All Freshford Carers undertake a stringent recruitment process. They are subject to a Criminal Record check and a POVA (Protection of Vulnerable Adults) check.

Once they have been employed by Freshford they undertake the Common Induction Standards Training programme which equips them for working in client’s homes. This induction programme ensures the carer knows how to deliver personal care, understands communication and confidentiality, knows how to assist clients with medication, understands the principals of personal hygiene, infection control and food hygiene and how to look after themselves and others by being trained in lifting and handling and Health and Safety. Before they begin work they shadow an experienced carer.

From then on all carers have regular formal support from managers who have a wealth of experience. They have informal support at any time - including out of hours, when they can contact a manager by phone. They are also appraised annually.

They will then embark on a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in social care. These courses are paid for by the company and the percentage of carers with NVQs at Freshford exceed the targets laid down by the National Care Standards

In the meantime carers will attend regular training sessions on all aspects of their work. This includes “re-visiting” sessions on skills learned during induction and courses on dementia, various other mental health issues (e.g. depression), catheter and stoma care, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes and many other common problems and conditions they may encounter.

We uphold the principal that clients should only invite into their homes carers with whom they are compatible. We understand that not all people get along. We therefore welcome client’s views on their carers and are happy to change them if necessary.