Employing a Carer is not the same as engaging a carer.

AtHome does not use carers who status is declared as employed; all carers on our books are self-employed

Instead of using an introductory agency like AtHome, which introduces self-employed carers, it is possible to employ your own carer directly.

Before you do this, be sure that you are fully aware of your responsibilities as an employer.

If you employ a carer directly rather than using a self-employed carer through an introduction agency like AtHome, you have the legal responsibility of an employer.

This includes arranging pay, tax, and national insurance as well as organising cover for any illness, as well as paying for their holiday days and possible pensions, among other responsibilities.

One reason families choose an introduction agency such as AtHome is access to pre-checked, self-employed carers who are responsible for their own tax, National Insurance and personal pension arrangements.

Where the carer is genuinely self-employed for the engagement, the family does not have employer responsibilities for PAYE, employer National Insurance, statutory holiday pay or workplace pension contributions. This depends on the actual working arrangements and applicable legal status.

For further information, Carers UK has advice on employing a private carer if that is something you are considering.