How to choose a companionship service in Scotland: a short checklist

Choosing who comes into a parent's home is a significant decision, and it can feel surprisingly hard to compare providers. Websites tend to sound similar, prices are often hidden, and the things that actually matter, continuity, matching, communication, are hard to see until you are already a few weeks in.

Here is the checklist we wish more families had before they started ringing round. Take it with you to consultations and ask the same questions of every provider. The answers, and the way they are answered, tell you almost everything.

1. Are all staff PVG-checked?

In Scotland the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme is the equivalent of an enhanced background check. Every person who enters the home should be on the PVG scheme for regulated work with adults. Ask to see the certificate if you want to.

2. Are they insured?

Public liability and employer's liability insurance should both be in place. A reputable provider will share their certificate without hesitation.

3. Who employs the companion?

If the companion is self-employed and you are paying through an introductory agency, the legal responsibility for things like tax, holiday cover and complaints often sits with you, not the agency. Ask directly.

4. How do they match companions to clients?

Good matching is about personality, shared interests and pace, not just availability. Ask how matching is done, and how often it works first time.

5. Will the same person come every week?

Continuity is the single biggest predictor of how well companionship works. One or two regular companions is ideal; a rotating team of six is rarely useful for the person being supported.

6. What happens when the regular companion is on holiday?

Holidays and sickness are inevitable. Ask how cover is arranged, and whether the relief companion is introduced in advance rather than turning up cold.

7. What is the minimum visit length?

Anything under an hour is rarely worth it for the older person, there is not enough time to settle in, have a proper conversation and do anything practical. Two hours is the sweet spot.

8. How do they communicate with families?

Ask whether you will receive an update after each visit, who you contact with a question, and how quickly you can expect a response. Vague answers here are a flag.

9. What is the all-in price?

Get the hourly rate, the minimum visit length, mileage or travel fees, evening/weekend uplifts and the cancellation policy in writing. There should be no surprises on the first invoice.

10. Can they handle changing needs?

Today is companionship; in two years it might be companionship plus a hand with shopping, prompts for medication, or accompanying to appointments. Ask how the plan flexes as needs change.

11. Will the older person have a choice?

The most important question of all. Look for providers who insist on a no-obligation home consultation, with the proposed companion present, before any commitment.

A note on Scotland specifically

Companionship in Scotland sits alongside a strong network of community resources, ALISS, Befriending Networks, local third-sector groups, and the social work team in your council area. A good provider will know these and will signpost you to them if they are a better fit than paid support.

If you would like a straightforward, no-pressure conversation about whether companionship is the right step for your family, call us on 01236 359027 or send a note through the booking page. We are happy to compare ourselves to other local options if that is helpful.