These answers explain how Ivy Palmer’s introductory service works, what we do, and what families and self-employed carers remain responsible for.
What is Ivy Palmer?
Ivy Palmer is an introductory service. We help families connect with self-employed carers who may be suitable for live-in support at home.
Is Ivy Palmer a care provider?
No. Ivy Palmer does not provide, supervise or manage care. We introduce families and self-employed carers so that both parties can decide whether an arrangement is suitable.
Are carers employed by Ivy Palmer?
No. Carers introduced through Ivy Palmer are self-employed. Any arrangement is agreed directly between the family/client and the carer.
Does Ivy Palmer manage the care?
No. Ivy Palmer does not manage care packages, supervise carers, direct day-to-day care or provide regulated personal care services.
Who decides whether a carer is suitable?
The family/client and the carer decide whether the arrangement is suitable. Families should ask questions, check relevant information and satisfy themselves before proceeding.
Are carers DBS checked?
Ivy Palmer expects carers to have appropriate background checks and relevant experience. Families should satisfy themselves that any checks, references and documents are suitable before agreeing an arrangement.
What about PVG checks in Scotland?
Where a carer is carrying out a regulated role in Scotland, PVG scheme membership may be required. Ivy Palmer does not employ, supply, supervise or manage carers. Families and self-employed carers should satisfy themselves that any legal, disclosure, safeguarding and contractual requirements are met before an arrangement begins.
What if the arrangement does not work out?
Because the care arrangement is agreed directly between the family/client and the self-employed carer, any changes or ending of the arrangement should be managed between those parties. Ivy Palmer may be able to discuss whether further introductions are appropriate.
Is introductory care suitable for complex needs?
It depends. Some people may need a fully managed or regulated care service, especially where needs are complex, clinical or require ongoing supervision. In those situations, a managed care provider may be more suitable.
How quickly can support start?
This depends on the person’s needs, location, carer availability and whether both parties feel the arrangement is suitable.
How is Ivy Palmer different from Independent People?
Ivy Palmer is separate from Independent People’s CQC-regulated managed care service. Ivy Palmer provides introductions only and does not provide or manage care.