Correct insurance is important if you work as a caregiver—self-employed, employed by an agency, or providing care services in your neighborhood. Among the most essential policies you could require is public liability insurance.
There are, however, many myths about it that often leave caregivers confused or undercovered. Before choosing any insurance plan, compare cheap carers insurance quotes.
This article discusses the top five myths about public liability insurance for carers and clarifies any confusion.
Myth 1: Carers Working in Clients’ Homes Do Not Need Public Liability Insurance
Many carers feel automatically shielded when working in another person’s house. This is wrong. Legal accountability could result from unintentional damage you cause to a third party—such as a visitor at home—or property damage while providing care.
For instance, the customer may seek compensation if you unintentionally knock over a priceless ornament or spill the tea on a costly rug. Public liability insurance pays for these fees and legal expenditures.
Thus, this insurance still safeguards you even if you lack business property and work in others’ houses.
Myth 2: For Self-Employed Carers, Public Liability Insurance Is Too Expensive
This is a frequent concern, particularly for caregivers just beginning on their own. But in reality, public liability insurance is usually cheap, and the cost varies depending on your kind of work, degree of risk, and level of coverage you pick.
Generally, basic public liability insurance for carers in the UK can begin from as little as £5 to £10 per month. Consider that to the thousands you would have to spend out of pocket if someone sued you, and it soon becomes obvious that it is worthwhile.
Myth 3: Public Liability Insurance Covers Carers for Every Circumstance
Public liability insurance offers great protection, but it does not cover everything. Some caregivers believe one policy would cover all risks; that is not the case.
Public liability insurance, for instance, will not cover:
- Injury to yourself (you will need personal accident insurance)
- Your property damage
- Charges of abuse or neglect (you may require professional indemnity or legal expense protection)
- Driving accidents while carrying customers ( requires proper vehicle insurance)
It’s critical to know what your insurance covers and what it doesn’t. Asking your insurer for clarification or reading the fine print is always worthwhile. This can help you in understanding that under what circumstances you are fully covered and what you can do to avoid being undercover.
You can always visit the contact us page of their websites if you have any query and get assistance.
Myth 4: Public Liability Insurance Is Only Required If You Have Employees
Some people view insurance as only for companies with employees. You can still be legally liable for accidents even if you are a part-time carer or single proprietor.
From the instant you engage a customer, their family, or even a guest, there is a risk something could go wrong. You might have a claim if someone trips over your bag or you unintentionally damage a car door while assisting others. Being at risk does not depend on having staff, nor does needing insurance depend on staff.
Myth 5: The Agency I Deal With Insures Me, So I Don’t Require My Insurance
Should you conduct some shifts for care providers or work via an agency, you might think you are covered under their policy. That could not always hold.
Many UK insurance agencies provide restricted coverage; some may not cover you while working freelance or outside set hours. Before they give you work, some may even ask you to possess your public liability insurance.
It’s wise to have your policy if you do private or freelance caring on the side—even once a week. This way, you will be covered regardless of your employer.
Final Thoughts:
Public liability insurance is a sensible, often vital cover for carers and large companies. It guarantees that should the unexpected occur while you are working—whether you are in a home, on the street, or in a care facility—you will not have to carry the legal or financial load alone.
Myths shouldn’t stop you from getting the protection you require. A little monthly payment today might spare you much trouble later.
