What to ask before you welcome a companion
You are the one who decides. These are the questions and documents many families choose to ask for — an interview, government ID, insurance, a Vulnerable Sector Check, a résumé and references. They're suggestions, not requirements, and not a promise about anyone. Take what's useful and leave the rest.
A simple checklist
Ten things worth asking for
- 1
Interview them yourself
Have a real conversation before any first visit — by phone, video, or in person, and ideally with your parent there for part of it. Ask why they do this work, what a good visit looks like to them, and how they handle a day when your parent is low or unwell.
- 2
Ask to see government photo ID
It's a fair, ordinary request. Ask to see a government-issued photo ID and check the name matches everything else you've been given — email, invoices, references.
- 3
Ask about a Vulnerable Sector Check
A Vulnerable Sector Check is the enhanced police check used for people working with seniors. Ask to see the original document and the date on it. Many families ask for one dated within the last 24 months.
- 4
Ask about insurance
Some companions carry liability insurance and some don't. If it matters to you, ask for the certificate, the policy period, and what it actually covers. It's also worth asking your own home insurer what your policy covers when someone works in your parent's home.
- 5
Ask for a résumé and experience
Ask what kind of seniors they've spent time with, for how long, and what they're comfortable with — dementia, mobility aids, driving, pets, cooking. Ask plainly about anything they are not comfortable doing.
- 6
Ask for references — and call them
Two references from other families is reasonable. Actually phone them. Ask what surprised them, what they'd change, and whether they'd hire this person again.
- 7
Ask about driving and transportation
If outings or appointments matter, ask about a valid licence, insurance for carrying passengers, and whose vehicle would be used.
- 8
Agree the practical things in writing
Rate, hours, cancellation, what's included, who pays for outings or gas, how they'll be paid, and how you'll both handle changes. A short written note that you both agree to prevents most misunderstandings.
- 9
Start small, and trust how it feels
Begin with a short first visit. Ask your parent afterwards how it went. A good fit usually feels easy — and if it doesn't, it's completely fine to try someone else.
- 10
Protect money and documents
Keep banking, cards, and important paperwork out of the arrangement. A companion shouldn't be handling your parent's finances, and clear boundaries protect everyone.
Please read this part
Our role, plainly stated
Choose a Companion creates a space where families and companions can find each other. That is our whole promise. We interview verified members and check a Vulnerable Sector Check — we do not confirm ID, insurance, résumés, references, or qualifications, and we do not supervise or employ anyone.
This page is general information, not legal, financial, medical, or employment advice. Every decision — who to meet, who to welcome into your parent's home, and on what terms — is yours. See our terms and how we verify.
Signing up for the directory is free. Companions set their own rates and you pay them directly.