Hi Arfan,
I would suggest looking at Business Link for standard templates (staff, terms and conditions, website policies, guidelines, invoices, etc). I use their materials regularly, tweaking them as I need to and they serve me really well.
Accounting software: look at TAS Basics for free software (there was a recent offer that was on the internet, hopefully should still be there), I know various businesses that use them and they serve their purpose.
I know you're also looking for specific homecare products which I'm afraid on that front I won't be able to advise but hope the above helps you in some way.
Good luck,
Drew
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Drew Rogers
Renew Fitness Retreat
www.renewfitnessretreat.co.uk

Hi Arfan,

me and you both are starting a domicillary/ homecare agency!! - I purchased this pack of information yesterday for it http://tinyurl.com/38tw92t - it cost me £60..but given that we are both novices and need to keep our costs low! we can split the costs 50/50 of it and i can send you the full package i purchased.

pat.

Hi

I am starting up a care agency and just wants to know if anyone knows where i can get a good software. It would also be good to hear from the others who have posted on this site.

Hi

It would be nice to hear from anyone who have just started a CARE AGENCY and who is willinging to share ideas

Hi

Would be glad to help just give me a shout ive started up now so may be of some help.
Software is all dependent on what you want to use it for .

I am looking for software to keep track of things like shifts, clients info. How are you finding the journey one year in. Is it difficult to precure jobs. Any pitfalls that I need to be aware of or tips that would be useful.

hi everyone.

I worked as an inspector for CQC for 8 years registering and inspecting care services. I have also worked with some of the big care providers such as Carewatch
Affinity Trust and St Annes in the north.

There are a number of software packages on the market for call scheduling, rotas, invoicing and call monitoring. You would need to look at what functionality you require

I would strongly advise new providers to be very wary of off the shelf packages for policies as many of them are not compliant with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 essential standards. You have to ensure that the policies and procedures reflect your business and your name is not just copied and pasted in.

As far as registration goes you do need to know the standards, it is still possible to get hold of a bound copy for free.

In terms if developing your market there is the indepdent or private market which does mean using social and otehr media , managing relationships with brokerage teams, carers groups etc. Or there is the traditional market of referrals from social services or health. These require you more often than not to be on a preferred provider list which is achieved through tendering.
Once up and running agencies need to meet contractual obligations and monitoring requirements of both commissioners and CQC.

My company advises on new registrations, developing businesses, writing tenders and providing guidance on compliance.
Happy to hear from anyone who needs help.
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Resident CQC expert, helping new and existing care businesses