18 agencies approved

Published on 21/09/2012 13:07

EIGHTEEN care agencies are approved by the council to look after residents across the city.

First they must register with the Care Inspectorate – which regulates the industry – which will examine the credentials of the service. The watchdog is charged with ensuring every applicant comes equipped with health and safety protocols and that vital procedures – such as ensuring all staff have the appropriate police checks – are being followed.

Care providers will be expected to meet National Care Standards, which include offering dignity, privacy and choice.

Edinburgh City Council advertises the services it wishes to outsource via a tendering process. Care providers can bid to provide the services, and after a price has been accepted the council will then select its preferred bidder.

Some care at home can be provided by council employees, but often it is offered by one of the approved agencies.

Those needing help agree a “personal care plan” with the local authority intended to meet their requirements.