Embarking on a career as a self-employed carer can be exciting and liberating. Whether you're switching jobs or starting a new career, it is empowering to choose your clients, set your hours, and set your rates. However, knowing where to begin can be daunting. This guide will help you navigate the journey and outline how to be a self-employed carer.
How to become a private carer
To become a private carer, it's essential to understand the role's responsibilities and requirements. You'll be offering personal private care and support to individuals, often in their homes. You could be managing medication, light household duties, meal planning and operating as part of their support system. Begin by researching the needs in your area and identifying the type of care you want to provide.
Training and qualifications required - carer qualifications
There's no legal requirement as a self-employed carer to hold specific qualifications. But obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your credibility and skills. The Care Certificate is a great starting point, guiding new carers through essential knowledge, skills, and behaviour standards.1
You might also consider Diplomas and NVQs in Health and Social Care.2 Or you may choose to gain experience and qualifications through an apprenticeship to start your caring profession.
Self-employed carer legal requirements
To work as a trained care worker, you'll need to obtain an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Certificate. This certificate proves you don't have a criminal record and are not barred from working with vulnerable adults. An enhanced DBS check costs £38, with an annual £13 Update Service fee. You'll need an organisation to apply for this check on your behalf,3 or you might also be a member of a professional body that can help.
How do I become a registered carer?
To become a self employed carer you'll need to decide whether to operate as a sole trader or a limited company. Limited companies providing care services must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). They must also undertake regular inspections, and adhere to training and reporting requirements. Many self-employed carers avoid this by setting up their business as sole traders.
You'll have to declare yourself self-employed to HMRC; then make your income tax payments through your Self-Assessment Tax Return.
Have a plan for your care business
Setting out a business plan that clearly details your goals is good practice. For example, what kind of clients do you want to work with?
- Will you be offering specialist care?
- How much do you hope to earn from your own clients?
- What are your legal obligations to your clients?
- What hours are you prepared to commit as a self-employed carer, and will you have a geographical area to cover?
All these questions should be answered in your business plan. You'll need to outline how you intend to attract new clients, define your own rates, marketing activities and budget.
Draw up contracts
You'll need to create contracts to agree to for you and your clients. They should outline the service you will provide including:
- Hours.
- Pay.
- Responsibilities.
- Cancellation of services.
As well as contracts, you must have documented procedures for complaints, risk assessments, your duty of care and safeguarding.
Arrange insurance
Insurance is vital to protect against potential risks as a self-employed individual. At a minimum, you'll need:
- Public liability insurance – protects against claims made by clients or the public for injuries or property damage caused by your work.
- Personal injury cover – ensures you're covered and viewed as possessing self-employed carer insurance, if you're unable to work due to an injury sustained while working.
Check with your car insurance provider to ensure coverage for work-related travel.
Connecting with clients
Finding clients is the next step. Think about the following options:
- Website - set up a simple website to showcase your services and provide contact information.
- Directory listings - pay to list your services on specialist care provider directories like Care.com.
- Social media - use LinkedIn and Facebook to network and attract referrals.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful self-employed carer. For more information on protecting yourself and your business, explore additional resources and support networks.
Get in touch if you have any questions regarding your business insurance or for a quotation visit our website.
Sources
1. skillsforcare.org.uk/care-certificate
