behaviours, and creating safe environments. Palliative care requires sensitivity, knowledge of symptom management, and close liaison with healthcare professionals.

Ongoing training and professional development are equally important. A good agency invests in continuous training for its carers, keeping them up to date with best practices, regulatory changes, and new approaches to care. Regular supervision and appraisals help maintain high standards.

At GoCarely, every carer undergoes a rigorous recruitment process including enhanced DBS checks, reference verification, right-to-work checks, and competency assessments. We provide comprehensive induction training and ongoing development, ensuring our carers deliver the exceptional standard of care our families expect.