Questions carers ask

LCH Care (Loving Carers Helpful) is an introductory agency. We introduce self-employed carers to clients who need care. We are not your employer, and we don't manage your work.

Under our model, you work as a self-employed carer. You are not employed by LCH Care or by the client. Your care arrangement and agreed terms are set out in writing. As a self-employed carer, you are responsible for your own tax and National Insurance.

There is no fee to join, and LCH Care never charges carers a fee for finding work. You need an Enhanced DBS certificate. Many carers already have one.

You will need an Enhanced DBS check, the right to work in the UK, two references, ID, relevant experience or qualifications, up-to-date training certificates, and your own public liability insurance. Any DBS arrangements or costs will be explained to you before onboarding is completed.

Apply online, then complete our checks and a call or interview before we set up your profile. When a client's needs match your profile, we'll introduce you. The client makes the choice, and you choose whether to accept the work.

LCH Care pays you weekly by bank transfer. We don't pay in cash. Work from Monday to Sunday is paid the following Monday. Your agreed self-employed carer rate is confirmed in writing before you start, and LCH Care does not charge you a fee for finding work.

As a self-employed carer, you are responsible for your own tax and National Insurance. GOV.UK has guidance on working for yourself.

No. You choose which introductions to accept.

You should have your own room, a daily break, and proper rest. These are set out in the client's agreement. If a client needs help through the night, tell us so that the arrangement can be changed.

The client provides your food while you are working in their home. If they can't, they will pay you a weekly food allowance of £30 for groceries. This will be agreed before you start and written into your agreement.

You can do tasks you are trained and confident in. Don't do anything outside your competence, such as clinical tasks without proper training. Speak to the client and to us if you're asked to do something you're unsure about.

Yes. As a self-employed carer, you must hold your own public liability insurance before we introduce you to a client. This protects you if a client is injured or their property is damaged while you are working. You can buy cover from specialist carer insurers. Some policies also include personal accident cover and legal expenses.

Contact us straight away. We can help, but we don't manage your work. If you feel unsafe, leave the situation and call 999 if needed.

Tell us straight away and, where needed, the local authority or police. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

We'll tell you and ask for your side.

Yes, subject to the notice terms in your agreement. Tell the client and LCH Care as early as possible if you plan to stop, so the client can decide what arrangements they need next.

We use it to check and introduce you. Only the details needed are shared with clients, and only after you agree.

Yes. You are self-employed, so you are free to work with other agencies and clients. We ask that you keep your availability up to date. If you are busy or unavailable, let us know and we will stop showing your profile to clients until you tell us you are free again. This avoids clients choosing you and then finding you can't start.