Define the care need
Describe who needs support, their routine, mobility, preferences, household members and the hours required. For patient care, keep clinical decisions with the relevant health professionals.
Choose the work arrangement
Live-in, daytime, part-time, hourly or temporary support should reflect the duration and household routine. Clarify nights, time off, accommodation, travel and start date.
Write practical duties
List child care, personal support, companionship, meals, household tasks, shopping or pet support separately. Care and general domestic work should not be assumed to be the same role.
Assess candidates consistently
Compare relevant experience, communication, references, availability, right-to-work status and expectations. No single document or short interview guarantees suitability.
Interview and decide
Ask every candidate the same core questions and invite their questions. Put pay, payment date, time off, trial arrangements, duty changes and notice terms in writing.
Follow up after placement
Explain routines, keys, emergencies, house rules and feedback from the start. Review duties and pay if the need changes.
Frequently asked questions
What information is requested?
Contact, location, care need, recipient details, work model, duties, start date, languages and budget.
How quickly can a caregiver be found?
Timing depends on location, work model, duties, budget and current availability; it cannot be guaranteed.
Are candidate documents public?
No. Sensitive documents are not published and only necessary authorised information is shared.
Should there be a trial?
A clearly defined and mutually agreed paid trial may help both sides assess fit.
Can I employ a foreign caregiver?
Immigration, right-to-work and employer obligations depend on the country and current rules.
Can a caregiver perform clinical tasks?
Only tasks within their training and authority should be considered; clinical decisions belong to qualified health professionals.
Request a caregiver
A practical guide to needs assessment, caregiver selection, interviews, duties and placement for child, elderly, patient and domestic support.
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