We aim to provide people looking for care with a shortlist of potential carers so you can choose the right one for you. Sometimes we only have one carer available who may be able to help. Either way, the next step is deciding whether they’re right for you.
We’d recommend both a phone call and a face-to-face meeting, but ultimately it’s your choice how you do this – some people are happy to proceed after just a phone call, others prefer to meet in person first.
We select outstanding carers, you choose the right one for you
All Sparrow carers have been vetted with enhanced DBS checks, references, and insurance verified. But, beyond this we’ve met every carer face to face to really get to know them so that we can decide whether we would happily trust them to care for our mum and dad. We say no to most people we meet but every carer we work with has passed this hurdle. But our judgement is not the same as yours and the biggest benefit of self-employed care is that you get to choose your carer personally. Ultimately it’s up to you to decide which carer or carers are right for you.
1. An initial phone call
Your first contact with a potential carer is usually a phone call. You might speak to one carer or several before deciding.
Use the phone call to:
- Get a sense of them – their personality, communication style, whether you feel comfortable talking with them
- Discuss your care needs – they’ll have a summary already, but go over it directly
- Ask about their approach and experience – particularly with situations similar to yours
- Cover practical details – availability, rates, timing
- Decide whether to meet in person – we always recommend a face to face meeting where possible
We’d suggest contacting your carer as soon as you can, ideally within a day or two of receiving your shortlist.
2. Meeting face to face
Meeting in person helps you get a real sense of whether this person is right for you.
Who should be there? The person needing care (if possible), plus any family members or others who are significantly involved.
What to cover:
- Introductions – take time to get get to know each other
- Show them around – the spaces, equipment, and any specific procedures
- Discuss care in detail – exactly what you need, when, and how you prefer things done
- Communication – how you’ll stay in touch day-to-day, what happens in emergencies
- Costs – confirm their rate, any mileage (typically 55p/mile) or travel time costs
- Care plan and agreement – ask whether they use written documents to record your care and set out the terms, and to see a copy
- Start date and cover – when care could start, what happens if they’re sick or on holiday
- Documentation – you can ask to see DBS certificates, insurance certificates, references, or training certificates
- Contact details – exchange phone numbers and emergency contacts
Meetings can vary in length depending on circumstances but 30 minutes isn’t uncommon.
3. Making your decision
After meeting, think about how you feel. The practical details matter, but so does your gut feeling. Do you feel comfortable with this person? Can you imagine them in your home regularly?
It’s completely okay to say no. If something doesn’t feel right, trust that. There’s no obligation and no hard feelings.
Letting people know:
Tell the carer directly if you’re comfortable, or contact Sparrow and we’ll handle it for you.
If you decide to go ahead, the carer will finalize arrangements with you – confirming dates, providing any paperwork, and ensuring you’re both clear on next steps.
Care typically starts within a week of choosing your carer, though it can be quicker or longer depending on circumstances.
Common questions
Should I meet more than one carer?
It’s up to you. Some people know immediately after meeting one carer. Others prefer to meet two or three. Both approaches are fine.
What if it doesn’t feel right after meeting them?
Trust your instincts. Let us know (or tell the carer directly) and we can introduce you to others.
How do I choose between two carers I both liked?
Go with your gut – who did you feel most comfortable with? Also consider practical factors like availability, cost, and relevant experience. Sometimes it’s possible to work with more than one carer, which can provide more resilience if someone’s ill or on holiday.
How quickly can care start?
Usually within a week of your decision, sometimes within a few days. You and your carer will agree a start date together.
What if I need help deciding?
Call Anna or Tom on 01434 444 888. We know all our carers well and can help you think it through.
What happens after I’ve chosen my carer?
Your carer finalizes the practical details with you, then care begins. We stay in the background and remain available if you need support.