Finding the right care for you or your loved one to live comfortably and safely can be challenging. If staying at home is a priority, hiring a private carer can be an option to consider. This guide can help you make an informed decision about what’s best for you and your loved ones.
It explores how to find a private carer and what they do. It also looks at the advantages and disadvantages of private carers and alternative care options that could benefit you or your loved one at home.
Alina Homecare provides a range of services if you or your loved one needs additional support and wishes to remain at home. Our Home Care offers a reliable, regulated alternative to private carers with award winning support.
Our Care Assistants are fully trained through our exclusive Academy and provide dedicated, personalised support. Enjoy added peace of mind knowing you or your loved one is being supported through our quality services which are monitored using our care monitoring app. and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). To learn more about our Home Care services, contact your local Team.
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The basics of private care
Private care is a type of Home Care where the person receiving care or their loved ones pay a self employed carer directly. As a service, private care should provide similar support to other forms of Home Care. This involves personal support for people who need extra assistance at home. Unlike care homes or care centres, private carers concentrate on one person or a couple in their own home. This support helps them stay independent at home and maintain daily routines.
Private care provides different services that fit each person’s needs and preferences. This can include help with daily tasks like washing and dressing, managing medication and providing companionship. The aim of private care is to improve quality of life and respect personal choices.
What does a private carer do?
Private care means hiring someone directly, rather than through a regulated provider or agency, to provide additional support at home with daily tasks and routines. This type of help is often personal and focuses on specific needs and preferences. A private carer plays a similar role to a personal assistant. They can help you or your loved one with bathing, dressing, cooking meals, providing medication reminders and helping with mobility.
Many people who choose private care want to remain living at home so they can have control and independence in their lives. In fact, 72% of people aged over 75 would choose to stay at home rather than move into a care facility.[1] This is particularly important for people who feel stressed or worried about changes or the prospect of moving.
It’s important to note that private carers who work alone are not regulated by the CQC. This is a significant difference from other care providers which are regulated and have regular inspections, like Alina Homecare. This is to ensure you or your loved one are receiving quality assured care and provides added confidence that services meet high quality standards. It’s important to look closely at the background and references of any private carer you hire.
Different types of private care services
Private care services are adaptable and can cater to different needs, though this will be dependent on the experience and skill of the individual person hired. They provide help for older or disabled adults who require assistance with daily activities. This help can involve cooking meals, doing light cleaning, supporting mobility and helping with personal hygiene.
People who have certain conditions, such as dementia or cancer, can receive help through specialised care. Private carers who help people with these conditions can take courses to understand how to provide the right support. Specialist training, however, is often not guaranteed and would be at the expense of the private carer or the person receiving care. By contrast, a regulated Home Care provider has to ensure consistent training for all carers. Regardless, care should always aim to help keep you or your loved one safe and provide the support needed to remain at home as independently as possible.
Private carers can also help people recover after surgery, a hospital admission or people that have a long term illness. Some can even move into the home to provide round the clock support so help is at hand whenever it’s needed.
Preparing to find a private carer
Taking some time to prepare before looking for a private carer can be helpful. The first step is understanding what help you or your loved one needs. It’s important to start thinking about what you expect from a private carer and the legal responsibilities you will have.
Here are some questions you may want to think about before looking for a private carer:
- Am I able to complete the paperwork and admin associated with employing someone directly?
- Can I afford the recruitment process of a private carer?
- Is more support required at certain times of the day?
- Will it be just a few hours each week or full time care?
- What qualities am I looking for in a carer?
- Do I know enough about regulations and care standards to ensure the care delivered is high quality?
- Do I have to pay private carers National Insurance?
- Is support required throughout the night?
- Is specific care relating to certain conditions needed?
- What specific daily tasks will the carer need to provide support with?
- What is my contingency plan if my private carer is unavailable suddenly or takes holiday?
- Are there any specific personal preferences regarding a private carer?
Determining your care needs and budget
Making a good care plan is key to picking the right private carer. Start by writing down the tasks and activities you or your loved one need help with. For example, this can include washing, dressing, managing medications, running errands, making meals or providing companionship.
Also included in the care plan is how often care is required. Next, think about how often and for how long you or your loved one needs help. Do you need a few hours of care each week or someone there all the time ready to provide support?
Creating a detailed care plan can be overwhelming as there are many different factors that need to be considered. If you choose private care, having an official care plan will be trickier; if you or your loved one have specific healthcare needs, you will have an NHS care plan but not a personalised plan for receiving care at home.
At Alina Homecare, we do this for you and work with you and your loved ones to create a comprehensive and fully tailored care plan. We ensure all care plans meet our client’s needs, preferences and budget.
It’s also helpful to consider costs and create a personal budget before searching for a private carer. First, check the average hourly rates for private caregivers in your area. This will help you understand the costs you might expect. It’s also important to explore social care funding options as your local council may offer funding support that can help you with your finances.
Legal considerations in the UK for employing a private carer
When you hire a private carer in the UK, it’s important to know your legal responsibilities. The first step is to choose if the carer you hire will be an employee or self employed. Getting legal advice can help clarify this. Each type of employment comes with different rules about tax, National Insurance and employment rights.
We recommend reading the Government’s guide on hiring someone to work in your home to learn more about the rules and regulations you must follow.
Next, you need to get a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for any private carer you’re considering hiring. A DBS check helps ensure the person receiving care is safe. It shows any criminal records that might mean the carer is not suitable for the job.
Having a written employment contract is very important. This contract must clearly state the terms of employment. It should cover details such as working hours, pay rates, holiday allowance and notice periods. A clear contract protects both parties and helps to create a strong professional relationship.
If you choose Alina Homecare, we handle all these legal considerations directly with employed carers. You and your loved ones can focus on receiving quality, reliable care without having to worry about administration and your responsibilities as an employer.
Step by step guide to finding a private carer
Once you complete the preparations, it’s time to look for a private carer. A straightforward plan can help you find a caring and skilled individual who can meet your or your loved one’s needs. You need to think about what type of person you want to hire and the different places you could look for a private carer.
At Alina Homecare, we take the stress of this away. Our Team of friendly Carers are fully trained and ready to provide award winning Care at Home. We work hard to match the right Carer to each client, taking into consideration skills and preferences.
What to include in a private carer job advert
When making your job advert, it’s important to make it easy to read and clear. It should highlight important details including the location, working hours and if previous experience or qualifications are required. It should also include whether certain documentation is needed.
You may also want to include details on the type of person you’re looking for. For instance, someone who is caring, reliable and professional. It can be helpful to include details of the role so that the potential candidates understand what is required of them before applying.
Where to find a private carer
To find the right private carer for you or your loved one, there are several places you can search for good candidates. You can begin with resources in your local area. Noticeboards at community centres, libraries and places of worship can be useful. They can help you connect with people looking for jobs in your community.
You can also search online to find a private carer. There are many online services and directories available where you can find the right carer for you or your loved one. Looking at groups on social media, such as Facebook, can also be helpful.
Introductory agencies can also help you find a private carer. These agencies connect you with carers which may make finding a carer easier, but there may be a fee involved.
When you begin to receive applications, ensure you read them carefully. Check each application and look closely at their experience and qualifications. Note any extra skills or training mentioned and pay attention to any gaps or inconsistencies in their work history.
This can be a very time consuming and difficult process. At Alina Homecare, we only employ about 1-2% of job applicants to ensure high quality standards.
When checking applications, it’s important to look for candidates who match what you’re looking for. If there are applications that don’t fit your standards or criteria, remove them. It’s best to focus on the quality of the applicant rather than the number of applications.
Next, do some basic research on the candidates you’re thinking about. Checking online profiles like LinkedIn can help you learn more about their background and experience. Use this time to find useful information and look out for any red flags.
The interview process is very important for meeting and getting to know a possible carer. It allows you to learn more about the candidate rather than what’s just on their application. The initial screening can be a phone or a video call. This helps you check if they have the basic skills required and can communicate well. You should ask open ended questions about their experience as a carer and how they handle various tasks that may come with the job.
For candidates who succeed in the first screening, the next step is to arrange a face to face interview with them. It’s important to be prepared. Have questions ready that will show their experience and personality. You can do this by asking questions about specific situations, their knowledge of how to provide support and how they would handle difficult situations. It’s also important to ask how they keep themselves trained and up to date with statutory regulations.
At Alina Homecare, we have dedicated recruiters who handle the interview process for you. They’re equipped to spot standout applicants who can help us make the ‘Alina Difference’ every day for the people who receive our care.
Before you make a final decision, it’s essential that you check all details closely. It’s crucial to verify the qualifications of potential carers as this will help keep you or your loved one safe. You can ask for copies of important certificates so you can check and confirm they’re real. This includes NVQs or diplomas in social care.
It’s also highly recommended to request and contact references. This helps you get information about the carer’s work habits from previous employers. It will also allow you to gain deeper insight into whether they’re suitable for the role. When talking to previous employers, ask clear questions about their reliability, professionalism and the standard of their work.
Always keep in mind it’s important to complete thorough background checks when hiring someone to provide care and support. This includes a DBS check. At Alina Homecare, all our Care Assistants receive an enhanced DBS check before they can begin delivering care to ensure the safety of our clients.
Once you have found a good candidate who has passed the interview and checks, consider starting a trial period. Typically, trial periods can last from a few days to a week. This will allow you to see the carer’s caregiving style, personality and approach to the role. It can also help you see how well they connect with you or your loved one and if it’s a good match.
During the trial, feel free to talk openly with everyone involved to get a sense of how they’re feeling. Encourage the carer, the person receiving care and family members to share their thoughts. This allows everyone to feel comfortable and allows for constructive feedback and resulting changes. It also provides useful insight into the quality of care being given.
Having a trial period before formally employing someone can help build trust and reassurance for everyone. It gives you the chance to make decisions based on your personal experience. This can be more helpful than just relying on interviews and references.
After a successful trial period, the final step is to finalise the job. To do this, you should first create a contract that includes all the job details. Make sure to include information on working hours, pay rates, holiday allowance and if this is paid, notice period and details about statutory sick pay.
Discuss the care plan in simple terms. Ensure the carer knows what they need to do. Share your expectations clearly and encourage a discussion on any worries or questions from both sides.
It’s also important to consider practical matters such as holidays, sickness and other unforeseen cover and backup options. Consider how to handle absences. Will you get a temporary carer from an agency, or do you have a backup carer ready? These details can help you prevent future problems.
Tips for managing your relationship with a private carer
Building a good and respectful relationship with your private carer is important. It’s essential to talk openly and clearly with each other. When you understand each other, it helps create a healthy working relationship.
Always keep communications open. Regular chats let you talk about any concerns, give feedback and make sure the care plan fits with your or your loved one’s needs, especially if these change.
Establish clear communication channels
Open and respectful communication is key for a good private carer relationship as this helps to build trust amongst all parties. Ask the carer to share their views, concerns or any thoughts they have about the wellbeing of the person receiving care. Make a safe space where you or your family members can talk about any needs or preferences that come up.
Set boundaries & expectations early on
Setting boundaries and building clear expectations from the beginning is very important for a professional working relationship. When you hire a private carer, talk openly about what you need and want. You need to explain the role and responsibilities clearly. It’s very important that everyone understands their part and what is expected of them.
Share any rules or preferences and be clear about the tasks you expect early on. Let them know how you want them to follow the care plan. It’s also important to mention breaks and personal time off.
Alternative options to private care
Hiring a private carer has many benefits. It can also be helpful to look into other options that could potentially fit your needs better. Each option has different pros and cons so it’s important to think about them carefully. The best choice for you or your loved one should match your needs, preferences and budget.
Home Care providers
Home Care providers offer similar services to private carers. They provide care in people’s homes to support independence. Usually, they provide the same type of care services, such as help with cleaning, support with personal hygiene, companionship and medication support. Some Home Care providers also offer care for certain conditions including dementia, Parkinson’s and cancer.
Although the services that are delivered by both private care and Home Care are similar, there are some differences. Here are some key differences offered by Home Care providers:
Sourcing & training carers
Sourcing & training carers
Home Care providers recruit, run background checks and manage the contracts for all carers so you don’t have to. As a result, this saves you a great deal of time and effort. They also provide training for their care staff, which is especially important if you or your loved one has a condition which requires specialised training.
Regulated by the CQC
Regulated by the CQC
Most Home Care providers, including Alina Homecare, are regulated by the CQC which ensures providers deliver safe, effective and high quality care. The CQC set standards that Home Care providers must meet in areas such as client safety, staff competence, safeguarding and the responsiveness of care services.
Regular inspections are conducted to assess compliance and providers are rated based on their performance. At Alina Homecare, we’re proud that all our services are rated either ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’. Private carers, however, aren’t regulated by the CQC therefore care isn’t always quality assured.
Continuity of care
Continuity of care
Another difference is that a replacement carer will be provided if your usual carer has time off – for planned or unplanned situations. This offers peace of mind knowing if an event or emergency arises, there will be continuity of care.
If your private carer is sick or wants to take time off from caring, it will be your responsibility to find someone else to provide care whilst they are absent. This can be stressful and time consuming, especially if there is little notice.
Creating & managing your care plan
Creating & managing your care plan
Ensuring your or your loved one’s care plan continuously meets changing needs and preferences can be overwhelming to manage. The care plan needs to be regularly assessed to make sure it remains suitable. Home Care providers will manage this for you.
They will regularly chat with the person receiving care, the carer and family members to receive feedback and update care plans accordingly. With private care, you will have to manage the care plan yourself.
Central management
Central management
Most Home Care providers are centrally managed by a local office team. This Team manages a range of aspects, from creating and updating care plans to managing carers and their schedules. They also manage any feedback or issues that arise. With private care, if there is a problem, you may need to deal with this with the private carer yourself, which can be uncomfortable.
Quality reputation
Quality reputation
Many Home Care providers receive independent reviews from clients and their family members based on the services provided. This allows you to learn about the reputation of the provider and what their customers think about their services. With private care, you’ll be required to base your judgement on one or two references rather than many reviews.
At Alina Homecare, we’re proud winners of the ‘Top 20 UK Home Care Group Award’ for four consecutive years! This award is based on independent and verified reviews from clients and their families.
Live-in Care providers
If you or your loved one need full time care, Live-in Care could be a good alternative option to private care. With Live-in Care, a carer moves into the home to provide care whenever it’s needed. They provide support with whatever is needed, from helping with daily tasks to personal hygiene support and preparing meals. Live-in Care is a particularly good option for someone with a condition as support is available at a moment’s notice.
Live-in Care providers share many of the same benefits as Home Care providers such as sourcing and employing the carer and creating detailed care plans. They also operate under the CQC’s regulations so quality is assured.
Whilst it is possible to hire a private carer who can move into the home to provide care 24/7, it may be time consuming and stressful to find the right match for you or your loved one. At Alina Homecare, we offer high quality Live-in Care to support you or your loved one at home, whenever it’s needed.
Introductory agencies
Introductory agencies can be helpful in finding a private carer for you or your loved one. They work by matching the person needing care with a carer who can meet their needs. Typically, these agencies will provide a short list of potential carers for you to choose from.
Some focus on specific needs or conditions. For instance, if you’re looking for a carer for someone who has dementia, there may be an agency that provides carers with experience in dementia. They often also screen and run background checks on carers, so you don’t have to.
Although introductory agencies can make things easier by helping you find a private carer, they don’t offer the same service a managed agency or provider would. After choosing your carer, the responsibility of managing the carer and the care they provide falls to you. This means it’s then your responsibility to handle their contracts, pay, holiday cover and other legal obligations. They also are not regulated by the CQC, unlike Home Care or Live-in Care providers.
This table summarises some of the key differences between private care and other care options:
| Private Care | Home Care | Live-in Care | Introductory agency | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Services must be regulated by the CQC | ✘ | ✓ | ✓ | ✘ |
| Runs background checks on carers | ✘ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Will provide a carer if your usual carer is sick or on holiday | ✘ | ✓ | ✓ | ✘ |
| Sources a carer for you or your loved one | ✘ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Manages the carer’s contracts for you | ✘ | ✓ | ✓ | ✘ |
| No agency fees | ✓ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Choose who you want to deliver care | ✓ | ✘ | ✘ | ✓ |
| Continuous support from a centralised office team | ✘ | ✓ | ✓ | ✘ |
| Carers receive training | ✘ | ✓ | ✓ | ✘ |
Why choose Alina Homecare?
If you or a loved one need additional support at home, we can help. Our award winning Teams operate throughout the South of England, delivering quality care to our clients. At Alina Homecare, we take pride in the high standard of care we provide. All our dedicated Carers receive excellent training through our exclusive Academy so they’re equipped with the skills and knowledge to keep you or your loved one safe and comfortable.
We offer a wide range of services to help with whatever type of care is needed at home. From personal hygiene support to companionship and help with daily household tasks, we’re here to make life easier. We also provide Overnight Care and Live-in Care if round the clock support is required.
When you contact our Teams, we ask to meet with you and your loved one to discuss your needs and preferences in a no obligation discussion. After, we will then create a detailed care plan that’s fully personalised and costed for you to consider.
All our services are fully regulated and inspected by the CQC to ensure the care we deliver is of the highest standard. We have also partnered with Birdie, an innovative care technology. With consent, you can use the app. to digitally track and monitor the support we provide.
We’re here to help and make life easier so you can focus on living life how you choose. To learn more about our care services, contact your local Alina Homecare Team.
Quick questions
How do I know if a private carer is right for me?
There are a number of different care options available and it can be difficult to choose the right one for your situation. If you or your loved one wish to remain at home but need some additional support to live safely and comfortably, private care could be a good option. However, it’s important to keep in mind the responsibilities that come along with employing a private carer.
It could be beneficial to look into different care options, such as Home Care, to gain a deeper understanding of what best suits your needs, preferences and budget.
What is the average cost of hiring a private carer in the UK?
The average cost of a private carer in the UK differs depending on several factors. These factors include where you live, how frequently care is required and the type of care needed. Typically, the hourly rate for a private carer is around £20.[2]
There may be different funding options that you or your loved one can apply for to help with the cost of care. We recommend speaking with your local council to learn more.
How can I ensure the safety and security of my loved one?
Whilst private carers are not regulated by the CQC, there are measures you can take to ensure the safety of your loved one. It’s very important to do a full check before the care begins. Complete a DBS check, ask for and contact previous employer references and check the eligibility of credentials. Taking these steps can give you some reassurance.
How can I find a private carer?
You can search online, and place adverts in local newspapers or on noticeboards around your community. There may also be local carer groups near you that you can connect with to see if any carers have availability. Personal recommendations can also be helpful, so it could be beneficial to chat with your friends and family.
What does a private carer do?
A private carer visits the home and helps people with daily tasks depending on their abilities and needs. This may include personal hygiene support such as washing and dressing or completing household tasks. A private carer can also support mobility, run errands or help manage medications.
Depending on their experience and training, they can also support people living at home with a condition such as dementia or Parkinson’s. Some private carers move into the home to provide full time care, whenever it’s needed.
Can you employ a private carer?
Yes, you can hire a private carer directly. Although there are some benefits to doing this, you need to be aware of different rights and legal obligations. This includes creating a contract and managing pay and tax contributions. With some care options, such as Home Care, your care provider will manage this for you.
How much should I pay a private carer?
The amount you should pay a private carer depends on different factors. This includes where you live, how many hours of care are needed, what tasks the carer must complete and the training or qualifications they’re required to have. It’s important that the wage is fair for both parties. To find a fair wage, check the local rates for similar jobs.
What are the benefits of hiring a private carer?
Hiring a private carer has several benefits. You can choose who will be delivering the care and can create your own care plan that suits your needs exactly. You or your loved one can also choose when you want the care to be delivered and can manage the schedule independently.
What qualifications or certifications should you look for in a private carer?
It’s not essential for private carers to have qualifications or certifications. However, it can be beneficial to have some as this shows their dedication to delivering quality care services. For example, you may want to look out for National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) in health or social care or if they’ve received certifications in first aid training.
What should I watch out for when selecting a private carer?
When you choose a private carer, it’s important to keep a lookout for any warning signs. Receiving care is personal so it’s crucial to hire someone trustworthy. Some signs to look out for are uneven work history, not wanting to complete background checks, poor references and bad communication skills.
What questions should you ask during the interview process with a potential private carer?
During the interview with a private carer, it’s important to ask them about their past work and previous experience in providing care. Ask them about how they would handle different situations to see if they’re the right fit for the role. It’s also important to ask them about their availability to ensure they can deliver care when it’s needed.
Here are some questions you may want to consider asking them:
- What training have you completed and when?
- What is your availability?
- Do you have any qualifications or certifications in health and social care?
- What made you become a carer?
- How would you respond to an emergency?
Is it better to hire a private carer through an agency or independently?
Deciding whether to hire a private carer through an agency or independently depends on your needs and preferences. Both choices have their advantages and disadvantages. Consider the costs involved, how much control you want when recruiting a carer and the extra responsibilities you will need to manage.
What are the costs involved with hiring a private carer and are there any financial assistance options available?
Some of the costs involved when employing a private carer include their pay, tax contributions and potential fees from an agency, depending on how they were recruited. If you’re concerned with the costs relating to care for yourself or a loved one, there are different funding options available. You may be entitled to receive funding support, depending on eligibility. Some of the different financial assistance options include:
- Attendance Allowance – for individuals over 65 with care needs. Read our guide to learn more about Attendance Allowance.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – for individuals with long term health conditions or disabilities that impact daily living
- Local authority funding – contact your local council to assess eligibility for care funding based on needs and financial means
References
1. This Money, “Two thirds of older adults would resist going into a care home, but opposition has ebbed since the height of the pandemic“, Reviewed 09 January 2025
2. NHS, “Paying for your own care (self-funding)“, Reviewed 09 January 2025