Chelmark Care
Compliance Requirements

All care professionals must complete comprehensive safeguarding training covering the protection of vulnerable adults and children. This includes understanding abuse types, reporting procedures, and duty of care obligations.

Strict adherence to GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. All professionals sign confidentiality agreements and receive training on handling sensitive personal information securely.

Compliance with Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Care Quality Commission standards. All professionals receive induction training covering manual handling, infection control, and emergency procedures.

Full compliance with Equality Act 2010. All professionals receive training on treating individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of protected characteristics.

How long does the compliance process take?

The compliance process typically takes 2-4 weeks from initial application to final approval. This includes DBS checks (5-10 working days), reference verification (3-5 days), and health screening (2-3 days). Some checks may run in parallel to expedite the process. We'll keep you updated throughout.

What if I have a gap in my employment history?

Employment gaps are common and not automatically disqualifying. We'll ask you to provide an explanation for any gaps exceeding 3 months. Reasons such as illness, education, travel, or caring responsibilities are understood. We assess each situation individually and transparently.

Can I start work while my DBS check is pending?

No, DBS clearance must be completed and verified before you can begin any care role. This is a regulatory requirement to protect vulnerable individuals. However, we can often arrange temporary assignments in other sectors while your DBS is being processed.

What qualifications do I need to get started?

At minimum, you'll need a Care Certificate or equivalent care qualification. If you don't have one, we can discuss training opportunities. First Aid at Work certification is also required. We work with candidates to identify any training gaps and can often provide guidance on obtaining necessary qualifications.

How often do I need to renew my DBS check?

DBS Enhanced Checks are valid for 3 years. We'll remind you when renewal is due. Some clients may require more frequent checks (annually or bi-annually) depending on their specific requirements. We'll inform you of any additional requirements when placing you with a client.

What if I have a previous conviction?

Having a conviction doesn't automatically exclude you from care work. We assess each case individually based on the nature, severity, and time elapsed since the offense. Some convictions may be filtered under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. We encourage you to disclose any convictions upfront so we can properly advise you.