9: Managing risks

A: I think I’m going to start using direct payments but I’m not sure about how to make sure the services are buy are safe.

B: OK well don’t worry, I can give you some advice on how to make sure both you and the people who support you are safe. It is important to think about health and safety. This is about making sure that neither you or others are taking an unsafe number of risks and that the working environment is safe. 

A: OK so that’s general health and safety. But how about making sure that the people who support me are safe to use?

B: Well, this varies depending on how you get the support you need. If you employ people yourself or you use freelance workers, you may want to do a higher number of checks than if you use an agency or organisation, as they should have carried out their own checks (but you should still ask them about that). Checks could include a check on police records.

A: So once I’ve had check on police records done, I can be confident that all’s OK?

B: Well, that depends on what the check shows up. You may also like to follow up the references that prospective staff have given you. You may also ask for a 5 year history, this could cover their employment or educational background and account for any gaps when they weren’t working. 

A: OK. I was thinking about getting a second opinion from a friend of mine. What do you think?

B: Yes, it may also be good to get a second opinion from someone that you trust. You might also want to check out the certificates for the qualifications that people say they have.

A: How about anything I can do on a regular basis to make sure that things run smoothly?

B: It’s also to have systems in place to minimise risks. These might be having regular staff supervision. Supervision is about having some ‘safe’ time for both you and staff to discuss what has been going well and what could go better. You should also think about a plan for emergency cover when staff are absent, especially at short notice.

A: OK, but I guess sometimes things do go wrong however much you try to reduce risk.

B: Yes you’re right. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re covered for accidents. For example, if you’re employing people, you should also make sure that you have appropriate employers’ liability insurance.

A: I think I’m OK with this, but some people might not want to have to deal with risk, what can they do?

B: You’re right some people may be a bit more nervous and it’s their choice to decide what level of risk they would like to manage. They could use an agency or organisation or ask their social services to provide them with a service.