Finding independent carers
How to find verified independent carers for a Personal Health Budget — what to look for, what verification really means, and where HBS fits in.
Finding the right independent carer is one of the most important — and often most stressful — parts of using a PHB. The good news is that there are some quietly reliable signals families can look for, long before a first meeting.
What "independent carer" actually means
An independent carer is someone who works directly with families, rather than being deployed by an agency rota. They are usually self-employed or directly engaged through a PHB. Families choose them, build a relationship with them, and direct the day-to-day work.
What to look for
Enhanced DBS, right to work, references — and a willingness to share them.
Training that matches the person's needs (autism, epilepsy, PEG, moving and handling, etc.).
Clear, prompt, unhurried replies — early on this is a strong signal.
Honest about what they have and haven't done before.
Looking for ongoing, stable work — not just filling a gap.
Comfortable with written agreements, rotas, and family boundaries.
What verification really means
Verification is more than ticking a box on a DBS form. A meaningful verification process looks at identity, right to work, relevant training, references, and ongoing competency — and revisits these over time, not just once.
- Identity and right to work confirmed
- Enhanced DBS in date and on the update service where possible
- References from previous families or employers
- Training relevant to the role being introduced
- Onboarding and competency development specific to the person being supported
Quiet signals worth paying attention to
- How quickly and calmly someone replies to early messages
- Whether they ask thoughtful questions about the person, not just the rota
- Whether they're open about what they don't yet know
- Whether they treat verification as reassuring, rather than inconvenient
Common questions
HBS is an onboarding and verification platform. We help PHB families connect with verified independent carers, and support the training and competency development that makes introductions calmer. Carers operate independently, and families direct ongoing care arrangements directly.