What are the main differences between the Standard Introductory Service and The Platinum Service?
Each Agency applies to CQC (Care Quality Commission) to gain registration. The different level of service provided is essentially determined by the individual Agency however the level of service provided must comply with the different standards and regulations applied to each service, by CQC the regulatory body.
Introductory Service
Introductory Agencies DO NOT provide a care service – they INTRODUCE a carer to the client and effectively operate as an employment agency. The client is responsible for ensuring the appropriate care is provided – not the Agency. Our Competitors such as Country Cousins, Consultus Care and Christies Care all operate as Introductory Agencies.
Platinum Service
The Good Companions Care at Home Agency is the ONLY National operator that also offers clients a full provider service where WE DO PROVIDE A CARE SERVICE. We are responsible for planning, providing, monitoring and supervising care. This service operates to far stricter regulatory standards and requirements and is monitored and inspected by CQC.
This is a new service and has not been inspected by CQC and therefore there is no inspection report available.
| Common Questions | Standard Introductory Service | Platinum Service |
|---|---|---|
| What are the main differences between the levels of service? | The Good Companions DOES NOT provide a care service – we select and introduce suitable self employed carers who are competent to provide the particular service | The Good Companions DOES provide a Care Service and this is regularly monitored and inspected by CQC |
| Who employs the Carer? | The customer is the employer | The Good Companions employs the Carer |
| Who is responsible for paying the carers Tax and National Insurance contributions? | The Carer | The Good Companions |
| Who is responsible for the standards of care provided? | The Customer and the Carer | The Good Companions |
| Who is responsible for ensuring suitable insurance is in place? | The Customer and the Carer | The Good Companions |
| Who pays the carer’s salary? | The Customer | The Good Companions |
| Who pays the carers travel expenses? | The Customer | The Good Companions |
| Who pays the carers NI contributions, Tax and Holiday entitlements? | The carer - they are all self employed | The Good Companions |
| Does the Good Companions provide the appropriate training – required by CQC? | This is not a CQC requirement for Introductory Services although carers may have received training from the Good Companions. Carers are selected who have received suitable training and who are able to show appropriate evidence that they are competent to perform the role | The Good Companions always provides the training and monitors and supervises the work of the carer. This is a CQC requirement for this level of service |
| Is a care plan required and who is responsible for completing and monitoring the care plan? | No – a care plan is not required The client monitors the care provided | Yes - a Care Plan is Required. The Good Companions is responsible and this is regulated and checked by CQC |
| Who is responsible for ensuring the carer works to acceptable and appropriate standards? | The Customer | The Good Companions |
| How often is the Agency required to monitor the standard of care provided? | The Agency is not legally required to monitor the care at all. We are required to complete annual and updated assessments | As required on an ongoing basis |
| Who is responsible for ensuring appropriate financial and clinical records are maintained? | The Customer | The Good Companions. These are required by CQC |
| Who is responsible for ensuring the customer receives the appropriate medication at the correct times? | The Customer | The Good Companions |