Families arranging private care must understand the difference between CQC-regulated care (requires CQC registration) and unregulated support (assistance with daily living that doesn't involve personal care or nursing). Engaging a self-employed carer directly does not remove the care receiver's safeguarding rights.

• Personal care (bathing, dressing, medication prompts) requires CQC-registered provider
• Direct employer arrangement: family becomes employer — PAYE and employment law applies
• Live-in carers: National Minimum Wage applies (sleep-in arrangements — see current guidance)
• DBS check essential for anyone providing personal care
• Local authority deprivation of assets rules apply when funding care privately

Legal reference: Health and Social Care Act 2008 (CQC); Employment Rights Act 1996; Care Act 2014