How will we regulate Care Consultants?
We have created a framework that ensures Care Consultants have the required legal and ethical skills to perform their roles.
The Framework of accreditation is split into four parts.
Application
During the application stage, we assess personal information, relevant experience, qualifications, testimonials, insurance details, and any previous or current CQC registrations.
Skills Assessment
Once the application and supporting documents are received, the consultant’s relevant expertise and supporting evidence, such as certifications or testimonials, are reviewed. The consultant is then invited to a panel interview, where they will be asked questions based on their selected specialisms to verify their skills and experience.
Documentation
Consultants registered with C-CAF must hold a valid DBS. They can either provide their DBS Update Service details or complete a DBS through our partner, Certn. Original identity documents must be supplied to support the DBS application and verify their right to work in the UK at that time. Professional indemnity insurance must also be provided (this may not be applicable for Enterprise consultants). Consultants who do not provide the required documentation will not be added to the accreditation.
Monitoring
The C-CAF online platform will offer consultants their own profiles within a directory. These profiles will allow and encourage reviews from care providers who have commissioned services. C-CAF will also spot-check reviews to ensure accuracy and reliability. In addition, consultants will be asked to attend a yearly assessment to review their current specialisms and received reviews, as well as to discuss any additional specialisms they may wish to add.
Care England
OFFICIAL PARTNER
Care England, representing the adult social care sector Care England, a registered charity, is the leading representative body for small, medium and large providers in England.
Care England strives to work collaboratively with its members, stakeholders and Government to implement the foundations of a sustainable future for adult social care that will be to the benefit of all citizens and the economy.
Why do we do it?
With the Care Quality Commission (CQC) under ever-growing scrutiny, care providers are increasingly commissioning the services of care consultants to support them. The outcomes of these services are extremely variable due to the lack of regulation around consultants.
An estimated 150,000.00 care consultants are operating within UK Social Care; however, this number is likely to be much higher; currently, there is no way of ascertaining the actual number.
Unlike in the NHS, where around 250,000 consultants provide independent services, we only know this because the NHS has a tender framework regulating consultant usage.
Due diligence is often not considered when hiring a consultant. For example, how can care providers be assured that the consultant has the relevant insurance and DBS check? How can a provider be assured that the consultant has the relevant skills, qualifications, and experience to carry out the service being asked of them?
What are the benefits for a consultant?
Consultants are visible in the C-CAF directory, connecting them with care providers actively seeking to commission work.
Membership includes access to professional development webinars and training sessions, supporting ongoing learning and skill enhancement.
Consultants benefit from the complaints management function, providing an extra layer of professional protection.
Members can access discounted services from commercial partners, helping to reduce costs while enhancing their practice.
Being part of a network of like-minded professionals encourages collaboration, support, and shared learning.