How we vet caregivers: the long version
A walk-through of every step in our caregiver verification process — what we check, how we check it, and what we don’t.
Our short answer is on the Trust & Safety page. This is the long version, for anyone who wants to see exactly what happens.
Step 1: Identity
Before a caregiver can do anything else, they upload a photo of a government-issued ID and complete a real-time selfie capture. We check the document for tampering and run face-match between the ID and the selfie. We also collect a phone number and verify it via SMS.
Step 2: Background check
UK caregivers complete an Enhanced DBS through our partner uCheck. Depending on the type of work declared, the check includes the Children’s and/or Adults’ Barred List. Results typically come back in 24–72 hours.
US caregivers complete a Checkr screening including SSN trace, national criminal database, county records (typically 7+ years), and the National Sex Offender Registry. Results typically come back in 1–5 business days.
We don’t accept self-uploaded background checks. Every check is run through our verified vendor pipeline.
Step 3: References
Caregivers must provide at least one verifiable reference. We contact references directly — a quick call or email — to confirm the relationship.
Step 4: Self-declared experience and certifications
Caregivers tell us what they’re experienced with — newborn, special-needs, dementia, manual handling, paediatric first aid, etc. They upload certificates where applicable. Certificates are reviewed by our team for legitimacy and currency.
Step 5: Re-verification
Every 12 months, caregivers re-verify identity and we re-run their background check. Newer certificates need to be uploaded as old ones expire.
What we don’t do
- We do not perform clinical competence assessments. For clinical care needs (PEG feeds, controlled drugs, complex medical needs), specialist agencies are typically a better fit.
- We do not run polygraphs, social-media surveillance, or credit checks. Those tools either don’t work or aren’t legal where we operate.
- We do not guarantee perfection. Even the most rigorous checks miss things sometimes. That’s why we layer on live shift tracking, escrow payments, and a 24/7 trust & safety team.
If something ever feels wrong, contact our team immediately. We respond to every safety concern within hours.