Surrey creates care version of Buy With Confidence scheme

Older and disabled people can now avoid the cowboys and find care firms they can trust to provide support at home thanks to a Surrey County Council scheme.

The council’s adult social care service and trading standards team have launched a Support with Confidence initiative with the Surrey Independent Living Council.

Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Michael Gosling. Click image to download

It is being run along similar lines to the consumer champion’s Buy With Confidence scheme that lists approved traders.

Surrey’s new initiative helps people select care firms that have been vetted to ensure work is done to a good standard in a reliable way.

Already more than 50 businesses have applied to join the scheme to carry out tasks such as cooking, gardening and day care*.

Michael Gosling, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: “Older people in our communities, particularly those who may be a little isolated, can find it daunting seeking trustworthy support.

“While nearly every care business does a very good job this scheme helps to give people the confidence that they are employing honest and reliable help.

“In addition to reassuring people, it also helps local firms by giving increased exposure to their business.”

For more information visit www.surreyinformationpoint.org.uk.

* Services regulated by the Care Quality Commission are not included.