Code of Conduct for Self-Employed Home Supporters Helpful HomeSupport

Purpose

This Code of Conduct outlines the standards expected of all self-employed HomeSupporters (“Supporters”) engaged by Helpful HomeSupport. It is designed to ensure safe, respectful, and high-quality support for all Clients. Compliance with this Code is a condition of the Agency introducing you to a potential client.

Professional Standards

Supporters are expected to act with honesty, integrity, and professionalism at all times. Support must be delivered in line with agreed tasks. Professional boundaries must always be maintained.

Respect, Dignity, and Equality

All Clients must be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. Supporters should promote independence, choice, and control, while respecting each individual’s beliefs, preferences, and background. Discrimination of any kind is not acceptable.

Safeguarding

The safety and wellbeing of Clients must always be the priority. Any concerns about abuse, neglect, or risk must be reported immediately to the appropriate contact this maybe a family member, the Client or Social Services. Advice can be sought from the Agency. Supporters must never ignore, delay, or conceal safeguarding concerns.

Confidentiality

All Client information must be treated as strictly confidential. Information should only be shared, when necessary, appropriate, and lawful. Discussions about Clients must not take place with unauthorised individuals.

Communication and Reporting

Supporters must communicate clearly, respectfully, and honestly with Clients and relevant contacts. Any concerns, incidents, or changes in a Client’s situation must be reported promptly.

Boundaries, Gifts, and Financial Conduct

Clear professional boundaries must be maintained at all times. Supporters must not accept gifts of significant value.

Under no circumstances should Supporters request, offer, give, or receive loans, money, or any form of financial assistance from clients.

Supporters must not become involved in managing or accessing a client’s finances unless formally authorised and agreed. Any situation that could be perceived as financial abuse or a conflict of interest must be avoided.

Supporters must not use a Client’s payment card (except an approved “Carer Card payment for agreed purchases/shopping).

Reliability and Attendance

Supporters are expected to attend all agreed visits on time. If you are unable to attend or are delayed, you must inform the appropriate contact as soon as possible. Visits must not be missed without proper notification to the Client.

Health, Safety, and Hygiene

Supporters must follow all health and safety guidance and maintain good hygiene practices. You must not attend work if unwell in a way that could put Clients at risk. Any hazards or incidents must be reported promptly, to the Client or Client’s emergency contact.

Conduct in the Client’s Home

The Client’s home, privacy, and belongings must always be respected. Supporters must not use the Client’s property for personal use without permission and must not bring unauthorised individuals into the home.

Substance Use

Supporters must not attend work under the influence of alcohol or drugs and must not consume alcohol or non-prescribed substances while on duty.

Breach of Code

Failure to follow this Code of Conduct may result in termination of engagement by the Client and, where appropriate, referral to relevant authorities.