Insurance for self-employed carers: what you actually need
5 min read
Insurance is one of the first things families and councils ask about, and one of the easiest things to get wrong. Here's what self-employed carers actually need, in plain English.
Public liability insurance
This covers you if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property while working — for example, breaking something in a client's home or someone tripping over your bag. Most policies for carers start at £1 million of cover; £2–5 million is common and often expected by councils paying through direct payments.
Professional indemnity (treatment risk)
This covers claims that the care itself caused harm — a medication mistake, a moving and handling injury, or advice that went wrong. Some insurers bundle this with public liability as a 'carer's policy'; others sell it separately. Check that personal care tasks are explicitly covered, not just companionship.
Your car insurance
If you drive between clients, tell your insurer you use the car for business — ordinary social and commuting cover may not be valid. If you ever drive a client in your car, you need business use that explicitly includes carrying passengers in connection with your work. Driving a client's own car needs to be arranged on their insurance.
If you ever employ anyone
The moment you employ even one person — including a family member helping out — employer's liability insurance becomes a legal requirement, with fines for not having it. This is also the point where CQC registration questions usually arise, so take advice before you grow.
Keep the certificate handy
Families, councils and platforms will ask to see your certificate, and it expires every year. Keep a copy where you can show it instantly, and set a reminder before the renewal date — an expired certificate can cost you work. Carer Hub stores your documents and warns you 30 days before anything runs out.
This guide is general information for the UK, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change, so always check the official source for your situation. Carer Hub members can book a free 30-minute session with an independent accredited care consultant.
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